Transporting Sports Equipment with SWISS – Guidelines and Fees

SWISS Airlines allows passengers to travel with sports equipment, but specific conditions and charges apply. If the equipment fits within the standard checked baggage allowance, it can be transported free of charge. This includes items such as skis, snowboards, tennis rackets, golf bags, or bicycles up to 2 meters in length. However, travelers flying on the Economy Light fare should note that it does not include checked baggage, meaning that bringing sports gear will incur an additional fee.

If your equipment exceeds the standard baggage allowance in size or weight, excess baggage charges apply. These fees are calculated per flight segment and vary depending on the travel class and ticket type. Connecting flights within 24 hours are treated as a single segment. Payment must be made separately for each direction of the journey, in the local currency of the departure country.

Due to limited cargo space, SWISS strongly recommends registering sports equipment in advance—no later than 72 hours before departure. Registration can be completed via a travel agent or by using the online form available on the SWISS website. If carriage is not possible, passengers will be informed by email.

It’s important to note that SWISS does not accept sports equipment exceeding 32 kg in weight or 3.5 meters in length. Additionally, since August 20, 2018, certain large items are not permitted to be checked in to, from, or through London Heathrow Airport. This restriction includes kayaks, paragliders, equestrian gear, longboards, inflatable boats, tandem bicycles, pole vault poles, and windsurfing equipment.

Before your journey, it is advisable to review the current transport policies and use the baggage calculator available on the SWISS website to avoid unexpected charges and check-in issues.