SunExpress Baggage Allowance & Extra Fees Explained

When planning your next getaway to Turkey or Europe, a quick look at SunExpress's baggage allowance will help ensure a relaxed start to your holiday. Whether you’re travelling light with a SunLight fare or an all-inclusive SunComfort ticket, the weight and size limits can change depending on where you’re heading. Even a small size mistake, especially with the SunLight fare, can mean big fees at the last minute. We’ve broken it all down for you, from cabin allowance to sports gear, so you can pack efficiently and avoid unexpected fees at the check-in desk.

Note: “Sun Air Express” is often confused with SunExpress. Be aware that the former (operated by Southern Airways Express) follows a more restrictive baggage policy, with Sun Air Express's baggage policy typically set at 15 lb (~7 kg).

Summary of SunExpress Baggage Allowance

SunExpress's baggage limits depend on your fare, so a quick check of the size and weight limits can help you avoid extra fees later. When flying with SunExpress, your baggage falls into three categories:

1. Personal Item: All passengers are permitted one small bag to be stowed under the seat. For SunLight tickets, this is the only free bag allowed.

2. Carry-on: Standard cabin bags stored in the overhead bin are included in all fares except SunLight. SunLight fares exclude carry-on bags, but you can add one starting at about €19.99.

3. Checked Luggage: Checked luggage limits vary by ticket and route:

• Allowance: 15 kg – 35 kg 

• SunLight Fares: No checked bag included; available for purchase.

• For other fares, you can purchase additional weight increments online.

Size and Weight Limits by Luggage Type

SunExpress Baggage Allowance by Ticket Type

Sun Express Hand Baggage Allowance

What is the baggage allowance with SunExpress? When flying with SunExpress, you are always permitted one piece of hand luggage (also commonly known as cabin baggage), though your specific allowance depends on the fare you’ve selected. To make packing a little easier, here’s a straightforward breakdown of Sun Express hand baggage rules by fare type:

Make sure your cabin bag fits within the 55 x 40 x 23 cm overhead limit.

The smaller hand luggage - SunLight Fare

While SunLight fare is the most economical choice, it is also the most restrictive regarding cabin allowance. Pack light, as your baggage is limited to:

• Maximum weight: Up to 4 kg

• Dimensions: 40 x 30 x 20 cm

• Must fit under the seat in front

SunLight fares are for under-seat bags only. If you show up at the gate with a bigger carry-on bag without pre-booking "Hand Baggage", you could be charged up to 80 € on the spot. This means you should always stick to a purpose-built underseat backpack to avoid trouble. 

CABINZERO’s tips: It’s always a good idea to double-check your bag against the latest allowance. Check out this comprehensive carry-on luggage guide so you can always arrive at the gate fully prepared and compliant every time. 

Standard Hand Baggage - All other fares

If you’re travelling on SunValue, SunEco+, or SunComfort, SunExpress gives you a more generous cabin allowance:

• Maximum weight: Up to 8 kg

• Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 23 cm

• Must fit in the overhead locker

Checked Bag Allowance on SunExpress

Unlike other low-cost airlines, SunExpress doesn't apply the universal 23 kg rule for its checked bags. Instead, Sun Express baggage rules depend on your fare type and whether your flight is international or domestic.

 Domestic Routes

For flights within Turkey, your SunExpress checked baggage allowance is fixed by fare:

International Routes 

On international flights, this is how Sun Express's checked baggage limits are strictly tied to your fare class.

For international flights, most flights come with the higher allowance of 30 kg or 35 kg for SunEco+ and SunComfort. If you’re flying to/from Antalya, Bodrum, and Dalaman, however, the lower 20kg/25kg limit will apply. Here are two other important rules for checked bag allowance to keep in mind:

• Keep it under 32kg: Like with most airlines, there's a strict 32kg cap on any single piece of luggage when you're flying SunExpress. If your bag is over this limit, you’ll need to split the items into another bag or leave them behind.

• Watch the Dimensions: Bags should not exceed 158 cm in total dimensions (L+W+H). Anything larger may be subject to an additional fee of about €45 or 700 ₺.

Some travel with only a carry-on to save on baggage fees.

Special Baggage: Sports & CPAP Equipment

A great holiday often means bringing along some special gear. Whether you're travelling with golf equipment or medical essentials, SunExpress makes it pretty easy to handle those extra items.

Sports Equipment

Whether you're off to the Turquoise Coast for some diving or planning a biking trip through the Taurus Mountains, SunExpress makes it fairly easy to bring your gear along. Our biggest piece of advice? Book it online under "My Bookings" at least 48 hours before you fly. It's up to 50% cheaper than those last-minute airport fees.

• Bicycles: Prices start from €49.99 if you prepay. Remember to pack it properly in a protective case.

• Golf Equipment: Dedicated bundles available from €39.99/£34.99.

• Diving Gear: Empty the tanks and keep the valves open. In addition, keep your diving lamp batteries in your carry-on to avoid any short circuits.

• Surf & Kite Boards: Boards can be up to 122 cm wide and 84 cm high. If it exceeds 158cm, you’ll likely see an "oversized" fee on your bill.

CPAP and Assisting Medical Equipment

SunExpress treats  CPAP machines, nebulisers, and dialysis equipment as essential medical gear. This means these items are allowed on board.

However, you’ll need to call customer service at least 48 hours before departure. Have your device’s brand and model ready for the agent. 

If you want to use your device mid-flight, make sure you bring a battery-powered version, since you can’t rely on seat power. Double-check that your medical equipment doesn't exceed 84 x 120 cm.

Musical Instruments Policy on SunExpress

We know your instruments are precious, so here’s a quick guide on how to fly with them. SunExpress is quite accommodating, but it does have a clear set of rules for handling different types of instruments.

• Cabin Allowance: If your gear fits the hand luggage dimensions (55 x 40 x 23 cm) and stays under 8 kg, you can bring it right into the cabin.

• Extra Seat Option: For a delicate, medium-sized instrument that you just don't want to put in the hold, booking an extra seat will give you peace of mind. At around €39.99 (£34.99) per flight, you can keep your gear right next to you in the cabin. Since it’s a special arrangement, you’ll need to call the Customer Service Centre rather than online.

• Special Baggage: If your instrument is too big for the cabin, it’ll need to go in the hold as special baggage. Since it’s going on a bit of a journey under the plane, make sure your gear is in a tough, hard-shell case.

CABINZERO’s tips: No matter what you’re bringing, your instrument cannot weigh more than 32kg. We recommend notifying the airline at least 48 hours ahead so they can reserve space for your instrument.

SunExpress Extra Baggage & Excess Fees

How much does extra baggage cost on SunExpress? If you're planning to bring more than your fare includes, it’s worth knowing how SunExpress handles the extras. Here’s a simple guide to their extra baggage and excess fees.

Pre-booking: The 70% Discount

If you think your suitcase might be pushing the limit, it's wise to add extra baggage before departure. SunExpress offers bundles in 5kg, 10kg, 15kg, or 20kg up to 3 hours prior to your flight. These pre-booked extra baggage packages are 70% cheaper than what you’d get at the airport.

• International Flights: Prices begin at €19.99 for 5kg.

• Domestic Flights: Prices begin at ₺699.

• From the UK: Prices begin at £24.99 (SunLight fares only) and £34.99 (Other fares).

The Airport Penalty

Leaving baggage upgrades until the airport can be costly. Instead of a fixed bundle rate, passengers are charged on a per-kilogram basis.

• International/UK routes: Minimum €10 or £10 per kilogram

• Pay early: Even a small 2kg excess could cost more than buying 5kg in advance

• For bulky gear: if your bag is bigger than 158cm (L+W+H), you'll face a flat fee of €45 / £80.

CABINZERO’s tips: For the safety of the ground crew, no single suitcase can weigh more than 32kg. If your luggage is heavier, just split it into two or more suitcases.

SunExpress Infant Allowance

It is worth noting that SunExpress is quite accommodating for those flying with infants. When you're familiar with the weight allowances for their essentials, you're good to go.

• Checked Luggage: Infants on a parent’s lap are entitled to 20 kg of checked luggage for international flights and 15 kg for domestic travel within Türkiye.

• The SunLight Exception: If you're flying with the basic "SunLight" fare, no checked baggage allowance is included for the infant.

• Free Essential Gear: The airline carries essential baby gear like buggies, pushchairs, car seats, travel cots, etc., free of charge. The crew will stow them in the hold for you, so you don't have to worry about hauling the heavy gear through the plane yourself.

Booking and Check-in Process with SunExpress

From securing your seat to getting your boarding pass, the booking and check-in process with SunExpress is designed to be straightforward for its passengers.

How to Book Your Flight With SunExpress

Step 1: Visit the SunExpress website: Go to the official website sunexpress.com or use the SunExpress mobile app.

Step 2: Enter your trip details: Enter your destination, departure and travel dates.

Step 3: Select Your SunFare: Choose a Sunfare that works for you: SunLight, SunValue, SunEco+, or SunComfort

Your Mediterranean trip starts with a few clicks on the SunExpress portal. A screenshot from the SunExpress official website

Quick Tips: SunLight is carry-on only. If you’re bringing a suitcase, consider upgrading your fare now.

Step 4: Personalise with Extras: Before completing payment, you can enhance your trip with optional add-ons. If you didn’t go for a premium fare, this is your chance to:

• Grab extra baggage at a lower price than you’d pay at the airport.

• Upgrade your space, whether it’s extra legroom or a window seat.

• Pre-order food from SunCafé, usually cheaper than on the plane

Step 5: Complete Payment: Double-check all the essential info before checking out. Just add your details and complete your payment through the secure SSL checkout page. 

Step 6: Receive your e-ticket: After booking, you’ll get an email with a 6-character PNR code. Keep this code safe, as it is essential for check-in and managing your flight later.

How to Check in Online With SunExpress

If you’re like most travellers, you’d rather enjoy one last Turkish coffee than stand in a check-in queue. In 2026, SunExpress may charge extra if you don’t check in online. Here’s how to complete the process step by step from home.

Step 1: Mind the window

Before you start, make sure you’re within the check-in window, as it may vary by departure airport.

• Flights from Turkey: the window might open as early as 72 hours.

• International flights: online check-in typically opens 48 hours before take-off and closes 3.5 hours before take-off.

Step 2: Access the Check-In Portal

Click on the "Check-in" tab if you're visiting the SunExpress homepage. If you’re using the SunExpress mobile app, simply select the check-in option.

How to log in:

• For SunExpress Direct Bookings: If you booked directly with SunExpress, enter your 6-character booking code (PNR) and your last name.

• For Tour Operator Bookings: Switch to the "Tour Operator" tab, then enter your Reference Number and your flight details.

Step 4: Add Extras

Last chance to grab a meal from the SunCafé or add your golf clubs to your trip. If you haven't sorted your extras yet, it's time to do it.

Step 5: Confirm Seats and Bags

Double-check your seats and make sure you’ve got enough baggage room for everything you’re taking. If you’re cutting it close, we recommend purchasing a 5 kg bundle at this step, which is way more cost-effective than those applied at the departure counter.

Step 6: Get your Boarding Pass

Once you're all set, you can download the digital pass to your phone.

CABINZERO’s tips: Certain international hubs, like Bodrum, Dalaman, and Dubai, often require a printed version for security clearance. It's always a good idea to check the local rules before heading to the terminal.

FAQs

SunExpress baggage rules can be a bit confusing, so we have answered the most common questions to help you avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.

1. Is SunExpress strict with hand luggage?

According to past passengers, SunExpress falls somewhere between moderate and strict with their baggage rules. While real-life checks can be inconsistent, they happen often enough that it’s not worth the gamble (especially when the flight is full and busy). 

To avoid extra fees, stick to your baggage limits and don't try to sneak on any extra bags that aren't covered by your fare. Last but not least, don't show up with anything obviously oversized or overweight.

2. Can I take a Bike along my Flight?

SunExpress welcomes bicycles on its flights. However, they're not part of your standard allowance and must be booked in advance. Just register it at least 36 hours before your flight via “My Bookings” or contact the Call Centre. Booking ahead doesn’t just guarantee space - it also locks in the €49.99 prepaid price. Leave it until the airport, and you’ll probably be paying a lot more.

3. When can I book Excess Baggage before Departure?

With SunExpress, the cutoff is three hours before take-off. You can always purchase excess baggage as long as you booked directly from the airline or a legit agency. You can add what you need via "My Bookings", the Sun Express Call Centre, or authorised agencies.

4. Can I combine my 4 kg Underseat Allowance with Extra Baggage?

Unfortunately, you can't combine those two. According to SunExpress policy, your 4kg underseat allowance must be small enough to stay under your seat. Extra Baggage, however, is meant to go into the cargo hold as checked luggage. If you want to bring a heavier suitcase into the cabin, just upgrade your fare. Otherwise, you can add the Hand Baggage allowance via the website, which allows you to store an 8kg trolley bag in the overhead cabins.

Pack Smarter for Your SunExpress Flight

A bit of planning with SunExpress Baggage Allowance can save you from unwelcome fees at the airport. Pack smart and stick to the limits, and you’ll be fine. If you need a new bag that actually fits the bill, our CABINZERO bags strike an excellent balance between durability and size compliance. When your gear respects the limits, you can breeze through the gate and keep your travel essentials right where they belong - with you. Enjoyed these travel tips? Like and share this article if it helps you prepare for your next big adventure. Safe travels!

KELSEY