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 | Excess baggage pricing varies by route and fare rather than a universal per-kilogram rate. | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Online baggage fees are lower 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 incur 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
Hub Airports
Compare TAP Air Portugal With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.