Virgin Atlantic Baggage Policy (2026) — Fees, Limits & Rules
Virgin Atlantic allows one carry-on bag (10 kg) and a personal item for free. Checked bags are included in all fares except Economy Light, which charges $75 for the first bag.
Baggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | Virgin Atlantic (VS) |
|---|---|
| Carry-On | 1 piece up to 10 kg (22 lbs) with max dimensions 23 x 36 x 56 cm (9 x 14 x 22 in) for Economy and Premium. Upper Class allows 2 pieces up to 16 kg combined (max 12 kg per bag). |
| Personal Item | 1 personal item allowed (handbag, small backpack, pocketbook, or purse) in addition to carry-on allowance. Must not be used to contain items that would otherwise be regarded as baggage. |
| Checked Bag Allowance | Economy Light: 0 bags. Economy Classic/Delight: 1 bag (23 kg). Premium: 2 bags (23 kg each). Upper Class: 2 bags (32 kg each). |
| First Bag Fee | $75 USD (65 GBP) for Economy Light on US/Canada flights, $75 USD (80 GBP) on other routes. Free for Classic/Delight. |
| Second Bag Fee | $100 USD (65 GBP) for Economy Light and Classic/Delight on US/Canada flights. $100 USD (80 GBP) on other routes. Free for Premium and Upper Class. |
| Overweight Fee | $100 USD (65 GBP) for overweight bags (up to 32 kg) on most routes. |
| Oversized Fee | $300 USD (200 GBP) for oversized bags on most routes. |
| Max Weight | 23 kg |
| Max Dimensions | 90 x 75 x 43 cm (35.5 x 29.5 x 16 in) per piece |
| Free Bag in Economy | No |
Special Items
Sports Equipment
One piece of sports equipment (max 23 kg, 190 x 75 x 65 cm) can be carried as part of the checked baggage allowance. If in addition to allowance, extra baggage fees apply.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments can be taken as hand baggage if within 23 x 36 x 56 cm and 10 kg. Larger instruments require purchasing an extra seat (max 75 kg / 165 lbs, max 30 cm / 12 in above seat cushion).
International Rules
UK/US to Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and UK to Australia include 2 checked bags (23 kg) as standard in Economy Classic/Delight. UK to South America includes 3 checked bags in Upper Class.
Tips to Avoid Fees
1. Book Economy Classic instead of Economy Light to get a free checked bag. 2. Join Flying Club Gold for an extra free checked bag (23 kg) on all Virgin Atlantic operated flights. 3. Pay for extra bags online in advance rather than at the airport to save money. 4. Ensure your carry-on is under 10 kg to avoid having to check it.
Unique Nuances
Flying Club Gold members get an extra piece of luggage (up to 23 kg) for free on all Virgin Atlantic operated flights. Lap infants get 1 free checked bag (23 kg) except in Economy Light. Upper Class passengers can bring a garment bag up to 20 cm (8 inches) thick as part of their hand baggage.