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KLM · Guitar

Own seat
Buy it a seat

KLM names guitars as too large for hand baggage. Book an extra seat with your own, by phone or chat.

You can buy it a seat on this airline.

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KLM rules

  • An instrument travels as hand baggage only if it is the size of regular hand baggage: 55 × 35 × 25 cm, up to 12 kg in Economy and Premium Comfort.
  • You may bring only a small under-seat bag with it, no other hand baggage.
  • A larger instrument, such as a guitar, is accepted only on an extra seat or in the hold.
  • Extra seat: instrument up to 45 kg and 140 cm high. On European flights on Embraer aircraft the limit is 122 cm, except cellos, which may be 140 cm high and 33 cm deep.
  • Your seat and the instrument's seat must be booked at the same time through the Customer Contact Centre.
  • In the hold it replaces one checked bag. Between 32 and 45 kg, or over 300 cm in total, needs a reservation at least 48 hours ahead. Over 45 kg is not carried.

Source: klm.com › Baggage › Special baggage. Checked 10 Nov 2026.

Before you leave for the airport
  • Measure the case and weigh it packed. Staff measure the case, never the instrument.
  • Check the fare. The cheapest fares often include only an under-seat bag.
  • Check who operates each leg. The operating airline's rule applies.
  • A seat for the instrument is booked by phone, often 48 hours or more ahead.
  • Photograph the instrument and case before you leave home.
  • Board as early as you can.