Baggage Guidelines for U.S. Airlines Flying to Israel
Traveling to Israel from the United States involves long-haul international flights, and baggage policies can vary significantly depending on the airline, fare type, and ticket class.
Below is a detailed overview of baggage guidelines for major U.S. airlines and the primary Israeli carrier.
American Airlines
Carry on Allowance: 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item (included in all fares) Checked Baggage (Economy Class) Typically 1 checked bag (23 kg / 50 lbs) included on standard international tickets Basic Economy fares may not include a free checked bag Additional Details: Maximum size: 158 cm (62 inches) Maximum weight: Economy: 23 kg (50 lbs) Business/First: up to 32 kg (70 lbs) Additional bags incur fees (varies by route and booking) Key Takeaway: American Airlines offers standard international baggage, but travelers should carefully check fare type -especially Basic Economy, which may exclude luggage.
Delta Air Lines
Carry on Allowance: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (standard across all fares) Checked Baggage (Economy Class) Usually 1 free checked bag (23 kg) on long-haul international routes (including Israel routes via partners) Additional Details: Additional bags typically cost extra Fees and allowances may vary depending on: Fare class: Frequent flyer status Credit card benefits Key Takeaway: Delta generally includes 1 checked bag on international flights, but policies can vary-especially when flying via partner airlines like EL AL.
United Airlines
Carry-on Allowance: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item included Checked Baggage (Economy Class) Typically 1 checked bag (23 kg) included on international flights Some lower fares (like Basic Economy) may charge for checked baggage Additional Details: Credit card holders and elite members may receive: 1–2 free checked bags Second bag often incurs a fee (~$100 range depending on route) Key Takeaway: United’s baggage policy is similar to Delta, with 1 included bag for standard international fares, but additional fees for lower fare classes.
EL AL Israel Airlines
Carry-on Allowance: Economy: 1 carry-on (up to 8 kg) Checked Baggage (U.S. ↔ Israel Routes) Economy: 1 checked bag (23 kg) Premium Economy: 2 bags (23 kg each) Business Class: 2 bags (32 kg each) Additional Details: Extra baggage fees apply for additional pieces Second checked bag can cost $100+ each way Oversize/overweight fees apply Key Takeaway: EL AL offers a clear and structured baggage system, often similar or slightly more generous than U.S. airlines, especially in higher fare classes.
Important Notes for Travelers to Israel​
Fare Type Matters: Basic Economy tickets (on U.S. airlines) may: Not include checked baggage Charge additional fees Codeshare Flights: Many U.S. airlines (especially Delta) operate flights to Israel via partnerships with EL AL In these cases, baggage rules may follow the operating airline Weight & Size Limits (Standard Across Airlines): Weight: 23 kg (50 lbs) for economy Size: 158 cm total dimensions Overweight/oversized bags incur additional fees Security & Timing: Flights to Israel often require: Earlier arrival at the airport Additional security screening
Final Recommendation for Travelers
For trips to Israel, most airlines include at least one checked bag, but travelers should: 1.Always check their specific ticket type 2.Confirm baggage rules if flying with multiple airlines 3.Consider purchasing baggage in advance to save on fees
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Journey
Baggage policies can vary depending on your airline, fare type, and route. We recommend reviewing your airline’s guidelines before departure to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
If you have any questions or need assistance planning your journey to the Holy Land, our team is here to help every step of the way.