Viva Aerobus Baggage Policy

Flying with Mexico's leading ultra-low-cost carrier soon? If you've booked a trip with Viva Aerobus, understanding their baggage rules is crucial. 

Their “pay-for-what-you-need” model means ticket prices are low, but baggage mistakes can be expensive.

At a Glance: Viva Aerobus Baggage Allowances 2026

Before diving into the details, here is a quick summary of what each fare combo typically includes. Note that Viva Aerobus recently rebranded some fare names (e.g., “Light” is now often referred to as “Switch”).

Note: Policies can vary based on whether your flight is domestic (within Mexico) or international. Always check your specific booking confirmation.

Connecting Flights & Multi-Airline Trips: If your itinerary involves connecting flights or partner airlines, make sure to check and compare their specific baggage allowances: Virgin Atlantic Baggage Policy and Volaris Baggage Policy.

Carry-On Baggage Rules

Viva Aerobus is strict about cabin luggage. Your allowance depends entirely on the fare you purchased.

1. The Personal Item (Free for Everyone)

Every single passenger, regardless of fare class, is allowed one personal item free of charge.

• Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
• Rules: It must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
• Examples: A purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or diaper bag.

2. The Standard Carry-On Bag

This is the larger bag that goes in the overhead bin. It is NOT included in the “Zero” fare.

• Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 10 inches (55 x 40 x 25 cm), including wheels and handles.
• Weight Limit:
  • Switch/Extra Fare: Max 22 lbs (10 kg).
  • Smart Fare: Max 33 lbs (15 kg).

Warning for Zero Fare Passengers

If you booked the cheapest option (Zero), you cannot bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin unless you pay to upgrade. If you arrive at the gate with a carry-on, you will be charged a high gate fee to check it.

Checked Baggage Fees and Weight Limits

If you are packing for a longer trip, you'll likely need to check a bag. The weight limit depends on your ticket, but the physical size limit is standard across the board.

• Maximum Size: 62 linear inches (158 cm) – this is length + width + height.
• Maximum Weight:
  • Extra Fare: 33 lbs (15 kg).
  • Smart Fare: 55 lbs (25 kg).

Purchasing Extra Bags

You can add extra baggage to any fare. It is significantly cheaper to do this online before your flight than at the airport. You can typically add bags weighing:

• 33 lbs (15 kg)
• 44 lbs (20 kg)
• 55 lbs (25 kg)
• 70 lbs (32 kg)

Fee Estimates (2026)

While exact prices fluctuate based on route and season, expect to pay approximately $30 - $45 USD (or ~600-900 MXN) for a standard checked bag if booked online. Airport fees can be nearly double this amount.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

If your bag is heavier or larger than your pre-purchased allowance, you will pay a penalty.

• Overweight Fee: Charged per kilogram of excess weight.
• Oversize Fee: Charged if the bag exceeds 62 linear inches (158 cm). This fee is currently around $35 USD (international) or ~522 MXN (domestic).

Special Baggage Items

Flying with more than just a suitcase? Here is how Viva Aerobus handles special equipment.

Sports Equipment

Surfboards, golf clubs, bicycles, and diving gear can be checked, but they are not considered standard luggage.

• Cost: Approximately $60 - $75 USD (~1150 MXN) depending on the item and booking method.
• Weight Limit: Max 70 lbs (32 kg).
• Size Limit: Max 126 linear inches (319 cm).

Musical Instruments

Small instruments (like a violin or flute) can be your carry-on if they fit in the overhead bin and meet the 22 x 16 x 10 inch dimensions. 

Larger instruments (guitars, cellos) must be checked as special baggage or require the purchase of an extra seat if you wish to keep them in the cabin.

Infants and Strollers

If you are traveling with an infant (under 2 years old) on your lap:

• You can check a stroller and a car seat free of charge.
• A diaper bag is allowed as the infant’s personal item, provided it fits the personal item dimensions.

5 Tips to Save Money on Viva Aerobus Baggage

Book the Right Combo Initially

If you know you need a checked bag, buy the “Smart” fare. It is usually cheaper than buying a “Zero” fare and adding a bag later.

Pay Online, Not at the Airport

Viva Aerobus charges a premium for airport transactions. Adding a bag via the website or app up to 4 hours before departure can save you up to 50%.

Measure Your Personal Item

Staff at Mexican airports often ask passengers to place bags in the “sizer” bins. If your backpack sticks out, they will charge you.

Weigh Bags at Home

A bag that is 1 kg overweight can incur fees almost as high as buying a whole new bag allowance.

Join Doters

Viva's loyalty program sometimes offers perks or easier ways to manage add-ons.