Packing for a trip is exciting, but getting hit with surprise fees at the check-in counter is not.
Whether you are flying to Boracay or booking a long-haul flight to Los Angeles, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has specific rules that vary significantly by route.
Quick Policy Overview
The following table summarizes the standard allowances. Note: Always check your specific ticket, as “Supersaver” fares often include zero checked bags.
| Category | Standard Allowance | Key Limits |
| Carry-On | 1 Piece + 1 Personal Item | Max 7kg (15lbs); 56x36x23cm |
| Checked (Domestic) | Weight System (10kg–25kg) | No single bag >32kg |
| Checked (Intl – Asia) | Weight System (25kg–40kg) | Varies by route & fare class |
| Checked (Intl – US/Canada) | Piece System (2 Pieces) | 23kg (Economy) or 32kg (Business) |
| Excess Fees (Domestic) | PHP 400 per kg | Price effective April 10, 2025 |
Carry-On Baggage: What is Free?
Every passenger (except infants without a seat) is entitled to one piece of carry-on luggage.
- Weight Limit: Must not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs).
- Dimensions: Maximum 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (22in x 14in x 9in).
- Placement: Must fit in the overhead bin.
The “Personal Item” Allowance
In addition to your main carry-on, you may bring one personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. This includes:
- A laptop with a case (max 45x35x20cm)
- A small handbag or purse
- An overcoat or blanket
- A small camera or binoculars
- A walking stick or collapsible crutches
Pro Tip: Do not strap multiple items together. If you tape a laptop bag to a small box, PAL agents may count that as two items or force you to check it.
Checked Baggage: Weight vs. Piece System
This is where most travelers get confused. PAL uses two different systems depending on where you are flying.
1. The Weight System (Domestic & Asia)
For flights within the Philippines and to most Asian destinations (like Japan, Korea, Singapore), your allowance is based on total weight.
- How it works: If your allowance is 30kg, you can bring 2 or 3 bags, as long as the total weight does not exceed 30kg.
- Safety Rule: Even if your allowance is 40kg, no single bag can weigh more than 32kg. You must split the weight into two bags.
- Domestic Exception: “Economy Supersaver” tickets usually have 0kg baggage allowance.
2. The Piece System (US, Canada, Middle East)
For long-haul flights (e.g., Manila to Los Angeles or Toronto), the allowance is based on the number of bags.
- Economy: 2 pieces, up to 23kg (50lbs) each.
- Business: 2 pieces, up to 32kg (70lbs) each.
- Crucial Note: You cannot combine weight. If you have two bags allowed at 23kg each, you cannot bring one bag weighing 30kg and one weighing 10kg. The 30kg bag will be charged an overweight fee.
Excess Baggage Fees (2025-2026 Update)
If you exceed your allowance, fees apply. PAL has updated their domestic rates recently.
Domestic Flights
As of April 10, 2025, the excess baggage charge for domestic flights is PHP 400 per kg (inclusive of VAT).
International Flights
Fees vary by route.
- Within Asia: Approx. USD 10–15 per kg.
- To US/Canada: Charges are per piece. An extra piece typically costs USD 200. An overweight bag (23kg–32kg) usually incurs a USD 60–100 fee.
Special Items & Exceptions
Sports Equipment
Golf clubs, bikes, and surfboards are generally part of your free allowance if they fit within the weight/piece limits.
However, because surfboards are often oversized, they may incur separate handling fees unless you are Business Class or have specific loyalty status.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (like violins) can be your carry-on if they fit in the bin. Guitars usually must be checked.
If you have a large, fragile instrument (like a cello) that you don’t want to check, you must purchase an extra seat (Cabin Seat Baggage).
Infants
- Lap Infants: On international flights, allowed 10kg (Weight System) or 1 piece at 23kg (Piece System). Domestic flights usually offer no baggage allowance for lap infants.
- Freebie: You can check one fully collapsible stroller or car seat free of charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pool my baggage allowance with my family?
Yes, but only if you are checking in at the same time, at the same counter, and are booked on the same flight itinerary.
I bought an Economy Supersaver ticket. Can I add baggage later?
Yes. You can purchase Prepaid Baggage online up to 4 hours before your flight. This is significantly cheaper than paying the excess fee at the airport.
What happens if my bag weighs 33kg?
You will be forced to remove 1kg. For safety reasons, baggage handlers are not permitted to lift bags over 32kg. You must repack into a second bag or discard items.
Are power banks allowed in checked luggage?
No. Loose batteries and power banks must always go in your carry-on. If found in checked luggage, they will be removed and confiscated.
Final Thoughts
The most important update for the Philippine Airlines baggage policy 2026 is the strict enforcement of the PHP 400 per kg fee for domestic overages and the “Piece Concept” for North American flights.
Recommendation: Always buy Prepaid Baggage online if you think you might go over your limit. It can save you up to 50% compared to airport rates.
Disclaimer: Policies can change. Always verify the latest specific allowance on your ticket or the official Philippine Airlines website before flying.
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.
