Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure about baggage rules. If you’re flying with Philippine Airlines (PAL), knowing the airline’s baggage policies can help you avoid extra fees, delays, and last-minute surprises at the airport. Whether you’re flying within the Philippines or heading to an international destination, understanding baggage allowances, weight limits, and additional charges is crucial.
This guide will walk you through baggage rules Philippine Airlines, including carry-on, checked baggage, excess baggage fees, and important restrictions to help you pack smartly and travel hassle-free.
Understanding Philippine Airlines’ Baggage System
Philippine Airlines follows two different baggage systems depending on the destination:
- Weight-Based System – Applied on flights within Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. The total checked baggage weight is considered instead of the number of pieces.
- Piece-Based System – Used for flights to North America and Europe, where passengers are allowed a specific number of bags with weight limits per bag.
Being aware of which system applies to your flight can help you plan your luggage efficiently.
Carry-On Baggage Policy
All passengers on Philippine Airlines are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard.
Carry-On Allowance:
- Maximum weight: 7 kg (15 lbs).
- Maximum dimensions: 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm (22 in x 14 in x 9 in).
Personal Item Options:
- A handbag, purse, or laptop bag.
- A small backpack or camera bag.
- Duty-free items purchased at the airport.
Carry-On Restrictions:
- Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a transparent, resealable bag.
- Sharp objects, firearms, and dangerous goods are strictly prohibited.
- Food and perishable items must comply with customs and quarantine regulations at the destination.
Checked Baggage Allowance
Your checked baggage allowance depends on your destination and ticket class.
Domestic Flights (Within the Philippines)
- Economy Supersaver & Economy Saver – No free baggage allowance (purchased separately).
- Economy Value & Economy Flex – 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Premium Economy – 20 kg (44 lbs).
- Business Class – 30 kg (66 lbs).
International Flights (Weight-Based System)
For flights to Asia, the Middle East, and Australia, the allowance is based on total weight:
- Economy Class – 20–35 kg (44–77 lbs), depending on the ticket type.
- Premium Economy – 25–35 kg (55–77 lbs).
- Business Class – 30–40 kg (66–88 lbs).
International Flights (Piece-Based System)
For flights to North America and Europe, the piece system applies:
- Economy Class – 2 pieces, 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag.
- Premium Economy – 2 pieces, 25 kg (55 lbs) per bag.
- Business Class – 2 pieces, 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag.
Infants without a seat are allowed one checked bag (10 kg/22 lbs) plus a collapsible stroller or car seat.
Excess Baggage Fees
If your baggage exceeds the standard allowance, additional fees will apply.
Domestic Flights (Excess Baggage Fees)
- Charged per kilogram over the limit.
- Costs range between PHP 200–PHP 400 per kg, depending on the route.
International Flights (Excess Baggage Fees)
- Flights to North America – $100–$200 per extra bag.
- Flights to Asia & the Middle East – $10–$20 per extra kilogram.
- Flights to Europe – $100 per extra bag.
Tip: Save money by purchasing extra baggage allowance online before your flight, as airport charges are typically higher.
Special Baggage Policy
Philippine Airlines accommodates sports equipment, fragile items, and oversized baggage, but they have special rules:
Sports Equipment
- Golf clubs, surfboards, diving gear, and bicycles are accepted as checked baggage.
- If exceeding the weight allowance, excess baggage fees will apply.
Musical Instruments
- Small instruments (violins, guitars) may be carried as cabin baggage if they fit within size limits.
- Larger instruments need to be checked in or require booking an extra seat.
Medical Equipment & Assistive Devices
- Wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, and CPAP machines are allowed free of charge.
- Passengers must inform the airline in advance for special arrangements.
Restricted & Prohibited Items
To ensure safety, Philippine Airlines prohibits certain items from being carried on board:
Banned in Carry-On & Checked Baggage:
- Flammable materials, explosives, and fireworks.
- Compressed gases like butane and propane.
- Lithium batteries over the permitted watt-hour limit.
Allowed with Restrictions:
- Power banks and spare lithium batteries (must be carried in the cabin, not checked baggage).
- Alcoholic beverages (must be within the allowed alcohol content percentage).
- Sharp objects (must be packed in checked baggage).
Always check updated airline regulations before packing to avoid having items confiscated.
How to Avoid Baggage Issues at the Airport
- Weigh your luggage before leaving home to ensure compliance with airline rules.
- Use a luggage scale to check your bags meet the weight limits.
- Pack essential items in your carry-on, including medications and important documents.
- Purchase extra baggage online in advance to save money.
- Label your luggage with your contact details in case of loss or mishandling.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re flying within the Philippines or internationally, knowing Philippine Airlines’ baggage rules can help you pack smartly, avoid extra fees, and travel stress-free. By understanding carry-on, checked baggage, excess baggage fees, and special baggage policies, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip.
Have any specific questions about PAL’s baggage policies? Let us know in the comments! Safe travels!
