Avianca Costa Rica (IATA code LR, historically known as LACSA) operates flights across Central, North, and South America using the unified baggage architecture and fare family rules of the Avianca Group. Understanding the Avianca Costa Rica baggage policy helps you avoid unexpected penalty fees at check-in or the boarding gate.
Avianca Costa Rica allows every passenger to bring one personal item free of charge. Overhead carry-on luggage and checked baggage inclusions depend entirely on the ticket tier you purchase or your status in the LifeMiles and Star Alliance networks. Adding extra bags online before your flight costs significantly less than paying at the airport counter or gate.
Baggage Allowance Snapshot
Avianca Costa Rica provides one free personal item with every ticket, while overhead carry-on and checked bag inclusions depend on your fare tier. Buying extra baggage online prior to departure is always cheaper than paying at the airport counter.
What can change: Inclusions vary based on ticket tier (Basic vs. Classic/Flex/Business), frequent flyer status, route, purchase channel, and operating carrier rules.
Baggage Size Visual
Avianca Costa Rica uses standard length, width, and depth limits for cabin baggage. External measurements must include wheels, rigid handles, and packed side pockets.
Personal Item
Published limit: Under-seat fit (No strict weight cap)
Free on all ticket fares across all routes
Overhead Carry-On Bag
Published limit: Max 10 kg (22 lbs)
Included in Classic, Flex, and Business fares; extra fee on Basic fares
Standard Checked Bag
Published limit: 23 kg (50 lbs) Economy / 32 kg (70 lbs) Business
Total of Length + Width + Height; fare dependent
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 checks official carrier tariffs, conditions of carriage documents, baggage calculators, and airport check-in standards published by the Avianca Group. Because Avianca Costa Rica functions as part of the broader Avianca commercial network, core physical limits-such as maximum linear inches and carry-on weight caps-are fully standardized. Where exact fees vary by route, travel season, or currency conversion, we clearly label those ranges so you know what to verify on your individual booking reservation.
Avianca Costa Rica Personal Item Policy
Every passenger flying on Avianca Costa Rica can bring one small personal item on board at no additional charge, regardless of the fare family booked.
Dimensions and Under-Seat Placement
Your personal item must measure no more than 45 x 35 x 25 cm (17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8 in). It must fit completely beneath the seat directly in front of you. Avianca does not publish an exact numeric weight cap for personal items, but the bag must be light enough for you to manage safely, and it cannot obstruct aisles or legroom.
To see how these dimensions compare against other carriers, consult our airline personal item size comparison guide.
Approved vs. Unacceptable Personal Items
Personal items must fit in a single under-seat footprint. Acceptable items include:
- Small backpacks or daypacks
- Purses and handbags
- Laptop sleeves and briefcases
- Small tote bags or camera bags
Bulky duffel bags, hard-shell rolling suitcases, and oversized hiking bags are not accepted as personal items. If your item exceeds the under-seat space or fails to fit in the airport sizing unit, agents will classify it as a carry-on bag or a checked bag, subjecting it to standard fare charges or gate-check penalties.
Carry-On Bag Size, Weight, and Cabin Rules
Carry-on baggage goes into the overhead locker above your seat. Unlike personal items, an overhead carry-on bag is not automatically included in every ticket type.
| Item | Allowance | Size or fit rule | Important condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Item | 1 included free | 45 x 35 x 25 cm (17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8 in) | Must fit under seat in front |
| Carry-On Bag | Fare dependent | 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in) | Max 10 kg (22 lbs); includes wheels/handles |
Dimensional Ceilings and Weight Limits
The maximum external dimensions for an overhead carry-on bag are 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in). These measurements include wheels, top and side handles, and packed exterior pockets.
The maximum weight limit for a carry-on bag is 10 kg (22 lbs). Avianca agent scale checks at airport check-in counters and boarding gates strictly enforce this threshold.
To review general global limits across carriers, read our guide on international carry-on size standards or explore the airline carry-on size comparison hub.
Fare Inclusion Guidelines
Whether your carry-on is free or requires payment depends on the fare structure selected:
- Basic / Light Fares (e.g., Fare XS/S): Overhead carry-on is not included. You must purchase a carry-on allowance online prior to flight departure or pay a higher rate at the airport.
- Classic / Flex Fares (e.g., Fare M/L): Includes 1 overhead carry-on bag (up to 10 kg / 22 lbs) in addition to your personal item.
- Business Class / XXL Fares: Includes 1 overhead carry-on bag (up to 10 kg / 22 lbs) in addition to your personal item.
Avianca Costa Rica Checked Baggage Allowances
Checked luggage travels in the aircraft cargo hold. Avianca Costa Rica establishes checked baggage limits based on linear size, total weight, and fare tier.
Maximum Size and Standard Weight Limits
- Maximum Size: 158 linear cm (62 linear inches), calculated by adding the total length + width + height of the bag.
- Standard Economy Weight: 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag.
- Standard Business Weight: 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag.
Checked Baggage Allowance by Fare Family
| Fare Family / Cabin | Personal Item | Overhead Carry-On | Standard Checked Allowance | Max Weight per Checked Bag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (XS/S) | 1 Included Free | Extra Charge | Extra Charge | 23 kg (50 lbs) if added |
| Classic (M) | 1 Included Free | 1 Included (10 kg) | 1 Bag Included | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Flex (L) | 1 Included Free | 1 Included (10 kg) | 1 Bag Included | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Business (XXL) | 1 Included Free | 1 Included (10 kg) | 2 Bags Included | 32 kg (70 lbs) each |
Baggage Fees, Pre-Purchase Discounts, and Airport Pricing
Avianca uses dynamic ancillary pricing. Baggage costs vary depending on whether you purchase during initial ticket booking, add items via the web or mobile app prior to departure, pay at the airport ticket counter, or get charged at the boarding gate.
Channel Price Differences
Pre-purchasing baggage allowances online at least 48 hours prior to flight departure yields the lowest available pricing. Paying at the airport counter or gate incurs maximum fee structures.
| Service / Baggage Type | Purchase Channel | Applicable Routes | Fee Range (USD) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-On Bag (Basic Fare) | Online Pre-purchase | All Routes | $20 – $50 | Purchased >48 hrs before departure |
| Carry-On Bag (Basic Fare) | Airport Counter / Gate | All Routes | $50 – $85 | Paid during check-in or boarding |
| 1st Checked Bag | Online Pre-purchase | Central / North / South America | $30 – $65 | Applied when not included in fare |
| 1st Checked Bag | Airport Counter | Central / North / South America | $60 – $95 | Paid at airport ticket desk |
| 2nd Checked Bag | Online Pre-purchase | All Routes | $45 – $80 | Rate increases for additional pieces |
| 2nd Checked Bag | Airport Counter | All Routes | $75 – $120 | Paid at airport ticket desk |
Note: All fees are listed in USD and vary by exact origin-destination pair. Local taxes (such as Costa Rican IVA) may apply to counter transactions at San José (SJO) or Guanacaste (LIR).
Overweight and Oversized Surcharges
Checked bags that exceed standard weight or linear limits incur additional penalty charges. Overweight and oversized fees are cumulative; if a bag is both heavy and large, both surcharges apply.
| Condition | Threshold | Additional Fee (USD) | Acceptance Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overweight Tier 1 (Economy) | 24 kg to 32 kg (51 to 70 lbs) | $40 – $100 per bag | Allowed as passenger baggage |
| Overweight Tier 2 (Economy) | 33 kg to 45 kg (71 to 100 lbs) | $100 – $180 per bag | Route-dependent; subject to local labor rules |
| Oversized Baggage | 159 to 230 linear cm (63 to 90 in) | $80 – $150 per bag | Allowed as passenger baggage |
| Prohibited Passenger Limit | >45 kg (100 lbs) or >230 linear cm (90 in) | Not accepted as passenger baggage | Must ship via Avianca Cargo |
Route Differences and Partner Flights
Baggage application rules vary across domestic Costa Rican corridors, regional Central American flights, and long-haul itineraries.
Regional Turboprop and Narrowbody Aircraft
Short-haul routes operated within Central America often utilize smaller narrowbody or regional aircraft. Due to limited overhead storage compartments, gate agents may enforce mandatory gate-checking for standard carry-on suitcases on fully loaded flights. When gate-checked by airline staff due to bin capacity limits, compliant carry-on items are handled without added fees and returned at the jet bridge or baggage carousel upon arrival.
Code-Share and Multi-Airline Itineraries
For multi-airline trips involving code-share partners, federal regulations set policy boundaries:
- U.S. DOT and Canadian CTA Rules: On tickets originating or ending in the United States or Canada, the baggage terms of the marketing carrier listed on your ticket apply across the entire itinerary.
- Interline Connections: If your flight involves an operating carrier other than Avianca Costa Rica (LR), review the operating carrier's baggage rules for non-stop segments outside North America.
LifeMiles and Star Alliance Baggage Privileges
Passengers holding elite status in Avianca's LifeMiles program or the Star Alliance network receive additional checked baggage allowances across eligible routes.
| Eligible Traveler Status | Additional Checked Allowance | Weight / Size Cap | Applicable Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| LifeMiles Silver | 1 Extra Checked Bag (select routes) | 23 kg (50 lbs) / 158 cm | Subject to route eligibility; check status dashboard |
| LifeMiles Gold | 1 Extra Checked Bag | 23 kg (50 lbs) / 158 cm | Valid on all flights operated by Avianca Group |
| LifeMiles Diamond | 1 Extra Checked Bag | 23 kg (50 lbs) / 158 cm | Valid on all flights operated by Avianca Group |
| Star Alliance Gold | 1 Extra Checked Bag | 23 kg (50 lbs) / 158 cm | Must present valid Star Alliance Gold credentials |
Traveling with Children, Assistive Devices, and Medical Items
Avianca Costa Rica provides specific exceptions for families and passengers traveling with special mobility or medical equipment.
Infant Equipment (Under 2 Years)
Parents traveling with a lap infant (under 2 years old) can check up to two items from the following list free of charge:
- One fully collapsible stroller or pushchair
- One infant car seat or booster seat
- One travel crib
Children traveling on paid adult fare tickets (ages 2 to 11) receive the standard baggage allowance associated with their booked fare tier.
Mobility Equipment and Assistive Devices
Wheelchairs, mobility scooters, crutches, walkers, and related personal mobility aids travel free of charge and do not count against standard checked or carry-on allowances. Electric wheelchairs using lithium batteries require advance notification to clear dangerous goods safety standards.
Approved Medical Equipment
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are permitted in the cabin without counting toward your personal item or carry-on limit. Medical equipment must undergo security screening and comply with onboard safety dimensions.
Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, and Pet Travel Overview
Specialty items require advance planning due to space restrictions on Avianca Costa Rica aircraft.
Sports Equipment
Sports items-such as surfboards, bicycles, golf bags, and scuba gear-can travel as checked luggage if properly packed in protective cases.
- Surfboards: Highly common on Costa Rican routes. Surfboards up to 230 linear cm (90 in) are accepted subject to special equipment charges (typically $50–$150 depending on destination).
- Bicycles: Must have handlebars turned sideways, pedals removed, and tires deflated, stored within a rigid travel case.
Musical Instruments
- Small Instruments: Guitars, violins, or flutes can be carried on board as your overhead carry-on if they meet the 55 x 35 x 25 cm limits and fit in the overhead bin.
- Cabin Seat Booking: Larger instruments (like cellos) require purchasing an extra seat adjacent to the owner.
- Checked Instruments: Instruments exceeding carry-on limits that are not assigned a cabin seat must travel in hard cases as checked baggage.
Pets in Cabin and Hold
Avianca permits small dogs and cats in the cabin on select routes if the pet and carrier together weigh no more than 10 kg (22 lbs). The soft-sided pet carrier must fit beneath the seat in front of you. Avianca places strict limit caps on the maximum number of pets allowed per flight, requiring advance reservation through the airline's customer portal.
Airport Sizers, Gate Checks, and Penalty Fees
Avianca Costa Rica uses strict boarding-gate verification checks to ensure carry-on bags meet ticket inclusions.
Gate Enforcement Points
Boarding agents regularly place carry-on luggage into metal sizing units at San José (SJO), Guanacaste (LIR), and international gateway airports. Agents will also weigh bags suspected of exceeding the 10 kg (22 lbs) ceiling.
Penalty Outcomes
If your carry-on bag exceeds size or weight limits-or if you booked a Basic (XS/S) fare without pre-purchasing a carry-on allowance-the bag will be checked into the cargo hold at the gate. You will be charged the highest applicable gate penalty fee ($50 to $85 USD).
Payment Methods
Airports operating Avianca flights function on a cash-free basis at check-in desks and boarding gates. Passengers must pay all baggage penalties using major credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Cash is not accepted at most international airport counters.
Avianca Costa Rica Baggage Checklist
Follow these steps before departure to eliminate unexpected airport charges.
- Measure wheels and handles. Ensure your carry-on does not exceed 55 x 35 x 25 cm total.
- Weigh bags at home. Keep carry-on luggage at or under 10 kg (22 lbs) and checked luggage under 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Pre-pay online 48 hours early. Secure carry-on and checked allowances through Avianca's app to save up to 50% compared to airport rates.
- Pack medical items in your personal item. Keep essential medicine, travel documents, and electronics in your under-seat bag.
- Arrive early for international baggage drop. Arrive at least 3 hours before departure at San José (SJO) to allow sufficient time for counter check-in and security screening.
- Keep a backup packing plan. If your checked bag is near the 23 kg limit, wear heavier items (such as jackets or hiking boots) on board to avoid overweight charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a personal item free on all Avianca Costa Rica tickets?
Yes. Every passenger on Avianca Costa Rica is allowed one personal item free of charge. The item must measure 45 x 35 x 25 cm (17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8 in) or less and fit under the seat in front of you.
What are the carry-on bag dimensions and weight limits?
Overhead carry-on bags on Avianca Costa Rica cannot exceed 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in) including wheels and handles. The strict maximum weight limit is 10 kg (22 lbs).
Do carry-on size limits include wheels and handles?
Yes. All external measurements published by Avianca include wheels, side handles, top handles, and stuffed exterior pockets.
What is the checked bag weight limit for Economy versus Business Class?
Standard checked bags in Economy Class are capped at 23 kg (50 lbs) per piece. Standard checked bags in Business Class are capped at 32 kg (70 lbs) per piece.
How much do you save by buying bags online before your flight?
Purchasing carry-on or checked baggage allowances online or through the mobile app at least 48 hours prior to flight departure can save 30% to 50% compared to paying at the airport counter or boarding gate.
Do Star Alliance Gold members get an extra checked bag?
Yes. Star Alliance Gold status holders receive one additional free checked bag (up to 23 kg / 50 lbs and 158 linear cm) on flights operated by Avianca Costa Rica.
Can I bring a baby stroller for free on Avianca Costa Rica?
Yes. Parents traveling with an infant under 2 years old can check a fully collapsible stroller or an infant car seat free of charge.
What is the maximum size limit before a bag must ship as cargo?
Bags weighing over 45 kg (100 lbs) or measuring over 230 linear cm (90 linear inches) are strictly prohibited from passenger checked baggage and must be booked through Avianca Cargo.
Final Decision Guide for Avianca Costa Rica Travelers
When flying on Avianca Costa Rica, your baggage allowance is tied directly to the fare family on your ticket. If you book a Basic (XS/S) fare, remember that only one under-seat personal item (max 45 x 35 x 25 cm) is included. Adding an overhead carry-on bag or checked bag during initial online booking remains the most cost-effective approach.
If you purchase a Classic, Flex, or Business Class ticket, your overhead carry-on (up to 10 kg) and standard checked bags (23 kg or 32 kg) are automatically included. Be sure to weigh your carry-on luggage at home, as agents actively enforce the 10 kg limit at airport check-in desks and boarding gates across Central America.
Always verify your specific itinerary details before heading to the airport. Baggage rules, local counter taxes, and excess fee structures depend on your exact origin, destination, frequent flyer status, and ticket class.
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.
