El Al Airlines Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215

El Al Israel Airlines, the national flag carrier of Israel, is renowned for its world-class security measures, extensive international network, and passenger-focused services. Whether you are traveling for business, leisure, or family visits, one of the most important aspects of your journey is understanding the El Al Airlines Baggage Policy. Knowing the rules for carry-on, checked baggage, excess baggage fees, and special item handling ensures that you travel with confidence while avoiding unnecessary costs.

This comprehensive guide explores every aspect of El Al’s baggage policy, including allowances, fees, size restrictions, and useful tips for saving money.

1. Carry-On Baggage Allowance

El Al allows passengers to carry hand luggage on board at no extra cost. The carry-on baggage allowance varies by travel class:

Economy Class:

1 piece weighing up to 8 kg (17 lbs).

Maximum size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm.

Business Class:

2 pieces, each weighing up to 8 kg (17 lbs).

First Class:

2 pieces, each weighing up to 8 kg (17 lbs).

Along with the carry-on bag(s), passengers may also bring a personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. This personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.

2. Checked Baggage Allowance

El Al uses the Piece Concept for most of its international flights, which means allowances are determined by the number of bags, not the total weight.

Economy Class
Most Economy fares include 1 checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

Some lower-priced Economy Light fares may exclude free checked baggage, requiring passengers to purchase it separately.

Business Class
2 checked bags, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs).

First Class
3 checked bags, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs).

For all classes, the maximum size for each checked bag is 158 cm (length + width + height).

3. Excess Baggage Policy and Fees

If your baggage exceeds the free allowance, El Al charges excess baggage fees, which vary depending on the route and whether the fee is paid online in advance or at the airport.

Overweight Bags
Economy Class: Bags over 23 kg and up to 32 kg will incur additional charges.

Business and First Class: Each bag can weigh up to 32 kg without extra fees, but anything beyond that limit is not accepted.

Oversized Bags
Bags exceeding 158 cm in total dimensions will incur an oversize fee.

Oversized items above 203 cm may not be accepted, except for special equipment such as sports gear.

Extra Bags
Additional checked bags can be purchased online before the flight, often at a reduced rate compared to airport prices.

4. Special Items Policy

El Al accommodates passengers traveling with special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices.

Sports Equipment: Items such as bicycles, surfboards, skis, and golf clubs are accepted either as part of the free allowance (if within limits) or with an additional handling fee.

Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried as cabin baggage if they fit in the overhead compartment. Larger instruments can be checked in, but must meet weight and size restrictions.

Medical Equipment: Wheelchairs, mobility aids, and necessary medical devices are transported free of charge.

5. Baggage for Frequent Flyers

Members of the El Al Matmid Frequent Flyer Club or passengers with elite status enjoy additional baggage benefits. These may include:

Extra checked baggage allowance.

Discounted excess baggage fees.

Priority baggage handling.

6. Prohibited and Restricted Items

Like all airlines, El Al follows strict rules on what can and cannot be carried in baggage.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

Sharp objects (unless securely packed).

Liquids over 100 ml per container.

Flammable and explosive materials.

Prohibited in Checked Baggage:

Explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids, and other dangerous goods.

Lithium batteries above certain limits (must be in carry-on).

Given El Al’s reputation for heightened security checks, it is essential to ensure your baggage complies with their guidelines to avoid delays.

7. Tips to Save on Baggage Costs with El Al

Check your fare details before booking to confirm baggage allowance.

Pre-pay for extra baggage online—it’s cheaper than paying at the airport.

Weigh and measure your luggage at home to avoid overweight and oversize fees.

If traveling as a group, distribute weight between bags to avoid extra charges.

Join the Matmid Frequent Flyer Club for long-term savings and benefits.

Conclusion
The El Al Airlines Baggage Policy is designed to be clear, fair, and flexible, offering different allowances based on travel class and fare type. Business and First Class passengers enjoy generous limits, while Economy travelers should check their fare details before flying to avoid unexpected fees. Special items like sports gear and musical instruments are accommodated, and frequent flyers enjoy added benefits.