Traveling with Icelandair to the beautiful island nation of Iceland or other international destinations requires understanding their baggage policies. Whether you’re preparing for a long-haul flight or a quick getaway, the Icelandair baggage allowance can vary depending on your ticket type, fare class, and route. Knowing the rules beforehand will not only help you avoid surprise fees but also ensure a smoother and more comfortable travel experience.
This guide provides you with everything you need to know about Icelandair baggage allowance, from carry-on to checked baggage, including tips to save money and ensure your luggage complies with the airline’s regulations. Let’s dive in!
Icelandair’s Baggage Policy Overview
Icelandair offers clear guidelines for travelers, but the baggage allowance varies based on the fare class and ticket type. Here’s a general breakdown of the baggage options available on Icelandair flights:
- Carry-On Baggage: Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item.
- Checked Baggage: The checked baggage allowance depends on the fare type and class of service.
- Additional Charges: There are extra fees for overweight baggage, oversized luggage, and additional bags.
- Special Baggage: Icelandair accommodates items like sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets, with special rules for each.
Let’s explore each category in more detail so you can pack accordingly and avoid any surprises.
Carry-On Baggage: What You Need to Know
Carry-on luggage is often the first consideration for passengers when packing for a flight. Icelandair’s carry-on baggage policies are straightforward, but it’s essential to meet the size and weight requirements to avoid extra charges.
Carry-On Allowance
- 1 Carry-On Bag: You are allowed one carry-on bag, which should not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs) in weight. This bag should fit comfortably in the overhead compartment.
- Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on bag, you are also allowed one personal item, such as a small backpack, handbag, or laptop bag. The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you.
- Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for the carry-on bag are 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches). Your personal item should be smaller than this, ideally designed to fit under the seat.
Tips for Packing Carry-On Bags
- Weigh Your Bag: Make sure your carry-on bag doesn’t exceed the 10 kg weight limit. Many airports have self-service scales, and you can use a portable luggage scale at home.
- Maximize Space: Use packing cubes or a well-organized packing strategy to save space and keep your bag under the weight limit.
- Restricted Items: Like most airlines, Icelandair restricts the transport of certain items in carry-on baggage, such as sharp objects, liquids exceeding 100 ml, and flammable items.
Checked Baggage: A Deeper Look
Icelandair’s checked baggage allowance depends on the type of ticket you’ve purchased. Let’s break down the rules for each fare class so you can be prepared.
Economy Class Baggage Allowance
- Basic Fare: Passengers traveling on the Basic fare do not have any checked baggage included in their ticket. If you need checked baggage, you will need to purchase additional allowance. The cost of extra baggage depends on your route and the number of pieces you wish to bring.
- Standard Fare: If you’re flying on the Standard fare, you can bring 1 piece of checked luggage with a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs). This is included in your ticket price.
- Flex Fare: Passengers on the Flex fare are allowed 2 pieces of checked luggage, each with a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs). This is ideal for travelers who need to bring extra baggage.
Saga Premium Class (Business Class)
- 2 pieces of checked luggage, each with a maximum weight of 32 kg (70 lbs), are included for Saga Premium passengers. If you need more than 2 pieces, you can add additional baggage for a fee.
Additional Charges for Extra Bags
If you need to bring more luggage than the allowance provided with your fare class, Icelandair allows you to purchase extra checked baggage. However, be prepared for additional charges:
- Extra Baggage: Additional bags can be purchased, but the cost will depend on your destination and fare class.
- Overweight Bags: If your checked baggage exceeds the weight limit of 23 kg for economy or 32 kg for Saga Premium, you will be charged for overweight luggage. Always check your bags before heading to the airport to avoid these extra costs.
Special Baggage: Traveling with Unique Items
Icelandair is known for being accommodating when it comes to special items like sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. However, special baggage comes with specific rules and additional charges.
Sports Equipment
Icelandair allows you to bring sports equipment as part of your checked luggage. If you’re traveling with items like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, or bicycles, be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Notify Icelandair in Advance: Let the airline know about the special baggage in advance, as some items may require special handling.
- Packaging: Ensure your sports equipment is properly packaged to avoid damage during transit. For example, skis should be packed in protective ski bags.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments are also allowed as carry-on or checked baggage, depending on the size:
- Carry-On: Small instruments like violins and guitars can be brought as carry-on baggage if they meet the size requirements.
- Checked Baggage: Larger instruments should be checked in, but it’s advisable to contact Icelandair in advance to make arrangements.
Traveling with Pets
Icelandair permits pets to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on their size and weight:
- In the Cabin: Pets that weigh under 8 kg (17 lbs), including the carrier, can travel with you in the cabin.
- Checked Baggage: Larger pets can be checked in as cargo, with specific requirements for carriers and booking.
How to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
Excess baggage fees can add up quickly, but with a little planning, you can avoid them. Here are some tips to ensure you stay within Icelandair’s baggage limits:
- Pack Light: Minimize the items you bring, especially in your carry-on. Use packing cubes to optimize space and keep weight down.
- Pre-Purchase Extra Baggage: If you know you’ll need extra baggage, consider purchasing additional allowance when booking your flight, as this can often be cheaper than paying for extra bags at the airport.
- Weigh Your Bags: Weigh your luggage at home or use a portable scale to ensure your bags aren’t overweight.
- Know Your Limits: Familiarize yourself with Icelandair’s baggage policies, including size and weight limits, so you can pack accordingly and avoid any last-minute fees.
Icelandair Baggage Allowance Summary
Here’s a quick summary of the Icelandair baggage allowance:
- Carry-On: 1 carry-on bag up to 10 kg (22 lbs) and 1 personal item (e.g., handbag or laptop bag), with size limits of 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches).
- Checked Baggage:
- Basic Fare: No checked baggage included.
- Standard Fare: 1 piece of checked baggage up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Flex Fare: 2 pieces of checked baggage, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Saga Premium: 2 pieces of checked baggage, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs).
- Special Baggage: Sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets can be accommodated with additional charges.
- Extra Charges: Additional bags, overweight baggage, and oversized items will incur extra fees.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the Icelandair baggage allowance before your trip can help you avoid stress at the airport and ensure your luggage is within the limits. Whether you’re traveling with a small carry-on, checking multiple bags, or bringing special items, understanding the airline’s baggage rules will make your journey much smoother.
By planning ahead and packing efficiently, you can ensure that your trip with Icelandair is comfortable, stress-free, and free of unexpected baggage fees. Safe travels!