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<\/p>\nRyanair passengers have been told to pack a cardboard box in their hand luggage<\/p>\n
Passengers on a Ryanair plane(Image: Alex Segre\/UCG\/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)<\/p>\n
Ryanair travellers have been told to tuck a piece of cardboard into their hand luggage following an announcement the airline<\/a> made last summer. The budget carrier increased its ‘personal bag’ size by 20% in response to new EU regulations.<\/p>\n From September 2025, passengers flying on a basic fare on Ryanair <\/a>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.<\/p>\n With the new bag dimensions now in place, packing expert Tom Schott from Schott Packaging is warning travellers<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n Read More: Expert claims only two countries could survive nuclear war and would be forced to live underground<\/a><\/p>\n Read More: Ireland Social Welfare 2026: St Patrick’s Day and Easter Payment Date Changes<\/a><\/p>\n “The mistake is to simply cram more in. The real victory for passengers<\/a> is using that volume to pack with structure. A well-packed bag is a compliant bag.”<\/p>\n 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<\/a>.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n “This creates a crush-proof zone for chargers, adapters, and toiletries, preventing damage and leaks.”<\/p>\n 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.”<\/p>\n 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”.<\/p>\n For all the latest breaking news headlines today, visit our website home page<\/a>. Join Galway Beo’s top stories and breaking news service on WhatsApp.<\/p>\n