For overpackers or those who want to get away and indulge in some retail therapy, it pays to know which airlines offer the best luggage allowance, without charging for excess luggage.
Most airlines have a standard checked baggage allowance of 23kg for economy class passengers, but there are a few exceptions, either due to regional policies, generous baggage policies, or specific routes.
Some airlines offer over 23kg for standard economy passengers, so you finally don’t have to worry when placing your bags on the scales at check-in.
Here's a guide to some of the best:
Emirates
Passengers flying with Emirates can expect a 30kg luggage allowance (Economy Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus fares). With popular destinations from UK airports including Dubai, Bangkok and Sydney, you can take that long-haul journey with the confidence you’ve got more than enough room for all your essentials and more.
Etihad Airways
If you enjoy a spot of shopping or bringing back souvenirs for friends and family, Etihad Airways' 30kg luggage allowance for Economy Value and Economy Flex (not Economy Deal) is perfect. From Abu Dhabi to Bangkok, holidaymakers can pack to their heart’s content with an extra 7kg.
Qatar Airways
If you’re planning a trip to Doha, Bali or Bangkok, Qatar Airways offers a 30kg checked baggage allowance for passengers flying Economy Classic and above. So, if you’re an overpacker likely to exceed the typical 23kg limit, this generous allowance may save you from expensive overweight or additional bag charges.
Singapore Airlines
You can expect 30kg for Economy Standard and Economy Flexi flights with Singapore Airlines from the UK to Asia and Australia. This is ideal for those who require special-purpose packing, for active or family holidays, as you have more space for any sports equipment or gear.
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines offers 30kg in Economy for many long-haul destinations using the weight concept, especially in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. This also means that you can pack multiple lighter bags instead of one large one, making handling easier, if you wish.
The team at Travel Republic share their tips: “It’s important to always double check the luggage allowance for your route, as there can be exceptions, for example, most flights to the United States are still only 23kg. We’d recommend aiming to have your luggage slightly lower than the maximum allowance, this gives extra peace of mind and means you have space for souvenirs or any shopping you may want to do on your trip.”
Recommended reading:
- Easy phone mistakes on holiday could cost you hundreds
- Martin Lewis says 'don't pay to pay' on holiday
- Martin Lewis shares key advice for mobile phone users
Why do airlines have different luggage allowances?
The weight concept and piece concept are two different systems airlines use to determine your checked baggage allowance, and they vary by route and airline:
Weight Concept
You are allowed to check in a total weight, regardless of the number of bags. For example, if you had a 30kg allowance, you could bring one bag of 30kg or two bags of 15kg. This is commonly used for flights to/from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Airlines that use the weight concept are Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad and Turkish Airlines.
Piece Concept
You are allowed a specific number of bags, each with a maximum weight (typically 23 kg in economy). For example, two pieces at 23 kg = two bags, each can weigh up to 23kg (but not combined into one heavier bag). This is mostly used for flights to/from North America and sometimes South America.
Share