Emirates Baggage Policy (2026) — Fees, Limits & Rules
Emirates offers a generous baggage policy, including at least one free checked bag on all fares. Most routes use a weight concept allowing unlimited bags up to a total weight, while flights to/from the Americas and Africa use a piece concept.
Baggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | Emirates (EK) |
|---|---|
| Carry-On | 55x38x22 cm (22x15x8 inches), 7 kg (15 lbs) max for Economy |
| Personal Item | Economy is permitted 1 piece of carry-on baggage. First/Business are permitted 2 pieces (1 briefcase + 1 handbag/garment bag). Briefcase max 45x35x20 cm. |
| Checked Bag Allowance | Weight concept (most routes): Special 20kg, Saver 25kg, Flex 30kg, Flex Plus 35kg. Piece concept (Americas/Africa): Special 1 bag (23kg), Saver/Flex/Flex Plus 2 bags (23kg each). Business/First: 40kg/50kg or 2 bags (32kg each). |
| First Bag Fee | Included in fare (free) for standard allowance. Additional bags/weight vary by route (e.g., $225 from Americas to Middle East). |
| Second Bag Fee | Included in fare for Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus on piece concept routes. Additional bags vary by route (e.g., $225 from Americas to Middle East). |
| Overweight Fee | $75 for flights to/from Americas and Africa; CAD 95 for flights to/from Canada |
| Oversized Fee | $75 for flights to/from Americas and Africa; CAD 95 for flights to/from Canada |
| Max Weight | 32 kg |
| Max Dimensions | 300 cm linear (L+W+H) for weight concept; 150 cm linear for piece concept |
| Free Bag in Economy | Yes |
Special Items
Sports Equipment
Accepted as part of standard baggage allowance. Total dimensions must not exceed 300 cm (118 inches). Scuba tanks must be empty.
Musical Instruments
No special free allowance. Must be handled as normal checked or cabin baggage, or transported on a paid-for seat in the cabin.
International Rules
Uses weight concept for most routes (allowance based on total weight, unlimited pieces). Uses piece concept for flights to/from Americas and Africa (allowance based on number of bags).
Tips to Avoid Fees
1. Buy extra baggage allowance online up to 4 hours before departure for a 50-60% discount. 2. Join Emirates Skywards for extra baggage allowance on weight concept routes. 3. Use Cash+Miles to pay for excess baggage. 4. Ensure individual bags do not exceed 32kg to avoid cargo fees.
Unique Nuances
Emirates uses a 'weight concept' for most global routes allowing unlimited pieces up to a weight limit, but a 'piece concept' for the Americas and Africa. Passengers traveling with infants can request a complimentary baby stroller at the airport. Dialysis machines can be checked free of charge.