Garuda Indonesia, Indonesia’s national airline, operates a generous baggage policy that varies by cabin class, route (domestic or international), and fare type. Below is a comprehensive overview of their baggage allowances, restrictions, fees, and special considerations, based on the latest available information from their official website and other reliable sources.
Carry-On Baggage
Allowance:
- All passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge.
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions are 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm (22 in x 14 in x 9 in), with a total linear dimension not exceeding 115 cm (45 in). Maximum weight is 7 kg (15 lbs).
- Personal Item: Must fit under the seat in front of you (e.g., handbag, laptop bag, small backpack). Examples include a laptop bag, blanket, coat, umbrella, or camera.
- Exception for CRJ and ATR Aircraft (Economy Class): Smaller planes have stricter limits—maximum dimensions of 41 cm x 34 cm x 17 cm (total linear dimension not exceeding 92 cm) and weight of 7 kg.
Notes:
- Carry-on bags are labeled but remain under the passenger’s responsibility.
- Liquids in carry-on bags must comply with international security regulations (e.g., 100 ml or less per container, in a clear, resealable plastic bag).
- Power banks are allowed only in carry-on baggage, with a maximum capacity of 100 Wh (20,000 mAh). Capacities of 101-160 Wh require airline approval, and those above 160 Wh are prohibited. Power banks must have a clear capacity label and cannot be used during the flight.
- Electronic cigarettes and spare batteries must be carried in the cabin, with batteries protected against short circuits (e.g., in plastic bags).
- Passengers departing from Incheon International Airport (ICN) with high-capacity batteries (>100 Wh) must obtain airline approval and an official sticker at check-in.
Checked Baggage
Weight and Size Limits:
- Maximum weight per bag: 32 kg (70 lbs). Bags over 32 kg are not accepted, except for special items with prior approval.
- Maximum dimensions per bag: 158 cm (62 in) in total linear dimensions (length + width + height, including handles, wheels, and pockets).
Notes:
- Checked baggage must contain only personal items necessary for the trip (e.g., clothing, toiletries). Fragile, perishable, or valuable items (e.g., cash, jewelry, electronics, documents) should not be packed in checked baggage to avoid loss or damage.
- Garuda Indonesia is not responsible for minor damage (e.g., dents, scratches, or lost accessories) to checked baggage.
- Infants are entitled to a fully collapsible stroller, pushchair, carrying basket, or car seat, which must be tagged and checked in but can be used up to the departure gate.
Excess Baggage Fees
General Rules:
- Excess baggage fees apply if you exceed the weight or piece allowance or if bags are oversized/overweight.
- Fees vary by route and are cheaper if prepaid (up to 24 hours before departure) via the Garuda Indonesia website, mobile app, or ticket office.
- Prepaid excess baggage options include 5 kg, 10 kg, 15 kg, 20: Only one package per passenger per sector is allowed.
Notes:
- Prepaying online or via the call center saves 10% compared to airport fees.
- Excess baggage is subject to space availability in the cargo hold.
Special Items
Sporting Equipment:
- One piece of sporting equipment (e.g., bicycles, surfboards) is allowed in addition to the free baggage allowance, subject to specific size/weight limits. Additional pieces count toward the standard allowance.
- Fees may apply if the total weight exceeds the allowance (e.g., 23 kg extra for sporting equipment on some routes).
- Contact Garuda at least 48 hours in advance for approval.
Musical Instruments:
- Small instruments can be carried as cabin baggage if they meet size/weight limits.
- Larger instruments may count as checked baggage or require a purchased seat, with standard fees applying if under 100 lbs.
Assistive Devices:
- Fully collapsible wheelchairs, CPAP devices, and other medical equipment are allowed free of charge and do not count toward the baggage allowance.
- Wheelchair access is available with assistance from check-in to the gate; request in advance.
Fragile or Valuable Items:
- Items like cash, jewelry, electronics, or documents should be carried in the cabin to avoid loss or damage.
- Lighters and matches are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Tips to Avoid Fees
- Pack Within Limits: Weigh and measure bags to ensure they meet size and weight restrictions. Use a luggage scale to avoid surprises.
- Prepay Excess Baggage: Purchase extra baggage online or via the call center for a discount.
- Combine Allowances: If traveling with others, pool your baggage allowance to reduce the number of bags.
- Check Special Rules: Confirm baggage allowances for specific routes (e.g., U.S., Japan, London) and fare types (e.g., Student Fare).
- Use Lightweight Luggage: Maximize your weight allowance with lightweight bags.
Important Notes
- Strict Enforcement: Individual bags must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs), even if the total allowance is higher (e.g., 46 kg for Japan routes must be split).
- Check-In Deadlines: Check-in counters open 3 hours before departure and close 1 hour before for domestic flights, or 4 hours to 1 hour before for international flights. Online check-in is available 2 days (international) or 2 hours (domestic) prior.
- Codeshare/Interline Flights: Baggage rules may vary based on the operating carrier. Check with the operating airline or Garuda for details.
- Special Items: Notify Garuda in advance for oversized, overweight, or special items to avoid delays or fees.
