Complete Guide to GOL Baggage Policy and Other Rules

Thinking about flying in Brazil or maybe somewhere else in Latin America? GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes is a big airline there, known for being modern and efficient. They connect all across Brazil and offer flights to cool international spots too. Whether you’re headed to big cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, or enjoying the beaches of the Caribbean and visiting the USA, GOL is a popular choice for many travelers.

What makes GOL stand out? It’s a smart mix of being affordable, convenient, and offering decent service for a budget airline. GOL is especially good at reaching everywhere in Brazil, making it easy to explore the country’s diverse regions. You’ll fly on newer Boeing 737 planes, and their fare system is pretty straightforward. Plus, their Smiles loyalty program can earn you great rewards. GOL finds a nice middle ground, offering good prices without sacrificing too much comfort, which works for both vacationers and people traveling for work.

This guide is here to help you with everything you need to know about flying with GOL. We’ll cover their rules so you’re prepared. We’ll look at checked baggage, extra fees, carry-on limits, and what food to expect. We’ll also talk about their policy for pets, what happens if you need to cancel, special help services, and some general tips to make your trip go as smoothly as possible.

GOL Checked Baggage Policy

Understanding airline luggage rules can be a bit tricky. Knowing GOL’s policy, especially the GOL baggage dimensions, is the first step to a stress-free check-in.

Piece Concept

GOL uses what’s called the “piece concept”. This just means your allowed luggage is based on the number of bags you can check, and each bag has size and weight limits. What you get depends on the fare you bought: Light, Plus, Max, or Premium Economy. The Light fare is the most basic and doesn’t include any free checked bags, so you only pay if you need to check something. On the other hand, Plus, Max, and Premium Economy fares come with one or more checked bags included. This system gives you flexibility, so you’re not paying for something you won’t use.

The table shows what you typically get with each GOL fare on domestic and international flights. Always check your ticket because sometimes the allowance can change with specific routes or if GOL partners with other airlines.

Important: The standard size for any checked bag is a total of 158 cm (62.2 inches) when you add length, width, and height. If a single bag weighs more than 23 kg (50 lbs), you’ll pay an extra fee for overweight baggage, even if it’s within your allowed number of bags.

GOL Prohibited Items in Checked Baggage

For everyone’s safety, GOL, like other airlines, doesn’t allow certain items in checked bags. Bringing these can lead to your items being taken away and possibly penalties. Pack smart and leave these at home.

• Explosives and Flammable Items: Think dynamite, fireworks, ammunition, or anything that could explode or easily catch fire.
• Compressed Gases: Things like pepper spray, large gas canisters, or fire extinguishers are a no-go.
• Flammable Liquids and Solids: Fuel, lighter fluid, paints, or certain glues can’t go in your checked luggage.
• Oxidizing Substances: Bleach and some chemicals fall into this category.
• Toxic and Infectious Substances: Poisons, pesticides, or anything with live viruses are forbidden.
• Radioactive Materials: Anything that gives off radiation.
• Corrosives: Acids, mercury, and some batteries are not allowed.
• E-cigarettes and Vaping Devices: These, along with extra batteries, must be in your carry-on bag because of fire risk. I actually forgot this myself once, nearly had my vape taken away.

GOL Extra Baggage Fee

Need to bring more than your fare allows? GOL lets you buy extra baggage. The cost for this depends on where you’re flying (domestic or international), when you pay for it (before or at the airport), and how many extra bags you need. Buying your extra baggage ahead of time on GOL’s website or app is always cheaper. Airport prices are significantly higher.

If you have the Light fare, you’ll need to buy your first checked bag. For Plus, Max, or Premium Economy fares, these fees apply to bags beyond what’s included. Here are some estimated costs. Prices can change, so always check the GOL website for your specific flight.

For Domestic Flights within Brazil:

• 1st Bag (for Light Fare): About R$95 in advance, R$140 at the airport.
• 2nd Bag: About R$129 in advance, R$160 at the airport.
• 3rd to 5th Bag (each): About R$180 in advance, R$250 at the airport.

For International Flights (like to South America, the Caribbean, or the USA):

• 1st Bag (for Light Fare): Varies by route, from about R$149 to USD $45 in advance, R$199 to USD $60 at the airport.
• 2nd Bag: Varies by route, from about R$199 to USD $65 in advance, R$249 to USD $85 at the airport.
• 3rd to 5th Bag (each): Varies by route, from about R$380 to USD $150 in advance, R$550 to USD $200 at the airport.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees:

If your bag is too heavy or too big, you’ll pay extra fees on top of any extra bag charges.

• Overweight Baggage: For bags between 23 kg (50 lbs) and 32 kg (70 lbs), the fee is about R$149 on domestic flights and R$200 to USD $100 on international flights. Bags over 32 kg are usually not accepted. Some international flights might require bags over 45 kg to be sent as cargo.
• Oversized Baggage: For bags bigger than 158 cm (62.2 in), the fee is about R$149 (domestic) or R$200 / USD $100 (international).

GOL Carry-On Baggage Policy

Everyone flying with GOL gets to bring a carry-on bag for free, no matter your fare. This includes one larger bag for the overhead bin and one smaller personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. Stick to these limits for an easy boarding process.

GOL Carry-On Baggage Additions

Besides your main carry-on and personal item, GOL lets you bring a few more things without counting them towards your allowance. This is handy for keeping essentials close.

• A coat, jacket, or blanket.
• An umbrella or walking stick (as long as it’s not sharp).
• A small camera and/or binoculars.
• Reading material for the flight.
• A small bag of duty-free items bought at the airport.
• For flights with infants: an infant bassinet or car seat, and a diaper bag.
• Mobility aids like crutches or walkers.

GOL Carry-On Baggage Restrictions

To meet security rules, some items are limited in your carry-on bag. The most common is the GOL liquid allowance, which follows the “3-1-1 rule” for Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs).

• Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels: All liquids must be in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less. Put all these containers in one clear, resealable plastic bag that holds up to 1 liter. You need to show this bag separately at security. This applies to drinks, creams, perfumes, sprays, gels, and toothpaste. Baby food, breast milk, and prescription medicines are usually exceptions, but you might need to show proof.
• Sharp Objects: Things that could be used as weapons are not allowed. This means knives, box cutters, razor blades (unless in a cartridge), scissors over 6 cm, and metal nail files.
• Sporting Goods: Items like bats, clubs, or sticks must go in checked baggage.
• Self-Defense Items: Pepper spray or tasers are not allowed on your person or in your carry-on.
• Tools: Most tools need to be placed in checked baggage.
• Lithium Batteries: Extra lithium batteries must be in your carry-on bag and protected from short circuits. E-cigarettes also need to be in your carry-on.

GOL Food Policy

GOL is a bit of a hybrid airline, offering a mix of budget-friendly and comfortable in-flight service. Whether you get free food depends on the flight. On all domestic flights in Brazil, you get complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. This is nice, as many budget airlines don’t offer this. The snack is usually something like chips, cookies, or a bar, along with water, juice, or soda.

International flights have a bit more. On international flights within South America and to the Caribbean, you’ll likely get a more substantial meal, like a sandwich or a small hot dish, plus more drink options, possibly including beer and wine. On longer international flights, like to the United States, you’ll get a full, complimentary hot meal. This includes a main course, salad, bread, dessert, and drink service throughout the flight.

If you want more choices, GOL has a menu you can buy from on many flights. You can get premium snacks, sandwiches, and alcoholic drinks. Prices are pretty reasonable – snacks are around R$10-R$20, and sandwiches are R$25-R$35.

When it comes to special dietary needs, GOL’s options are a bit limited compared to full-service airlines. On flights with hot meals (mostly long international routes), you can request special meals like vegetarian or gluten-free. You must request these through GOL’s customer service at least 72 hours before your flight. For domestic flights with only snacks, special meals aren’t usually available. If you have severe allergies or specific needs, it’s best to bring your own food.

GOL Pet Policy

GOL welcomes small dogs and cats to fly with you. You can bring your pet either in the cabin or in the hold (cargo area). Which option you use depends on the combined weight of your pet and its carrier.

You need to book pet travel in advance by calling GOL, as there are limits on how many animals can be on a flight. The fee is paid at the airport during check-in.

Dog&Cat in the Cabin (In-Cabin Transport):

This is for pets that, with their carrier, weigh 10 kg (22 lbs) or less.

• Cost: About R$250 for domestic flights, and varies internationally (like USD $150 to the US).
• Carrier Size Limits: Carriers can be soft or hard. A hard carrier shouldn’t be bigger than 22 x 43 x 32 cm (height x length x width). A soft carrier can be up to 24 x 43 x 32 cm. It must be well-ventilated, secure, and fit under the seat.
• Pet Requirements: Only one pet per passenger is allowed, and it must be at least 4 months old. The pet has to stay in its carrier the whole flight.

Dog&Cat in the Hold (Checked Baggage Transport):

For pets weighing between 10 kg and 30 kg (22 to 66 lbs), including the carrier, they travel in the hold.

• Cost: About R$850 for domestic flights, and varies internationally (like USD $400 to the US).
• Carrier Requirements: The carrier must be an IATA-approved crate with a metal door, good ventilation, and enough space for the animal to stand and turn around. The maximum size is 82 x 114 x 82 cm (height x length x width).
• Registration: Book this service early because space is limited.

Required Documents:

Proper paperwork is essential.

• For Domestic Flights: A health certificate from a vet, issued within 10 days of flying, saying the pet is healthy. A rabies vaccination record is also needed.
• For International Flights: Rules are stricter and depend on the destination. You’ll usually need an International Veterinary Certificate (CVI) or an EU Pet Passport. Many places also require microchips and specific treatments. You are responsible for knowing and meeting all import requirements for your destination.

Other GOL Services & Policies

GOL Cancellation Policy

GOL’s rules for canceling or changing flights depend a lot on the fare you bought. Knowing these rules before booking can save you money.

• Light Fare: This is the most restrictive. Cancellations are usually not refundable. If you cancel, you lose the whole ticket cost. You can change flights, but there’s a high fee plus any difference in ticket price.
• Plus Fare: This fare is more flexible. If you cancel, you get a credit for the ticket value, minus a cancellation fee. This credit can be used for future GOL flights. The cancellation fee is lower than changing a Light fare ticket. You can also change flights for a fee (plus fare difference).
• Max Fare: This is the most flexible option. Cancellations are fully refundable with a small processing fee if you cancel before the flight. Changes are also allowed with no change fee, though you’ll pay if the new flight is more expensive. This fare gives you the most peace of mind.
• 24-Hour Rule: If you buy your ticket directly from GOL and your flight is more than 7 days away, Brazilian law lets you cancel for a full refund within 24 hours of buying the ticket.

Refunds usually go back to how you paid. Travel credits are good for one year.

GOL Wheelchair Assistance

GOL wants everyone to travel safely and comfortably, including those with reduced mobility. They offer wheelchair help for free, but you must request it ahead of time.

• Requesting Assistance: Ask for wheelchair help when you book or by calling GOL at least 48 hours before domestic flights and 72 hours before international flights. This makes sure they have staff and equipment ready.
• Types of Assistance: GOL provides different help based on your needs:
  • WCHR: For people who can walk short distances but need a wheelchair for longer ones to/from the gate.
  • WCHS: For people who can walk short distances but can’t use stairs.
  • WCHC: For people who can’t move on their own and need help from the airport entrance to their seat.
• Traveling with a Personal Wheelchair: You can bring your own wheelchair. Manual ones are usually checked at the gate and given back at the plane door. Electric wheelchairs have special handling depending on the battery type. You must tell GOL about the battery when you request assistance. Transporting your own wheelchair is free.

Tips for Passengers

For the most up-to-date information for your flight, always check the official GOL Linhas Aéreas website. Airline policies, baggage fees, and schedules can change, and their website is the best place for current info. It’s a good idea to double-check your baggage allowance and any travel advisories a few days before your trip to avoid surprises. The website is also where you can manage your booking, check in online, and buy extras like more baggage at the best price.

When you get to your destination, the last thing you want is to be stuck with your luggage before you can check into your hotel. That’s where a luggage storage service like Qeepl can be a lifesaver. They have safe places to store your bags in hotels, shops, and cafes. You book online, drop off your luggage, and then you’re free to explore without being weighed down.

To make your GOL trip even better, try these travel tricks. Always check in online or using the GOL app to save time at the airport and pick your seat. If you’re checking bags, weigh them at home to make sure they’re under the 23 kg limit to avoid costly overweight fees. Pack a portable power bank, as not all planes have charging ports. And if you fly in Brazil often, join the Smiles loyalty program to earn miles for future flights and upgrades. It really adds up.