SAS Cabin Bag Rules 2026 — Dimensions, Weight & Strictness

Strictness: 4.5/10

SAS carry-on baggage rules for 2026. We track 3 fare-type allowances for SAS, so you can compare the bag you actually booked rather than guessing from a generic airline rule. Strictness score: 4.5/10.

All SAS Baggage Allowances (2026)

SAS Gate Enforcement by Airport

Based on crowdsourced traveller reports. Airports sorted by check rate.

Airport Check Rate Reports (N) Confidence
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) 55% 350 medium
Manchester Airport (MAN) 55% 200 medium
London Gatwick Airport (LGW) 55% 200 low
London Stansted Airport (STN) 55% 300 medium
Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) 55% 100 low

View full strictness heatmap ->

Understanding SAS Baggage Policy

SAS baggage rules are easiest to understand by fare type, not by airline name alone. The cheapest fare may include only a small under-seat item, while a higher tier can add an overhead locker bag. That is where many travellers get caught: the booking screen mentions cabin baggage, but the included size may be smaller than the roller bag sitting at home.

Gate fees for non-compliant bags are usually worse than buying the right tier in advance. If your bag is borderline, measure it after packing with all external pockets, wheels, handles, and feet included. Manufacturer dimensions often describe a neat empty shell; gate staff see the full, zipped, travel-day shape.

On the TravelHub Strictness Scale, SAS currently scores 4.5/10. A score of 4.5 suggests lighter observed enforcement, but the published limit still applies if staff decide to use the sizer.

Read our full strictness methodology →

Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are SAS's cabin bag dimensions?
SAS cabin bag dimensions vary by ticket type. Basic or economy fares typically allow only a small personal item stowed under the seat. Standard and priority fares allow a larger overhead locker bag. See the baggage allowances above for verified dimensions by fare class, updated June 2026.
How strict is SAS about cabin bags?
SAS scores 4.5/10 on the TravelHub Strictness Scale. A score of 4.5 suggests lighter observed enforcement, but the published limit still applies if staff decide to use the sizer.
What is the gate fee if my bag is too big on SAS?
Gate fees are applied when a cabin bag exceeds published dimensions at the gate. On most carriers these fees are significantly higher than pre-purchased hold baggage. Check the baggage table above for verified gate fee amounts by ticket type for SAS.
How do I measure my bag correctly for SAS?
Measure the total external dimensions including wheels, handles, external pockets, and feet. Do not rely on manufacturer dimensions, which may reference internal capacity. Weigh the bag fully packed. If your bag is borderline, a soft-sided bag that compresses is lower risk than a rigid case.