Planning a trip to the Greek islands or a European getaway? Navigating airline baggage rules can often feel as complex as navigating the labyrinth of Crete.
If you are flying with SKY Express, understanding the specific allowances for your fare type is crucial to avoiding unexpected fees at the gate.
Quick Summary: Baggage Allowance by Fare Type
SKY Express uses a “Fare Family” system. Your baggage allowance is strictly tied to the ticket class you purchase.
| Fare Type | Personal Item (40x30x15cm) | Cabin Baggage (55x40x23cm) | Checked Baggage |
| SKY offer | Included | Included (8kg) | Pay Extra |
| SKY joy | Included | Included (8kg) | Pay Extra |
| SKY joy+ | Included | Included (8kg) | 1 x 15kg |
| SKY basic | Included | Included (8kg) | 1 x 15kg |
| SKY enjoy | Included | Included (8kg) | 1 x 23kg |
| BLISS / BLISS+ | Included | Included (13kg) | 2 x 32kg |
Pro Tip: Always check your specific fare confirmation. “SKY basic” is typically available only on select Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes (e.g., between islands like Rhodes and Samos or Corfu and Preveza).
Carry-On Baggage Rules
SKY express is generous compared to some low-cost carriers, allowing two items in the cabin for every passenger, regardless of fare class.
The Personal Item
Every passenger is guaranteed one personal item free of charge.
- Dimensions: Max 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
- Type: Handbag, laptop case, or small backpack.
- Placement: Must fit under the seat in front of you.
The Cabin Bag (Hand Luggage)
- Dimensions: Max 55 x 40 x 23 cm.
- Weight Limit (Economy): 8kg.
- Weight Limit (Business/BLISS): 13kg.
- Placement: Must be stored in the overhead bin.
Warning: If your carry-on exceeds these limits, it may be gate-checked for a fee. For flights on smaller ATR aircraft (often used for island hopping), overhead space is limited.
Staff may ask to place your larger carry-on in the hold free of charge, ensure you remove valuables and medication before handing it over.
Checked Baggage Fees & Policies
If your fare doesn’t include a bag, or if you need more space, you can purchase extra allowance.
Purchasing Extra Bags
Prices vary significantly based on when you buy (Online vs. Airport) and seasonality.
High Season Dates: April 1 – October 31 & December 12 – January 7.
Domestic Flights (Within Greece)
| Bag Weight | Online Price (Low/High Season) | Airport Price (Low/High Season) |
| 15 kg | €16 / €20* | Not Available |
| 23 kg | €20 / €25* | €35 / €50 |
Note: On popular island routes (Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, etc.), high season online fees for 15kg bags may rise to €30.
International Flights
| Bag Weight | Online Price (Low/High Season) | Airport Price (Low/High Season) |
| 15 kg | €15 – €25 / €30 – €40 | Not Available |
| 23 kg | €30 – €40 / €40 – €45 | €40 – €45 / €55 – €60 |
Key Takeaway: You can save up to 50% by booking your baggage online up to 3 hours before departure. The 15kg option is generally not sold at the airport—if you show up with a bag and haven’t paid, you will likely be forced to buy the more expensive 23kg option.
Excess Weight Charges
If your bag is heavier than your allowance (e.g., your bag weighs 18kg but you only paid for 15kg), you will be charged per kilo.
- Online: €5 – €8 per kg.
- Airport: €7 – €10 per kg.
Special Baggage & Sports Equipment
SKY express has specific categorizations for special items.
Sports Equipment
Equipment is charged based on size (Medium vs. Large) and is separate from your standard baggage allowance.
- Medium (up to 150cm): ~€50 (e.g., Golf clubs, diving gear, kite surf).
- Large (up to 250cm): ~€90 (e.g., Canoes, windsurf boards, large skis).
- Bicycles: Charged as medium equipment (€50).
Musical Instruments
- Small Instruments: Can be carried in the cabin free of charge if they fit within the 55 x 40 x 23 cm dimensions (replacing your carry-on).
- Medium Instruments: If it fits in a seat (e.g., Cello), you can book an “Extra Seat” via the call center.
- Large Instruments: Checked into the hold for a €40 fee (if >150cm).
Traveling with Pets
SKY express allows pets in both the cabin and the hold, subject to strict weight limits.
Pets in Cabin
- Allowed Animals: Dogs and cats.
- Weight Limit: Up to 8kg (including carrier).
- Carrier Size: Max 55 x 40 x 20 cm (Soft case recommended).
- Fees: €35 (Domestic) / €65 (International).
Pets in Hold
- Allowed Animals: Dogs and cats.
- Weight Limit: Up to 25kg (including carrier).
- Carrier Size: Max 70 x 50 x 51.5 cm.
- Fees: €50 per direction.
- Note: Hold transport is generally available on ATR aircraft fleets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are strollers free for children?
Yes. Infants (0-2) and children (2-12) are entitled to carry one folding stroller free of charge. This is checked in and usually delivered to the aircraft door upon arrival.
Can I take olive oil or alcohol in my checked bag?
Yes, but with limits. Alcoholic beverages (up to 70% alcohol) are allowed in receptacles not exceeding 5L. Total net quantity per person is 5L. This is great for bringing home Ouzo or local wine!
What happens if I have a “SKY enjoy” fare but my bag weighs 25kg?
The “SKY enjoy” fare includes 23kg. If your bag is 25kg, you will be charged for the 2kg excess weight at the airport rate.
How late can I add bags online?
You can add extra baggage or sports equipment via “Manage my Booking” up to 3 hours before scheduled departure.
Final Thoughts
If you are island hopping on the smaller ATR planes, be mindful of the strict overhead bin space; soft-sided carry-ons are your best friend in these scenarios.
Check the latest updates on the official SKY Express website before you fly, as seasonal dates and fees are subject to change.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
