Flying with EVA Air soon? As one of the world’s few 5-star airlines, EVA Air offers a premium experience, but their baggage rules can be stricter than what you might be used to, especially if you typically fly with US-based carriers.
Whether you are flying Royal Laurel Class to Taipei or Economy to Los Angeles, knowing the rules before you pack can save you hundreds of dollars in airport fees.
At a Glance: EVA Air Baggage Allowances
Here is the quick summary of what you can bring on board and check in for most international long-haul flights (US, Canada, Europe, Australia).
| Cabin Class | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Baggage Allowance (Standard Fares) | Max Weight Per Checked Bag |
| Royal Laurel / Business | 2 Bags + 1 Personal Item | 2 Pieces | 32kg (70lbs) |
| Premium Economy | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item | 2 Pieces | 23kg (50lbs) |
| Economy (Standard/Up) | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item | 2 Pieces | 23kg (50lbs) |
| Economy (Discount/Basic) | 1 Bag + 1 Personal Item | 1 Piece | 23kg (50lbs) |
Carry-On Baggage Rules
EVA Air is known for being strict regarding cabin baggage weight. Unlike some American carriers where “if you can lift it, it flies,” EVA Air frequently weighs carry-on bags at check-in and sometimes at the gate.
Allowance by Class
- Royal Laurel / Premium Laurel / Business Class: You are allowed two pieces of carry-on baggage.
- Premium Economy / Economy Class: You are allowed one piece of carry-on baggage.
Weight and Size Limits
- Maximum Weight: 7kg (15lbs) per piece.
- Maximum Dimensions: 23 x 36 x 56cm (9 x 14 x 22in) or a total linear dimension of 115cm (45in).
The “Personal Item”
In addition to your main carry-on, all passengers (regardless of class) can bring one personal item.
- Dimensions: 40 x 30 x 10cm (16 x 12 x 4in).
- Examples: A laptop (in a thin satchel), purse, small backpack, or camera case.
- Note: If your laptop bag is bulky or stuffed with clothes, it may be counted as your main carry-on rather than a personal item.
Checked Baggage Policy (Piece Concept)
For tickets issued after June 2022, EVA Air utilizes the Piece Concept for flights to and from the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. This means your allowance is defined by the number of bags, not just the total weight.
Royal Laurel / Business Class
- Allowance: 2 Pieces.
- Weight Limit: Up to 32kg (70lbs) per bag.
- Size Limit: Max linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of 158cm (62in).
Premium Economy
- Allowance: 2 Pieces.
- Weight Limit: Up to 23kg (50lbs) per bag.
- Size Limit: 158cm (62in).
Economy Class
Your allowance in Economy depends heavily on the “Fare Family” you purchased.
- Up / Standard / Basic Fares: 2 Pieces, up to 23kg (50lbs) each.
- Discount (Fare Class A): 1 Piece, up to 23kg (50lbs).
Pro Tip: Always check your specific ticket confirmation. If you booked a “Light” or deeply discounted promotional fare, you might have a lower allowance than standard Economy passengers.
Excess Baggage Fees
If you exceed your allowance, EVA Air charges fees based on a Zone System. The fee depends on where you are flying from and where you are landing.
Overweight Fees
EVA Air has a specific multiplier system for overweight bags. It is almost always cheaper to add an extra bag than to fly with an overweight one.
- 23kg to 32kg (50lbs to 70lbs): Charged at 0.5x the excess baggage rate per piece.
- 32kg to 45kg (70lbs to 100lbs): Charged at 3x the excess baggage rate per piece (requires prior approval).
- Over 45kg (100lbs): Not accepted as checked baggage. Must be shipped as Cargo.
Oversize Fees
- 158cm to 203cm (62in to 80in): Charged at 1x the excess baggage rate.
- 203cm to 292cm (80in to 115in): Charged at 2x the excess baggage rate.
How to Save 10% on Fees
If you know you are going to bring extra bags, do not wait until you get to the airport.
- Prepaid Excess Baggage: Purchase your extra bag allowance online via the “Manage Your Trip” section on the EVA Air website.
- The Benefit: You receive a 10% discount compared to airport rates.
- Deadline: Must be purchased at least 4 hours before flight departure.
Special Baggage & Exceptions
Traveling with Infants
- Lap Infant (No Seat): Allowed 1 checked bag (weight depends on adult’s booking class) plus 1 fully collapsible stroller, carrying basket, or car seat.
- Infant with Seat: Standard adult baggage allowance applies.
Sports Equipment
Sports equipment (golf clubs, surfboards, bikes) generally counts as part of your standard free baggage allowance.
- If it exceeds your allowance count, you pay the excess piece fee.
- If it is oversized (longer than 158cm), you may be subject to oversize fees, though some specific items like golf bags have waivers depending on the route. Always check with reservations 48 hours prior.
Musical Instruments
- Small Instruments: Can be carried on if within the 115cm dimension limit and under 7kg (e.g., a violin).
- Large Instruments: If it’s too big for the overhead but you don’t want to check it (e.g., a cello), you must purchase an extra seat (Cabin Baggage – CBBG). This must be booked 48 hours in advance through the reservation office, not online.
Pets
EVA Air generally does not allow pets in the cabin, with the strict exception of service dogs.
- Pets (cats, dogs, rabbits) can travel as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
- You must notify EVA Air at least 2 days before departure and fill out the “Passenger’s Declaration for Live Animal” form.
Final Thoughts
Always check the “Manage My Booking” section on the official EVA Air website for the most accurate allowance specific to your ticket confirmation.
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.
