Ethiopian Airlines is the flag carrier of Ethiopia and one of the largest airlines in Africa.
If you’re flying with them, it’s important to know their baggage rules so you don’t get hit by their hefty fees at the airport.
In this post I will help you understand Ethiopian Airlines luggage policy, what you can and can’t bring so you won’t have any surprises at the airport.
Let’s get started.
What Is Ethiopian Airlines Carry-on Baggage Allowance?
Is Ethiopian Airlines strict about carry-on bags?
Not really, but you still need to follow their rules so you don’t have to pay extra.
Here’s what you’re can bring for free:
- Business Class: 2 small bags, each weighing up to 7 kg
- Economy Class: 1 small bag, up to 7 kg
Your bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
It also has to be smaller than: 23 x 40 x 55 cm
You can also bring these small items for free (up to 5 kg total):
- A handbag or purse
- A laptop
- A coat or blanket
- A small camera or binoculars
- A book or magazine
- Baby food for the flight
- A basket for your baby
- Duty-free shopping bags
- A wheelchair, crutches, or medical devices (if you need them)
What Is Ethiopian Airlines Checked Baggage Policy?
For flights inside the Country (Domestic Flights):
- Business Class: 1 bag up to 32 kg
- Economy Class: 1 bag up to 23 kg
If your bag is too heavy, they might not accept it.
Flights to or from the USA and Canada:
- You can bring 2 checked bags for free in both Economy and Business.
- If you’re a ShebaMiles member, you may get to bring extra bags for free:
ShebaMiles Silver:
- 1 extra bag up to 23 kg
- Bag size limit: 158 cm (all sides added together)
ShebaMiles Gold:
- 1 extra bag up to 32 kg
- Same size limit: 158 cm
Extra bag fees:
If you bring more bags than allowed, here’s what you’ll pay (for each extra bag, one-way):
- USA / Canada ↔ Addis Ababa: $160
- Middle East / Asia ↔ USA/Canada: $250
- Other flights: $200
Long Trips (Long-Haul Flights)
You can check 2 bags for free on long flights.
Here’s what you can bring:
| Route | Business | Economy |
| To / From the USA | 2 bags, 32 kg each OR 3 bags, 23 kg each | 2 bags, 23 kg each |
Traveling with a Baby?
If your baby doesn’t have their own seat, you can bring:
- A stroller or pushchair (can go in the cabin if there’s space)
- 1 bag up to 10 kg
What Happens If Your Bag Is Overweight or Oversized?
If your bags are too big, too heavy, or if you have more bags than allowed, you’ll need to pay extra.
You can find excess baggage rates here .
Can I Buy Extra Bags Before My Flight?
Yes, you can buy more baggage if you need it:
- On the Ethiopian Airlines website
- At the airport
- At Ethiopian ticket offices
- By calling their customer service
Buying online is usually cheaper than buying at the airport.
Sports Equipment
- Ski gear (1 pair of skis, poles, boots) = extra charge for 3 kg
- Golf gear (1 bag + 1 pair of shoes) = extra charge for 6 kg
If it’s too heavy, you’ll pay normal extra baggage fees.
What to Do If Your Bag Is Lost or Delayed?
If your bag is lost or late, tell the airline before leaving the baggage area.
The airline will try to find your bag as soon as they can.
If your bag is damaged, go to this page to learn how to report it.
Final Thoughts on Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Rules
Ethiopian Airlines is slightly generous with its free baggage allowance, especially on long flights and international routes.
You can bring a carry-on bag and check in larger bags depending on your ticket type.
When it comes to carry-on bags, Ethiopian Airlines is not too strict, but your bag still needs to fit the size and weight limits.
Economy passengers can bring 1 bag up to 7 kg, and business passengers can bring 2 bags up to 7 kg each.
To skip any extra fees at the airport, make sure your bags are the right size and weight.
If you bring extra luggage, it is better to buy more baggage online it’s usually cheaper than paying at the airport.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
More Airlines Rules:
- What Is South African Airways Baggage Allowance?
- Does Etihad Have a Strict Baggage Policy?
- Is TURKISH Airlines Strict With Baggage?
- Is Emirates strict with cabin baggage?
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