If you’re booking a flight with Copa Airlines, it’s essential to understand their carry-on size and weight restrictions to avoid any issues at the airport.
Copa Airlines, which flies to over 100 destinations worldwide, has clear rules for its cabin baggage.
In this article, we’ll break down the carry-on baggage rules, share practical tips for packing efficiently, and answer the burning question: How strict is Copa Airlines with carry-on size?
Let’s dive right in.

What are Copa Airlines Carry-on Size and Weight Limits?
Copa Airlines agrees that each passenger can bring one cabin bag and one personal item free of charge.
Let’s dive in more to the specifics:
- Cabin Bag Weight and Size Limits:
Your carry-on bag can measure up to 46 linear inches (118 cm) in total.
The dimensions are: - Height: 22” (56 cm), Length: 14” (36 cm), Width: 10” (26 cm),
The total linear dimensions exclude suitcase wheels.
How Strict is Copa Airlines About Carry-on Weight?
In economy class, the total combined weight of your carry-on and personal item should not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
In business class and for certain frequent flyer statuses (like Star Alliance Gold or ConnectMiles Prefer Members), the limit is the same weight per item but with the option for additional bags.
Though Copa Airlines enforces these limits, they rarely weigh carry-on bags at the gate.
Bur, it’s still wise to stay within the weight limit to avoid the risk of being asked to check your bag.
What is the Allowance for Personal Items?
Copa Airlines also allows a smaller personal item to accompany your main carry-on. Here are the details:
- Personal Item Size Limits: Height: 17” (43 cm) Length: 10” (25 cm) Width: 9” (22 cm)
The personal item could be a purse, backpack, laptop case, briefcase, or even a gaming console.
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What Happens if Your Carry-on is Over the Limit?
If your cabin bag is over the size or weight limit, you could be asked to check it in. Hard-shell suitcases are particularly risky since they are less flexible than soft-sided bags.
If you have a backpack or soft duffel, you may have a better chance.
The key is to check your bag with the airline sizer before boarding to avoid any issues.
Copa Airlines Carry-on Liquids Policy
Like most airlines, Copa Airlines has specific guidelines for carrying liquids.
You are permitted to carry liquids, gels, and creams as long as each container is no larger than 100 ml / 3.4 oz.
These must fit in a single, resealable quart sized bag that doesn’t exceed 1 liter (34.8 oz). Make sure your liquid items fit within these restrictions to avoid delays at security.
Practical Tips for Packing Efficiently with Copa Airlines
If your carry-on bag is slightly larger or heavier than allowed, can you still take it?
While Copa’s rules may seem strict, there’s a little room for flexibility especially if you’re using a soft-sided bag like a backpack or duffel bag.
A little over the weight limit might go unnoticed, but it’s always better to be ready for any surprises, particularly during busy travel times.
Copa Airlines Baggage Fees for Extra Items
Extra Carry-On Bags:
While most passengers get one carry-on bag and one personal item, if you need more, you’ll need to pay for it.
Extra bags in business or economy class can cost around $175 each, so it’s best to pack light or use a personal item to maximize space.
Copa Airlines Baggage Restrictions for Special Items
Copa Airlines restricts certain items, especially in carry-on baggage. Here’s a quick summary:
- Lithium batteries: Allowed in carry-on, not in checked baggage.
- Camping stoves & fuel containers: Not allowed in carry-on, but can be transported in checked baggage (after cleaning).
- Electronics like e-cigarettes: Not allowed in the cabin or checked baggage.
- Food: Allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, but must be packed tightly.
Copa Airlines Checked Baggage
The following table Explain Copa Airlines Included Checked baggage allowance limits, by class and destination:
Class | Number of bags allowed and Weight limits | Size limits | Please Note |
Business Class | First bag:Free 32kg (70lbs)Second bag: Included32kg (70lbs) | must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) linear ; total height + length + width | – |
Economy class- full fare | First bag:Free 23kg (50lbs)Second bag:Included23kg (50lbs) | must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) linear ; total height + length + width | To Mexico, the first allowed bag is 25kg instead of 23kg. |
Economy Class – Promo & Classic Fares | First bag:Free 23kg (50lbs)Second bag:$4023kg (50lbs) | must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) linear ; total height + length + width | – |
ConnectMiles PreferMembers Presidential / Platinum / Gold | 1st, 2nd y 3rd bags:Free32kg (70lbs) | must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) linear ; total height + length + width | – |
ConnectMiles PreferMember Silver | First bag:Free 23kg (50lbs)Second bag:Free23kg (50lbs) | must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) linear ; total height + length + width | – |
Star Alliance Gold Status | 1st, 2nd y 3rd bags:Free 32kg (70lbs) | must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) linear ; total height + length + width | – |
Copa Airlines Extra Baggage
Class | piece limits | Weight limits | Fees |
Business Class | (3rd & 4th) | 23kg (50lbs) | $175 each |
Economy class- full fare | (3rd & 4th) | 23kg (50lbs) | $175 each |
Economy Class – Promo & Classic Fares | (3rd & 4th) | 23kg (50lbs) | $175 each |
ConnectMiles PreferMembers Presidential / Platinum / Gold | (4th & 5th) | 23kg (50lbs) | $175 each |
ConnectMiles PreferMember Silver | (3rd & 4th) | 23kg (50lbs) | $175 each |
Star Alliance Gold Status | (4th & 5th) | 23kg (50lbs) | $175 each |
Copa Airlines Restricted Items
For your safety and safety of all Copa Airlines Guests, the Airline has limits and restriction on carrying certain items on board its aircraft.
Items | Carry-on Baggage | Checked Baggage | Observations |
---|---|---|---|
Lithium batteries | Allowed | Not Allowed | |
Camping stoves & fuel containers | Not Allowed | Allowed (if cleaned and no liquid remains) | |
Cartridges or toner for printers > 450 g | Not Allowed | Not Allowed | |
Chemicals (paints, solvents, fuels, etc.) | Not Allowed | Not Allowed | |
Dry ice (solid CO2) | Allowed | Allowed (max 2.5 kg) | |
Electronic Cigarettes | Not Allowed in cabin | Not Allowed | Devices/batteries may not be recharged or used onboard |
Food | Allowed | Allowed | Must be packed tightly to prevent release |
Lighters | Not Allowed | Not Allowed | |
Liquids, gels, sprays, and alcohol | Allowed | Allowed | |
Medications | Allowed | Allowed |
Final Thoughts
Copa Airlines has clear baggage rules, and while they may seem strict, you have some flexibility if you pack smart.
The key is to stick to the size and weight limits as much as possible to avoid any surprises at the gate.
If you have doubts, it’s always best to double-check with the airline or plan to use a compliant carry-on bag that fits Copa’s guidelines perfectly.
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