Flying with Mexico’s leading ultra-low-cost carrier soon? If you’ve booked a trip with Viva Aerobus, understanding their baggage rules is crucial.
Their “pay-for-what-you-need” model means ticket prices are low, but baggage mistakes can be expensive.
At a Glance: Viva Aerobus Baggage Allowances 2026
Before diving into the details, here is a quick summary of what each fare combo typically includes. Note that Viva Aerobus recently rebranded some fare names (e.g., “Light” is now often referred to as “Switch”).
| Fare Combo | Personal Item | Carry-On Bag | Checked Bag |
| Zero | Included (18 x 14 x 8 in) | Not Included | Not Included |
| Light / Switch | Included (18 x 14 x 8 in) | Included (22 lbs / 10 kg) | Not Included (unless added) |
| Extra | Included (18 x 14 x 8 in) | Included (22 lbs / 10 kg) | 1 Bag (33 lbs / 15 kg) |
| Smart | Included (18 x 14 x 8 in) | Included (33 lbs / 15 kg) | 1 Bag (55 lbs / 25 kg) |
Note: Policies can vary based on whether your flight is domestic (within Mexico) or international. Always check your specific booking confirmation.
Carry-On Baggage Rules
Viva Aerobus is strict about cabin luggage. Your allowance depends entirely on the fare you purchased.
1. The Personal Item (Free for Everyone)
Every single passenger, regardless of fare class, is allowed one personal item free of charge.
- Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
- Rules: It must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
- Examples: A purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or diaper bag.
2. The Standard Carry-On Bag
This is the larger bag that goes in the overhead bin. It is NOT included in the “Zero” fare.
- Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 10 inches (55 x 40 x 25 cm), including wheels and handles.
- Weight Limit:
- Switch/Extra Fare: Max 22 lbs (10 kg).
- Smart Fare: Max 33 lbs (15 kg).
Warning for Zero Fare Passengers
If you booked the cheapest option (Zero), you cannot bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin unless you pay to upgrade. If you arrive at the gate with a carry-on, you will be charged a high gate fee to check it.
Checked Baggage Fees and Weight Limits
If you are packing for a longer trip, you’ll likely need to check a bag. The weight limit depends on your ticket, but the physical size limit is standard across the board.
- Maximum Size: 62 linear inches (158 cm) – this is length + width + height.
- Maximum Weight:
- Extra Fare: 33 lbs (15 kg).
- Smart Fare: 55 lbs (25 kg).
Purchasing Extra Bags
You can add extra baggage to any fare. It is significantly cheaper to do this online before your flight than at the airport. You can typically add bags weighing:
- 33 lbs (15 kg)
- 44 lbs (20 kg)
- 55 lbs (25 kg)
- 70 lbs (32 kg)
Fee Estimates (2026)
While exact prices fluctuate based on route and season, expect to pay approximately $30–$45 USD (or ~600–900 MXN) for a standard checked bag if booked online. Airport fees can be nearly double this amount.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage
If your bag is heavier or larger than your pre-purchased allowance, you will pay a penalty.
- Overweight Fee: Charged per kilogram of excess weight.
- Oversize Fee: Charged if the bag exceeds 62 linear inches (158 cm). This fee is currently around $35 USD (international) or ~522 MXN (domestic).
Special Baggage Items
Flying with more than just a suitcase? Here is how Viva Aerobus handles special equipment.
Sports Equipment
Surfboards, golf clubs, bicycles, and diving gear can be checked, but they are not considered standard luggage.
- Cost: Approximately $60–$75 USD (~1150 MXN) depending on the item and booking method.
- Weight Limit: Max 70 lbs (32 kg).
- Size Limit: Max 126 linear inches (319 cm).
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (like a violin or flute) can be your carry-on if they fit in the overhead bin and meet the 22 x 16 x 10 inch dimensions.
Larger instruments (guitars, cellos) must be checked as special baggage or require the purchase of an extra seat if you wish to keep them in the cabin.
Infants and Strollers
If you are traveling with an infant (under 2 years old) on your lap:
- You can check a stroller and a car seat free of charge.
- A diaper bag is allowed as the infant’s personal item, provided it fits the personal item dimensions.
5 Tips to Save Money on Viva Aerobus Baggage
Book the Right Combo Initially
If you know you need a checked bag, buy the “Smart” fare. It is usually cheaper than buying a “Zero” fare and adding a bag later.
Pay Online, Not at the Airport
Viva Aerobus charges a premium for airport transactions. Adding a bag via the website or app up to 4 hours before departure can save you up to 50%.
Measure Your Personal Item
Staff at Mexican airports often ask passengers to place bags in the “sizer” bins. If your backpack sticks out, they will charge you.
Weigh Bags at Home
A bag that is 1 kg overweight can incur fees almost as high as buying a whole new bag allowance.
Join Doters
Viva’s loyalty program sometimes offers perks or easier ways to manage add-ons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Viva Aerobus weigh carry-on bags?
Yes. Unlike some US carriers that only check size, Viva Aerobus staff frequently weigh carry-on bags at check-in counters and occasionally at the boarding gate. Stick to the 10 kg (22 lbs) limit strictly unless you have the Smart fare.
Can I pool baggage weight with my travel companion?
Generally, no. Baggage weight applies to individual bags. If you have two bags allowed at 15 kg each, you cannot have one bag weighing 5 kg and another weighing 25 kg.
What happens if my personal item is too big?
If your personal item doesn’t fit in the sizing bin or under the seat, you will be forced to check it or pay for a carry-on upgrade. This gate fee is the most expensive way to pay for luggage.
How much are baggage fees for international flights vs. domestic?
International fees (e.g., USA to Mexico) are generally higher and charged in USD. Domestic fees are charged in MXN and are slightly lower. Always check the “My Flight” section on their website for the exact fee for your specific route.
Final Thoughts
By measuring your bags, adhering to the weight limits, and purchasing any necessary allowances online in advance, you can breeze through check-in and enjoy your flight.
Ready to fly? Double-check your specific allowance by logging into the “My Booking” section on the official Viva Aerobus website before you head to the airport.
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.
