About TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal is Portugal's flag carrier and a Star Alliance member, linking Europe with the Americas and Africa through its Lisbon hub. Headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal. The airline is a member of Star Alliance.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | Included on many intercontinental and Classic/Plus fares; not included on some Discount and Basic fares | Route-dependent and usually charged in Economy | 50 pounds (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Business Class | Free | Included on most Business fares | 70 pounds (32 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
TAP checked baggage varies by fare family and route. Always confirm your exact allowance on your booking.
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official TAP Air Portugal baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Lisbon → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm), 10 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 50 pounds (23 kg) — Included on many intercontinental and Classic/Plus fares; not included on some Discount and Basic fares
2nd bag: Route-dependent and usually charged in Economy
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Lisbon → New York (Business Class)
Carry-on: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm), 10 kg 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 | Additional baggage pricing varies by route and fare rather than a universal per-kilogram rate | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | lower online baggage prices than airport rates | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | Bags over 23 kg in Economy or over 32 kg in Business may trigger extra charges or require repacking | 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 TAP Air Portugal'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 TAP Miles&Go: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
TAP Air Portugal 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.
Sports equipment and musical instruments may count toward your allowance or require a special fee
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Miles&Go status can add baggage benefits on eligible bookings
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Extra baggage can be added in advance through Manage Booking
Contact airline for specific requirements.
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