How much does checked baggage cost with Air France?

The cost of checked luggage with Air France depends on several factors: the fare chosen (for example, in Economy Light, no luggage is included, but you can add it from €25 online or €40 at the airport), the destination, and whether you are carrying additional luggage. Note that surcharges apply for excess weight (24-32 kg: €50-€150) or dimensions (over 158 cm: €40-€300).

In general, Air France offers a free allowance: 1 piece of 23 kg in Economy (excluding Light), 2x23 kg in Premium Economy, and more in Business. However, for transferred cabin luggage or additional luggage, expect extra fees when purchasing your ticket or before departure.

Travel with peace of mind by knowing these essential details to manage your suitcases and accessories effectively!

How much does Air France checked luggage cost? Quick summary

In summary: Air France checked luggage costs between €0 and €90 in most cases, but can exceed €300 in the event of additional bags, excess weight, or purchasing at the airport.

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Checked baggage pricing by destination

Checked baggage for domestic flights

For your domestic flights within France, such as a departure from a Parisian airport to Marseille, checked baggage rates remain affordable if you book in advance. Generally, a first 23 kg bag is included, except for Economy Light tickets. However, if you need additional luggage, expect a cost of about €55 if you book online. This rate can increase to a minimum of €30 or more if you pay directly at the airport. Therefore, plan your checked bags to avoid high extra fees.

Checked baggage for international flights

For international flights, baggage rates vary based on the distance traveled. For example, adding an additional checked bag can cost from €200 for a second item in Economy class, and reach up to €285 depending on the region. It is advisable to purchase these options more than 24 hours before your departure, which can prove more economical. Remember to check the conditions when purchasing your ticket, especially if you are traveling in premium economy or a higher class, to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Pricing examples by region

For Europe, cabin luggage transferred to the hold or excess weight can incur a surcharge between €55 and €200. If you are traveling to destinations like Asia, for example Bangkok from Nice, the fees for eight additional bags could reach €1,490 by 2025. Standard baggage dimensions (158 cm combining height, length, and width) also influence the costs, which always remain more advantageous if you book online rather than at the airport.

Factors influencing the cost of checked baggage

Weight and dimensions

The weight and dimensions of your suitcase play a key role in determining any potential fees. In general, airlines apply a standard rule that limits the sum of the length, height, and width to a maximum of 158 cm. Regarding weight, thresholds of 23 kg (for Economy and Premium classes) and 32 kg (for Business and La Première classes) are set. Beyond these limits, a surcharge may be billed or a specific option may be required to transport an out-of-format or heavier piece of luggage.

Advance purchases vs. airport purchases

Air France allows you to purchase baggage options online, either via "My Bookings" or during ticket purchase. If you choose this solution up to 24 hours before departure, you benefit from a discount. Conversely, at the airport, these services are generally more expensive. Furthermore, some options, such as transporting heavier luggage, are only available at the counter on the day of departure.

Impact of seasonality on rates

Checked baggage rates can vary according to the season. During peak periods, such as school holidays or festive seasons, demand for check-in and services increases. This can lead to charges at the airport rate, often higher, if you purchase your options at the last minute. To avoid these increases, Air France recommends anticipating the purchase of options online.

Air France's general checked baggage policy

Baggage allowance by travel class

Air France offers a free checked baggage allowance, which varies according to your travel class:

• In Economy (excluding Light fare), you are entitled to one 23 kg bag.
• In Premium Economy, the allowance includes two pieces of 23 kg each.
• In Business, you can carry two bags of 32 kg each.
• In La Première, the allowance extends to three bags of 32 kg each.

For babies traveling without a seat, a 10 kg allowance is provided. Regarding special equipment such as car seats or strollers, specific rules apply, whether in the cabin or the hold.

Determining the cost of checked baggage

The cost of checked baggage depends on several factors:

• The base is defined by your ticket type and your destination.
• For additional bags exceeding the allowance, rates vary. For example, a second bag in Economy can cost between €200 and €285.
• If cabin luggage must be placed in the hold due to a full flight, this may be free. However, in other cases, fees apply according to specific price schedules, particularly for journeys within France or to overseas territories.

Managing additional luggage

Options and rates for additional luggage

To add additional luggage, choose the Additional Baggage Option, available online up to 24 hours before the flight. This option is offered at a discounted rate, for example: €90 for a first additional 23 kg bag, €290 for two, or €490 for three. These rates are much more advantageous than those applied at the counter. You can carry up to 10 pieces in total, provided you comply with the authorized weights and dimensions to avoid any refusal.

Using Miles to pay for additional luggage

If you are a Flying Blue member, you have the possibility of using your Miles to pay for your additional or excess baggage. This practical option is available when managing your booking online or directly at the airport. Thus, your loyalty points can turn into extra space for your suitcase.

Exceptional baggage and special equipment

If your cabin luggage or your cabin accessory (like a bag) is too bulky, it will have to be checked in the hold, with additional fees. Regarding exceptional baggage (over 32 kg or 300 cm), it is necessary to contact Air France Cargo. In addition, special equipment, such as a stroller or a car seat, benefits from more flexible rules. Passengers in La Première class also enjoy advantages for their luggage, whether in the cabin or the hold.

How to stop paying for the hold altogether

The only way to permanently eliminate this expense is to travel in the cabin. Provided the suitcase fits: the Air France cabin size is 55 × 35 × 25 cm, but that of Ryanair, Vueling, and Volotea drops to 20 cm in depth. A suitcase 23 or 25 cm thick will therefore be refused on these airlines and will go back into the hold at the full rate.

The only format that satisfies the seven major European airlines simultaneously is 55 × 35 × 20 cm. We detail the complete table in our guide on the cabin suitcase that passes on all airlines, and the amortization calculation in how much checked baggage really costs per year.

Conclusion

In summary, the price of checked baggage varies according to several criteria: your fare, travel class, destination, as well as the weight and dimensions of your suitcase. To save money, remember to anticipate the purchase of additional luggage online. This will allow you to take advantage of better rates and avoid surcharges at the airport.

Don't forget to check the specific rules for special equipment such as strollers, car seats, or out-of-format items to avoid unforeseen expenses.

Act now: check your Air France booking, add the baggage option, or use your Miles to secure the necessary space for your trip.

FAQ

How much does checked baggage cost with Air France according to the fare type (Light, Classic, Flex) and how do I pay for it?

The cost of checked baggage with Air France depends on the fare type chosen:

• Light: Generally, checked baggage is not included. It can be added from the time of booking online or at the airport, with a variable price starting from ~€25 in Europe.
• Classic: One 23 kg bag is often included, but this may vary depending on the destination.
• Flex: Checked baggage is included, accompanied by flexible options. You can also add or purchase additional luggage via "My Bookings" online or directly at the counter/airport.

What are the fees for a second checked bag, additional luggage, or excess weight/size with Air France?

The fees for checked baggage with Air France in 2025 are as follows:

• Second checked bag in Economy class: Between €200 and €285.
• Additional luggage: From €55 to €300, depending on the destination and conditions.
• Excess weight (between 23 kg and 32 kg): From €20 to €300.
• Excess size (over 158 cm): From €20 to €300.

Rates vary depending on the route and the time of purchase, with discounts available online.

Is there a difference in price for checked baggage depending on the destination (domestic flight, Europe, international long-haul)?

Yes, checked baggage rates depend on the destination:

• Domestic flights: Fees are often lower, or even included in the ticket price.
• Flights within Europe or to neighboring countries: Fees are moderate.
• Long-haul or intercontinental flights: Rates are generally higher, with a different allowance depending on the ticket class and the airline.

Can I add or modify checked baggage after booking (online, via the app, or at the airport) and what are the applicable rates and deadlines?

Yes, it is generally possible to add or modify checked baggage after booking:

• Online or via the app: This option is often cheaper and modifiable up to 24 hours, or even 2.5 hours before departure, depending on the carrier.
• At the counter or airport: Fees are often higher if the purchase is made on-site.

Rates depend on weight, number of bags, and the itinerary. Specific conditions may vary from one airline to another.
To put these amounts in context, we have gathered the rules and prices of other airlines in a single table.

Sources

• Air France, Additional, larger, or heavier baggage (accessed December 2025)