A guide to hand luggage for flights from Chisinau as of the end of 2026: how to avoid unexpected charges when boarding

A backpack that was accepted without any problems on a previous flight does not guarantee an equally smooth experience on your next journey. Each airline sets its own limits, and a difference of just a few centimetres or one extra kilogram can turn free hand luggage into a significant additional fee charged directly at the boarding gate (Gate).

Whether you choose a direct flight to Rome, a direct flight to Paris or one of the many direct flights to Milan, London, Vienna or Istanbul, hand luggage rules vary depending on the airline and the fare booked. Therefore, before departing from Chisinau International Airport, it is essential to check the operator’s exact conditions.

1. Low-cost airlines: Wizz Air, FLYONE, HiSky and Pegasus

Low-cost airlines operate numerous direct flights from Chisinau to popular European destinations such as Rome, Milan, London, Paris and Istanbul. However, the basic luggage rule is strict: only one free item per passenger, which must fit completely under the seat in front. A handbag, laptop bag or camera cannot be carried separately and must be placed inside this backpack.

• The 40 × 30 × 20 cm standard: this is the free allowance offered by Wizz Air (maximum 10 kg), FLYONE (maximum 8 kg) and HiSky (maximum 8 kg).
• Pay attention to external elements: at FLYONE, the measuring frame (sizer) takes wheels, handles and side pockets into account. A flexible but overfilled backpack may be considered non-compliant.
• Pegasus Light fare: on international flights, it may include only one bag measuring 40 × 30 × 15 cm, with a maximum weight of 3 kg.

If, for example, you book a direct Chisinau–Rome flight or search for direct flights to Milan, do not assume that all airlines apply the same rules simply because the destination is the same.

2. Full-service airlines: Turkish Airlines, LOT, Lufthansa and TAROM

Traditional airlines generally offer more generous conditions, allowing a cabin trolley bag for the overhead compartment and one personal item under the seat. However, there are important exceptions depending on the fare class, selected route or aircraft operating the flight.

• Turkish Airlines and LOT Polish Airlines: generally allow a trolley bag measuring 55 × 40 × 23 cm (maximum 8 kg), plus one personal item, such as a small backpack, handbag or laptop bag.
• Pay attention to TAROM aircraft: the accepted size may depend on the aircraft operating the flight. On Boeing aircraft, the limit is 55 × 40 × 20 cm, while on ATR 72 aircraft it is reduced to 35 × 30 × 20 cm. The combined total weight must not exceed 8 kg.
• Differences between Lufthansa fares: the included baggage may vary depending on the package booked. Check whether your ticket includes only one personal item or also a cabin trolley bag weighing up to 8 kg.

These differences should also be checked when choosing a direct flight to Istanbul, a direct flight to Bucharest or a connecting flight to a more distant destination.

How to avoid problems when measuring and weighing your baggage

• Measure your backpack after filling it: the shape and dimensions of the bag may change after packing.
• Leave a safety margin: scales at home may show a slightly different weight from those at the airport.
• Include the wheels and handles in the measurements: airlines check the total external dimensions of the baggage.
• Keep valuable items under the seat: documents, money, electronics and medicines should remain in your personal backpack. If the flight is full, the cabin trolley bag may be transferred to the aircraft hold.
• Check the rules again before departure: the conditions and included services may change, even if you have previously travelled with the same airline.

Spending a few minutes checking the rules before departure can help you avoid unexpected costs, delays and unpleasant situations at the boarding gate.

On Zbor.md, you can compare flight options, check the services included in the fare and book simply and securely. If you have questions about baggage or travel conditions, our team provides the necessary support 24/7.