Flying Lufthansa? Then, knowing the Lufthansa Airlines baggage policy is a must. Whether you are going on a business trip or traveling abroad on a vacation, you should know the maximum luggage you can carry and how much it will cost you to avoid incurring last-minute expenses and delays.
This guide provides complete, clear information on Lufthansa’s baggage rules for carry-ons, checked bags, international travel, and overweight or extra luggage. Let’s unpack everything you need to know.
What Is the Lufthansa Airlines Baggage Policy?
The baggage policy of Lufthansa Airlines follows a “piece concept,” meaning baggage allowance is determined by how many pieces of luggage you can carry rather than by total weight alone. However, size and weight restrictions still apply to each item.
The policy differs by:
- Class of travel (Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First)
- Route type (domestic vs. international)
- Frequent flyer status
Understanding your allowance before you travel is essential to avoid surprises.
Carry-On Baggage: What You’re Allowed
Every Lufthansa passenger is allowed to bring at least one carry-on bag, with the number increasing based on ticket class.
In Economy and Premium Economy, you are permitted one carry-on item. In Business and First Class, you are allowed two carry-on bags.
Each carry-on item must:
- Not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm in dimensions
- Weigh no more than 8 kg (approximately 17.6 lbs)
You’re also allowed one small personal item such as a laptop bag, briefcase, or handbag, free of charge.
For example, if you’re flying Economy Class from Boston to Frankfurt, you may carry one cabin bag and one personal item. However, if you’re flying Business Class on the same route, you can take two cabin bags and your item, giving you more flexibility.
Make sure your bags meet the size and weight limits, as oversized carry-ons may be checked at the gate and incur fees.
Checked Baggage: Lufthansa’s Step-by-Step Rules
When it comes to checked luggage, Lufthansa bases its rules on ticket class.
- When you are traveling Economy Class, you are normally allowed to take one piece of luggage not exceeding 23 kg (50 lbs).
- In the Premium Economy, the allowance is two bags, each 23 kg.
- Business Class customers can take two pieces of checked luggage, but they can be no heavier than 32 kg (70 lbs).
- First Class travelers enjoy the most generous allowance—three checked bags, each also weighing up to 32 kg.
- All checked luggage must adhere to a maximum linear dimension of 158 cm (height + width + depth).
Be mindful that exceeding weight or size limits will result in extra charges. The fee for an overweight bag (between 24–32 kg in Economy) on long-haul flights can cost between $100 and $150 USD, depending on your destination.
Baggage Policy for Lufthansa Airlines International Routes
When traveling internationally, especially between the U.S. and Europe, Lufthansa generally provides the standard allowances based on your class of service. However, international flights often involve higher fees for extra or overweight luggage.
For instance, if you’re flying from Los Angeles to Berlin in Economy Class and your checked bag weighs 26 kg instead of 23 kg, you could be charged around $100 USD for exceeding the weight limit. Bringing a second checked bag on this route may cost between $100–$120 USD, depending on how and when you pay.
If you know you’ll need more luggage, consider booking extra baggage online in advance—it’s often cheaper than paying at the airport.
Need to Carry More? Here’s How
In case there is a necessity to carry luggage beyond the optimum allowance, Lufthansa has offers to accommodate:
- Buy the extra checked baggage on the internet at reduced prices
- Pay an upgraded fee to jump to Premium Economy or Business Class to have a greater number of bags allowed
- Pre-register bulky sports equipment (ski, golf bag, or bicycles)
Excess baggage depends on the route and the weight of the baggage. Fees on add-on bags vary between 90-150 USD, depending on the size, weight, and airport destination.
To take an instance, carrying extra baggage in Chicago to Zurich would cost more than the second bag in a short local flight in Germany.
Special Items & Sports Equipment
Lufthansa permits special baggage such as musical instruments, baby strollers, and sports equipment, but you’ll need to inform the airline in advance.
Sports equipment fees depend on the item and route. For example:
- Golf bags or surfboards may be carried free of charge on some fares
- Bicycles or large ski bags typically require an extra fee and pre-approval
If you’re traveling with a musical instrument, it can be brought on board if it fits in the overhead compartment. Larger instruments may require purchasing a separate seat.
Lost or Delayed Baggage: What to Do
Lufthansa is considered a dependable airline, although sometimes, the bags might get delayed or lost. In case it occurs:
- On arrival, report at the Lufthansa service counter as soon as possible
- Follow your luggage online via the Lufthansa Baggage Status Tool
- Keep every document, such as the boarding pass and baggage note
Should there be a delay in delivery, Lufthansa can compensate you for the necessary items bought during the wait. Make sure that you retain receipts and file a claim within a specified time frame.
Packing Tips to Avoid Surprises
There are some easy tricks that smart travelers can use to prevent paying Extra fees:
- Check the weights of your bags at home so that they fit into the limits
- Carry light luggage to be able to pack as much as you can
- Pre-book excess baggage at a reduced price online
- Pack your bags with the labels on the outside and inside so that you can identify them more easily
Conclusion: Mastering the Lufthansa Airlines Baggage Policy
The Lufthansa Airlines baggage policy is structured, but it’s crucial to review the details based on your fare type and destination. Knowing how many bags you can bring, the size and weight limits, and how to avoid overweight or extra bag fees can make your trip smoother.
Whether you’re flying within Europe or embarking on a long-haul journey to Asia or the U.S., understanding the rules helps you pack smarter and save money.
Still have questions? Reach out to Tours N Travel Pro at +1-844-622-0310 for trusted travel tips and support.
