Knowing Philippines Airlines Baggage Policy rules is crucial to avoiding unpleasant surprises when checking in. The main components of PAL's luggage policy will be explained in this article, including what is permitted for carry-on and checked baggage, how the allowance varies according to your route and class, what happens if you exceed the limitations, and some useful advice to help you avoid additional costs.
Carry-On Baggage (also called cabin baggage)
One of the first things to note is what you can bring into the cabin with you, without paying additional fees. For Philippines Airlines:
Passengers are generally allowed one piece of carry-on baggage plus one personal item (for example a handbag, laptop bag or similar).
PAL’s published size limit: The combined dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed about 45 inches / 115 cm.
Weight limit: On many international routes, the carry-on bag must not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs)
Additional items: Beyond the main carry-on, you may also bring items like a laptop with its case, small handbag, coat or blanket, a pair of crutches/walking stick (if needed), etc.
Checked Baggage Allowance — the “free” part
The allowance for checked bags (bags you hand over at check-in) is more complex, because PAL uses different systems depending on route and class of travel. Two main systems apply: a weight-based system (common in Asia, domestic flights) and a piece-based system (common for flights to/from USA/Canada).
1. Weight System (typical for many international and domestic flights)
On many international flights outside the USA/Canada, Economy class passengers may get 20 kg in free checked baggage. For example, flights between Korea-Philippines show an Economy Class allowance of 20kg under the weight system.
Business class (Mabuhay class) may have higher allowance (for example 30 kg, 35 kg) depending on route.
For domestic flights in the Philippines (on smaller regional aircraft), allowances may be smaller (for example 10 kg) or vary depending on fare type.
2. Piece System (for USA/Canada / some long-haul routes)
When PAL flies to/from the USA, Canada and certain destinations, they switch to a “piece” system: you’re allowed a certain number of bags/pieces, each with a weight and size limit. For example:
On flights to/from US/Canada, Economy (Fiesta class) may allow 2 pieces, each up to 50 lb / 23 kg, with maximum size per piece.
Business class may allow 2 pieces, each up to e.g. 32 kg / 70 lb.
Important: Even if you are allowed 2 pieces, each piece cannot exceed the stated weight or dimension. You can’t redistribute the weight unevenly beyond that.
3. Size limits for checked bags
On many routes, the maximum size (sum of length + width + height) for a checked bag is 158 cm / 62 inches for a single piece in the piece-system.
Also, for each individual piece, there is typically a limit of 32 kg (70lb) in weight for safety reasons (so that baggage handlers can lift the bags).
Excess Baggage, Oversize & Overweight Charges
If your baggage exceeds the free allowance (either weight, number of pieces, size or dimensions) then additional charges apply. Here’s how it works with Philippines Airlines:
1. Overweight / Oversize
If a checked bag weighs more than the maximum allowed for a piece (for example more than 32 kg/70lb) it may not be accepted, or you will be asked to repack.
If the dimensions exceed the maximum size, oversize charges or rejection may apply. For example, on the Korea-Philippines route, if the sum of dimensions exceeds 277 cm then 200% of the excess baggage charge applies.
2. Excess Weight / Additional Piece
If you bring one more piece than allowed or exceed the total weight allowance for your class/route, you will incur excess baggage fees. For example, for flights from the Philippines to Las Vegas, Los Angeles or San Francisco, PAL lists rates such as USD $200 for certain travel periods.
Always check for your specific route, because rates differ widely depending on origin/destination and date.
3. Prepaid Baggage
On some routes (especially the Korea-Philippines example) PAL offers “prepaid baggage” where you pay ahead of time to increase your allowance by blocks of weight (e.g., +5 kg) before departure. If you pack less than that paid amount you will not get a refund for the unused portion.
Prepaid baggage is non-transferable and non-refundable if you voluntarily cancel or reroute your flight.
Key Tips & Best Practice for Passengers
To travel smoothly and avoid surprises with the baggage policy of PAL, here are some practical tips:
Check your route & fare class: Before travel, log in to PAL’s website (or your booking) and check “Baggage allowance” specifically for your flight segment(s). Because allowance differs by origin, destination, class, fare-type and even aircraft type.
Weigh and measure your bags: Use a bathroom or luggage scale to measure weight and dimensions ahead of time. If you have more than one checked bag, remember that each piece in the piece-system cannot exceed the per-piece weight or size.
Re-pack if needed: If a bag exceeds the per-piece weight (e.g., 32 kg) you might avoid a fee or refusal by redistributing items into a second bag if your booking allows 2 bags.
Prepay extra baggage where available: If you know you’ll need more than the free allowance, pre-purchase extra kilos or pieces where PAL allows it (check online or via call centre). This tends to be cheaper than paying at the airport.
Pack smart for special items: If you travel with sports equipment, musical instruments, pets or fragile items check the rules early: special packing or preparation may be required, and extra fees may apply.
Know the cabin baggage limits: Many passengers focus on checked baggage but overlook cabin baggage restrictions. A too-large or too-heavy carry-on can cause unnecessary check-in and fees.
Budget for excess baggage: If you exceed allowance, expect to pay. For example, for some USA flights from the Philippines, excess baggage is USD 150-200 for certain routes.
At check-in, be polite and clear: If you are near or slightly above the limit, you might ask the check-in agent for options (for example combining two bags or redistributing weight) but this isn’t guaranteed. Online forums suggest stricter rules apply on international flights.
Conclusion
The luggage policy of Philippine Airlines is intended to provide passengers with flexibility and clarity; nonetheless, regulations differ significantly depending on the route, class, and kind of fare. You can prevent unforeseen airport expenses by being aware of cabin restrictions, weight or piece-based allowances, and extra baggage penalties. You can guarantee a seamless, stress-free travel experience with Philippine Airlines by making advance plans, weighing your bags, and reviewing particular route rules.