Is your (odd-sized) baggage ready for take-off?

In general, larger than usual or heavy bags may be considered odd-sized baggage. Or unusually shaped or fragile items. If your baggage falls under this category, you’ll need to check it in at the odd-size counter at Schiphol. And this counter has seen many weird and wonderful things over the years! From surfboards, hockey sticks and golf clubs to air fryers, buggies and tubs of paint, travellers come to the airport with all kinds of items that they want to take on the plane with them.

Most of the time, the odd-sized items that travellers bring to Schiphol are accepted at the odd-size counter. But not everything is permitted. If your suitcase or package exceeds 80 kg in weight or 3.5 metres in height, for example, it will need to be transported as cargo. So yes, baggage can sometimes to too odd sized for our baggage system. Wondering whether your baggage is (too) odd sized or not?

We want your bags to arrive intact and on time, and our baggage system to run smoothly. That’s why we have certain guidelines to take into account. Loose straps, for example, can cause baggage to become stuck and lead to damage to the system (or your bag). Another thing to consider is old baggage stickers with barcodes. If you leave these on your bags, our system may not recognise where to send your baggage. That could mean delayed baggage, which is not a great way to start your trip.

Use this handy checklist to ensure your bags and suitcases are baggage system-proof:

• Remove old baggage tags and stickers before checking in your bags.
• Check whether the material of your bag is sturdy and intact before the flight; you want to prevent your bag from tearing open and losing your belongings.
• Tuck any straps away and use a (flight) cover for your backpack if you want to check it in as regular baggage.
• When using the self-service baggage drop-off, push any suitcase handles down.
• Be mindful of anything extra you attach to your bag – external pouches or keychains are prone to getting caught.

If you still have questions or doubts about whether your baggage is odd sized or not or whether you’ll need to pay extra for it, please check with your airline. Rules can vary depending on who you're flying with.