I've flown SWISS a few times, usually connecting through Zurich to places in Europe or farther afield, and their service always feels polished—efficient check-in, decent food, and that Swiss precision. But baggage rules can trip you up if you're not prepared, especially with their fare options like Light, Classic, and Flex. The SWISS Air Baggage Policy is straightforward once you break it down, using a mix of weight and piece systems depending on your route.  things haven't shifted dramatically from recent years, but always use their baggage calculator for your exact booking because fees and allowances vary.

Carry-On Baggage Rules: What You Can Bring On Board

Carry-on is pretty consistent across cabins. Economy and Premium Economy passengers get one main carry-on bag plus a personal item. The main bag maxes out at 55 x 40 x 23 cm (about 21.5 x 15.75 x 9 inches), including handles and wheels, and weighs no more than 8 kg (17-18 lbs).

Business and First Class get two of those main bags (still 8 kg each) plus the personal item.

The personal item—handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack—should fit dimensions like 40 x 30 x 10 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9 inches) and go under the seat.

I've found SWISS pretty strict on size, especially in Zurich, so measure before you go. Liquids follow the usual 100ml rule in a clear bag.

Checked Baggage Allowances: European and Short-Haul Routes

For flights within Europe, North Africa, or similar short routes, the SWISS Air Baggage Policy uses a weight system mostly.

Economy Light fares? No free checked bag—carry-on only unless you pay extra.

Classic and Flex Economy get one piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

Business Class allows two pieces, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs), total 64 kg.

First Class isn't common on these routes, but similar generous allowances.

Infants (under 2) usually get 23 kg checked plus a stroller or pram free.

Dimensions for each checked bag: total linear (length + width + height) up to 158 cm (62 inches). No single bag over 32 kg for safety.

Checked Baggage on Intercontinental and Long-Haul Flights

Long-haul routes (to/from Americas, Asia, etc.) often switch to a piece concept, which feels more generous for some.

Economy (non-Light) typically gets one piece up to 23 kg.

Premium Economy (if available on your route) might get two at 23 kg each.

Business: two pieces at 32 kg each (64 kg total).

First: three pieces at 32 kg each (96 kg total).

Some routes to Asia or Middle East vary slightly—Japan might allow two in Economy Basic, for example.

The SWISS Air Baggage Policy emphasizes using the online calculator—plug in your origin, destination, class, and fare for exact free allowance.

Excess Baggage Fees: What You'll Pay If You Go Over

Over your limit? Fees add up fast, so prepay online if possible—often cheaper.

For extra pieces: around 90 USD or equivalent for a second bag on transatlantic, more for third.

Overweight (23-32 kg on Economy): fixed fees per piece, often 100-200 USD.

Oversize (over 158 cm linear): another 200 USD or so.

On weight-system routes, per kg over is pricey, like 15-30 USD/kg depending on zone.

Prepaying extras in Manage Booking saves hassle and money.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

SWISS handles sports gear well under the SWISS Air Baggage Policy.

Golf bags, skis, bikes (properly boxed), surfboards—usually count as one piece if within limits, no extra free allowance though.

If it fits your checked quota, no charge; otherwise, fees apply.

Musical instruments: small ones in cabin if they fit, larger as checked or buy a seat.

Pets: cabin for small in carrier (fits under seat), cargo for larger—separate rules and fees.

Baggage for Infants, Children, and Families

Kids get adult allowances. Infants without a seat: 10-23 kg checked depending on fare, plus foldable stroller/pram free.

Gate-checking strollers is easy—tag at gate, pick up on arrival.

Families with multiple kids: plan ahead, as extras can rack up fees.

Tips from Real Flights with SWISS

Weigh everything at home—those 8 kg carry-on limits sneak up.

Use the baggage calculator early—it's accurate and saves surprises.

Prepay extras online—airport fees are higher.

Tag bags well, photo contents.

If status with Miles & More or Star Alliance, you often get extra free bags.

For connections, allowances usually follow the most significant carrier, but confirm.

I went back and added that Miles & More tip here because it helped me once—extra 23 kg free made a big difference on a shopping trip.

Is SWISS Air Baggage Policy Generous?

Compared to budget carriers, yes—especially Business and First with generous pieces. Economy Light is stingy (no checked free), but Classic/Flex are solid at 23 kg.

The piece system on long-haul helps avoid weight drama.

Overall, it's fair for a Star Alliance full-service airline—transparent, with good tools online.

 no major upheavals, but fares like Light keep pushing people to pay for basics.

Always check swiss.com for your specific route and ticket—rules can vary slightly by market.

Pack smart, and your SWISS flight will be smooth from the start.