A cabin air filter is provided with a filter element receptacle and a filter element having a fold pack. The filter element is inserted in an insertion direction into the filter element receptacle. The filter element is provided with a sword that extends in the insertion direction away from a face of the filter element. The filter element has lateral strips that close off the fold pack on at least two sides of the fold pack. The sword is preferably inherently stable so that it can transmit compressive forces from the filter element to the receptacle.