LOT Polish Airlines is a well-known Polish airline with almost 100 years of history. Whether you're heading to Kraków, Warsaw, or another European hidden gem, LOT can take you there. That said, don’t pack everything just yet. But before you get lost in your dream trip across the globe, let's learn about LOT Polish Airlines baggage limits first, so as to avoid any baggage problems at the gate. Understanding the rules is the key to travelling with freedom and zero stress. Here’s a clear, simple breakdown of LOT’s carry-on allowance and everything you need to know before flying with this carrier.

LOT Polish Airlines Overview

A LOT Polish Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in a special “Proud of Polish Independence” livery. LOT Polish Airlines (IATA: LO) is the flag carrier of Poland. It was founded in 1928 (commencing operations in 1929) and is one of the world’s oldest airlines still in operation. 

In 2025, Skytrax upgraded LOT to a 4-Star airline rating in recognition of its improved service quality and onboard product. The airline also operates one of the youngest fleets in Europe and exclusively uses Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets for all its long-distance routes. It has also earned prestigious awards. In June 2025, LOT was named the “Best Eastern European Airline.”

LOT has been expanding its network and garnering industry recognition. For example, the airline recently launched new routes to destinations in the Middle East and Africa (such as a direct Warsaw-Marrakesh flight in late 2025). 

Carry-On Baggage Allowance – Cabin Baggage Dimensions Policy

LOT airlines carry-on and personal item explained.

LOT Hand luggage size

LOT's carry-on luggage allowance is regulated by class, ticket, and itinerary. Each traveller can carry one compact bag or personal item. All carry-on luggage must be stored in the bin above or beneath the seat in front of you and must meet the following specifications:

• Hand luggage maximum dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm

• Underseat bag maximum dimensions: 40 cm x 35 cm x 12 cm

The underseat bag could be one of these items:

• Handbag/men's bag

• A small backpack

• A sachet/fanny pack

• A laptop

• An umbrella

• A small photo camera

• A pair of binoculars

• A folding stroller or a pushchair, as well as baby food,

• Up to two mobility aid devices, such as crutches, a walker, a cane, or a wheelchair.

• Personal medical equipment such as POC, CPAP, insulin pump, etc.

• Duty-free purchases.

LOT Polish Airlines is quite strict about hand luggage size and weight, especially in Economy. If you want to avoid last-minute surprises at the gate, it’s smart to pack light and bring a bag that fits under the seat. 

One great option that meets LOT’s size rules and works for nearly every airline, even the stricter low-cost ones, is the CabinZero 28L underseat backpack. It’s compact, lightweight, and designed to slide right under the seat in front of you, so you can breeze through boarding without worrying about overhead bin space or extra fees.

LOT Carry-on Weight Limits by Class

It will only be free of charge if you adhere to the rules of the airline's hand luggage allowance. Otherwise, you will have to pay an additional cost since they would be deemed carry-on luggage.

LOT Checked Baggage Allowance Policy

LOT's checked luggage allowance, like their carry-on baggage limit, is determined by ticket class and flight segment.  Economy travellers do not receive a checked luggage allowance as part of the cost, thus you must purchase additional baggage. Economy Flex and Economy passengers can check in one piece of luggage weighing no more than 23 kilograms.

Each passenger is permitted one checked bag as long as it meets the standards listed below:

• For international flights with Economy Class and Flexibility, travellers can bring 1-2 pieces of luggage (depending on the flight route), with a maximum weight of 23kg.

• For Business Class flights, you will be given 32kg luggage for three checked bags, which is extremely comfortable and plenty for your travel. You should verify with your airline ticket agent or online ahead of time to ensure that your departure and destination points, as well as your ticket class, allow for checked luggage.

• Saver class is the only one without a complimentary checked bag. Fliers have to book additional hold baggage before flying.

LOT checked baggage varies based on your ticket class. Photo by Friends Stock - stock.adobe.com

Lot's Excess Baggage Policy

If your baggage is already overweight and does not satisfy the above limits, the airline will charge you an extra baggage fee. The cost of oversized luggage varies based on your flying itinerary. You must pay this fee when you check in at the airport.

As a general range, penalties for overweight (up to 32 kg) or oversized pieces can go from roughly US$55 to $380, depending on the route, fare, and baggage dimensions .

For example, on intercontinental flights, overweight or oversized baggage may cost between €107‑214 or USD 120‑240, while even larger or heavier oversize items can reach around €321‑474 (≈USD 360‑560) if purchased at the airport .

Sports equipment & CPAP

1. Sports Equipment

You are welcome to bring sports gear on LOT flights as part of your checked baggage allowance if space permits. This includes items like skis, snowboards, surfboards, golf clubs, and bicycles. If you’ve already used up your free baggage allowance, you can still carry sports equipment by paying an extra fee, which depends on your route and the size of the item.

Keep in mind:

• Sports items must weigh no more than 32 kg (around 70 lb). Heavier equipment must travel as cargo.

• Oversized gear is allowed even if it exceeds normal dimensions, but it's subject to extra charges .

• Make sure to declare your equipment at least 24 hours before departure, listing its type, weight, and dimensions. Space varies by aircraft, and some items may not be accepted.

2. CPAP Devices and Medical Equipment

LOT permits passengers to bring CPAP machines and other personal medical devices like insulin pumps and oxygen concentrators. Here’s what you need to know:

• CPAP units must be battery-powered and fully charged before the flight, as there is no onboard power supply.

• You should inform LOT at least 72 hours in advance, especially if you intend to use your device during the flight. A MEDIF (medical information) form may be needed, depending on your health condition.

• These devices are not counted as part of your regular carry-on allowance, but since airline policies vary, it's best to confirm during check-in or at booking .

Booking and Check-in process with LOT

Checking in is easy, if you are familiar with other airlines. Photo by zephyr_p - stock.adobe.com

1. Booking Process

Booking a flight with LOT Polish Airlines is simple and convenient.

• Step 1: Go to the LOT Polish Airlines website or open their mobile app. Enter your departure and destination cities, travel dates, number of passengers, and whether you want a one-way or round-trip flight. Then click “Search” to see available options.

• Step 2: Browse through the available flights. You’ll see different times, durations, and prices. LOT offers several fare types (like Saver, Standard, Flex, etc.), each with different baggage and change rules. Choose the option that suits your needs and budget.

• Step 3: Enter the full name, date of birth, contact information, and travel document details (like passport number) for each passenger. Make sure the names match the ID you’ll use at the airport.

• Step 4: Before payment, you’ll have the option to add services such as checked baggage, seat selection, special meals, or travel insurance. You can skip this step or come back to it later through "Manage Booking."

• Step 5: Choose your preferred payment method (credit card, PayPal, or others, depending on your country) and complete the transaction. The total price will include taxes and any extras you selected.

• Step 6: Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation email. This includes your booking reference (6-letter code) and ticket number. Keep this email safe, you’ll need it later to check in or make changes.

2. Checkin Process

Checking in for your LOT flight is pretty straightforward, and you’ve got a few options to choose from.

Online

The easiest and most popular way is to check in online, either on LOT’s official website or through their mobile app. Online check-in opens 36 hours before your flight and closes 2 hours before departure. All you need is your booking reference or ticket number, plus your last name, to get started.

Once you're in, you can select your seat, review your flight details, and add services like extra baggage if needed. When you're done, your boarding pass will be sent to your email or appear right in the app. You can print it out or simply save it to your phone for quick access at the airport.

Airport Check-in

However, if your journey involves certain travel documents, like a visa, or if your passport needs to be checked, you might still have to visit the check-in counter at the airport, even if you’ve already checked in online.

For flights within Europe, counters typically open about two hours before departure. For long-haul international flights, they usually open three hours ahead. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially if you need to drop off luggage or go through extra document checks.

Automated Check-In

In some cases, you don’t have to do anything at all. Your boarding pass will be sent to you automatically 36 hours before your flight, by email or text. All you have to do is register via LOT Contact Centre at least 24 hours before flying.

Select passengers, including those flying in Business Class, Premium Economy, those with frequent flyer status or travelling with children under 12/2, are automatically eligible for this service. 

Note that this is not possible when you are travelling to a country that requires a passport check.

Self-Service Lot Kiosks

This check-in method with LOT is only available at Warsaw Chopin Airport (and on direct flights only). Note that if you travel with oversized baggage or special luggage, you can’t use the kiosks and have to check in at the counter instead.

Things You May Not Know About LOT

2. Routes May Not Show Up Everywhere

Surprisingly, some LOT flights don’t always appear on popular search engines like Google Flights. For example, a Kraków-to-Chicago service didn't show up in Google searches, even though it exists, and the same issue has been reported on FlyerTalk. That means your best bet is to check LOT’s official website directly when booking.

FAQs

1. How Much Baggage Is Allowed In Lot Polish Airlines?

LOT passengers in Economy class can bring one carry-on bag weighing up to 8 kg, along with a small personal item like a handbag or laptop. If you're flying Premium Economy or Business on long-haul routes, you're allowed more generous limits, up to two cabin bags with a combined or separate weight, depending on the class. 

For checked baggage, the allowance varies by fare type: Economy Flex often includes one 23 kg bag, while higher classes like Premium and Business include two or more bags, each weighing up to 32 kg.

2. How Strict Are LOT Polish Airlines With Baggage?

LOT tends to be quite attentive when it comes to luggage rules. They may weigh or measure your bags at check-in or the gate, and if anything exceeds the allowed size or weight, you'll likely be charged extra or asked to check it in.

3. Does LOT Airlines Have Free Baggage?

Yes, carry-on luggage and a personal item are always included. Free checked baggage, however, depends on your ticket type. Economy Saver fares usually don’t come with checked luggage by default, while higher-tier fares like Economy Flex, Premium Economy, or Business do.

4. What is LOT Polish Airlines’ international baggage policy?

On international flights, LOT offers different baggage allowances based on cabin class. Economy passengers typically get one cabin bag and one checked bag up to 23 kg. Premium Economy travelers are allowed two carry-ons and two checked bags (each up to 23 kg), while Business Class passengers can bring two cabin bags and two or three checked bags weighing up to 32 kg each, depending on the destination.

Conclusion

Flying with LOT Polish Airlines is straightforward if you follow the rules closely. Make sure to check your baggage allowance before the flight and complete your check-in on time. LOT can be strict, especially with hand luggage, so staying within the limits helps you avoid unexpected fees. 

Finally, if you found this article useful, don’t hesitate to let us know in the comment section and share it with your friends. Thanks for coming!

Ha Ngan