Budget airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2 are intensifying checks on hand luggage, and travel experts have identified three common items that waste precious cabin bag allowance. Passengers who overpack or bring prohibited items risk incurring additional fees at the airport.
Three Items to Leave at Home
Matthew Corrigan, CEO of Trtl Travel, advised travellers to avoid packing hairdryers, towels, and toiletries. He stated: 'Avoid packing items that will be provided by the accommodation, such as hairdryers, towels, and toiletries. Only bring items you know you'll use, and try to share phone chargers and other technology wherever possible.'
Hairdryers are heavy, awkwardly shaped, and often unnecessary as most hotels and holiday rentals supply them. Towels are bulky and rarely needed unless staying somewhere that does not provide them, which is uncommon for standard accommodation. Toiletries not only add weight but also risk security issues with larger liquid containers; travel-sized alternatives or buying upon arrival are better choices.
Additional Packing Tips
For colder destinations, bulky garments such as coats and 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,' Matthew pointed out. 'This frees up space and ensures you don't get cold during the flight.'
With most budget airlines now offering only one small cabin bag free, the solution lies in packing more intelligently, not excessively. Overpacking is a common issue that can lead to fees, especially as airlines grow increasingly watchful.
