How to Handle Volaris Baggage Fees: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

When flying with low-cost carriers like Volaris, understanding the baggage policy is crucial to avoiding hidden costs and ensuring your travel experience remains affordable. Volaris baggage fees are separate from the cost of the flight, meaning that your ticket price only covers the seat. To help you navigate the extra costs associated with baggage, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will explain everything you need to know about Volaris baggage fees, from carry-ons to checked luggage and everything in between.

By the end of this post, you'll be better equipped to make smart decisions regarding your luggage, ensuring that you’re not blindsided by unnecessary charges during your journey.

What Are Volaris Baggage Fees?

Volaris, a prominent budget airline, offers competitive fares with the option for passengers to pay extra for baggage, seat selection, and other amenities. While their base fares are low, travelers should expect to pay for any baggage beyond a small personal item. The fees for baggage vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of bag, weight, and whether you choose to purchase it at the time of booking or at the airport.

In addition to its budget-friendly ticket prices, Volaris provides flexibility for travelers to choose how much baggage they want to bring. However, this comes at a cost, which is why understanding the baggage rules and planning ahead is essential to avoid costly fees later.

Types of Baggage on Volaris Flights

Volaris offers three primary types of baggage: personal items, carry-on baggage, and checked luggage. Each of these types has different rules and fees associated with them. Let’s dive into the specifics of each to give you a better idea of how the Volaris baggage policy works.

1. Personal Items (Free)

One of the most important things to know is that Volaris allows each passenger to bring a small personal item free of charge. This can include items such as a backpack, purse, small duffel bag, or briefcase. However, the size limit for personal items is strict—typically around 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm). If your personal item exceeds this size, you will need to pay for a larger carry-on bag.

Packing light and maximizing your free personal item can be an excellent strategy for avoiding baggage fees altogether, especially on short trips. Just be mindful of the size restrictions to make sure your bag fits under the seat in front of you.

2. Carry-On Bags (Fee Applies)

If you need more space than a personal item can offer, Volaris allows you to bring a carry-on bag for a fee. The standard carry-on dimensions are typically 22 x 16 x 10 inches (55 x 40 x 25 cm), and the weight limit is usually around 22 pounds (10 kg). Fees for carry-on baggage depend on when you choose to purchase it. Booking your carry-on in advance online usually results in lower fees, while buying it at the airport can be considerably more expensive.

It’s important to note that if your carry-on bag exceeds the weight or size limit, you will either need to check it in or pay an additional fee. So, double-check your bag’s dimensions and weight before arriving at the airport to avoid any unexpected costs.

3. Checked Baggage (Additional Fees Apply)

Checked baggage allows you to bring larger and heavier items, but it comes with extra fees. Volaris permits each passenger to check in bags with a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag. The total combined dimensions (length + width + height) of checked baggage should not exceed 62 inches (158 cm).

If you plan to check in multiple bags or exceed the weight limit, you will incur additional charges. The first checked bag generally comes with a fee, and each subsequent bag will cost more. The good news is that Volaris lets passengers pre-purchase their baggage online, which can save you money compared to buying baggage allowance at the airport.

4. Oversized and Overweight Bags (Additional Charges)

Volaris is very strict about oversized and overweight luggage. Bags weighing more than 50 pounds (23 kg) or exceeding the size limit of 62 inches (158 cm) will incur hefty fees. In some cases, oversized or overweight baggage may not even be accepted, depending on the specific route or aircraft.

To avoid these high fees, try to pack efficiently and make use of the available baggage limits. If you need to bring an oversized or heavy item like sports equipment, consider calling Volaris ahead of time to inquire about the special baggage policies and additional fees for such items.

Tips for Reducing Volaris Baggage Fees

While baggage fees are an inevitable part of traveling with budget airlines, there are several ways to minimize these costs. Here are some tips to help you save money when it comes to your luggage:

1. Pack Smart and Light

One of the most effective ways to avoid paying for additional baggage is to pack light. By carefully selecting your clothing and travel essentials, you can fit everything you need into a personal item or carry-on bag. Remember, Volaris allows a personal item free of charge, and by packing efficiently, you can avoid having to check in a bag altogether.

2. Book Your Baggage in Advance

Booking baggage allowance at the time of booking or at least 24 hours in advance is a great way to save money on baggage fees. Volaris offers discounted rates for passengers who purchase baggage before arriving at the airport. This can often be much cheaper than paying for baggage on the day of the flight.

3. Take Advantage of Bundle Packages

Volaris offers several packages that include baggage, seat selection, and other perks. If you know you’ll need both checked baggage and a carry-on, consider purchasing a bundle package that includes both. This can be cheaper than purchasing each service separately.

4. Avoid Last-Minute Purchases at the Airport

As mentioned, purchasing baggage at the airport can be significantly more expensive than booking it in advance. If you forget to pre-purchase your baggage or need extra allowance, be prepared for higher fees at the airport. Plan ahead to avoid these additional charges.

5. Use Travel-Friendly Luggage

Consider investing in travel-friendly luggage that is designed to fit within airline restrictions. Many travel brands make carry-on bags that are perfectly sized to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. Using these bags will help you avoid paying for larger checked luggage or paying extra for oversized baggage.

How to Pay for Volaris Baggage Fees

Volaris offers several methods for paying baggage fees, with the option to pay online, via the airline's mobile app, or at the airport. The cheapest option is typically to book your baggage during the initial booking process or well in advance of your flight.

When booking your baggage, you’ll usually see an option to select the type and quantity of baggage you’ll need. You can pay for personal items, carry-ons, and checked bags at this point. If you need to make changes to your baggage allowance, Volaris allows you to modify your purchase through your online account or the app.

Conclusion: Maximizing Value with Volaris Baggage Fees

Volaris baggage fees are a common aspect of flying with this budget airline, but with a little planning, you can minimize your costs. By understanding the different baggage types and following the tips provided, you can avoid paying for unnecessary baggage fees and keep your overall travel expenses in check.

Whether you choose to pack light, take advantage of bundle deals, or pre-purchase your baggage allowance, planning ahead is the key to saving on Volaris baggage fees. With these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the baggage policies, ensuring a smoother and more affordable trip from start to finish.

By staying informed about the rules and making the right choices when it comes to your luggage, you can keep your travel experience stress-free and focus on enjoying your trip instead of worrying about extra charges.