Luggage Services and Regulations at Arenal Airport
Everything you need to know about baggage services, allowances, and regulations when traveling through Arenal Airport. Please note that while we provide general information, specific luggage allowances and fees vary by airline.
Important: Always check with your airline for the most up-to-date information regarding baggage allowances, size and weight restrictions, and fees before your journey.
Baggage Types and Regulations
Carry-On Baggage
Items you can bring into the aircraft cabin.
- General Size Limit: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches)
- General Weight Limit: 7-10 kg (15-22 lbs)
- Typical Allowance: 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item (such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack)
Carry-on baggage must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Size and weight restrictions vary by airline and aircraft type.
Checked Baggage
Luggage that will be transported in the cargo hold of the aircraft.
- General Size Limit: Sum of length + width + height should not exceed 158 cm (62 inches)
- General Weight Limit: 23 kg (50 lbs) per piece
- Typical Allowance: Varies by airline, ticket class, and route
Checked baggage will be tagged and transported in the aircraft's cargo hold. You'll receive a baggage claim ticket for each checked item.
Special Items
Oversized or unusual items that require special handling.
- Sports Equipment: Surfboards, golf clubs, fishing equipment
- Musical Instruments: May require special arrangements
- Medical Equipment: Usually exempt from standard limitations
- Oversized Items: Items exceeding standard size limitations
Special items may require pre-booking and additional fees. Contact your airline in advance to make arrangements.
Prohibited Items
Items that cannot be transported by air according to Costa Rican and international regulations.
- In Carry-On:
- Liquids over 100ml
- Sharp objects (knives, scissors with blades over 6cm)
- Firearms and weapons
- Explosives and flammable items
- In Both Carry-On and Checked:
- Illegal substances
- Hazardous materials
- Certain wildlife products
Airline Baggage Allowances
Below is a general overview of baggage allowances for airlines operating at Arenal Airport. Always check with your airline for the most current information.
| Airline | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Baggage Allowance (Economy) | Excess Baggage Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rican Airlines | 1 bag (10kg) + 1 personal item | 1 bag up to 23kg | $30-50 per additional bag |
| Arenal Express | 1 bag (8kg) + 1 personal item | 1 bag up to 20kg | $25-40 per additional bag |
| Tropical Airways | 1 bag (10kg) + 1 personal item | 2 bags up to 23kg each | $35-60 per additional bag |
| Central American Air | 1 bag (7kg) + 1 personal item | 1 bag up to 23kg | $40-70 per additional bag |
Luggage Wrapping Service
For added security, luggage wrapping services are available in the main terminal near the check-in counters.
- Cost: $10-15 USD per item depending on size
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
- Payment: Cash (USD and colones) and major credit cards accepted
Baggage Claim Process
Arrival and Immigration
After disembarking from your flight, proceed through immigration control. Have your passport and completed immigration form ready.
Baggage Claim Area
Follow signs to the baggage claim area. Check the information screens to find your flight's assigned baggage carousel.
Collect Your Luggage
Wait for your luggage to appear on the carousel. Verify the tag numbers match your claim tickets.
Customs Declaration
Proceed to customs with your collected baggage and complete the necessary customs declaration.
Exit to Arrivals Hall
After clearing customs, exit to the arrivals hall where you can find ground transportation or meet those waiting for you.
Lost or Damaged Baggage
If your baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged, please follow these steps:
- Report the issue immediately at the baggage service counter before leaving the baggage claim area
- Complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with your baggage details
- Provide your contact information and local address
- Keep a copy of the report and your baggage claim tags
- Contact your airline for follow-up and compensation information
Time Limit: Most airlines require that you report lost or damaged baggage within 24 hours of arrival. Failure to report promptly may affect your claim.
Baggage Storage Services
Short-term baggage storage is available at Arenal Airport for passengers who wish to leave their luggage while exploring the area.
- Location: Main terminal, near the information desk
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
- Rates:
- Small items (backpacks, carry-ons): $5 USD per day
- Medium items (standard suitcases): $8 USD per day
- Large items (oversized luggage): $12 USD per day
- Security: All items will be screened before storage
- Identification: Valid ID required for drop-off and pickup
Baggage Services Contact Information
Phone: +506 2479 9080
Email: baggage@arenal-airport.com
Location: Baggage claim area, next to carousel 2
Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
Phone: +506 2479 9081
Location: Main terminal, near information desk
Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily