Ethiopian Airlines: Carry-On & Checked Bags Made Easy

We have covered a clear, easy-to-follow guide below on carry-on and checked baggage for Ethiopian Airlines, so you don’t have to worry about
the carry-on & checked-in baggage policy, and you can pack smart and avoid last-minute airport hassles.

Carry-On Check In

Carry-On Bags

You are allowed to have one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger on most fares in Ethiopian Airlines.

Carry-On Size

• Maximum size: 23 x 15 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm)

• Handles and wheels are included

• If you are carrying a large bag, it may be checked at the gate

Carry-On Weight

• Maximum weight: 7 kg (15 lbs)

Personal Item

• Must fit under the seat in front of you

• Examples:

1.Laptop bag

2. Small backpack

3.Handbag or purse

Prohibited Item in Carry On

Corrovives

Explosives

Flammable Liquids

Firerams (Undecared)

Blunt
Liquids > 100ml

Poisons / Toxics

Sharp Objects

Tools

What You Can Bring Inside

You can carry:	Not allowed in carry-on:
Clothes and personal items	Sharp objects
Electronics and chargers	Flammable items
Medicines and medical devices	Large liquid containers
Snacks and books	Anything restricted by airport security

Liquid Rules

International aviation security rules are followed in Ethiopian Airlines::

• 100 ml (3.4 oz) or a lesser quantity for liquids

• Liquids must be carried in one transparent, resealable 1-liter bag

Carry-On Allowance – Infant Rules

• Infants are allowed a small carry-on with baby essentials

• Items such as formula, baby food, and medicines are permitted

• Strollers and car seats are usually accepted free of charge (checked)

Stroller Guidelines

• Strollers can be checked at the counter or gate

• Foldable strollers may be taken through the aircraft door

• Large strollers are checked at the counter

Quick Carry-On Summary

• Thumb rule – 1 carry-on + 1 personal item

• Max weight: 7 kg

• Must meet size limits

• Liquid rules apply

Follow these limits, and you’re sorted.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage allowance on Ethiopian Airlines is influenced by:

Route

Fare type

Cabin class

Frequent-flyer status

Weight Limits

Class	Weight Limit per Bag
Economy Class	23 kg (50 lb)
Business Class	32 kg (70 lb)

ShebaMiles Elite Members Extra allowance may apply

Prohibited Item in Check-In

Corrovives

Explosives

Flammable Liquids

Poisons / Toxics

Checked Bag Size

• Maximum size: 62 linear inches (158 cm) (Length + Width + Height)

• Oversized bags incur extra charges

How Many Free Checked Bags?

• International Economy: Usually 2 free checked bags

• Business Class: Typically 2–3 free bags

• Domestic / Regional routes: May vary

Always check your ticket details for the exact allowance.

Typical Checked Baggage Fees

Fees apply if you exceed:

Free baggage allowance

Weight limit

Size limit

It’s best to confirm the baggage fees before traveling, because they are subject to the route.

Charges if the size and weight limits are exceeded

Extra fees apply for:

• Bags over the weight limit

• Bags over the size limit

• Additional bags beyond the allowance

These costs can accrue quickly at the airport.

Ethiopian Airlines Check-In

You can check in via:	Online check-in helps you:
Online check-in	View baggage allowance
Ethiopian Airlines mobile app	Save time at the airport
Airport kiosks
Airport counters

Carry-On vs Check-In

Carry it if	Check it if
It’s valuable	It’s heavy or bulky
You need it during the flight	It contains liquids
You want a quick exit after landing	It exceeds cabin size limits

Why Size Rules Matter

If you’re connecting to other airlines or regional flights, baggage rules may differ. A bag accepted on Ethiopian Airlines may not meet another airline’s limits.

Prohibited Items – Carry-On vs Checked Bags

Category	Carry-On	Checked Bag
Explosives & Fireworks	❌	❌
Flammable Items	❌	❌
Sharp Objects	❌	✅ (securely packed)
Firearms & Ammunition	❌	✅ (declared, locked case)
Batteries & Power Banks	✅ (carry-on only)	❌
Corrosives & Chemicals	❌	❌
Medical Oxygen	❌	✅ (approved only)
Dry Ice (≤ 2.5 kg)	✅	✅
Matches & Lighters	Limited	❌
Toiletries	✅	✅

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Luggage guidelines for Ethiopian Airlines?

Checked baggage is dependent on the route and ticket. For carry, one carry on and one personal item is accepted.

Carry-on size?

The maximum limit is 23 x 15 x 9 inches, up to 7 kg.

Carry-on bag fees?

Carry-on luggage is free of cost on most fare types; you don’t have to pay for it.

Checked baggage maximum weight limit?

23 kg for Economy, 32 kg for Business.

Liquid rules?

The 100 ml international liquid rule should be followed.

Items I can pack in my carry-on?

You can pack your clothes, electronics, medicines, and duty-free items.

Free checked bags?

Most international flights allow free checked bags.

Overweight or oversized bags?

Extra charges apply.

How to check in?

Check-in can be done via Online, app, kiosk, or airport counter.

Carry-on and checked bag difference?

You keep your carry-on with you; checked bags are sent to the aircraft hold.