Planning a trip to Italy or beyond with ITA Airways? Whether you are flying “Economy Light” to Rome or “Business Class” to Tokyo, knowing the baggage rules before you pack can save you serious money at the airport.
At a Glance: ITA Airways Baggage Policy Summary
Here is a quick reference table to help you pack correctly.
| Category | Allowance / Limit | Notes |
| Carry-On Bag | 1 bag up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) | Max dims: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.8 x 9.8 in) |
| Personal Item | 1 item (free) | Max dims: 45 x 36 x 20 cm (17.7 x 14.1 x 7.8 in) |
| Economy Light | No checked bags included | Carry-on only. Checked bags cost extra. |
| Economy Standard | 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lb) | Max linear size: 158 cm (62 in) |
| Premium Economy | 2 bags up to 23 kg (50 lb) | Max linear size: 158 cm (62 in) |
| Business Class | 2 bags up to 32 kg (70 lb) | Max linear size: 158 cm (62 in) |
| Infants (0-23 mo) | 10 kg checked bag (except Light fare) | Stroller is free on all fares. |
1. Carry-On Baggage Rules
ITA Airways allows every passenger to bring hand luggage, but they are known to weigh bags at check-in counters and boarding gates.
The Standard Carry-On
Every ticket (including Economy Light) includes one carry-on bag.
- Weight Limit: Must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
- Size Limit: Maximum dimensions are 55 cm H x 35 cm W x 25 cm D (including handles, pockets, and wheels).
The Personal Item
In addition to your main carry-on, you may bring one accessory. This includes a handbag, work backpack, or laptop bag.
- Size Limit: Must fit under the seat in front of you (45 cm x 36 cm x 20 cm).
- Labeling: At the airport, ground crew may provide an “Under the Seat” label for small luggage.
Warning for Busy Flights: On flights with a high load factor (completely full), airport staff may collect your carry-on at the gate and place it in the hold for free. This is for safety and comfort.
Always keep valuable items (medication, electronics, documents) in your personal item so they stay with you.
2. Checked Baggage Allowance
Your free checked baggage allowance depends entirely on your travel class and destination.
Economy Light
- Allowance: 0 bags.
- Cost: You must pay to check a bag. It is cheaper to add this online before your flight than at the airport.
Economy
- Standard Allowance: 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Exceptions:
- Flights to/from Japan: 2 bags (23 kg each).
- Flights to/from Accra and Dakar: 2 bags (23 kg each).
Premium Economy
- Allowance: 2 bags up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each.
Business Class & Superior
- Allowance: 2 bags up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each.
- Business Classic: On flights to/from Europe and North Africa, the limit is 1 bag at 32 kg.
Maximum Dimensions: The sum of the three dimensions (Height + Width + Depth) must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches).
3. Excess Baggage Fees
If you bring more bags than your ticket allows, or if your bags are heavy/oversized, you will face additional fees. Note: Fees vary by route and when you pay.
Extra Bag Fees (Second/Third Bag)
If you are flying Economy and want to add a bag, fees generally range as follows:
- Domestic (Italy): Approx. €60 (1st bag) to €75+ (2nd bag).
- International (Europe/North Africa): Approx. €70 – €85.
- Intercontinental (USA/Rest of World): Approx. €100 – €250 per bag.
Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag weighs between 23 kg and 32 kg (50-70 lbs), you will be charged an overweight fee.
- Domestic/Europe: ~€60 – €75
- Intercontinental: ~€100 ($120 USD)
- Important: Bags over 32 kg (70 lbs) are not accepted for safety reasons. You must ship these as cargo.
Oversize Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds 158 cm (up to a max of 203 cm):
- Domestic: ~€60
- Europe/North Africa: ~€80
- Intercontinental: ~€300 ($330 USD)
Pro Tip: Always purchase extra baggage allowance online or via the “Manage My Booking” tool. Airport fees are significantly higher.
4. Special Items and Exceptions
Infants and Children
- Strollers: You can transport a foldable stroller free of charge for children up to 11 years old. It must be tagged and usually checked into the hold.
- Infant Baggage:
- Light Tariff: No checked bag for the infant (stroller only).
- Standard Tariff: Infants (0-23 months) get 1 bag up to 10 kg.
Sports Equipment
Sports equipment (skis, bikes, golf clubs, surfboards) is considered “Special Baggage.”
- Small Equipment (Ski, Golf, Fencing): Fees start around €40-€75 depending on the route.
- Large Equipment (Bicycles, Surfboards, Canoes): Fees start around €60-€125.
- Weight: If the item exceeds 23 kg, excess weight fees apply on top of the sports equipment fee.
- Max Size: Must not exceed 300 cm linear dimensions.
Musical Instruments
- In Cabin: Allowed for free in place of your carry-on if it fits (max 115 cm linear, max 8 kg). For larger instruments (like a cello), you must purchase an extra seat.
- In Hold: Must be in a sturdy, hard-shell case. Standard checked bag fees or excess fees apply if it exceeds your allowance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the “Light” fare include a personal item?
Yes. Even on Economy Light, you get one standard carry-on (8 kg) AND one small personal item (backpack/purse) that fits under the seat.
How much is a checked bag if I buy it at the airport?
It is significantly more expensive. For example, a bag that costs €60 online might cost €85 or more at the airport counter.
Are pets allowed on ITA Airways?
Yes. Cats and dogs can travel in the cabin (max weight 10 kg including carrier) or in the hold. You must book this in advance via customer service as there is a limit per flight.
What happens if I have a connection with another airline?
If your flight is a codeshare (e.g., Delta or Air France), the baggage rules of the marketing carrier (the airline code on your ticket) usually apply for flights to/from the US.
For other routes, the operating carrier’s rules may apply. Always check your ticket confirmation.
Final Thoughts
To avoid stress at the airport, weigh your bags at home and ensure your carry-on is under that critical 8 kg limit.
If you know you’ll need more luggage, upgrade to a “Classic” fare or buy the baggage allowance online at least 24 hours before you fly to get the best rate.
Disclaimer:Airlines update policies frequently. Always check the official ITA Airways website for the most current information before you fly.
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.
