LH · Germany · Full-service

Lufthansa Personal Item Size

Exact personal item rules for Lufthansa, verified against the airline's own published policy on 2026-04-14.

Quick answer

Yes, a standard backpack, tote, or laptop bag fits as a personal item on Lufthansa as long as it measures under 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9" (40 x 30 x 10 cm) and fits fully under the seat in front of you.

On Basic Economy fares, the personal item may be the ONLY bag you are allowed to bring on board without paying extra, so size matters.

Personal Item

Max dimensions (in)
15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9"
Max dimensions (cm)
40 x 30 x 10 cm
Included
Yes, free on every fare
Basic economy
Often personal item only

A small handbag or laptop bag that fits under the seat.

Carry-On (for context)

Max dimensions (in)
21.7 x 15.7 x 9.1"
Max dimensions (cm)
55 x 40 x 23 cm
Fee
Free
Full baggage policy

Does your bag count?

Common bag types compared against the Lufthansa personal item limit. Sizes are typical retail dimensions and vary by brand.

Bag type Typical size On Lufthansa
Standard backpack
Everyday daypack, laptop backpack
 18 x 13 x 8" Too big
Tote bag
Canvas or leather tote
 15 x 14 x 5" Too big
Laptop bag
Messenger or slim briefcase
 16 x 12 x 4" Too big
Small duffel
Gym or weekender
 18 x 11 x 11" Too big
Purse
Handbag or crossbody
 12 x 10 x 5" Too big
Under-seat roller
Mini wheeled bag
 16 x 14 x 8" Too big

Frequently asked questions

What is the Lufthansa personal item size limit?

Lufthansa allows a personal item up to 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9" (40 x 30 x 10 cm). A small handbag or laptop bag that fits under the seat.

Does a backpack count as a personal item on Lufthansa?

Not always. A typical 18 x 13 x 8 inch backpack is larger than the Lufthansa published personal item limit of 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9", so it may be treated as a carry-on. Slimmer laptop backpacks often still fit. Measure yours before flying.

Does Lufthansa weigh personal items?

Personal item weight is not published by Lufthansa and is rarely enforced at the gate for US domestic flights. On international routes, especially with codeshare partners, agents may weigh bags, so keep your personal item reasonable in weight.

What if my personal item is too big for Lufthansa?

If your bag exceeds 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9", a gate agent can ask you to place it in the sizer. If it does not fit, you may need to pay a carry-on or checked bag fee. On Basic Economy fares, an oversized personal item is the most common cause of surprise fees.

Can I bring a personal item plus a carry-on on Lufthansa Basic Economy?

Often no. Lufthansa restricts Basic Economy passengers to a personal item only on many routes, with full-size carry-ons either banned or charged as a paid add-on. Read the fare rules at booking before you pack.

Need the full Lufthansa baggage policy?

Checked bag fees, overweight and oversize charges, special items, and basic economy rules for Lufthansa, all in one place.

Full Lufthansa baggage policy Lufthansa carry-on rules Lufthansa checked bag fees Generate a packing list

Flying Lufthansa out of these airports?

Check terminal layouts, connection times, and layover tips for major Lufthansa hubs and focus cities.

Lufthansa head-to-head comparisons

In-depth comparisons between Lufthansa and another carrier, covering bags, seats, on-time performance, routes, and loyalty.

Helpful guides

Bag picks and fee tactics for your Lufthansa flight.

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Last verified 2026-04-14 against the official Lufthansa policy at https://www.lufthansa.com/us/en/carry-on-baggage . Airlines change their rules without notice, so always confirm with your carrier before flying.