Turkish Airlines Checked Baggage Fees and Policy Guide
Understanding the Turkish Airlines baggage policy in 2026 is key to a smooth trip. Unlike some airlines, Turkish Airlines often provides a generous free
allowance with your ticket. Fees only apply when you exceed these limits.
First Checked Bag
Your first checked bag is usually included for free. This is the best news for travelers! The airline’s policy is based on two systems: the Weight Concept (total kilograms) or the Piece Concept (number of bags). For instance, many international Economy tickets include 20 kg or one 23 kg bag. As long as your first bag is within the size and weight limits on your ticket, you will not pay a Turkish Airlines checked baggage fee.
Second Checked Bag
If your journey uses the Piece Concept—like flights to or from the United States—you may need a second bag. This is when an extra fee is charged. This Turkish Airlines extra baggage cost varies a lot depending on your route’s region. The fee for a second checked bag can start from around $165, but can be much higher if purchased at the airport. You should always buy extra baggage online on Turkish Airlines website. This is to get the best rates.
Third Checked Bag
A third bag incurs additional fees. Planning ahead and packing wisely helps avoid surprises at the airport. Frequent travelers benefit from prepayment discounts, especially on long-haul flights.A third bag incurs additional fees. Planning ahead and packing wisely helps avoid surprises at the airport. Frequent travelers benefit from prepayment discounts, especially on long-haul flights.
Note: Always check your specific flight details, as the rules change based on your destination.
Exceptions to Turkish Airlines’ Checked Baggage Fee
Some passengers get extra free baggage automatically. Knowing these exceptions can save you a lot of money.
| Passenger / Item | Additional Free Allowance (Beyond Standard) | Key Conditions |
| Infant Passengers (Children 0–2 years) | Piece Concept: 1 × 23 kg piece or Weight Concept: 10 kg | Infant must be seated on an adult’s lap and traveling with an adult companion. |
| Collapsible Stroller / Buggy | 1 fully collapsible item | Total dimensions must not exceed 115 cm. |
| Miles&Smiles Elite Card Holders | Piece Concept: 1 extra piece or Weight Concept: +20 kg | Applies to both Economy and Business Class passengers. |
| Miles&Smiles Elite Plus Card Holders | Piece Concept: 1 extra piece or Weight Concept: +25 kg | Applies to both Economy and Business Class passengers. |
| Star Alliance Gold Card Holders | Piece Concept: 1 extra piece or Weight Concept: +20 kg | Reciprocal benefit across all Star Alliance airlines. |
| Public Servants (Domestic Turkey) | Waiver of weapons carriage fees | Requires proper documentation and prior security approval. |
Tips to Reduce Turkish Airlines Baggage Fees
Use the Calculator: Always check your exact limit and estimated fees using the official Turkish Airlines baggage calculator before you travel.
Pre-Pay Online: Don’t wait until you reach the airport to buy extra baggage. The prepaid Turkish Airlines baggage price is quite a bit lower when you pay online. You can use the app as well. You can sometimes save up to 50% just by paying earlier.
Check Fare Types: Try to stay aware of your fare type, especially if you booked the Turkish Airlines EcoFly ticket. It’s generally the cheapest one and often includes little or almost no free checked luggage.
Use Your Status for Free Allowance: If you hold Miles&Smiles Elite or Elite Plus status (or Star Alliance Gold), you are automatically entitled to a significant additional baggage allowance free of charge (e.g., 20 kg or 25 kg on Weight Concept routes, or 1 extra piece on Piece Concept routes). This is the highest-value option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much does it cost to check a bag on Turkish Airlines?
A: For most travelers, the initial Turkish Airlines checked baggage fee is zero, as the cost is covered by your ticket. Fees only apply when you exceed your free allowance.
Q: What is the Turkish Airlines oversized baggage fee?
A: If a bag is larger than the maximum permitted size (158 cm total linear dimensions), it is considered oversized. You will have to pay an additional fee that can be quite high. Remember that no single bag can exceed 32 kg.
Q: What are Turkish Airlines bag limits for Economy Class?
A: Limits vary. On Weight Concept routes, it is generally 20 kg. On Piece Concept routes (like to the USA), it is typically two bags at 23 kg (50 lbs) each. But can also be one bag depending on your fare.
Q: Does the basic Economy “EcoFly” fare include free checked baggage on international flights?
A: Generally, no. For international flights, the lowest-tier EcoFly fare typically does not include free checked baggage. If you purchase this fare for an international route and wish to check a bag, you will need to purchase the baggage allowance separately. Try to do it online only as at the airport you may face higher fee.