Virgin Atlantic Airways Baggage Policy: Carry-On, Checked, and Excess Luggage

• Understanding Virgin Atlantic's baggage allowances can help you avoid surprise fees when flying. Here is a detailed guide to Virgin Atlantic's carry-on, checked baggage, and excess luggage policies.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

• All Virgin Atlantic passengers are permitted 1 piece of carry-on baggage plus 1 personal item.

• Carry-On Bag Size and Weight Restrictions

• Your carry-on bag must not exceed 56 x 36 x 23 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches) including handles and wheels. The maximum weight is 10 kg (22 lbs).

• Overhead bins on Virgin Atlantic aircraft can accommodate carry-on bags up to 25 x 40 x 55 cm. Larger bags must be checked.

• Personal Item Size Restrictions

• In addition to a carry-on bag, travelers can bring 1 small personal item like a purse, laptop bag, or duty-free purchase. Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Allowance

• Virgin Atlantic's checked baggage allowance depends on your cabin class and destination.

• Economy Class

• The free checked baggage allowance for economy class passengers is:

• Flights within the UK: 1 bag up to 23 kg

• Transatlantic flights: 2 bags up to 23 kg each

• All other international flights: 1 or 2 bags up to 23 kg each

• Premium and Upper Class

• Passengers in Premium and Upper class enjoy generous baggage allowances:

• Flights within the UK: 2 bags up to 23 kg

• Transatlantic flights: 3 bags up to 32 kg each

• All other international flights: 2 or 3 bags up to 32 kg each

Overweight/Oversize Baggage Fees

• Exceeding the standard baggage dimensions or weight will result in excess fees:

• Overweight bags (24-32 kg): £65 per bag

• Very overweight bags (32-45 kg): £130 per bag

• Oversize bags: £65 per bag

• Bags exceeding 45 kg will not be accepted.

Excess Baggage Fees

• If you go over your free checked baggage allowance, you will be charged per extra bag:

• UK flights: £40 per extra bag

• Transatlantic flights: $100 per extra bag

• Other international flights: £65 per extra bag

• These excess luggage fees apply at the airport. You can pre-purchase extra luggage online for discounted rates.

Special Baggage Policies

• Virgin Atlantic offers special baggage allowances for sports equipment, musical instruments, specialty items, and traveling with infants.

• Golf clubs, bicycles, surfboards and most sports gear is included in your free checked allowance. Oversized equipment may incur fees. Fragile items like antiques and electronics may require special handling for a £40 fee.

• Infants without a purchased seat may check 1 stroller/buggy and 1 infant carrier for free.

Connecting Flights and Baggage Rules

• For connecting flights on Virgin Atlantic, your checked baggage allowance is based on the most generous allowance offered by either flight.

• Carry-on baggage must comply with the tightest restrictions in place on any segment. Always verify size and weight limits for carry-ons when connecting flights.

Tips for Checking Bags with Virgin Atlantic

• Weigh your checked bags at home and adjust contents if needed to avoid overweight fees.

• Put any valuables, medications, or electronics in your carry-on rather than checked bags.

• Arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before an international flight to allow time for baggage drop.

• Print your baggage tags in advance when possible for faster airport check-in.

• Know your free baggage allowance and be ready to pay for oversize, overweight bags, or excess luggage.

Virgin Atlantic Baggage Policy FAQs

• How early should I arrive at the airport to check bags on a Virgin Atlantic flight?

•     Arrive at least 2.5-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a UK flight. This provides adequate time to drop off checked luggage before the baggage deadline.

• What are the carry-on baggage dimensions for Virgin Atlantic?

•     Carry-on bags can be up to 56 x 36 x 23 cm but some overhead bins only fit bags up to 25 x 40 x 55 cm. Personal items must fit under the seat.

• What is Virgin Atlantic's policy for transporting bicycles?

•     Bicycles count as standard checked baggage on Virgin Atlantic, included in your free allowance. You must partially disassemble and pack them in a bike box or bag. Oversized fees may apply.

• Can I pay for extra checked bags online before my Virgin Atlantic flight?

•     Yes, you can pre-purchase extra luggage allowance on Virgin Atlantic's website. This saves you money compared to paying excess baggage fees at the airport.

• What happens if my bags exceed the weight or size limits?

•     Overweight and oversized bags incur excess fees when checking in ranging from £65-£130 per bag based on severity. Bags over 45 kg will be rejected.

• Are there any restrictions on the contents of checked baggage for Virgin Atlantic flights?

•     Yes, some items like flammable liquids, corrosives, and pressurized containers are restricted. Sports equipment must be properly packed to avoid injury.

• What should I do if my baggage is damaged or lost on my Virgin Atlantic flight?

•     Notify Virgin Atlantic staff at your destination airport as soon as possible. Provide your baggage tag receipts and description of the damage or contents. File a claim report to start the compensation process.

• Does Virgin Atlantic offer any baggage fee waivers or special allowances?

•     Virgin Atlantic does not currently offer any baggage fee waivers. Discounted extra luggage can be purchased online in advance. Elite status flyers receive extra weight allowances.

• What is the policy for transporting surfboards on Virgin Atlantic?

•     One surfboard is included in your standard free checked baggage allowance. Extra surfboards can be checked for a £65 oversize fee. Boards must be packed properly in suitable surfboard bags.

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