SAS carry on rules

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) Carry On & Baggage Rules [2025]

by

If you’ve flown anywhere around Scandinavia, you’ve probably spotted that sleek navy-blue tail with “SAS” on it. That’s Scandinavian Airlines — basically the team effort of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden all rolled into one airline. They’re kind of like the Avengers of the Nordic skies, minus the capes and laser beams.

SAS is super popular for quick hops across Europe, but also does those longer hauls to the U.S. and Asia. Here’s the catch though: their baggage rules are not one-size-fits-all. What you get in SAS Go (their economy option) can be very different from SAS Plus or SAS Business. And don’t even get me started on the sports gear policies — let’s just say if you’re packing skis or golf clubs, you’ll want to read the fine print.

I learned the hard way once when I thought I could just sneak a chunky backpack along with my carry on. Spoiler: SAS doesn’t play around. The gate agent gave me that look, and next thing you know, I’m paying extra kroner just to get my bag on board. Not fun.

So in this guide, I’ll break it all down — carry on rules, checked baggage, fees, and even tips for packing like a pro on SAS flights. Because nobody wants their travel budget eaten up by overweight bag charges.

SAS Carry On Allowance

Alright, let’s talk about the part that always causes a mini heart attack at the gate — carry on bags. SAS is pretty generous compared to some budget airlines, but the rules depend on which ticket you’ve got in your hand.

  • SAS Go (Economy): You get 1 carry on bag plus 1 personal item (like a handbag, small backpack, or laptop bag).

  • SAS Plus & SAS Business: Here’s where things get better. You can bring 2 carry on bags plus 1 personal item. Basically, you’re walking onto the plane looking like you’re moving houses.

Now for the nerdy details:

  • Carry on bag size limit: 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 9 in).

  • Personal item size limit: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 in).

💡 Pro tip: Both items have to fit either in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. And SAS flight attendants will check. I once saw a guy trying to push his oversized roller bag into the overhead like he was wrestling with a stubborn IKEA drawer. It didn’t end well.

For families: if you’re traveling with an infant, SAS usually allows you to bring essentials like a diaper bag in addition to your regular allowance. Which is a lifesaver because, let’s face it, traveling with kids means you’re basically carrying a mobile pharmacy.

SAS Carry On Weight Restrictions

Here’s where SAS gets a little strict — because it’s not just about the size of your bag, it’s also about how heavy it is. Trust me, those scales at the gate are not just for decoration.

  • SAS Go (Economy): Your carry on (plus personal item) can weigh up to 8 kg (17 lbs) in total. So if you’re the type who likes to sneak bricks of chocolate or four pairs of “just in case” shoes into your hand luggage… maybe rethink that.

  • SAS Plus & SAS Business: You get more wiggle room here. Both carry on bags together can weigh up to 8 kg each. That’s 16 kg (35 lbs) total, which is pretty solid for hand luggage.

💡 Reality check: SAS staff actually do check weight at busy gates, especially for long-haul flights. I’ve seen people pulled aside and forced to weigh their carry ons — cue the awkward “quickly put my laptop in my coat pocket so it doesn’t count” shuffle. Doesn’t always work.

So the golden rule? Pack smart and keep the heavy stuff in your checked luggage if you’ve got one. Or, if you’re traveling light, invest in a digital luggage scale (honestly one of my best Amazon purchases ever). It saves you from doing the embarrassing repacking dance at the check-in counter.

SAS Checked Baggage Rules

Checked baggage with SAS is where things really depend on your ticket type. It’s kind of like buying concert tickets — the more you pay, the better the perks.

  • SAS Go (Economy): On most European flights, checked baggage is not included unless you book a higher fare tier like “SAS Go Smart.” If you go with the cheapest “Light” ticket, it’s carry on only. For long-haul flights (like to the U.S. or Asia), you usually get 1 checked bag included.

  • SAS Plus: You’re treated a little better here. Typically, you get 1 or 2 checked bags depending on the route. Each bag can weigh up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

  • SAS Business: Now you’re living the dream. You usually get 2 checked bags included, and each can weigh up to 32 kg (70 lbs). That’s enough to bring your entire winter wardrobe and still have room for a box of Swedish cinnamon buns to take home.

Bag size limit: For all classes, the maximum size is 158 cm (62 in) total linear dimensions (length + width + height). That’s the standard for most airlines, so no surprises there.

💡 Traveler tip: If you’re flying within Scandinavia or Europe, always double-check your fare type before showing up with a giant suitcase. I’ve seen people at Copenhagen Airport who looked like they were ready to move house, only to find out their ticket didn’t cover checked baggage. Let’s just say the check-in counter fees hit harder than a shot of aquavit.

SAS checked baggage rules

SAS Excess Baggage Fees

Here’s the not-so-fun part: what happens if your bag eats too many meatballs and goes over the limit. SAS is polite but firm when it comes to excess baggage, and the fees can sting if you’re not prepared.

  • Overweight bags (23–32 kg / 50–70 lbs): If you’re in SAS Go or SAS Plus and your bag creeps past the 23 kg limit, you’ll pay an extra fee per bag. The price depends on your route — it’s cheaper within Europe, but for long haul it can climb fast.

  • Oversized bags (bigger than 158 cm / 62 in): Same story here. You’ll be charged for bags that look more like moving boxes than suitcases.

  • Extra bags: If your ticket only includes one checked bag but you decide to bring two (because those IKEA blankets were too hard to resist), you’ll need to pay for the extra piece.

💡 Traveler confession: I once tried to argue my case at Oslo Airport, saying, “But it’s only two kilos over!” Let’s just say the check-in agent didn’t care. SAS doesn’t do sympathy kilos. Either you pay the fee or you start pulling clothes out of your bag and wearing them like Joey in Friends.

The actual fees vary depending on whether you pay online ahead of time (always cheaper) or at the airport (always painful). My tip? If you know you’re going to overpack, just pre-pay for the extra baggage online. It hurts less when you don’t have to swipe your card in front of a line of impatient travelers.

SAS excess baggage fees

SAS Sports Equipment & Special Items

If there’s one thing SAS understands, it’s that Scandinavians love their sports. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, golfing, or cycling, there’s always someone lugging oversized gear to the check-in counter. Thankfully, SAS has pretty clear rules for this.

  • Ski & Snowboard Equipment: You can bring your skis or snowboard as checked baggage, but it counts toward your regular allowance. If it’s extra, you’ll need to pay a fee. Pro tip: SAS often has special deals for ski routes in winter, so double-check if your flight qualifies.

  • Golf Bags: Same deal as skis. If it’s within your allowance, you’re fine. Otherwise, cha-ching at the counter.

  • Bicycles: Bikes are accepted, but they need to be packed properly (box or bike bag). And yes, there’s a fee unless it replaces your standard checked bag.

  • Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments (like violins) can usually go as carry on if they fit within size and weight limits. Bigger ones (like cellos) need a seat of their own or to be checked as special baggage.

💡 Packing hack: I’ve seen travelers pack their skis and boots in one big ski bag and squeeze clothes around them. It’s genius because it saves space, but word of warning: SAS is still going to weigh it. If it’s over, it’s over — even if you argue that socks around skis shouldn’t count.

And just like with regular baggage, fees are cheaper if you pay online in advance. Show up at the airport without pre-booking your sports gear, and you might find yourself paying more than the rental cost of the equipment at your destination.

Tips for Travelers

Flying with SAS doesn’t have to feel like an Olympic sport — though sometimes wrestling your carry on into the overhead bin does. Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up (some the easy way, some the hard way):

  1. Upgrade smartly: If you’re traveling with more than one bag, sometimes paying a little extra for SAS Plus works out cheaper than paying overweight or extra baggage fees. Plus, you get lounge access and better food — so it’s basically a win-win.

  2. Pack for the season: Scandinavia in winter means heavy coats and boots. My hack? Wear the bulkiest items on the plane. You’ll be cozy, save weight in your suitcase, and avoid paying fees just because you packed three layers of wool sweaters.

  3. Invest in lightweight luggage: SAS is strict on weight. A heavy, clunky suitcase can steal 4–5 kilos of your allowance before you even pack a sock. Go for modern lightweight luggage (seriously, some of my best travel purchases ever).

  4. Pre-book everything: Extra bags, sports gear, even seats — it’s always cheaper online than at the airport. Consider it SAS’s way of rewarding the organized.

  5. Use packing cubes: I know, I sound like a travel YouTuber here, but they really do help. Especially when you’re trying to keep your stuff neat in case you have to unpack at the counter to shuffle weight around (we’ve all been there).

💡 Personal note: I once thought I could save time by checking in last minute with a too-heavy bag. Big mistake. I ended up doing the “airport shuffle” — moving shoes into my backpack, wearing two jackets, and stuffing snacks into my pockets. Trust me, plan ahead and you’ll save yourself the embarrassment.

 Suggested Gear for SAS

If you’re flying SAS, the right gear can save you from both stress and fees. I’ve rounded up a few traveler-tested Amazon finds that can make your trip a lot smoother:

1. Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Luggage (Carry-On)

This one’s lightweight but tough — perfect for SAS’s 8 kg carry on limit. The clamshell design keeps packing organized, and the spinner wheels make navigating Copenhagen or Stockholm airports a breeze.

  • Pros: Super durable, TSA-approved lock, stylish finish.

  • Cons: Slightly pricier than budget options.

2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Expandable Suitcase

A lightweight checked bag option. At just under 2.5 kg (5.4 lbs), it gives you more weight allowance for actual stuff. Travelers love this one for being practical without breaking the bank.

  • Pros: Extremely light, smooth wheels, durable fabric.

  • Cons: Fabric shell means it can scuff more easily.

3. Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

If you’d rather skip the suitcase, this backpack is a legend among travelers. Fits SAS’s carry on size limits, and the straps tuck away so it looks neat at check-in.

  • Pros: Comfortable to carry, lots of compartments, versatile for city + outdoor trips.

  • Cons: Can feel bulky if fully packed.

4. BAGAIL Packing Cubes (Set of 6)

Packing cubes are lifesavers when you need to keep weight balanced between carry on and checked bags. Plus, you don’t have to pull out your entire suitcase just to find socks.

  • Pros: Affordable, lots of color options, keeps clothes neat.

  • Cons: Once you use them, you’ll never want to pack without them.

5. Athletico Ski Boot Bag & Backpack

For the winter travelers heading to the slopes, this bag is a lifesaver. Designed for ski boots, helmet, and gear, and it fits within SAS’s sports equipment policy.

  • Pros: Dedicated compartments, padded straps, rugged build.

  • Cons: Too specific unless you’re actually skiing.

💡 Tip: Rotate gear depending on season. Heading to Oslo in winter? That ski bag’s a must. Just hopping between Stockholm and London? The Samsonite or Osprey will do the job perfectly.

FAQ: SAS Carry On & Baggage Rules

Q1: What is the carry on size limit for SAS?
The standard carry on size for SAS is 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 9 in). You can also bring a personal item like a handbag or laptop bag up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 in). Just remember — both items have to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Q2: How heavy can my SAS carry on be?
If you’re flying SAS Go, your carry on plus personal item together can weigh up to 8 kg (17 lbs). In SAS Plus and SAS Business, you can bring two carry ons (8 kg each) for a total of 16 kg (35 lbs).

Q3: Do SAS flight attendants actually weigh carry on bags?
Yes — especially on long haul routes. If your bag looks suspiciously heavy, don’t be surprised if they ask you to pop it on the scale. I’ve seen people pulled aside in Copenhagen and forced to shuffle items into their coat pockets.

Q4: What’s the checked baggage allowance on SAS?

  • SAS Go Light: No checked bags included.

  • SAS Go Smart & SAS Go long-haul: Usually includes 1 checked bag (23 kg).

  • SAS Plus: Typically 1 or 2 checked bags (23 kg each) depending on route.

  • SAS Business: 2 checked bags (32 kg each).

Always check your fare type before you pack, because not every SAS Go ticket includes a checked bag.

Q5: What happens if my bag is overweight?
If your checked bag is between 23–32 kg (50–70 lbs) and you’re not in Business Class, you’ll need to pay an overweight fee. And SAS doesn’t budge on this — even if you’re just 1 or 2 kilos over.

Q6: Can I bring duty free items on top of my carry on?
Yes, duty free bags are allowed in addition to your carry on allowance. Just don’t go wild and try to board with six bags of tax-free wine — the gate staff will give you side-eye.

Q7: Can I bring baby gear like a stroller or car seat?
Yes, SAS lets you check in 1 stroller and 1 car seat free of charge per child. You can also bring a diaper bag in addition to your carry on. For parents, that’s basically a survival kit on wheels.

Q8: What about sports equipment like skis or golf clubs?
SAS is super used to sports gear. Skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and even bikes can be checked in. If it fits your standard allowance, you’re good. If it’s extra, you’ll need to pay a fee. Pro tip: always book sports equipment online in advance — way cheaper than at the airport.

Q9: Can I take my musical instrument on board?
Small instruments like violins can count as a carry on if they fit within size and weight limits. Larger instruments like cellos either need to be checked as special baggage or you’ll have to buy them their own seat (yes, your cello gets a boarding pass too).

Q10: What if my carry on is too big at the gate?
If your bag doesn’t fit the sizer or is over the weight limit, SAS will check it into the hold. And yes, there’s usually a fee if your ticket doesn’t already include checked luggage. Moral of the story: don’t try your luck with oversized bags.

Q11: Can I bring liquids in my SAS carry on?
Yes, but the usual rules apply — liquids, gels, and creams must be in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less, and all containers must fit in a 1-liter transparent zip bag. Think travel-sized toothpaste, mini shampoo, and sadly, no giant bottle of lingonberry juice.

Q12: Does SAS allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, small cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and carrier is under 8 kg (17 lbs). Larger pets have to travel in the cargo hold. Just book early because SAS limits the number of pets per flight.

Q13: What about power banks and electronics?
Power banks and spare lithium batteries must go in your carry on, not checked baggage. Laptops, tablets, and phones are fine in either, though I recommend keeping them with you. Nothing worse than waiting for your bag in Oslo just to realize your laptop took a detour to Helsinki.

Q14: Can I pool baggage allowance with my travel partner?
Nope — SAS doesn’t let you combine or pool baggage allowance. Each traveler has to stick to their own limit. So sadly, you can’t shove your overweight bag onto your partner’s ticket and call it a day.

Q15: Does SAS offer priority baggage handling?
Yes — if you’re flying SAS Plus or SAS Business, your bags are usually tagged with priority labels so they show up on the carousel first. Although, full honesty? Sometimes they don’t. I’ve stood at Stockholm Airport watching my “priority” bag arrive last like it was taking a scenic tour of the baggage belt.

Conclusion

Flying with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is usually a smooth experience — clean planes, efficient staff, and that no-nonsense Scandinavian vibe that somehow makes boarding less chaotic than with other airlines. But when it comes to baggage rules, you really need to know what you’re working with.

The key takeaways? Check your fare type before you pack, because SAS Go Light can leave you high and dry with carry on only. Always keep an eye on the 8 kg carry on weight limit (seriously, they do check). And if you’re the sporty type hauling skis, golf clubs, or even a bike, pre-book online to save yourself a nasty surprise at the airport.

My personal rule of thumb: travel light when flying SAS. The more you streamline, the less chance you’ll end up sweating at the check-in counter, trying to wear three jackets just to get your bag under the weight limit. Trust me, it’s not a good look.

At the end of the day, SAS is traveler-friendly if you play by their rules. Plan ahead, pack smart, and you’ll avoid baggage fees that could otherwise buy you a couple of rounds of beers in Copenhagen or some fancy fika in Stockholm.

Leave a Comment