Ryanair passengers have been told to pack a cardboard box in their hand luggage
Passengers on a Ryanair plane(Image: Alex Segre/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Ryanair travellers have been told to tuck a piece of cardboard into their hand luggage following an announcement the airline made last summer. The budget carrier increased its ‘personal bag’ size by 20% in response to new EU regulations.
From September 2025, passengers flying on a basic fare on Ryanair can bring a larger bag on board, measuring up to 40cm x 30cm x 20cm, without facing extra charges. The bag must weigh less than 10kg and fit beneath the seat in front of you.
With the new bag dimensions now in place, packing expert Tom Schott from Schott Packaging is warning travellers against a potentially expensive mistake, as he believes the increased allowance might encourage people to overpack their bags. Tom stated: “The new dimension is a game-changer, but only if you use it wisely.
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“The mistake is to simply cram more in. The real victory for passengers is using that volume to pack with structure. A well-packed bag is a compliant bag.”
One of Tom’s numerous tips to avoid this is to pack some cardboard. He explained: “Soft bags lose volume. A lightweight, snug-fitting cardboard box inside your bag provides a rigid frame, allowing you to use every corner and prevent the bulge that attracts gate staff.”, reports the Mirror.
He also recommends using sealable bags to maximise space, organising belongings into smaller compartments, and protecting valuables. Tom added: “Place a small, sturdy box in the centre of your bag, cushioned by clothes.
“This creates a crush-proof zone for chargers, adapters, and toiletries, preventing damage and leaks.”
Holiday-makers are also encouraged to “pre-plan your bag”, with Tom suggesting you lay out all your items on the floor within a 40cm x 30cm outline beforehand, as this “provides a real-world view of what fits and helps you assemble your packed modules logically and quickly.”
Tom continued: “These aren’t just clever tricks, but core principles of efficient packing. By applying them, you can confidently pack that extra outfit and still breeze through the boarding gate”.
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