About Thai Airways
Thai Airways International is the flag carrier of Thailand. A founding member of the Star Alliance, it operates from its hub at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to destinations across Asia, Europe and beyond. Headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand. 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 | Free | Included if within total weight | 66 pounds (30 kg) total | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Business (Royal Silk) | Free | Free | 88 pounds (40 kg) total | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| First (Royal First) | Free | Free | 110 pounds (50 kg) total | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
Weight concept: 30 kg total allowance
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Thai Airways baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Bangkok → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm), 7 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 66 pounds (30 kg) — Included
2nd bag: Included if within total weight
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Bangkok → Tokyo (Business Class)
Carry-on: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm), 7 kg max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 88 pounds (40 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 | THB 350-700 per kg (varies by route) | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Save up to 30% when prepaying online | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | THB 3,000-6,000 for bags over the weight limit | 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 Thai Airways'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 Royal Orchid Plus: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Thai Airways 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: golf and dive gear accepted
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Musical instruments: special handling available
Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.
Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase
Royal Orchid Plus: extra allowance based on status
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Thai hospitality service on board
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 Thai Airways With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.