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Our Guide To Baggage Allowance For Swiss International Airlines


All details in this blog were accurate at the time of writing (August 2025). However, please double-check with your airline before travelling, as policies may change.

Travelling with Swiss International Airlines soon? Whether it’s a city break in Zurich or a long-haul adventure, it’s essential to understand your luggage allowance. Our simple guide covers everything from hand luggage to hold baggage, along with which suitcase is best suited for your trip.


Meet Swiss International Airlines

Swiss International Airlines (SWISS) is the national airline of Switzerland, based in Zurich and flying to over 100 destinations worldwide. As part of the Lufthansa Group and the Star Alliance network, it is recognised for its precision, efficiency, and welcoming service.

With a modern fleet, a focus on sustainability, and a choice of travel classes, SWISS makes every journey smooth and well-organised, especially when it comes to luggage.
 


Choosing The Right SWISS Travel Class For Your Journey

Whether you’re flying short-haul or long-haul, SWISS offers four distinct travel classes to suit your journey:

  • Economy Class: A comfortable option with meals, drinks, and entertainment on longer flights.
  • Premium Economy: Extra space, wider seats, and upgraded dining,  ideal for long-haul comfort.
  • Business Class: Fully reclining seats, premium meals, and lounge access for a smooth and restful journey.
  • First Class: The ultimate luxury, with fine dining, private suites, and dedicated service from airport to arrival.

Cabin Baggage Allowance: What You Can Take Onboard

Swiss offers generous cabin baggage options depending on your travel class:

  • Economy Class: One item of hand baggage

  • Business and First Class: Two items of hand baggage

Each cabin bag has a limit of 55 x 40 x 23 cm and must weigh no more than 8 kg.

Plus, in addition to your main bag, you can also bring one personal item. This could be a handbag or laptop bag, must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you, and measure a maximum of 40 x 30 x 10 cm.

 

Tripp Recommendation: 

Our Ultra Lite Cabin is a bestselling, ultra-lightweight case that meets SWISS size limits and glides effortlessly on four wheels. At the same time, the Holiday 8 Cabin offers a sleek, stylish design with extra internal organisation, all within the airline’s cabin allowance. Both collections feature built-in TSA locks, smooth handles, and durable hard shells to keep your belongings secure on board.



Hold Baggage: What You Need To Know

Hold baggage allowances vary depending on your route and travel class. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect:


European Flights

  • Economy Light: No checked baggage included
  • Economy Classic and Flex: One piece of hold baggage up to 23kg
  • Business Class: Two pieces of hold baggage, each up to 32kg

Intercontinental Flights

  • Economy Class: One piece up to 23kg
  • Premium Economy: Two pieces up to 23kg each
  • Business Class: Two pieces up to 32kg each
  • First Class: Three pieces up to 32kg each

Maximum dimensions for each checked bag must not exceed 158cm (length + width + height).

 

Tripp Recommendation:

Our Chic suitcase is a great all-rounder for holidays and city breaks, offering generous packing space in a strong yet lightweight design. For longer trips or extra room, World is spacious, durable and easy to handle. Both collections feature TSA locks, smooth wheels and tough shells to keep your belongings safe from check-in to arrival.



Additional Baggage Information

If you go over your baggage allowance, you may have to pay an extra fee. However, SWISS offers better rates if you add additional bags online before you fly. You can usually check in up to two extra bags per person, and a flat-rate charge may apply if your suitcase is overweight or oversized. For an estimate, it’s best to check the airline’s baggage calculator ahead of your journey.


Travelling With Infants & Children

If you’re flying with a child or infant, you are entitled to some additional baggage:

  • A fully collapsible pushchair or pram
  • One piece of checked baggage up to 23kg (except for Economy Light)

Ensure all items are clearly labelled and check them in as early as possible at the airport.

Sports Equipment & Special Baggage

You can bring sports equipment and musical instruments with you on your SWISS flight. These items may be included in your baggage allowance or incur an additional fee, depending on their size and weight. Larger items may require a separate seat or need to be checked into the hold. Check with SWISS before arriving at the airport to avoid any last-minute stress.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help you further, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about SWISS’ baggage restrictions.


Can I take a suitcase and a handbag on board Swiss International Airlines?

Yes, you may take one piece of cabin baggage and one personal item, such as a handbag or laptop case.


Is hold baggage included with Economy Light fares?

No, but you can add one or more bags for a fee when booking or afterwards via the airline’s website.


What is the cost of checking an extra bag?

Fees vary depending on your route and when you pay. It is usually cheaper to add baggage online before you fly, so make sure you check the SWISS site before you get to the airport.


Can I take my skis or sports equipment?

Yes, you can bring sports equipment on most flights. It may be included in your checked allowance or incur an additional fee.


Which suitcase size should I use for a 23kg allowance?

A medium or large suitcase is usually the best fit for a 23kg checked baggage allowance. It depends on how much you plan to pack. Medium is ideal for shorter trips or lighter travellers, while large offers extra space if you need more room. 


Ready To Fly With SWISS?

Travelling with SWISS is straightforward and enjoyable when you know what to expect. With clear baggage allowances across every class and flexible options for both cabin and hold luggage, packing is simple, especially with the right suitcase. Whether it’s a weekend break or a long-haul trip, choosing a suitcase that suits your journey helps make every stage feel effortless.


9th September 2025

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