Guide to Surfboard Airline Fees

Flying with Surfboards: The Ultimate Guide for 2025

Flying off in search of waves? Whether you’re heading to warmer waters or just hopping across the UK, taking your surfboard on a plane can be a headache. Airlines have a knack for making things tricky (and pricey), so knowing the rules before you book can save you money and stress.

How much does it cost to take my surfboard on a plane and how long can the board bag be is one of the most popular questions we get asked at Boardshop.

The cost to take a surfboard on a plane varies significantly by airline and route, but expect to pay anywhere from £0 to £55 each way, you can see the full breakdown below.

We’ve done the digging, so you don’t have to. Here’s everything you need to know about flying with surfboards in 2025.

European Airline Surfboard Fees

Worldwide Airline Surfboard Fees

Airline Surfboard Fees Comparison

How to Pack Your Surfboard for a Flight

How it Works at the Airport

What to Do If Your Board Gets Damaged

Final Tips for Flying with Surfboards

European Airline Surfboard Fees

Budget airlines love hidden fees, and surfboards are no exception. Prices are generally charged each way, with a small discount if you book online in advance. Always check your airline’s policy before you book, some are more surfboard-friendly than others.

EasyJet

• Fee: £45/€45 each way online, £55/€55 at the airport

• Allowance: Up to 32kg, max length 275cm (9'0")

• Tip: Pack your clothes in the board bag to save on baggage fees.

Ryanair

• Fee: £40/€40 each way for ‘Sporting Equipment’ online, £45/€45 at the airport

• Large items: £55/€55 online, £65/€65 at the airport

• Allowance: 20kg per item, £12/€12 per extra kg

• Tip: Book under ‘Sporting Equipment’ to save money—then smile sweetly at check-in.

Aer Lingus

• Fee: £40/€40 online, £50/€50 at the airport

• Business Class Bonus: Free surfboard transport!

• Allowance: Up to 23kg, max length 240cm (205cm on regional flights)

• Tip: If you’re booking Business Class, your board flies for free.

Jet2.com

• Fee: £35/€35 online, more at the airport (unclear how much more)

• Allowance: 22kg, no listed max dimensions

• Tip: Call ahead for confirmation—Jet2’s info on surfboards is patchy.

TUI

• Fee: £30/€35 each way

• Booking: Must be done by phone

• Allowance: Up to 400cm (13’0”!)

• Tip: If you ride a longboard, TUI is your best bet.

Loganair

• Fee: £20 each way

• Allowance: Max length 170cm (5’5”)

• Tip: Great for shortboards and grovelers but leave your longboard at home.

Worldwide Airline Surfboard Fees

For those venturing further afield, here are the surfboard policies for major international airlines flying out of the UK.

British Airways (BA)

• Fee: Included in normal baggage allowance

• Allowance: Economy: 1x 23kg bag (surfboard must be <190cm/6’2”)

• Tip: No mid-lengths, step-ups, or longboards—stick to shortboards.

Emirates

• Fee: Included in baggage allowance

• Allowance: 23kg (Piece Concept) or up to 35kg (Weight Concept), max 300cm combined dimensions

• Tip: Their ‘Weight Concept’ is generous—pack smart and save.

Virgin Atlantic

• Fee: Included in normal baggage allowance (or £65/$100 for extra baggage)

• Allowance: Max 190cm/6’2”, up to 23kg

• Tip: If you’re going Economy, pack your board bag wisely or pay extra.

Qantas

• Fee: Included in baggage allowance

• Allowance: Economy: 30kg, Premium Economy: 40kg, max board length 277cm (9’0”)

• Tip: Qantas is the most surf-friendly airline—no extra fees and big board allowances.

Airline Surfboard Fees Comparison

How to Pack Your Surfboard for a Flight

Baggage handlers don’t have the best reputation. Protect your board from dings with these simple steps:

1. Remove Fins & Leash – Fixed fins? Wrap them in foam or cardboard.

2. Double Wrap Rails – Pipe insulation or towels work well.

3. Bubble Wrap & Towels – The more padding, the better.

4. Duct Tape the Bag Shut – Stops zips from bursting open.

5. Wax Off in Hot Climates – Melted wax on clothes isn’t fun.

Bonus Tip: Wack an Airtag/Tile in your baggage. The chances of your bag going missing are slim, but the peace of mind is worth it.

Our Favourite Travel Board Bags

If you're serious about protecting your board, a quality travel bag is essential. Here are some of our top picks:

• Db Travel bags – Ultra-durable and designed for ease of travel. Packs down nicely.

• Ocean & Earth Apex – Ideal for multiple boards and serious protection.

• Ocean & Earth Hypa – Step down in price from the Apex but almost as decent.

How It Works at the Airport

Getting your surfboard onto a plane isn’t as simple as chucking a suitcase on a conveyor belt. Here’s what to expect:

1. Check-In: When you arrive, head to the check-in desk as usual. Let the staff know you’re travelling with a surfboard.

2. Payment & Tags: If your airline charges extra, you’ll need to pay the fee. The staff will tag your surfboard bag for oversized baggage.

3. Oversized Baggage Drop-Off: You’ll be directed to a separate area where larger items are processed. Here, your board will be manually handled instead of going through the usual luggage system.

4. Security & Boarding: Once your board is checked in, you’re free to head through security as normal.

5. Arrival & Collection: When you land, surfboards typically won’t appear on the main baggage carousel. Instead, they’ll be placed in a special oversized baggage area, so don’t panic if it doesn’t turn up straight away!

What to Do If Your Board Gets Damaged

• Check it before leaving baggage claim. If you leave the airport, your claim is basically void.

• Report it immediately. Every airline requires you to make a claim on the spot.

• Know your rights. The Montreal Convention (1999) states airlines must compensate passengers up to £1184.59 for damaged baggage.

Final Tips for Flying with Surfboards

• Always book your board in advance. It’s cheaper and avoids last-minute stress.

• Get written confirmation from the airline. If there’s a dispute, emails are your best weapon.

• Travel insurance is your friend. Airlines might pay for damage, but insurance covers theft and loss.

Wherever you’re off to, travel smart, pack well, and may your board arrive in one piece. Happy surfing!

We love talking surfing, surfboards and everything else related so get in touch if you need a hand via email at [email protected] or call us on 01243 674250

Boardshop makes no guarantees that these fees won’t change overnight. Always double-check with your airline before booking!