Knowing Air New Zealand's baggage policies ahead of time makes flying with them much simpler. Air New Zealand Baggage Policy is intended to provide passengers with flexibility and clarity, regardless of whether they are traveling domestically, across the Tasman, or on a lengthy foreign vacation. Carry-on regulations, checked baggage limits, extra baggage fees, unique items, and time-and money-saving advice are all broken down in this post before your trip.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Air New Zealand offers convenient cabin baggage limits based on your ticket type and travel class.
1. Economy Class
- Allowance: 1 carry-on bag + 1 small personal item (handbag, laptop bag, or duty-free).
- Weight Limit: Up to 7 kg total.
- Size Limit: Maximum of 118 cm (height + width + depth), typically 56 × 36 × 23 cm.
2. Premium Economy, Business Premier & Airpoints Elite/Gold
- Allowance: 2 cabin bags + 1 personal item.
- Combined Weight: Up to 14 kg, with no single item exceeding 10 kg.
If your carry-on exceeds the size or weight limit, it will need to be checked, and excess baggage fees may apply.
Checked Baggage Allowance
Your checked baggage allowance with Air New Zealand depends on your fare type, destination, and cabin class.
1. Domestic Flights (New Zealand)
- Seat Only: No checked bag included.
- Seat + Bag: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Flexi Time & Smart Saver: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Flexi Plus: 2 bags, each up to 23 kg.
2. Tasman & Pacific Island Flights
- Seat Only: No checked bag.
- Seat + Bag: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Flexi Fares: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Premium Economy/Business Premier: 2 bags up to 23 kg each.
3. Long-Haul International Flights
- Economy Class: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Premium Economy: 2 bags up to 23 kg each.
- Business Premier: 3 bags up to 23 kg each.
- Airpoints Elite/Gold/Koru Members: May receive 1 additional bag depending on route and ticket type.
Each checked bag must measure no more than 158 cm (L + W + H).
Excess Baggage Policy
If your luggage exceeds the allowed number, weight, or size, additional fees apply.
1. Overweight Bags
- The maximum allowed weight per bag is 32 kg.
- Bags between 23–32 kg incur an overweight fee.
- Bags over 32 kg must be repacked or shipped as cargo.
2. Extra Bags
You can book additional checked bags online for a lower fee compared to airport charges.
Approximate fees (may vary by route):
- Domestic: NZD $30–$60 per extra bag.
- Tasman/Pacific: NZD $70–$100 per bag.
- Long-Haul: USD $100–$200 per bag.
Booking extra bags before arrival at the airport is always more affordable.
3. Oversized Bags
Items exceeding 158 cm in total dimensions incur oversized baggage charges. Items over 292 cm are generally shipped as unaccompanied baggage or cargo.
Tips to Save on Baggage Costs
Here are some smart tactics to avoid surprises:
- Buy extra bags online: It’s usually up to 50% cheaper.
- Weigh your bags at home: Avoid last-minute overweight fees.
- Use Airpoints or add-ons: Frequent flyers often gain extra allowances.
- Travel light on domestic routes: Choose fares with checked bags if needed.
- Share baggage with family: Multiple passengers on one booking can distribute weight.
Conclusion
The secret to a hassle-free and reasonably priced journey is knowing Air New Zealand's baggage policy. The airline provides a variety of alternatives to suit the needs of various travelers, ranging from carry-ons and checked baggage to special equipment and big products. Knowing your fare type, weighing your bags before you go, and buying additional in advance if necessary are the best ways to prevent surprises.
Whether you're traveling halfway around the world, across New Zealand, or across the Pacific, these tips will make the beginning of your trip less stressful and more affordable.