Today, we’re talking about something important for your travels with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – baggage fees. If you’ve ever wondered about how much it costs to bring your stuff on board, you’re in the right place.

We’ll break down the fees, talk about any recent changes, and share some easy tips to help you out.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Baggage Policy Basics

In the ever-evolving world of air travel, the importance of understanding an airline’s baggage policy cannot be overstated. If we dig a little deeper into KLM Royal Dutch Airlines‘ baggage policies, we find a robust structure that balances flexibility with customer convenience.

An essential detail to note is that Economy Class passengers are allowed one piece of carry-on luggage and a personal item, not exceeding 12 kg and 40 x 30 x 15 cm in dimensions. An additional half meter of linear dimensions is allowed for Business Class passengers with the weight limit set at 18 kg.

Notably, the check-in luggage policies of KLM are finely attuned to market needs, with a maximum weight limit set at 23 kg for Economy Class passengers and 32 kg for Business Class passengers. The total dimensions (length + height + breadth) for checked luggage should not exceed 158 cms, regardless of the class flown.

However, passengers must remember that excess weight or size will attract additional fees. Additionally, the “Flying Blue Silver, Gold and Platinum members” are allowed additional baggage allowances which speak to KLM’s ability to recognize and reward customer loyalty.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Baggage Fees

KLM offers three main ticket classes, each with varying baggage allowances:

  • Light: Only one piece of hand baggage is permitted. Checked baggage incurs additional fees.
    • Hand baggage fees:
      • Within Europe: €40 at the airport, €30 online.
      • Intercontinental: €60 at the airport, €40 online.
  • Standard: Includes one piece of hand baggage and one checked bag (up to 23kg and 158cm total dimensions).
  • Flex: Enjoys the same allowance as Standard, plus Flying Blue members (Platinum, Gold, Silver) can bring an additional checked bag.

Hand Baggage Essentials:

Regardless of your ticket class, you’re entitled to one hand baggage (55 x 35 x 25 cm, 10kg) and one small accessory (40 x 30 x 15 cm). Ensure liquids comply with carry-on regulations.

Planning for Checked Baggage:

  • Pre-purchase additional bags: Save money by booking extra bags online before your flight.
    • Within Europe: €20-€70.
    • Intercontinental: €30-€240.
  • Flying Blue benefits: Gold and Silver members get one extra checked bag on most routes.
  • Excess baggage fees: Exceeding weight or size limits incurs fees ranging from €70-€200 within Europe and €75-€300 for intercontinental flights.

Impact of Baggage Fees on KLM Revenue

With the knowledge that luggage can considerably increase an airline’s revenue stream, KLM ingeniously leverages its baggage fees policy to amplify its overall earnings. The approach is subtle, yet highly efficient. For instance, charging a fee on each additional check-in bag, beyond the complimentary one for Economy Class passengers and two for Business Class passengers, directly impacts the financial bottom line.

This prudently calculated move encourages passengers to carefully consider the necessity of taking more luggage, invariably swaying them towards maintaining the luggage limits which results in nominal revenue.

Moreover, the idea of charging a fine for non-compliance with luggage size and weight restrictions has dual-fold benefits. From a revenue point, the fine acts as a deterrent to passengers who might otherwise be tempted to exceed their baggage allowance. This simultaneously elevates their revenue while ensuring smoother operations.

Enhanced revenue is further ensured with variable baggage fees dependent on the destination – hardly a random decision, but a clever revenue-maximizing strategy based on passenger trends and willingness to pay.

How much do you pay for a baggage in KLM?

The amount you pay for your luggage on KLM Airlines is based on your ticket, where you’re going, and how heavy/big your bag is. You can find out how much luggage you’re allowed online or by calling their service.

If your bag is extra heavy or big within Europe, it can cost between €20 and €70, and for international flights, it can be between €30 and €240. It’s cheaper if you book and pay for your extra luggage before your trip.

Does KLM allow 2 free checked bags?

If you’re flying with KLM in Premium Comfort or Business Class, you can check in two bags for free, no matter what type of ticket you have. In Economy Class, Standard and Flex tickets include one checked bag, but if you have a Light ticket, you can only bring a carry-on.

There are some special rules for certain routes, and if you’re a Flying Blue member, you might get extra allowances. To be sure about how much luggage you can bring, check your ticket and route details on the KLM website or app.

Is KLM strict with baggage allowance?

KLM is pretty reasonable when it comes to checked baggage, but they can be particular about the size and weight of carry-ons, especially during busy times and on flights within Europe.

If you think you might need more space, it’s a good idea to book extra bags in advance. Make sure to review the size and weight limits beforehand and weigh your luggage at home to avoid any surprises.

How many baggage does KLM allow on international flights?

When it comes to international flights with KLM, the number of free checked bags you get depends on your ticket class. Premium Comfort and Business always get 2 bags, while Economy Standard/Flex gets 1 bag, and Economy Light gets none.

There are some special rules for certain routes, such as Africa or the Caribbean, and Flying Blue members might get extra bags as a bonus.

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Suman Karki
Suman Karki is the founder of the AviaTech Channel blog and YouTube Channel. He is a passionate aviation enthusiast and holds experience working as a Ground Operations Officer for Swissport International. He is currently serving as a Flight Data Feeder for FlightAware (a US-based company for Flight Tracking). Besides, he has worked as an aviation content editor for various aviation media.