When planning air travel, one of the most important factors to consider is the baggage policy of the airline. Each carrier sets its own rules for what passengers can bring on board, how much luggage can be checked in, and what fees may apply for excess baggage. Singapore Airlines, one of the most prestigious airlines in the world, offers a structured baggage policy designed to balance passenger convenience with operational efficiency.
Understanding these policies is crucial to avoid unexpected charges, delays, or inconvenience at the airport. This article provides a detailed overview of Singapore Airlines’ baggage policies, including allowances for different classes of service, rules for carry-on items, special provisions for infants and sports equipment, excess baggage fees, and practical tips to make your journey smooth.
Overview of Singapore Airlines’ Baggage Policy
Singapore Airlines operates on two primary systems depending on the route:
- Weight Concept – Applied to most international routes except those to and from the United States. This system allows passengers to check in baggage up to a specified total weight, regardless of the number of pieces.
- Piece Concept – Applied to flights to and from the United States. Under this system, passengers are allowed a specific number of checked baggage pieces, each with its own maximum weight and size limits.
Both systems are designed to accommodate different travel markets and international standards.
Carry-On or Cabin Baggage Allowance
Every passenger on Singapore Airlines is entitled to bring cabin baggage, often referred to as carry-on baggage, onboard. The allowance depends on the class of service:
- Suites and First Class: Two pieces of carry-on baggage are allowed. Each must not exceed a certain size, typically 115 centimeters in total linear dimensions, and the combined weight should not exceed seven kilograms each.
- Business Class: Passengers are permitted two pieces under the same size and weight restrictions as First Class.
- Premium Economy and Economy Class: Only one piece of carry-on baggage is allowed, again up to seven kilograms and within the standard size limit.
In addition to carry-on luggage, passengers may bring one personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. Items like umbrellas, cameras, and reading material are generally accepted as personal items as long as they meet size and weight requirements.
Restrictions for Cabin Baggage
- Liquids, aerosols, and gels must be in containers of no more than 100 milliliters each. All containers must fit into a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one liter.
- Prohibited items such as sharp objects, flammable materials, and certain tools cannot be brought onboard.
- Duty-free items purchased at the airport may be carried as additional cabin items, provided they meet security regulations.
Checked Baggage Allowance under the Weight Concept
For most routes excluding those involving the United States, Singapore Airlines applies the weight system. The allowance depends on the class of travel and frequent flyer membership status.
- Suites and First Class: Up to 50 kilograms of checked baggage.
- Business Class: Up to 40 kilograms.
- Premium Economy Class: Up to 35 kilograms.
- Economy Class: Between 25 to 35 kilograms depending on the fare type. Basic economy fares usually allow 25 kilograms, while higher economy tiers provide 30 or 35 kilograms.
KrisFlyer Elite and Star Alliance Gold Members
Frequent flyer members enjoy additional baggage allowances. KrisFlyer Elite Gold and Star Alliance Gold members typically receive an extra 20 kilograms of baggage on top of their standard allowance.
Checked Baggage Allowance under the Piece Concept
For flights to and from the United States, Singapore Airlines uses the piece system:
- Suites and First Class: Two pieces of checked baggage, each up to 32 kilograms.
- Business Class: Two pieces, each up to 32 kilograms.
- Premium Economy and Economy Class: Two pieces, each up to 23 kilograms.
Frequent flyer members may also enjoy an additional piece of baggage allowance depending on their tier.
Size Restrictions for Checked Baggage
Singapore Airlines requires that each checked baggage piece does not exceed 158 centimeters in total linear dimensions (length plus width plus height). This applies across both the weight and piece concepts.
Oversized baggage may be accepted but usually incurs additional charges.
Special Allowances for Infants
Infants traveling without a separate seat are allowed one piece of checked baggage up to 23 kilograms under the piece concept or 10 kilograms under the weight concept. Additionally, passengers can check in one fully collapsible stroller or pushchair and one car seat free of charge.
Sports Equipment
Singapore Airlines is accommodating toward sports equipment such as golf clubs, skis, bicycles, and surfboards. These items are counted as part of the standard baggage allowance. If they exceed the allowance, excess baggage fees apply.
Passengers should check in advance for specific handling requirements, especially for oversized or fragile equipment. Bicycles often need to be packed in special boxes for safe transportation.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can be carried as part of the cabin baggage allowance if they fit within the size and weight restrictions. Larger instruments such as cellos can be transported in the cabin if a separate seat is purchased. Alternatively, they can be checked in, subject to the applicable baggage allowance and fees.
Excess Baggage Policy
If baggage exceeds the standard allowance, passengers must pay excess baggage fees. The cost depends on the route and whether the weight or piece system applies.
- Under the weight concept: Excess baggage is charged per kilogram, with rates varying depending on the region.
- Under the piece concept: Fees are charged per additional piece or for overweight and oversized pieces.
Booking excess baggage online in advance often provides discounted rates compared to paying at the airport.
Cabin Baggage for Children
Children with their own purchased seat are entitled to the same cabin baggage allowance as adults in their class of travel. Infant food, milk, and other necessities may be carried onboard, provided they comply with security regulations.
Special Baggage Considerations
Mobility Devices
Wheelchairs, walking aids, and other mobility devices are carried free of charge in addition to the standard allowance for passengers with reduced mobility.
Fragile and Valuable Items
While passengers can check in fragile or valuable items, Singapore Airlines recommends carrying such items as cabin baggage whenever possible. Items like jewelry, important documents, and electronics should always be carried in the cabin for safety.
Firearms and Dangerous Goods
Firearms and ammunition may be carried only with proper permits and must be declared at check-in. Dangerous goods such as explosives, corrosives, and toxic substances are strictly prohibited.
Tips for Passengers
- Weigh Bags in Advance – To avoid surprises at the airport, weigh your bags before leaving home.
- Check Route-Specific Rules – Confirm whether your route uses the weight or piece system, as this significantly impacts your allowance.
- Use Online Tools – Singapore Airlines’ website offers a baggage calculator to check allowances based on route and class.
- Pack Efficiently – Use lightweight suitcases and organize items to maximize space.
- Purchase Excess Allowance Early – If you expect to exceed your limit, buy additional allowance online before traveling to save money.
- Label Bags Clearly – Ensure your name and contact details are on all bags to prevent loss or confusion.
Baggage Policy During Codeshare Flights
If a flight is operated by a partner airline under a codeshare agreement, the baggage policy of the operating carrier may apply. It is essential to confirm this at the time of booking to avoid confusion at the airport.
Handling Delayed or Lost Baggage
In the rare event that baggage is delayed or lost, passengers should immediately report the issue at the airport’s Singapore Airlines baggage service counter. A Property Irregularity Report is filed, and the airline provides tracking updates. Compensation may be provided for essential purchases if baggage is delayed.
The Importance of Travel Insurance
Even with clear baggage policies, unexpected issues such as loss, theft, or damage may occur. Travel insurance provides an extra layer of protection, covering costs that may not be fully compensated by the airline.
Conclusion
Singapore Airlines’ baggage policies are designed with clarity and fairness in mind, offering generous allowances across its cabins while aligning with international aviation standards. The airline applies two different systems depending on the route: the weight concept for most destinations and the piece concept for flights to and from the United States.
Passengers enjoy varying allowances based on class of service, with Suites and First Class receiving the most generous provisions. Additional benefits are available for frequent flyer members. Special categories, including infants, sports equipment, musical instruments, and mobility devices, are well accommodated within the policies.
To make the most of these allowances, travelers should familiarize themselves with the specific rules for their route and class, weigh their bags in advance, and take advantage of online tools and discounts for excess baggage. By doing so, passengers can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey without the worry of unexpected baggage fees or restrictions.
In essence, Singapore Airlines combines flexibility with structure in its baggage policies, reflecting its broader commitment to premium service and customer satisfaction. By understanding these policies in detail, travelers can plan ahead, pack wisely, and focus on enjoying their journey with one of the world’s finest airlines.