Saudia Airlines Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215

Planning your journey with Saudia Airlines Baggage Policy is crucial to avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smooth travel experience. Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has specific rules regarding the size, weight, and number of bags you can bring, which vary depending on your ticket class, destination, and frequent flyer status. This guide breaks down the key elements of the Saudia Airlines baggage policy to help you pack smartly and travel hassle-free.

The Core: Free Checked Baggage Allowance

The foundation of the baggage policy is the free checked baggage allowance, which is primarily determined by your ticket class and frequent flyer status with Alfursan (Saudia's loyalty program). Here's a breakdown:

1. Economy Class:
   • Standard Allowance: Passengers traveling in Economy Class are typically entitled to 1 piece of checked baggage.
   • Weight Limit: Each piece must not exceed 23 kg (50 lbs).
   • Size Limit: Each piece must have linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) not exceeding 158 cm (62 inches).
   • Exceptions: Routes to/from the USA, Canada, Brazil, and certain other destinations often follow a weight-based system instead. On these routes, the standard allowance is usually 2 pieces, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs), totaling 46 kg (100 lbs) per passenger. Always verify your specific route's allowance on the Saudia website or booking confirmation.
2. Business Class:
   • Standard Allowance: Passengers in Business Class enjoy a more generous allowance, typically 2 pieces of checked baggage.
   • Weight Limit: Each piece must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs).
   • Size Limit: Each piece must have linear dimensions not exceeding 158 cm (62 inches).
   • Exceptions: Similar to Economy, routes to/from the USA, Canada, Brazil, etc., may offer a weight-based allowance, often 32 kg (70 lbs) total per passenger, regardless of the number of pieces (as long as total weight is within limit and each piece is under 32kg).
3. First Class:
   • Standard Allowance: First Class passengers receive the highest allowance, usually 3 pieces of checked baggage.
   • Weight Limit: Each piece must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs).
   • Size Limit: Each piece must have linear dimensions not exceeding 158 cm (62 inches).
   • Exceptions: Weight-based routes might offer 50 kg (110 lbs) total per passenger.

Important Considerations for Allowance:

• Infants: Infants (under 2 years) not occupying a seat typically receive 1 piece of checked baggage, usually with a weight limit of 10 kg (22 lbs) and size limit of 115 cm (45 inches) linear dimensions. They also get a fully collapsible stroller or pushchair and a car seat that can be checked for free.
• Alfursan Silver/Gold/Platinum Members: Alfursan members enjoy additional baggage benefits. Silver members often get an extra 10kg or an additional piece, Gold members an extra 20kg or two pieces, and Platinum members an extra 30kg or three pieces, depending on the route and fare type. Check the Alfursan benefits page for specifics related to your status and ticket.
• Route Variations: As mentioned, allowances can differ significantly based on the origin and destination of your flight, especially for routes involving the Americas. Always confirm your exact allowance using the baggage calculator tool on the Saudia website before you fly.
• Partner Airlines: If your itinerary includes flights operated by Saudia's partner airlines (like codeshare flights), their baggage policy may apply for those specific segments. Check the operating carrier's policy for those flights.

Excess Baggage: What Happens if You Go Over?

If your baggage exceeds the free allowance (either in number of pieces or total weight), you will be charged for excess baggage. Saudia's excess baggage fees can be substantial and are generally calculated per piece or per kilogram over the allowance.

• Payment: Excess fees are usually much higher if paid at the airport compared to pre-paying online via the Saudia website or app. Pre-paying is highly recommended if you anticipate exceeding your allowance.
• Calculation: Fees vary based on:
  • The route (long-haul vs. short-haul)
  • The class of travel
  • Whether you pay online or at the airport
  • The weight/number of excess pieces
• Example (Illustrative Only - Check Current Rates): A single extra bag weighing 25kg on a long-haul economy flight paid online might cost significantly less than the same bag paid for at check-in. Fees can easily reach several hundred dollars per piece for heavy overages on international flights.
• Tip: If you know you'll need extra baggage, buying it online in advance is almost always cheaper. Saudia often offers pre-purchase options during online check-in or on their website.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

In addition to checked baggage, Saudia allows passengers to bring carry-on items:

1. One Standard Carry-On Bag:
   • Weight: Must not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs).
   • Size: Must fit within the overhead bin. Maximum dimensions are typically 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 10 inches) including handles and wheels.
   • Content: Should fit easily in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you.
2. One Personal Item:
   • Examples: A small handbag, laptop bag, purse, or small backpack.
   • Size: Should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

Important Carry-On Rules:

• Liquids: Follow the standard IATA regulations: liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 100ml (3.4oz) or less must be placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag (max 1 liter capacity). Essential medicines and baby food may be exempt with proof.
• Electronic Devices: Large electronic devices like laptops and tablets may need to be removed from bags and screened separately at security.
• Prohibited Items: Sharp objects, flammable materials, weapons, etc., are strictly prohibited in carry-on luggage. Check Saudia's prohibited items list.
• Overhead Bin Space: Saudia prioritizes boarding for passengers with special needs and families with infants. While they strive to accommodate all carry-on bags, overhead bin space can sometimes be limited, especially on full flights. Arriving at the gate early is advisable.

Special Baggage Items

Saudia accommodates certain special items, often for an additional fee:

• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (like a violin) can sometimes be carried as a personal item if they fit within the size/weight limits. Larger instruments (like a guitar or cello) usually require checking as a separate piece of baggage, subject to size, weight, and fee rules. Professional instruments may have specific handling requirements.
• Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, bicycles, surfboards, diving equipment, skis, etc., require special handling. They count towards your baggage allowance or incur extra fees based on weight/size. Specific packaging requirements often apply (e.g., bikes must have pedals removed, handlebars turned sideways, and be in a protective case). Fees can be high; check the specific rates for your item.
• Pets: Saudia allows pets to travel in the cabin (small cats/dogs in approved carriers) or as checked baggage in the hold (in approved IATA compliant crates). Strict regulations apply regarding breed, health certificates, vaccinations, and carrier specifications. Cabin pet fees apply. Pet travel must be arranged well in advance.
• Valuable Items: Saudia recommends carrying valuable items (jewelry, cash, important documents, laptops) in your carry-on luggage. They are not liable for loss or damage to valuables in checked baggage.
• Fragile Items: Saudia accepts fragile items but does not accept liability for damage unless packed in a specifically designed hard-shell container and declared as fragile at check-in (for an additional fee). Packing is crucial.
• Oversized/Overweight Baggage: Baggage exceeding the standard size or weight limits (but still within maximum limits of 32 kg and 203cm linear dimensions) will incur significant excess fees and requires special handling.

Baggage Tracking and Claims

• Tracking: Saudia provides a baggage tracking service via their website or app. You can check the status of your checked baggage online.
• Delayed/Damaged/lost Baggage: If your baggage is delayed, damaged, or lost, report it immediately at the baggage service office at the airport of arrival. You will need your baggage claim tag stubs. Saudia has a process for filing claims; details can be found on their website. Keep receipts for essential items purchased due to delayed baggage.