Flying to Paris, Tahiti, or San Francisco on a budget? French bee offers some of the most competitive transatlantic fares on the market.
But like any low-cost carrier, their business model relies on strict baggage rules and “à la carte” fees.
If you don’t know the difference between a “Bee Light” and a “Bee Smart” fare, or if you show up to the airport with a bag that is two kilograms overweight, those cheap tickets can suddenly become expensive.
French Bee Baggage Allowance: The “Cheat Sheet”
Before diving into the fine print, here is a quick summary of what you are allowed to bring based on your ticket type.
Important Update: For all tickets purchased after February 17, 2025, a carry-on bag is now included in all fare classes, including the basic “Bee Light” fare.
| Fare Class | Personal Item | Carry-On Bag | Checked Bag | Meal Included? |
| Bee Light | Yes (4kg/9lbs) | Yes (12kg/26lbs combined) | No (Pay extra) | No |
| Bee Light+ | Yes (4kg/9lbs) | Yes (12kg/26lbs combined) | No (Pay extra) | Yes |
| Bee Smart | Yes (4kg/9lbs) | Yes (12kg/26lbs combined) | 1 Bag (23kg/50lbs) | Yes |
| Bee Flex | Yes (4kg/9lbs) | Yes (12kg/26lbs combined) | 1 Bag (23kg/50lbs) | Yes |
| Premium Smart | Yes (4kg/9lbs) | Yes (12kg/26lbs combined) | 2 Bags (23kg/50lbs ea) | Yes |
| Premium Flex | Yes (4kg/9lbs) | Yes (12kg/26lbs combined) | 2 Bags (23kg/50lbs ea) | Yes |
Carry-On Baggage Rules
French bee is strict about cabin luggage. Unlike legacy carriers that rarely weigh cabin bags, French bee staff frequently weigh bags at check-in and the boarding gate.
1. The “Combined Weight” Rule
This is where most travelers get caught. You are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item, but their combined weight must not exceed 12kg (26 lbs).
You do not get 12kg for the overhead bag plus extra weight for the backpack under the seat. Both items are weighed together.
2. Dimensions
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum 21″ x 15″ x 7″ (55 x 40 x 20 cm).
- Personal Item: Maximum 16″ x 12″ x 6″ (40 x 30 x 15 cm).
The personal item must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Examples include a laptop bag, small backpack, or purse.
3. Prohibited Items (Powders)
If you are flying to or from the United States, be aware of the “Powder Rule.” Powder-like substances (coffee, protein powder, spices) greater than 12oz (350ml) are prohibited in carry-on luggage and must be checked.
Checked Baggage Policy & Fees
If you need more than a weekend’s worth of clothes, you will likely need a checked bag. The allowance depends heavily on your fare bundle.
Weight and Size Limits
- Maximum Weight: 50 lbs (23kg) per bag.
- Maximum Size: 62 inches (158 cm) total dimensions (Length + Width + Height).
Critical Rule: Baggage weight is not additive. If you have two checked bags, you cannot have one weighing 28kg and the other 18kg. Each individual bag must be under 23kg, or you will pay an overweight fee.
Baggage Fees (2026 Estimates)
If your ticket (like “Bee Light”) does not include a bag, or if you want to add a second bag, buying it online in advance is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport.
- First Checked Bag (Online): ~$70 USD
- First Checked Bag (Airport): ~$140 USD
- Second Checked Bag (Online): ~$100 USD
- Second Checked Bag (Airport): ~$150 USD
Note: Fees apply per one-way journey. A round-trip Paris to San Francisco flight would require paying the fee twice.
Oversize and Overweight Fees
If your bag exceeds 23kg (50lbs) but is under 32kg (70lbs), you will be charged an overweight fee at the airport.
- Overweight Fee: Charged in addition to the standard bag fee.
- Oversize Fee: If the bag exceeds 158cm (total dimensions), a fixed charge applies (~$160 USD).
Bags weighing more than 32kg (70lbs) will not be accepted and must be shipped via Cargo.
Traveling with Infants, Sports Gear & Pets
Infants and Children
French bee is relatively family-friendly regarding equipment.
- Under 2 years old: You may check one stroller OR one car seat free of charge.
- Children 2-12: Standard baggage rules apply, but strollers can generally be checked at the gate.
- Infant Baggage: Babies under 2 do not get a standard carry-on allowance, but if you book a fare with a checked bag (Smart/Flex), the infant gets a 10kg (22lbs) checked bag allowance.
Sports Equipment
Sports equipment is generally not included in the standard baggage allowance and requires a separate fee.
- Standard Equipment (Golf, Skiing, Diving): ~$100 USD online / $130 at airport.
- Bicycles: ~$100 USD online. Must be in a box/bag with pedals removed and handlebars flush.
- Surfboards: ~$130 USD online. (Maximum 32kg).
Musical Instruments
- Small Instruments: Can be your carry-on if within dimensions (55 x 45 x 25 cm).
- Large Instruments: Must be checked (standard fees apply) or you must purchase an extra seat for the item (e.g., a cello).
5 Tips to Avoid French Bee Baggage Fees
Book Bags Online
Always pay for baggage at least 48 hours before departure. The price doubles if you pay at the airport check-in desk.
Weigh at Home
French bee strictly enforces the 23kg limit for checked bags and the 12kg limit for carry-ons. Use a handheld luggage scale before you leave the house.
Wear Your Heaviest Clothes
Since the carry-on weight limit is strict, wear your coat and heaviest boots on the plane.
Use Packing Cubes
If you are slightly overweight at the counter, packing cubes make it easier to quickly move heavy items from a checked bag to a carry-on (or vice versa) without displaying your laundry to the terminal.
Upgrade Your Fare
If you know you are bringing a checked bag and want a meal, compare the cost of the “Bee Smart” fare vs. the “Bee Light” fare plus add-ons. The bundle is often cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does French bee weigh carry-on bags?
Yes, frequently. They often check weight at the check-in desk and again at the boarding gate. If you are over the limit, you will be forced to check the bag and pay the gate fee (approx. $90-$100).
Can I bring snacks on a Bee Light fare?
Yes. While meals are not included in “Bee Light,” you are allowed to bring your own food on board. However, you cannot consume your own alcohol; you must purchase it from the cabin crew.
What happens if my bag is 1kg overweight?
Strictly speaking, you will be charged an overweight fee. Some agents may be lenient for 0.5kg, but do not count on it. It is cheaper to remove an item than to pay the fee.
Final Thoughts
Always finalize your baggage needs online at least 48 hours before your flight to secure the best rates.
Disclaimer: Airlines update policies frequently. While this guide is accurate as of early 2026, always check the official French bee website 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.
