Travel Guide
Baggage Information
Everything you need to know about baggage allowances, fees, prohibited items, and special baggage for your journey.
Baggage Allowance by Cabin Class
| Cabin | Carry-On | Checked Baggage | Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (Light/Saver) | 1 personal item (under seat) — no cabin bag included on many fares | Not included — purchase required (approx. $50–$80 per bag) | 7 kg carry-on if permitted; 23 kg checked |
| Economy (Flex/Standard) | 1 carry-on bag (7 kg, 55×40×20 cm) + 1 personal item | 1 checked bag (23 kg) included | 23 kg per checked bag |
| Premium Economy | 1 carry-on bag (10 kg) + 1 personal item | 2 checked bags (23 kg each) included | 23 kg per checked bag |
| Business Class | 2 carry-on bags (up to 15 kg total) + 1 personal item | 2–3 checked bags (32 kg each) included | 32 kg per checked bag |
| First Class | 2 carry-on bags (up to 18 kg total) + 1 personal item | 3 checked bags (32 kg each) included | 32 kg per checked bag |
Ethiopian Airlines (ET) — Baggage Policy
Ethiopian Airlines is the primary carrier for routes through Addis Ababa (ADD). Key baggage rules:
- • Economy: 1 carry-on (7 kg) + 1 personal item; 1 checked bag (23 kg) on standard fares
- • Business (Cloud Nine): 2 carry-on bags (12 kg total) + 2 checked bags (32 kg each)
- • Excess baggage: Charged per kg (~$15–$25/kg depending on route)
- • Sports equipment: Accepted with advance notice; fees apply
- • US routes: Follow TSA regulations for carry-on liquids
Carry-On Liquid Rules (100 ml / 3-1-1 Rule)
The 100 ml rule (known as the "3-1-1 rule" in the US) applies to all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes in your carry-on luggage:
- ✓Each liquid container must be 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less
- ✓All liquids must fit in a single 1-litre (1 quart) clear, resealable plastic bag
- ✓Only one plastic bag per passenger
- ✓The bag must be presented separately at security screening
- ✓Exemptions: baby formula, breast milk, and essential medicines (carry documentation)
- ✓Duty-free liquids purchased after security in tamper-evident bags are generally allowed
Items Not Permitted in Carry-On
- ✗Liquids over 100 ml (3.4 oz) in containers larger than 100 ml
- ✗Sharp objects (knives, scissors with blades over 6 cm, razors with removable blades)
- ✗Explosives, fireworks, or flammable materials
- ✗Firearms and ammunition (unless checked and properly declared)
- ✗Self-defense sprays (pepper spray, mace)
- ✗Power banks over 160 Wh
- ✗Any item that could be used as a weapon
For a full list of prohibited items, see our Dangerous Goods Policy.
Special Baggage Items
Musical Instruments
Small instruments may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin. Larger instruments must be checked or a separate seat may be purchased. Contact the airline in advance.
Sporting Equipment
Skis, snowboards, golf clubs, bicycles, and surfboards are accepted as checked baggage with a fee ($50–$150 each way depending on airline). Must be in protective packaging.
Strollers & Car Seats
Collapsible strollers and car seats are accepted free of charge at the gate or check-in. They do not count toward your baggage allowance.
Pets
Small pets in cabin (up to 8 kg including carrier) are accepted on many airlines for an additional fee. Larger pets travel in the cargo hold. Advance booking required. Not all airlines accept pets on all routes.
Mobility Equipment
Wheelchairs and mobility aids are transported free of charge and do not count toward baggage limits. Notify your airline at the time of booking to arrange assistance.
Fragile & Valuable Items
Fragile items should be packed carefully and may be accepted in the cabin at the crew's discretion. Valuables (jewelry, electronics, cash) should always be kept in your carry-on.
Excess Baggage Fees
If your baggage exceeds the included allowance, fees are charged per kg or per extra piece depending on the airline. Fees vary by route:
- • Africa routes: ~$10–$15 per kg
- • Europe routes: ~$15–$25 per kg
- • North America routes: ~$100–$200 per extra piece
Pre-purchasing extra baggage online is always cheaper than paying at the airport.
Lost or Damaged Baggage
If your baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged:
- 1. Report immediately to the airline's baggage desk at the arrival airport
- 2. Obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) reference number
- 3. Keep all receipts for essential items purchased due to delay
- 4. File a claim with the airline within 7 days (21 days for delayed bags)
FlyEthio recommends purchasing travel insurance that includes baggage cover.
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