LOT Polish Airlines Baggage Allowance (2026 Update)

Flying with Poland’s flag carrier soon? 

Whether you’re hopping between European cities on an Embraer or crossing the Atlantic on a Dreamliner, understanding LOT Polish Airlines’ baggage policy is crucial to starting your trip stress-free.

LOT is known for being strictly professional, and that extends to their baggage rules. A few centimeters or kilograms over the limit can lead to hefty gate fees.

Quick Policy Overview (2026)

Before you pack, check your ticket type. The “Economy Saver” fare is popular for its low price but strictly excludes checked bags. Here is a snapshot of the standard allowances:

Cabin Class	Carry-On Allowance	Personal Item	Checked Baggage
Economy Saver	1 bag (8 kg / 17.6 lbs)	Yes (2 kg / 4.4 lbs)	None (Purchasable)
Economy Standard	1 bag (8 kg / 17.6 lbs)	Yes (2 kg / 4.4 lbs)	1 bag (23 kg / 50 lbs)
Premium Economy	1 bag* (8 kg / 17.6 lbs)	Yes (2 kg / 4.4 lbs)	2 bags (23 kg / 50 lbs each)
Business Class	2 bags (9 kg / 19.8 lbs each)	Yes (2 kg / 4.4 lbs)	3 bags** (32 kg / 70 lbs each)

Note: On intercontinental flights (e.g., USA, China), Premium Economy passengers get 2 carry-on bags (max 12kg total).

Business Class checked allowance varies slightly by route (2 vs. 3 bags).

LOT Carry-On Baggage Rules

LOT is relatively generous with carry-on counts for premium cabins but strict on weight for Economy.

The Main Carry-On Bag

Your main carry-on suitcase or backpack must fit in the overhead bin.

• Dimensions: Max 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 9 inches).
• Weight: Strictly 8 kg (17.6 lbs) for Economy.
• Business Class: You get 2 bags, each weighing up to 9 kg.

Pro Tip: LOT staff often weigh bags at the check-in counter and occasionally at the gate. If you are flying Economy with a heavy hard-shell suitcase, weigh it at home. 

The bag itself can weigh 3-4 kg, leaving you very little room for clothes.

The “Personal Item”

Every passenger (except infants without a seat) is allowed one extra personal item free of charge. This must fit under the seat in front of you.

• Dimensions: Max 40 x 35 x 12 cm (15.7 x 13.7 x 4.7 inches).
• Weight: Max 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
• Examples: Laptop bag, small backpack, purse, camera bag, or fanny pack.

Exceptions and Extras

In addition to the above, you are permitted to carry:

• Assistive devices (crutches, canes, wheelchair—checked at the gate).
• Medical equipment (e.g., CPAP machine, though notification is recommended).
• Duty-free shopping bags purchased at the airport.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Your checked bag allowance depends entirely on your route (Domestic/Europe vs. Intercontinental) and your class.

Domestic & European Flights

• Economy Saver: 0 bags.
• Economy Standard/Flex: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
• Business Class: 2 bags up to 32 kg each.

Long-Haul Intercontinental (e.g., USA, Canada, Japan)

• Economy Saver: 0 bags.
• Economy Standard: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
• Premium Economy: 2 bags up to 23 kg each.
• Business Class: 3 bags up to 32 kg each.

Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of any checked bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches).

Miles & More Status Perks

If you hold status with Star Alliance, you get extra allowances:

• Senator / HON Circle / Star Alliance Gold: 1 extra bag free of charge (weight depends on travel class).
• Frequent Traveller (Silver): Unfortunately, there is generally no extra baggage benefit for Silver status on LOT, except on specific fare conditions.

Excess Baggage Fees (Overweight & Oversize)

If your bag is heavier or larger than the standard limits, you will pay a penalty. These fees are cumulative, if a bag is both overweight and oversized, you pay both fees.

Note: Prices are approximate and vary based on the exchange rate and route.

• Overweight (23kg to 32kg):
  • Domestic/Europe: Approx. €45 – €75 per bag.
  • Intercontinental: Approx. €115 ($125) per bag.
• Oversized (Over 158 cm):
  • Domestic/Europe: Approx. €75 – €100.
  • Intercontinental: Approx. €145 ($155).

Important: LOT will not accept any single bag weighing more than 32 kg (70 lbs) due to health and safety regulations for baggage handlers. These must be shipped as cargo.

Special Items: Sports & Music

Sports Equipment

LOT has a specific policy for sports gear (skis, golf clubs, surfboards, bicycles).

• Free: You can swap your standard checked bag for sports equipment if it fits within the weight limit (23 kg).
• Paid: If you have already used your baggage allowance, or if you are on a Saver fare, you must pay a fixed fee.
  • Bicycles: Always incur a fee (approx €60-€100 depending on route).
  • Weapons/Firearms: Strictly regulated and incur a mandatory fee plus handling charges.

Musical Instruments

• Small instruments (Violin/Ukulele): Can be your carry-on luggage if they fit the 55 x 40 x 23 cm dimensions.
• Medium instruments (Guitar/Cello): If it exceeds carry-on size, you have two choices: check it into the hold (hard case required) or purchase an “Extra Seat” (CBBG) to keep it in the cabin with you.
• Large instruments (Double Bass): Must be checked or shipped as cargo.

Traveling with Children and Infants

LOT is family-friendly regarding baggage:

• Infants (under 2, on lap): Allowed 1 checked bag (max 23 kg) + a collapsible stroller (checked at gate). Note: On Economy Saver, infants do NOT get the checked bag, only the stroller.
• Children (2-12): Same baggage allowance as an adult.
• Strollers: Transportation of a stroller or car seat is free for all children up to 12 years old.

5 Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees on LOT

Buy “Extra Bags” Online

If you know you need more luggage, buy it via the “Manage My Booking” tab on the LOT website at least 12 hours before flight time. You can save up to 20% compared to airport prices.

Weigh Your Carry-On

LOT’s 8 kg limit is tighter than many US carriers. Use a handheld luggage scale before you leave home.

Wear Your Heavy Clothes

If you are over the 8 kg limit, wear your heaviest coat and boots onto the plane.

Utilize the Personal Item

Maximize that 2 kg laptop bag allowance for chargers, books, and heavy electronics to lighten your main carry-on.

Check Partner Rules

 If your flight is a codeshare (e.g., booked via United but flown by LOT), the baggage rules of the marketing carrier usually apply, but LOT’s carry-on size limits will still be enforced at the gate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LOT strict about carry-on size?

Yes. Especially at their hub in Warsaw (WAW), gate agents frequently check bag sizes. If your bag doesn’t fit the sizer, you will be forced to gate-check it for a high fee.

Does a laptop bag count as my carry-on?

No, a laptop bag counts as your “Personal Item” (max 2 kg). You can bring this plus your main carry-on suitcase.

How much is an extra bag on LOT?

If you purchase it online beforehand, an extra 23kg bag typically costs between €60 and €100 depending on the route (e.g., Warsaw to New York). Airport prices are significantly higher.

Can I bring a backpack instead of a suitcase?

Yes, as long as it fits the 55 x 40 x 23 cm dimensions. Hiking backpacks that are taller than 55cm may be rejected even if they are under 8 kg.

Final Thoughts

To ensure a smooth journey in 2026, measure your bags, weigh them at home, and purchase any necessary extras online before you head to the airport.

Ready to fly? Double-check your specific allowance by logging into LOT.com under “Manage My Booking” for the most accurate, real-time details for your itinerary.