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The baggage policy of Viva Aerobus Baggage Policy operations and charging for frills like baggage, Mexico's top ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) provides reasonably priced travel options. It is vital to comprehend their particular baggage policy in order to prevent unforeseen charges at the airport and guarantee a seamless travel experience. Everything you need to know about flying with Viva Aerobus is covered in this in-depth guide, including carry-on restrictions, special products, and money-saving advice.
1. Carry-On Baggage: What You Can Bring Onboard
Viva Aerobus distinguishes between a standard carry-on bag and a personal item. Knowing the difference is critical to avoid hefty fees.
The Free Personal Item:
Definition: This is a small item that must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Think small backpack, purse, laptop bag, or a small tote bag.
Size Limit: Maximum dimensions of 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm (15.7 in x 11.8 in x 5.9 in). This is strictly enforced. If your bag doesn't fit these dimensions and slide easily under the seat, it will likely be considered a carry-on and incur a fee.
Weight Limit: No specific weight limit is publicly stated for the personal item, but it must be manageable for you to lift into the overhead bin yourself if requested, though it's intended to stay under the seat.
The Paid Carry-On Bag:
Definition: This is your standard cabin bag that goes in the overhead compartment. This is NOT included in the base fare.
Size Limit: Maximum dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm (21.7 in x 15.7 in x 7.9 in). This includes wheels and handles. Bags exceeding these dimensions will not be permitted in the cabin.
Weight Limit: Maximum weight of 10 kg (22 lbs). Bags exceeding 10 kg will be tagged and checked into the hold, subject to applicable checked baggage fees.
Fees: Carry-on fees vary significantly based on:
When you pay: Pre-paying online (via website or app) is always cheaper than paying at the airport or at the gate.
Route: Fees can differ based on the flight's origin and destination.
Time of purchase: Prices generally increase closer to departure.
Important: Only one carry-on bag per passenger is allowed. You must purchase and tag your carry-on bag before arriving at the boarding gate. Bags not tagged as paid carry-on will be gate-checked, often with a higher fee.
2. Checked Baggage: Your Luggage in the Hold
Checked baggage allows you to bring more items, but like carry-on, it's an additional service you pay for. Viva Aerobus offers flexibility in the size and weight of your checked bags.
Size Limit: Maximum linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of 158 cm (62 in). Bags exceeding this size will not be accepted.
Weight Limits & Fees: Viva Aerobus offers two primary checked baggage options:
10 kg (22 lbs) Bag: Ideal for shorter trips or light packers. This is a smaller checked bag.
25 kg (55 lbs) Bag: The standard checked bag allowance.
Fees: Fees depend on:
Bag Weight: 10kg bags are cheaper than 25kg bags.
Number of Bags: The more bags you pre-book, the cheaper the per-bag cost.
When you pay: Pre-paying online offers substantial savings compared to airport or gate rates.
Route: Fees can vary by destination.
Pre-Payment is Key: Viva Aerobus strongly encourages pre-paying for checked baggage during the initial booking process or later via "Manage My Booking" on their website or app. This is almost always the most economical option. You can typically add bags up to 4 hours before departure online.
Maximum Weight per Bag: No single checked bag can exceed 32 kg (70 lbs). Bags over this limit will not be accepted for safety and handling reasons.
Number of Bags: You can purchase multiple checked bags (either 10kg or 25kg) depending on your needs and budget. The total number is usually limited by aircraft capacity.
3. Special Baggage: Bringing Unique Items
Traveling with special items requires advance planning and additional fees.
Sports Equipment:
Golf Clubs: Typically charged as one standard checked bag (25kg rate). Must be in a proper golf bag.
Bicycles: Require disassembly (remove pedals, turn handlebars parallel, deflate tires). Fees apply, often based on the 25kg rate. Must be in a bike box or bag.
Surfboards/Windsurfing: Usually charged as one standard checked bag (25kg rate). Must be in a dedicated bag/box. Limited to one board per passenger.
Diving Equipment: Regulators and gauges must be disconnected. Tanks must be empty. Fees apply, often based on the 25kg rate.
Ski/Snowboard Equipment: Typically charged as one standard checked bag (25kg rate) for one pair of skis/snowboard plus boots/poles.
Fishing Rods: Must be packed in a rigid case. Fees apply.
Boxing Equipment: Must be packed securely. Fees apply.
General Rule: Always declare sports equipment during booking or check-in. Fees are generally equivalent to the checked baggage fees but may have specific surcharges. Check the Viva Aerobus website for the most current rates.
Musical Instruments:
Small Instruments (e.g., violin): Can be considered your personal item if they fit within the size limits (40x30x15cm).
Large Instruments (e.g., guitar, cello): Can be checked as standard baggage (paying the applicable fee). Alternatively, you can purchase an extra seat for the instrument if it exceeds standard baggage dimensions. This requires paying the full adult fare for the seat.
Other Special Items:
Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches are carried free of charge but must be declared at booking or check-in.
Assistance Dogs: Trained service dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities travel free in the cabin (subject to documentation and prior arrangement).
Unaccompanied Minors: Specific baggage allowances apply; check the UM policy.
Pets: Viva Aerobus allows pets to travel in the cabin or as cargo. Strict rules, health certificates, and fees apply. Pets are NOT included in the free personal item allowance. Contact Viva Aerobus well in advance to arrange.
4. Prohibited and Restricted Items
Like all airlines, Viva Aerobus enforces strict regulations:
Prohibited in Cabin & Hold: Flammable items (lighters, fuels), explosives, corrosives, oxidizers, radioactive materials, strong magnets, infectious substances, non-safety matches.
Prohibited in Cabin Only: Weapons (including replicas), cutting instruments (except small tools like nail files), blunt instruments.
Restricted Items:
Lithium Batteries: Strict rules apply. Power banks and spare batteries must be in carry-on baggage only. Devices containing lithium batteries (laptops, phones) should also be in carry-on. Damaged/swollen batteries are prohibited. Check the latest IATA guidelines.
Alcoholic Beverages: Over 70% alcohol is prohibited. Duty-free purchases must be in sealed, tamper-evident bags.
Aerosols: Limited quantities (≤0.5kg net per aerosol, ≤2kg total).
Liquids/Gels: Adhere to standard cabin liquid rules (containers ≤100ml, in a clear 1L bag).
Firearms & Ammunition: Must be declared, unloaded, in locked hard cases, and carried in the hold. Permits required.
Perishables: Generally not recommended in checked baggage due to temperature fluctuations.
5. Cost-Saving Tips for Viva Aerobus Baggage
The golden rule with ULCCs like Viva Aerobus is PRE-PAY, PRE-PAY, PRE-PAY!
Buy Online/Ahead of Time: This is the single biggest money-saver. Fees paid online are significantly lower than those at the airport or especially at the gate.
Use the Viva Aerobus App/Website: Manage your booking easily to add baggage up until a few hours before departure. The app often has the best mobile rates.
Measure Your Carry-On: Ensure your "personal item" fits the strict 40x30x15cm limit. If it doesn't, budget for a paid carry-on.
Weigh Your Bags: Use a luggage scale at home to avoid overweight fees for checked bags. Remember the 10kg and 25kg options.
Pack Light: Consider if you really need that extra checked bag. The personal item + one paid carry-on can suffice for short trips.
Check Your Route: Be aware that baggage fees can vary depending on your flight's origin and destination. Confirm when booking.
Consider Viva Points: If you're a Viva Points member, you might be able to use points to pay for baggage fees.
Conclusion:
Viva Aerobus offers a fantastic value proposition for travelers seeking affordable airfare. However, this value comes with the responsibility of understanding and managing their à la carte baggage policy. By carefully measuring your bags, accurately weighing them, and crucially, pre-paying for all carry-on and checked baggage online, you can avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport and keep your total travel cost low. Always double-check the latest policy details on the official Viva Aerobus website before you travel, as fees and rules can be updated. With a little planning, you can navigate their baggage policy with ease and enjoy your journey south of the border.