Sun Country Airlines is a great option for people who wish to travel at reasonable fares throughout the United States and certain international destinations. Any airline will have its own baggage policy which travelers must adhere to to avoid additional charges. The policies are implemented on checked and carry-on baggage. In this article, we will delve deep into Sun Country Airlines checked baggage policy, knowing about the weight, and size allowance, fees, and a lot more. 

Sun Country Airlines Check-In Baggage Allowance

As per Sun Country Airlines checked baggage policy the weight of the bag shouldn’t exceed 50 pounds, and the dimensions must not be more than 62 linear inches which is a combination of length, width, and height. Overweight or oversized bags will incur an extra baggage fee.

For each passenger traveling by Sun Country Airlines, one free item is allowed to be placed under their seat. It can be any of the following: a purse, backpack, or laptop bag, provided that it is not more than 17 x 13 x 9 inches. This will make sure it fits perfectly under the front seat, leaving ample space to relax comfortably. Cabin or carry-on baggage that should be stored in the overhead bin is permissible as well. However, it should have a height of 24 inches, weight of 16 inches, and depth of 11 inches. The overall weight of the carry-on shouldn’t exceed 35 pounds.

But you can buy extra bags in case you need them. This goes for checked or carry-on bags.

You have to note that if your checked baggage exceeds 70 pounds it won’t be accepted, particularly for flights going to or coming from Puerto Rico, and Jamaica. Checked baggage over 100 pounds won’t be allowed on any Sun Country flights. 

Sun Country Airlines Checked Baggage Policy – Extra Baggage Options

If you are traveling with more than one bag, you can pay for checked or carry-on bags. This you can do online while booking your flight or at the airport. The baggage options are usually cheaper when made in advance as compared with the airport. The rate of baggage is different for people depending on the itinerary so it is better to check a specific price relevant to your trip.

How Much Fees Does Sun Country Charge For Checked Baggage?

Sun Country Airlines has tiered pricing for baggage that reflects when and how you purchase your baggage options. The above mentioned table is for departures prior to the 3rd of September.

Baggage TypeWeight LimitFee
Under-seat ItemMax: 17 x 13 x 9 inchesFree
Checked BagMax: 50 poundsFree (1st bag)
Overweight Checked Bag51-60 pounds+$20
Overweight Checked Bag61-99 pounds+$60
Oversized Checked Bag>63 linear inches+$100
Special Sporting Equipment$`100Typically substitutes for 1st bag
Active Military PersonnelUp to 3 bags (2 checked bags and 1 bag to be stored overhead)The overhead bag is for free; there is a waiver in the oversized bag fees for the initial two checked bags; the fees will incur on the third bag

For departures made on the 3rd of September or after it, here are the fee structures to make note of:

  1. 51 to 60 pounds – +$25
  2. 61 to 70 pounds – +$50
  3. 71 to 80 pounds – +$75
  4. 81 to 90 pounds – +$100
  5. 91 to 99 pounds – +$125
  6. 63 (+) linear inches – $100
  7. Charge for special sporting equipment – $100

Important Points to Consider Regarding Sun Country’s Baggage Policy

We have already mentioned the checked baggage allowance in terms of weight and dimensions as specified by Sun Country Airlines. However, there are some more points to keep in mind in this regard.

  1. Flights to or from Puerto Rico, Canada, and Jamaica do not accept checked bags which weight over 70 pounds.
  2. Any of Sun Country flights won’t accept any bags that have a dimension of more than 80 linear inches and weigh greater than 100 pounds.
  3. The charges of the bags apply each way, per bag, and per person. The cost is non-refundable.
  4. When you purchase bags at the airport, they are more expensive than online purchase.
  5. Travelers choosing the option of overhead bag, get to store their luggage in the overhead bin.
  6. When you’ve already purchased the option of overhead bag, but there’s an issue with the size, then checked baggage charges will apply to your baggage.
  7. Each aircraft has a limited overhead storage. If the bins have attained their total capacity, then the authorities will tag the remaining bags and they’ll go in as checked luggage.
  8. Mark your names properly and clearly on all the bags.
  9. If the Sun Country agent determines that your bag isn’t fit to be transported, they won’t be checked.
  10. When checking four bags or more than that, then do contact the Reservation team in advance.
  11. A gate handling fee of $10 will apply when besides the standard charges when you purchase extra baggage at the airport.

What Benefits Does Sun Country Have for Military Personnel?

Active U.S. military personnel get special perks when flying with Sun Country Airlines. They are entitled to 3 free bags: one overhead, and two checked. If there isn’t any space overhead, the bag will go in as checked baggage without any additional cost. Military personnel must present a valid CAC (Common Access Card) with the affiliation of “Uniformed Services” affiliation at the airport to avail of this perk. Oversized fees are waived for the initial two checked bags, and standard fees incur for the third one.

Sun Country Special Baggage Fee Discounts for Cardholders

Sun Country Airlines Visa Signature cardholders will save even more on baggage fees; they’ll get 50% off on their first bag when booked online at suncountry.com or by calling Sun Country Reservations when booking a reservation. To access this discount, cardmembers need to be logged into their account when booking.

Sun Country Animal Travel Policies

For those traveling with pets, Sun Country Airlines allows cats and dogs as carry-on baggage on select flights within the contiguous United States. A non-refundable fee applies for reservations for pets; typically, this fee is $75 per pet per direction when booked in advance. Walk-up requests may incur higher fees if space allows as much as $100, which is non-refundable. The aircraft will not allow more than six pets in all.

Travelers must take note of certain requirements involving pet travel: an advance conditional reservation is recommended due to space limitations, and each flight only has a certain number of pets per aircraft. Furthermore, pets must also be contained within a carrier approved by the air carrier, which is positioned under the seat in front of you.

Sporting Equipment On Sun Country Airlines Regarded As Checked Baggage

Some sporting equipment can be substituted for a checked bag, whereas a few of them will require an extra charge. Here are some of the items which is replaced for a checked baggage:

  • Skiing Equipment: It will comprise skis, ski poles, ski bindings, and ski boots (all one pair); or a snowboard, bindings (a single set), and boots (one pair). The snowboards, and skis shouldn’t exceed a length of six feet. When you carry excess items than what’s permitted in skiing equipment, then extra charges may incur.
  • Bowling Equipment: A bowling ball, a bowling bag, and bowling shoes (one pair) will be regarded as a single item.
  • Hockey Equipment: A single hockey bag containing five sticks that are bound together can be regarded as a single equipment.
  • Fishing Equipment: Two rods not more than six feet long, a landing net, two reels, fishing boots (one pair),  and a fishing tackle box (single piece) is regarded as one item. If you have a fishing tube you can carry it in the overhead bin, provided it meets the specified dimensions – 24 x 16 x 11 inches.
  • Golfing Equipment: The golfing equipment that travelers can carry includes a golf bag, golf clubs, and golf shoes (one pair). Pack them well in a hard-sided case. 
  • Lacrosse Equipment: It may have a lacrosse bag and two sticks which are bound together.

Sporting Equipment Regarded As Oversized Bags In Sun Country Airlines

However, if you’re planning to bring more than one item or larger sports equipment such as surfboards or bicycles, you should check ahead of time about size restrictions and any fees that might apply because those items usually need special handling or additional fees. 

  • If you are carrying scuba diving equipment it will incur an additional charge and won’t be counted in your checked bags. Scuba equipment includes a knife, a snorkel, a speargun, two fins, a mask, and a BC vest (without air cartridges). 
  • Surfboards, kiteboards, and wakeboards shouldn’t be longer than five feet, and will incur extra charge as well.
  • Windsurfing equipment may have a windsurfing board, a wooden boom, a mast not longer than five feet, and a sail. 
  • Single-seated racing or non-motorized bicycles are acceptable by Sun Country. Fix the handlebars sideways, and remove the pedals. Encase them in a plastic foam or cardboard container for further safety.  
  • If you are carrying trailer hitches wrap and package them well to prevent further damage.
  • Trailer hitches should be packaged well, and wrapped properly to prevent any damage.                                                                                                                       
  • If your sports equipment is overweight or oversized you can be charged around $100. 

What is Sun Country’s Checked Baggage Policy for Carrying Musical Instrument

Small-sized instruments may be carried in the cabin, stowed overhead, or below the seat in front of you. However, bigger instruments like cellos, and guitars should go in as checked baggage, and an excess baggage fee may apply for oversized or overweight baggage. 

You may either purchase a separate seat for the instrument or send them as checked baggage. When checking them you must remember that these instruments may incur a fee. They are fragile and will be checked in as items with limited liability. 

Items exceeding 100 lbs aren’t accepted by Sun Country Airlines as mentioned already. 

Rules for Mobility Devices and Medical Equipment

Mobility devices and medical equipment are not counted as additional overhead bags for travelers.

Items like wheelchairs can be checked without cost at the ticket counter or gate. However, travelers using powered equipment should ensure that they have proper instructions available for disassembly if required. After checking in their own wheelchairs, travelers can use the ones owned by Sun Country if the need arises. Their wheelchairs will be returned at the gate if possible. However, a lot of it depends on the airport, and also on the size of the wheelchair. In the case of the heavier powered models, it would be difficult to carry the equipment up to the jetway using the normal ramp stairways. When checking in wheelchairs or any electrical equipment ensure that you have at least an hour in hand so that the checking process may occur seamlessly.

If traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), it must be FAA-approved and travelers must inform Sun Country Reservations about 48 hours before their flight departs. Upon arrival at the airport on departure day, travelers have to notify a representative of Sun Country no later than one hour before departure to present their POC for inspection. Travelers must ensure that the manufacturers label is attached to the POC, which is a proof that it has been approved to be carried onboard. A physician’s document isn’t required anymore by the FAA, however, travelers should carry the operating instructions of the manufacturer for safety purposes. POCs mostly go in as carry-ons

Sun Country Airlines Checked Baggage Policy for Carrying Batteries

Your battery might or might not be permitted in the overhead or checked bags depending on the type of battery you carry. Dry batteries are permitted in checked and overhead baggage Lithium batteries found in hearing aids, watches, hearing aids, cell phones, and computers are allowed only in carry-ons. 

Wet batteries (non-spillable) are permitted in checked and overhead bags if they have a 12-volt capacity. You can carry spillable batteries only if you intend to power mobility devices. PED (Portable electronic devices) with batteries may go in checked baggage, and carry-ons as well. If you carry them in your checked luggage ensure to power them off completely, and pack them well. 

What Is Sun Country’s Rules For Carrying Arms and Ammunitions?

Ammunitions and firearms are only allowed in checked baggage, and not as carry-ons.

  1. Pack the ammunition well in the container provided by the manufacturer. You may even pack them in a case equivalent to the original one. However, ensure that the cartridges are placed separately.
  2. Not more than 11 pounds of ammunition will be transported.
  3. The container where the firearms are encased must be hard sided and locked as well.
  4. Federal law states that all firearms have to be unloaded. Moreover, the traveler should sign the “Firearm unloaded” form.
  5. Ammunitions, and firearms are permissible on flights within the United States only They aren’t allowed on international flights.
  6. Individuals below 18 aren’t permitted to check a firearm, unless they have a proof that they are trained well in firearm safety.
  7. Paintball guns may be permitted in checked luggage, and has to be declared by the customer.

Sun Country Alcoholic Beverages Policy

Passengers are permitted to carry alcoholic beverages subject to the following conditions: Alcohol content shall not exceed 70% (140 proof). Packaging shall be unopened in its original retail packaging. Beverages with an alcohol content of between 24% (48 proof) and 70% (140 proof) shall not exceed five liters per person. Bottles of less than 24% alcohol content, such as most beers and wines, are not prohibited.

When carrying alcohol or wine, ensure that you pack them well in your checked bag. The packaging must be in leakproof and cushioned packaging. If you purchased the alcohol from the airport’s duty-free store you may carry it on board and store it below the seat in front of you in secure packaging. 

What is Sun Country’s Policy for Frozen Items?

When carrying frozen items here are some essential points to keep in mind for a better travel experience:

  1. Package and seal the container well using a plastic tape or strapping. You aren’t allowed to carry Styrofoam coolers in checked baggage or even in overhead bags.
  2. Containers weighing greater than 100 pounds aren’t accepted. Ensure that the weight is within 50 pounds to avoid incurring overweight baggage charges,
  3. On each container its contents must be labeled in details to avoid any confusion. The traveler’s details which include name as well as address should also be there on the label.
  4. You can use dry ice in checked bags only as a refrigerant, up to as much as 5.5 pounds. You cannot carry dry ice in overhead bags.

Conclusion

In conclusion, then knowledge of Sun Country Airlines checked baggage policy is important to travelers who wish to avoid unexpected fees and ensure adherence to airline rules. One free under-seat item is allowed to each passenger, while additional carry-on and checked bags are available for purchase both online and at the airport.

By planning and knowing specifics about baggage limits, weight, and surcharges associated with them, the traveler will be better equipped to plan his or her travel itinerary while avoiding potential costs he or she may incur for transporting baggage on Sun Country Airlines flights.

You May Read More: Allegiant Air Checked Baggage Policy

Frequently Asked Question

How can you buy extra baggage on Sun Country?

You can purchase it online while booking your reservation. If you missed out doing the same, and remember later, you could still buy extra bag on an existing reservation by visiting the My Trips section. However, that could cost higher compared to buying when you are booking for the first time. You can even make the purchase at the boarding gate, but that’s the most expensive of all.

What is not allowed on checked baggage? 

There are several items that cannot go in as checked baggage. The ones that top the list include prohibited items such as hazardous materials, inflammable objects, weapons, and items that may pose a safety risk. Check TSA guidelines for specific restrictions.

What if my checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds in Sun Country?

 Exceeding 50 pounds means extra fees of $20 for 51-60 pounds and $60 for 61-99 pounds.

Can you carry wedding dresses onboard?

Yes they can go in as overhead bags if the can be accommodated inside the sizer box. However, the overall weight shouldn’t exceed 35 pounds.

What happens in the case of a damaged or delayed baggage on a Sun Country flight?

Sun Country does their best to retrieve and return the owner’s baggage at the earliest. If the baggage was damaged during transit, Sun Country will work towards resolving any claims. That’s why travelers must always keep their ticket copies, and other important documents at hand always to present it whenever the need arises. For checking your damaged or delayed bag’s status you may visit Sun Country’s Help Center.

What if you left items behind?

In case you left the items at the gate, terminal or ticket counter, then you may contact the particular airport’s Lost and Found center. If you left it onboard, you must fill out the ” Items left onboard form”. For items left at the TSA checkpoint, get in touch with TSA or visit their official website.


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