Navigating airline baggage policies can be a daunting task for travelers. SAS Airlines, a major Scandinavian carrier, offers a range of fare classes with varying luggage allowances and fees. Understanding these policies is crucial for a smooth travel experience and avoiding unexpected costs at the airport. This comprehensive guide delves into SAS Airlines' baggage fees, allowances, and special item policies to help you plan your journey with confidence.
SAS airlines baggage allowance and weight limits
SAS Airlines has structured its baggage allowances to cater to different traveler needs across various fare classes. The airline's policy is designed to balance passenger convenience with operational efficiency. Weight limits and size restrictions are in place to ensure safe and comfortable travel for all passengers.
For most SAS flights, the maximum weight limit for checked baggage is 23 kg (50 lbs) per piece. However, this can vary depending on your ticket type and destination. It's essential to check your specific allowance when booking your flight or in your travel itinerary.
The size limit for checked baggage is typically 158 cm (62 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height). Bags exceeding these limits may incur additional fees or require special handling.
Remember: Always check your specific ticket details for the most accurate baggage allowance information, as policies can vary based on route and fare class.
Carry-on luggage policies for SAS go light, SAS go, and SAS plus
SAS Airlines offers different carry-on allowances depending on your ticket type. Understanding these distinctions can help you pack efficiently and avoid surprises at the gate.
SAS go light: 1 under-seat item restriction
SAS Go Light is the airline's most basic fare option. Passengers traveling on this ticket type are allowed:
- 1 small personal item that fits under the seat in front of you
- Maximum dimensions: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches)
- No additional cabin bag allowance
This restrictive policy is designed for short trips or budget-conscious travelers who can pack light. If you need more space, you'll need to purchase additional baggage allowance or consider upgrading your ticket.
SAS go: cabin bag and personal item allowance
SAS Go offers more flexibility for carry-on luggage. Passengers on this fare can bring:
- 1 cabin bag to be placed in the overhead compartment
- 1 personal item to be placed under the seat in front of you
- Combined weight limit of 8 kg (17.6 lbs) for both items
This allowance is suitable for most short to medium-length trips, providing enough space for essentials and some extra items.
SAS plus: extended carry-on privileges
SAS Plus passengers enjoy the most generous carry-on allowance:
- 2 cabin bags for the overhead compartment
- 1 personal item for under the seat
- Combined weight limit of 18 kg (39.6 lbs)
This premium allowance is ideal for business travelers or those needing extra space for their journey.
Size and weight restrictions for carry-on items
Regardless of your ticket type, all carry-on items must adhere to specific size restrictions:
- Cabin bags: Max. 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.7 x 15.7 x 9.1 inches)
- Personal items: Max. 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches)
It's crucial to respect these limits to ensure your bags fit in the overhead bins or under the seat. Oversized items may need to be checked, potentially incurring additional fees.
Checked baggage fees and allowances by fare class
SAS Airlines' checked baggage policies vary significantly across fare classes. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right ticket for your needs and budget.
SAS go light: additional fees for all checked bags
SAS Go Light tickets do not include any checked baggage allowance. If you need to check a bag, you'll need to pay an additional fee. The cost varies depending on your route and when you add the baggage:
| Timing | Domestic/Scandinavian Flights | European Flights |
|---|---|---|
| Online (more than 22 hours before departure) | €20-25 | €30-35 |
| At the airport | €55-65 | €75-85 |
These fees are per bag, per one-way flight. It's clearly more economical to add baggage online in advance if you know you'll need it.
SAS go: first bag included, charges for extra pieces
SAS Go tickets include one checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs) at no additional cost. If you need to check a second bag, fees apply:
- Second bag (online): €30-40
- Second bag (airport): €55-75
Again, booking extra baggage online in advance can lead to significant savings.
SAS plus: two complimentary checked bags
SAS Plus passengers enjoy a more generous allowance:
- 2 checked bags included, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
- Additional bags can be purchased at the same rates as SAS Go
This allowance is particularly beneficial for longer trips or business travel where more luggage is often necessary.
Eurobonus member tier benefits on baggage allowances
SAS EuroBonus members can enjoy additional baggage benefits based on their tier status:
- Silver members: 1 extra bag (23 kg / 50 lbs) on SAS-operated flights
- Gold members: 1 extra bag (23 kg / 50 lbs) on SAS and Star Alliance flights
- Diamond members: 1 extra bag (32 kg / 70 lbs) on SAS and Star Alliance flights
These benefits can provide significant value for frequent SAS travelers, potentially saving hundreds of euros in baggage fees over time.
Special items and excess baggage charges
Traveling with special items or excess baggage requires careful planning and often incurs additional fees. SAS Airlines has specific policies for various types of special luggage.
Sports equipment handling: skis, golf bags, and bicycles
SAS allows sports equipment as part of your standard baggage allowance, provided it meets size and weight restrictions. However, some items may require special handling:
- Skis and snowboards: Counted as one piece of standard baggage
- Golf bags: Counted as one piece of standard baggage
- Bicycles: Require a special bike box and may incur additional fees
It's important to pre-register large sports equipment with SAS customer service to ensure proper handling and avoid issues at check-in.
Musical instruments transportation policy
SAS allows musical instruments as carry-on or checked baggage, depending on size:
- Small instruments (e.g., violins) can be carried on board if they fit in the overhead bin
- Larger instruments may need to be checked and may require a special handling fee
- Very large instruments (e.g., cellos) may require purchasing an extra seat
Always contact SAS in advance when traveling with musical instruments to understand the specific requirements and potential fees.
Overweight and oversized luggage surcharges
Bags exceeding standard weight or size limits incur additional fees:
- Overweight (23-32 kg / 50-70 lbs): €65-75 per bag
- Oversized (158-205 cm / 62-80 inches total dimensions): €75-85 per bag
Bags over 32 kg (70 lbs) or 205 cm (80 inches) may not be accepted as checked baggage and might need to be sent as cargo.
Pet travel fees and regulations
SAS allows pets to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on size:
- In-cabin pets: €55-80 per pet carrier
- Checked pets: €90-195 per pet carrier
Specific regulations apply, including required documentation and carrier specifications. Always inform SAS in advance when traveling with a pet.
Pro tip: When traveling with special items or excess baggage, always check with SAS customer service well in advance to avoid surprises and ensure smooth travel.
Online pre-booking vs. airport baggage fee comparison
Pre-booking your baggage allowance online can lead to substantial savings compared to paying at the airport. Here's a general comparison:
| Service | Online Pre-booking | Airport Fee |
|---|---|---|
| First Extra Bag (SAS Go) | €30-40 | €55-75 |
| Overweight Bag | Not available online | €65-75 |
| Sports Equipment | €40-50 | €55-65 |
The exact fees can vary based on your route and the specific item, but the trend is clear: pre-booking online almost always results in significant savings. For example, booking an extra bag online for a European flight could save you up to €35 compared to paying at the airport.
Moreover, pre-booking ensures that you have the baggage allowance you need, avoiding the stress of unexpected fees or having to repack at the check-in counter. It's a small step that can make your travel experience much smoother.
SAS baggage tracking system and lost luggage procedures
SAS Airlines employs a sophisticated baggage tracking system to minimize the risk of lost luggage. However, in the rare event that your bag doesn't arrive with you, SAS has established procedures to help reunite you with your belongings:
- Report missing baggage immediately at the SAS baggage service counter in the arrival hall.
- Fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with detailed information about your bag.
- Receive a reference number to track your case online.
- SAS will update you on the status of your bag and arrange delivery once it's located.
SAS typically covers essential items you may need to purchase while waiting for your delayed baggage, subject to certain conditions and limits. Keep all receipts for potential reimbursement.
To minimize the risk of lost luggage, always:
- Label your bags clearly with your name and contact information
- Remove old airline tags from previous flights
- Consider using a smart luggage tag for real-time tracking
By understanding SAS Airlines' baggage policies and planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother travel experience and avoid unexpected fees. Whether you're packing light with just a carry-on or need extra allowance for a longer trip, SAS offers options to suit various travel needs. Remember to always check your specific ticket details and pre-book any additional baggage requirements to make the most of your journey with SAS Airlines.