Yes, Lufthansa allows passengers to add luggage to their booking after purchase through their website, app, or customer service.
Understanding Lufthansa’s Baggage Policy
Lufthansa’s baggage policy is designed to cater to a wide range of travelers, from light packers to those needing extra baggage space. The airline typically includes at least one piece of checked luggage in many fare types, but this varies depending on the ticket class, route, and frequent flyer status. For many travelers, the question isn’t just about what’s included initially but whether it’s possible to add luggage after booking.
The answer is yes. Lufthansa provides flexible options for adding luggage post-booking. This flexibility is essential for travelers who may underestimate their baggage needs or have last-minute changes in plans. The airline’s system allows passengers to upgrade their baggage allowance easily before departure, ensuring convenience and avoiding hefty airport fees.
How To Add Luggage To Your Lufthansa Booking After Purchase
Adding luggage after purchasing your ticket is straightforward and can be done through several channels:
1. Online via Lufthansa’s Website
The most convenient method is logging into your booking on the official Lufthansa website. By entering your booking reference and last name, you can access your reservation details. From there:
- Select the option to manage your booking.
- Navigate to the “Add Baggage” section.
- Choose the number of additional bags you want to purchase.
- Complete payment using a secure gateway.
Once completed, your updated baggage allowance will be reflected in your booking confirmation email.
2. Using the Lufthansa Mobile App
Lufthansa’s mobile app mirrors the website functionality and adds convenience for travelers on the go. After logging in:
- Access your current bookings.
- Select “Manage Booking” and then “Add Baggage.”
- Follow prompts to select and pay for extra bags.
The app also sends push notifications confirming successful additions.
3. Contacting Lufthansa Customer Service
If you prefer speaking with an agent or encounter issues online, calling Lufthansa’s customer service is an option. Agents can assist with adding luggage and ensure all details are correctly updated in your reservation.
The Cost of Adding Luggage After Booking
Prices for additional baggage vary based on several factors:
- Route: Domestic flights within Germany often have lower fees compared to international long-haul flights.
- Weight and Size: Standard checked bags usually have set fees, but overweight or oversized bags incur higher charges.
- Timing: Adding luggage online before departure tends to be cheaper than paying at the airport counter.
- Fare Type: Business class or higher-tier passengers may get complimentary or discounted extra baggage options.
Here’s a snapshot of typical additional baggage fees on common routes:
| Route Type | Additional Bag Fee (Online) | Additional Bag Fee (At Airport) |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic (Germany) | €15 – €25 per bag | €30 – €40 per bag |
| Europe Flights | €25 – €45 per bag | €50 – €70 per bag |
| Intercontinental Flights (e.g., USA) | $70 – $100 per bag | $100 – $150 per bag |
Booking extra bags online not only saves money but also reduces stress at check-in counters.
Baggage Allowance by Ticket Class and Frequent Flyer Status
Lufthansa categorizes its fares into Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class — each with differing free baggage allowances:
- Economy Class: Usually includes one free checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Premium Economy: Often two free checked bags up to 23 kg each.
- Business Class: Typically two checked bags allowed up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each.
- First Class: Generally three checked bags allowed up to 32 kg each.
Frequent flyer members with status in Miles & More may enjoy additional free baggage allowances or discounts when adding extra bags after purchase.
Baggage Weight Limits Explained
Each piece of checked luggage must adhere to weight restrictions — exceeding these limits results in overweight charges that can be substantial. For example:
- Bags weighing between 23-32 kg incur an overweight fee.
- Bags over 32 kg are often not accepted as standard checked luggage and might need special handling or cargo shipment arrangements.
It pays off to weigh your bags carefully before heading to the airport or adding extra pieces online.
The Benefits of Adding Luggage Early vs At The Airport Counter
Adding luggage early through online channels offers several advantages over paying at airport counters:
- Savings: Online rates are significantly lower than counter fees.
- Smoother Check-In: Prepaid baggage means faster check-in processes without surprises.
- Avoid Stress:If you wait until arrival at the airport, lines can be long and fees higher due to last-minute purchases.
- Easier Budgeting:You know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay for baggage services rather than facing unexpected costs during travel.
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This makes managing luggage additions well before departure a smart move for savvy travelers.
Lufthansa’s Special Baggage Options You Can Add Post-Purchase
Beyond standard checked bags, Lufthansa offers options that can also be added after purchasing tickets:
Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments
Travelers carrying bulky sports gear like skis, golf clubs, or musical instruments often need special handling. These items usually require an additional fee but can be arranged ahead via online management tools or customer service calls.
Cargo Shipments for Oversized Items
For extremely large items exceeding regular size limits (e.g., bicycles), Lufthansa Cargo services provide specialized transport options booked separately from passenger tickets but coordinated with flight schedules.
Cabin Baggage Upgrades for Certain Fare Types
While cabin baggage rules are strict, some fare upgrades allow larger carry-ons or additional personal items — these upgrades can sometimes be purchased post-booking if available.
The Process Timeline: When Can You Add Luggage After Purchase?
Lufthansa permits adding luggage from the moment you complete your flight booking until shortly before departure — typically up until a few hours prior:
- You can add extra pieces anytime online after ticket purchase until around 23:59 local time one day before departure on most routes.
Airport counters close earlier for baggage check-in — so last-minute additions at the airport risk missing deadlines or paying premium fees.
For tight schedules or complex itineraries involving codeshare flights operated by partner airlines, it’s advisable to confirm specific deadlines directly with Lufthansa customer service.
The Impact Of Adding Luggage On Your Boarding Pass And Check-In Process
Once additional luggage is added successfully:
- Your boarding pass will reflect updated baggage allowances when you check-in online or at kiosks.
- Lufthansa staff will tag all paid-for pieces during drop-off without hassle if prepaid online.
- If you add bags at airport counters instead, expect longer wait times as agents process payments and update records manually.
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Properly managing these steps ensures a smooth journey without surprises when dropping off suitcases.
The Role Of Third-Party Booking Platforms In Adding Luggage Post-Purchase
Many travelers book Lufthansa flights via third-party websites like Expedia or Kayak. In such cases:
- You might need to add luggage either through those platforms’ manage booking sections or directly on Lufthansa’s website using your ticket number and name.
- Lufthansa recommends managing ancillary services like extra baggage directly on their site whenever possible for accuracy and real-time updates.
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If confusion arises about where/how to pay for added bags post-booking through third parties, contacting Lufthansa support clarifies next steps quickly.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Adding Luggage After Ticket Purchase
Travelers sometimes make mistakes that could cost time and money when adding luggage late:
- Add extra bags too close to departure time — risking inability to process additions before check-in closes.
- Miscalculate weight limits leading to unexpected overweight charges at the airport counter despite pre-purchasing standard bags.
- Treating partner airline segments separately without confirming shared baggage policies causing mismatched allowances on connecting flights.
- Ignoring confirmation emails after adding luggage online — always verify updated e-tickets reflect new allowances correctly before travel day!
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Planning ahead prevents headaches later on.
Key Takeaways: Can You Add Luggage To A Lufthansa Booking After Purchase?
➤ Luggage can be added after booking via the Lufthansa website.
➤ Additional baggage fees depend on route and fare type.
➤ Adding luggage early often saves money compared to airport rates.
➤ Changes can be made up to a few hours before departure.
➤ Contact customer service if you encounter issues online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you add luggage to a Lufthansa booking after purchase online?
Yes, you can add luggage to a Lufthansa booking after purchase through their official website. By logging into your reservation with your booking reference and last name, you can select additional baggage options and complete payment securely.
Is it possible to add luggage to a Lufthansa booking after purchase using the mobile app?
Lufthansa’s mobile app allows passengers to add luggage to their booking after purchase. Simply access your current bookings, choose “Manage Booking,” then “Add Baggage,” and follow the prompts to pay for extra bags conveniently on the go.
Can I add luggage to a Lufthansa booking after purchase by contacting customer service?
If you have trouble adding luggage online or prefer assistance, you can contact Lufthansa customer service. Agents will help you add extra baggage to your booking and ensure all updates are correctly reflected in your reservation.
Are there any restrictions when adding luggage to a Lufthansa booking after purchase?
When adding luggage after purchase, fees and allowances depend on factors like route, ticket class, and frequent flyer status. It’s important to check Lufthansa’s baggage policy as additional bags must meet size and weight limits set by the airline.
How much does it cost to add luggage to a Lufthansa booking after purchase?
The cost of adding luggage varies based on your flight route and baggage size or weight. Domestic flights within Germany typically have lower fees than international long-haul flights. Prices are displayed during the online or app checkout process before payment.
The Final Word – Can You Add Luggage To A Lufthansa Booking After Purchase?
Absolutely! You can add luggage after buying your ticket through multiple convenient channels—online via website or app, by phone with customer service, or even at airport counters if necessary (though costlier). Doing so early secures better prices and smoother check-in experiences while accommodating changing travel needs seamlessly.
With clear guidelines around costs based on routes and fare classes plus flexible timing windows allowing additions until just before departure day, Lufthansa makes it easy for passengers needing more than their original allowance. Just remember weight limits matter too!
Taking control of your baggage needs post-purchase avoids surprises at airports and ensures peace of mind throughout your journey—making every trip just a bit easier from lift-off onward.