Packing for a trip is stressful enough. The last thing you want is a surprise fee at the airport because you didn't know the rules in advance.
If you're flying with Lufthansa, understanding their baggage policy before you get to the check-in counter can save you real money — and a lot of frustration.
Lufthansa checked baggage rules vary depending on your ticket class, route, and how early you add a bag to your booking. Knowing the difference ahead of time is everything. If you're unsure about anything, you can reach Lufthansa's support line at +1-(866)-673-8391 before your travel date.
This guide breaks down everything — fees, allowances, extra bag costs, and how to add luggage to your ticket — so you're fully prepared before you fly.
Understanding Lufthansa's Checked Baggage Policy
Lufthansa doesn't have a one-size-fits-all baggage policy. What you're allowed to bring depends on the fare class you've booked and the route you're flying.
Here's the general breakdown by cabin class:
Economy Class
- Light fare: No checked baggage included
- Classic fare: 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
- Flex fare: 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
Premium Economy
- 2 bags, each up to 23 kg
Business Class
- 2 bags, each up to 32 kg
First Class
- 3 bags, each up to 32 kg
One thing many passengers overlook is the "Light" fare in Economy. It's the cheapest ticket option but comes with zero checked baggage. If you book it and then show up with a suitcase, you'll pay significantly more at the airport than if you had added a bag online in advance.
Always double-check what fare type you've purchased. It's right there in your booking confirmation.
How Much Is Checked Baggage on Lufthansa?
This is probably the most common question travelers ask — and the answer isn't a flat number. How much is checked baggage on Lufthansa depends on several factors: the route, when you add the bag, and your fare class.
That said, here's a general picture of what you can expect:
Short-haul European routes: Adding one checked bag typically costs between €20–€35 if done online ahead of time. At the airport, that price can jump to €60 or more.
Long-haul / intercontinental routes: For flights from North America or other long-haul destinations, checked bags are often included in Classic and Flex fares. If you're on a Light fare, adding one bag can cost between $50–$100 USD depending on the route and timing.
The golden rule here: add your bag early. Lufthansa charges significantly more for bags added at the airport compared to bags added during or after booking online.
If you're not sure how much is checked baggage for your specific Lufthansa flight, call +1-(866)-673-8391 and a representative can look up your booking and give you an exact quote.
How Much Does Lufthansa Charge for an Extra Checked Bag?
So you've already got one bag included — but you need to bring a second one. How much is an extra checked bag on Lufthansa?
Again, this varies. But here's a general idea:
- On European short-haul flights, a second bag can cost anywhere from €35–€60 added online, and more at the airport.
- On intercontinental flights, how much is an extra checked baggage on Lufthansa typically runs between $100–$200 USD for a second bag, depending on the route and how far in advance you purchase it.
A few key things that affect the extra bag fee:
- Route length — Longer flights generally have higher fees for extra bags
- Booking timing — Adding it during initial booking is cheapest; airport check-in is most expensive
- Frequent flyer status — Miles & More members and Star Alliance status holders may get additional allowances
- Codeshare flights — If your Lufthansa ticket is operated by a partner airline, that airline's baggage fees may apply instead
It's worth checking your booking confirmation carefully to see which airline actually operates your flight.
How to Add Checked Baggage on Lufthansa
One of the easiest ways to save money is to add your bag before you get to the airport. Here's how to do it:
Option 1: During Booking When purchasing your ticket on the Lufthansa website, you'll be prompted to add baggage during checkout. This is typically the cheapest option.
Option 2: After Booking (Manage My Booking)
- Go to Lufthansa.com
- Click "My Bookings" or "Manage Booking"
- Enter your booking reference and last name
- Navigate to the baggage section
- Select and pay for additional bags
Option 3: During Online Check-In Lufthansa opens online check-in 23 hours before departure. You can still add bags here, though prices may be slightly higher than at booking.
Option 4: At the Airport This is the most expensive route. Airport bag fees are noticeably higher than online prices, so avoid this option if at all possible.
Option 5: Call Lufthansa Support If you're having trouble navigating the website or your booking is through a third-party travel agent, calling +1-(866)-673-8391 is often the easiest route. They can add the bag to your booking and confirm pricing right away.
Lufthansa Baggage Size and Weight Rules
Price is important, but you also need to make sure your bag actually meets Lufthansa's size and weight requirements before you get to the airport.
Standard Weight Limit:
- Economy and Premium Economy: 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag
- Business and First Class: 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag
Maximum Dimensions: The total dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag should not exceed 158 cm (62 inches). This applies across all classes.
Overweight Bag Fees: If your bag exceeds the weight limit for your class, you'll be charged an overweight fee:
- Bags between 23–32 kg (in Economy): Additional fee applies
- Bags over 32 kg: Generally not accepted as standard checked baggage — must be shipped as cargo
Oversized Bag Fees: Bags larger than 158 cm in total dimensions are considered oversized and will incur additional charges.
Tips to avoid overweight/oversized fees:
- Weigh your bag at home before leaving
- Use a soft-sided bag that can compress slightly
- Distribute heavy items like shoes and books between your checked and carry-on bags
- Wear heavier clothing on the plane
Lufthansa Checked Baggage Rules for Special Items
Not everything fits neatly into a suitcase. Here's how Lufthansa handles some common special items:
Sports Equipment Items like skis, golf bags, surfboards, and bicycles are accepted but are subject to specific packing requirements and fees. These don't typically count as your standard checked bag.
Musical Instruments Smaller instruments can sometimes be carried on board. Larger instruments that need to be checked are subject to oversized baggage fees.
Strollers and Car Seats These are generally accepted free of charge as checked items for passengers traveling with infants. Rules can vary, so confirm with Lufthansa directly.
Medical Equipment Certain medical devices like CPAP machines or mobility aids may be transported free of additional charge. Always contact Lufthansa ahead of time to confirm requirements.
For any special baggage situation, it's a good idea to call +1-(866)-673-8391 before your trip to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Miles & More Members and Baggage Allowances
If you're a Lufthansa Miles & More member or hold status with a Star Alliance partner airline, your baggage allowance may be higher than what your ticket fare includes.
Here's a general overview:
- HON Circle members: May receive up to 4 extra bags
- Senator card holders: Generally get 1 extra bag across most routes
- Frequent Traveller: Extra bag allowance applies on many routes
- Star Alliance Gold members: Receive extra checked bag allowance on Lufthansa flights
These benefits can add real value, especially on long-haul routes. If you're unsure whether your status qualifies for extra baggage, check the Miles & More website or contact support.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make With Lufthansa Baggage
After years of flying, certain mistakes come up again and again. Here are the most common ones — and how to avoid them:
- Booking a Light fare without realizing it includes no checked bag — then paying expensive airport fees
- Assuming the same baggage rules apply for codeshare flights — always check who operates your flight
- Not weighing bags at home — showing up with a 27 kg bag on an Economy ticket leads to unexpected fees
- Waiting until airport check-in to add a bag — this is always the most expensive option
- Not reading the fare conditions at booking — baggage details are listed there, take 2 minutes to check
- Assuming status benefits apply automatically on partner airlines — they don't always transfer
These are avoidable mistakes. A little preparation goes a long way.
Lufthansa Baggage Fees: What You Pay If You Wait
Let's talk real numbers. The difference between adding a bag online vs. at the airport is not small.
On a typical transatlantic route, here's what the difference can look like:
- Add 1 bag during booking: ~$60–$80 USD
- Add 1 bag online after booking: ~$80–$100 USD
- Add 1 bag at the airport: ~$150–$200+ USD
That's potentially $100+ in savings just for handling it ahead of time.
For European short-haul:
- Add 1 bag online: ~€25–€35
- At the airport: €50–€70+
The message is clear: add your bags early. Whether you do it online or by calling +1-(866)-673-8391, doing it before you reach the airport will almost always save you money.
How Lufthansa Handles Delayed or Damaged Checked Baggage
No one wants to deal with this — but it happens. Here's what to do if your Lufthansa checked baggage is delayed, damaged, or lost:
If your bag doesn't arrive:
- Report it immediately at the Lufthansa baggage service counter before leaving the airport
- You'll receive a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) — keep this reference number
- Lufthansa will typically deliver your bag to your address once located
If your bag is damaged:
- Report it at the airport before leaving, or within 7 days for damage discovered later
- Keep receipts for any essential purchases made due to the delay
- Lufthansa may reimburse reasonable expenses for delayed bags
How to track your bag: Lufthansa provides a baggage tracing tool on their website. You'll need your PIR number and last name to check the status.
Prompt reporting is key. The sooner you file, the faster the process moves.
Tips for Traveling Smart With Lufthansa Checked Baggage
A few practical tips to make the whole process smoother:
- Take a photo of your bag before checking it in — helpful if it gets lost or damaged
- Attach a luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address
- Use a distinctive luggage strap or tag color — makes your bag easy to spot on the carousel
- Remove old airline tags from previous trips to avoid routing confusion
- Pack essentials in your carry-on — medications, one change of clothes, charger — in case of delays
- Don't pack valuables in checked bags — laptops, jewelry, and documents should always travel in your carry-on
- Check in online early — it gives you time to add bags at a lower cost if you haven't already
Final Thoughts: Know Before You Go
Lufthansa is a solid airline with a clear baggage policy — but that policy only works in your favor if you understand it before you travel.
How much is Lufthansa checked baggage? It depends on your route, fare type, and timing. But one thing is consistent: being informed and acting early always saves you money and stress.
Whether you're trying to figure out how to add checked baggage on Lufthansa, wondering how much is an extra checked bag for your specific flight, or dealing with a damaged bag situation, don't guess.
If you're unsure of anything at all, call +1-(866)-673-8391. Lufthansa's support team can pull up your booking, confirm your allowances, and help you add bags at the best available price.
Travel smart. Pack smart. And know your baggage rights before you leave home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much is checked baggage on Lufthansa for Economy class?
It depends on your fare type and route. Economy Light fares include no checked bags. Classic and Flex fares typically include one 23 kg bag. For long-haul routes, adding a bag online costs roughly $60–$100. For accurate pricing on your booking, call +1-(866)-673-8391.
Q2. How do I add checked baggage to my Lufthansa booking?
You can add checked baggage through Lufthansa's "Manage My Booking" section on their website, during online check-in, or by calling +1-(866)-673-8391. Adding bags during or right after initial booking is almost always the cheapest option available to you.
Q3. How much does Lufthansa charge for an extra checked bag?
How much is an extra checked baggage on Lufthansa varies by route. For intercontinental flights, expect roughly $100–$200 USD for a second bag added online. European short-haul routes are typically €35–€60. Airport fees are significantly higher. Call +1-(866)-673-8391 for route-specific pricing.
Q4. What is the weight limit for Lufthansa checked baggage?
Economy and Premium Economy passengers are allowed bags up to 23 kg (50 lbs). Business and First Class passengers can check bags up to 32 kg (70 lbs). Bags exceeding these limits incur overweight fees. To confirm your specific limits, contact Lufthansa at +1-(866)-673-8391.
Q5. Does Lufthansa include free checked baggage on all tickets?
No. The Economy Light fare does not include any free checked baggage. Only Classic, Flex, and higher cabin fares include checked baggage. Always review your fare conditions at the time of booking to avoid unexpected airport fees on your Lufthansa checked baggage.
Q6. What happens if my checked bag is overweight on Lufthansa?
If your Lufthansa checked baggage exceeds the allowed weight, an overweight fee will be charged at check-in. Fees vary by route and degree of excess weight. To avoid this, weigh your bags before leaving home. If you have questions about overweight charges, call +1-(866)-673-8391 for assistance.
Q7. Can I get a refund if I added a checked bag but don't use it?
Baggage fees are generally non-refundable, but policies can vary depending on your fare type and how far in advance you cancel or modify your booking. It's best to confirm the refund terms directly with Lufthansa support at +1-(866)-673-8391 before making changes to your baggage selection.
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