Transavia France Baggage Policy: Size Limits and Fees
Transavia France (IATA code TO) operates as the low-cost carrier arm of the Air France-KLM Group, flying primarily from French hubs alongside its Dutch sister carrier, Transavia Netherlands (HV). As a budget airline, Transavia unbundles its fares, charging separately for overhead storage and checked luggage on most tickets. Knowing the exact size and weight brackets before arriving at the terminal helps you bypass expensive gate penalties.
Transavia France allows all passengers one small under-seat personal item measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 in) for free. Large overhead cabin bags measuring up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in) are paid add-ons or included only with Max fares, subject to a combined 10 kg (22 lb) cabin weight limit. Checked baggage is sold in weight tiers starting at 15 kg, with prices increasing significantly at the airport.
Baggage Allowance Snapshot
Every passenger gets one small personal item under the seat for free. Overhead trolley bags and checked suitcases require an add-on fee or a higher bundled fare tier.
What can change: Exact checked bag fees and overhead cabin slot prices vary based on flight route, seasonal demand, and whether you purchase during initial booking or at the airport desk.
Baggage Size Visual
Use the airline's stated order of dimensions. Measurements may include wheels and handles only when the official source says so.
Small Personal Item (Under-seat)
Published limit: 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 in)
Free on all fares; included in 10 kg total cabin limit
Large Cabin Bag (Overhead Bin)
Published limit: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in)
Paid add-on or Max fare; max 10 kg combined cabin weight
Standard Checked Bag
Published limit: Max 158 linear cm (62.2 in), 15 kg to 30 kg tiers
Hold luggage; strict 32 kg maximum per single piece
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 monitors official policy portals, fare rules, dynamic baggage rate structures, and customer service conditions published by Transavia France and Transavia Netherlands. Because checked and overhead bag fees fluctuate by flight route and booking window, we verify published dimensional thresholds against current airport sizing standards.
Carry-On and Personal Item Rules
Transavia France uses a strict two-tier cabin luggage framework across all flights operated by Transavia France (code TO) and Transavia Netherlands (code HV). The key operational rule to remember is that the airline enforces a 10 kg (22 lb) combined cabin weight limit. This means the total weight of your under-seat personal item and your overhead trolley bag added together cannot exceed 10 kg.
Small Personal Item (Free on All Fares)
Every passenger, regardless of the fare paid, is entitled to bring one small personal item on board at no extra cost.
- Maximum dimensions: 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 in).
- Placement requirement: Must fit completely under the seat directly in front of you.
- Eligible bags: Small backpacks, briefcases, handbags, or compact laptop bags.
- Hardware inclusion: Dimensions include all exterior pockets, straps, and grab handles.
If you are seated in an emergency exit row, safety regulations prohibit placing items on the floor. Flight attendants will require your personal item to be placed in an overhead bin during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
Large Cabin Bag (Overhead Bin Add-On)
A standard carry-on suitcase does not come automatically with a base ticket. Overhead locker space is limited on Transavia's fleet of Boeing 737 and Airbus A321neo aircraft, so the airline sells access to overhead bins as an unbundled extra.
- Maximum dimensions: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in).
- Hardware rule: Wheels, side bumpers, and top handles must fit fully within these exterior boundaries.
- Cabin weight cap: Part of the 10 kg (22 lb) total carry-on weight allowance.
- Boarding perk: Pre-booking a large cabin bag automatically grants Priority Boarding, allowing you to board early and secure overhead locker space.
- Fare inclusion: Included with the Max fare bundle; available as a paid standalone add-on for Basic and Plus fares.
To see how these dimensions compare with other European and global carriers, read our guide to international carry-on size standards.
Carry-On Comparison
| Item | Allowance | Size or fit rule | Important condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Personal Item | 1 piece included free on all fares | Max 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 in) | Must fit fully under the seat in front of you. |
| Large Cabin Bag | Paid add-on or included in Max fare | Max 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 in) | Combined carry-on weight capped at 10 kg (22 lb); includes Priority Boarding. |
Cabin Bag Sizers and Gate Check Penalties
Transavia ground staff actively monitor bag sizes at the boarding gate using physical sizing boxes. If you bring an unpaid overhead trolley bag to the gate, or if your small personal item exceeds the 40 x 30 x 20 cm frame, it cannot be brought into the cabin.
Staff will tag the bag, send it down to the aircraft hold, and charge a gate-check fee of €65.00 to €75.00. Boarding gate payment counters do not accept cash; you must pay immediately using a debit or credit card. If you refuse to pay the fee, the bag will be denied boarding.
To review how other European budget carriers handle gate enforcement, check our airline carry-on size comparison guide.
Checked Baggage Allowances, Weight Tiers, and Fees
Unlike traditional full-service carriers that charge a flat fee per suitcase, Transavia France sells hold luggage strictly by weight brackets. You buy an overall weight allowance that can be spread across one or more physical suitcases, up to a maximum of 50 kg (110 lb) per traveler.
Checked Baggage Sizing and Weight Caps
- Linear dimension limit: The total sum of Length + Width + Height must not exceed 158 cm (62.2 in) per piece.
- Standard weight tiers: Sold in brackets of 15 kg (33 lb), 20 kg (44 lb), 25 kg (55 lb), and 30 kg (66 lb).
- Occupational health maximum: No single checked bag may exceed 32 kg (70.5 lb) under any circumstance, protecting airport baggage handling staff from injury.
Checked Baggage Pricing Structure
Transavia operates a dynamic pricing system for checked bags. The price depends on the flight distance (such as domestic French routes versus flights to North Africa), seasonal travel demand, and the timing of your purchase. Adding checked luggage during initial online booking is significantly cheaper than adding it later or paying at the check-in desk.
| Checked Bag Weight Tier | Online Pre-Booking Fee Range | Airport Counter Fee Range | Scope & Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 kg (33 lb) | Approx. €18.00 – €40.00 | Approx. €45.00 – €60.00 | Dynamic online rate; one-way price per flight |
| 20 kg (44 lb) | Approx. €23.00 – €50.00 | Approx. €55.00 – €75.00 | Dynamic online rate; included on Plus fares |
| 25 kg (55 lb) | Approx. €28.00 – €60.00 | Approx. €70.00 – €90.00 | Dynamic online rate; one-way price per flight |
| 30 kg (66 lb) | Approx. €35.00 – €75.00 | Approx. €85.00 – €110.00 | Dynamic online rate; included on Max fares |
For a broader breakdown of how these weight-tier rates align against other international airlines, consult our checked baggage fee comparison.
Weight Pooling Across Multiple Suitcases
Transavia allows luggage pooling under specific conditions:
- Multiple bags per person: If you book a 30 kg allowance, you can split that weight across two suitcases (for instance, one weighing 18 kg and one weighing 12 kg).
- Passengers on the same booking reference: If two or more passengers travel on the same reservation, they can combine their total checked weight allowance. For example, if two passengers each book a 20 kg allowance (40 kg total), one person can check a 24 kg suitcase and the other a 16 kg suitcase without paying an overweight fee.
Remember that no individual suitcase can weigh more than 32 kg, even if your pooled allowance is higher.
Excess, Overweight, and Oversized Baggage Fees
If your suitcase weighs more than your pre-booked weight tier when placed on the check-in scale, you will face excess baggage charges at the airport counter.
Transavia charges an excess weight rate of approximately €15.00 per excess kilogram. For example, if you purchased a 20 kg tier but your suitcase weighs 23 kg, you will owe roughly €45.00 at check-in.
| Condition | Threshold | Additional fee | Acceptance limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overweight Checked Bag | Any weight exceeding purchased tier | Approx. €15.00 per excess kg | Hard cutoff at 32 kg (70.5 lb) per piece |
| Oversized Checked Bag | Exceeding 158 linear cm (62.2 in) | Special baggage handling fee | Subject to hold cargo constraints |
| Absolute Weight Ceiling | Suitcases weighing over 32 kg (70.5 lb) | Carriage rejected as standard baggage | Must be shipped separately via cargo freight |
Fare Tier Baggage Inclusions
Transavia France structures its retail tickets into three main branded fare families: Basic, Plus, and Max. The luggage benefits bundled into each fare are summarized below.
| Fare Class | Small Personal Item (Under-seat) | Large Cabin Bag (Overhead Bin) | Checked Baggage Allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Fare | Included free (40 x 30 x 20 cm) | Paid add-on required | Paid add-on required |
| Plus Fare | Included free (40 x 30 x 20 cm) | Paid add-on required | 20 kg (44 lb) included |
| Max Fare | Included free (40 x 30 x 20 cm) | Included (Priority Boarding) | 30 kg (66 lb) included |
Note: Large cabin bag availability on Plus fares can vary depending on promotional booking periods. Check your flight summary before completing purchase.
Loyalty, Status, and Partner Allowances
Transavia participates in the Air France-KLM Flying Blue frequent flyer program. While you can earn and redeem Flying Blue Miles and Experience Points (XP) on Transavia France flights, standard elite status perks differ substantially from Air France and KLM mainline operations.
- SkyTeam and Flying Blue Elite Tiers: Flying Blue Silver, Gold, Platinum, and SkyTeam Elite Plus members do not receive free checked bags on Transavia flights.
- Paid Add-Ons Apply: Status holders must purchase checked baggage and overhead cabin bag allowances at the standard published prices.
- Codeshare Flights: If you booked a Transavia flight through Air France as part of a connecting international ticket, review your e-ticket receipt closely. The baggage rules printed on your Air France ticket issuer receipt govern your journey, but Transavia's physical carry-on dimensions remain strictly enforced on board.
Traveling with Infants, Children, and Special Needs
Transavia provides specific baggage provisions for families traveling with young children and passengers requiring medical or mobility support.
Infant Allowances (Under 2 Years Old)
- Cabin Baggage: Infants traveling on an adult's lap do not receive their own cabin baggage allowance. Baby supplies, such as diapers and food, must fit within the accompanying adult's permitted carry-on bag.
- Free Checked Gear: For each infant, you may transport one collapsible stroller/buggy (up to 10 kg) and one approved car seat in the aircraft hold free of charge.
- Stroller Handling: Small folding strollers (such as compact pocket buggies) that meet the 55 x 35 x 25 cm overhead cabin limits can be brought on board if you have purchased an overhead bag allowance. Larger prams must be checked at the check-in counter or tagged at the gate for delivery at the aircraft door upon arrival. If a stroller weighs more than 10 kg, the excess weight is deducted from your paid checked baggage allowance.
Mobility and Medical Equipment
- Mobility Aids: Passengers with reduced mobility can check up to two pieces of mobility equipment (such as wheelchairs, walking frames, or crutches) free of charge. You must notify Transavia customer support at least 48 hours before departure to arrange assistance.
- Medical Supplies: Essential medical equipment required in flight is transported free in the cabin upon presenting a medical certificate. Advance clearance is recommended.
Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, and Pets
Specialized items cannot travel under regular baggage allowances and require dedicated arrangements.
Sports Equipment
Sports equipment, including bicycles, golf bags, skis, snowboards, surfboards, and diving gear, must be booked as special luggage:
- Booking: Can be reserved online via Manage My Booking or at the airport.
- Weight limits: Most sports items are capped at 15 kg to 32 kg depending on the category.
- Packing: Bicycles must be packed in protective travel boxes with handlebars turned parallel, pedals removed, and tires deflated.
Musical Instruments
- In the Cabin: Small instruments (like violins or flutes) that fit within standard large cabin bag dimensions (55 x 35 x 25 cm) and weigh under 10 kg may be brought aboard as your paid cabin bag.
- Extra Seat Booking: For larger instruments (like cellos or guitars) you wish to keep in the cabin, you must purchase an additional adjacent passenger seat.
- In the Hold: Instruments checked into the cargo hold must be packed in a rigid, hard-shell flight case.
Pet Policies
Transavia permits small dogs and cats in the cabin, provided the pet and carrier together weigh no more than 8 kg (17.6 lb). The carrier must be well-ventilated, waterproof, and fit under the seat. Larger pets weighing up to 75 kg (including crate) must travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold. Pets must be reserved well in advance due to strict cabin quotas.
What Happens if Your Bag Is Too Large or Heavy
If you arrive at the airport with noncompliant luggage, here is how the process works:
- At Check-in (Overweight Luggage): If your checked suitcase exceeds the pre-booked tier, the check-in agent will assess the per-kilogram fee (approx. €15/kg). If you are traveling with companions on the same reservation, ask the agent to pool your weights across all bags before paying.
- At the Boarding Gate (Oversized Carry-On): Gate agents place suspected bags into the steel sizer. If the bag fails to fit comfortably, staff will scan your boarding pass, print a hold bag tag, collect the €65 to €75 gate penalty via card reader, and load your suitcase into the cargo hold.
- Check-in Deadlines: Standard baggage drop counters close strictly 40 minutes before departure for European flights, and 50 to 60 minutes before departure for non-Schengen destinations (such as flights to Morocco, Tunisia, or Algeria). Arriving late results in canceled check-in and denied boarding.
Transavia France Baggage Checklist
Use this pre-departure checklist to avoid surprise gate surcharges and airport excess fees.
- Measure including wheels and handles. Sizing boxes at Paris Orly, Lyon, and Nantes have rigid steel borders that will catch protruding casters and handles.
- Weigh your combined carry-on items. Your small under-seat item and overhead bag cannot exceed 10 kg (22 lb) in total cabin weight.
- Add checked luggage online early. Pre-booking checked weight online costs less than half of what you will pay at the airport check-in counter.
- Check your fare bundle limits. Remember that Basic and Plus fares do not include a free overhead cabin bag.
- Pool weights with your travel party. If traveling on the same booking code, balance heavier items across companions' suitcases to keep every individual piece under 32 kg.
- Prepare a card for payment. Transavia boarding gates do not accept cash if you are assessed a gate baggage surcharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a carry-on bag free on Transavia France flights?
Only one small personal item (max 40 x 30 x 20 cm) that fits under the seat in front of you is free on all fares. A standard large overhead cabin bag (max 55 x 35 x 25 cm) requires a paid add-on or a Max fare ticket.
What are the exact dimensions for Transavia's free under-seat bag?
The maximum permitted size is 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 in). This measurement includes all wheels, handles, and packed exterior pockets.
What happens if my carry-on bag exceeds the 10 kg limit?
If your carry-on luggage exceeds the combined 10 kg (22 lb) threshold, it cannot stay in the passenger cabin. You will be required to check the bag into the aircraft hold and pay the corresponding airport or gate-check fee.
Can two passengers share a Transavia checked baggage weight allowance?
Yes. Passengers traveling on the same booking reference can pool their total purchased checked baggage weight across multiple bags. However, no single suitcase may weigh more than 32 kg (70.5 lb).
Do Flying Blue Elite members get free checked bags on Transavia?
No. Flying Blue Silver, Gold, Platinum, and SkyTeam Elite Plus members do not receive free checked baggage allowances on Transavia flights. You must purchase luggage add-ons at standard rates.
What is the fee if my cabin bag is checked at the boarding gate?
Unpaid overhead bags or carry-on items that exceed the allowable dimensions incur a gate penalty fee between €65.00 and €75.00. The bag is tagged and loaded into the cargo hold, and payment must be made by card.
What baby equipment can I bring for an infant on Transavia?
You can check one collapsible stroller (up to 10 kg) and one car seat into the cargo hold free of charge for an infant under 2 years old. If the stroller exceeds 10 kg, the remaining weight is deducted from your purchased baggage allowance.
When traveling with Transavia France, your base ticket covers only a compact personal item fitting under the seat. If you need standard overhead trolley space or hold luggage, paying for these add-ons online during initial booking delivers the lowest rate.
Always weigh your packed carry-on bags together before leaving for the airport to ensure they do not exceed the combined 10 kg threshold. If you need to check larger suitcases, select a weight tier that accommodates your packing needs, and verify that no single bag exceeds 32 kg.
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.
