*Article updated August 2019. Prices, dimensions and information correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change and/or availability. Always check with the airline before flying
Cathay Pacific carry on baggage allowance: size, weight and fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathay Pacific carry on bag size | Cathay Pacific carry on baggage weight allowance | Number of bags allowed onboard | Cost to check in oversized carry on baggage |
| Maximum 56cm x 36cm x 23cm including handles and wheels | Maximum 7kg Economy and Premium Economy, 10kg in Business, 15kg in First | One carry on bag per passenger, plus one other small item | Free, as long as it falls within your free baggage allowance |
Cathay Pacific hold baggage allowance: size, weight and fees | |||
| Cathay Pacific hold baggage size | Cathay Pacific hold baggage weight allowance | Number of hold bags allowed | Cost of Cathay Pacific hold baggage |
| Maximum 203cm (L+W+H) | Between 30kg and 70kg depending on the fare type and Marco Polo Club membership tier | Between 2 and 4 pieces depending on the fare type and Marco Polo Club membership tier. Maximum 32kg per piece | Excess baggage fees vary depending on the departure airport, from around Dh55 per kilo |
How much baggage can I check in on Cathay Pacific?
On most flights, including the Dubai to the Philippines route, you get 30kg in Economy, maximum 2 bags per passenger. The allowance is 35kg in Premium Economy, 40kg in Business and 50kg in First, with a maximum of 3 pieces.
Does an infant get a baggage allowance?
Yes, the Cathay Pacific baggage rules give infants under 2 a carry on baggage allowance of 10kg, as well as a stroller and car seat. If you’ve bought a seat for your infant, they’ll be entitled to the same baggage allowance as an adult.
Can I buy extra baggage?
Yes, and it’s definitely worth it if it means avoiding excess baggage fees at the airport. The fees are worked out according to where you’re flying to and from, and countries are split into zones. Here are some examples:
- Dubai to Manila (and Manila to Dubai) – $30 per kilo
- Hanoi to Colombo – $20 per kilo
- UAE to UK – $65 per kilo
What size suitcase can I take on Cathay Pacific?
The biggest bag you can take on a Cathay Pacific flight is 203cm in total dimension (width + height + length) and the maximum weight is 32kg.
How to get the most from the Cathay Pacific baggage allowance
1. Join the club
The Marco Polo Club is the Cathay Pacific loyalty program that offers rewards to its frequent flyers. There are four tiers: green, silver, gold and diamond, and the higher the tier, the greater the benefits. If you’re a silver member, you get 40kg of baggage (maximum 2 pieces) in Economy, and 50kg in Business (that’s 10kg more than normal). Gold and Diamond members get even more – up to 20kg more than the normal Cathay Pacific baggage allowances.
2. Don’t forget your handbag
Regardless of the class you’re flying in Cathay Pacific allows passengers to bring one small item on board, as well as the usual cabin luggage. The maximum dimensions of the small item should be no more than 15cm x 30cm x 40cm, and able to fit under the seat in front of you. The weight of the bag/laptop case/camera bag is included in the carry on baggage allowance so you won’t be able to stuff it full of heavy items, but it’ll be handy for lighter items.
3. Go miniature
Don’t pack your cases with normal-sized items such as shampoos and conditioners, or other bulkier things like hairdryers or irons. Instead, buy a travel iron or mini hairdryer and just pick up the other things when you land at the other end; very few places don’t have stores in airports where you can purchase basics.
6. Upgrade your ticket
The Cathay Pacific baggage rules give you much more weight in Business (50kg) than in Economy (30kg). If this is your priority, upgrade your ticket. While the cost is obviously more, it might still come in cheaper than paying for lots of excess baggage at the airport.
5. Weigh your luggage
One of the best travel accessories you can buy is a digital luggage weigh scale. If you use it before you fly you shouldn’t be caught out with excess baggage fees at the airport. Top tip: take it with you on your trip and use it to make sure all that holiday shopping doesn’t tip you over the scales. Most digital scales can weigh bags up to 50kg.
