Did you know Cathay Pacific has been ranked among the top three airlines in the world for 2025? If you’re planning to fly with them, that’s already a great start to your journey. But before you even think about packing, let’s talk about Cathay Pacific baggage allowance, because nothing spoils a trip faster than surprise fees at the airport. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: weight and size limits, and smart packing tips to help you breeze from check-in to boarding. Ready? Let’s dive in.

If you’re in the market for a new cabin bag, check out this selection of Cathay Pacific-approved backpacks.

Overview of Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific is Hong Kong's flag carrier based at Hong Kong International Airport. As a founding member of the oneworld Alliance, the airline has a long history of bridging the world through its Hong Kong hub. It now serves about 80 destinations across Asia, North America, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. 

In 2025, Cathay Pacific just landed in the top three best airlines worldwide at the 2025 Skytrax Awards, only after tough contenders like Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways. The Hong Kong airline also secured the other two prizes, "World’s Best Economy Class Airline" and "World’s Best Inflight Entertainment". 

Cathay Pacific carry-on policies are quite standard, at 7kg for Economy cabin bags, just like Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. However, the airline stands out in the competition with its checked bag policies. For years, it has been offering two free checked bags for every passenger on every fare. It’s a big perk in a world where many carriers are trimming allowances. We’ll dive into the specs just right below. 

Cathay Pacific Baggage Allowance - Carry-On Policy

Cathay Pacific hand luggage size restriction.

Cathay Pacific allows passengers to bring one main cabin bag and one small personal item (such as a handbag or laptop) into the cabin.

• The size limit for carry-on luggage is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).

• Meanwhile, the dimensions for a personal item are specified at 6 x 12 x 16 inches (15 x 30 x 40 cm), to make sure it fits easily under the seat in front. 

Cathay Pacific baggage weight allowance for your carry-ons will mostly depend on your class of travel, as follows: 

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Cathay Pacific Baggage Allowance - Checked Bag Policy

What is the size limit for check-in baggage? Cathay Pacific's baggage rules use either a piece or weight system, and again, depending on where you're flying. Whenever you go, however, your checked bag shouldn't be any larger than 203 cm (80 inches) in total size (length + width + height). 

What is the baggage allowance of economy class passengers? For standard Economy tickets, you can check in up to 2 pieces of luggage into the hold, with a total weight not to exceed 30kg. If you're flying premium economy, that limit goes up to 35kg, and if you're in business class, you get a generous 45kg of baggage allowance. Here’s more detailed info about Cathay Pacific Airlines' baggage limit for checked bags on different routes.

On most flights by Cathay Pacific

Except  flights between Hong Kong and Auckland/Christchurch/to and from the Americas

On flights between Hong Kong and Auckland/Christchurch

On direct flights to and from the Americas

Excess Baggage Fees 

What happens if your bag is over 23kg? You should be aware of the excess baggage fee if you step over this standard checked bag limit. Cathay Pacific charges different rates for excess bags depending on your travel zones. Normally, the fees are from $60 to $150 per overweight item. The airline won't accept any single bag that weighs more than 32 kg. 

For oversized items that are bigger than 158 cm (length + width + height), you'll have to pay an extra $200. Due to safety reasons, passengers can’t fly with any item that’s larger than 203 cm, according to Cathay Pacific.

Sports Equipment And CPAP

You can fly with sports equipment as part of your standard baggage allowance. Photo by anatoliy_gleb on Adobe Stock

For most sports equipment, you can bring it as part of your standard checked bag allowance. Acceptable items can be hockey sticks, fishing rods, golf clubs, or surfing gear, etc. It’s important to note that your gear should stay within the limits specified for checked bags. For bicycles, you need to contact the airline at least 72 hours before your departure to confirm space availability. 

According to Cathay Pacific's baggage policy, you can bring a CPAP into the cabin. It’s a medical device, and thus, won’t count towards your carry-on luggage limit. If you want to use your CPAP machine in-flight, just make sure to notify the airline 48 hours before the flight and fill out the MEDA forms.

Musical Instrument

You have 3 options when flying with a musical instrument on a Cathay Pacific aircraft. 

• As carry-on luggage: Your instrument should not exceed the dimensions of 93 x 39 x 24 cm and the weight of 7kg (case included).

• On a purchased seat: For larger items like a cello, not exceeding 136 x 48 x 44cm and 32kg, that you think are too fragile to check in.

• Checked into the cargo hold: Cumbersome musical instruments, like guitars or cellos, beyond the cabin limits should be checked into the hold. However, these items should also stick to checked bag weight and size limits.

Infants and Children’s Baggage Allowance

Good news for dads and moms. Cathay Pacific is among the most awesome airlines for parents. Cathay Pacific allows you to bring one small bag and a collapsible stroller on board free of charge. The collapsible stroller should stay within the standard cabin bag size. 

The Hong Kong flagship airline also offers one free checked bag for lap infants, which is uncommon among airlines. Plus, strollers and car seats can be checked without an extra fee. This is in addition to the two pieces of luggage you’re entitled to. This policy applies to all classes except Economy Basic fare. 

How To Maximise Baggage Allowance for Cathay Pacific?

Handy tips to save on baggage fees.

Want to make the most of your Cathay Pacific baggage allowance and avoid surprise fees at the airport? Here’s where you should start.

Join the Club

There's a sweet bonus for your luggage if you join Cathay Pacific's loyalty program. If you’re a Marco Polo Silver or Gold member, you can take 10 kg (22 lbs) in Economy, Premium Economy, or Business. If you're flying First Class, your checked bag allowance jumps to 15 kg (33 lbs). Diamond members are entitled to 15 kg (33 lbs) no matter which cabin they fly in.

Pack Smarter

To pack smart for your trip, it's not about packing less, but packing more efficiently. You can lighten your load from the start by swapping your heavy suitcase for a lighter option. A lightweight backpack, such as the CABINZERO 28L, can save you valuable kilograms before you even put anything inside. Another great trick is to use packing cubes to organise and compress your items. Trust us, they’re little magical organisers.

Consider An Upgrade 

For long-haul flights, the difference between Business and Economy class can be a game-changer, especially when heavy luggage is involved. The baggage allowance in Business Class is 50kg, compared to 30kg in Economy. We're also talking about better boarding, ticket changes, and more comfortable seats. All of these perks could make upgrading your new travel hack. We're sure the fare is higher, but it might just save you from paying a fortune in excess baggage fees at the airport.

Buy Extra Baggage In Advance

Can I increase my baggage allowance with Cathay Pacific? If you need more than the standard limit, it’s much cheaper to top it up in advance (rather than at the airport). According to Cathay Pacific Airlines' baggage rules, you'll get a 10% discount if you buy your luggage at least 24 hours before your departure, via Manage Booking.

Weigh before You Go

Here's a simple trick to beat Cathay Pacific baggage fees: weigh your bags as you pack. If your backpack or wheelie bag appears overweight, simply double-check it the night before. You can easily remove those "just in case" jackets and extra shoes to reduce your load. That quick check can save you anywhere from $60 to $150 in overweight charges with Cathay Pacific.

How To Book and Check In With Pacific Cathay?

User-friendly check-in window for Cathay Pacific flyers. Photo taken from Cathay Pacific website

If you’re a first-timer, here’s how to book your Cathay Pacific flight and check in smoothly from anywhere, anytime.

How To Book A Ticket With Cathay Pacific?

You can book your flight directly with Cathay Pacific or through OTAs (online travel agencies).

OTAs can offer the sweetest deals, especially for long-haul trips. The prices can even beat what you get directly from the carrier. But here's the catch: booking with OTAs means you’re going through a middleman.

In the event of flight changes or cancellations, the process cannot be as straightforward (and maybe costly) as you would booking directly with the airline. 

On the other hand, if you’re booking with Cathay Pacific, you easily earn and redeem Asia Miles and other loyalty rewards.

No middleman means that changing and cancelling flights can go smoothly with Cathay Pacific's 24/7 customer service.

On top of that, there’s also a 24-hour free cancellation policy in place for Cathay members. You’ll always have a window to change your itinerary without any extra fees. 

Check in With Pacific Cathay

1. Online Check-In

Online checking is available up to 48 hours before your departure. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Visit the Cathay Pacific website or open the airline’s app on your phone.

Step 2: Enter the required information, including first name, last name, booking reference or e-ticket number to find your booking.

Step 3: Follow the instructions to select your seat before confirming your check-in.

Step 4: You can print your boarding pass at this step. Otherwise, save a copy on your phone to proceed at the airport. 

2. Airport Check-In Counter

Airport counter is a popular check-in method. Photo by nitalimo on Adobe Stock. 

If you choose to check in at the airport counter, make sure you arrive with plenty of time to spare. This helps you avoid potential delays and long lines. Cathay Pacific check-in counters normally close 60 minutes before the scheduled departure.

Step 1: Locate the Cathay Pacific check-in counter

Step 2: Have your flight ticket, passport, visas (if needed), and booking confirmation ready. When it's your turn, present them to the agent.

Step 3: The agent then checks your information and processes your check-in. If you haven’t chosen a seat yet, the agent can help you select one in this step. 

Step 4: They also weigh and tag your luggage

Step 5: You will then get your baggage receipt and boarding pass.

3. Self-Service Kiosk

With self-service kiosks, Cathay Pacific flyers can now check in for their flights, print their boarding passes and get their baggage tags on their own at the airport.

Step 1: Retrieve your booking by either scanning your passport or travel document

Step 2: Select your flight from the options displayed on the screen.

Step 3: Select your seat from the seat map on the window.

Step 4: Confirm your check-in and print your boarding passes.

FAQs

Got questions about your baggage? We’ve got you covered with the facts that you must know about Cathay Pacific’s baggage rules before jetting off!

1. What Is 2PC Baggage In Cathay Pacific?

A 2PC baggage allowance on Cathay Pacific means you can check in two bags for free. "PC" stands for "piece concept," a system where the allowance is based on the number of bags, not their weight. The weight-based concept, on the other hand, is measured in kilograms (K). 

You can find the info on your flight itinerary,  where it will say something like "2PC" for two pieces or "23K" for 23kg of weight allowance.

2. How Do I Check My Baggage Allowance On Cathay Pacific?

You can easily check your allowance either on the e-ticket receipt or via Manage Booking. Cathay Pacific also has a calculator on their website to help their passengers work out how much they can bring along. If you’ve scored an Upgrade Bid, note that your baggage allowance is still the same as stated in the first e-ticket. 

3. Does 2 PC Baggage Include Carry-On?

No. These symbols are for checked baggage only. Your carry-on baggage,  which you’re allowed to bring into the cabin, is a separate allowance. So, besides these checked bags, you’re also entitled to one piece of carry-on baggage and one small item, regardless of your fare.

4. How Much Does Cathay Pacific Charge For Extra Baggage?

On most routes, you'll pay from $60-$150 for one piece of overweight luggage. Any bag over 32 kg will not be accepted. The charge for oversized bags (between 158cm and 203 cm) is $200 per bag. Anything bigger than 203 cm can't come along on Cathay Pacific flights, unfortunately.

5. Can I Bring A Backpack And A Carry-On On Cathay Pacific?

Yes, of course. Each passenger is allowed to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item on board free of charge. The personal item can be a laptop bag, a small handbag, a camera bag, or a small backpack. It doesn’t matter what kind of personal item you’re bringing on board, as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. 

6. Is Cathay Pacific Strict With Baggage Allowance?

According to many flyers, Cathay Pacific has a moderate approach to baggage rules. They don't always check every bag. However, if flights are particularly busy and space is at a premium, agents may weigh your carry-on. They can also double-check your luggage if it appears too big or heavy. It's a bit of a gamble, depending on the airport, how packed the flight is, and the staff you run into. So instead of pushing your luck with Cathay Pacific, you can just stick to the rules and save the hassle.

Know The Fees

Cathay Pacific baggage allowance & potential fees can be a real drag, but they don't have to surprise you. The Hong Kong flagship airline has its own (pretty clear) rules about what you can bring aboard. It all depends on your flight path and class fare. That's why a bit of research can save you heavy charges at the airport later. 

We hope this guide has helped you better understand Cathay Pacific’s baggage rules and how to pack smart for your trip. Still unsure about something? Drop a comment below; we’re always happy to help. Safe travels, and we’ll see you in our next post!

KELSEY