Flying with SWISS feels very much like stepping into Switzerland itself. Everything is clean, efficient, and precise down to the smallest detail. As the national airline and a proud member of the Lufthansa Group, SWISS is known for its punctual flights, polished service, and smooth connections through Zurich.
Still, even with all that Swiss perfection, there is one area where travelers often get caught off guard. The baggage rules. I remember flying to Zurich for a ski trip with SWISS. The boarding process was calm and organized until a gate agent asked me to place my carry on in the baggage sizer. It did fit, but just barely, and that quick test reminded me of how strict European airlines can be with their measurements and weight limits.
That is the reason this guide exists. We are going to cover everything you need to know about SWISS baggage policy. From what you can bring into the cabin to checked baggage allowances, rules for personal items, sports gear, and even smart tips to avoid paying extra at the airport. By the end you will know exactly how to pack for your next flight with SWISS and enjoy a stress free start to your journey.
SWISS carry on allowance
Economy Class
Passengers in economy are allowed one cabin bag. The maximum size is 55 × 40 × 23 cm, including wheels and handles, and the weight limit is 8 kilograms. In addition, you may bring one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or slim backpack that fits under the seat in front of you.
Premium Economy
Premium economy passengers also get one cabin bag of the same size, 55 × 40 × 23 cm, and the same weight limit of 8 kilograms. The main difference is that you usually enjoy a little more flexibility overall, since your ticket also includes two checked bags.
Business Class
Business travelers can bring two cabin bags, each up to 55 × 40 × 23 cm and each weighing no more than 8 kilograms. You also get one personal item. This is helpful if you like to separate work items from clothes or if you are on a longer trip.
First Class
In first class, the rules are the same as business when it comes to cabin bags. You may bring two cabin bags up to 8 kilograms each, plus a personal item. The difference comes with checked baggage, where first class passengers receive the most generous allowance.
A quick note
SWISS is known to be fairly strict about both size and weight, especially on flights within Europe. It is always a good idea to weigh your bag before you leave home and make sure it fits comfortably into the airline sizer.
SWISS personal item rules
SWISS allows every passenger to bring one personal item in addition to the main cabin bag. This personal item should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Common examples include a handbag, a laptop bag, a slim backpack, or a camera case.
The general guideline is about 40 × 30 × 15 cm, but the main factor is whether it can slide comfortably under the seat. As long as your bag looks compact and manageable, staff will usually allow it without question.
For economy and premium economy passengers, the personal item is especially useful since you only get one main cabin bag. Business and first class passengers also receive just one personal item, even though they are allowed two cabin bags.
A packing tip
Keep your essentials in the personal item. Your passport, headphones, charger, a snack, and any valuables should always be stored there. That way, if the cabin is crowded and your main bag gets gate checked, you still have everything you need for the flight.
SWISS checked baggage rules
Economy Light
This is the most basic fare and it does not include any checked baggage. You only get your cabin allowance. If you want to check a suitcase, you need to pay extra.
Economy Standard and Economy Flex
These fares include one checked bag up to 23 kilograms with maximum dimensions of 158 cm when you add length, width, and height. This is the classic allowance for most European carriers.
Premium Economy
With premium economy you get two checked bags, each up to 23 kilograms and within the 158 cm size limit. This is especially handy for longer trips where one suitcase simply is not enough.
Business Class
Business passengers can check in two bags, each weighing up to 32 kilograms. The same 158 cm size rule applies. This allowance makes a big difference for business travelers carrying heavy items or people taking long international journeys.
First Class
First class travelers enjoy the most generous baggage allowance on SWISS. You can check in three bags, each up to 32 kilograms. For anyone moving abroad or traveling with family, this can be a real advantage.
Extra baggage and fees
If your suitcase exceeds the weight or size limits, SWISS applies additional fees. These are usually lower if you purchase extra allowance online before the flight rather than at the airport counter.
Travel tip
Attach a unique tag, ribbon, or strap to your bag. At Zurich Airport especially, you will see rows of nearly identical black suitcases on the belt. A splash of color will save you time and confusion.
SWISS special items
Sports equipment
Switzerland is home to skiing, snowboarding, and mountain sports, so it is no surprise that SWISS handles sports gear often. Items like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, or diving equipment can usually be checked as part of your normal baggage allowance as long as they fit within the weight and size limits. Oversized or heavier equipment may come with an extra charge, and some items need advance booking. Bicycles must be packed in a bike box or case.
Musical instruments
Smaller instruments such as violins, flutes, or guitars can travel in the cabin if they fit within the carry on dimensions. Larger instruments can be checked in, but if you want to keep them in the cabin, you can buy an extra seat so they stay safe next to you.
Strollers and car seats
Families can bring a stroller and a car seat free of charge in addition to their baggage allowance. Foldable strollers can usually be taken all the way to the aircraft door and collected at arrival.
Pets
Cats and small dogs are welcome in the cabin if they fit into an airline approved carrier under the seat in front of you. The combined weight of pet and carrier is usually limited to around 8 kilograms. Larger animals travel in the cargo hold. Reservations for pets should always be made in advance since numbers per flight are limited.
Medical equipment and wheelchairs
SWISS accepts wheelchairs, mobility aids, and medical devices free of charge. They recommend informing the airline in advance so ground staff can provide proper assistance at the airport and during boarding.
Tips for avoiding extra fees
Nobody wants to start a trip to Switzerland with a surprise baggage charge. SWISS is known for being precise and consistent, so it pays to be prepared.
1. Choose the right fare from the start
Economy Light tickets look cheap, but they do not include a checked bag. If you know you will need one, compare the price difference with Standard or Flex fares. Often, paying a little more at booking is cheaper than adding a bag later.
2. Weigh and measure your bags
SWISS agents really do check. A carry on bag must be under 8 kilograms and fit within 55 × 40 × 23 cm. Investing in a small luggage scale saves a lot of stress at the airport.
3. Buy extras online
If you know you will need another bag or if your suitcase might be overweight, add it through the SWISS website or app before you fly. The online price is usually lower than what you would pay at the airport counter.
4. Use packing cubes and compression bags
Compression cubes can be a lifesaver when you want to maximize your 23 kilogram checked bag allowance. They make bulky clothes much easier to fit and keep things tidy.
5. Wear your heavy clothing
Switzerland is famous for cold weather. If you are flying with a coat, boots, or thick sweaters, wear them onto the plane instead of packing them. This frees up space and helps keep your bag under the limit.
6. Keep essentials in your personal item
On crowded flights, cabin space can fill up quickly, and SWISS staff may ask to gate check carry on bags. If that happens, you will be glad you packed your passport, headphones, snacks, and valuables in your personal item.
Travel gear picks for SWISS passengers
Packing for SWISS is all about precision. Their rules are clear, but they are also strict, so having the right luggage and accessories makes a huge difference. These products fit their size and weight limits and are favorites among frequent flyers.
1. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry On
This suitcase fits neatly within SWISS’s 55 × 40 × 23 cm carry on limit. It is lightweight, sturdy, and the spinner wheels roll smoothly through Zurich Airport. Perfect for economy passengers who only get one cabin bag.
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2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Compact Underseat Bag
A smart choice for your personal item. It slides under the seat easily and holds essentials like your laptop, documents, and snacks. It also has a strap so you can attach it to your main suitcase handle while moving through the airport.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
3. BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are always useful, but with SWISS’s strict weight rules, compression cubes are a lifesaver. They keep your bag organized and let you squeeze more into less space, especially for winter clothes.
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4. Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack
This backpack makes an excellent personal item. It is compact, lightweight, and doubles as a daypack when you arrive at your destination. Great for carrying electronics, a water bottle, and in flight essentials.
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5. Samsonite Winfield 3 Large Checked Luggage
If you are flying business or first class and get two or three checked bags, this suitcase is a perfect choice. It is tough, roomy, and designed to handle the 32 kilogram allowance.
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6. GB Pockit+ All City Stroller
Families traveling with SWISS will appreciate how compact this stroller is. It folds down small enough for easy handling and is accepted by SWISS as a baby item, making family travel much easier.
👉 Check it out on Amazon
These items will keep you comfortably within SWISS baggage rules and make your travel experience smoother from start to finish.
Frequently asked questions about SWISS baggage
Does SWISS weigh carry on bags?
Yes. SWISS is known for being strict about the 8 kilogram carry on weight limit. Cabin crew or gate staff may ask you to weigh your bag before boarding.
What happens if my carry on is slightly oversized?
If your bag does not fit in the 55 × 40 × 23 cm sizer, staff will likely require you to check it. On busy flights, even compliant bags may be gate checked once overhead bins fill up.
Are duty free purchases included in my allowance?
No, duty free bags are separate. You may bring them onboard in addition to your carry on and personal item.
Can I bring food or snacks on a SWISS flight?
Yes, you may bring your own food as long as it follows airport security rules. Liquids over 100 ml will not pass security, but solid snacks like sandwiches are fine.
What are SWISS’s rules for liquids?
SWISS follows European Union rules. Liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less, all placed inside a single clear one liter resealable bag.
Can I bring sports equipment on SWISS?
Yes, skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and other sports gear are accepted. If they fit within your checked baggage allowance, they are treated as a normal bag. Larger or heavier gear may cost extra, so book ahead.
Does SWISS allow pets in the cabin?
Small cats and dogs under about 8 kilograms including their carrier can travel in the cabin. Larger pets must go in the hold. Reservations for pets are required in advance.
What happens if I connect with another Lufthansa Group airline?
If your journey includes flights with SWISS and a partner such as Lufthansa or Austrian Airlines, the baggage rules of the most significant carrier usually apply. Always check your booking for details.
Conclusion
Traveling with SWISS is usually smooth and efficient, but you need to pay close attention to their baggage rules. For cabin bags, the size limit is 55 × 40 × 23 cm with a strict weight limit of 8 kilograms in economy and premium economy. Business and first class passengers can bring two cabin bags, each within the same limits. Checked baggage allowances vary by fare, ranging from no checked bag in Economy Light to three bags of 32 kilograms each in first class.
Special items such as skis, musical instruments, or strollers are well covered, but most of them require advance booking if they are oversized. Pets are welcome both in the cabin and in the hold as long as you follow the carrier’s requirements.
The most important thing to remember with SWISS is preparation. Weigh your bags before you leave, use packing cubes to make the most of your space, and purchase extras online ahead of time to save money. A little planning ensures you will not face any unpleasant surprises at the gate or check in counter.
So whether you are flying to Zurich for a ski holiday, a business trip, or simply to enjoy Swiss chocolate and mountain views, these baggage rules will help you pack smart and travel with confidence on SWISS International Air Lines.
Horace Dupuy is a seasoned traveler and luggage reviewer who has spent years flying with both major and regional airlines across the United States and abroad. His first-hand travel experience has taught him exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to carry-on rules, baggage fees, and packing strategies.
At CarryOnSizes.com, Horace combines personal travel knowledge with in-depth research to provide accurate, up-to-date guides for travelers who want to fly stress-free. When he is not writing about luggage, you will probably find him exploring new destinations with only a compact backpack in tow.