Airline Baggage Allowance Decoded: What You Can Actually Bring

Baggage policies vary wildly between airlines, and the rules feel deliberately confusing—until you break them down. Nearly every airline uses a combination of checked baggage allowances, carry-on limits, and weight restrictions. Knowing how your specific airline's system works can save you money, stress, and last-minute repacking at the airport.

The Three Rules

• Checked baggage: Usually 20-30kg per bag, with limits on the number of bags. Budget carriers might allow one bag free; premium carriers might allow two or three. Check your booking confirmation.
• Carry-on: Typically one small personal item (backpack, laptop bag) plus one larger roller bag or cabin-sized trolley. Weight limits are usually 7-10kg, though enforcement varies.
• Special items: Sports equipment, musical instruments, and mobility aids often have separate allowances. Ask your airline if you're travelling with anything outside the ordinary.

Excess baggage fees are steep—often 5,000-15,000 LKR per kilogram or per bag depending on the airline. The cheapest solution is packing smart: weigh your bags at home using a bathroom scale, consolidate items, and wear your bulkiest clothing on the flight. If you're genuinely over limit, paying a baggage fee in advance online is usually cheaper than at the airport.