What You Can Pack in Hand Luggage

22 April 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A practical guide to carry-on baggage sizes and banned items on Ryanair, Wizz Air, LOT, Lufthansa, KLM and SAS.

Carry-on baggage rules shape how people travel around Europe. Consequently, knowing size and content limits can save time and money.

Table of Contents

Carry-on baggage rules by airline

Most European carriers set a standard cabin bag size. For example, airlines typically allow 55x40x20-23 cm cubes. However, many budget carriers keep a strict small-item policy. For instance, Ryanair normally allows a very small free bag of 40x20x25 cm. Moreover, it sells priority access for a larger wheel-on bag, usually 55x40x20 cm. In addition, Wizz Air often permits a free personal item around 40x30x20 cm. Therefore, the larger 55x40x23 cm bag sits behind a paid fare tier.

By contrast, full-service airlines tend to standardise allowance sizes. For instance, LOT (Polish national carrier) generally accepts 55x40x23 cm. Moreover, Lufthansa and SAS list similar dimensions, often with a small weight limit. In addition, KLM commonly uses 55x35x25 cm, and it sometimes includes a small personal item. Consequently, passengers should check weight rules before packing.

What you can pack and what to avoid

You may carry electronics, essential documents, and medicines in your cabin bag. However, liquids need special care. In addition, airports enforce the 100 ml liquid rule in hand luggage. Therefore, put liquids in a clear resealable bag and present them at security. Moreover, sharp objects, some tools, and flammable items remain forbidden. Consequently, carry only permitted batteries and power banks. In addition, confirm airline rules on lithium cells before flying.

Packing tips to avoid extra fees

Pack a small collapsible bag for purchases, because duty-free rules differ. Moreover, weigh your bag at home to avoid surprises. Also, use a tape measure to prove dimensions. Therefore, choose soft-sided bags to squeeze into overhead bins. In addition, keep critical items like passports and boarding passes in your personal item. Consequently, you can move faster through security and boarding.

Why this matters for expats and visitors

For foreigners living in Poland, small mistakes can cost money. For example, a forgotten oversized cabin bag can trigger a boarding fee. Moreover, airport staff can issue a fine or refuse carriage for banned items. In addition, if you receive a mandat (fine), you must settle it promptly. Also, keep Polish administrative details handy when needed. For instance, show your PESEL (national ID number) when authorities request identification. In addition, remember that public services link to ZUS (social security) and NFZ (National Health Fund) for residency matters.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: Polish airports apply EU security rules. Therefore, liquids above 100 ml stay out of hand luggage. In addition, declare sharp objects and power banks only if allowed. Moreover, if officials issue a mandat (fine), pay it to avoid legal follow-ups. Also, register for local services if you stay long-term. For example, ZUS means social security and NFZ means public health insurance. Finally, keep your PESEL (national ID number) handy for many procedures.

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