KLM hand luggage allowance: Your complete guide

Here’s everything you need to know about KLM's hand luggage allowance.

Flying with KLM? Avoid extra fees the next time you fly with the Dutch airline by understanding its hand luggage rules. Here we’ll cover both size and weight limits. And we’ve got some tips for maximising your allowance too.

Understanding KLM's cabin baggage allowance

Size, weight, and fees explained

When you fly with KLM, the airline’s hand luggage policy allows for one carry-on bag and one personal item. Your carry-on must not exceed 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.5 x 13.5 x 10 in) and weigh no more than 12kg (26.5 lbs). Your personal item could be a laptop bag, handbag or shopping bag for example, and must not exceed 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 in). Going over these limits could result in checked baggage fees.

A bag on the floor with legs and feet stood up next to it
Top tip

- Roll your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles.

- Use travel-sized toiletries to minimise bulk.

- Wear your heaviest items of clothing on the flight.

KLM hand luggage allowance at a glance


Quick overview of KLM's cabin baggage policy

The below table details KLM’s cabin baggage policy including size and weight restrictions, as well as any potential fees.

KLM cabin luggage size

Number of bags allowed onboard

KLM cabin luggage weight allowance

KLM cabin luggage weight allowance

Hand luggage bag:

55 x 35 x 25cm maximum cabin baggage dimensions (including handles and wheels)

Economy: One hand luggage bag and one small bag per passenger

12kg maximum combined weight for Economy and Premium Comfort Class

Free if your cabin bag meets KLM regulations and flight is full

Small bag:

40 x 30 x 15cm maximum size for additional small bag e.g. handbag or laptop bag

Premium Comfort Class: Two hand luggage bags and one small bag per passenger

18kg maximum combined weight for Business

Overweight and excess hand luggage charges range from €75 and €300 per item depending on where you’re flying to

Things to know before you fly with KLM

What you can and can’t pack in your hand luggage

Someone holding a clear bag at security with make up in it

KLM generally adheres to the above guidelines for cabin luggage. But it’s always helpful to double-check the specific requirements for your route and ticket type directly on the KLM website. Be prepared for potential variations due to different types of aircraft or full flights.


If you’re bringing liquids and gels in your hand luggage, remember to use containers no larger than 100ml, placed within a single, transparent, resealable bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre. You can bring more than 100ml of essential medication in your cabin bag, but you’ll likely need a note from your doctor or a copy of your prescription.


Sharp objects, weapons, and other prohibited items are not permitted in hand luggage.

FAQs about KLM hand luggage

Yes, you can bring duty-free purchases on board your KLM flight in addition to your hand luggage, as long as they are sealed in a security tamper-evident bag. Also, double-check the duty-free restrictions at your destination.

As KLM staff have discretion, you might find that they let you off paying any fees if your bag is slightly overweight. But this isn’t always the case, and you shouldn’t rely on it. It’s best to stay within the hand luggage allowance to avoid any potential fees.

Yes, your handbag or laptop bag falls under the personal item allowance. You’re allowed to bring a personal item on a KLM flight alongside your cabin bag.

Yes, you can bring a backpack as your personal item on KLM flights, as long as it fits within the personal item dimensions.

If the overhead bins are full by the time you get on the flight, KLM may check your carry-on bag at the gate, free of charge. Just make sure you take out any essential items that you’ll need on the flight before your bag goes into the hold.

Yes, generally you can bring food in your hand luggage. Just make sure you check restrictions on certain items before you travel to the airport. You’re fine to bring food on board that you bought in the airport terminal.

Now you know all about KLM’s hand luggage allowance, it’s time to book your trip! Skyscanner offers the best KLM flight deals, so you can be confident you’re getting the most competitive price.

Thinking of travelling soon? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.

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