Ryanair introduced a new hand-luggage policy on 15 January that restricts the number of bags that you can take onboard with you for free. To avoid any confusion (and additional fees), we’ve outlined the main changes to be aware of, as well as rounding up a selection of Ryanair-approved carry-on bags to buy for your next trip.
What is Ryanair’s baggage allowance and what has changed?
You can now only take a bag with the dinky dimensions of 35 x 20 x 20cm onboard with you unless you pay an extra £5 each way for Priority Boarding. This will let you travel with two items, including a larger cabin bag (measuring 50 x 40 x 20cm). If you don’t want to pay the extra charge, your second bag will be tagged at the gate and placed in the hold. The budget airline has introduced the new rules in an effort to reduce delays when boarding.
How can I avoid Ryanair's hand luggage fees?
You have two choices: either squish your possessions into a very small bag (essentially the same size as a handbag or a laptop bag) or place your larger bag in the hold and factor in extra time to retrieve it from the luggage carousel when you land. If you’re travelling with a small bag, consider wearing your bulkier items, rolling your clothes instead of folding them, and using vacuum bags to make the most of the space.
How much does Priority Boarding cost and what does it include?
Priority Boarding will set you back £5 each way. It allows you to take two bags onboard with you: one larger cabin bag (50 x 40 x 20cm, weighing less than 10kg) and one small bag (measuring 35 x 20 x 20cm). You can add Priority Boarding to your booking online up to two hours before you fly or using the app up to 30 minutes before the flight departs.
Are there any sneaky charges to be aware of?
Ryanair loves imposing charges and there’s a hefty £50 fee per item if you turn up with bags that fail to comply with the size and weight restrictions above. This fee also applies if you don’t add Priority Boarding to your booking within the time limit set by the airline.
Want to avoid extra hand luggage charges altogether? Consider buying one of these carry-on bags.
The best Ryanair hand luggage
1. Members Essential On-Board Bag
Size: 35 x 20 x 20cm
Buy now from Amazon for £13.95
This simple holdall features double carry handles and a removable shoulder strap, and fits neatly under the seat in front of you. The main compartment seems surprisingly roomy (although you’ll need to really hone your packing skills) and you can store your passport and travel documents in the front pocket. It’s available in a range of retro polka-dot designs.
2. Aerolite Holdall
Size: 35 x 20 x 20cm
Made from tough nylon, this smart black holdall comes with a two-year guarantee. It features a top carry handle and an adjustable shoulder strap for travellers of all sizes, and the front pocket is handy for easy-to-grab items. A strap at the back lets you slide it over suitcase handles if you’re travelling with an additional case.
3. Cabin Max Arezzo Stowaway Bag
Size: 35 x 20 x 20cm
Weighing in at 400g, this small “stowaway” bag has been designed specifically to comply with Ryanair’s hand-luggage rules and you can score extra brownie points with the airline by opting for the on-brand blue-and-yellow design. It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap and a front pocket for your travel documents.
