Thai Airlines Baggage Policy

Thinking of going on a trip with Thai Airways? It is important to learn their baggage policies so as to enable them to plan and have a smooth trip. In this all-encompassing blog, we will get to know about Thai Airways’ baggage policy in-depth, including their checked and carry-on baggage allowances.

When you know the maximum weight and dimensions of checked and carry-on bags you are allowed to carry, it will help you plan your trip with ease, and also save you from incurring any additional charges. So, let’s get started.

Thai Airways Checked Baggage Policy

The luggage which goes into the cargo hold is the checked baggage. Thai Airways is quite generous when it comes to checked baggage allowance, which varies as per the fare type and is also different for domestic, and international locations.

Thai Airways’ Checked Baggage Allowance For Domestic Destinations

Let us look into the baggage allowance for domestic sectors:

• Royal Silk Class – 40 kg or 88 pounds of checked baggage
• Economy Plus – 35 kg or 77 pounds of checked baggage
• Economy Class – 23 to 30 kg or 55 to 65 pounds of checked baggage
• ROP (Royal Orchid Plus) Silver Member (only for TG Sectors) – Plus 10 kg or 22 pounds of checked baggage
• ROP and Star Alliance Gold Members – Plus 20 kg or 44 pounds of checked baggage
• Royal Orchid Platinum Members for TG sectors only – Plus 30 kg or 66 pounds of checked baggage
• For infants that don’t occupy a seat – 10 kg or 22 pounds of checked baggage

NOTE: Saver class passengers have an allowance of 25 kg for reservations made before the 1st of April 2025, and 23 kg for any reservations made on or after the 1st of April 2025. For Flexi and Full Flexi Class the allowance is 30kg.

Travel on International Sectors to/from USA & Canada:

Let’s check out the checked baggage allowance for the aforementioned routes:

• Royal First Class & Royal Silk Class: The passengers in these classes are provided with a complimentary baggage allowance of two pieces per person, with a maximum weight allowance of 32 kgs (70 lbs) for each piece of luggage. Checked baggage should not exceed the total linear dimension of 158cms (62 inches) including length, width and height of each checked baggage.
• Economy Class: Just like the USA and Canadian citizens; passengers traveling in the economic class are allowed two checked bags for free too. However, the limit of each bag is less than the previous one and is equal to 23 kgs (50 lbs), while the linear dimensions of the whole luggage do not differ and remain 158 cms (62 inches). For infants who do not occupy a seat, the allowance is 23 kg or 50 pounds, and the dimension shouldn’t be more than 115 cm or 45 inches.

Travel on Non-Canadian and USA Routes

While flying on routes other than those between the USA/Canada and Thailand, Thai Airlines Baggage Policy uses a weight concept. This means that depending on the fare, the free checked baggage allowance is calculated on the basis of the total weight permissible for check-in baggage and not the number of pieces.

The amount of weight allowance differs with the travel class and route that you are using. It is recommended to visit the Thai Airways website or better still talk to their customer service team to get the latest information about your desired route. However, here’s a general guideline:

• Royal First Class – 50 kg or 110 pounds of checked baggage
• Royal Silk Class – 40 kg or 88 pounds of checked baggage
• Economy Plus – 35 kg or 77 pounds of checked baggage
• Economy Class – 23 to 30 kg or 55 to 66 pounds of checked baggage
• Infants who do not occupy any seat – Plus 10 kg or 22 pounds of checked baggage
• Royal Orchid Plus Silver- Plus 10 kg or 22 pounds of checked baggage
• Royal Orchid Plus and Star Alliance Gold – Plus 20 kg or 44 pounds of checked baggage
• Royal Orchid Platinum – Plus 30 kg or 66 pounds of checked baggage

Important Notes:

• However, depending on the airline company and type of ticket, there is a free checked baggage allowance and each individual checked baggage must weigh no more than 32 kgs (70 lbs). Any bag with a weight more than this will be treated as an extra baggage and attract a charge accordingly.
• The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 158 cms (62 inches). 
• If a passenger is rerouted to the lower service class involuntarily, then he higher class of baggage allowance will apply even if they are refunded the fare difference.

Thai Airways Carry-on Baggage (Hand Baggage) Policy

Thai Airways allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard the aircraft. Here are the size restrictions for these items:

• Carry-on Bag: The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm (22 inches x 17.7 inches x 9.8 inches), including wheels and handles. The total weight shouldn’t exceed 7 kg or 15 lbs. Passengers must place their carry-ons on the overhead bin or below the seat to their front.
• Personal Item: The dimensions for a personal item should not exceed 38 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm (15 inches x 11.8 inches x 7.9 inches).

The items could be spot-checked at the check-in counter or near the boarding gate to verify that the rules and regulations are being complied with.

NOTE: If you are carrying liquids in your carry-on ensure that they are in containers nit exceeding 100 ml. If the container size is greater than 100 ml, the liquids won’t be accepted even if the bottles are filled partially. A single bag per passenger is permitted and the travelers and exemptions might be made for baby food, medications and also for food carried by passengers with specified medical requirements. During security check, passengers should carry the plastic bag bearing liquids separately from their other cabin baggage.

Examples of carry-on bags:

• Rolling suitcases that do not exceed the regulation size measured from the ground to the top of the suitcase.
• Backpacks only, with a maximum size of the permitted bags.
• Items that can fit large duffel bags for the restricted size measures.

Examples of personal items:

• Purses or Handbags or wallets or notebooks or portable personal computers
• Briefcases
• Laptop bags
• Small backpacks
• Walking stick or crutches with elderly passengers or those with reduced mobility may require

Things to Remember about Carry-on Bags:

• The carry-on bag must be of a size that can be placed in the overhead compartment or under the passenger seat.
• If overhead bins are full, your carry-on may be checked at the gate (meaning, it will be taken to the aircraft’s cargo hold at the boarding gate) for free. Just in case there is a possibility that the carry-on may be placed in the belly of the plane, make sure you take out any delicate items from it.

Thai Airways Excess Baggage Rules

The charge for excess baggage varies as per domestic, and international destinations, for which you may refer to the official website. You ,may however, purchase excess baggage online by visiting Thai Airways’ official website or checking their mobile app. The maximum excess baggage that can be purchased is from 5 to 50 kilograms / person/flight. You should do it 24 hours before your flight, eligible for both domestic as well as international destinations.

Restricted Items As Per Thai Airways Baggage Policy

Here are some of the items which are considered restricted and there are limitations of carrying the same in your checked or cabin baggage or both.

1. Alcohol – Permitted in both checked and cabin baggage; they should be contained in retail packaging, and should have no greater than 7-% alcohol on the basis of volume.
2. Electroshock weapons – When they contain dangerous goods like compressed gases, explosives, and lithium batteries are not be permitted in checked and carry-on luggage.
3. Sparklers and Fireworks – These objects containing explosives aren’t allowed onboard.
4. Neutralizing Devices – Pepper spray, maces, and other disabling devices which contain incapacitating or irritant substances cannot be carried in checked or carry-on luggage.
5. Ammunitions – The ammunitions used for sporting purpose are only allowed as checked baggage but forbidden in carry-on. However, they have to be packaged securely, and each person must carry no more than 5 kg of ammunition.
6. Non radioactive toiletries, or medical items – You can carry them on checked and carry-on baggage. However, they shouldn’t be more than 2 kg or 2l. Clinical or medical thermometer are allowed in checked baggage but forbidden in carry-on.
7. E-cigarettes – These include e-pipes, e-cigars, alongside other personal vaporizes should be protected individually to prevent them from activating accidentally. They are allowed in carry-ons but are totally forbidden in checked baggage.
8. Powerbank – They are allowed in carry-on but forbidden in your checked baggage. They should be not more than 100wh and be kept only for personal use. Each passenger cannot use more than 20. Those exceeding 100wh but are within 160 Wh requires permission from the airline. Powerbank above 160 Wh aren’t permitted.
9. Battery-powered wheelchairs – Those with lithium ion or spillable batteries are allowed in checked baggage, though prior approval is needed. However, you cannot take them in your carry-on.

To know more about restricted goods on Thai Airways which include cartridges, bottles, battery-powered devices, etc, you may visit Thai Airways’ official website.

Thai Airways’ Rules for Carrying Special Baggage

You can carry special baggage which include musical, and sports equipment. For Non Canadian or US Routes here are the rules and regulations you must follow:

1. Archery – You must request before three working days from your departure date. You must specify the equipment type, total no. of pieces, total dimension, and weight. In case of overweight or oversized equipment excess baggage fees may be charged.
2. Backpacks – You can carry them, but will be charged if they exceed the specified weight, and size limits.
3. Bicycle or Bike – Each passenger can carry a single bike and the second will incur an excess baggage charge. The bicycle you are carrying should be non-motorized, and of a single seat. You should turn the handlebar lengthwise securing it to the frame. You may be required to take out the bicycle’s front wheel. The pedals should be taken off as well and the tyres must even be deflated. Lower or remove the seat post and package the bicycle alongside the accessories properly in a box. You cannot carry tandem bicycles.
4. Bowling – You can carry a single piece of bowling equipment that include a bowling ball, a bowling bag, and bowling shoes (one pair).
5. Canoe – The allowance isn’t included and you can only carry them as checked baggage. When carrying a canoe ensure that you reach the airport around four hours before your flight’s departure time. To bring a canoe, you must request before three working days.
6. Cricket – Request three days before your journey and specify all the details like the dimensions, weight, etc.
7. Fishing equipment – A single item includes a fishing tackle box, a landing net, fishing boots (one pair), two rods, and a reel. You should encase them well.
8. Golf equipment – A golf equipment set comprise of a golf bag with golf clubs, golf shoes (one pair), and golf balls.
9. Rackets (which include badminton, or tennis) – You should make your request three working days in advance and also specify everything in detail like the equipment type, total weight, dimensions, and no. of pieces.
10. Snow or water skiing equipment – Skis, ski poles, and boots (all one pair) or a snowboard and boots (one pair) or a standard water ski (one pair) or a salom water ski is permitted.
11. Scuba Diving equipment – A single scuba diving equipment include a scuba tank (that must be empty), a regulator, a tank harness, a tank pressure gauge, a knife, a mask, a snorkel, two fins, a safety vest, and a spear gun. They will be allowed only in checked baggage and you must unload the spear gun.
12. Windsurf – They can’t be accepted on A320 flights. You must request for the equipment three days before your flight’s departure date. Moreover, you have to present for check-in two hours before your flight’s departure time.
13. Sporting Firearms – They are allowed only after special permission, and if they are carried for sporting purposes.
14. Musical Instruments – If you are carrying fragile musical instruments like a cello, you should place them adjacent to the window seat, or even the end seat row which adjoins the seat of the passenger. The total dimension shouldn’t be greater than 150 x 35 x 50 cm.

For Canadian or US Routes

Here are the special baggage rules for Canadian or US routes.

1. Bicycle – They are included in the allowance and the charge is 150 USD per unit.
2. Golf Set – This costs 150 USD per unit. It includes fourteen golf clubs, twelve golf balls, and golf shoes (one pair).
3. Snow or water ski equipment – The cost is 150 USD per unit. One set of snow or water ski equipment will be a part of the baggage allowance.
4. Surfboard – The price varies as per the board length. A board length of as much as two meters may cost 150 USD for a single unit. Whereas, board length of more than two meters will cost USD 300 for two units. The same applies for windsurfing equipment also.
5. Scuba Diving equipment – The charge for carrying the same is $150 per unit and a set of scuba diving equipment will be a part of the checked baggage allowance.
6. Portable Musical Instruments – One instrument will be included in the baggage allowance. The musical instruments shouldn’t exceed a length of 39 cm or 100 inches.

For knowing more about the special equipment you can carry on Thai Airways, you may check their official website or get in touch with their customer care department.

What If Your Baggage Is Delayed Or Damaged On A Thai Airways Flight?

If your baggage is delayed, and you cannot locate the same when your flight has arrived, in such cases, contact their ground staff at once. You must submit a report wherein you have to describe your baggage at length. Also, provide your delivery address, and contact details. Once you submitted your report, you will receive a copy of the same, and also a file reference number. You’ll be notified once your baggage has been found at the address you mentioned. In case your baggage delay is prolonged then a claim must be filed by you

If the delay is over 24 hours ad there’s a need to purchase toiletries, alongside other essential items, then you’ll be reimbursed, within reasonable limits though.

In case of damaged baggage, you will have to find a PIR (Property Irregularity Report). In case your baggage has been damaged and the airline holds responsible for the same, then it will be repaired or you may be compensated. Thai Airways isn’t liable for damage caused because of the following:

• Overpacking
• Perishable or fragile items inside checked bags
• Rain, snow, or water
• Regular wear and tear
• If the protruding part of the baggage like the pockets, external locks, or straps are damaged

Tips for Packing and Saving Money on Baggage Fees with Thai Airways

Here are some handy tips to help you pack efficiently and avoid excess baggage fees when flying with Thai Airways:

• Check your specific allowance: Before proceeding any further, it is important to note that Thai Airways has a flexible baggage allowance system depending on the flight route and travel class. However, it is important that you visit their website or speak to their customer service department to know more about the exact allowance for the particular flight you wish to take.
• Pack light: Make good use of the free checked baggage allowance but do this while observing the weight and size restrictions.
• Space-saving techniques: Organize your clothes and other items by placing them inside packing cubes or compression bags for the check-in luggage.
• Wear your bulkiest clothes: Choose to wear and carry with you the heavyweight shoes, jackets, and sweaters may be needed during your trip than packing them.
• Consolidate with travel companions: While traveling, it is useful to pack some items together in one check in bag to avoid having to pay for multiple bags.
• Ship bulky items: For instance, if you are carrying large items such as bicycles, surfboards and the like, it is wise to airlift these items in advance rather than check them in incase you are charged additional fees for excess baggage.

With these tips and proper knowledge of Thai Airways baggage policy, one can easily avoid all the hassle and enjoy the journey. In the next section, we will look at some of the questions that might be asked regarding the policies of the Thai Airways International PLC on baggage allowance.

Conclusion

Thai Airlines have strictly followed certain rules regarding baggage check-in and this information is very important to be known by every traveler. When planning a trip, whether it is within the country or to another country, being familiar with the exact rules of which items are allowed or prohibited in the carry-on or check-in luggage will be very helpful in preventing additional charges.

Always ensure that you check on the size and weight of your luggage before going to airport and if you have extra baggage, you should book for it in advance to qualify for the discounted rates. It is therefore important to make sure that you abide by these rules so that your experience with Thai Airlines can be as pleasant as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

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