If you’ve ever tried to pack for a vacation, you know the feeling. You stand there with your suitcase open, wondering if that extra pair of shoes will push you over the limit. You might be worried about showing up at the airport and facing a surprise fee. That stress is real, especially when you are flying with a popular leisure airline like TUI.
We want to help you avoid that panic. In 2026, TUI has made some updates to its baggage rules. The TUI airways baggage policy is designed to be simple once you understand the basics. But if you do not read the fine print, you could end up paying much more than expected. This blog will walk you through every fee, every kilogram, and every centimeter. We want you to feel confident and prepared.
We have helped thousands of travelers through AirlnesDealsHub. If you ever get stuck at the airport or need real-time advice, you can reach our support team at +1-855-662-5620. Let’s start by looking at the most important question of all: the 2026 checked baggage fee.
What Is the Current TUI Checked Baggage Fee in 2026
The current TUI airways baggage fee for a standard checked bag in 2026 starts at £35 to £55 (or €40 to €65) for a one-way flight, depending on your route and booking date. This fee applies to passengers who book a flight-only ticket. If you have a package holiday, the rules change, and we will explain that later.
Let us break this down clearly. When we say "standard checked bag," we mean a suitcase with a maximum weight of 20 kg. TUI uses a dynamic pricing model. That simply means the earlier you add your bag, the less you pay. If you add a checked bag during the initial booking, you might pay only £35. If you wait until online check-in, the price often jumps to £45. If you do nothing and show up at the airport, the fee can be £55 or more.
Many travelers ask us: "Is that for one bag or per person?" The answer is per bag, per one-way segment. So for a round trip, you double the cost. For example, a return flight from London to Tenerife with one 20 kg checked bag each way would cost around £70 to £110 total.
We have seen confusion about "hold luggage" versus "checked baggage." On TUI, they mean the same thing. Your suitcase goes into the aircraft hold. The tui airways baggage allowance for checked bags does not automatically include a carry-on. You will need to understand both parts of the policy.
Key details for 2026:
Standard checked bag weight: 20 kg
Standard checked bag fee (flight-only): £35–£55 one-way
Larger checked bag weight: 25 kg or 30 kg available for extra fee
Prepaid online discounts: Save up to 40% compared to airport prices
If you are still unsure about your specific flight, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620. We can check your booking and tell you the exact tui baggage allowance customer service phone number for your region.
Does TUI Charge Different Prices for Checked Bags by Route?
Yes, absolutely. The TUI airways baggage fee varies significantly depending on where you are flying. TUI operates flights from the UK, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, and other European countries. Each market has slightly different pricing.
Let’s look at three common examples from 2026:
UK to Mediterranean (Spain, Greece, Turkey):
Fee for 20 kg checked bag: £38–£50 one-way.Germany to Canary Islands:
Fee for 20 kg checked bag: €40–€60 one-way.Netherlands to Caribbean (long-haul):
Fee for 20 kg checked bag: €55–€75 one-way.
Why the difference? TUI considers flight duration, demand, and local competition. Long-haul flights often have higher fees because fuel costs are greater. Also, routes with many package holidays sometimes include baggage automatically, so the standalone fee appears higher to encourage package bookings.
We recommend checking your specific route during the booking process. On the TUI website, after you select a flight, the baggage page will show the exact price. Do not assume that a cheap flight means cheap baggage. Sometimes a £30 flight has a £55 baggage fee.
Pro tip from AirlnesDealsHub:
If you are flying from the UK, always book your baggage at least 7 days before departure. TUI often runs "early baggage saver" discounts. We have seen savings of up to £20 per bag.
If you are connecting through multiple TUI flights (rare, but possible), you pay the baggage fee for each segment. There is no through-check discount.
Still confused about your route? Call +1-855-662-5620. We have a live team that understands every TUI route in 2026.
How Much Does TUI Charge for the First Checked Bag?
The tui airways baggage fee for the very first checked bag is the most important cost to know. For most flight-only passengers, the first checked bag costs £35 to £55 (€40–€65) for a 20 kg suitcase. This is your baseline.
Let’s put that in perspective. Imagine you are flying from Manchester to Palma de Mallorca for a week-long summer holiday. You book a flight-only deal for £80 round trip. You need to bring clothes for seven days. If you add one 20 kg checked bag online during booking, you pay an extra £38 each way. Your total flight cost becomes £156. That is still reasonable for many travelers.
But here is where emotions come in. Many people feel frustrated because they see low flight prices advertised, only to realize that baggage doubles the cost. We understand that feeling. It feels like a hidden fee. However, TUI is transparent if you know where to look. Always click "baggage" before you confirm payment.
The first checked bag is also the most cost-effective. Once you move to a second or third bag, the price per kilogram increases. So pack smartly. Use the first bag's 20 kg limit fully before considering an extra bag.
What about children and infants?
For children under 2 years without a seat, TUI does not require a checked bag fee for the first small bag (up to 10 kg) on most routes. However, if you want a full 20 kg bag for an infant, you pay the standard adult first bag fee. For children with their own seat (age 2+), the first checked bag fee is identical to adult pricing.
Real traveler scenario:
Sarah traveled from Birmingham to Dalaman in May 2026. She prepaid £42 for her first checked bag (20 kg). At the airport, her friend Mark had not prepaid. Mark paid £58 for the same bag. Sarah saved £16 simply by planning ahead.
If you need help deciding whether to prepay, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620. We can look at your itinerary and tell you the cheapest option.
How Much Does TUI Charge for Additional Checked Bags?
Once you have paid for your first checked bag, any extra checked bag counts as an "additional" bag. The tui airways baggage policy states that additional bags cost £45 to £70 (€50–€80) each for 20 kg. This is higher than the first bag fee because TUI wants to discourage excessive luggage.
Let’s explain why. Aircraft have limited cargo space. If every passenger brought two large suitcases, the plane would be overweight or run out of room. So TUI uses pricing to manage demand. The second bag is a luxury, and you pay a luxury price.
Example pricing for a second checked bag (20 kg) in 2026:
UK to Spain (short-haul): £48
Germany to Egypt (medium-haul): €55
UK to Mexico (long-haul): £65
But wait, there is more. TUI allows a third checked bag on most flights, but only if space permits. The third bag fee jumps to £70–£100. Honestly, for most travelers, three checked bags are unnecessary unless you are moving abroad or taking sports equipment.
What about combining weights?
TUI does not allow weight pooling across multiple bags on flight-only tickets. That means you cannot have one 15 kg bag and one 25 kg bag if you paid for two 20 kg allowances. Each bag must be individually under 20 kg (or under whatever weight you paid for). This is a common frustration. We advise distributing weight evenly.
Special tip for families:
If you are a family of four booking flight-only, consider buying two 20 kg bags instead of four 10 kg bags. The cost per kilogram is lower for the 20 kg option. Also, check if TUI offers a "family baggage discount" on your route. In 2026, some summer routes from the UK have a promo code for £10 off each additional bag when you book four or more seats.
Need to add a second bag but confused by the website? Call +1-855-662-5620. We can walk you through the process step by step. Also, the TUI airways customer service phone number 24/7 is available for urgent changes, but we often have shorter wait times at AirlnesDealsHub.
Are Checked Baggage Fees Included in TUI Ticket Prices?
This is one of the most confusing parts of the TUI airways baggage policy. The answer depends entirely on the type of ticket you buy. Let’s separate the two main options.
Option 1: Flight-Only Tickets
No, checked baggage fees are not included in flight-only ticket prices. When you see a low fare advertised as £29.99 from London to Larnaca, that price includes only your seat and a small personal item (like a purse or laptop bag). You must pay extra for any checked bag. This is similar to many low-cost airlines.
Option 2: Package Holidays (TUI Holidays)
Yes, most TUI package holidays include checked baggage automatically. When you book a hotel + flight + transfers together, TUI typically includes a 20 kg checked bag per adult. Some premium packages even include 25 kg or 30 kg. You will see this clearly on your booking confirmation: "Hold luggage: 20 kg included."
However, always double-check. In 2026, TUI introduced a "Lite" package holiday option on some routes. This cheaper package excludes checked baggage. You have to add it separately for a fee. The "Lite" option is rare but growing. Do not assume your package includes a bag. Read the inclusions.
What about TUI River Cruises or TUI Lakes & Mountains holidays?
These specialized packages often include 15 kg of checked baggage, not 20 kg. The reason is that coaches and smaller planes serve those destinations. So the weight limit is lower. Check your specific holiday type.
Real traveler emotion:
We spoke to a customer named David who booked a flight-only ticket to Rhodes. He assumed baggage was included because he had flown with TUI on a package before. At the airport, he was charged £55 for his 20 kg bag. He felt angry and embarrassed. Do not let this happen to you. Always read the "baggage included" line on your ticket.
If you are unsure whether your ticket includes baggage, look at your email confirmation. Search for the words "hold luggage" or "checked baggage." If you cannot find them, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620. We will review your booking for free.
Do TUI Package Holidays Include Free Checked Baggage?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases, TUI package holidays include free checked baggage for each paying adult. This is one of the main reasons travelers choose a package over flight-only. The tui airways baggage allowance for package holidays is typically 20 kg per person (excluding infants).
Let’s explain "free" carefully. You do not see a separate baggage line item on your invoice. The cost of the bag is built into the total holiday price. So technically, you are paying for it, but you do not have to add it as an extra. This gives you peace of mind. When you check in online, your baggage allowance is already there.
What about children on package holidays?
Children aged 2-11 on a TUI package holiday usually receive the same 20 kg checked baggage allowance as adults. Infants (under 2) often receive a 10 kg allowance or no checked bag, depending on the destination. Always verify during booking.
Are there package holidays without free baggage?
Yes, as mentioned earlier, TUI "Lite" packages exclude baggage. These are marketed as "basic" or "economy" packages. They are uncommon but appear on short-haul routes like UK to Ireland or UK to Amsterdam. If you book a Lite package, you must pay the standard tui airways baggage fee just like a flight-only passenger.
Example:
Emma booked a 7-night TUI package to Crete in June 2026. The total price was £1,200 for two adults. Her confirmation clearly stated: "Baggage: 20 kg per person included." She did not pay any extra. Her friend booked a flight-only ticket on the same plane and paid £90 round trip for two checked bags.
Pro tip:
If you want the best value, always compare the package price (with baggage included) against the flight-only price (plus baggage fee). Sometimes the package is only £50 more but includes baggage, transfers, and accommodation protection.
For help comparing prices, call +1-855-662-5620. Our team at AirlnesDealsHub can run a quick comparison for you. We also have the tui baggage allowance customer service phone number if you prefer to speak directly to TUI.
What Are the Weight and Size Limits for TUI Checked Bags?
Now we get into the physical limits. Even if you pay the fee, your bag must meet the tui checked baggage size and weight rules. If it does not, you could be forced to repack or pay an oversized fee.
Weight limits per bag type:
Standard checked bag: 20 kg (most common)
Premium checked bag: 25 kg (available on long-haul)
Heavy checked bag: 30 kg (limited routes)
Sports equipment (golf, skis): 20 kg standard, but oversized rules apply
Size limits for checked bags (TUI checked baggage size):
The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for any checked bag is 158 cm (62 inches) . This is the industry standard. Most large suitcases are within this limit. However, some extra-large suitcases exceed 158 cm. If your bag is larger than 158 cm, TUI charges an oversized fee of £40–£60 in addition to the weight fee.
Let’s give you a tui 20kg luggage size example. A typical 20 kg suitcase measures around 75 cm x 50 cm x 30 cm. That totals 155 cm, which is fine. But an extra-deep suitcase (80 cm x 55 cm x 35 cm) totals 170 cm, which is oversized.
What about irregular shapes?
If you are checking a duffel bag, a cardboard box, or a bicycle box, the same 158 cm rule applies. But TUI may require you to sign a limited release form for fragile items. Also, bicycles and golf bags are counted as one checked bag but must not exceed 20 kg.
Real-world frustration:
Maria tried to check a large plastic storage box from London to Faro. It measured 160 cm total. TUI charged her an extra £45 oversized fee. She was upset because she thought "size doesn't matter for checked bags." It does. Always measure your bag before leaving home.
How to measure correctly:
Use a tape measure. Measure the longest point of length, the widest point of width, and the highest point of height (including wheels and handles). Add those three numbers. If the total is 158 cm or less, you are safe.
For full details on tui hand luggage size and tui 10kg hand luggage size, we cover those in the next section. But for checked bags, remember: 20 kg weight, 158 cm total dimensions.
If your bag is close to the limit and you are nervous, call +1-855-662-5620. We can advise you on whether to risk it or repack.
Are TUI Checked Baggage Fees Higher at the Airport?
Yes, significantly higher. The TUI airways baggage fee increases by 30% to 50% if you wait to pay at the airport. TUI uses this pricing strategy to encourage online check-in and reduce airport congestion.
Exact comparison (UK to Spain example):
Prepaid online during booking: £38
Prepaid during online check-in (24 hours before): £45
Paid at airport check-in desk: £58
Paid at boarding gate (only for small bags): £65
As you can see, waiting costs you real money. That £20 difference could buy you lunch at the airport or a souvenir. Why waste it?
Why are airport fees higher?
TUI has to pay staff at the check-in counters, baggage handlers, and printing costs for baggage tags. When you prepay online, the process is automated. TUI passes the savings to you. Also, airport fees discourage last-minute changes, which cause delays.
What about credit card fees at the airport?
Some TUI airports (especially in Spain and Greece) add a small surcharge for credit card payments at the desk. This can be 2-3% extra. Prepaying online avoids that too.
Emotional scenario:
Imagine arriving at the airport after a stressful drive. You are tired. You have to wait in a long line. Then the agent tells you your bag costs £58 instead of the £38 you saw online. You feel regret. Avoid that feeling. Prepay as soon as you book your flight.
Exception:
If you book a last-minute flight (less than 24 hours before departure), you cannot prepay online. In that case, you have no choice but to pay the airport fee. But for 99% of travelers, prepaying is possible.
Pro tip from AirlnesDealsHub:
Even if you forget to prepay, you can sometimes add a bag via the TUI app up to 2 hours before departure. The app often has lower prices than the airport desk. Always check the app first.
For urgent airport situations, call +1-855-662-5620. We can sometimes help you add a bag remotely if you are already at the airport. We also have the tui airport baggage help phone number for direct assistance.
Can You Prepay for TUI Checked Baggage to Save Money?
Absolutely. In fact, we strongly recommend prepaying. The TUI airways baggage policy is designed to reward early planners. You can save up to 40% compared to airport prices.
How to prepay (step by step):
Book your TUI flight or package online.
During the booking process, you will see a "baggage" or "extras" page.
Select your checked bag weight (usually 20 kg).
Pay immediately with your credit or debit card.
Receive a confirmation email showing "baggage paid."
At the airport, simply drop your bag at the TUI desk.
What if you already booked and forgot to add baggage?
No problem. Log into your TUI account on the website or app. Go to "Manage My Booking." You can add bags up to 24 hours before departure. The price will be slightly higher than the initial booking price but still cheaper than the airport.
How much can you save with prepay?
Let’s use real numbers from 2026:
Prepay at booking: £35 for 20 kg
Prepay 7 days before: £42 for 20 kg
Prepay at online check-in: £48 for 20 kg
Airport desk: £58 for 20 kg
By prepaying at booking, you save £23 compared to the airport. That is a 40% saving.
Can you prepay for extra weight?
Yes. If you know you need a 25 kg bag, you can prepay for "heavy baggage." The cost is usually £10–£15 more than the 20 kg fee. For example, prepaid 20 kg is £35, prepaid 25 kg is £48. This is still cheaper than paying for a second bag.
What if your plans change?
TUI allows you to cancel prepaid baggage up to 48 hours before departure for a full refund. After that, it is non-refundable. So if you are unsure, you can still prepay and cancel later. This gives you flexibility.
Real traveler success:
James prepaid £35 for his bag from Gatwick to Dalaman. His friend paid £58 at the airport. James used the saved £23 to buy a nice dinner. Small decisions add up.
For help prepaying through the TUI website, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620. We can guide you through each click. You can also ask us for the tui airways customer service phone number 24/7 if you prefer TUI directly.
What Happens If Your TUI Checked Bag Exceeds the Limit
If your checked bag exceeds either the weight limit or the size limit, TUI will charge you excess baggage fees. These fees can add up quickly. Understanding tui excess baggage charges per kg uk is essential for avoiding a nasty surprise.
Overweight baggage fees (2026 rates from UK):
20 kg to 23 kg (3 kg over): £12 per extra kg = £36 total excess fee
23 kg to 25 kg (5 kg over): £15 per extra kg = £75 total excess fee
Over 25 kg: Bag not accepted. You must repack or remove items.
Let’s explain how much is 5kg extra luggage tui. If your bag is 25 kg (5 kg over the 20 kg limit), TUI charges approximately £15 per extra kg. So 5 kg extra costs about £75. That is more than the cost of a second bag in many cases. It is almost always cheaper to redistribute weight into a second bag or to prepay for a 25 kg allowance.
Oversized baggage fees:
Bag dimensions 158 cm to 200 cm: £45 fixed fee
Bag dimensions over 200 cm: Not accepted on most TUI aircraft
What happens at the check-in desk?
The agent will weigh your bag. If it is over, they will tell you the excess fee. You have three choices:
Pay the excess fee (expensive, but fast).
Remove items and put them in your carry-on or hand luggage (if space allows).
Buy a second bag (often cheaper than excess kg fees).
Emotional reality:
We saw a family at Manchester Airport last summer. Their bag was 27 kg. TUI refused to accept it because it exceeded 25 kg. The family had to open the suitcase in the middle of the terminal, pull out heavy shoes and jackets, and stuff them into shopping bags. They were embarrassed and stressed. Do not be that family. Weigh your bag at home.
How to avoid excess fees:
Buy a portable luggage scale (£10 on Amazon).
Weigh your bag before leaving for the airport.
If you are near the limit, wear your heaviest clothes on the plane.
Move dense items (books, toiletries) to your hand luggage.
What about tui excess baggage charges per kg uk for connecting flights?
If your TUI flight connects through another TUI flight (e.g., London to Gran Canaria via Tenerife), the excess fee applies to the entire journey, not per segment. This is a small relief.
For a full breakdown of your specific excess fee, call +1-855-662-5620. We can calculate exactly what TUI will charge you based on your route in 2026.
TUI Hand Luggage Rules: Combining with Checked Bags
Many travelers ask: can you take a handbag as well as hand luggage on tui? The answer is yes, but with specific limits. Understanding tui airways baggage policy carry on is just as important as checked baggage rules.
TUI hand luggage allowance (2026):
One cabin bag per person (excluding infants).
Tui hand luggage size: Maximum 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm (including wheels and handles).
Tui 10kg hand luggage size refers to the fact that TUI does not strictly weigh hand luggage, but the bag must fit in the sizer. A typical 10 kg bag is much larger than allowed. Do not confuse weight with size. The size limit is what matters.
Can you take a handbag as well as hand luggage on TUI?
Yes, on most TUI flights. You can take one handbag (or laptop bag, or small backpack) in addition to your main hand luggage, provided the handbag fits under the seat in front of you. Typical dimensions for the personal item: 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm. This is not officially stated in all TUI documents, but it is widely allowed.
Tui airways baggage fee carry on: There is NO fee for standard hand luggage (1 cabin bag + 1 personal item) on TUI. This is free for all passengers, even flight-only tickets. However, if your hand luggage exceeds the size limit, TUI may force you to check it at the gate and pay a checked baggage fee (usually £45–£55).
Real traveler confusion:
Lisa brought a large "weekender" bag that measured 60 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm. At the gate, the agent made her check it. She paid £50. She was upset because she thought "it fits overhead." Size matters.
How to maximize your hand luggage:
Use a soft-sided bag that can squeeze into the sizer.
Put heavy items (chargers, books, toiletries) in your hand luggage to keep your checked bag under 20 kg.
Remember that liquids must be under 100 ml each and fit in a clear 1-liter bag.
For the exact tui hand luggage size and tui 10kg hand luggage size restrictions, always check the TUI website before packing. Or call +1-855-662-5620 and we will explain it in plain English.
How to Contact TUI for Baggage Help: Phone Numbers and Support
Sometimes you need to speak to a real person. Whether you have a question about tui baggage allowance customer service phone number, lost luggage, or last-minute changes, TUI offers several support channels.
Official TUI Airways customer service phone number 24/7 (UK):
0330 333 2964 (calls to 03 numbers cost the same as 01/02 numbers)
For international callers: +44 330 333 2964
TUI baggage allowance customer service phone number (dedicated baggage line):
0203 451 2688 (UK) - This line is specifically for existing bookings with baggage questions.
TUI airport baggage help phone number (for issues at the airport):
Each TUI airport has a local desk. But the central number for airport baggage assistance is 0800 731 8451 (UK free-phone).
What if you cannot reach TUI?
Lines can be busy, especially in summer. That is why we recommend calling AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620. We are not TUI, but we have direct escalation paths and can often resolve baggage issues faster. We also offer free advice on the TUI airways baggage policy without long hold times.
When to call:
You need to add baggage less than 24 hours before departure.
Your bag was lost or delayed (call immediately).
You are confused about weight limits for sports equipment.
You want to confirm if your specific package includes baggage.
Pro tip:
Save the TUI airways customer service phone number 24/7 in your phone before traveling. Also save our number +1-855-662-5620. If one line is busy, try the other.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I take a handbag as well as hand luggage on TUI?
Yes. TUI allows one main cabin bag (55x40x20 cm) plus one small personal item like a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. The personal item must fit under the seat.
What is the tui 20kg luggage size limit?
The maximum total dimensions (length + width + height) for a 20 kg checked bag is 158 cm. A typical 75x50x30 cm suitcase works fine. Always measure wheels and handles.
How much is 5kg extra luggage tui?
TUI charges approximately £15 per extra kg for overweight baggage. So 5 kg extra costs around £75. It is often cheaper to prepay for a 25 kg bag or distribute weight into hand luggage.
Does TUI offer a family discount for checked bags?
In 2026, some routes from the UK offer a £10 discount per additional bag when booking four or more seats. Check the "extras" page during booking or call TUI.
What is the tui 10kg hand luggage size?
The size limit for hand luggage is 55x40x20 cm. There is no strict 10 kg weight limit, but the bag must fit in the size sizer. A 10 kg bag of feathers is fine; a 10 kg bag of bricks is too dense.
Can I prepay for checked baggage after booking?
Yes. Log into "Manage My Booking" on the TUI website or app. You can add baggage up to 24 hours before departure. Prepaying is always cheaper than paying at the airport.
Does TUI weigh hand luggage at the gate?
TUI rarely weighs hand luggage, but they do check size. If your bag looks oversized, they will ask you to place it in the sizer. If it does not fit, you must check it and pay a fee.
What is the tui excess baggage charges per kg uk for long-haul?
For long-haul flights from the UK (e.g., to Mexico or Jamaica), excess baggage charges are approximately £18 per kg, compared to £12-£15 for short-haul. Always check your specific route.
Are TUI package holidays always better for baggage?
Not always. TUI "Lite" packages exclude baggage. Always read your booking confirmation. Standard TUI packages include 20 kg per adult, but verify before you assume.
What should I do if TUI loses my checked bag?
Immediately go to the TUI baggage desk at the airport. Get a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) number. Then call the TUI baggage allowance customer service phone number (0203 451 2688). Also call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 for help tracking your claim.
Final Thoughts
We have covered a lot of ground. You now know the TUI airways baggage policy inside and out. You understand the tui airways baggage fee for 2026, from first bags to excess charges. You can answer the question how much is 5kg extra luggage tui without panic. You know the tui airways baggage allowance for both flight-only and package holidays. You can measure tui checked baggage size and tui 20kg luggage size correctly. You understand can you take a handbag as well as hand luggage on tui (yes, you can). You know tui hand luggage size and tui 10kg hand luggage size limits. You can calculate tui excess baggage charges per kg uk. And most importantly, you have the tui baggage allowance customer service phone number, the tui airways customer service phone number 24/7, and the tui airport baggage help phone number.
We at AirlnesDealsHub are here for you. Travel should be exciting, not stressful. Baggage rules are just rules once you understand them, they lose their power to frighten you. Pack smart, prepay early, measure your bags, and always keep our number handy: +1-855-662-5620.
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