In this guide, I detail Lufthansa’s baggage allowance, covering hand luggage size and weight limits for different fare classes. I also explain rules regarding contents and liquids. Additionally, discover top product recommendations fitting Lufthansa’s specs and find answers to common questions about their baggage policy.
Who’s behind these travel insights?
I’m Sebastian, your luggage expert since 2017. I help you choose the perfect travel gear and navigate baggage rules with ease.
Lufthansa Hand Luggage
The amount of luggage you can bring on your flight depends on the fare you’ve booked:
Economy Class (Light, Classic, Flex, Premium)
Business Class & First Class
Economy Class (Light, Classic, Flex, Premium)
With Lufthansa, across all Economy fares, you’re permitted to bring either one large piece of hand luggage up to 55x40x23 cm weighing no more than 8 kg, or a foldable garment bag measuring 57x54x15 cm.
Additionally, you can bring a small piece of hand luggage up to 40x30x10 cm with no weight limit, which must be stowed under the seat in front of you.
Business Class & First Class
If you’re flying with Lufthansa in Business or First Class, you’re allowed to bring two large pieces of hand luggage, each up to 55x40x23 cm and weighing 8 kg. Alternatively, instead of one piece of hand luggage, you can opt for a foldable garment bag measuring 57x54x15 cm.
In addition, you’re allowed a small piece of hand luggage up to 40x30x10 cm with no weight restriction, which must fit under the seat in front of you.
All details are given without warranty.
Lufthansa Small Cabin Bag 40x30x10
Recommendations for the underseat bag
At Lufthansa, the 40Ă—30Ă—10 cm format refers to a small personal item that must be placed under the seat. This is typically a handbag or a small backpack. A few models match these dimensions exactly, allowing you to make full use of the permitted volume. Here are my recommendations:
Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Lufthansa Large Cabin Bag 55x40x23
Recommendations for the perfect carry-on suitcase
I recommend a carry-on suitcase with dimensions of 55x40x20 cm. This size is accepted on board with nearly all airlines (provided that a large cabin bag is included in your fare).
🏆 Since 2016, I’ve been testing carry-on suitcases and have compiled a top picks list. All models in size S are suitable for Lufthansa.
Lufthansa Cabin Luggage – What’s Allowed Inside?
Heed these hand luggage restrictions
Unsure about prohibited items in Lufthansa hand luggage? All airlines, Lufthansa included, ban items that are considered dangerous or could be used as weapons.
However, there are instances where it’s unclear if an item qualifies as dangerous. In such scenarios, the decision lies with the airport security staff. Here’s a preliminary rundown of such items:
A detailed list with explanations and graphics can be found in this post:
Liquids in Lufthansa Hand Luggage
What is allowed?
At most british and international airports, liquids in hand luggage are currently limited by the 100ml rule, requiring them in containers no larger than 100ml within a transparent, 1-litre bag. By June 2024, the UK plans to abolish this rule, with London City, Teeside International, and Jersey airports already allowing up to 2-litre containers.
However, as many international airports haven’t yet upgraded to the necessary technology, the 100ml rule will also remain vital for future travel outside the UK. Here’s a brief overview of the 100ml rule:
- Only containers with a maximum capacity of 100ml are allowed.
- All containers must be packed in a transparent, resealable 1-litre plastic bag.
- The plastic bag must be fully sealed.
- Each passenger is allowed only one bag.
- The number of containers is not limited as long as the total volume does not exceed 1 litre.
To adhere to the 100ml rule as effectively as possible, consider purchasing dedicated toiletry bags for your liquids. Bags that come equipped with bottles are particularly useful for decanting personal care products.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Clear Toiletry Bag 20x20 cm | £4.88 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
MOCOCITO Toiletry Bag with 8 Bottles | £9.98 £9.48 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Frequently Asked Questions
About Lufthansa hand luggage
How strict is Lufthansa with hand luggage?
Lufthansa’s strictness on hand luggage can vary and depends on factors such as location, staff, flight occupancy, and available time. It’s wise to always adhere to the permitted dimensions and weight to avoid extra charges for checking in your bag.
What happens if hand luggage is too big?
With Lufthansa, even if your hand luggage is just a bit too big, you might have to check it in at an additional cost. Leniency depends on the staff and can vary. Therefore, I advise you to always stick to the allowed dimensions. A slight excess in size is usually not a problem and not every bag is measured. However, it’s hard to predict the action in your specific case as it is an individual decision. You must weigh up whether you want to take this risk.
How is the hand luggage size checked?
Typically, the size and weight of hand luggage are checked at the airline’s check-in counter, often using a metal frame (baggage sizer) to ensure compliance with the specified dimensions. However, not every piece of luggage undergoes exact scrutiny; staff judgement often plays a part. Additionally, checks may occur during boarding or upon entering the aircraft, with the specific procedure varying depending on the airport and personnel involved.
Does hand luggage size include wheels?
Hand luggage dimensions always include wheels and handles.
Can I take a handbag as well as hand luggage on a Lufthansa flight?
With Lufthansa, in all fares, you can bring an additional small piece of hand luggage (max. 40x30x10 cm) on board in addition to the large hand luggage (max. 55x40x23 cm). This could be a handbag or a backpack. There is no weight limit for this personal item.
Where should hand luggage be stored?
The large hand luggage piece up to 55x40x23 cm must be stowed in the overhead lockers. The small personal item up to 40x30x10 cm (e.g., laptop bag or handbag) should be placed under the seat in front of you. Coats and jackets have special hooks on the seat in front of you. Be aware: On busy flights, you may be required to check your hand luggage at the gate before boarding.
