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. As a full-service carrier, PAL offers different baggage allowances depending on your fare class and route.
Understanding PAL’s baggage policy is essential for avoiding unexpected fees at the airport. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about PAL baggage in 2026: cabin baggage rules, checked baggage by fare type and route, excess baggage fees, sports equipment, lost baggage claims, 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)
- Domestic excess: PHP 400/kg at airport
- Prepaid baggage: Save up to 45% vs airport rates
- Max single bag weight: 32 kg
- Pre-book deadline: Up to 4 hours before departure
- 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.
PAL Airlines Cabin Baggage (Hand Luggage) Allowance
PAL allows all passengers one carry-on bag plus one personal item. Both items must comply with size and weight limits.
Source: PAL Baggage Information
| 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
Strictness: PAL is moderately strict. Bags are typically weighed at the gate during busy travel periods. Being 1–2 kg over may be tolerated, but significantly overweight bags will be checked with fees.
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
PAL Airlines Checked Baggage — Domestic Flights
PAL uses a weight system for domestic flights. Free baggage allowance (FBA) varies by fare type.
Source: PAL Domestic Baggage
| Fare Type | Free Checked Baggage |
| Economy Supersaver | 0 kg (no free bag) |
| Economy Saver | 10 kg |
| Economy Value | 20 kg |
| Economy Flex | 20 kg |
| Comfort Class | 25 kg |
| Business Value | 30 kg |
| Business Flex | 35 kg |
Important exception: Basco, Batanes route — Economy Flex/Value only gets 10 kg (not 20 kg).
Per-piece limit: Max 32 kg per bag, max 158 cm (62 in) linear dimensions.
PAL Airlines Checked Baggage — International Flights
Asia and Pacific Routes (Weight System)
| Cabin Class | Free Baggage | Max Per Piece |
| Economy | 30 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
| Premium Economy | 35 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
| Business | 40 kg | 32 kg (70 lbs) |
Note: Economy Supersaver fares may have no free checked bag on select Asian/Pacific destinations.
North America, Guam, Saipan (Piece System)
| Cabin Class | Free Baggage | Max Per Piece |
| Economy | 2 pieces | 23 kg (50 lbs) each |
| Premium Economy | 2 pieces | 25 kg (55 lbs) each |
| Business | 2 pieces | 32 kg (70 lbs) each |
Middle East (Piece System)
| Cabin Class | Free Baggage |
| Economy (all fare types) | 2 pieces x 23 kg each |
| Premium Economy | 2 pieces x 25 kg each |
| Business | 2 pieces x 32 kg each |
Important: You CANNOT consolidate weight across pieces on piece-system routes.
PAL 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 System Routes
| Route | Excess Per Piece | Overweight (23.1–32 kg) | Overweight + Oversized |
| US (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 |
| Dammam/Riyadh | USD 160/SAR 600 | Same | 2x rate |
Prepaid Baggage (myPAL Baggage Plus): Online vs Airport
PAL offers significant discounts for pre-purchasing baggage online through myPAL Baggage Plus.
Source: PAL Prepaid Baggage
Domestic Prepaid Rates (Effective February 26, 2026)
| Allowance | Prepaid Rate (All Channels) | 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 | — | — |
Key savings: Prepaid 20 kg costs PHP 1,100 vs PHP 2,000 at the airport — saving PHP 900 (45% cheaper).
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
Special Baggage: Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments
Source: PAL Special Baggage
Sports Equipment Fees
| Equipment | Piece System Fee | Weight System 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/Wakeboard (under 109 in) | 100% of EBC | Included in weight allowance |
| Surfboard/Wakeboard (over 109 in) | 200% of EBC | Same |
| Bicycle (non-motorized) | Standard EBC after FBA | Standard EBC after FBA |
| Fishing equipment | Standard EBC after FBA | Standard EBC |
| 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
PAL 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.
4. Submit claims— Email to baggage_claims@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
PAL Airlines Infant and Child Baggage
Infants (Under 2, Not Occupying Seat)
| Route | Checked Baggage | Carry-On |
| Domestic | No allowance | No allowance |
| Asia/Japan/Pacific/Middle East/Europe | 1 piece, max 10 kg | 1 piece, max 7 kg |
| US/Canada | 1 piece, max 7 kg (carry-on or checked) | — |
| Guam/Saipan | 1 piece, max 7 kg | 1 piece, max 7 kg |
| Japan routes | 1 piece, max 23 kg | — |
Free Extras for Infants
- 1 fully collapsible stroller OR
- 1 infant carrying basket OR
- 1 car seat (subject to space availability)
Children (2–12 Years)
- Domestic: No discount on fare
- International: 25% discount on adult fare
- When child fare applies, child gets same FBA as accompanying adult
- Infant on lap fare: 90% discount based on accompanying adult’s fare
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 | Baggage Benefit |
| Classic | Free to join | Earn/redeem miles only |
| Elite | 25,000 Tier Miles or 30 qualifying flights | +10 kg on weight-system routes |
| Premier Elite | 45,000 Tier Miles or 50 qualifying flights | Additional baggage allowance |
| Million Miler | 1,000,000 cumulative Tier Miles | Lifetime Premier Elite privileges + enhanced baggage |
Elite members also get: Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.
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
- Baggage policy follows the operating carrier’s rules
- Check-through only applies if entire journey is under one ticket/conjunction
- If separate tickets, EBC of USD 5/kg may apply for check-through
- PAL was invited to join oneworld Alliance (June 2026) — future codeshare baggage policies may change
Group Booking Baggage Rules
- Pooling of baggage is allowed for passengers traveling together on the same flight, same time, same date, checking in simultaneously
- Each passenger’s individual FBA still applies
- Group bookings follow standard fare-family baggage rules
OFW and Balikbayan Box Baggage
- Standard baggage allowance applies based on fare class
- Balikbayan boxes are typically checked as regular baggage
- If they exceed FBA, standard excess baggage rates apply
- No specific separate OFW baggage category — same rules as other passengers
- Prepaid baggage can be purchased for extra allowance
PAL Airlines Student Baggage
- No specific student baggage discount identified in current policies
- Students should use the standard fare-class allowances
- Consider Economy Saver or Flex fares for included checked baggage
- Prepaid baggage at discounted rates is available to all passengers
Tips to Avoid PAL Airlines Baggage Fees
1. Choose the right fare— Economy Supersaver = no free bag. Economy Saver/Flex = included bags.
2. Pre-purchase online— myPAL Baggage Plus saves up to 45% vs airport rates.
3. Weigh bags at home— PHP 400/kg adds up fast on domestic routes.
4. Don’t consolidate sports gear— Assessed under separate fee structure.
5. Declare valuables— USD 1/$100 declaration protects high-value items.
6. Remove lithium batteries from checked bags— Prevents bags being held/denied.
7. Use Manage My Booking— Upgrade prepaid baggage up to 4 hours before flight.
8. Check your ticket— FBA is printed on each ticket segment.
PAL 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 PAL Airlines Baggage
1. Does Economy Supersaver include checked baggage?
Generally NO on international routes. On domestic routes, it’s 0 kg. Always check your ticket.
2. Can I pool baggage with family on PAL?
No, each passenger’s FBA applies individually. Exception: groups checking in together can pool for Airport Baggage purchase.
3. What if my bag exceeds 32 kg on PAL?
It will NOT be accepted. Must be repacked before check-in.
4. Is prepaid baggage refundable on PAL?
Non-refundable, except if PAL cancels your flight and you choose not to rebook.
5. Can I upgrade prepaid baggage on PAL?
Yes, up to 4 hours before departure, up to max 50 kg (domestic). Rate difference applies.
6. What are my rights if PAL baggage is delayed?
~PHP 2,000/24 hours first-need allowance. File PIR immediately at airport.
7. How much is PAL excess baggage for domestic flights?
PHP 400/kg at the airport. Prepaid rates are significantly cheaper.
8. What is the PAL cabin baggage limit?
1 carry-on (7 kg) + 1 personal item, max 56 x 36 x 23 cm.
9. How much is PAL 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 PAL 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 PAL?
Golf clubs, skis, surfboards, bicycles are accepted. Fees vary by equipment and route.
12. How do I claim lost baggage on PAL?
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 PAL?
International: Montreal Convention ~USD 2,200. Domestic: ~PHP 2,000/24 hours first-need.
14. Can I add baggage after booking on PAL?
Yes. Log into Manage My Booking at philippineairlines.com. Pre-book up to 4 hours before departure.
15. How much is PAL 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 PAL excess baggage for Australia routes?
Weight system: USD 24/kg from Manila, AUD 35/kg to Manila.
18. What items are prohibited on PAL?
Hoverboards, e-cigarettes in checked baggage, power banks in checked baggage, explosives, flammable liquids.
19. What is the PAL 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 PAL?
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:
- PAL Carry-On Baggage — Cabin rules
- PAL Checked Baggage — Checked bag policies
- PAL Special Baggage — Sports equipment, musical instruments
- PAL Baggage Information — Main baggage hub
- PAL Fees and Charges — Fee schedules
- PAL Baggage Claims — Claims process
- PAL 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 and route. The key takeaway is that Economy Supersaver fares on both domestic and international routes often include zero checked baggage, while higher fare classes include generous allowances of 20–40 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 up to 45% compared to airport rates. Always check your exact allowance through your booking confirmation or the PAL website, as it varies based on your fare type and route.
Travelling with Philippine Airlines soon? Fly Search Engine Pro provides comprehensive travel assistance including flight bookings, baggage guidance, and visa services. Contact us for expert help with your PAL journey.
