Avianca Just Made Its Cheapest Fares Way More Practical

Updated: February 2, 2026, 11:10am CST

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Light Fares Now Include a Carry-On on International Routes
Final Thoughts

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In a rare move that actually makes basic economy fares more valuable, Avianca has added a meaningful baggage benefit to some of its lowest-priced tickets. Travelers booking the airline’s Light fare on international routes across the Americas can now bring a carry-on bag at no cost — a welcome change from the ultra-restrictive trend we often see with basic economy tickets.

Let’s take a look at this customer-friendly move.

Light Fares Now Include a Carry-On on International Routes

If you’re flying with Avianca and book a Light fare on an international flight within the Americas, you can now bring 1 carry-on bag weighing up to 10 kilograms (about 22 pounds) in addition to a personal item, all at no added cost.

Avianca economy A320 LAX SAL seat spacing — Avianca’s lowest fares now include a carry-on bag for flights within the Americas. Image Credit: Ryan Smith

This update applies whether you book with cash or redeem miles through Avianca’s Lifemiles program, since baggage allowances are typically tied to the fare type on the ticket. In other words, if your itinerary is issued in a Light fare on an eligible international route, you should receive both the personal item and 10 kilogram carry-on benefit.

Screenshot — If you’re flying on an eligible route on a Light fare, you’ll now see a personal item and carry-on bag included. Image Credit: Avianca

That’s notable because the cheapest fare types on many airlines typically strip out carry-on allowances, seat selection, and flexibility, leaving travelers to pay extra for essentials. By contrast, Avianca’s update makes its lowest international fare tier far more practical for short and medium-haul trips, as passengers can travel with just cabin baggage.

On domestic routes, Avianca’s Light fare remains unchanged and continues to include only 1 personal item. The airline says it will maintain a different structure depending on the type of journey, meaning international and domestic travelers will continue to see different inclusions at the lowest fare levels.

Hot Tip:

If you’re booking an Avianca international flight on a tight budget, the Light fare may now be enough. You could skip checked bag fees and still bring a full carry-on, as long as you stay under the 10-kilogram limit.

Final Thoughts

Basic economy fares are usually where airlines take things away, not add them. That’s why this change stands out. By including a carry-on with its Light fares — Avianca’s version of basic economy — on international routes in the Americas, the airline is making its cheapest tickets far more practical for everyday travelers, especially those who prefer to pack light and avoid extra fees.

It’s a small tweak, but it’s one that could make a noticeable difference in both cost and convenience for Avianca flyers.