Packing for a trip is exciting, but navigating airline baggage rules can often feel like solving a puzzle.
If you are flying with Austrian Airlines in 2026, knowing the specific allowances for your ticket type is crucial to avoiding unexpected fees at the airport.
Austrian Airlines Baggage Allowance at a Glance
Before we dive into the fine print, here is a quick overview of what you can bring based on your travel class.
| Class | Carry-On Bags | Personal Item | Checked Bags (Free) | Max Weight (Checked) |
| Economy Light | 1 x 8 kg | 1 x included | 0 (Pay to add) | N/A |
| Economy Classic/Green | 1 x 8 kg | 1 x included | 1 | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Economy Flex | 1 x 8 kg | 1 x included | 1 | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Premium Economy | 1 x 8 kg | 1 x included | 1 or 2 (Route dependent) | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Business Class | 2 x 8 kg | 1 x included | 2 | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
Note: All checked bags must adhere to the maximum dimension of 158 cm (length + width + height).
Carry-On Baggage Rules
Austrian Airlines is strict regarding carry-on weight. Regardless of your class, your main carry-on bag must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
Standard Carry-On Dimensions
- Max Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
- Max Weight: 8 kg per bag
Personal Item
In addition to your main carry-on, every passenger is allowed one personal item free of charge. This must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Max Size: 40 x 30 x 10 cm
- Examples: Laptop bag, handbag, or small shoulder bag.
Important Note for Business Travelers: While Business Class passengers get two carry-on bags, each bag is individually capped at 8 kg.
You cannot combine the weight (e.g., one bag cannot weigh 12 kg even if the other weighs 4 kg).
Checked Baggage Policy
Your checked baggage allowance depends entirely on your fare type and route.
European Routes
- Economy Light: No checked bags included.
- Economy Classic & Green: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Business Class: 2 bags up to 32 kg each.
Tip: The new “Green Fares” (Economy Green / Business Green) include extra perks like 20% more miles, but their baggage allowance generally mirrors the standard Economy/Business allocations.
Intercontinental Routes
- Economy Light: No checked bags included.
- Economy Saver/Basic/Flex: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Premium Economy: 2 bags up to 23 kg each.
- Business Class: 2 bags up to 32 kg each.
Travelling with Infants
If you are traveling with a baby (0-2 years) on your lap:
- You are entitled to 1 free checked bag (max 23 kg) except on Economy Light fares.
- You may bring a foldable stroller (max 10 kg), car seat, or carrycot free of charge. Fully collapsible strollers can often be taken to the gate.
Baggage Fees: Excess, Overweight, and Oversized
If you exceed your free allowance, Austrian Airlines charges fees based on the “Piece Concept.” These fees vary significantly depending on whether you are flying domestically, within Europe, or Intercontinentally.
Economy Light: Adding a Bag
If you booked an Economy Light fare but decide you need to check a bag later, you will pay a fee.
- Domestic/Europe: Approx. €15 – €25 (Online/Pre-paid) vs. €30 – €50 (Airport)
- Intercontinental: Approx. €60 – €70 per direction.
Pro Tip: Always book extra bags online before you get to the airport. Airport counters charge significantly higher rates than the website’s “My Bookings” section.
Overweight and Oversized Fees
Fees apply if your bag is heavier than 23 kg (for Economy) or larger than 158 cm (total linear dimensions).
| Violation | Route: Europe | Route: Intercontinental |
| Overweight (24-32 kg) | €50 – €65 | €100 – €150 |
| Oversized (>158 cm) | €100 – €120 | €200 – €250 |
| Both Overweight & Oversized | €150 – €185 | €300 – €400 |
Note: Bags weighing more than 32 kg (70 lbs) will not be accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as air cargo.
Sports Equipment and Special Items
Austrian Airlines is relatively accommodating to sports enthusiasts, provided you register your equipment in advance.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Good news for winter sports lovers: One set of ski or snowboard equipment is often transported free of charge per person, except on “Economy Light” fares.
- This applies to 1 pair of skis/snowboard, 1 pair of poles, 1 pair of boots, and 1 helmet.
- Warning: This benefit does not apply on flights to/from/via the USA, Mexico, and Central America.
Bicycles, Golf Bags, and Surfboards
For other sports equipment, if it fits within your free baggage allowance (weight/number of pieces), it carries no extra charge. If it exceeds your allowance, standard sport fees apply:
- Domestic/Europe: ~€70 – €80
- Intercontinental: ~€200 – €250
Important: You must register sports equipment via the Austrian Airlines Guest Service Team beforehand. Space in the hold is limited.
Musical Instruments
- Small Instruments (Violin, etc.): Can be carried on if they fit within 55 x 40 x 23 cm and 8 kg.
- Large Instruments (Cello, Guitar): If it exceeds carry-on limits, you must book an extra seat for it (contact the service center) or check it in as special baggage (subject to fees). Hard cases are mandatory for checked instruments.
Tips to Avoid Fees
Check Your Fare Class
“Economy Light” is the cheapest option but often costs more in the long run if you inevitably need to check a bag. Compare the cost of “Classic” vs. “Light” + Baggage Fee.
Weigh Before You Leave
European airlines are stricter than US airlines regarding the 8 kg carry-on limit. Weigh your bag at home.
Leverage Star Alliance Status
If you are a Star Alliance Gold member, HON Circle Member, or Senator, you are generally entitled to one extra free bag (except on Light fares).
Buy Online
Never pay for baggage at the check-in counter. The “Airport Fee” is significantly higher than the online pre-pay rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine the weight of my bags?
No. If you have two checked bags allowed (e.g., in Business Class), you cannot have one bag weigh 35 kg and the other 15 kg. Each individual bag must meet the weight limit (32 kg for Business, 23 kg for Economy).
Is a laptop bag considered a personal item?
Yes. A laptop bag, handbag, or shoulder bag (max 40 x 30 x 10 cm) counts as your one free personal item.
Do I get free bags on Economy Light if I have Frequent Flyer status?
No. HON Circle, Senators, and Star Alliance Gold members do not receive free baggage benefits when booking “Economy Light” fares on European or North American routes.
Final Thoughts
Always check your ticket confirmation email for the specific allowance code (e.g., “1 PC” means 1 Piece).
When in doubt, utilize the baggage calculator on the official Austrian Airlines website before you pack.
Disclaimer: Airline policies can change without notice. Always verify the latest details on the official Austrian Airlines website before your travel date.
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.
