KLM Baggage Policy Guide: Allowances, Fees & Sizes

Understanding baggage rules really can make or break a trip. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has been flying since 1919 and carries millions of passengers to more than 160 destinations every year. Still, many travelers run into baggage problems simply because they overlook the rules. That’s why knowing the KLM baggage policy before you fly is so important. Whether you’re heading out on a short European flight or a long international journey, a little preparation helps you pack smart, avoid extra fees, and enjoy the trip without stress. 

To keep things simple, KLM divides baggage into two main types: hand luggage and checked baggage. What you’re allowed to bring depends on your ticket type, travel class, and route. If you’re flying economy, packing carefully is especially important to avoid surprise charges. Let’s go through everything step by step so it’s easy to understand.

Hand Luggage Essentials: What You Can Bring Onboard

Hand luggage is what you keep with you during the flight, so it’s best used for things you’ll need on the way. With KLM, every passenger is allowed a small accessory bag for free. This can be a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, and it must fit under the seat in front of you.

Free accessory bag (all passengers):

• Maximum size: 40 × 30 × 15 cm

• It should fit neatly under the seat in front of you.

Main Hand Luggage Rules by Fare

What you can bring next depends on your ticket type and class.

Economy Class

• Basic ticket: Only the small accessory bag is included

• You can add one main handbag by purchasing it in advance

• Light, Standard, or Flex tickets:

• 1 main handbag allowed

• Maximum size: 55 × 35 × 25 cm (including wheels and handles)

• Total weight of accessory + main bag: up to 12 kg

Premium Comfort Class: Similar hand luggage rules to economy, with the same size and weight limits

Business Class: You are allowed 2 main handbags plus 1 accessory bag, total combined weight of up to 18 kg.

Traveling with Children

• Infants under 2 years: 1 handbag up to 55 × 35 × 25 cm with a maximum weight of 12 kg, and essential food items for the flight are allowed.

• Children with their own seat: Follow the same hand luggage rules as adults.

Liquids and Security Rules

Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less, and fit into one clear, resealable 1-liter plastic bag. These rules follow standard airport security guidelines worldwide.

How Strict Is KLM with Hand Luggage?

KLM usually checks hand luggage size and weight, especially on busy flights. If your bag is too big or too heavy, it may be checked at the gate, and extra fees can apply. Using a lightweight, airline-approved cabin bag makes packing easier and helps you stay within the limits.

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Checked Baggage: Allowances and Limits for Your Hold Luggage

Checked baggage is what goes into the aircraft hold, and KLM keeps the rules fairly clear and practical. Each checked bag must be within the size and weight limits to be accepted.

Size and weight limits

• Maximum size per bag: 158 cm total (length + width + height, including wheels and handles)

• Economy and Premium Comfort: Can check bags up to 23 kg each.

• Business Class: up to 32 kg per bag

Checked Baggage Allowance by Fare:

How many bags you can check depends on the ticket you book.

Economy Class

• Basic and Light fares: No free checked baggage

• For Standard or Flex fares, 1 checked bag is allowed, weighing up to 23 kg.

Premium Comfort Class: 2 checked bags, each up to 23 kg

Business Class: You can check in two bags, with each bag weighing up to 32 kg.

On some long-haul routes, such as certain flights to the United States or Asia, an extra checked bag may be included. Always check your booking details to be sure.

Extra Benefits and Special Cases:

For the KLM Airlines baggage allowance in economy, frequent flyers get added flexibility. Flying Blue members with Silver, Gold, or Platinum status usually receive one extra checked bag. Some SkyTeam partner benefits may also apply.

Families also get helpful allowances:

• Lap infants: 1 checked bag up to 10 kg

• Children traveling with their own seat receive the same baggage allowance as adults.

You can pool checked baggage with others on the same booking, but each bag must still stay within the allowed size and weight. If you’re traveling on KLM international baggage allowance routes, it’s a good idea to double-check your allowance in the “My Trip” section before heading to the airport.

Understanding Fees for Extra, Overweight, or Oversized Baggage

Nobody likes unexpected charges at the airport, so it helps to know how KLM baggage fees work in advance. If you’re carrying more bags than your ticket allows, you’ll need to pay for extra checked baggage. On European flights, this usually costs between €25 and €75, while on intercontinental routes it can range from €30 to €240. The price depends on your route and whether you buy the extra bag online or at the airport; booking in advance is always cheaper.

If your bag is heavier than allowed, extra fees apply too. Bags weighing between 23 kg and 32 kg are considered overweight, and the fee varies by route. Some airports charge a flat rate, while others calculate it per extra kilogram. Bags that are larger than 158 cm in total size (length + width + height) are treated as oversized and come with additional charges. If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you may be charged both fees. Keep in mind, KLM does not accept bags over 32 kg or over 300 cm in total dimensions as regular checked baggage, and anything exceeding these limits must be shipped as cargo.

The easiest way to avoid KLM checked baggage fees is to weigh and measure your bags at home. If you’re close to the limit, moving a few items to your carry-on or shipping them separately can save you money and stress.

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Restricted and Prohibited Items: What Not to Pack

Safety rules are an important part of the KLM baggage policy, so knowing what not to pack can save you time and trouble at the airport. Some items are restricted, while others are fully banned in either hand luggage or checked baggage.

Not allowed in hand luggage:

• Liquids over 100 ml outside the approved liquids bag

• Sharp objects, weapons, or weapon-like items

• Self-balancing devices such as hoverboards

• Lithium battery devices are limited in number and cannot be recharged onboard

Not allowed in checked baggage:

• Spare lithium batteries should be carried in your hand luggage.

• Explosives, flammable liquids, and toxic substances

Firearms for hunting or sport require permits, advance approval, and may involve extra fees on certain routes. Some destination-specific rules apply, such as bans on pagers or walkie-talkies on Dubai flights. Food is usually allowed if packed properly, but always check local import rules to avoid delays or confiscation.

Handling Special Baggage: Sports Gear, Instruments, and More

If you’re traveling with something out of the ordinary, KLM makes it fairly easy as long as you plan ahead. Their baggage policy covers everything from sports equipment to musical instruments and family essentials.

Sports equipment:

Items like golf bags, skis, or fishing gear can usually replace one checked bag at no extra cost. They must stay within the standard limits, up to 23 kg in economy or 32 kg in business, and no more than 300 cm in total size. Bigger items such as bicycles, surfboards, or diving gear need to be booked at least 48 hours in advance and may come with extra fees, depending on your route.

Musical instruments:

Small instruments can be taken as hand luggage if they fit within 55 × 35 × 25 cm and weigh up to 12 kg in economy. Larger instruments can either be checked in or booked on a separate seat (up to 45 kg), but you’ll need to arrange this ahead of time.

Other special items

• Strollers and car seats: Travel free for children and can often be gate-checked

• Pets: Require separate booking and specific travel arrangements

• Wedding dresses: Allowed as hand luggage on intercontinental flights if space is available

• Urns: Permitted if sealed properly and accompanied by the required documents

Overall, KLM offers flexible options for special baggage, making it a good choice whether you’re traveling for sports, music, or a special occasion.

What to Do When Your Baggage Is Delayed or Lost

Even with the best policies, issues happen. If your checked baggage doesn't arrive, report it within 48 hours at the airport desk or online for a property irregularity report with a tracking number. KLM provides updates via its system. For delays, you may claim essentials like clothing. If your bag is lost or damaged, you can file a compensation claim, just make sure to submit it promptly and keep all receipts.

Wrapping Up Your KLM Baggage Journey

Understanding the KLM Airlines baggage allowance helps you travel with confidence and avoid last-minute airport issues. Knowing the KLM baggage allowance economy allows you to pack smart while staying within fare limits. Being aware of the KLM international baggage allowance prepares you for long-haul routes and varying policies. Following the correct KLM hand luggage size ensures smooth boarding without delays. Staying within the KLM checked baggage weight saves time and prevents repacking, while planning for KLM checked baggage fees helps you control costs and enjoy a stress-free journey.

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FAQs About KLM Baggage Policy

Q.1: How much liquid can I take in my checked baggage?

There is no specific liquid limit for checked baggage, as long as items are non-hazardous and packed securely to prevent leaks.

Q.2: What is not allowed in checked baggage for international flights?

Explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and spare lithium batteries are not allowed. Some items may also be restricted by destination country rules.

Q.3: Can I have 2 checked baggage items?

Yes, you can have 2 checked baggage items if your fare type includes them, such as KLM Premium Comfort or Business Class, or if you purchase an extra bag.

Q.4: What happens if your luggage is over 23kg in KLM?

If your bag weighs more than 23kg, KLM charges an overweight baggage fee. Bags over 32kg are not accepted and must be shipped as cargo.

Q.5: What does 2 pieces 23kg mean?

It means you are allowed two checked bags, with each bag weighing up to 23kg individually.