AV · Colombia · Full-service
Avianca Personal Item Size
Exact personal item rules for Avianca, verified against the airline's own published policy on 2026-04-19.
Quick answer
Yes, a standard backpack, tote, or laptop bag fits as a personal item on Avianca as long as it measures under 17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8" (45 x 35 x 25 cm) and fits fully under the seat in front of you.
On Basic Economy fares, the personal item may be the ONLY bag you are allowed to bring on board without paying extra, so size matters.
Personal Item
- Max dimensions (in)
- 17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8"
- Max dimensions (cm)
- 45 x 35 x 25 cm
- Included
- Yes, free on every fare
- Basic economy
- Often personal item only
Included free on every fare.
Carry-On (for context)
- Max dimensions (in)
- 21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8"
- Max dimensions (cm)
- 55 x 35 x 25 cm
- Fee
- Free
Does your bag count?
Common bag types compared against the Avianca personal item limit. Sizes are typical retail dimensions and vary by brand.
| Bag type | Typical size | On Avianca |
|---|---|---|
| Standard backpack Everyday daypack, laptop backpack | 18 x 13 x 8" | Too big |
| Tote bag Canvas or leather tote | 15 x 14 x 5" | Too big |
| Laptop bag Messenger or slim briefcase | 16 x 12 x 4" | Fits |
| Small duffel Gym or weekender | 18 x 11 x 11" | Too big |
| Purse Handbag or crossbody | 12 x 10 x 5" | Fits |
| Under-seat roller Mini wheeled bag | 16 x 14 x 8" | Too big |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Avianca personal item size limit?
Avianca allows a personal item up to 17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8" (45 x 35 x 25 cm). Included free on every fare.
Does a backpack count as a personal item on Avianca?
Not always. A typical 18 x 13 x 8 inch backpack is larger than the Avianca published personal item limit of 17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8", so it may be treated as a carry-on. Slimmer laptop backpacks often still fit. Measure yours before flying.
Does Avianca weigh personal items?
Personal item weight is not published by Avianca and is rarely enforced at the gate for US domestic flights. On international routes, especially with codeshare partners, agents may weigh bags, so keep your personal item reasonable in weight.
What if my personal item is too big for Avianca?
If your bag exceeds 17.7 x 13.7 x 9.8", a gate agent can ask you to place it in the sizer. If it does not fit, you may need to pay a carry-on or checked bag fee. On Basic Economy fares, an oversized personal item is the most common cause of surprise fees.
Can I bring a personal item plus a carry-on on Avianca Basic Economy?
Often no. Avianca restricts Basic Economy passengers to a personal item only on many routes, with full-size carry-ons either banned or charged as a paid add-on. Read the fare rules at booking before you pack.
Need the full Avianca baggage policy?
Checked bag fees, overweight and oversize charges, special items, and basic economy rules for Avianca, all in one place.
Flying Avianca out of these airports?
Check terminal layouts, connection times, and layover tips for major Avianca hubs and focus cities.
Helpful guides
Bag picks and fee tactics for your Avianca flight.
- Best personal item bags that fit AviancaEight bags sized against Ryanair, Spirit, Frontier, Wizz Air, and the big US carriers.
- Best carry-on bags in 2026If your trip needs more than a personal item, here are carry-ons that fit Avianca.
- How to avoid checked baggage feesSeven tactics that keep you under the personal-item-only fare rule.
Compare other airlines
- LATAM Airlines baggage policy LA · Chile
- Aer Lingus baggage policy EI · Ireland
- Aeromexico baggage policy AM · Mexico
- Air Canada baggage policy AC · Canada
- Air France baggage policy AF · France
- Air India baggage policy AI · India
- Air New Zealand baggage policy NZ · New Zealand
- Alaska Airlines baggage policy AS · United States
Last verified 2026-04-19 against the official Avianca policy at https://www.avianca.com/en/booking/before-your-trip/baggage/ . Airlines change their rules without notice, so always confirm with your carrier before flying.