About China Southern Airlines
China Southern Airlines is one of Asia's largest carriers, operating an extensive domestic network across China alongside long-haul international services from Guangzhou and Beijing. Headquartered in Guangzhou, China.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy / Premium Economy | Included on eligible fares; some Economy Light fares may not include checked baggage | Route-dependent and included only on select itineraries | 44 pounds (20 kg) on domestic flights; 1 piece up to 50 pounds (23 kg) on many international itineraries | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Business / First | Free | Included on eligible routes | 66 pounds (30 kg) on domestic Business; up to 70 pounds (32 kg) per piece on many international premium itineraries | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
China Southern uses both weight and piece concepts depending on route. Check the official free baggage allowance for your itinerary.
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official China Southern Airlines baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Guangzhou → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm), 5 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 20-23 kg by fare — Included on eligible fares; some Economy Light fares may not include checked baggage
2nd bag: Route-dependent and included only on select itineraries
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Guangzhou → New York (Business Class)
Carry-on: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm), 5 kg max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 30-32 kg by fare — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage
⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.
Excess Baggage Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bag / Per Kg | Domestic routes charge 0.6% of the published adult Economy fare per kilogram; international excess fees vary by route and piece concept | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | lower prepaid baggage prices on eligible routes | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | Oversize and overweight charges depend on route, fare, and whether the itinerary uses weight or piece concept | Per bag exceeding standard weight |
💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
- Prepay online: Book extra baggage through China Southern Airlines's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
- Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
- Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
- Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
- Join Sky Pearl Club: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
China Southern Airlines accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.
Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.
Sky Pearl Club elite members may receive extra baggage benefits on eligible itineraries
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Prepaid baggage can reduce excess baggage costs on supported routes
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Oversize and special baggage rules apply to sporting equipment and other non-standard items
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference
Musical Instruments
- Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
- Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
- Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
- Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight
Sports Equipment
- Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
- Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
- Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
- Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length
Hub Airports
Compare China Southern Airlines With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.