Flying somewhere with Lufthansa this year? Don’t worry, packing for your getaway is easy once you know what you can bring for free and what you must pay for. Let’s break it down so there are no surprises at the airport.
What You Can Bring for Free
You automatically receive a free baggage allowance when you book your Lufthansa flight. The amount depends on the ticket you bought and your travel class.
Free Carry-On Baggage
When you fly with Lufthansa, you can bring a small bag on board the plane. This bag is called carry-on baggage. It stays with you all the time, and you put it either in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you.
But carry-on bags have rules! You can’t just bring any bag. It must fit in a box of a specific size and can’t be too heavy.
Here’s what Lufthansa allows:
| Class | How Many Carry-On Bags | Weight Limit Each | Size Limit Each |
| Economy | 1 bag | 8kg | 55 x 40 x 23 cm |
| Premium Economy | 1 bag | 8kg | 55 x 40 x 23 cm |
| Business Class | 2 bags | 8kg each | 55 x 40 x 23 cm |
| First Class | 2 bags | 8kg each | 55 x 40 x 23 cm |
You also have the option to bring a foldable garment bag instead of a regular bag. This is for carrying formal clothes, such as suits and dresses. It may vary slightly in size: 57 cm x 54 cm x 15 cm.
Very Important
If your carry-on is too large or heavy, Lufthansa will take it away at the gate and charge you an additional fee. Charges at the gate are more expensive than if you paid earlier. Pack your phone, medications, wallet, and chargers in your carry-on luggage. Never check them.
Free Checked Baggage
Depending on your ticket, you may check in big suitcases for free.
Here’s what you get with Lufthansa
| Class | How Many Free Checked Bags | Max Weight per Bag | Max Size per Bag |
| Economy Light | 0 bags | – | – |
| Economy Classic/Flex | 1 bag | 23 kg | 158 cm total |
| Premium Economy | 2 bags | 23 kg each | 158 cm total each |
| Business Class | 2 bags | 32 kg each | 158 cm total each |
| First Class | 3 bags | 32 kg each | 158 cm total each |
Reminder
158 cm total = Height + Width + Depth added together.
Free Baby and Child Allowances
Travelling with a baby (0 – 2 years)? Lufthansa gives you some extra free baggage:
- One free checked bag (up to 23 kg and 158 cm total).
- One free foldable stroller or baby carrier.
You don’t have to cram baby stuff into your luggage. Lufthansa gives babies their own baggage space.
What You’ll Need to Pay For
Now, let’s discuss when Lufthansa will charge you extra.
Extra Baggage Fees
- You’ll be charged an additional fee if you bring more bags than the allowed limit.
- Additionally, if your bag exceeds the allowed weight, you’ll be charged an additional fee.
- You’ll be charged an additional fee if your bag exceeds the allowed size.
Important Tip
Always check your exact baggage limits using Lufthansa’s online baggage calculator. Prices are based on your departure location.
Oversized or Overweight Carry-On
If your carry-on bag:
- Weighs more than 8 kg
- Is bigger than 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Lufthansa will take it at the gate and charge a high fee to put it into the cargo hold.
Important
The gate fees are much higher than regular check-in fees. You can only pay them with a credit card.
Economy Light Fare Limitations
If you bought the Economy Light fare (the cheapest ticket), you only get:
- One free carry-on bag (8 kg max).
- No free checked bag.
If you want to check a suitcase, then you must pay to add checked baggage. You can buy up to 2 bags (each bag up to 23 kg).
Special Charges for Sports Equipment
On Economy Light fare:
- Sports gear (such as skis, golf bags, and snowboards) is rarely free.
- You must book and pay separately for sports baggage.
Other ticket types might include some sports equipment for free, but only sometimes. Always double-check when booking.
Extra Facts About Lufthansa Baggage Rules You Should Know
Sometimes small details make a big difference when it comes to travel. Here are some additional facts about Lufthansa’s baggage rules that many people may not know.
Gate Collection Rules
Even if your carry-on bag meets size and weight rules, Lufthansa might still collect it at the gate on full flights. This is because there might not be enough room in the overhead lockers. You usually won’t be charged extra if they take your compliant bag, but you must keep valuables.
Batteries and Electronics
Devices containing lithium batteries, such as phones, tablets, laptops, power banks, and e-cigarettes, must be kept in carry-on luggage. For safety reasons, they are not allowed in checked baggage.
Bag Labelling Rules
Lufthansa recommends including your full name and a mobile phone number inside every bag. This way, if your bag gets lost, it’s easier for them to find and return it to you.
Musical Instruments
Small ones can sometimes be carried as a second piece of hand baggage in the cabin if you want to bring a musical instrument. But large instruments like guitars may need to be checked in or even have their seat booked. Always ask Lufthansa in advance.
Foldable Strollers and Wheelchairs
Foldable strollers and wheelchairs are usually transported for free. Parents flying with babies or travellers needing mobility help don’t have to pay extra for these items.
Packing Tips to Save Money and Stress
Travelling can be exciting, but packing incorrectly can make your trip messy. Here’s how to pack like a pro and avoid extra baggage fees.
Choose the Right Bag
Pick a suitcase that is lightweight even when empty. Some bags are already heavy even when empty. A lighter bag gives you more space for your stuff without crossing weight limits.
Measure and Weigh Before You Leave
Use a measuring tape to check the size of your bag, and use a small luggage scale to check the weight. Do this at home. It’s better to repack calmly at home than to struggle at the airport counter.
Pack Only What You Need
Don’t pack extra clothes “just in case.” Choose clothes that you can mix and match. Pick shoes carefully because they are heavy. Also, remember that most hotels offer laundry services if needed.
Use Travel-Size Toiletries
Big bottles of shampoo or lotion add weight fast. Use travel-size toiletries or buy them at your destination. Some hotels even offer free shampoo and soap!
Keep Valuables and Important Things in Your Carry-On
Always keep your passport, tickets, medications, charger, phone, and wallet in your carry-on bag. Checked bags can sometimes get delayed or lost, so keep important stuff close to you.
Prepay for Extra Bags if Needed
If you already know your bag is a little big or have an extra bag, pay online before your flight. It’s way cheaper than paying at the airport.
Conclusion
Packing for your Lufthansa flight doesn’t have to be confusing. Understanding what is free and what costs extra can help you plan better and save money.
Start by checking what your ticket type includes. Economy Light travellers get only a carry-on for free. Other Economy fares, Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class travellers get carry-on and checked baggage allowances.
Check the size and weight of your bag before leaving for the airport. Carry your valuables in your carry-on. Don’t put electronics, medicines, or essential documents in your luggage.
Finally, if you need more baggage space, book and pay online. It’s cheaper and faster than paying at the airport at the last minute. If you liked this guide, let us know in the comments below. Travel Backpack will be back with more updates!
FAQs
Can I bring a stroller or baby carrier for free if I am travelling with a baby?
Yes! Lufthansa allows one free foldable stroller or one baby carrier per child, in addition to your other baggage allowances.
How can I save money if I have extra luggage?
You can save by prepaying for extra baggage online before your flight. Paying at the airport is much more expensive than paying in advance through Lufthansa’s website or app.
Does Lufthansa allow me to bring sports equipment for free?
Only if you travel on certain fares, such as Economy Classic or higher, and the equipment meets standard baggage rules. Otherwise, sports equipment, such as skis, golf bags, and snowboards, must be booked separately and paid for.
What if Lufthansa runs out of overhead locker space?
If the overhead lockers are full, Lufthansa may collect compliant carry-on bags at the gate at no additional charge. However, you must first remove valuables and electronics.
What happens if my checked bag is overweight by just 1 or 2 kilograms?
Even if your bag is overweight by just 1 kg, Lufthansa may charge you the full overweight baggage fee. They do not allow “small exceptions” at check-in counters.
If I upgrade my Lufthansa ticket later, will my baggage allowance also increase automatically?
Yes. Suppose you upgrade from Economy to Premium Economy or Business Class after booking. In that case, your baggage allowance will be adjusted to match the new class benefits, including increased checked baggage and carry-on allowance.
Does Lufthansa offer free checked baggage when connecting flights with partner airlines?
This applies only if your journey is booked using one Lufthansa ticket number. If you book separate tickets for connecting flights with partners, such as United or Swiss, baggage rules may differ, and additional fees may apply.
Can I check in an empty suitcase without paying extra fees?
It doesn’t matter if the bag is empty or full; Lufthansa checks the size, weight, and number of bags, not their contents.
If Lufthansa loses my baggage, do they reimburse me for emergency purchases?
Yes. If your checked baggage is delayed, Lufthansa will reimburse you for essential items, such as toiletries and basic clothing, provided you keep receipts and submit a claim within the specified timeframe.
