LOT Polish Airlines Carry On & Baggage Rules

If you’ve ever planned a trip to or through Poland, chances are LOT Polish Airlines popped up as an option. They’re the national flag carrier, based out of Warsaw, and honestly, they’re one of the more underrated European airlines. The seats are comfy enough, the crews are friendly (most of the time), and they’ve got a pretty wide network across Europe, North America, and Asia.

But, and here comes the catch, when it comes to baggage rules, LOT is one of those airlines where you really have to read the fine print. The difference between their Saver fares, Standard fares, and Business Class can feel like three completely different airlines when it comes to what you can and can’t bring on board. I once overheard a passenger arguing at the check-in counter because he thought his “cheap ticket” included a checked bag… let’s just say he learned the hard way.

In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what you can carry on, what personal items are allowed, and how much baggage you get depending on your fare class. We’ll also cover those sneaky extra fees, traveling with pets, sports gear, and even a few tips to avoid last-minute surprises at the airport. Basically, if you’re flying LOT and don’t want to get slapped with an unexpected fee, keep reading.

LOT Polish Airlines Carry On Allowance

When it comes to carry on bags, LOT Polish Airlines keeps things pretty simple but with some differences depending on your ticket type.

• Economy Class: You can bring one carry on bag plus one personal item like a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack.

• Premium Economy and Business Class: You get a little more room to play with. Passengers here can bring two carry on bags plus one personal item.

The standard size for a carry on bag is 55 x 40 x 23 cm which is about 21 x 16 x 9 inches. LOT is not as lenient as some US airlines, so if your bag looks oversized they will definitely check it.

Weight limits depend on your cabin class too.

• Economy passengers usually get a max of 8 kg (about 17 pounds).

• Premium Economy and Business passengers can bring two bags up to 9 kg each.

Your personal item should be something small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Think of items like a slim backpack, a laptop case, or a handbag.

👉 Pro tip: LOT agents at Warsaw Chopin Airport are known to actually weigh bags, especially on long haul flights. If you are someone who likes to stuff your carry on until the zippers are screaming, you might want to pack a little lighter or use a personal item that can take some overflow.

Personal Item Rules

Along with your carry on, LOT lets you bring one personal item on board. The key thing here is that it has to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

What counts as a personal item? LOT is pretty clear about it:

• A handbag or purse

• A laptop bag

• A slim backpack

• Duty free shopping bag

• Baby bag (for essentials if you are traveling with an infant)

In real life, I have seen passengers sneak in slightly bigger backpacks as personal items and sometimes it goes unnoticed. But don’t push your luck too much, especially on flights out of Warsaw where the staff are stricter.

If you are traveling with a baby, you are allowed to bring baby food, milk, or formula in addition to the personal item, which is a nice touch. Strollers and car seats are handled under special equipment rules, but we’ll get to that later.

👉 Quick tip: If you have a heavy carry on bag, use your personal item to stash the heavier items like electronics or chargers. That way, even if your carry on gets weighed, you are less likely to be over the weight limit.

Checked Baggage Policy

This is where things with LOT get a little tricky because the allowance really depends on what type of ticket you bought. Their fares range from the bare bones Saver to the more generous Standard and Flex options, plus Premium Economy and Business.

• Economy Saver: This is the cheapest fare and usually does not include any checked baggage at all. You’ll have to pay extra if you want to check a bag.

• Economy Standard and Flex: These typically come with one checked bag up to 23 kg (about 50 pounds).

• Premium Economy: You get two checked bags up to 23 kg each.

• Business Class: You get the most generous allowance with two checked bags up to 32 kg each.

As for dimensions, LOT follows the standard rule of 158 cm total (that’s the length + width + height added together). Oversized bags will cost extra, and they can be pretty strict about this.

If your bag goes over the weight limit, expect to pay a hefty fee at the airport. Overweight charges are more expensive than pre paying for an extra bag online, so if you know you’ll be carrying more, it’s smarter to sort it out before you get to the airport.

👉 Real world tip: LOT’s check in counters in Warsaw are quick to flag bags that look overweight. I once saw a traveler unpacking his suitcase at the counter just to move shoes and a jacket into his carry on so he wouldn’t get charged. Save yourself the stress and check the weight before you head out.

Extra Baggage Fees

If you end up with more bags than your fare allows, or if your suitcase tips the scale, LOT will happily charge you extra. The fees depend on your route, your cabin class, and whether you pay online or at the airport.

• Extra piece of baggage: Buying it online is usually cheaper. For example, on long haul routes like Europe to North America, an extra 23 kg bag can cost around $70 to $100 online but more like $150 at the airport.

• Overweight baggage: If your bag is over 23 kg but under 32 kg (for Economy or Premium Economy), you’ll pay a fee. On long haul flights, this can be $80 to $120 per bag.

• Oversized baggage: If your suitcase is bigger than the 158 cm total dimension limit, expect another charge on top, often $150 or more depending on the route.

LOT also charges differently for short European routes versus long intercontinental ones, so always check their baggage calculator before flying.

👉 Smart tip: If you know you’ll need an extra bag, always pay online at least 24 hours before your flight. The difference between online prices and airport prices can easily cover a nice dinner in Warsaw.

Special and Sports Equipment

LOT Polish Airlines is fairly accommodating when it comes to sports gear and other special items, but of course, it usually comes at a price.

Sports Equipment

• Skis and Snowboards: Poland is close to the Tatra Mountains, so ski gear is common. LOT allows skis and snowboards, but you’ll need to register them in advance and pay an equipment fee unless your fare includes it.

• Golf Clubs: Treated as special baggage. One golf bag can often travel for a fixed fee.

• Bikes: Allowed but must be packed properly (tires deflated, pedals removed, handlebars turned). Fees apply.

• Other gear: Surfboards, diving equipment, and other oversized items are accepted with prior booking.

Musical Instruments

Smaller instruments like violins or guitars can sometimes be carried in the cabin if they fit the size and weight limits. Larger instruments will need to go as checked baggage or even as cargo.

Baby Equipment

If you are traveling with an infant, you can usually bring one stroller or car seat free of charge in addition to your baggage allowance. This makes family travel a bit easier.

Medical Equipment

Wheelchairs and necessary mobility aids are transported free of charge. It is best to notify LOT when booking so they can arrange assistance if needed.

👉 Travel tip: If you are flying during ski season, make sure to book your ski or snowboard transport early. LOT tends to limit how many sets of oversized gear can fit on a flight, and it is first come, first served.

LOT’s Saver Fare Gotchas

If you are the kind of traveler who jumps on the cheapest ticket, you’ve probably noticed LOT’s “Saver” fare pop up a lot when booking. At first glance, it looks like a bargain. The ticket price is lower, you get to the same destination, and you think you’ve outsmarted the system. But here’s the catch: Saver fares usually come with no checked baggage included.

This means if you show up at the airport with a suitcase expecting it to be free, you’ll get hit with an extra charge that’s often more expensive than if you had just bought the Standard fare in the first place. LOT is not shy about enforcing this rule either.

Another sneaky detail with Saver fares is that they often come with stricter change and cancellation policies. You might save some money upfront, but if your travel plans are even a little uncertain, it could end up costing you more in the long run.

👉 Personal story time: On one of my trips through Warsaw, I watched a traveler discover at the check in counter that her Saver ticket didn’t include a checked bag. She had packed a massive suitcase for a two week trip and ended up paying nearly the same as a Premium Economy passenger just to get her bag on the plane. The look on her face said it all.

Bottom line: If you are booking a Saver fare, double check what’s included and what’s not. Sometimes spending a little more for Standard can save you a lot of stress (and money) later.

Recommended Travel Gear for LOT Polish Airlines

Flying with LOT is smoother when you have the right luggage and accessories. Since they can be strict about weight and size limits, here are some solid travel gear picks that match LOT’s carry on rules and make your trip a whole lot easier.

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1. Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Carry On

This one is a traveler favorite because it’s lightweight but still durable enough to survive airport handling. At 20 inches, it fits well within LOT’s carry on size limits. The spinner wheels make gliding through Warsaw Chopin’s long hallways effortless, and the hard shell gives peace of mind if you are carrying fragile items.

Pros: Stylish, scratch resistant, rolls smoothly
Cons: Can scuff if handled roughly

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2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Underseat Tote

This is perfect as a personal item on LOT flights. It fits under the seat, has smart pockets for electronics and chargers, and it’s surprisingly spacious without looking bulky. It also has a rear strap that slips over a suitcase handle for easier airport navigation.

Pros: Lightweight, practical, easy access pockets
Cons: Not ideal if you need to carry larger laptops

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3. Etekcity Digital Hanging Luggage Scale

Since LOT is known to weigh carry ons, this tiny gadget can save you from nasty surprises at check in. Just hook your bag and lift to see the weight instantly. Small enough to tuck into your backpack for the return flight too.

Pros: Affordable, accurate, pocket size
Cons: Easy to misplace if you don’t keep it in the same spot

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4. BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a lifesaver if you want to maximize every inch of your carry on. This set gives you multiple sizes, so you can separate clothes, toiletries, and even shoes. Makes unpacking in your hotel room way easier too.

Pros: Helps organize, compresses clothes, durable zippers
Cons: Adds a little extra weight (but worth it for organization)

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5. Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Checked Luggage (28 inch)

If you’re flying on a Standard or Business fare and get a checked bag, this one is a tank. It’s sturdy, scratch resistant, and fits within LOT’s checked baggage size limits. Plus, it comes with TSA approved locks built in.

Pros: Tough, sleek, smooth spinner wheels
Cons: Heavier than softside options

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👉 Pro tip: Always double check the size and weight limits for your fare before you buy new luggage. LOT is not as forgiving as some US airlines when it comes to dimensions, so it’s better to stay on the safe side.

Tips for Flying LOT Polish Airlines

Flying LOT can be a pleasant experience, but only if you play by their baggage rules. Here are a few tips to make sure things go smoothly.

1. Arrive early for international flights
   LOT is one of those airlines that really likes to weigh and measure bags at check in, especially for transatlantic routes. Give yourself extra time in case you need to shuffle things around.

2. Use a luggage scale at home
   Because LOT charges steep fees for overweight bags, weighing your luggage before you leave the house can save you money and stress.

3. Pack essentials in your carry on
   If your checked bag is delayed, you will thank yourself for keeping a spare outfit, toiletries, and any medication in your cabin bag.

4. Be mindful of Saver fares
   If you go for the cheapest option, double check what is included. Most Saver fares don’t come with a checked bag and changes are usually expensive.

5. Expect stricter enforcement at Warsaw Chopin Airport
   This is LOT’s main hub, and staff here are especially attentive when it comes to baggage rules. On smaller regional flights, they can be a bit more lenient, but in Warsaw, they stick to the book.

6. Make the most of your personal item
   If your carry on is close to the weight limit, put heavier items like electronics, power banks, and books into your personal item. LOT doesn’t always weigh personal items.

👉 Quick travel story: I once saw a guy stuffing his winter jacket full of books at the Warsaw gate because his suitcase was too heavy. It looked ridiculous, but hey—it worked. The staff didn’t bat an eye.

Frequently Asked Questions about LOT Polish Airlines Baggage

Does LOT really weigh carry ons?
Yes, especially on international flights. At Warsaw Chopin Airport, agents often check both the size and weight of carry ons.

Can I bring duty free shopping in addition to my carry on?
Yes, duty free purchases are allowed on top of your normal cabin allowance, as long as they are in a sealed bag.

What is the infant baggage allowance?
If you are traveling with an infant, you can bring a baby bag with food and supplies in addition to your carry on. You also get one stroller or car seat free of charge.

How much does extra baggage cost on transatlantic flights?
It varies, but generally an extra 23 kg bag bought online costs around 70 to 100 dollars. At the airport, the same bag could cost 150 dollars or more.

Does LOT allow smart luggage with batteries?
Yes, but only if the battery is removable. For carry on smart luggage, the battery must stay attached. For checked smart luggage, the battery has to be removed and carried in the cabin.

What happens if my bag is oversized?
If your bag is larger than 158 cm (total length + width + height), you will be charged an oversize fee. On long haul routes, this can be over 150 dollars.

Can I bring sports equipment like skis or golf clubs?
Yes, LOT accepts sports gear as special baggage. You need to book it in advance and pay the applicable fee.

Are pets allowed in the cabin?
Yes, cats and dogs under 8 kg including their carrier are allowed in the cabin. Larger pets must travel in the hold or as cargo.

Do Saver fares include any checked baggage?
No, Saver fares generally include only cabin baggage and a personal item. Checked baggage must be purchased separately.

Conclusion

Flying with LOT Polish Airlines can actually be a pretty smooth experience, as long as you know what to expect with their baggage rules. The biggest thing to keep in mind is that your allowance depends heavily on the fare type you book. Saver might look tempting, but it often ends up costing more once you add in a checked bag at the airport.

Stick to the size and weight rules for your cabin bag, use your personal item wisely, and always check your suitcase with a luggage scale before heading out. If you’re bringing sports gear, pets, or anything unusual, make sure you pre book it so you’re not caught off guard.

At the end of the day, LOT is not trying to make life difficult—they’re just one of those airlines that plays by the book when it comes to baggage. With a little planning, you’ll breeze through check in and have more time to enjoy a coffee at Warsaw Chopin Airport before your flight.

👉 Bottom line: Pack smart, double check your fare type, and you’ll avoid those surprise fees that so many travelers complain about.