If you’ve ever flown through Europe, chances are you’ve seen that familiar blue aircraft parked at the gate with bold letters spelling KLM. Short for Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij (try saying that five times fast), KLM is the flag carrier of the Netherlands and also happens to be one of the oldest airlines in the world still operating under its original name. Pretty cool, right?
I remember the first time I flew KLM out of Amsterdam Schiphol. There was something oddly comforting about the friendly crew and the way everything felt so… organized. But like any airline, before you even step onboard, you’ve got to navigate the carry-on and baggage rules. And trust me, KLM’s policies can feel straightforward on the surface, but there are some sneaky differences depending on whether you’re flying Economy, Premium Comfort, or Business Class.
That’s exactly what this guide is here for. We’ll break down KLM’s carry-on size limits, checked baggage allowances, personal item rules, and even how strict they are at the gate. Plus, I’ll share a few packing hacks that can save you from surprise fees (because who wants to spend €70 just for an extra kilo of luggage?).
So let’s get into it, here’s everything you need to know before packing your bags for your next flight with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
KLM carry on allowance
Economy Class
If you are flying in economy, KLM usually lets you bring one regular carry on bag plus a smaller personal item. The main carry on bag should be around 55 × 35 × 25 cm, while the smaller bag can be about 40 × 30 × 15 cm. Together, the weight limit is 12 kilograms. If you booked the very basic economy fare, you only get the small personal item included, and you would need to pay extra if you want the larger hand baggage.
Premium Comfort
In premium comfort you get more flexibility. You can bring two larger carry on bags along with one personal item, but the total weight still needs to stay within 12 kilograms. This is great for travelers who like to split their belongings across two small suitcases or a suitcase plus a duffel.
Business Class
Business travelers get the most generous allowance. You can bring two carry on bags plus one personal item, and in this case the combined weight can go up to 18 kilograms. That extra allowance makes a big difference if you are carrying a laptop, work documents, and a change of clothes all at once.
A quick tip
KLM expects you to be able to lift your own bag into the overhead bin without crew assistance, so it is best not to pack it so heavily that you cannot manage it yourself.
KLM personal item rules
When it comes to personal items, KLM keeps things simple. Your personal item is basically anything that can slide under the seat in front of you. Think of a small backpack, laptop bag, camera bag, or a handbag. The maximum size is around 40 × 30 × 15 cm.
If you are flying in economy, you are allowed one personal item along with your carry on bag. In premium comfort and business class, you still only get one personal item, but since you can bring more carry on bags, the combo feels much roomier.
From my experience, KLM staff are not super strict about measuring personal items unless your bag is obviously oversized. As long as it looks like it will fit under the seat, you are usually fine. But if you try sneaking in a chunky hiking backpack as your “personal item,” they may ask you to check it.
A quick tip: keeping your personal item light and compact makes boarding much easier. I like to put essentials such as my passport, charger, headphones, and a small snack in my personal item so I do not need to rummage through the overhead bin mid flight.
KLM checked baggage rules
Economy Light
If you buy an Economy Light ticket, it does not include any checked baggage by default. You only get your carry on allowance, and if you need a checked bag, you will have to pay for it separately. This is KLM’s way of keeping the lowest fares as cheap as possible.
Standard Economy
With the Standard or Flex economy fares, you usually get one checked bag included. The bag can weigh up to 23 kilograms and the maximum size is 158 cm when you add length, width, and height together. This is the most common allowance for most international economy flights with KLM.
Premium Comfort
In premium comfort, the checked baggage allowance is more generous. You normally get two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kilograms. This is perfect for longer trips when you need to bring more clothes or gear.
Business Class
Business passengers can check in two bags as well, but each one can be up to 32 kilograms. The size limit of 158 cm still applies. This is one of the biggest perks of flying business, especially if you are carrying heavy work equipment or just like to pack a little extra.
Extra bags and fees
If your bag goes over the weight or size limit, or if you need to check more than your allowance, KLM charges extra fees. These can add up quickly, so it is usually better to pre pay for an extra bag online rather than waiting until you are at the airport.
A small tip
Make sure to label your checked baggage clearly and add something colorful to the handle, because at Schiphol Airport dozens of similar looking black suitcases roll out at once. A bright ribbon has saved me more than once from grabbing the wrong bag.
Special items on KLM
Strollers and car seats
If you are traveling with a baby or toddler, KLM allows you to bring a stroller or car seat for free in addition to your regular baggage allowance. Small foldable strollers can usually be taken all the way to the aircraft door, where the crew will place them in the hold and return them at arrival. Larger strollers or car seats are checked in at the counter.
Sports equipment
KLM is pretty friendly when it comes to sports gear. Items like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, or diving equipment are often treated as a standard checked bag, as long as they do not exceed the usual weight and size limits. If they are larger or heavier, extra fees may apply. Bikes can also be checked in but need to be packed properly in a bike box or case, and you usually have to reserve space in advance.
Musical instruments
You can bring smaller instruments such as a violin or guitar in the cabin if they fit within the carry on size limits. If they are too large, they can travel as checked baggage. For very delicate instruments, you can even purchase an extra seat so the instrument stays with you in the cabin.
Pets
Cats and small dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin on most KLM flights, as long as they fit comfortably in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. Larger pets travel in the hold. KLM requires advance reservations for pets, and the number of animals per flight is limited, so it is always best to book early.
Other bulky items
Wheelchairs, medical devices, and mobility aids are accepted without extra cost, though you need to let KLM know in advance so they can make the right arrangements.
Tips for avoiding extra fees
Nobody likes paying surprise baggage fees, and with KLM those can easily sneak up on you if you are not careful. Here are some easy tricks that can save both stress and money.
1. Know your fare type
KLM’s baggage allowance depends a lot on which ticket you booked. An Economy Light ticket looks cheap at first, but it does not include a checked bag. If you know you will need one, compare the price difference with Standard or Flex fares — sometimes paying a little more upfront saves more than buying a bag later.
2. Weigh your bags before leaving home
Airports in Europe are known for being strict about luggage weight. A small handheld luggage scale is cheap and can keep you from going over the 23 kilogram limit. I always check mine the night before a flight.
3. Use packing cubes and compression bags
Packing cubes not only keep things organized but also help you squeeze more clothes into less space. Compression cubes are even better when you are trying to fit bulky winter clothes without tipping the scale.
4. Wear your heaviest items
If you are traveling with boots, a thick jacket, or even a heavy sweater, wear them onto the plane. It frees up space in your bag and reduces weight instantly. Once onboard, you can take off the jacket and use it as a blanket.
5. Buy extra bags online, not at the airport
If you already know you will need another checked bag, add it through KLM’s website or app before your flight. The price is almost always cheaper than paying at the check in desk.
6. Watch your personal item size
Sometimes the personal item ends up being the problem, not the suitcase. Make sure your backpack or handbag really fits under the seat. If it sticks out too much, gate staff may ask you to check it.
Travel gear picks for KLM flyers
Whenever I fly KLM, I like to have gear that fits their specific size rules and makes the whole packing process less stressful. Here are some of my favorite items that work well for KLM’s carry on and baggage policies.
1. Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Carry On
This is a solid choice for anyone flying economy on KLM. The size is perfect for their 55 × 35 × 25 cm limit and it is light enough to stay under the 12 kg weight rule. The hard shell protects your stuff and the spinner wheels make gliding through Schiphol’s long hallways painless.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Bag
For your personal item, this bag is a lifesaver. It slides easily under the seat in front of you, has a surprisingly roomy interior, and a sleeve that lets it sit on top of your rolling carry on. Perfect for keeping snacks, chargers, and documents handy during the flight.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
3. BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes
If you want to maximize KLM’s 12 kg carry on limit, compression packing cubes are your best friend. They let you squish down bulky items like sweaters or jeans while keeping your bag neat and organized. I used these on a winter trip to Amsterdam and fit way more clothes than I thought possible.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
4. Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack
This is a great lightweight backpack option for your personal item. It fits within KLM’s size limit, has space for a laptop and essentials, and is comfortable to carry around the city once you land. I like that it doubles as a daypack when exploring.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
5. Chicco Liteway Stroller
For parents flying KLM with little ones, a foldable stroller is a must. This one folds quickly and meets KLM’s stroller requirements, making it easy to hand over at the gate. Once you arrive, it is waiting for you at the aircraft door, which is a huge help.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
6. Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Checked Luggage
If you are flying Standard Economy or Premium Comfort and get at least one checked bag included, this suitcase is perfect. It holds plenty without going over the 23 kg limit and has a strong locking system for peace of mind.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
These products are all traveler favorites and match KLM’s baggage rules really well. A good suitcase and a reliable underseat bag can make the difference between a smooth trip and a stressful one at the gate.
Frequently asked questions about KLM baggage
Does KLM weigh carry on luggage?
Yes, KLM does check carry on weight, especially on European and long haul flights. The allowance is 12 kg for economy and premium comfort, and 18 kg for business. If your bag looks heavy, they may weigh it at the gate.
What if my carry on is slightly oversized?
If your bag is just a few centimeters larger but still fits easily in the overhead bin, you may get away with it. But if it clearly does not fit or looks bulky, KLM staff will likely ask you to check it and pay the fee.
Are duty free bags counted as part of my allowance?
No, duty free purchases do not count toward your personal item or hand baggage allowance. You can bring them on board in addition to your carry on and personal item.
Can I bring food or snacks on KLM flights?
Yes, you can bring your own food as long as it complies with security rules for liquids and gels. Just avoid strong smelling foods since flights are shared spaces.
What are the rules for liquids and toiletries?
KLM follows the standard European rules: liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less, all packed in a clear resealable plastic bag of no more than one liter. You can only take one such bag per person.
Can I bring sports equipment on KLM?
Yes, sports gear like skis, golf clubs, or diving gear can be checked in as part of your baggage allowance if they fit size and weight limits. Larger or heavier gear requires an extra fee.
Can I bring a pet on KLM flights?
Small dogs and cats can travel in the cabin if they fit in an approved carrier under the seat. Larger pets can fly in the cargo hold. Always book in advance, since pet spots are limited.
What happens if I am connecting with a KLM partner airline?
If your trip includes KLM plus a partner like Air France or Delta, the baggage rules of the first long haul segment usually apply. It is always good to check your booking details to avoid surprises.
Conclusion
Flying with KLM is usually a smooth and pleasant experience, but like with any airline the real trick is understanding the baggage rules before you get to the airport. For most economy passengers that means one carry on bag plus a smaller personal item, with a combined weight of 12 kilograms. Premium comfort and business class travelers get more room to pack, and business passengers enjoy the most generous allowance of all.
The checked baggage rules are also pretty straightforward. Economy light comes with no checked bags, standard economy includes one, and the higher classes give you two with a higher weight limit. Add in the clear policies for strollers, pets, and sports gear, and you will notice that KLM does a good job of keeping things transparent as long as you read the fine print.
My advice is to pack smart, weigh your bags at home, and use little tricks like compression cubes or wearing your heavier items onboard. That way you can breeze through Schiphol Airport without stressing over luggage fees.
So whether you are heading to Amsterdam for a weekend trip or flying halfway around the world with a connection through KLM’s hub, these rules should give you a clear picture of what to expect. Pack light, stay organized, and enjoy the signature KLM hospitality once you are in the sky.
Horace Dupuy is a seasoned traveler and luggage reviewer who has spent years flying with both major and regional airlines across the United States and abroad. His first-hand travel experience has taught him exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to carry-on rules, baggage fees, and packing strategies.
At CarryOnSizes.com, Horace combines personal travel knowledge with in-depth research to provide accurate, up-to-date guides for travelers who want to fly stress-free. When he is not writing about luggage, you will probably find him exploring new destinations with only a compact backpack in tow.