Pal Airlines Baggage Policy +1-877-491-4448

The Philippines' flag carrier, Pal Airlines Baggage Policy is an essential conduit between the archipelago and the outside world. For millions of domestic and international travelers, knowing PAL's baggage policy is crucial to organizing an affordable and hassle-free trip. Because it serves a wide spectrum of customers, including both business and budget travelers, PAL has developed a comprehensive baggage policy that strikes a balance between passenger needs and operational effectiveness. 
I. The Foundation: Carry-On Baggage Policy

PAL Airlines, like many carriers, allows passengers to bring essential items into the aircraft cabin. These allowances are designed to be convenient for short trips or for storing valuables and necessities during a flight.
Personal Item: Every passenger is permitted one personal item that must fit completely under the seat in front of you. This category typically includes a small handbag, laptop bag, purse, or a small backpack. There are no specific dimensions or weight restrictions for this personal item, but it must not obstruct the aisle or the space of fellow passengers.
Standard Carry-On Bag: In addition to the personal item, passengers can bring one standard carry-on bag into the aircraft cabin. This bag is intended to be stored in the overhead bin.
Size and Weight Restrictions: PAL's policy specifies that the carry-on bag must have dimensions not exceeding 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm (22 in x 14 in x 9 in). Furthermore, it must weigh no more than 7 kg (15 lbs). It is crucial that the bag fits easily into the overhead bin without being forced, as cabin crew will check this at the gate.
Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols (LAGs): The standard international security regulation applies to all carry-on baggage. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100ml (3.4oz) or less. All containers must fit into a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one liter. This bag must be presented separately for inspection at security checkpoints.
Infants: Infants traveling on an adult's lap are generally permitted one standard carry-on bag that adheres to the size and weight limits specified above.

II. Deciphering Checked Baggage Allowances

The checked baggage allowance is where PAL's policy becomes more nuanced, primarily dictated by the cabin class, route type (domestic vs. international), and fare type. PAL typically offers more generous allowances on international routes compared to domestic ones.
General Structure: Allowances are usually defined as a number of pieces, each with a maximum weight.
Domestic Flights within the Philippines: The baggage allowance is generally more restrictive.
Economy Class: Typically 15 kg (33 lbs) per passenger.
Business Class: Typically 20 kg (44 lbs) per passenger.
Infants: One checked bag not exceeding 10 kg (22 lbs).
International Flights:
Economy Class: Typically 20 kg (44 lbs) per passenger.
Business Class: Typically 30 kg (66 lbs) per passenger.
First Class: Typically 40 kg (88 lbs) per passenger.
Infants: One checked bag not exceeding 10 kg (22 lbs), plus a collapsible stroller or car seat.
Etihad Guest Status: PAL's frequent flyer program, Mabuhay Miles, offers enhanced baggage benefits to its members. Silver, Gold, and Platinum members often receive additional checked baggage allowance as one of the key perks of their tier status. For example, a Silver member might get an extra 10kg, while a Platinum member could receive an extra piece of baggage.
Fare Type Impact: Different fare buckets within a cabin (e.g., Economy Saver vs. Economy Flex) can have different inclusions. "Economy Saver" fares might have a lower or no checked baggage allowance, while "Economy Flex" or full-fare Economy typically includes the standard 20kg. Always check your specific fare rules.
Linear Dimensions: Each checked bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches) in total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height). Bags exceeding this but under 300 cm may be accepted as oversized, incurring additional fees.

III. Baggage Fees: Understanding the Costs
Fees are applied when you exceed your free baggage allowance, have overweight or oversized items, or need to purchase baggage not included in your fare.
Overweight Baggage Fees: If a checked bag is within the size limit (158 cm) but exceeds the weight limit for your cabin class (e.g., 23 kg on a 20 kg allowance), an overweight fee applies. These fees vary by route and are charged per kilogram over the limit.
Oversized Baggage Fees: A bag that exceeds the 158 cm linear dimension limit but is under 300 cm is considered oversized. Fees are higher than standard or overweight fees and are charged per piece.
Excess Baggage Fees: If you bring more pieces of baggage than your free allowance permits, you will be charged a fee per extra piece. This fee varies by route and cabin class.
Fees for Non-Included Baggage: If your fare type (like Economy Saver) does not include checked baggage, you can purchase it online or at the airport. Purchasing online is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport counter. Fees also apply for special items like sports equipment.

IV. Special Items: Rules and Procedures
Transporting non-standard items requires specific attention and often incurs additional fees or requires prior approval.
Sports Equipment: PAL has specific guidelines for items like golf clubs, bicycles, surfboards, and skis. These items often count as one piece of your checked baggage allowance but may incur an additional handling fee. For example, golf clubs might have a specific fee. It is essential to declare these items during check-in.
Musical Instruments: Musical instruments can be transported as checked baggage if securely packed in a hard-shell case. Large instruments that cannot fit in the overhead bin may be transported as checked baggage. PAL may have specific policies on whether an instrument can occupy a seat; this requires prior arrangement and payment of the full fare for that seat.
Pets: PAL allows small domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cargo hold. This requires prior approval, valid health and rabies vaccination certificates, an airline-approved pet carrier, and payment of a pet fee. The pet must be at least 8 weeks old.
Firearms and Ammunition: Firearms are only accepted as checked baggage and require prior notification. The firearm must be unloaded, packed in a locked hard-shell case, and declared at check-in. Ammunition must be in the original manufacturer's packaging.

V. Prohibited and Restricted Items
For the safety and security of all passengers, PAL strictly prohibits certain items from being carried in either checked or carry-on baggage. Passengers must familiarize themselves with these lists, which align with international aviation security standards. Key prohibited items include:
Flammable materials (lighters, fuels, paints).
Corrosive substances (acids, bleach).
Weapons and sharp objects (knives, axes, tools).
Explosives and fireworks.
Lithium batteries exceeding 100 watt-hours (spare batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage).
Self-defense sprays.

VI. Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
To navigate PAL's Baggage Policy effectively and avoid extra costs, consider these practical tips:
Check Your Allowance Early: Log into your booking on the PAL website or use their mobile app to see your specific baggage allowance. This is the most accurate source, as it considers your cabin, route, and fare type.
Purchase Online for Savings: If you need to purchase extra baggage or baggage not included in your fare, always do so online. The savings compared to airport counter prices are substantial.
Weigh and Measure at Home: Avoid gate surprises by weighing and measuring your bags at home. Ensure your carry-on fits within the 56x36x23 cm and 7 kg limits.
Pack Smart: Distribute weight evenly in checked bags. Place heavy items at the bottom. Keep valuables, fragile items, essential medications, and important documents in your carry-on baggage.
Label Your Bags: Use durable identification tags with your name, phone number, and destination address on every checked bag, both inside and out.
Arrive Early: Factor in time for baggage check-in, especially for international flights or if you have special items.
Review the Official Policy: PAL may update its policy. Always check the most current information on their official website under the "Baggage" section before you travel.

Conclusion
The baggage policy of Philippine Airlines is made to be both economical and flexible for various kinds of travel. You may make sure your luggage travels with you by being aware of the precise allowances for your cabin and route, making use of online purchases for additional baggage, and making arrangements for any particular things you want to carry. A small amount of planning will go a long way toward making your vacation with PAL enjoyable and stress-free so you can concentrate on the adventure.