Lufthansa Baggage Rules: Tips for Avoiding Excess Charges

When preparing for a flight, understanding the baggage rules of your airline is essential to avoid unexpected fees and stress at the airport. Lufthansa, one of Europe’s leading airlines, has clear baggage policies, but if you’re not careful, excess charges can quickly add up. Whether you’re flying long-haul or short-haul, in Economy or First Class, knowing how to navigate Lufthansa checked baggage policy can help you pack smartly and avoid unnecessary costs.

In this blog, we’ll break down Lufthansa’s baggage rules, highlight the most common causes of excess charges, and share practical tips to help you stay within your baggage limits without breaking the bank.

1. Understanding Lufthansa’s Baggage Allowance

Before diving into ways to avoid excess baggage charges, it’s important to know what you’re allowed to bring. Lufthansa’s baggage allowance varies depending on your class of service, route, and fare type. Here's a quick overview of the baggage allowance by cabin class:

Economy Class

Long-Haul Flights: One checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

Short-Haul Flights: Typically one checked bag, though some fare types (like Light fares) may not include checked baggage.

Premium Economy Class

2 checked bags up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each.

Business Class

2 checked bags up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each.

First Class

3 checked bags up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each.

Carry-On Allowance (For All Classes)

1 carry-on bag up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs).

1 personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag) is also allowed.

Knowing your specific baggage allowance is crucial to avoid exceeding the limits. Always check your booking details to confirm the baggage allowance for your flight.

2. Common Causes of Excess Charges

Excess baggage charges typically occur when your luggage exceeds the weight, size, or quantity limits set by the airline. Here are the most common causes of excess baggage charges with Lufthansa:

Exceeding the Weight Limit

Checked Baggage: If your checked luggage exceeds the weight limit for your class, you will incur excess baggage fees. For example, Economy Class passengers are allowed 1 bag up to 23 kg, but if your bag weighs 24 kg (53 lbs) or more, you’ll pay extra.

Carry-On Baggage: If your carry-on bag weighs more than the 8 kg limit, you may be required to check it in at the gate and pay excess baggage fees.

Exceeding the Size Limit

Lufthansa sets a maximum size for checked bags. The combined dimensions (length + width + height) of your checked luggage should not exceed 158 cm (62 inches). If your bag exceeds this limit, you may face an oversized baggage charge, which is generally much higher than standard excess baggage fees.

Bringing Extra Bags

If you bring more bags than your free allowance permits, you will be charged for each additional piece of luggage. For instance, Economy passengers are typically allowed 1 checked bag, and any additional bags may cost €50 to €200 depending on the route.

3. Tips for Avoiding Excess Baggage Charges

Now that you know the common pitfalls, here are several smart strategies for avoiding excess baggage charges when flying with Lufthansa:

1. Pack Efficiently and Lightly

The easiest way to avoid excess baggage fees is to pack only what you need. Consider packing versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and choose lightweight fabrics to keep your luggage weight down. Use compression bags to maximize space and reduce the overall size of your bags.

Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes is a great way to save space and minimize wrinkles.

Wear Bulky Items: If you’re carrying bulky items like jackets or shoes, wear them during your flight to free up space in your luggage.

2. Weigh Your Luggage Before You Go

One of the best ways to avoid unexpected fees is to weigh your luggage before heading to the airport. Many airports offer public weighing scales, or you can invest in a portable luggage scale to check your bags at home. This way, you’ll know if you need to lighten your load before check-in.

If your bag is close to the weight limit, consider transferring some items into your carry-on or into a second checked bag, if allowed.

3. Avoid Over-Packing for Carry-On

Your carry-on bag is also subject to weight limits. Even if you think it’s light, be sure to check it before heading to the airport. If you’re unsure, leave heavier items at home or in your checked luggage.

Remember that laptops, tablets, and cameras are typically heavier than they look, so be mindful when packing your carry-on.

If your carry-on bag is too heavy, you may be asked to check it in, and excess baggage fees could apply.

4. Pre-Purchase Extra Baggage

If you know you’ll need more baggage than your free allowance, it’s cheaper to pre-purchase extra baggage in advance rather than paying for it at the airport. Lufthansa allows you to buy additional baggage space during booking or when checking in online.

Booking extra baggage online can save you up to 50% compared to airport prices, especially for additional checked bags.

You can add extra luggage as early as 48 hours before your flight, so make sure to plan ahead if you think you’ll need more space.

5. Consider Upgrading Your Class

If you frequently travel with heavy or multiple bags, it may be worth considering an upgrade to a higher class of service. Business and First Class travelers get more generous baggage allowances, which could save you money in the long run, especially on long-haul flights.

For example, Business Class passengers are allowed 2 bags of up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each, compared to just 1 bag for Economy travelers.

6. Know the Special Baggage Rules for Sports Equipment and Other Large Items

If you’re traveling with oversized or special items like sports equipment (e.g., skis, golf clubs, bicycles), musical instruments, or baby strollers, make sure to check Lufthansa’s guidelines for these items. Special items are often subject to extra fees, but they can usually be arranged in advance for better rates.

Bicycles, for example, typically incur fees ranging from €100 to €200, depending on the route. Check Lufthansa’s website or call their customer service in advance to arrange these items properly.

7. Use the Personal Item Allowance

In addition to your carry-on, you’re allowed to bring one personal item such as a backpack, purse, or small laptop bag. Take full advantage of this by storing any essential items that don’t need to go in your carry-on or checked luggage. This will free up space and ensure your carry-on stays within weight limits.

Store items like documents, medication, electronics, and valuables in your personal item, so you don’t exceed the weight limit of your carry-on.

4. What to Do if Your Baggage Exceeds the Limits

If you arrive at the airport and find that your luggage exceeds the allowed weight or size limits, don’t panic. Here are a few last-minute tips to help minimize excess charges:

Repack at the Airport: Many airports provide designated spaces for passengers to repack their luggage. If you have an extra heavy item in your checked bag, transfer it to your carry-on or redistribute the weight between your bags.

Pay for Extra Baggage: If you’re unable to avoid the excess charges, you can pay the fee at the check-in counter or online. It’s often cheaper to buy additional baggage online before arriving at the airport.

Final Thoughts

Navigating Lufthansa’s baggage rules doesn’t have to be a headache, as long as you plan ahead and pack wisely. By following these tips and familiarizing yourself with the baggage allowances, you can avoid the common pitfalls that lead to excess baggage fees. Remember to weigh your luggage in advance, consider upgrading your ticket for extra baggage allowances, and take advantage of online baggage purchases to save money. With the right preparation, you can focus on enjoying your journey instead of worrying about baggage charges. Safe travels!