China Eastern - baggage costs

Hi, I am thinking of travelling with China Eastern from London to Shanghai and then returning back from Beijing. Their Basic Economy price doesn't include any checked bags (just one item of hand luggage).

It seems you have to pay for these separately on their website 6 hours before departure, by selecting the baggage weight in increments of 5kg. They call this "Wild Your Baggage" on the website. Does anyone know roughly how much this might cost? Note, this has nothing to do with excess baggage. Thanks.

China Eastern's Basic Economy fare does indeed exclude checked baggage, allowing only one piece of carry-on luggage. If you wish to add checked baggage, their system—called "Wild Your Baggage"—lets you pre-purchase baggage online before departure, usually starting from 6 hours before the flight. This is different from paying for excess baggage at the airport.

The pricing for adding baggage varies depending on the route, weight, and whether it is purchased online in advance or at the airport. For flights from London to Shanghai (long-haul international), here is a rough guideline based on typical China Eastern charges:

  • 5 kg: Approximately USD 25–30
  • 10 kg: Approximately USD 50–60
  • 15 kg: Approximately USD 75–90
  • 20 kg: Approximately USD 100–120

Notes:

  • The exact amount may fluctuate depending on the date, route, and whether the fare is paid online in advance or at the airport.
  • The price is cumulative; for example, if you select 20 kg, you are paying the total for that 20 kg increment rather than per 5 kg separately.
  • For long-haul international flights, China Eastern’s website sometimes allows you to select up to 40 kg, but the cost rises steeply beyond 20–25 kg.

It is generally cheaper to pre-purchase your baggage online rather than paying for it at the airport, where last-minute baggage fees can be higher. Always check your booking confirmation on the China Eastern website to confirm the exact amount for your specific flight.


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