Traveling with LOT Polish Airlines Baggage Policy can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Whether you're flying for business, leisure, or relocating abroad, knowing what you can bring and what to expect in terms of fees and restrictions will save you time and unnecessary hassle. This comprehensive guide breaks down the baggage rules for carry-on, checked baggage, excess luggage, special items, and more.
Cabin Baggage Allowance
LOT Polish Airlines allows passengers to bring cabin baggage on board, but the size and weight depend on your travel class and route.
- Economy Class: Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag weighing up to 8 kg. The dimensions of this bag should not exceed 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm.
- Premium Economy Class: On intercontinental flights, passengers can carry two pieces of hand luggage with a total combined weight of 12 kg.
- Business Class: Passengers are permitted two carry-on bags, each weighing up to 9 kg.
In addition to your carry-on, you’re allowed to bring one personal item like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. The personal item should be light and small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
Checked Baggage Allowance
Checked baggage allowance also varies based on the class of service and the route.
- Economy Class: Passengers are generally permitted one checked bag weighing up to 23 kg. This applies to both domestic and international routes.
- Premium Economy Class: Travelers are allowed two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg. This policy is mostly applicable on long-haul and intercontinental flights.
- Business Class: Enjoys the most generous allowance with up to three checked bags, each weighing up to 32 kg.
The maximum size for a checked bag is 158 cm in total dimensions (length + width + height). Exceeding this limit may result in additional fees or require special handling.
Excess Baggage Fees
LOT Polish Airlines charges additional fees for baggage that exceeds the weight, size, or quantity limits.
- Overweight Baggage: If your checked baggage exceeds the standard weight (e.g., more than 23 kg in Economy), an overweight fee will apply. These fees can vary depending on the route and how much extra weight your bag carries.
- Oversized Baggage: If the total dimensions of your bag exceed 158 cm, you may be charged an oversized baggage fee.
- Extra Pieces: Bringing more bags than allowed for your ticket class will incur a per-piece charge. It's usually cheaper to pay for extra baggage online in advance rather than at the airport.
Special Items and Sports Equipment
LOT Polish Airlines provides options for transporting special items like sports gear and musical instruments.
- Sports Equipment: Items such as skis, bicycles, snowboards, and golf clubs can be transported, but they often require advance booking and may incur additional fees depending on size and weight.
- Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be brought on board as part of your carry-on allowance. Larger instruments may need to be checked or even occupy an additional seat in the cabin.
- Fragile or Valuable Items: It’s advised to carry fragile or valuable items (like electronics and jewelry) in your carry-on baggage whenever possible.
Infant and Child Baggage Policy
Traveling with children? LOT has specific policies to accommodate families with infants and young children.
- Infants (under 2 years old): Typically allowed one checked bag up to 23 kg and a collapsible stroller or infant car seat free of charge.
- Children (2 years and older): Receive the same baggage allowance as adult passengers in their class.
- Baby Essentials: Items like diapers, baby food, and a small changing bag are allowed in addition to your standard carry-on items when traveling with an infant.
Baggage Policy for Miles More Members
Frequent flyers and members of LOT’s loyalty program may benefit from additional baggage allowances.
- Frequent Traveller Status: One extra piece of checked baggage up to 23 kg in Economy Class.
- Senator and HON Circle Members: Typically enjoy even more generous baggage benefits, including extra pieces and higher weight limits.
These allowances apply to both LOT-operated flights and Star Alliance partner flights, but conditions may vary, so it’s good to check your booking details.
Baggage Tips for a Smooth Experience
To ensure a smooth journey with LOT Polish Airlines, keep the following tips in mind:
- Weigh Your Bags at Home: Avoid surprises at the airport by checking the weight and dimensions of your bags before departure.
- Label Your Baggage: Include your contact information on both the outside and inside of your luggage in case it gets misplaced.
- Secure Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap or clothing to cushion delicate items in your checked baggage.
- Pack Light When Possible: If you’re flying short-haul, try to travel with only a carry-on to save time and baggage fees.
Handling Lost or Delayed Baggage
In case your baggage is delayed, lost, or damaged, LOT Polish Airlines has a claims process in place.
- Lost Luggage: Report missing baggage at the airport immediately. LOT will initiate a trace and inform you as soon as it's found.
- Damaged Bags: If your baggage arrives broken or with missing parts, file a damage report at the baggage claim area before leaving the airport.
- Compensation: Depending on the situation and international travel regulations, passengers may be entitled to reimbursement or compensation for lost or damaged luggage.
Keep your baggage receipt and boarding pass, as they are required for filing any claims.
Conclusion
Understanding this is essential for avoiding extra fees and ensuring a smooth travel experience. Whether you’re traveling light with just a carry-on or checking multiple bags for a longer journey, LOT offers a structured and fair baggage system that accommodates most traveler needs. From cabin allowances to handling oversized items and everything in between, being aware of the airline's baggage rules will help you pack smartly and confidently for your next trip. Always double-check your fare class and specific route allowances, and consider booking additional baggage online in advance if needed to save money and reduce airport stress.