Passengers urged to check one thing as Ryanair increases limits for cabin bags

Europe’s largest budget airline, Ryanair, is set to increase its free cabin baggage allowance this summer. While this will be a big bonus for Brits travelling light, passengers shouldn't be too hasty.

At present, Ryanair allows a free personal bag measuring 40 x 25 x 20 cm. However, following a new agreement among European airlines to standardize a minimum cabin bag size, Ryanair will be increasing one of these dimensions.

The allowed width will rise from 25 cm to 30 cm, making the new maximum size 40 x 30 x 20 cm. However, the airline has not yet announced the exact date the changes will take effect, so passengers should ensure their cabin bags still comply with the 40 x 25 x 20 cm limit for the time being, to avoid fees of up to £60 at check in.

READ MORE: FatFace's 'cool' summer dress that 'doesn't crease' and will 'pack well for holidays'

READ MORE: Tesco discounts award-winning Irish cream liqueur that beat Baileys in taste tests

A spokesperson from Ryanair said: "Following the new EU minimum bag size of 40 x 30 x 15cm, Ryanair will increase its max 'personal bag' dimensions to 40 x 30 x 20cm, so that Ryanair's 'personal bag' allowance is bigger than the EU standard.

"This change will be implemented over the coming weeks, as our airport bag sizers are adjusted."

While the increased capacity will benefit Ryanair passengers jetting off this summer, the size is still less generous than rival budget airline Easyjet, which allows a free underseat bag of 45cm x 36cm x 20cm (including wheels and handles) weighing up to 10kg.

Other UK airlines also offer more space to keep in-flight essentials close at hand. These include:

• British Airways - one cabin bag measuring 56 × 45 × 25 cm and weighing less than 23 kg plus one personal item measuring 40 × 30 × 15 cm

• easyJet - one under-seat bag measuring 45 × 36 × 20 cm and weighing less than 15 kg. Passengers with Flexi or EasyJet Plus/Speedy Boarding can add a large cabin bag measuring 56 × 45 × 25 cm.

• Jet2 - one under-seat bag measuring 40 × 30 × 15 cm plus one cabin bag measuring 56 × 45 × 25 cm, weighing up to 10 kg combined

• TUI Airways - one cabin bag measuring 55 × 40 × 20 cm and weighing less than 10 kg plus optional small under-seat item in some fare types

• Virgin Atlantic - one cabin bag measuring 56 × 36 × 23 cm plus one personal item, up to 10 kg total (16 kg for Upper‑Class second cabin bag)

• Wizz Air – one free personal item measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm, up to 10 kg; plus one cabin bag measuring 55 × 40 × 23 cm, up to 10 kg, included only with WIZZ Priority

For passengers who are jetting off before the new rules come into effect, travelling with the right size luggage can prevent oversized cabin bags being charged to go in the hold. Some of the best bags to keep you well within the limits include:

Vankev Ryanair Cabin Bag

A durable, TSA-friendly backpack for organised travellers, this carry on comes with a suitcase-style compartment, 14" laptop sleeve, multiple pockets and ergonomic straps that make it easier to carry.

Buyers have praised the bag’s spaciousness, compartments, versatility and comfort—calling it "perfect for short trips" and "a great underseat bag." However, some buyers noted concerns about flimsy material, stiff zippers and lack of padding for electronics.

The backpack starts from £27.99 and is available in a choice of colours and sizes.

Lossga

This bag offers multiple pockets, a suitcase-like opening for easy airport checks, and padded straps for even weight distribution. It comes in a choice of colours, with prices starting from £16.89 on Amazon.

Many buyers have praised its smart layout, ample compartments as well as the fact that it is "perfect size for Ryanair flights." However, some buyer complained about its cheap appearance and "zippers that break easily."

Metz Underseat Bag

This 20L hybrid bag can be used as a trolley or backpack, offering a suitcase-style opening and soft-sided design for flexible packing. Available in a choice of colours and designs, it can be snapped up for £30 at Next.

Customers praise the well-designed, cabin-sized bag, noting its secure strap for wheeled cases and it's surprisingly roomy interior.

Passengers who are looking to upgrade to Priority or 2 Cabin Bags tickets will also be able to carry one larger cabin bag measuring no more than 55cm x 40cm x 20cm and weighing less than 10kg.

The Antler Single Stripe Cabin Suitcase fits the maximum Ryanair dimensions perfectly and comes with a well designed interior, super smooth wheels and a lifetime warranty. Available in a range of colours, the upscale cabin case range starts from £160.

Elsewhere, the Stori Cabin Case from Nere is a good alternative to the Antler range, with designed looks and practical storage. Prices start from £99.

For buyers who can't wait for delivery, Argos has a range of small and large cabin bags to choose from including the Rock Lisbon 8 Wheel Hard Coral Cabin Case, now half price at £30 and the it Luggage 28L Backpack with 2 Wheels, now £40.