Planning a trip to Panama, South America, or beyond with Copa Airlines? Understanding the airline’s luggage rules is crucial to avoiding unexpected fees at the check-in counter.
With policy updates implemented in late 2025 remaining effective for 2026, travelers need the latest information on weight limits and size restrictions.
Quick Summary: Copa Airlines Baggage Rules
Before we dive into the fine print, here is a quick reference table to help you pack efficiently.
| Baggage Type | Allowance | Max Weight | Max Dimensions (L+W+H) | Typical Fee |
| Personal Item | 1 per passenger | N/A | 36 linear in (90 cm) | Free |
| Carry-On Bag | 1 per passenger | 22 lbs (10 kg) | 46 linear in (118 cm) | Free |
| Checked Bag | Varies by Fare | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear in (158 cm) | Varies (often $30-$40 if not included) |
| Overweight (Med) | 51-70 lbs | N/A | N/A | $100 USD (Intl) / $30 (Dom) |
| Overweight (High) | 71-100 lbs | N/A | N/A | $200 USD (Intl) / $60 (Dom) |
| Oversized | 63-115 inches | N/A | 115 linear in | $150 USD |
Cabin Baggage: What You Can Bring on Board
Copa Airlines maintains a standard carry-on policy that applies to all passengers, regardless of fare class or frequent flyer status.
Free Carry-On Allowance
Every passenger is entitled to one carry-on bag free of charge.
- Weight Limit: 22 lbs (10 kg).
- Size Limit: 22″ high x 14″ long x 10″ wide (56 x 36 x 26 cm).
- Important Note: The bag must fit in the overhead bin, and you must be able to lift it yourself without assistance.
Personal Item
In addition to your carry-on, you may bring one personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Examples: Backpack, laptop bag, or purse.
- Size Limit: 17″ high x 10″ long x 9″ wide (43 x 25 x 22 cm).
- Warning: If your personal item is too large, it will be checked at the gate, potentially incurring a fee.
Exceptions for Infants
If you are traveling with an infant (0-23 months), you can bring one of the following items free of charge in addition to your diaper bag:
- A child safety seat (if the infant has a purchased seat).
- A small collapsible stroller (max length 110 cm).
Checked Baggage: Allowances and Fees
Checked baggage rules on Copa Airlines depend heavily on your route, fare family (Basic, Classic, or Full), and ConnectMiles status.
Standard Allowance
- Weight: Standard checked bags must not exceed 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Dimensions: The total linear dimensions (Height + Length + Width) must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm).
- Economy Basic: Typically does not include a free checked bag. You must pay for the first bag.
- Economy Classic/Full: Usually includes the first checked bag free of charge.
- Business Class: Typically allows two bags up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each.
Excess Baggage Fees
If you pack more than your allowance permits, fees apply. These are cumulative—meaning if a bag is both overweight and oversized, you pay both fees.
Overweight Fees (International Flights):
- 51 lbs – 70 lbs (24-32 kg): $100 USD fee.
- 71 lbs – 100 lbs (33-45 kg): $200 USD fee.
- Over 100 lbs: Sent as cargo (not accepted as checked luggage).
Oversize Fees:
- Bags measuring between 63 inches (159 cm) and 115 inches (294 cm) incur a fee of $150 USD.
- Bags larger than 115 inches are not accepted.
Seasonal Restrictions and Embargoes
One specific aspect of the Copa Airlines baggage policy 2026 travelers often miss is the seasonal embargo.
During peak travel periods (typically December through January), Copa restricts luggage on specific routes.
Common Embargo Rules
- Flights to/from specific destinations (e.g., Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador) often restrict baggage to only two pieces per passenger.
- During these dates, excess baggage, boxes, and irregular items may be strictly prohibited.
- Always check the “Baggage Restrictions” page on the Copa website if you are flying between December 1, 2025, and January 12, 2026.
4 Tips to Save Money on Baggage
Don’t let baggage fees eat into your vacation budget. Here is how to keep costs low.
Prepay Online
Paying for extra bags at the airport is almost always more expensive. Use the “Web Check-In” feature up to 24 hours before your flight to prepay for luggage at a discount.
Join ConnectMiles
PreferMember Silver status and above often receive extra baggage allowances and priority handling.
Pack Light for “Basic” Fares
If you bought the cheapest ticket (Basic), you likely have no checked bag allowance. Strictly sticking to a carry-on and personal item can save you $30-$60 per leg.
Avoid Boxes on Embargo Routes
If you are bringing gifts in boxes to Central America during the holidays, ensure you aren’t flying during an embargo period, or they may be refused entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Copa Airlines allow pets?
Yes, small pets (dogs and cats) are allowed in the cabin if the carrier fits under the seat. This replaces your carry-on luggage and incurs a fee.
Pets are generally not allowed in Business Class due to seat configurations.
Are musical instruments allowed?
Yes. Small instruments can be your carry-on item. Larger instruments can be checked (subject to oversize fees) or you can purchase an extra seat for the instrument if you want it in the cabin.
How strict is Copa with carry-on weight?
Copa can be quite strict, especially at hub airports like Panama City (Tocumen). They may weigh carry-on bags at the check-in counter or the gate. Ensure your carry-on does not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
Final Thought
Ready to fly?
Double-check your specific allowance by logging into the “My Trips” section on the official Copa Airlines website before you head to the airport. Safe travels
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
