KLM carry-on baggage – dimensions, weight, and packing

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is one of the oldest and most renowned airlines in the world, known for its high-quality service and extensive network of connections covering numerous destinations across all continents. As part of the SkyTeam alliance, KLM offers many conveniences to its passengers, making travel comfortable and stress-free. One of the key aspects of a successful journey is proper preparation of carry-on luggage, especially considering the specific requirements of each airline.

Knowing the carry-on baggage rules is crucial before any trip, as it helps avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport, such as additional fees or the need to check in your baggage. Every airline has specific requirements regarding the size, weight, and contents of carry-on baggage, and KLM is no exception. Following these rules not only simplifies the check-in process but also ensures comfort and safety during the flight.

The goal of this post is to provide a detailed explanation of KLM's carry-on baggage rules, including dimensions, weight, and restrictions on the items allowed. Additionally, we will offer practical tips on how to pack efficiently to maximize available space and avoid unnecessary travel stress. With this information, every passenger will be better prepared for their flight and enjoy a smooth journey with KLM.

KLM Carry-On Baggage Rules

Definition of KLM Carry-On Baggage

Carry-on baggage is a type of luggage that passengers are allowed to take onboard the aircraft and store in the overhead compartments or under the seat in front of them. Its primary function is to provide passengers with access to essential items during the flight, such as documents, electronics, medications, toiletries, snacks, or a change of clothes. This makes the journey more comfortable, allowing passengers to easily access necessary items at any time.

Carry-on baggage differs from checked baggage mainly in that it is not handed over to the cargo hold during check-in. Checked baggage is larger and transported in the aircraft's cargo hold, making it unavailable to passengers during the flight. For the safety and comfort of all passengers onboard, carry-on baggage must meet the airline's specific size and weight requirements. On the other hand, checked baggage can be larger and heavier, but it is also subject to specific limits and regulations.

The purpose of carry-on baggage is to ensure convenience and quick access to important items that may be needed during the flight. Proper preparation and adherence to size and weight rules are crucial to avoid issues at the airport and enjoy a smooth trip. As with other airlines, KLM has detailed guidelines on what can and cannot be brought onboard in carry-on luggage, which will be discussed later in this post.

Dimensions and Weight of Carry-On Baggage in KLM

Every airline has its specific requirements regarding carry-on baggage, and KLM is no exception. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, it is important for passengers to be aware of the rules concerning dimensions, weight, and the number of allowed items on board. KLM has different guidelines depending on the travel class and ticket fare.

Economy Class

In Economy Class, passengers may bring one piece of carry-on baggage and one additional personal item, such as a laptop bag or handbag.

• Carry-on baggage: Maximum dimensions are 55 x 35 x 25 cm. The weight of the carry-on baggage along with the additional personal item must not exceed 12 kg.
• Additional personal item: Maximum dimensions are 40 x 30 x 15 cm. The total weight of both items (carry-on baggage and personal item) must not exceed 12 kg.

The additional personal item is usually a smaller item that can be placed under the seat in front of the passenger. This can be a laptop bag, small handbag, backpack, or camera bag.

Business Class

Travelers in Business Class have more flexibility regarding the quantity and weight of carry-on baggage. KLM offers more comfortable conditions for Business Class passengers, which includes higher baggage allowances.

• Carry-on baggage: Business Class passengers may bring two pieces of carry-on baggage on board. Maximum dimensions for each piece are 55 x 35 x 25 cm.
• Additional personal item: Similar to Economy Class, the maximum dimensions of the personal item are 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
• Total weight: The weight of both pieces of carry-on baggage and the personal item must not exceed 18 kg.

Rules Regarding the Additional Personal Item

The additional personal item is a small bag that the passenger can bring on board alongside the carry-on baggage. This can be a laptop bag, handbag, backpack, or small camera bag. It is important that this bag fits under the seat in front of the passenger, which means it must not exceed the specified dimensions. The additional personal item is also counted towards the total weight of carry-on baggage, so it is important to remember the weight limit set by KLM.

In summary, knowing and adhering to the rules regarding the dimensions and weight of carry-on baggage in KLM is crucial to avoid additional fees and inconveniences at the airport. Before each journey, it is advisable to check the airline's current guidelines, as they may be subject to changes.

Rules for Liquids and Other Restrictions

When traveling with airlines, including KLM, passengers must adhere to international security regulations regarding the transport of liquids and other items in carry-on luggage. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew onboard the aircraft.

Transporting Liquids in Carry-On Luggage

The rules for transporting liquids in carry-on luggage are consistent across most airlines worldwide, including KLM. Passengers may carry liquids in their carry-on luggage, but they must meet specific requirements:

• Container size: Each container with liquids, gels, aerosols, pastes, or substances of similar consistency must not exceed 100 ml. This applies to both toiletries (such as shampoos, shower gels, toothpaste) and beverages or other liquid substances.
• Total volume: All containers with liquids must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a capacity not exceeding 1 liter. Each passenger is allowed only one such bag.
• Bag requirements: The liquid bag must be transparent and resealable (e.g., with a zipper or seal) to allow easy inspection by airport security personnel.

These rules aim to limit the amount of liquids on board the aircraft for safety reasons. It’s important to note that prescription medications and specialized food (e.g., baby formula) are not counted towards the liquid limit, but they may be subject to additional screening at the airport.

Prohibited Items in Carry-On Luggage

In addition to liquid restrictions, there is a list of items that are prohibited in carry-on luggage for safety reasons. These include:

• Sharp objects: Knives, scissors (with blades longer than 6 cm), razors, corkscrews, and other sharp items that could be used as weapons.
• Tools: Tools such as screwdrivers, hammers, wrenches, and other items with sharp or heavy ends.
• Explosives and flammable materials: Fireworks, firecrackers, pyrotechnics, and any flammable gas containers, such as gas canisters or large aerosol cans of hairspray.
• Weapons and ammunition: All types of firearms, ammunition, bladed weapons, and weapon replicas.
• Chemicals and toxic substances: Acids, corrosive materials, poisons, as well as radioactive substances and other dangerous chemicals.

Avoiding the transport of these items is essential to prevent issues during security screening and to avoid delays at check-in. Passengers should also remember that some items prohibited in carry-on luggage may be allowed in checked baggage, provided they are properly packed and labeled. In case of uncertainty, it is always advisable to check the airline’s guidelines or consult with staff before the trip.

Following the rules for transporting liquids and other items in carry-on luggage helps ensure a smooth check-in process and the safety of all passengers on board.

How to Effectively Pack Carry-On Baggage

Packing carry-on baggage is an art that requires proper preparation and the selection of the right equipment. A well-chosen suitcase or bag can greatly simplify your journey, helping you make the most of the available space and ensuring comfort during travel. The choice of carry-on baggage depends on the traveler's individual needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Suitcase or Bag

When selecting carry-on baggage, it’s worth paying attention to several key features that will make it perfectly suited to your travel needs:

• Dimensions and weight: The suitcase or bag should meet KLM’s size requirements for carry-on baggage, which is 55 x 35 x 25 cm in Economy Class. A lightweight design will allow you to make the most of the weight allowance for personal items.
• Material and durability: The material of the suitcase or bag is crucial for its durability and the protection of its contents. Hard-shell suitcases made of polypropylen or HPX resin are more resistant to damage, while soft bags made of durable materials like nylon or polyester offer greater flexibility and packing space expansion.
• Internal organization: A well-designed suitcase or bag should have multiple compartments and pockets to help organize your belongings. Sections for electronics, documents, toiletries, or a change of clothes help maintain order and allow quick access to necessary items.
• Mobility and convenience: The wheels and handles of a suitcase significantly impact travel comfort. Suitcases with four 360-degree rotating wheels are more maneuverable and easier to handle, especially in crowded airports. Adjustable, sturdy handles make it easier to transport and lift your baggage.
• Security: Pay attention to suitcases and bags equipped with combination locks or security systems to protect against theft. Suitcases with built-in TSA locks are especially useful for international travel.

Differences Between Cabin Suitcases and Carry-On Backpacks

The choice between a cabin suitcase and a carry-on backpack depends on the type of trip and the traveler’s preferences.

Cabin Suitcases:

• Advantages: They provide better protection for fragile items like electronics and souvenirs. They are easier to organize thanks to rigid dividers and pockets. Ideal for business trips where a professional appearance and easy access to documents and a laptop are required.
• Disadvantages: They may be less convenient for transportation in areas with uneven or hard-to-reach terrain, such as stairs or gravel roads. They can limit mobility, especially when navigating stairs or crowded spaces.

Carry-On Backpacks:

• Advantages: They offer greater flexibility and freedom of movement. Ideal for places with difficult access, such as mountain trails or crowded metro stations. Backpacks usually have more pockets and compartments, allowing for better organization of items.
• Disadvantages: Less protection for fragile items. They may be less spacious than cabin suitcases and don’t always meet airline size requirements for carry-on baggage.

The final choice depends on personal preferences and the type of trip. For business travelers, a cabin suitcase may be a better option, while for tourists who value mobility and flexibility, a carry-on backpack may be ideal. It is important to ensure that the baggage meets KLM's requirements before traveling to avoid issues at check-in and ensure a comfortable flight.

Packing Methods to Save Space

Efficiently packing carry-on luggage is key to a comfortable and stress-free journey. With the right packing techniques, you can save a lot of space, allowing you to take more essential items without exceeding the weight and size limits set by airlines like KLM. Here are a few proven methods to maximize the available space in your carry-on luggage.

Rolling Clothes vs. Folding

One of the most popular packing techniques is rolling clothes instead of traditional folding. Each method has its advantages, depending on the type of clothing and the traveler’s preferences:

Rolling Clothes:

• Advantages: Rolling involves tightly rolling clothes into compact bundles, which helps save space in your luggage. Rolled clothes take up less space and are less prone to wrinkles, which is especially useful for longer trips. This method is ideal for t-shirts, jeans, light sweaters, and underwear.
• How to do it: Lay the clothing flat, fold the sleeves inward (for shirts), and then tightly roll the clothing from the bottom to the top, creating a compact roll.

Folding Clothes:

• Advantages: Folding is a more traditional packing method and may be more suitable for clothes made of materials prone to wrinkling, such as button-down shirts or dress pants. Folding also tends to look more organized and can be easier to manage for larger items.
• How to do it: Lay the clothing flat, fold the sleeves back (for shirts), and then fold the clothing in half or thirds, depending on its size and type.

Using Vacuum Bags and Travel Organizers

Another effective way to save space in your carry-on luggage is by using vacuum bags and travel organizers.

Vacuum Bags:

• Advantages: Vacuum bags are great for packing bulky or voluminous clothes, such as jackets, sweaters, or blankets. They allow air to be removed from the bag, significantly reducing the volume of the clothes. This can save a lot of space in your luggage.
• How to do it: Place your clothes in a vacuum bag, seal it, and use a pump to remove the air. Vacuum bags are reusable and easy to use.

Travel Organizers:

• Advantages: Travel organizers are sets of pouches or bags of various sizes that help organize your luggage. They make it easier to keep things in order and quickly find the items you need. Organizers can also be useful for separating clean and dirty clothes, as well as storing toiletries, cables, or electronics.
• How to do it: Sort your clothes and other items into categories and place them in the appropriate organizers. Then, arrange the organizers in your suitcase or bag to make the most of the available space.

Utilizing Space in Shoes and Suitcase Pockets

Making use of every available space is another way to pack your carry-on luggage efficiently.

Utilizing Space in Shoes:

• Advantages: Shoes take up a lot of space in luggage, but their interior can be used to store smaller items. By placing socks, underwear, jewelry, or small toiletries inside shoes, you can save valuable space and prevent the shoes from getting squished.
• How to do it: Wrap the items you want to store in your shoes in a plastic bag or protective pouch to keep them clean. Then place them inside the shoes, making use of all available space.

Utilizing Suitcase Pockets:

• Advantages: Internal and external pockets in suitcases or bags are perfect for storing small items, such as cables, chargers, documents, books, or headphones. These pockets make it easy to keep things organized and provide quick access to important items without opening the main compartment of your luggage.
• How to do it: Place items you may need during your trip in the external pockets of your suitcase, and those requiring more protection in the internal pockets.

Using these packing methods will help you make the most of the space in your carry-on luggage while ensuring easy access to important items and maintaining order during your trip. Efficient packing is key to a successful journey, especially when space and weight in your luggage are limited.

What to Pack in Your Carry-On

Packing your carry-on luggage is key to ensuring comfort and safety during your trip. It’s important to consider what is truly necessary for the flight and what might be needed in case of flight delays or lost checked baggage. Here’s a list of essential items to pack in your carry-on, along with practical tips for packing toiletries and personal care items.

Essential Items to Pack in Your Carry-On

Travel Documents:

• Passport or ID card.
• Airline tickets and boarding passes (if you’re not using an electronic version).
• Visa (if required).
• Copies of important documents (in case the originals are lost).
• Contact information (hotel address, phone number).

Medications and Medical Supplies:

• Prescription medications in original packaging with labels.
• Over-the-counter medications, such as painkillers, antihistamines, or motion sickness remedies.
• A basic first aid kit (band-aids, bandages, disinfectant).
• A letter from your doctor explaining the need for medications (if necessary).

Electronics:

• Mobile phone and charger.
• Laptop, tablet, or e-reader with necessary chargers.
• Headphones or earbuds.
• Power bank (check if it complies with lithium battery transportation requirements).

Clothing for a Change:

• Underwear and socks.
• One extra t-shirt or blouse.
• Sweater or light jacket (in case of cool temperatures on the plane or climate changes upon arrival).
• Scarf or shawl (useful as an additional cover or pillow).

Snacks and Drinks:

• Light snacks (granola bars, nuts, dried fruits) – ensure they are allowed in the destination country.
• An empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security checks.

Other Important Items:

• Hygiene products (tissues, wet wipes, disinfectant wipes).
• Travel hygiene kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant).
• Eye mask and earplugs (useful for long flights).

Practical Tips for Packing Toiletries and Personal Care Items

Transporting Liquids:

• All liquids, gels, aerosols, pastes, and creams must be carried in containers with a maximum capacity of 100 ml.
• These containers should be placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. Each passenger is allowed only one such bag.
• The bag should be easily accessible during security checks, so it’s a good idea to place it at the top of your carry-on luggage.

Miniatures and Samples:

• Instead of packing full-size toiletries, consider using miniatures or samples that take up less space and weigh less.
• You can also transfer your favorite products into small, reusable travel containers available in drugstores.

Solid Toiletries:

• Where possible, choose solid toiletries, such as bar soap, solid shampoo, or stick deodorant. These products are not subject to liquid transportation restrictions and are more environmentally friendly.

Convenient Packing:

• Choose a toiletry bag with transparent pockets or compartments to easily find what you need.
• Avoid packing too many toiletries – take only what is truly necessary for the duration of your trip.

Packing your carry-on with these tips in mind will help ensure comfort and safety during your flight, while also avoiding issues related to exceeding liquid limits and bringing prohibited items into the airplane cabin.

Practical Tips for Traveling with KLM Carry-On Luggage

Traveling with KLM carry-on baggage can be very convenient, but it requires adhering to certain airline rules and regulations. To avoid extra fees and ensure a comfortable journey, it's worth knowing a few practical tips.

How to Avoid Extra Fees

Adhering to Weight and Size Limits

One of the most important aspects of traveling with carry-on luggage is following the airline's weight and size limits. For KLM, these limits vary depending on the travel class:

• Economy Class: One carry-on item with maximum dimensions of 55 x 35 x 25 cm and one additional personal bag with dimensions up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm. The combined weight of both items cannot exceed 12 kg.
• Business Class: Two carry-on items with maximum dimensions of 55 x 35 x 25 cm each and one additional personal bag with dimensions up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm. The total weight of all items cannot exceed 18 kg.

To avoid extra fees, always check the weight and size of your luggage before heading to the airport. A luggage scale and measuring tape can help ensure your baggage fits within the allowed limits. It's also important to remember that different airlines may have different rules, so always check the current requirements on the carrier's website before each trip.

What to Do if You Exceed the Allowed Limits

If your luggage exceeds the allowed weight or size limits, there are a few options that may help you avoid extra fees:

• Reorganize the contents:
  • If you have an additional personal bag, try transferring some heavier items to it, as long as it doesn’t exceed the weight limit.
  • Assess whether all items in your luggage are really necessary for the trip. You may be able to leave some things behind or move them to checked baggage if you have it.
• Wear heavier clothes:
  • If you have heavy clothes in your luggage, such as jackets or sweaters, you can wear them during check-in. This simple solution can significantly reduce the weight of your carry-on.
• Consider sending some items:
  • For longer trips, it may be worth sending some items via mail or courier to your destination, especially if they are not needed during the flight.
• Invest in extra baggage weight:
  • If you travel with a lot of items, it’s worth investing in extra baggage weight when purchasing your ticket or during online check-in. This is usually cheaper than paying for excess baggage directly at the airport.
• Check for paid baggage options:
  • Some airlines, including KLM, offer the option of checking carry-on luggage into the hold for an additional fee. This can be a convenient option if you’ve exceeded the limits and your luggage is too heavy or large to reorganize.
• Consider buying a larger suitcase or bag:
  • If you frequently exceed weight or size limits, consider purchasing a lightweight, durable suitcase or bag with optimal dimensions. Modern suitcases are designed to be as light as possible, which can help keep your baggage weight below the allowed limit.

Following carry-on luggage guidelines not only helps avoid extra fees but also makes travel more comfortable and stress-free. It’s always worth carefully planning what to bring on board to ensure your luggage fits within the allowed limits while containing all the essential items for your trip.

Preparing for Security Checks

Security checks at the airport are a mandatory step in any flight journey, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew. To go through this process smoothly and without unnecessary delays, it's essential to be well-prepared. The key is organizing items in your carry-on luggage properly and being aware of the rules for carrying electronics and liquids.

Items That Should Be Easily Accessible During Security Checks

To pass through security checks quickly and easily, make sure some items are readily accessible in your carry-on luggage. Below is a list of things that should be placed at the top of your bag or in easily accessible pockets:

• Travel documents:
  • Your passport, ID card, flight tickets, and boarding passes should be easily accessible as they will be required at the security checkpoint.
• Electronics:
  • Laptops, tablets, e-readers, and other larger electronic devices must be removed from your luggage and placed in a separate tray for scanning. It's advisable to store them in an easily accessible compartment of your bag.
• Liquids and toiletries:
  • A bag of liquids (maximum of 1 liter, in containers up to 100 ml) should be easy to access. You will need to remove it from your luggage and place it in a separate tray during the security check.
• Outerwear and shoes:
  • You may be required to remove jackets, coats, or shoes during the security check. Wear shoes that are easy to take off, and clothing that is quick to remove and put back on.
• Metal items:
  • Keys, coins, jewelry, watches, and other metal items can trigger alarms at security gates. It's a good idea to place them in your luggage or a jacket pocket before going through the security check.

Tips for Carrying Electronics and Liquids Through Security

Carrying electronics and liquids through security can be challenging, especially if you're not well-prepared. Here are some practical tips to make the process easier:

• Electronics:
  • Remove electronic devices: All larger electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, or cameras, must be removed from your carry-on luggage and placed in a separate tray. Make sure they are easily accessible and properly protected from damage.
  • Charged devices: Ensure all electronic devices have enough power to be turned on if requested by security personnel. Otherwise, they may be confiscated.
  • Power banks and batteries: Lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in carry-on luggage, not in checked baggage. Each battery should be properly secured to prevent short circuits.
• Liquids:
  • Preparing liquids: All liquids, gels, aerosols, pastes, and creams must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. Each container of liquid cannot exceed 100 ml. Make sure you have only one bag per person.
  • Remove the liquid bag: The liquid bag should be removed from your luggage and placed in a separate tray for scanning during the security check.
  • Solid toiletries: Whenever possible, choose solid toiletries like shampoo bars or stick deodorants, which are not subject to liquid restrictions.
• Other Tips:
  • Minimize metal items: Before going through security, place all metal items in your carry-on or jacket pocket to avoid delays caused by security alarms.
  • Avoid prohibited items: Check the list of prohibited items in carry-on luggage before your trip to ensure you're not carrying anything that could cause issues at security.

Following these tips will help you pass through security quickly and without unnecessary complications, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

Tips for Storing Carry-On Luggage on Board

During air travel, storing your carry-on luggage efficiently is key to maintaining comfort and convenience. To avoid stress and ensure easy access to your most important items during the flight, it’s helpful to know the best places to store your carry-on and how to optimize available space.

Where to Store Your Carry-On Luggage on the Plane

• Overhead Bins:
  • Main storage area: Overhead bins are the primary storage space for carry-on luggage. To ensure you find a spot for your suitcase, it's best to board as soon as possible after boarding begins.
  • Luggage placement: Place your carry-on luggage directly above your seat if possible. This helps avoid issues with accessing your bag during the flight and reduces the risk of mix-ups with other passengers' luggage. Make sure the suitcase is placed with the wheels or handles facing inward, so it's easier to retrieve after landing.
• Under the seat in front of you:
  • Additional personal bag: Small bags such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack should be stored under the seat in front of you. This allows for quick access to essential items such as documents, medications, electronics, or snacks without having to stand up and open the overhead bin.
  • Benefits of storing under the seat: Placing your bag under the seat in front of you leaves more legroom and makes it easier to move around the plane, especially on long-haul flights.
• Avoid storing luggage in distant bins:
  • Why it's important: Storing your carry-on in bins far from your seat can make accessing it during the flight more difficult, especially if other passengers are also using those bins. It can also lead to situations where your bag gets moved or mistakenly taken by another passenger.
  • How to avoid it: If the bins above your seat are full, try to find space in nearby bins, ideally in the same row or directly across from your seat.

How to Optimize Space and Comfort During the Flight

• Compact packing:
  • Space optimization: Try to pack compactly so your luggage takes up as little space as possible. Use soft bags or backpacks that can easily fit under the seat or adjust to available space in the overhead bins.
  • Avoid overpacking: Think about what is truly necessary for the flight and avoid packing too many items in your carry-on. Light packing makes storage easier and increases comfort by eliminating the need to constantly access your luggage.
• Organize your luggage thoughtfully:
  • Category sorting: Organize items in your luggage by category, such as electronics, documents, medications, snacks, etc. Using travel organizers, pouches, or pockets for small items helps maintain order and makes it easier to find what you need.
  • Keep essentials on top: Place frequently used items on top of your luggage or in easily accessible pockets. This way, you can avoid digging through your entire bag for a single item.
• Respect fellow passengers' space:
  • Save space in the bins: Don’t spread out too much or take up more space than necessary. Try to make the most of the available space while respecting other passengers' needs.
  • Avoid blocking the aisle: Ensure that any bag placed under the seat in front of you doesn't block the aisle or limit legroom for your seatmate. On long flights, it’s important to ensure easy movement and not restrict other passengers' comfort.
• Use additional accessories:
  • Travel pillows and blankets: Travel pillows, blankets, and other accessories can increase comfort during the flight but take up space. Opt for inflatable or compressed models that can easily be stored in your carry-on or pockets.
  • Earplugs and eye masks: Useful on long flights, earplugs and eye masks take up little space and can greatly improve comfort by allowing you to rest and relax.

Following these tips will help you optimize storage of your carry-on luggage on the plane, enhancing travel comfort and minimizing stress related to managing your belongings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bring food as carry-on luggage?

Yes, you can bring food on board a KLM flight as carry-on luggage, provided it meets specific safety and security regulations. Passengers can carry most types of food, such as sandwiches, fruits, snacks, or sweets, as long as they are packaged and do not pose a security risk. However, certain restrictions apply:

• Liquids and semi-liquid foods: All liquids and semi-liquid products (e.g., yogurts, jams, peanut butter, sauces, soups) must be carried in containers with a maximum capacity of 100 ml. These containers must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. It's important to note that some airports may have additional restrictions on bringing food.
• Food in destination countries: Before traveling, check the regulations regarding food import in the destination country. Some countries have strict customs regulations concerning fresh food items, such as meat, fruits, vegetables, or dairy products. In such cases, the food may be confiscated by customs upon arrival.

What should I do if my carry-on luggage is too large?

If your carry-on luggage exceeds the allowed dimensions or weight, there are several options passengers can consider to avoid extra charges and issues at the airport:

• Reorganize your luggage: Before check-in, review the contents of your carry-on and reorganize it to reduce weight or size. You can move some items to a personal bag, as long as that bag also complies with the allowed weight and size limits.
• Check your luggage: If your bag exceeds the allowed dimensions or weight, you can choose to check it in as hold luggage. However, be aware that additional charges may apply, especially if the baggage exceeds the weight limits for checked luggage.
• Purchase extra baggage allowance: Some airlines, including KLM, offer the option to purchase additional carry-on or checked baggage allowances. This can be a cost-effective option if you know you will be carrying more than the standard allowance.
• Wear extra layers: If your carry-on is too heavy, you can wear additional clothing, such as jackets, sweaters, or shoes. This reduces the weight of your carry-on and helps avoid extra fees.

Can I carry sports or musical equipment as carry-on luggage?

Carrying specialized sports or musical equipment as carry-on luggage on KLM flights is possible but depends on the size and type of equipment and available space in the cabin. KLM has specific rules about what can be carried as carry-on and what must be checked:

• Small musical instruments: Instruments like violins, violas, or guitars that fit within the allowed carry-on dimensions (55 x 35 x 25 cm) and weight can be carried as hand luggage. If the instrument exceeds these dimensions but still fits in the cabin, passengers may need to purchase an additional seat for it.
• Sports equipment: Small sports equipment, such as diving gear, trekking poles, or roller skates, can be carried as hand luggage if they meet the allowed size and weight limits. Larger items, such as skis, snowboards, bicycles, or surfboards, must be checked as hold luggage, and additional charges may apply for their transport.

Do you already know how to pack your KLM carry-on?

Traveling with KLM becomes more comfortable when you're well-prepared and aware of the rules regarding carry-on luggage. Key information to remember includes the weight and size limits for carry-on baggage depending on your travel class, the rules for carrying liquids and other items, and the best practices for packing and storing your luggage on board.

Planning ahead is essential to avoid additional fees and stress at the airport. Preparing your carry-on according to KLM's guidelines and organizing its contents practically and efficiently can significantly enhance your travel comfort. Remember to keep the most important items easily accessible and make the best use of the available space on board.

Carry-on baggage rules may change, so always check the latest information on KLM's website before each trip. This helps avoid surprises and ensures a smooth and well-organized journey. Regardless of your destination, following the carry-on baggage rules will help you start your journey smoothly and enjoy every moment on board.