KLM has a comprehensive hand luggage policy to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for its passengers. While most are obvious, some may be unknown to many, especially first-time travellers. You should familiarise yourself with the requirements to avoid checking a bag or paying extra fees. In our guide below, we help you understand everything you need to know.
What is the hand luggage size and weight policy for KLM?
The KLM hand luggage policy may differ depending on your travel class or cabin:
- Economy Class: 1 cabin bag and 1 accessory (such as a laptop bag, briefcase, or a small handbag).
- Premium Comfort Class and Business Class: 2 cabin bags and 1 accessory.
The KLM hand luggage size restrictions are the same in all travel classes.
| Cabin bag | Personal item | |
|---|---|---|
| Max dimensions | 55 x 35 x 25 cm | 40 x 30 x 15 cm |
| Max weight | *12 kg in Economy and Premium Comfort 18 kg in Business Class *combined weight of cabin bag and personal item | *12 kg in Economy and Premium Comfort 18 kg in Business Class *combined weight of cabin bag and personal item |
KLM’s carry-on weight limit differs depending on your travel class. The combined weight of your cabin bag and accessory or personal item shouldn’t exceed 12 kg if you’re flying Economy Class or Premium Comfort Class. Business Class travellers enjoy a slightly higher limit of up to 18 kg.
KAYAK’s Bag Measurement tool can help you know the dimensions of your bag before getting to the airport. The tool is easy to use, and you can download the app on your phone to check your bag’s dimensions before your trip.
What is the cabin bag liquid policy?
Passengers are allowed to carry shampoos, gels, creams, pastes, and other liquids each in a container not exceeding 100 ml. They should all be packed in one transparent and sealed plastic bag with a maximum volume of up to 1 litre. Additional items should be kept in your checked baggage.
You can bring the following liquids on board with no restrictions:
- Infant food to be consumed during the journey
- Medication to be taken onboard. It should be backed by a doctor’s prescription statement
- Food intended for specific dietary needs to be consumed during the journey
- Sealed duty-free items
Travelling with infants and carry-on rules for KLM
The number of hand luggage items you can bring for your child will differ if they don’t have their own seat. If you’re travelling with an infant (below 2 years old) on your lap, you can bring an extra carry-on bag weighing up to 12 kg with a maximum size of 55 x 35 x 25 cm.
You can also bring a folding stroller/buggy with a maximum size of 15 x 30 x 100 cm. The stroller can be checked free of charge if it does not fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat. If you reserve a seat for your child, you can bring a car seat, inflight bed, or leg-rest extensions. For car seats, you’ll have to contact the airline at least 48 hours before departure because of limited seating options.
What extra items can you bring on board?
Additional items you can bring onboard KLM flights include:
- Some sports equipment of up to 300cm (L+W+H) and not exceeding 23 kg in Economy Class and Premium Comfort Class or 32 kg in Business Class.
- A musical instrument provided it meets the hand luggage size and weight requirements. You can reserve an extra seat for your instrument if it weighs up to 45 kg.
- A collapsible or foldable wheelchair that meets the carry-on size and weight requirements when folded. You should make a reservation when booking or contact the airline at least 48 hours before departure.
- Walking stick of crutches. They should be placed in the overhead compartment.
- Wedding dress.
- Urn as long as it’s not made of metal. It should be sealed.
Tips for maximising KLM’s hand luggage allowance
To get the most out of the KLM hand luggage allowance, you should:
- Wear bulky items: If you have a heavy jacket or shoes, wear them instead of packing them.
- Pack light: Pack essential items only and utilise space-saving techniques like folding.
- Choose the right cabin bag: Look for a lightweight and compact bag.
- Weigh your bag before leaving for the airport: You can utilise your weighing scale to know the weight of your bag before leaving for the airport
KLM hand luggage size FAQ
KLM is generally not that strict with its carry-on policy. However, if you bring a bag that violates the airline’s policy and get caught, you might face different penalties depending on your route.
The KLM cabin bag weight limit is 12 kg for Economy Class and Premium Comfort Class or 18 kg for Business Class.
You can bring 2 bags as hand luggage on KLM if you’re flying Premium Comfort Class. Each should have dimensions of up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm, including handles and wheels, and weigh up to 18 kg.
Yes. KLM allows travellers to bring 1 item of hand baggage and 1 accessory such as a handbag, laptop bag, or even backpack not exceeding 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
Disclaimer: Information is correct as of 07.11.2023 and may vary with time.
