Alitalia Airline Baggage Rules: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

When flying with Alitalia, now operating as ITA Airways, understanding their baggage rules is crucial to avoid extra fees and ensure a smooth journey. From carry-ons to checked baggage, knowing the size and weight limitations will help you pack more efficiently and save you from unexpected costs at the airport. In this blog, we’ll cover Alitalia Airlines baggage policy, including carry-on allowances, checked baggage fees, overweight and oversized luggage charges, and tips on how to avoid extra baggage fees.

Alitalia Carry-On Baggage Policy

Alitalia allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard. However, there are specific size and weight limits that you must adhere to.

1. Carry-On Baggage Allowance

✔ One Carry-On Bag: You are allowed one carry-on bag with your flight.
✔ Size Limit: The carry-on bag should not exceed 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm (21.6” x 13.7” x 9.8”).
✔ Weight Limit: The bag cannot exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs) in weight.

2. Personal Item Allowance

In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one personal item such as:
✔ Handbag or purse
✔ Small backpack
✔ Laptop bag

This item must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you and is not subject to weight restrictions.

Important Note:

If your carry-on exceeds the size or weight limit, it will need to be checked in, and extra fees will apply. Always double-check your baggage before heading to the airport to avoid these charges.

Alitalia Checked Baggage Policy

The number of checked bags you can bring depends on the fare class, route, and ticket type. Below is an overview of Alitalia’s checked baggage allowances for various travel classes.

1. Checked Baggage Allowance by Fare Type

2. Size Limit for Checked Bags

The total size (length + width + height) of your checked luggage must be no more than 158 cm (62 inches). Bags exceeding this size will be considered oversized and incur additional fees.

3. Economy Light Fares

If you’ve booked an Economy Light fare, checked baggage is not included. In this case, you’ll need to pay for checked baggage separately, either when booking or at the airport.

Alitalia Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits, Alitalia charges additional fees. Below are the fees for overweight and oversized baggage.

Overweight Baggage Fees

Alitalia allows checked bags of up to 23 kg (50 lbs) in Economy and Premium Economy. For Business Class, you’re allowed up to 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag. If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you will incur additional charges.

Oversized Baggage Fees

If your bag exceeds the standard 158 cm (62 inches) size limit, you will incur oversized baggage fees.

If your bag is oversized, you may need to split your items into multiple smaller bags.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you need to check more bags than the allowed number, Alitalia charges an excess baggage fee.

Extra Baggage Fees (One-Way)

These fees can add up quickly, so it's best to prepay for extra baggage online if possible.

Alitalia Special Baggage Policy

Alitalia allows for special handling of certain types of baggage. These include sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical equipment.

1. Sports Equipment

Alitalia charges additional fees for sports equipment such as golf clubs, bicycles, and skis. The fees vary based on the item but typically range from €50 to €100 depending on the route and type of equipment.

2. Musical Instruments

Small musical instruments like violins or guitars may be carried onboard as hand luggage if they fit within the size limits. Larger instruments may need to be checked in, and additional fees may apply.

3. Medical Equipment

If you need to travel with medical equipment (e.g., oxygen tanks or wheelchairs), Alitalia allows you to check these items for free. However, it’s important to inform the airline in advance about any medical needs you may have during your flight.

How to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees on Alitalia

There are several ways to avoid incurring unnecessary baggage fees when traveling with Alitalia.

1. Weigh Your Luggage Before You Travel

Use a digital luggage scale at home to weigh your checked and carry-on bags. This will help you avoid overweight fees and ensure you stay within the limits.

2. Prepay for Extra Bags

If you know you’ll need extra baggage, prepay online for additional bags to save on fees. Airport prices are often higher.

3. Pack Strategically

Distribute the weight evenly between your bags. If you’re traveling with multiple bags, ensure none of them exceed the weight limit to avoid extra charges.

4. Wear Heavy Clothing

If you’re nearing the weight limit, consider wearing heavier items such as jackets, boots, or sweaters to save room in your luggage.

Comparing Alitalia’s Baggage Fees to Other Airlines

How do Alitalia’s baggage fees compare to other airlines?

Alitalia’s fees are competitive with other major European carriers, but it’s always best to book extra baggage early to avoid paying airport fees.

Final Thoughts

 By knowing the carry-on and checked baggage allowances, weight limits, and overweight fees, you can better plan your trip and save money.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Economy Light fares don’t include checked baggage.
✔ Checked bags in Economy can weigh up to 23 kg and Business allows up to 32 kg.
✔ Overweight baggage fees range from €50 to €100.
✔ Oversized baggage fees can be as high as €150.
✔ Extra baggage fees can be cheaper when prepaid online.

By following these tips, you can ensure a more affordable and hassle-free travel experience with Alitalia. Happy travels!