Packing for a trip to Taiwan or connecting through to Asia? Understanding airline baggage rules is the first step to a stress-free journey.
China Airlines has specific regulations that vary significantly depending on your destination and ticket class.
In recent years, they have shifted largely to a “Piece Concept” for many routes, a change that some older travel guides miss.
At a Glance: China Airlines Baggage Allowance Table
Here is the quick reference guide for international flights.
| Cabin Class | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Baggage (Long Haul)* | Checked Baggage (Short Haul Asia)* |
| Economy (Discount) | 1 bag (7kg) + 1 personal item | 1 Piece (23kg / 50lbs) | 1 Piece (23kg / 50lbs) |
| Economy (Basic/Standard) | 1 bag (7kg) + 1 personal item | 2 Pieces (23kg / 50lbs each) | 1-2 Pieces (23kg / 50lbs each)** |
| Premium Economy | 1 bag (7kg) + 1 personal item | 2 Pieces (28kg / 61lbs each) | 2 Pieces (28kg / 61lbs each) |
| Business Class | 2 bags (7kg each) + 1 personal item | 2 Pieces (32kg / 70lbs each) | 2 Pieces (32kg / 70lbs each) |
Note: Routes to/from the Americas, Europe, Oceania, and within Asia generally follow the Piece Concept.
Exceptions may apply for specific Trans-Tasman or domestic routes.
Allowance depends on fare family (e.g., “Flex” fares get 2 pieces, “Basic” might get 1).
Carry-On Baggage Rules
China Airlines is known to be relatively strict regarding carry-on weight, so it pays to measure and weigh your bag before you leave home.
Weight and Size Limits
For all classes, individual carry-on bags must not exceed 7kg (15lbs).
- Dimensions: Max 56 x 36 x 23 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches).
- Economy & Premium Economy: 1 Carry-on Bag + 1 Personal Item.
- Business Class: 2 Carry-on Bags + 1 Personal Item.
What Counts as a Personal Item?
In addition to your main carry-on, you can bring one personal item free of charge. This could be:
- Handbag or purse
- Small camera bag
- Laptop bag or backpack
- Umbrella
Personal Item Size Limit: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 inches). It must fit under the seat in front of you.
Checked Baggage Allowance
China Airlines mostly operates on the Piece Concept. This means your allowance is defined by the number of bags you can bring, not just the total weight.
Economy Class details
- Weight Limit: 23kg (50lbs) per bag.
- Long Haul (USA, Canada, Europe, Aus, NZ): Standard and Flex fares typically allow 2 pieces. Discount fares usually allow 1 piece.
- Short Haul (Within Asia): Allowances vary by fare type. “Discount” fares get 1 piece, while “Flex” fares get 2 pieces.
Premium Economy & Business Class
- Premium Economy: 2 pieces, up to 28kg (61lbs) each.
- Business Class: 2 pieces, up to 32kg (70lbs) each.
Total Dimensions
The total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) for any checked bag must not exceed 158cm (62 inches).
Excess Baggage Fees
If you go over your allowance, fees are charged based on “Zones” and the type of excess (overweight, oversize, or extra piece).
Overweight Fees
- 23kg to 32kg: Usually charged as 0.5 pieces of excess baggage rate.
- 32kg to 45kg: Charged as 3 pieces of excess baggage rate (very expensive!).
- Over 45kg: Not accepted as checked luggage; must be shipped as cargo.
Oversize Fees
- 158cm to 203cm: Charged as 0.5 pieces of excess baggage rate.
- Over 203cm: Charged as 1 piece of excess baggage rate.
Tip: You can get a 10% discount on excess baggage rates if you prepay online before your flight.
Special Items and Sports Equipment
Musical Instruments
- Carry-on: Small instruments (like flutes or violins) can count as your carry-on if they fit within 100 x 36 x 23 cm and weigh under 7kg.
- Checked: Instruments are part of your free allowance. The size limit is extended to 292cm (115 inches) total dimensions.
- Cabin Seat Baggage (CBBG): For large, fragile instruments (like a cello), you can purchase an extra seat. Request this at least 48 hours in advance.
Sporting Equipment
Most sports gear (golf clubs, bikes, surfboards) counts towards your free checked allowance.
- Bicycles: Must be in a sturdy box with tires deflated.
- Surfboards: If they fit within the allowance, they are free. If they exceed your piece limit, standard excess fees apply.
- Oversize Waiver: Specific items like golf bags, bicycles, and surfboards are often exempt from the standard 158cm size restriction (subject to weight limits), but always check with the airline 48 hours prior.
5 Tips to Smoothly Navigate Baggage Rules
Join the Dynasty Flyer Program
Paragon, Emerald, and Gold members get extra baggage allowance (usually 1 extra piece).
Weigh Your Carry-On
Staff at check-in often weigh cabin bags. If it’s over 7kg, you may be forced to check it.
Pack Batteries in Carry-On
Loose lithium batteries and power banks strictly belong in your carry-on. They are prohibited in checked luggage.
Label Everything
Remove old tags and place a contact card inside your bag in case the outer tag is ripped off.
Check Your Fare Class
“Economy” isn’t a single rule. A “Discount” ticket might have half the allowance of a “Flex” ticket. Check your e-ticket receipt for the code (e.g., L, N, M, B).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does China Airlines allow a laptop bag in addition to a carry-on?
Yes. You are allowed one standard carry-on bag plus one personal item, which can be a laptop bag, provided it fits the personal item dimensions (40 x 30 x 15 cm).
What is the baggage allowance for infants?
Infants not occupying a seat generally get 1 checked piece (same weight as the accompanying adult’s class) plus one fully collapsible stroller or car seat free of charge.
Are fees different if I fly to the US?
Yes. Flights to/from the US adhere strictly to the piece concept regulations set by US transportation authorities.
However, China Airlines has standardized the piece concept across most international routes now, making the rules more consistent globally than they were in the past.
Can I bring a drone on China Airlines?
Yes, but the drone itself must be off, and spare lithium batteries must be in your carry-on luggage. They cannot be checked. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval.
Final Thought
Always double-check your specific fare type on your ticket confirmation, as “Discount” fares have tighter limits.
Ready to fly? Visit the official China Airlines website to manage your booking and prepay for any excess luggage to save 10%.
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.
