It’s all in the bag: Ryanair increases “free” cabin bag allowance by 20%
July 3, 2025
The Irish low-cost carrier’s move is being introduced in “the coming weeks,” in a bid to remain competitive with its budget rivals and boost passenger satisfaction.
Ryanair’s increased free cabin bag allowance comes after European lawmakers backed a move to standardise the dimensions for the “free” hand luggage allowance.
The newly announced minimum luggage size at no extra cost for passengers travelling in Europe is 40x30x15cm.
European lawmakers had proposed regulations for passengers flying in the EU to have to right to bring one cabin bag measuring up to 100cm on board, as well as an under seat personal item. Airlines4Europe (A4E) which counts Ryanair alongside its airline members hit out at the proposal, warning it would strip passengers of flexibility and drive up costs, undermining airlines’ commercial independence.
However, Ryanair has now confirmed it is increasing the size of the personal bag allowance from 40x25x20cm to 40x30x20cm. While only a 5cm increase in size, the volume will be 24 litres, instead of 20 litres, enabling passengers to pack additional items without paying for priority boarding or checked luggage.
Budget airlines fined for hand baggage charges
Previously budget carriers including Ryanair, as well as easyJet, Wizz and others have charged additional fees for hand luggage depending on the size and weight. In retaliation, Spain’s Consumer Rights Ministry fined five budget airlines €179m for what it described as “abusive practices” including charging for hand luggage in November 2024. The five airlines included Ryanair, which received the largest fine of €108m, easyJet, Vueling, Norwegian and Volotea.
The Spanish ruling helped pave the way for the EU to push for fairer and more consistent hand luggage rules.
While Ryanair’s move to increase its free cabin bag allowance will see it match Wizz Air’s policy and is bigger than the EU standard, the Irish carrier’s allowance is slightly less than easyJet, which allows 45x36x20cm (32 litres).
Ryanair will roll the new cabin baggage allowance out widely “over the coming weeks,” while its airport bag sizers are adjusted.
