SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules

SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - New SAS Carry On Size Limit Changes Starting January 2025

SAS Scandinavian Airlines is making changes to its carry-on baggage rules starting in January 2025. They're reducing the maximum allowed size of carry-on bags to 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm, which is about 22 x 16 x 9 inches. This includes everything—handles, wheels, and pockets—so travelers need to be mindful of that when choosing their bag. The weight limit remains the same at 8 kg, or approximately 17.6 lbs. It’s worth noting that this weight limit hasn’t changed since 2009, which some might find surprising.

They're keeping the allowance for a smaller personal item that can be stowed under the seat. The dimensions of this smaller item have also been specified as 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm, or around 16 x 12 x 6 inches.

While this might sound like a small change, SAS has a history of enforcing these policies strictly. You should anticipate that any non-compliant bags will result in fees, so make sure your luggage complies with the new rules to avoid any issues. Apparently, this change is being made to supposedly help with flight capacity and potentially simplify baggage handling on board. However, it remains to be seen if this will genuinely improve the experience of passengers or simply generate more revenue for the airline.


Come January 2025, SAS will be enforcing new, stricter carry-on baggage dimensions. Their new maximum allowance of 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm is a noticeable shift, particularly when you consider the weight restriction remains at 8 kg, a figure that's been in place since 2009. It's intriguing to observe how SAS's move reflects broader trends in the industry. Many European and Scandinavian carriers have moved towards tighter restrictions for cabin baggage, likely to ease boarding processes and foster consistency across different airline operations.

One could hypothesize that a key factor here relates to the inherent physics of aircraft design. Larger carry-ons, especially when numerous, potentially contribute to greater cabin pressure. This, in turn, may necessitate more sophisticated engineering, raising operational costs or perhaps complicating overall aircraft design and potentially influencing fuel economy. This could be one angle of the story - the weight reduction associated with smaller baggage impacts fuel efficiency. It's tempting to see these restrictions as a step towards lowering operating expenses as well as enhancing the overall experience for passengers and staff. The efficiency argument is interesting but, if one were being analytical, a few kilos of carry-on baggage on a transatlantic flight may only have marginal impact, if any, on fuel usage.

What is likely also a factor is that strict baggage policies often translate into reduced delays. Airlines that impose tight limitations are likely to experience somewhat improved punctuality in flights because the boarding process is optimized. This could also be argued as a positive, however it's hard to see significant improvements without changes in airline procedures and baggage handling infrastructure.

This shift towards more restrictive carry-on allowances may create a niche for luggage makers. It's conceivable that there will be more demand for ultralight designs, as passengers would be able to carry a wider range of essentials within the size and weight constraints, but they may have to factor in the cost of upgrading baggage. Whether or not these changes foster a more enjoyable experience for travelers is, as always, open to debate. The "simpler travel" argument is often used in this context, but whether the benefits outweigh the hassles associated with fitting belongings into smaller spaces is questionable.


It's worth observing that SAS's adjustments are arguably a reflection of how the airline industry adapts to meet changing travel demands. Whether other airlines will adopt this model remains to be seen, and whether these adjustments will lead to more robust industry standards will require further observation.

What else is in this post?

1. SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - New SAS Carry On Size Limit Changes Starting January 2025
2. SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - What Qualifies as a Personal Item Under SAS Updated Policy
3. SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - Pet Transport Rules For Small Cats and Dogs On SAS Flights
4. SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - SAS Weight Restrictions and Checked Baggage Allowances
5. SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - Essential Measurement Requirements for Wheels and Handles
6. SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - Changes to SAS Business Class Hand Luggage Allowances

SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - What Qualifies as a Personal Item Under SAS Updated Policy

SAS's new carry-on policy, effective January 2025, brings a clearer definition of what constitutes a "personal item." Essentially, this is your smaller, under-seat bag. Think of a purse, laptop bag, or similar sized item. While the airline allows one personal item alongside your main carry-on, it can't exceed specific dimensions: 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm. It's a relatively compact size, forcing travelers to carefully consider what they truly need for their trip.

The rationale for this restriction is likely two-fold. First, it's a strategy to maximize cabin space and potentially improve boarding efficiency. Second, it aligns with a broader trend among airlines to tighten carry-on rules. This move raises the question whether it's ultimately beneficial for the passenger experience or a revenue generator.

It's important to note that certain items are excluded from this personal item restriction. This includes things like assistive devices or coats. These won't be counted towards the limit, helping ensure those with specific needs aren't penalized.

While some travelers may find the new restrictions inconvenient, they potentially signal a shift in how airlines manage baggage and ultimately could lead to quicker boarding and potentially a more seamless travel experience. This, of course, depends on how these rules are implemented and enforced and whether it reduces actual delays and the bottlenecks in the process. If travelers don't adhere to the new sizes, expect to pay.

The new SAS personal item rules will undoubtedly influence travel habits. How this plays out with other airlines is still uncertain but if travelers don't feel the benefits outweigh the potential hassle of having to adjust their carry-on habits, this policy could be unpopular.

Regarding the specifics of what qualifies as a "personal item" within SAS's updated carry-on policy, we find a few intriguing aspects. The defined dimensions of 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm are explicitly intended to ensure the item fits snugly under the seat in front of you. While this might seem like a minor detail, it has implications for passenger comfort and potentially, legroom, during the flight. It’s worth considering the role this plays in the overall experience, particularly on longer or fuller flights.

It’s also important to consider that these seemingly arbitrary dimensions are not just about passenger convenience. From a safety standpoint, strictly defined baggage sizes help prevent obstructions in emergency exits. Oversized items can indeed hinder rapid evacuations, which is why airlines implement these policies, albeit not always to passenger's enthusiasm. This is a trade-off that often goes unnoticed.

In terms of operational efficiency, studies have suggested that stricter cabin baggage policies may correlate with a notable increase in the number of on-time departures. The logic is relatively simple - streamlined boarding processes can contribute to minimizing delays. Whether this holds in the specific case of SAS's policy changes will require closer observation.

One of the more thought-provoking points is the long-standing weight limit for both carry-on bags and personal items – 8 kg – which has remained unchanged since 2009. It begs the question: has there not been significant advancement in material science that could yield a new generation of luggage? Perhaps we’ll see novel lightweight materials or designs in the future as the market adapts to these changes.

Furthermore, many airlines are discovering that a significant portion of operational costs is associated with handling and managing baggage. By discouraging oversized bags, airlines potentially achieve some cost reductions related to logistics and storage, which, theoretically, could lead to more attractive ticket prices for customers.

It’s interesting to consider that these smaller personal item policies don’t just impact occasional travelers. Frequent flyers, who often pack with meticulous precision, have indicated that adapting to these regulations reduced travel-related stress, despite the initial adjustments. It seems that a well-defined system can actually improve the experience for travelers.

The move by SAS aligns with a wider trend across the airline industry—a trend towards lighter and smaller luggage regulations. This in turn prompts innovation from manufacturers of luggage and accessories who adapt their products to these constraints.

One obvious factor here is overhead bin space. With seating configurations designed to maximize capacity, having a smaller personal item contributes to better utilization of available space in the cabin, reducing potential bottlenecks and frustrations for other passengers.

SAS’s policy alterations are a compelling microcosm of how airline policies can influence consumer behaviors. Travel experts have already noted an increase in demand for specialized items like compression packing cubes and other space-saving travel accessories specifically designed to work within these regulatory dimensions.

Although complying with these size and weight restrictions may feel somewhat inconvenient, it arguably does enhance the travel experience for everyone. A more streamlined cabin environment means passengers can move about more freely and reduces the possibility of injuries from poorly stowed belongings.


This shift by SAS and others to more rigorous carry-on allowances is just another example of how the airline industry continues to evolve and adapt. Whether or not this model will become the norm in the industry remains to be seen, as does the ultimate impact it will have on the traveling public and the economics of air travel.

SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - Pet Transport Rules For Small Cats and Dogs On SAS Flights

SAS Scandinavian Airlines is making some changes to how they handle small cats and dogs on their flights, effective January 1, 2024. If you're planning on traveling with a small cat or dog in the cabin, you'll need to make sure they're in a carrier that's no larger than 40 cm x 23 cm x 55 cm. Furthermore, the total weight of your pet and the carrier cannot exceed 8 kg. It appears SAS is trying to achieve a degree of standardization and reduce the potential for chaos in the cabin related to pets.

However, some pet owners may find the new rules a bit restrictive. Certain short-nosed breeds, like Bulldogs and Pugs, will no longer be allowed in the cabin. Apparently, these breeds are more susceptible to breathing issues during flights and thus will be transported in the cargo hold. This could be a concern for many owners of these breeds who might prefer the familiarity of the cabin for their pets.

SAS will also charge a fee of roughly EUR 55-99 for bringing pets in the cabin. It is worth noting that pets are not included in the standard baggage allowance. That said, service animals that are actively assisting passengers will be exempt from the fee. While the airline suggests this will improve operational efficiency and cabin space, it is unclear how much this will actually contribute to a better passenger experience.

It's also worth pointing out that you can only have one pet carrier per passenger and the carrier is allowed to hold up to two small pets. Perhaps it is best to check with SAS beforehand if you plan on traveling with a pair of small pets to ensure both of them fit comfortably and comply with the size constraints. These restrictions, although they sound rather straight forward, could create some challenges for travelers. The changes do reflect a trend across the industry towards tighter restrictions related to pets on planes.

SAS permits small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin, as long as they fit into a designated carrier and the combined weight doesn't surpass 8 kg. This weight limit aligns with their standard carry-on baggage restrictions, hinting at a broader focus on weight management within the passenger cabin.

The pet carrier itself has to adhere to maximum dimensions of 40 cm x 23 cm x 55 cm. This presents a potential constraint for pet owners, as it limits the selection of suitable carriers. Finding a carrier that fits both the pet and the dimensions within the restrictions represents an interesting design challenge, especially if one considers how efficiently space has to be used.

It's interesting to observe that some airlines report that the presence of pets aboard can actually reduce stress levels for human passengers. The idea of increased calm with pets on board suggests that pet-friendly travel might have a positive impact on customer satisfaction – a fascinating element to research further.

SAS has a policy that requires pets to remain in their carrier for the entire duration of the flight. This mirrors the airline's general approach to luggage and safety, helping ensure minimal disturbance during the flight, and aligns with existing cabin protocols.

Pet travel policies differ widely between airlines, with some more restrictive based on aircraft type or seating arrangements. The way SAS has built their pet policy shows a particular emphasis on customer experience, a potentially interesting aspect given that SAS is in a competitive market.

Cats and dogs, being carnivorous, can experience considerable stress when facing changes in routine and surroundings. Traveling by air represents an added stressor, highlighting the psychological elements involved when transporting animals.

While some airlines charge for transporting pets, SAS seems to have integrated it into the existing travel fee. This is an anomaly in the broader airline industry, where ancillary fees have been on a steady increase, presenting an interesting lens through which to analyze SAS's business model.

International pet travel is subject to specific regulations, often necessitating health certificates and other documents. This underlines the need for thorough planning, as any missing paperwork could lead to travel delays.

Research suggests that noise levels on aircraft, particularly during take-off and landing, can cause heightened anxiety in pets. This implies the need for owners to prepare their pets prior to air travel. Owners should ideally find ways to help their pet acclimate to travel situations prior to boarding a flight.

The evolving landscape of pet travel might stimulate advancements within the pet care sector. We can imagine a future where the demand for carriers compliant with SAS's (and other airlines') policies spurs innovations like lightweight, collapsible designs that accommodate both pet comfort and airline restrictions.

SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - SAS Weight Restrictions and Checked Baggage Allowances

SAS has recently revised its baggage policies, and it's important for travelers to understand the updated weight restrictions and checked baggage allowances. When it comes to checked baggage, there's a maximum size limit of 158 centimeters (length, width, and height combined), and a standard weight cap of 23 kilograms. Exceeding this weight limit will trigger additional charges.

Passengers are permitted one carry-on bag, which cannot weigh more than 8 kilograms and must adhere to dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm. Alongside this, you can bring a small personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, that must fit under the seat in front of you.

These baggage restrictions appear to reflect a broader industry trend towards stricter baggage management, potentially aimed at improving operational efficiency during boarding. While this might help airlines streamline processes, it's worth questioning whether it truly benefits passengers or simply results in more revenue for the airline. It's a balancing act between convenience for travelers and efficiency for the airline, and only time will tell if these changes will truly improve the travel experience.

1. **SAS's Weight Limits: A Look Back**: SAS's 8 kg carry-on weight limit, unchanged since 2009, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. It reflects a time when air travel was different, a time when the airline's main concern was handling growing passenger demand while ensuring cabin comfort. It's interesting to consider the shift in priorities and how SAS navigates the evolving needs of air travel today.

2. **The Economics of On-Time Performance**: Around 25% of airline delays stem from baggage handling and boarding. By tightening carry-on restrictions, SAS aims to reduce these delays. This can mean better punctuality and potentially reduced operating costs, both of which are crucial for a healthy airline bottom line. But it's also worth questioning how impactful these changes truly are to the grand scheme of airline finances.

3. **The Air Inside the Plane**: Heavier carry-ons and the cumulative weight of personal items could influence cabin pressure, especially with a packed cabin. While the exact impact may be small, keeping these weights down might promote a more stable and safer cabin environment, an important aspect for everyone onboard. One wonders how much difference a few kilograms of carry-on actually makes - if any.

4. **Materials of the Future**: The push towards lighter luggage could be a driver of innovation in materials science. We might see a surge in lightweight composite materials used in luggage design as manufacturers strive to meet these new restrictions. It's a compelling intersection of engineering and consumer behavior, a fascinating case study in how regulation can drive invention.

5. **The Feeling of Safety**: Studies show that having a well-organized cabin with properly stowed luggage can positively impact passenger perception of safety. The new carry-on rules aim to contribute to this feeling, creating a more orderly and perhaps psychologically reassuring environment. While it might feel minor, this could play a role in a passenger's overall travel satisfaction.

6. **Overhead Space Efficiency**: The smaller carry-on allowances could contribute to improved usage of overhead compartment space. Less chaos in the cabin when storing bags may lead to fewer delays associated with struggling to find space for large items. This could mean quicker turnarounds and smoother boarding procedures. However, to what extent will this actually alleviate common problems within the airport system?

7. **Pets in the Cabin or Below**: SAS's ban on certain breeds of pets from the cabin is based on their potential susceptibility to in-flight health issues. This is a complex decision, aiming to protect animal welfare while minimizing potential in-flight disturbances and discomfort for other passengers. One must ask oneself: what is the real impact on the overall experience of traveling with pets?

8. **A New Era of Airline Fees**: SAS's pet fees are part of a larger trend within the airline industry, a trend toward increasing reliance on ancillary revenue. It's a clever balancing act: offsetting costs of pet travel while still catering to pet-loving travelers. It is questionable though how much of this is true cost recovery or simply a new way of charging customers.

9. **When Seconds Matter**: Defined luggage sizes are crucial for safety during emergency situations. Oversized items could block evacuation routes and create obstacles for a quick and smooth exit from the aircraft. While the emphasis on safety is understandable, it's a necessary trade-off that not everyone will fully appreciate, though everyone should be aware of the role baggage plays in security.

10. **Innovation in Packing**: The SAS changes could lead to a new era of travel accessories. We could see a rise in innovative packing solutions, things like space-saving compression bags and modular packing systems. This provides interesting research questions for how customers will adapt to these regulations. Will there be wider adoption of new products and methods or will customers be indifferent?

SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - Essential Measurement Requirements for Wheels and Handles

SAS Scandinavian Airlines has implemented a change to their carry-on baggage policy, effective January 2025, which now includes stricter size limitations. The new maximum allowed size for carry-on bags is 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm, roughly equivalent to 22 x 16 x 9 inches. A crucial aspect of this change is that the dimensions encompass all parts of the bag, including wheels and handles. This means travelers must be more mindful of the overall dimensions of their luggage when choosing a suitable bag, or risk encountering potential fees for exceeding the allowed size.

This move reflects a broader pattern across the airline industry where airlines are tightening carry-on restrictions, likely to streamline boarding and baggage handling processes. While the intent may be to improve efficiency, for many, it presents an added layer of complexity when planning a trip. One can argue that this change emphasizes streamlining at the potential expense of passenger convenience. It remains to be seen if the potential gains in efficiency will translate into a more positive overall passenger experience, or if these restrictions will simply lead to more fees for those who aren't meticulous about checking their luggage dimensions. Ultimately, travelers will need to adapt to these new size standards, potentially prompting a shift in luggage design trends as manufacturers strive to produce bags optimized within these newly established constraints.

1. **Handle Design and Load Distribution:** The way luggage handles are designed can influence how weight is spread during movement. Well-designed handles, from an ergonomic standpoint, can minimize stress on both the user and the bag, helping to extend the lifespan of the wheels and the fabric.

2. **Wheel Size and Navigability:** Larger luggage wheels tend to improve maneuverability, especially on uneven surfaces or airport floors. Research suggests that larger wheels need less force to roll, making it easier for travelers to navigate busy airport environments.

3. **Material Selection for Handles and Wheels:** The development of modern materials, like composite polymers, has improved luggage wheel and handle construction. These materials allow for lighter, stronger components, which in turn enhances the overall durability and lifespan of luggage. This is especially important in environments that place stress on these components.

4. **Weight Distribution Dynamics:** Where wheels and handles are positioned on carry-on luggage impacts the way weight is distributed. A properly balanced piece of luggage reduces the effort required to move it, ultimately contributing to a better user experience during transport.

5. **Design's Influence on Airline Fees:** Luggage that goes over weight limits can be problematic. This indicates that a bag's design affects not just its ease of use but also might trigger extra costs for travelers. It's worth considering that poorly designed luggage can actually exceed its advertised weight when filled.

6. **Handle Height Adaptability:** Luggage with adjustable handle heights can better accommodate various user heights, which can lead to a more ergonomic travel experience. There's evidence that badly designed handles can cause discomfort and fatigue, negatively impacting the journey.

7. **Wheel Material and Surface Interaction:** The material used in the manufacture of luggage wheels (e.g., polyurethane versus plastic) plays a big role in how smoothly they roll and how much noise they make. Studies have shown that specific materials reduce rolling resistance, leading to faster, easier transport.

8. **Wheel Bearing Robustness:** The quality of wheel bearings is frequently overlooked, but they're key to a bag's performance. High-quality bearings minimize friction and wear, leading to smoother movement and longer wheel lifespan, a major plus for those who travel frequently.

9. **Aerodynamics of Luggage Shapes:** The design of luggage can influence airflow during transport, especially when it's placed in an overhead bin. Studies have shown that a streamlined design could reduce drag, potentially improving cabin air efficiency in a subtle way.

10. **Safety During Turbulence**: Well-designed handles and wheels improve safety in turbulent conditions. If luggage is prone to rolling away or toppling over due to poor handling design, it can become a safety hazard within the cabin. This highlights how important luggage design is for overall passenger safety.

SAS Introduces Updated Carry-On Policy Complete Guide to Size Limits and Pet Transport Rules - Changes to SAS Business Class Hand Luggage Allowances

SAS Scandinavian Airlines has updated its carry-on baggage policy for Business Class travelers, effective January 2025. The new rules introduce a more specific set of restrictions for both main carry-on and personal items. Business Class passengers will now be limited to one main carry-on bag, measuring no more than 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm, with a weight cap of 8 kg. Notably, this weight restriction hasn't changed since 2009. In addition, they can bring a smaller personal item, such as a laptop bag or purse, that must fit under the seat and not exceed dimensions of 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm. These new regulations are part of SAS's plan to improve boarding efficiency and possibly simplify the on-board baggage management process. However, it's not entirely clear whether these adjustments will actually enhance the passenger experience. Some may find it challenging to accommodate all their necessary items within the newly defined parameters. While SAS has historically been diligent about enforcing baggage policies, whether this move will significantly improve the on-time performance or alleviate congestion in the cabin remains to be seen. It's possible that these changes, intended to optimize boarding processes, will instead lead to some degree of inconvenience and potentially frustrate passengers who are accustomed to more relaxed baggage rules. Ultimately, it's an interesting experiment by SAS to streamline the on-board experience, but the impact on passengers' satisfaction with their travel will need to be closely observed in the coming months and years.

SAS's recent changes to their business class hand luggage allowance raise several interesting points. Firstly, the 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm limit on carry-on bags, while seemingly minor, may force travelers to re-evaluate their packing strategies. Research shows people often adjust their habits to meet restrictions, which could lead to more use of things like packing cubes.

It's fascinating that the 8 kg weight restriction has been unchanged for over a decade. Given advancements in material sciences, it seems reasonable that today's luggage could be lighter and still hold a similar amount of items.

The new rule that dimensions include handles and wheels suggests an increased focus on safety procedures within the cabin. Larger carry-on items, if numerous, can pose risks during emergencies, as they could obstruct aisles or emergency exits. While improving safety is valuable, it can also impact the passenger experience if they feel their personal space is diminished.

The focus on weight restrictions also presents opportunities for innovation in luggage design. We might see a trend toward lighter, stronger luggage, using modern materials like composites. This could translate to a more dynamic luggage market as manufacturers aim to meet the new requirements.

However, it's worth considering the airline's revenue model in this context. Carry-on size and weight restrictions often result in extra charges for oversized baggage. While SAS may frame this as improving operational efficiency, it might simply be a new source of revenue. The lack of clarity around pricing strategies is an area worth investigating further.

The new rules could make boarding more efficient, potentially reducing delays, especially as studies show a strong link between faster boarding and fewer delays. SAS may shift their operational procedures in response to this focus on efficiency, potentially even impacting regional flight schedules.

This situation might spark a new consumer trend. We could see higher demand for more compact, modular luggage as travelers find ways to adapt. People tend to buy what is needed or what they feel forced into and this trend could create a distinct niche market for luggage makers.

The ergonomics of luggage design become more significant with smaller carry-on sizes. If handles aren't optimized for ease of use and the bag isn't well-balanced, it could strain travelers, especially if they are navigating busy airport terminals.

It is likely that some travelers will be confused by the new regulations and this might need a campaign to educate customers. The definition of "size" or "allowance" might be open to interpretation and this lack of clarity could lead to disagreements at check-in which airlines typically wish to avoid.

Finally, the psychological impact of these rules shouldn't be ignored. Air travel already evokes feelings of anxiety for some and tighter luggage restrictions can only exacerbate it. While aiming for smoother travel, airlines must recognize that enforcing these rules might actually create more stress for some travelers. This complex interplay of efficiency and the passenger experience is certainly worth researching further.