Arajet Baggage Policy: Carry-On, Checked Bag Fees and Size Limits
Arajet is an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) based at Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The airline operates on an unbundled pricing model, keeping base fares low by charging separately for add-on services like overhead carry-on bags and checked luggage.
Arajet Baggage Policy Summary: Arajet base fares include only one small personal item that must fit beneath the seat in front of you. Overhead carry-on bags and checked luggage incur extra fees, which are cheapest when purchased online during flight booking and highest at the airport gate. Standard checked bags are limited to 20 kg (44 lbs) and 158 linear cm (62 linear inches), measured including wheels and handles.
Baggage Allowance Snapshot
Arajet includes one small under-seat personal item with all ticket classes. Overhead carry-on items and checked bags require optional fees, which increase as departure approaches.
What can change: Exact baggage fees vary by route distance, seasonal demand, fare bundle tier, and purchase timing.
Baggage Size Visual
Arajet measures baggage using total exterior dimensions, including wheels, rigid handles, and packed exterior pockets.
Under-Seat Personal Item
Published limit: 40 x 25 x 20 cm (15.7 x 9.8 x 7.8 in)
Included in all fare classes (Smart, Comfort, Extra)
Overhead Carry-On Bag
Published limit: 56 x 46 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 in), max 12 kg (26.4 lbs)
Paid add-on or Extra fare bundle
Standard Checked Bag
Published limit: 158 cm (62 linear in), max 20 kg (44 lbs)
Paid add-on or select fare bundles
Visual guide - not to scale. Use the published numerical limit as the controlling rule.
Official Source Verification
Baggage rules can vary by fare, cabin, route, operating carrier, traveler status, and purchase channel. BaggageBase separates published rules from practical guidance.
How BaggageBase Checks This Information
BaggageBase cross-references official airline conditions of carriage, carrier fee pages, and booking flow engine rules. We convert metric and imperial measurements so international travelers across North America, the Caribbean, and South America have accurate packing details.
When airline policies leave details ambiguous-such as dynamic fee shifts or seasonal route surcharges-we explicitly mark those variations so travelers can double-check live numbers before flying.
Arajet Personal Item Allowance: Dimensions and Under-Seat Rules
Every ticket sold by Arajet includes one personal item (bolso personal) at no extra cost. This applies to basic Smart fares as well as upgraded Comfort and Extra bundles.
Your personal item must fit under the seat directly in front of you. The maximum dimensions for an Arajet personal item are 40 x 25 x 20 cm (15.7 x 9.8 x 7.8 inches).
To review how Arajet compares to other ultra-low-cost carriers in the region, consult our airline personal item size comparison guide.
What Qualifies as a Personal Item?
Acceptable personal items include:
- Small daypacks or casual backpacks
- Purses and handbags
- Laptop bags or briefcases
- Small tote bags
Arajet measures baggage using metal sizing frames located at airport check-in counters and departure gates. Exterior elements-including wheels, top handles, side pockets, and bulging contents-count toward the total size limit. If your bag does not fit into the sizer without force, gate agents will reclassify it as an overhead carry-on or checked bag and charge an airport fee.
Arajet Carry-On Bag Size, Weight Limits, and Fees
Overhead carry-on luggage (equipaje de mano) is not included in Arajet base fares. Unless you purchase an "Extra" fare bundle or pay for a carry-on add-on, bringing a larger bag to the plane will result in gate penalty fees.
The published maximum dimensions for an Arajet carry-on bag are 56 x 46 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 inches). The maximum weight limit is 12 kg (26.4 lbs).
Before heading out, measure your suitcase using our airline carry-on size comparison reference to check standard cabin fit rules.
| Attribute | Under-Seat Personal Item | Overhead Carry-On Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Included in Base Fare? | Yes (All Fares) | No (Paid Add-On or Extra Bundle) |
| Max Dimensions (cm) | 40 x 25 x 20 cm | 56 x 46 x 25 cm |
| Max Dimensions (in) | 15.7 x 9.8 x 7.8 in | 22 x 18 x 10 in |
| Max Weight Limit | Must fit under seat (approx. 6–10 kg) | 12 kg (26.4 lbs) |
| Stowage Location | Under front seat | Overhead bin |
Arajet agents enforce weight and dimension caps at check-in desks and boarding gates. If a carry-on exceeds the 12 kg limit or fails to fit in the overhead sizer, staff will check the bag into the hold and collect checked bag fees plus gate handling surcharges.
Arajet Checked Bag Fees, Size Limits, and Weight Caps
Checked luggage (equipaje facturado) must be purchased separately on base fares. Arajet sets a standard weight limit of 20 kg (44 lbs) per checked piece, which is lower than the traditional 23 kg (50 lbs) allowance common on full-service legacy airlines.
The maximum linear size limit for checked baggage is 158 linear cm (62 linear inches), calculated by adding the total length + width + height ($L + W + H$).
Fee Progression by Purchase Channel
Arajet uses a dynamic pricing model where baggage fees increase as your departure date approaches. Purchasing bags during initial booking yields the lowest price, while paying at the boarding gate is the most expensive.
| Purchase Stage / Channel | Personal Item | Overhead Carry-On | 1st Checked Bag (20 kg) | 2nd Checked Bag (20 kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Web Booking | $0 (Included) | $20 – $35 USD | $25 – $45 USD | $35 – $60 USD |
| Manage Booking (Pre-Flight Online) | $0 (Included) | $30 – $45 USD | $35 – $55 USD | $45 – $70 USD |
| Airport Check-In Counter | $0 (Included) | $50 – $65 USD | $60 – $80 USD | $75 – $100 USD |
| Boarding Gate (Penalty Fee) | N/A | $70 – $90+ USD | $80 – $100+ USD | $100+ USD |
Note: Fee ranges represent general ULCC dynamic scales in USD across Caribbean, Central American, and North/South American routes. Exact rates depend on your origin, destination, season, and time of purchase.
If you are transferring between carriers on long routes, see our international carry-on size rules to avoid hidden fees at connecting points.
Arajet Excess Baggage: Overweight and Oversized Surcharges
If your checked bag exceeds the standard weight limit of 20 kg (44 lbs) or size limit of 158 linear cm (62 in), Arajet assesses excess fees at the airport.
Overweight Fees
Bags weighing between 20.1 kg and 32 kg (45–70 lbs) incur a flat overweight surcharge per piece at check-in.
Absolute Weight Limit: Arajet will not accept any single bag weighing over 32 kg (70 lbs) as passenger luggage. Items exceeding 32 kg must be repacked into separate bags or shipped via cargo services.
Oversized Fees
Bags measuring between 159 linear cm and 203 linear cm (63–80 linear inches) incur an oversized baggage fee. Items exceeding 203 linear cm are rejected at check-in.
| Excess Category | Standard Ceiling | Excess Threshold | Surcharge Rule | Hard Maximum Cutoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overweight Piece | 20 kg (44 lbs) | 20.1 kg to 32 kg (45–70 lbs) | Flat fee per overweight tier | >32 kg (70 lbs) strictly prohibited |
| Oversized Piece | 158 cm (62 in) | 159 cm to 203 cm (63–80 in) | Flat fee per oversized piece | >203 cm (80 in) rejected |
| Excess Quantity (3+ Bags) | 2 Checked pieces | 3rd checked piece onward | Higher fee per piece | Subject to hold space availability |
Overweight and oversized fees are cumulative. If a single piece of luggage is both heavy (e.g., 25 kg) and large (e.g., 170 linear cm), Arajet collects both the overweight fee and the oversized fee.
Arajet Fare Classes: Smart, Comfort, and Extra Baggage Rules
Arajet structures ticket pricing into three main fare bundles: Smart, Comfort, and Extra. Selecting a higher fare class at checkout includes baggage allowances that may save money compared to buying individual add-ons later.
1. Smart Fare (Base Rate)
- Inclusions: 1 under-seat personal item only.
- Carry-on & Checked Bags: Paid add-ons required.
- Best For: Light travelers carrying only a small backpack.
2. Comfort Fare (Mid-Tier)
- Inclusions: 1 under-seat personal item, standard seat selection, and discounted rates on add-on luggage packages during initial purchase.
- Best For: Travelers who want seat selection and flexibility to add specific bags.
3. Extra Fare (Top-Tier)
- Inclusions: 1 under-seat personal item, 1 overhead carry-on bag (up to 12 kg), 1 checked bag (up to 20 kg), priority check-in, and priority boarding.
- Best For: Passengers traveling with full baggage needs.
If you plan to bring both a carry-on and a checked bag, pricing out the "Extra" bundle at checkout is usually cheaper than purchasing a Smart fare and adding both items separately.
Arajet Special Baggage: Infants, Assistive Devices, Sports Gear, and Pets
Infant Baggage Exceptions
Passengers traveling with infants under 2 years of age are permitted to check one stroller and one infant car seat free of charge. Diaper bags may be carried into the cabin as long as they meet standard under-seat personal item size limits or fit within the accompanying adult's paid baggage allowance.
Medical and Mobility Equipment
In compliance with international aviation safety regulations, Arajet accepts mobility devices and medical equipment free of charge:
- Manual or electric wheelchairs (battery types must comply with dangerous goods regulations).
- Crutches, walkers, and canes.
- CPAP machines and other essential medical support devices.
These items do not count against your cabin or checked baggage allowances.
Sports Gear and Musical Instruments
Golf bags, surfboards, diving equipment, bicycles, and large musical instruments are classified as special baggage. These items cannot replace standard checked bags and are charged separate handling fees per segment. Items must fit within aircraft cargo door limits and weigh under 32 kg (70 lbs).
Pets in Cabin
Arajet permits small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin on select routes for a non-refundable pet fee. Pets must remain inside an approved soft-sided carrier (fitting within personal item dimensions) placed beneath the seat in front of you throughout the flight.
What Happens at the Gate: Sizers, Penalties, and Packing Checklist
Arajet strictly monitors baggage sizing at departure gates across its destination network. Gate agents use metal sizers to check that cabin items match published dimension rules.
The Gate Check Process
If your personal item does not slide easily into the measuring frame, or if you bring an unpurchased overhead carry-on to the boarding door, agents will check the item into the plane's hold.
When a bag is checked at the gate:
- Staff issue a gate-check baggage claim tag.
- The owner must pay the boarding gate penalty rate on the spot via credit card.
- Cash is rarely accepted at gate counters, and unpaid items will be denied boarding.
Packing within Arajet's weight limits and measuring your bags prior to airport departure protects you against these higher gate fees.
BaggageBase Fee-Saving Checklist for Arajet Flights
Follow these practical steps before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected surcharges and baggage gate fees.
- Book Bags Early: Add carry-on or checked luggage during initial flight booking on Arajet.com to secure the lowest fee tier.
- Respect the 20 kg Limit: Standard checked bags cap out at 20 kg (44 lbs), which is lower than the traditional 23 kg (50 lbs) allowance on network carriers. Weigh your bag before leaving home.
- Keep Personal Items Soft-Sided: Flexible backpacks compress easily into airport metal measuring frames, preventing forced gate-check fees.
- Measure Wheels and Handles: Measure your luggage from the ground up to ensure total height and width fall within Arajet cabin dimensions.
- Check Fare Bundle Rules: Compare the price of the "Extra" bundle against adding individual bags to a basic "Smart" ticket before completing your booking.
- Complete Online Check-In: Pre-paying for baggage online and downloading a mobile boarding pass lets you bypass ticket counter lines when traveling light.
Arajet Baggage Policy FAQ
Does Arajet include a free carry-on bag with basic tickets?
No. Arajet's basic Smart fare includes only one small under-seat personal item. Overhead carry-on bags require a paid add-on fee or booking an Extra fare bundle.
What are the exact dimensions for an Arajet personal item?
An Arajet personal item must fit under the front seat and measure no larger than 40 x 25 x 20 cm (15.7 x 9.8 x 7.8 inches), including handles, wheels, and side pockets.
What is the weight limit for checked baggage on Arajet?
The standard weight limit for a paid checked bag on Arajet is 20 kg (44 lbs). Bags over 20 kg incur overweight fees up to a 32 kg (70 lbs) absolute limit.
How much does Arajet charge for an overweight checked bag?
Arajet charges an overweight surcharge for bags weighing between 20.1 kg and 32 kg (45–70 lbs). Bags weighing over 32 kg (70 lbs) are rejected at check-in.
Can I pay for my baggage at the airport gate?
Yes, but paying for baggage at the boarding gate is the most expensive channel. Gate penalty rates are significantly higher than paying online before your flight.
Are strollers and car seats free to bring on Arajet?
Yes. Passengers traveling with an infant under 2 years of age may check one stroller and one infant car seat free of charge.
Does Arajet measure carry-on bags including wheels and handles?
Yes. Arajet baggage measuring frames check total exterior dimensions, meaning wheels, top handles, and packed side pockets count toward size limits.
What is the maximum weight for an overhead carry-on bag?
Paid overhead carry-on bags on Arajet have a maximum weight limit of 12 kg (26.4 lbs).
Final Verdict: Navigating Arajet Baggage Rules
Arajet offers competitive base fares across its route network, but avoiding unexpected travel costs requires careful baggage planning. Base tickets limit travelers to one small under-seat personal item measuring 40 x 25 x 20 cm (15.7 x 9.8 x 7.8 inches).
If you need an overhead carry-on (up to 12 kg / 26.4 lbs) or checked bag (up to 20 kg / 44 lbs), buy them online during initial reservation. Avoid waiting until you reach the airport counter or boarding gate, where fees double or triple.
Review your luggage measurements carefully, weigh packed suitcases before leaving home, and consider the "Extra" fare bundle if traveling with multiple bags.
Airline baggage rules and fees can change by route, fare, cabin, operating carrier, traveler status, purchase channel, and departure date. Check the airline's official baggage policy or calculator before booking, paying, or traveling. BaggageBase reviews information for 2026 where possible, but the airline's published terms remain the final authority.
