Flying with Singapore Airlines is synonymous with luxury and service, but even the world’s best airline has strict rules when it comes to luggage.
Getting caught with overweight bags at Changi Airport can be an expensive start to your trip.
Whether you are flying Economy Lite or First Class Suites, understanding the “Weight Concept” versus the “Piece Concept” is critical.
Quick Summary: Baggage Allowance at a Glance
Singapore Airlines uses two different systems depending on where you are flying.
For most of the world, they use weight limits. For flights to/from the USA and Canada, they count the number of bags.
| Class of Travel | Weight Concept (Most Destinations) | Piece Concept (USA & Canada) | Carry-On Allowance |
| Suites / First | 50 kg (110 lbs) | 2 pieces (32kg / 70lbs each) | 2 pieces (7kg each) |
| Business | 40 kg (88 lbs) | 2 pieces (32kg / 70lbs each) | 2 pieces (7kg each) |
| Prem. Economy | 35 kg (77 lbs) | 2 pieces (23kg / 50lbs each) | 1 piece (7kg) |
| Economy (Flexi) | 30 kg (66 lbs) | 2 pieces (23kg / 50lbs each) | 1 piece (7kg) |
| Economy (Lite) | 25 kg (55 lbs) | 2 pieces (23kg / 50lbs each) | 1 piece (7kg) |
Carry-On Baggage Rules
Singapore Airlines is relatively strict regarding cabin baggage. Regardless of your class, the maximum weight per individual piece of carry-on luggage is 7kg (15.4 lbs).
Allowances by Class
- Economy & Premium Economy: 1 bag (up to 7kg).
- Suites, First & Business: 2 bags (up to 7kg each).
Size Limits
The sum of the length, width, and height of each piece must not exceed 115cm. If your bag looks bulky, ground staff may weigh it or ask you to check it in.
The “Personal Item” Bonus
In addition to your main cabin bag, you are allowed one personal item free of charge. This includes:
- Ladies’ handbag
- Camera bag
- Laptop bag (must be slim/satchel style)
- Document bag
Note: The combined dimensions of your personal item must not exceed 80cm (40x30x10cm). If it’s too large, it counts towards your main allowance.
Checked Baggage: Weight vs. Piece Concept
This is where most travelers get confused. The rules change entirely based on your destination.
The Weight Concept (Most of the World)
For flights that do not touch the USA or Canada, you are bound by total weight.
- No bag limit: You can check in as many bags as you like, as long as the total combined weight stays within your class allowance (e.g., 30kg for Economy Flexi).
- Max weight per bag: No single bag can weigh more than 32kg due to health and safety regulations.
The Piece Concept (USA & Canada)
If your itinerary includes the US or Canada, you are bound by the number of bags.
- Economy/Premium Economy: 2 bags max, up to 23kg each.
- Business/First: 2 bags max, up to 32kg each.
- Dimensions: The sum of length + width + height must not exceed 158cm (62 inches).
Elite Status & Membership Benefits
If you are a frequent flyer, your allowance increases significantly. These bonuses apply on top of your ticketed allowance.
PPS Club Members
- Weight Concept: Extra 100% allowance (e.g., +50kg in First, +30kg in Economy).
- Piece Concept: 2 additional checked bags.
KrisFlyer Elite Gold / Star Alliance Gold
- Weight Concept: Extra 20kg.
- Piece Concept: 1 additional checked bag.
KrisFlyer Elite Silver
- Weight Concept: Extra 10kg.
- Piece Concept: 1 additional checked bag.
Excess Baggage Fees
Exceeding your limit is costly. Singapore Airlines charges based on “Bands” (geographic zones).
Weight Concept Fees
Fees are charged per kilogram.
- Band 1 to Band 1 (Short haul): Approx. $12 USD per kg.
- Band 1 to Band 5 (Long haul): Can range up to $40+ USD per kg.
Piece Concept Fees (Americas)
Fees are charged per extra bag or for overweight items.
- Extra Piece: Approx. $120 – $350 USD depending on the route.
- Overweight Fee: Charging applies if a bag exceeds 23kg (in Economy) but is under 32kg.
Pro Tip: Pre-purchase your excess baggage online. Buying extra allowance more than 48 hours before your flight can save you up to 25% off airport rates. Purchasing between 48 and 6 hours before departure saves you 10%.
Special Items and Restrictions
Sporting Equipment
Items like golf clubs, surfboards, and bicycles are accepted.
- They count towards your standard checked baggage allowance.
- If they push you over your weight/piece limit, excess baggage fees apply.
- No item can exceed 32kg or typical dimension limits (200cm x 75cm x 80cm) without special cargo arrangement.
Musical Instruments
- Small instruments: Can be carried on if they fit within standard cabin baggage dimensions (115cm/7kg).
- Larger instruments: Must be checked in or placed on an extra purchased seat (e.g., a cello) if it weighs under 40kg.
Prohibited Items
Never pack these in checked or carry-on bags:
- Personal transportation devices (hoverboards, electric unicycles), even if the battery is removed.
- E-cigarettes/vapes (these are illegal to use/possess in Singapore).
- Loose lithium batteries (must be in carry-on, never checked).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pool my baggage allowance with my travel partner?
Singapore Airlines generally allows baggage pooling for passengers checking in together on the same itinerary. However, no single bag can weigh more than 32kg for safety reasons.
What happens if my carry-on is 1kg overweight?
Singapore Airlines can be strict with the 7kg limit, especially on full flights. While some staff may be lenient with 1kg, it is risky.
You may be forced to check the bag and pay excess fees if you have already used your checked allowance.
Is a laptop bag included in the 7kg limit?
No. You are allowed one distinct “personal item” (like a laptop bag or handbag) in addition to your 7kg main cabin bag. However, the laptop bag must be small (slim profile) and light.
Does my infant get a baggage allowance?
Yes. Infants are entitled to 10kg of checked baggage (Weight Concept) or 1 piece (Piece Concept). You can also check in a fully collapsible stroller and a car seat/carry-cot for free.
Are power banks allowed in checked luggage?
Absolutely not. All power banks and spare lithium batteries must be packed in your carry-on luggage. If found in checked bags, they will be removed and likely destroyed.
Final Thoughts
Always check your ticket to confirm which concept applies to your route. If you think you might pack heavy, purchase excess baggage online at least 48 hours in advance to secure that 25% discount.
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.
