Ryanair has increased its cabin bag size allowance, but passengers are being warned the change could result in unexpected baggage fees of up to €75 for millions of travellers who don’t pack carefully
Ryanair cabin baggage measurement cage(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Ryanair travellers have been warned that the airline’s 20% expansion in cabin luggage dimensions could prove an expensive pitfall for millions of passengers.
The Irish carrier increased its ‘personal bag’ limit following revised EU rules last September.
From that point, passengers travelling on a standard fare with Ryanair are allowed to take a bigger bag aboard, measuring up to 40cm x 30cm x 20cm, at no extra cost. The bag must weigh no more than 10kg and fit comfortably under the seat ahead.
However, with gate charges running between €70 to €75, Tom Schott of Schott Packaging suggests the expanded size limit will prompt overstuffed bags that incur penalty charges, reports RSVP Live.
Ryanair bag sizer is seen at Rome Ciampino Airport in Ciampino, Italy(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
“The new dimension is a game-changer, but only if you use it wisely. The mistake is to simply cram more in. The real victory for passengers is using that volume to pack in a structured way. A well-packed bag is a compliant bag,” he explained.
To help holidaymakers in sidestepping this expensive pitfall, here are Tom’s five packing recommendations:
1. Build a cardboard skeleton: 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.
2. Use sealable bags: Place clothes in heavy-duty sealable bags and squeeze all the air out before sealing fully.
This can reduce the volume of soft items by up to 50%.
3. Think in modules: Organise belongings into smaller compartments using compact boxes or pouches (for instance: one dedicated to electronics, another for toiletries). This approach allows you to fit everything together efficiently, removing any unnecessary gaps.
4. Create a buffer for valuables: Position a small, robust container in the middle of your luggage, surrounded by clothing.
This establishes a protected area for chargers, adaptors, and toiletries, safeguarding against damage and spillages.
5. Pre-plan your bag: Arrange everything on the ground within a 40x30cm boundary beforehand.
This offers a practical perspective of what will fit and enables you to organise your packed sections sensibly and swiftly.
Tom adds, “With our experience in logistics, we know 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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