How to Avoid Baggage Fees on Avianca Airlines: Smart Packing & Fare Tips

Baggage fees can turn a great airfare deal into a frustrating surprise—especially when you’re flying with a carrier that uses a tiered fare system like Avianca Airlines. Over a series of recent trips through Bogotá, Lima, and Miami, I learned firsthand how quickly luggage costs can add up if you’re not paying attention.

The good news?

Avianca offers several ways to avoid paying extra, but you need to understand their rules and plan ahead. If you pack smart and choose your fare wisely, you can fly comfortably without spending a single dollar on bags.

If you want a complete overview of the airline before booking, you can also check this helpful page about Avianca Airlines for more details

Here’s everything you need to know.

1. Choose the Right Fare: The #1 Way to Avoid Fees

Avianca doesn’t treat all fares the same. The airline uses a structure called “Vuela” fares, which control what you get—and what you pay for.

Here’s the quick breakdown:

• XS (Basic): No carry-on, no checked bag
• S (Light): 1 carry-on included
• M (Plus): 1 carry-on + 1 checked bag
• L (Flex): 1 carry-on + 1 or 2 checked bags depending on route

The trick is simple:

Pick the fare that already includes the bag you need.

If you know you’ll need a checked bag, buying an “M” or “L” fare is cheaper than paying baggage fees later.

Many travelers think the cheapest fare saves money… until they see they must pay:

• For the carry-on
• For the personal item, if oversized
• For seat selection
• For checked baggage

Choosing wisely upfront saves the most.

2. Know Exactly What “Personal Item” Means

Avianca is strict with personal item sizes. Too large, and they’ll charge you at boarding.

Your personal item must fit:

• Under the seat
• Within the size limits
• Without stretching or bulging

A safe choice is:

• A small backpack
• A laptop bag
• A compact tote

If your bag stands rigidly upright or looks bulky, expect attention from the gate staff.

3. Learn the Carry-On Rules (This Is Where People Get Surprised)

On many airlines, a carry-on is standard.

Not on Avianca.

Only some fares include a carry-on bag.

If you bought XS (the lowest), you are allowed:

• One personal item
• No carry-on

And Avianca checks closely. If you show up with two bags, they will charge you.

To avoid fees:

• Keep your bag within the allowed dimensions
• Distribute weight evenly
• Use soft-shell bags (they fit easier)

If you absolutely need a roller carry-on, upgrade your fare before you fly.

4. Consider Paying for Bags Online in Advance

If you know you’ll need extra luggage, do not wait until the airport.

Avianca offers lower baggage prices when paid:

• During booking
• Through the mobile app
• Online check-in

Airport fees can be almost double.

Smart flyers always add bags online—never at the gate.

5. Pack Strategically: Less Space, More Efficiency

If you want to stay within personal-item-only travel, packing efficiently becomes your superpower.

Some smart packing tips:

• Use packing cubes to compress clothes
• Wear your heaviest items on the flight
• Pack neutral clothing that mixes well
• Choose lightweight shoes
• Use a compact toiletry kit
• Roll your clothes instead of folding

A well-packed backpack can easily hold a week’s worth of clothes.

6. Know Route Exceptions (Long-Haul Flights Are More Generous)

On certain international routes—especially South America to Europe—Avianca includes:

• A full-size carry-on
• One free checked bag

But this depends heavily on the fare type and route. Always check the specific flight rules before assuming anything is included.

7. Check Your Credit Cards (You Might Have a Hidden Perk)

Some travel cards offer benefits even when booking low-cost fares, such as:

• Travel credits
• Free checked bag reimbursements
• General travel statement credits

If your card supports airline incidental fees, it might cover:

• Checked bag fees
• Seat selection
• Carry-on fees

Check your benefits—you might already have a way to offset the cost.

8. Don’t Overpack—Avianca Checks Weight Carefully

Even if your bag fits size limits, Avianca also checks:

• Weight of carry-on
• Weight of checked bags

If your bag is slightly overweight, they will charge extra.

Travelers often get caught here.

The easiest solution:

• Pack light
• Weigh your bag at home
• If it’s borderline, move heavy items into your pockets or personal item

9. If You’re Traveling with Family, Share Luggage Space

A family of four doesn’t need four checked bags.

You can save money by consolidating:

• Use one large checked bag for all heavier items
• Give each person a personal item
• Only pay for a carry-on where necessary

This cuts costs dramatically on round-trip flights.

My Final Verdict: Avianca Can Be Very Affordable—If You Play the Game Right

Avianca’s baggage system can feel confusing if you come from a full-service airline. But once you understand the fare levels, there’s nothing tricky about it. The key is simply choosing the right fare and packing wisely.

You can absolutely avoid baggage fees, but only if you:

✔ Check fare rules before booking

✔ Pack within personal item limits

✔ Upgrade your fare only when needed

✔ Add bags online, never at the airport

✔ Keep your luggage light and compact

Do this, and Avianca can be one of the most cost-effective ways to fly across Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.