Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the Philippines’ flag carrier and oldest commercial airline, operating flights to 31 domestic and 40+ international destinations across Asia, North America, the Middle East, and Oceania. In June 2026, PAL received an invitation to join the oneworld Alliance, marking a significant milestone for the carrier.
Understanding Philippine Airlines’ baggage policy is essential for avoiding unexpected fees at the airport. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Philippine Airlines baggage in 2026: cabin baggage rules, checked baggage by fare type and route, excess baggage fees, sports equipment, lost baggage claims, Mabuhay Miles benefits, and tips to save money.
Source: All information in this article is sourced from the official Philippine Airlines baggage pages at philippineairlines.com and verified as of August 2026. Airline rules and fees can change without notice — always confirm your specific allowance before travel.
Quick Answer
- Cabin baggage: 1 carry-on (7 kg) + 1 personal item, max 56 x 36 x 23 cm
- Domestic (Supersaver): 0 kg checked
- Domestic (Saver): 10 kg checked
- Domestic (Value/Flex): 20 kg checked
- Domestic (Comfort): 25 kg checked
- Domestic (Business): 30–35 kg checked
- International Asia/Pacific: 30 kg Economy, 35 kg Premium, 40 kg Business
- International US/Canada: 2 pieces (23 kg each Economy, 32 kg each Business)
- International Japan/Middle East: Piece concept — 2 pieces per passenger
- Domestic excess: PHP 400/kg at airport
- Prepaid baggage: Save 60–70% on domestic routes
- Max single bag weight: 32 kg
- Pre-book deadline: Up to 4 hours before departure
- Mabuhay Miles Elite: +10 kg extra baggage
- Check your allowance: philippineairlines.com
Disclaimer: Baggage allowances and fees are subject to change. This guide was last verified on August 28, 2026, against philippineairlines.com. Always check your booking confirmation for the most current information.
Philippine Airlines Cabin Baggage (Hand Luggage) Allowance
Philippine Airlines allows all passengers one carry-on bag plus one personal item. Both items must comply with size and weight limits. PAL is moderately strict — bags are typically weighed at the gate during busy travel periods at Manila (NAIA).
Source: PAL Carry-On Baggage
| Item | Max Dimensions | Weight |
| Carry-on bag | 56 x 36 x 23 cm (22 x 14 x 9 in) | 7 kg (15 lbs) combined |
| Personal item (purse, laptop bag) | 45 x 35 x 20 cm (18 x 14 x 8 in) | Included in 7 kg |
Additional Free Items (Not Counted)
- Medical assistive devices
- Small musical instruments (if within size)
- Camera or binoculars
- Power strips
- Overcoat, blanket, wrap
- Duty-free shopping bag
- Infant food for in-flight use
Enforcement: PAL strictly enforces the 7 kg limit at Manila (NAIA) — bags may be weighed at the gate. If carry-on exceeds limits at the gate, it will be checked and excess baggage fees apply.
Cabin Baggage: Liquids, Electronics and Power Banks
Liquids Rule (LAGs)
- Each container max 100 ml
- All containers in 1 transparent resealable plastic bag (max 1 liter)
- 1 bag per passenger
- Present separately at security
Power Banks (Updated April 17, 2026)
| Capacity | Rule |
| Up to 100 Wh | Allowed in carry-on only, no approval needed |
| 101–160 Wh | Carry-on only, max 2, airline approval required |
| Over 160 Wh | Banned entirely |
Key rules:
- Max 2 power banks per passenger
- Must be in carry-on only — never checked
- Not in overhead bins — keep on person, seat pocket, or under seat
- No charging power banks during flight (including taxi/takeoff/landing)
- Pack individually to prevent short circuits (tape terminals or use original packaging)
E-Cigarette Policy
- E-cigarettes, vapes, e-cigars, e-pipes must be in carry-on only
- Prohibited in checked baggage
- Use of e-cigarettes onboard is not permitted
- Recharging e-cigarettes onboard is not permitted
Philippine Airlines Checked Baggage — Domestic Flights
Philippine Airlines uses a weight system for domestic flights. Free baggage allowance (FBA) varies by fare type.
Source: PAL Baggage Allowance
| Fare Type | Free Checked Baggage | Mileage Accrual | Change Fee | Refund |
| Economy Supersaver | 0 kg (no free bag) | 10% | Non-changeable | Non-refundable |
| Economy Saver | 10 kg | 50% | PHP 1,500 + fare diff | PHP 2,300 |
| Economy Value | 20 kg | 75% | PHP 1,000 + fare diff | PHP 2,000 |
| Economy Flex | 20 kg | 100% | PHP 500 + fare diff | Free |
| Comfort Class | 25 kg | 115% | Free | PHP 1,000 |
| Business Value | 30 kg | 125% | PHP 500 + fare diff | — |
| Business Flex | 35 kg | 150% | Free | Free |
Important exception: Basco, Batanes route — Economy Flex/Value passengers only get 10 kg (not 20 kg).
Per-piece limit: Max 32 kg per bag, max 158 cm (62 in) linear dimensions.
Philippine Airlines Checked Baggage — International Flights
Asia and Pacific Routes (Weight Concept)
| Cabin Class | Free Baggage | Max Per Piece |
| Economy (Saver and above) | 30 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
| Premium Economy | 35 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
| Business (Promo/Classic) | 40 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
| Business (Flex) | 35 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
Exceptions:
- Korea routes: Economy = 20 kg (not 30 kg)
- Beijing, Shanghai, Xiamen, Jinjiang: Allowances vary by fare type
Piece Concept Routes (US, Canada, Guam, Japan, Middle East, Europe)
| Cabin Class | Free Allowance | Max Per Piece |
| Economy Supersaver (long-haul) | 1 piece x 23 kg | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Economy Saver/Value/Flex | 2 pieces x 23 kg | 23 kg |
| Premium Economy | 2 pieces x 25 kg | 25 kg (55 lbs) |
| Business | 2 pieces x 32 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
US/Canada/Guam note: Even Economy Supersaver gets 2 x 23 kg on these routes under US-market rules.
Important: You CANNOT consolidate weight across pieces on piece-system routes.
Route Summary
| Route Type | System | Economy Allowance |
| Domestic Philippines | Weight | 0–25 kg by fare |
| Korea | Weight | 20 kg |
| Asia, Pacific (excl. China/Korea) | Weight | 30 kg |
| Japan, Middle East, Guam, US, Canada, Europe | Piece | 2 pcs x 23 kg |
Philippine Airlines Excess Baggage Fees
Source: PAL Fees and Charges
Domestic Flights
| Route | Fee |
| All domestic routes | PHP 400/kg (VAT inclusive) — effective April 10, 2025 |
Note: Previously PHP 350/kg before April 10, 2025.
International — Asia (Per Kg From Manila)
| Destination | From MNL | To MNL |
| Bangkok | THB 360 | — |
| Beijing | USD 10 | CNY 70 |
| Busan | USD 12 | KRW 15,700 |
| Guangzhou/Xiamen/Jinjiang | USD 8 | CNY 60 |
| Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh/Da Nang | USD 10 | USD 10 |
| Hong Kong | USD 13 | HKD 102 |
| Jakarta/Bali | USD 10 | IDR 149,900 |
| Kuala Lumpur | USD 10 | MYR 44 |
| Seoul | USD 12 | KRW 15,700 |
| Shanghai | USD 10 | CNY 70 |
| Singapore | SGD 14 | — |
| Taipei | TWD 302 | — |
International — Pacific (Per Kg From Manila)
| Destination | From MNL | To MNL |
| Sydney/Brisbane/Melbourne | USD 24 | AUD 35 |
| Port Moresby | USD 16 | PGK 58 |
International — Piece Concept Routes
| Route | Extra Piece | Overweight (23.1–32 kg) | Overweight + Oversized |
| US major cities (LAX, SFO, NYC) | USD 250 | USD 250 | USD 750 |
| Canada (Vancouver/Toronto) | CAD 250 | CAD 250 | CAD 750 |
| Guam/Saipan | USD 225 | USD 225 | USD 675 |
| Japan (all cities) | USD 120 | USD 120 | USD 300 |
| Dubai | AED 590 | AED 590 | AED 1,175 |
| Doha | QAR 590 | QAR 590 | QAR 1,165 |
| Riyadh/Dammam | USD 160 / SAR 600 | Same | 2x rate |
| Europe (London) | USD 150 / GBP 105 | — | — |
Prepaid Baggage (myPAL Baggage Plus): Online vs Airport
Philippine Airlines offers significant discounts for pre-purchasing baggage online through myPAL Baggage Plus.
Source: PAL Prepaid Baggage
Discount Rates by Route
| Route | Discount vs Airport Rate |
| Domestic | 60–70% off |
| Asia | ~20% off |
| Pacific | 40–45% off |
| Piece concept routes | Available (max 23 kg/piece, 2 pieces/pax/sector) |
Domestic Prepaid Rates (Effective February 26, 2026)
| Allowance | Prepaid Rate | Airport Rate | You Save |
| 15 kg | PHP 825 | — | — |
| 20 kg | PHP 1,100 | PHP 2,000 | PHP 900 (45%) |
| 25 kg | PHP 1,375 | — | — |
| 30 kg | PHP 1,650 | — | — |
| 40 kg | PHP 2,200 | — | — |
| 50 kg | PHP 2,750 | — | — |
Prepaid Baggage Rules
- Purchase up to 4 hours before departure (online/phone/office)
- Airport baggage available up to 1 hour before departure
- Max 50 kg per person per sector (domestic)
- Non-refundable (except flight cancellation)
- Non-transferable, non-reroutable
- Pooling allowed for group passengers checking in together
- Not available for Basco, Busuanga, Surigao routes
Special Baggage: Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments
Source: PAL Special Baggage
Sports Equipment Fees
| Equipment | Piece Concept Fee | Weight Concept Fee |
| Golf clubs (1 set) | 50% EBC for 1st extra; 100% for additional | Equivalent of 6 kg EBC |
| Snow skis (1 set) | 25% EBC for 1st extra; 100% for additional | 33% EBC for 1st extra |
| Surfboard under 109 in (277 cm) | 100% of EBC | Included in weight allowance |
| Surfboard over 109 in | 200% of EBC | Same |
| Bicycle (non-motorized) | Standard EBC after FBA | Standard EBC after FBA |
| Fishing equipment | Standard EBC after FBA | — |
| Sleeping bag/bedroll | Counted as 62-in piece | Standard EBC |
Packaging Requirements
- Bicycles: Handlebars fixed sideways, tires deflated, pedals/lamps/mirrors removed
- Golf clubs: Sturdy external container designed for shipping
- Surfboards: Strong outer container for protection
Musical Instruments
- Small instruments (violin, etc.): Can be carry-on if within 56 x 36 x 23 cm and 7 kg
- Guitars: Must be checked — cannot go in overhead bin. Free if within FBA and under 39 in (100 cm)
- Large instruments (cello, etc.): Requires Cabin Seat Baggage — purchase separate seat at 100% of Economy/Premium Economy fare. Max 32 kg, window/center seat only
Philippine Airlines Baggage Restrictions
Carry-On Only (NOT in Checked Baggage)
- Portable electronics (phones, laptops, tablets, cameras)
- Spare lithium batteries under 100 Wh (up to 20)
- Spare lithium batteries 101–160 Wh (max 2, airline approval required)
- Power banks (max 2; must be labeled with Wh/mAh)
- E-cigarettes, vape devices
Checked Baggage Only (NOT as Carry-On)
- Battery-powered wheelchairs/mobility devices
- Alcoholic beverages (retail packaging, 24–70% ABV, max 5L total)
- Ammunition (max 5 kg gross weight)
Banned Entirely
- Hoverboards, electric unicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, mini-segways
- Smart luggage with non-removable batteries over 0.3g lithium metal or 2.7 Wh
- Flammable liquids (lighter refills, paints, thinners)
- Camping stoves with fuel containers
- Explosives, fireworks, flares
- Spare lithium batteries over 160 Wh
Alcohol in Checked Baggage
- Retail packaging only
- 24–70% ABV: Allowed in checked baggage only
- Max 5 liters total per person
- Under 24% ABV: No restrictions
- Over 70% ABV: Prohibited entirely
Lost, Delayed or Damaged Baggage Claims
Source: PAL Baggage Claims
Claim Process
1. File PIR immediately— Visit the Baggage Assistance Counter in the arrival area. Get your reference number.
2. Track status— Use your PIR number to track via PAL’s website.
3. After 7 days if not found— Complete the Baggage Claim Form online.
4. Submit claims— Email to baggage_claims@pal.com.ph or baggageservicesint@pal.com.ph.
Compensation Framework
| Situation | Compensation |
| International flights | Montreal Convention: 1,519 SDRs (~USD 2,200) per passenger |
| Delayed baggage | ~PHP 2,000 per 24 hours for first-need necessities |
| Domestic flights | Governed by local regulations |
Important Timelines
- Damaged baggage claims: Within 7 days of receipt
- Delayed baggage claims: Within 21 days of bag receipt
- Lost baggage (after 21 days): Within 2 years
High-Value Declaration
- Register at check-in counter: USD 1 per USD 100 of declared value
- Maximum declared value: USD 2,500
Philippine Airlines Infant and Child Baggage
| Category | Details |
| Infant (without seat) | Paying 10%+ of adult fare |
| International checked | 1 piece not exceeding 10 kg |
| Domestic checked | No checked baggage for infants |
| US/Canada/Japan/Guam | 1 piece up to 23 kg |
| Stroller/car seat | 1 fully collapsible stroller or infant car seat (subject to space) |
| Carry-on | Follows adult rules (7 kg combined) |
| Child (2–12) | Same FBA as accompanying adult when child fare applies |
Bassinets
- Reserve at least 24 hours before departure
- Available on all aircraft except A320, A321, Bombardier Q300/Q400
- For flights with 3+ hours flying time
- Size: ~70 cm long x 30 cm wide, max 10 kg (suitable up to ~6 months)
Mabuhay Miles Baggage Benefits
| Tier | Qualification | Extra Baggage | Extra Carry-On | Other Benefits |
| Elite | 25,000 Tier Miles or 30 flights | +10 kg (weight routes) | +1 bag | +20 kg sports equipment |
| Premier Elite | 45,000 Tier Miles or 50 flights | +30 kg | +2 bags | Lounge access, priority |
| Million Miler | 1,000,000 cumulative Tier Miles | +40 kg | +2 bags | Lounge + 2 guests |
Key note: Elite members get bonus allowance ON TOP of the fare’s FBA — extra kilos on weight routes, extra piece on piece routes.
OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) Baggage
- Overseas Bayani program: Free subscription-based program for registered OFWs
- Benefits include free baggage allowance uplift (reported as +10 kg “Boletera” uplift on A350/A330/777/A321 fleet)
- Must present OEC or OFW Pass at check-in
- Does not apply to baggage-free base fares or separately ticketed feeder flights
Balikbayan Box Baggage
- Balikbayan boxes are accepted as checked baggage
- Must use thick, high-grade carton for durability
- Styrofoam boxes must be inside sturdy outer carton
- Food/liquid items need bubble wrap or corrugated packaging inside
- Subject to standard FBA and excess baggage charges
oneworld Alliance (Joined June 2026)
- PAL received invitation to join oneworld Alliance on June 6, 2026
- Expected benefits: reciprocal frequent flyer tier recognition, enhanced interline baggage agreements
- Codeshare baggage: when ticket shows “PR” carrier code, present Mabuhay Miles card for additional baggage and lounge access from partner airlines
- Mabuhay Miles integrates with all oneworld member programs
- Access to 700+ airport lounges worldwide
- Full integration expected by 2027
Connecting Flights Baggage Rules
- Each ticket segment has its own FBA — they do not combine
- If domestic FBA is lower than international, PAL may charge excess on the difference
- Manila terminal connections: Baggage may not be checked through to final destination due to CIQ requirements
- Passengers connecting to US, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ must claim and re-clear baggage in Manila
Codeshare and Interline Baggage Rules
- Ensure ticket reflects “PR” in the ticket carrier box
- Present Mabuhay Miles card for tier-based benefits
- Each flight ticket carries its own FBA — connecting flights on different tickets may have different allowances
- Passengers connecting to US, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ must claim and re-screen bags in Manila
Group Booking Baggage Rules
- Each passenger’s FBA applies individually
- No pooling of baggage allowances between passengers
- Group booking baggage policies follow standard fare-based allowances
Tips to Avoid Philippine Airlines Baggage Fees
1. Book the right fare— If you need 20 kg, don’t book Supersaver (0 kg on domestic).
2. Pre-purchase baggage online— myPAL Baggage Plus saves 60–70% on domestic routes.
3. Weigh bags at home— PAL enforces 7 kg cabin limit at Manila (NAIA).
4. Don’t consolidate sports gear— Assessed under separate fee structure.
5. Check each leg on multi-city bookings— Domestic Supersaver may have 0 kg even if international leg includes a bag.
6. Remove lithium batteries from checked bags— Prevents bags being held/denied.
7. Declare valuables at check-in— USD 1/$100 declaration protects high-value items.
8. Use Mabuhay Miles Elite status— For bonus baggage (+10 kg on weight routes).
9. Check the Basco exception— Economy Flex/Value only gets 10 kg on Basco routes.
Philippine Airlines Baggage Policy Changes 2025–2026
| Date | Change |
| April 10, 2025 | Domestic excess baggage fee increased from PHP 350 to PHP 400/kg |
| February 26, 2026 | Updated prepaid baggage rates for domestic flights |
| April 17, 2026 | New power bank rules (max 2, no overhead bin, no charging) per ICAO guidance |
| June 6, 2026 | PAL invited to join oneworld Alliance (full membership expected 2027) |
| July 28, 2026 | Self-service check-in system update for real-time baggage info |
Frequently Asked Questions About Philippine Airlines Baggage
1. Does Philippine Airlines’ cheapest fare include a checked bag?
On long-haul international routes, yes — Supersaver includes 1 x 23 kg (2 x 23 kg on US/CA/GU). On domestic routes, Supersaver = 0 kg.
2. Can I pool baggage with a travel companion on Philippine Airlines?
No. Each passenger’s allowance is individual.
3. What if my bag exceeds 32 kg on Philippine Airlines?
It will not be accepted. You must repack before check-in.
4. Are hoverboards allowed on Philippine Airlines?
No. Banned from both carry-on and checked baggage.
5. Can I bring a guitar as carry-on on Philippine Airlines?
No. All guitars must be checked. Free if under 39 in (100 cm) within your FBA.
6. How many power banks can I bring on Philippine Airlines?
Max 2, each under 100 Wh, carry-on only, no overhead bin storage, no charging during flight.
7. How much is Philippine Airlines excess baggage for domestic flights?
PHP 400/kg at the airport. Prepaid rates are significantly cheaper (60–70% off).
8. What is the Philippine Airlines cabin baggage limit?
1 carry-on (7 kg) + 1 personal item, max 56 x 36 x 23 cm.
9. How much is Philippine Airlines excess baggage for US routes?
Piece system: USD 250 per extra piece. Overweight: USD 250. Overweight + oversized: USD 750.
10. Can I carry a laptop in Philippine Airlines cabin?
Yes, but it counts toward the 7 kg limit. Power banks must be in the cabin (never checked).
11. What sports equipment can I bring on Philippine Airlines?
Golf clubs, skis, surfboards, bicycles are accepted. Fees vary by equipment and route.
12. How do I claim lost baggage on Philippine Airlines?
File a PIR at the airport baggage desk. After 7 days, complete Baggage Claim Form. Email to baggage_claims@pal.com.ph.
13. What is the lost baggage compensation on Philippine Airlines?
International: Montreal Convention ~USD 2,200. Domestic: ~PHP 2,000/24 hours first-need.
14. Can I add baggage after booking on Philippine Airlines?
Yes. Log into Manage My Booking at philippineairlines.com. Pre-book up to 4 hours before departure.
15. How much is Philippine Airlines excess baggage for Japan routes?
Piece system: USD 120 per extra piece. Overweight: USD 120. Overweight + oversized: USD 300.
16. What is Mabuhay Miles Elite baggage benefit?
+10 kg on weight-system routes. Requires 25,000 Tier Miles or 30 qualifying flights.
17. How much is Philippine Airlines excess baggage for Australia routes?
Weight system: USD 24/kg from Manila, AUD 35/kg to Manila.
18. What items are prohibited on Philippine Airlines?
Hoverboards, e-cigarettes in checked baggage, power banks in checked baggage, explosives, flammable liquids.
19. What is the Philippine Airlines business class baggage allowance?
Domestic: 30–35 kg. International Asia/Pacific: 40 kg. International US/Canada: 2 pieces x 32 kg.
20. Can I check a balikbayan box on Philippine Airlines?
Yes, it counts as regular checked baggage. If it exceeds FBA, standard excess baggage rates apply.
Official Sources and Further Reading
This article references the following official Philippine Airlines pages and trusted sources:
- Philippine Airlines Baggage Allowance — Official baggage policies
- PAL Carry-On Baggage — Cabin rules
- PAL Checked Baggage — Checked bag policies
- PAL Special Baggage — Sports equipment, musical instruments
- PAL Fees and Charges — Fee schedules
- PAL Baggage Claims — Claims process
- Mabuhay Miles — Loyalty program benefits
- BaggagePolicies PAL — Third-party verification
- CabinZero PAL Guide — Fee breakdowns
Conclusion
Philippine Airlines’ baggage policy varies significantly by fare class, route, and whether you use the weight or piece concept. The key takeaway is that Economy Supersaver fares on domestic routes include zero checked baggage, while higher fare classes include generous allowances of 20–35 kg. For piece-system routes to the US, Canada, and the Middle East, Economy passengers get 2 pieces of 23 kg each.
The most important tip is to pre-purchase baggage online through myPAL Baggage Plus, where you can save 60–70% on domestic routes compared to airport rates. With PAL joining the oneworld Alliance in 2026, Mabuhay Miles members can expect enhanced benefits including reciprocal lounge access and tier recognition across 700+ lounges worldwide.
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