Baggage Limits
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Emirates Baggage Policy

UAE UAE 5-Star Skytrax EK / UAE

About Emirates

Emirates is a Dubai-based full-service airline known for its long-haul network and premium onboard service. Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on Bag

Dimensions 22 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 38 x 20 cm)
Weight 15 pounds (7 kg) for Economy, 22 pounds (10 kg) for Business/First
Must fit in overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Personal Item

Dimensions Not specified separately
Weight Included in carry-on allowance
Handbag, laptop bag, or briefcase

Checked Baggage Allowance

Class First Bag Second Bag Weight Dimensions
Economy Included in fare (weight concept) Included if within total weight allowance 50 pounds (23 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)
Business/First Included in fare (weight concept) Included if within total weight allowance 70 pounds (32 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)

Additional Bags & Notes

Total allowance: 66-77 pounds (30-35 kg) depending on route

💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Emirates baggage page before traveling.

Example Baggage Scenarios

Dubai → London (Economy)

Carry-on: 22 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 38 x 20 cm), 7-10 kg by cabin max
Checked bag: 1 piece 50 pounds (23 kg) — Included in fare (weight concept)
2nd bag: Included if within total weight allowance
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport

Dubai → Sydney (Business Class)

Carry-on: 22 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 38 x 20 cm), 7-10 kg by cabin max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 70 pounds (32 kg) — 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 $20-45 depending on route Varies by route and booking time
Prepaid Discount Save up to 20% when booking online Book online before departure to save
Overweight (23-32kg) $75-150 per bag over 32kg 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 Emirates'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 Emirates Skywards: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.

Special Items & Equipment

Emirates 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.

Sporting equipment: Counted as part of baggage allowance

Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.

Size Max 300cm linear (L+W+H)
Fee €50-150 per item
Booking 48-72h ahead

Must be properly packed in protective bag/case

Musical instruments: Special handling procedures

Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.

Size Cabin: max 80cm length; Checked: max 32kg
Fee €0-200 (extra seat for large items)
Booking 48-72h ahead

Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase

Infant baggage: 22 pounds (10 kg) extra allowance

Contact airline for specific requirements.

Size Varies
Fee Contact airline
Booking 48-72h ahead

Pre-booking recommended

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does checked baggage cost on Emirates?
On Emirates, Economy class first checked bag costs Included in fare (weight concept) (max 50 pounds (23 kg), 62 linear inches (158 cm)). Second bag: Included if within total weight allowance. Business Class: first bag Included in fare (weight concept) (max 70 pounds (32 kg)). Save up to 20% when booking online.
What are the carry-on size limits for Emirates?
Carry-on bags on Emirates must not exceed 22 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 38 x 20 cm). Weight limit is 15 pounds (7 kg) for Economy, 22 pounds (10 kg) for Business/First. In addition, you can bring one personal item that fits under the seat. The airline does not publish a separate size limit for this item. Oversized bags will need to be checked at the gate.
Can I bring a personal item in addition to carry-on?
Yes, Emirates allows one personal item (handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack) in addition to your main carry-on. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you, but the airline does not publish a separate size limit.
What liquids can I bring in my carry-on?
Following international aviation rules, liquids in carry-on must be in containers of 100ml or less, all fitting in a single transparent 1-liter resealable bag. This includes gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols. Exceptions apply for baby food, medications, and duty-free purchases in sealed bags.
How do I avoid excess baggage fees?
Tips to avoid extra fees on Emirates: Weigh your bags at home before departure. Save up to 20% when booking online. Wear heavy items like coats and boots. Use compression bags for clothes. Join Emirates Skywards for elite baggage benefits.
Can I bring sports equipment or musical instruments?
Emirates accepts sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, surfboards, bicycles) and musical instruments as checked or cabin baggage with special conditions. Large instruments may require a separate seat purchase. Contact Emirates directly at least 48 hours before departure to arrange transport and confirm fees.
What items are prohibited in checked baggage?
Prohibited items in Emirates checked baggage include: lithium batteries over 100Wh, flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases, and valuable items (jewelry, electronics, cash, important documents). These should be carried in your cabin bag or left at home. Check Emirates's dangerous goods policy for the complete list.

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