Passengers flying with budget airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, and British Airways are being warned to leave three specific items out of their hand luggage to avoid unexpected charges at the airport. Travel experts say that hairdryers, towels, and bulky toiletries are the most common culprits that can lead to overpacking and additional fees.
Airlines Are Tightening Hand Luggage Policies
Matthew Corrigan, CEO of Trtl Travel, noted: "Airlines such as Ryanair, British Airways, easyJet and Jet2 are cracking down on hand luggage passengers." With many carriers now offering only a single small cabin bag free of charge, space is extremely limited. Corrigan advises travellers to pack cleverly rather than excessively.
The appeal of travelling light is strong, as it allows passengers to avoid checked baggage fees. However, even minor packing mistakes can result in costly surprises at the gate. Airlines are known to enforce strict size and weight limits, and overpacking can lead to charges or having to check the bag at the last minute.
Items to Leave Behind
Corrigan specifically warns against packing items that are likely provided by accommodation. "Avoid packing items that will be provided by the accommodation, such as hairdryers, towels, and toiletries," he said. Hairdryers are bulky and awkwardly shaped, and most hotels and rental properties provide them as standard. Towels are another bulky item best avoided unless staying somewhere that doesn't supply them, which is now rare for standard accommodation.
Toiletries and Bulkier Clothing
Toiletries not only add weight but also create problems at security if containers exceed liquid limits. Travel-sized alternatives or buying toiletries upon arrival are better choices, and passengers should use freebies provided by hotels. For colder destinations, bulky garments like coats or thick jumpers should be worn onto the plane rather than packed. "It's best to wear large items such as jumpers and coats onto the plane rather than packing them," Corrigan highlighted. "This frees up space and ensures you don't get cold during the flight."
By rethinking these everyday essentials, travellers can avoid unnecessary fees and make the most of limited hand luggage space.
