Arkia baggage and seat selection rules can add up fast if you add extras without a plan. Arkia is considered one of the key players in Israeli flights to nearby vacation destinations, but its baggage policy has undergone significant changes in recent years. Currently, Arkia operates on a model that separates the basic flight price from additional services, meaning the price you see in the initial search is just the starting point. Understanding the baggage and seating rules is the only way to ensure that the deal you found remains affordable even at the moment of boarding.
Decoding Arkia’s Model: How to Choose Wisely
On Arkia flights, the type of ticket and destination (domestic flight versus international flight) determine what you will receive. From our experience, many passengers assume that with an Israeli company, luggage is automatically included, only to discover at the airport that they need to open their wallets.
Comparing Arkia’s Baggage and Seating Services: What You Get in Each Plan
To help you understand what is included in your ticket and what you will need to pay for separately, we have summarized the main points in a simple breakdown: Small Handbag (up to 7 kg):
- In Basic Eco Ticket: Included in the price.
- In Upgraded Ticket or Vacation Package: Included in the price.
- Cost at the Airport: Included at no extra charge.
Checked Baggage (up to 23 kg):
- In Basic Eco Ticket: Additional charge only.
- In Upgraded Ticket or Vacation Package: The service is usually included in the price.
- Cost at the Airport: Payment at the counter is significantly more expensive than purchasing in advance online.
Advance Seat Selection:
- In Basic Eco Ticket: Additional charge only.
- In Upgraded Ticket or Vacation Package: Additional charge (except for regular seats that may be included).
- Cost at the Airport: You can choose available seats at no cost during check-in.
Arkia Baggage: The Small Pitfalls and Big Savings
At Arkia, the allowed weight for a carry-on (trolley) is lower than some competitors, standing at only 7 kg. This is a critical detail as exceeding by a few kilograms could lead to a charge for a full suitcase.
- Pay Attention to the Large Suitcase: If you purchased a flight ticket only (not as part of a vacation package including a hotel), chances are your ticket does not include checked baggage. Adding a 23 kg suitcase online will usually cost between $35 and $50 per direction.
- The Last-Minute Trap: If you arrive at the airport with a suitcase not paid for in advance, the price may jump to $80 or more. Arkia is very strict about payment at the counters.
- Golden Tip from the Field: On family flights with Arkia to destinations like Greece or Cyprus, it is recommended to purchase one large suitcase for everyone and stick to hand luggage for the other passengers. Since the flights are short, this is a clear saving of hundreds of shekels for the family.
Seating: How to Ensure a Window Seat
Arkia’s seating policy allows you to choose a seat in advance for a fee, or wait for the online check-in to open.
- Preferred Seats: Arkia offers seats in the front rows or near emergency exits with more legroom. The upgrade cost usually ranges from $15 to $40, depending on the flight length and demand.
- Online Check-In: Unlike some low-cost airlines, with Arkia you can choose available seats at no extra cost during online check-in (usually 24 hours before the flight). Those who check in early increase their chances of sitting together with family members.
- Common Surprises: On flights operated by leased aircraft for Arkia, the aircraft and seat configuration may differ from the familiar. It is always advisable to check in the booking management what type of aircraft is planned for your flight.
Before you pack your bags and head to the next vacation we found for you, it’s important to ensure you’ve tied up all the loose ends with the airline. To help you come prepared, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions Arkia passengers ask us at Flight Hunter before takeoff.
FAQ
Am I allowed to bring both a trolley and a small backpack on Arkia? Arkia’s official policy allows for one piece of carry-on luggage weighing up to 7 kg. In practice, they usually allow you to bring a small handbag (like a personal bag), but if your trolley looks too large or heavy, the staff may ask you to weigh it or send it to the hold. I bought a vacation package with Arkia, is the suitcase included? In the vast majority of vacation packages (flight plus hotel), the 23 kg checked baggage is included in the price. However, it is always advisable to check your booking confirmation, as there are last-minute deals based on flights without luggage to reduce costs. How can I sit together with the kids without paying for seating? The best way is to be ready in front of the computer exactly 24 hours before the flight, at the moment when online check-in opens. At this stage, you can see the map of available seats and choose adjacent places at no extra cost, as long as the plane is not completely full.
Bottom Line: How Not to Get Caught Out with Arkia
To fully take advantage of Arkia’s deals, you need to be calculated. If you are flying for a short vacation, try to limit yourself to a 7 kg trolley and save on baggage costs. If you need a suitcase, add it at the moment of booking the flight and not a minute later. We at Flight Hunter scan all Arkia flights and find the price loopholes and hottest deals for Mediterranean and European destinations. Want to be the first to grab a seat on the next flight? Join our WhatsApp groups and always stay in the loop.
