What is Checked Baggage?

Checked baggage (also called checked-in baggage) is luggage you hand over to the airline at check-in or a baggage drop-off point. The airline is responsible for this luggage until it is returned to you at your destination. You’ll receive a baggage tag used to identify your luggage.

Allowed Dimensions and Weight

Each airline sets its own baggage limits. Typically:

  • Size Limit: up to 158 cm (sum of length + width + height)
  • Weight Limit: between 20-32 kg per bag
  • Pieces Allowed: 1-3 per passenger

Always confirm exact details directly with your airline.

Items Not Allowed in Checked Baggage

For security, the following items are prohibited:

  • Explosives, fireworks, flammable substances (e.g., alcohol over 70%, lighter fluids)
  • Chemical and toxic substances (e.g., poisons, caustic chemicals, solvents)
  • Pressurized containers (sprays, gases)
  • Power banks and certain electronics with batteries

Pack fragile or valuable items (e.g., electronics, jewelry, money, documents) in your hand luggage to avoid damage or loss.

Packing Tips

  • Secure fragile items with soft material.
  • Remove previous flight tags to prevent baggage misdirection.
  • Mark your baggage clearly with your contact details and distinctive identifiers (e.g., ribbons, stickers).
  • Weigh luggage beforehand to avoid excess baggage fees.

Non-Standard and Oversized Luggage

Declare large, fragile, or oversized items (e.g., bikes, skis, musical instruments) at least 48 hours before departure by contacting your airline or customer service. Such luggage may require additional fees.

Low-Cost Airlines

  • Typically charge extra fees for checked baggage.
  • Purchase checked baggage during booking to avoid higher fees at the airport.
  • Maximum weight per bag: 32 kg (no exceptions).
  • Weight limits cannot usually be combined or shared between passengers (except some airlines like EasyJet).

Traditional Airlines

  • Usually include at least one checked bag in ticket price (exceptions: KLM, Air France).
  • Limits vary by travel class and route; check specific airline conditions.

Special Rules for Liquids

  • Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml, totaling no more than 1 liter per passenger, stored in a clear plastic bag. Larger amounts must go into checked luggage.

Checking In at Prague Airport

Online Check-in

  • Complete check-in online via the airline’s website, print or download the boarding pass.
  • If carrying only hand luggage, proceed directly to security (Terminal 2) or passport control (Terminal 1).
  • Checked luggage must be dropped at the airline’s counter or a self-service bag drop.

Check-in Counters

  • Locate the check-in counters using departure boards.
  • Counters typically open 2 hours before departure and close 40 minutes before departure (verify specifics with airline).
  • Present your passport (or ID card for Schengen area travel) and flight ticket.

Self-Service Kiosks

  • Available in Terminal 1 and 2 departure halls.
  • Scan ticket or enter reservation details, select your seat, and print boarding pass and luggage tag.
  • Attach printed tags and drop luggage at counters.

Self-Service Bag Drop (Terminals 1 & 2)

  1. Scan boarding pass barcode.
  2. Confirm your flight and baggage details.
  3. Place luggage on belt.
  4. Confirm no prohibited items.
  5. Attach luggage tag.
  6. Take your luggage receipt.

Private Check-in Service

Exclusive check-in for flights from Terminal 2, including personalized assistance, lounge access, and individual security checks.

Retrieving Your Luggage

Collect luggage from baggage belts in the arrivals hall. Keep your baggage tag receipt until your luggage is safely collected.

Transfer Flights

  • Guaranteed connections (single reservation): Airlines usually transfer luggage automatically (exceptions apply, e.g., USA and Canada).
  • Separate tickets: You must collect and recheck luggage yourself.

Choosing Luggage

  • Opt for lightweight luggage to maximize content weight.
  • Hard-shell luggage is best for fragile items; soft luggage suits clothing and lighter items.
  • Use luggage with TSA-approved locks (marked with a diamond symbol) to allow airport security to inspect bags without damaging locks.

Prague Airport Facilities

  • Luggage Packing Service: Located in Terminal 1 (Entrance A) and Terminal 2 (Entrance D).
  • Self-Service Trolleys: Available free of charge throughout terminals.

Always monitor your luggage and keep it secure throughout your airport stay.

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