Booking a flight to Colombia, Central America, or beyond? If you are flying with Avianca, you might have noticed their fare system looks a bit different than what you are used to.
With options ranging from “XS” to “XXL,” figuring out what you can bring for free and what will cost you extra can be confusing.
Nothing ruins a vacation vibe faster than a surprise $100 fee at the check-in counter.
At a Glance: Avianca Baggage Policy Summary
Avianca recently overhauled their fare structure. The amount of luggage you can bring depends entirely on the “Size” of the ticket you purchased.
Here is the quick reference guide for flights within the Americas:
| Fare Type | Personal Item | Carry-On Bag (10kg) | Checked Bag (23kg) |
| basic (XS) | Included | Pay Extra | Pay Extra |
| classic (S) | Included | Included | Pay Extra |
| flex (M) | Included | Included | 1 Included |
| business (L/XXL) | Included | Included | 2 Included |
Note: If you have LifeMiles Elite status or Star Alliance Gold status, you may be entitled to additional bags regardless of your fare class.
Carry-On Baggage Rules
Avianca is strict about carry-on limits, especially for the lower-tier fares.
1. Personal Item (Included for Everyone)
Every passenger, regardless of ticket type, is allowed one personal item. This must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 10 inches (45 x 35 x 25 cm).
- Examples: A backpack, laptop bag, purse, or diaper bag.
- Warning: If your backpack is too stiff or stuffed to fit under the seat, they may force you to check it and pay a fee.
2. Carry-On Bag (Fare Dependent)
If you purchased an XS fare, a standard carry-on is not included. You must pay to add it. For S, M, L, and Business Class fares, one carry-on is free.
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 10 inches (55 x 35 x 25 cm).
- Max Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg).
- Policy: It must fit in the overhead bin. If you arrive at the gate with a carry-on that isn’t included in your fare, you will be charged a gate fee, which is significantly higher than the online price.
Checked Baggage Allowance
When it comes to checked luggage, Avianca uses two different systems depending on where you are flying. It is vital to know which one applies to your trip.
The Piece Concept (Americas)
For flights within North, Central, and South America (including the Caribbean), allowances are based on the number of bags.
- Standard Weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.
- Standard Size: 62 linear inches (158 cm) (Length + Width + Height).
- allowance:
- M Fares: 1 bag included.
- L / XXL Fares: 2 bags included.
- XS / S Fares: 0 bags included (Must purchase).
The Weight Concept (Europe)
If you are flying between Europe and the Americas, the rules change slightly. You are often limited by total weight rather than just the number of pieces.
- Economy: Total combined weight allowance (usually 23kg).
- Business: Higher weight allowance (usually 2 bags x 32kg).
Tip: Always double-check your specific ticket confirmation email. If your ticket says “0 PC,” you have zero checked bags included.
Baggage Fees: What Will It Cost?
Avianca uses dynamic pricing. This means the cost of a bag varies based on when you buy it, your route, and the season.
Crucial Rule: Always buy your baggage allowance online before you get to the airport. Airport counter fees can be double the online price.
Estimated Fees (One-Way)
| Route Type | Fee (Online / Pre-paid) | Fee (At Airport) |
| Domestic (Colombia) | ~$15 – $30 USD | ~$30 – $50 USD |
| Intl (Americas) | ~$45 – $70 USD | ~$90 – $110 USD |
| Intl (Europe) | ~$80 – $100 USD | ~$130+ USD |
Overweight and Oversized Fees
If your bag exceeds the standard limits, get ready to pay.
- Overweight (51–70 lbs / 23–32 kg): Approx. $50–$100 USD per bag.
- Oversized (63–90 inches / 159–230 cm): Approx. $100–$150 USD per bag.
- Heavy Baggage (>70 lbs / 32 kg): Generally not accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo.
Exceptions and Special Items
Traveling with Infants
- Lap Infants (under 2): You can bring one diaper bag (up to 10kg) into the cabin for free.
- Strollers: You can check one stroller or car seat completely free of charge. Small strollers (that fold down to carry-on size) may be taken into the cabin if space permits.
Sports Equipment
Avianca allows sports equipment (golf clubs, surfboards, bikes), but fees apply.
- If your equipment fits within standard weight/size limits (23kg / 158cm), it can sometimes count as your “first bag” on M or L fares.
- If it exceeds dimensions (like a surfboard), you will pay a special handling fee, usually starting around $50 USD for domestic and $100+ USD for international flights.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (violins, flutes) can be your carry-on item if they fit in the bin.
For larger instruments (guitars, cellos), you must either check them (in a hard case) or purchase an extra seat for them in the cabin.
4 Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees
Do the Math on Fares
Before buying the “cheap” XS fare, check the price of the “S” or “M” fare. Often, the difference in price is less than the cost of adding a bag later.
Join LifeMiles
Even the Silver tier (the lowest elite tier) gives you extra baggage benefits.
Measure Your Personal Item
Since XS fares strictly allow only a personal item, gate agents are vigilant. Ensure your backpack isn’t bulging so it slides easily under the seat.
Weigh at Home
A $10 luggage scale can save you $100 in overweight fees. 51 lbs is not 50 lbs to an airline scale!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pool my baggage weight with my travel companion?
Generally, no. Avianca operates on a “per bag” basis for most flights in the Americas. One bag weighing 26kg is considered overweight, even if your partner’s bag only weighs 10kg.
What happens if I buy an XS fare but change my mind?
You can add a carry-on or checked bag via the “My Trips” section on the Avianca website. Do this as early as possible for the best price.
Are CPAP machines allowed?
Yes. Medical assistive devices like CPAP machines do not count toward your carry-on limit and are allowed on board for free.
I have a connection with a different airline. Whose rules apply?
If you booked a single ticket (e.g., Avianca connecting to United), the baggage rules of the “Most Significant Carrier” usually apply. However, it is safest to adhere to the stricter policy of the two airlines to avoid issues.
Final Thoughts
The key to navigating the Avianca airlines baggage policy is knowing your “Size.” If you book the cheapest XS option, travel extremely light.
If you need luggage, upgrading to an M or L fare is often cheaper than paying for bags separately.
Always double-check the Avianca website 24 hours before departure, as fees can fluctuate. Pack smart, measure your bags, and enjoy your trip!
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.
