Cabin Baggage Rules for Major Airlines: What You Need to Know
Budget airlines offer an affordable way to explore the world, but navigating cabin baggage allowances can be a challenge for travellers. At peak times, airlines often enforce strict size checks with bag sizers at boarding gates, and exceeding limits can result in hefty fees. Since policies vary significantly between carriers and frequently update, even experienced fliers may find themselves caught out. Always verify the latest rules on the airline's official website before departure to avoid surprises. Remember, purchasing extra baggage in advance during booking is typically cheaper than paying for excess weight at the airport, so plan your packing realistically.
Ryanair's Updated Cabin Bag Policy
Passengers flying with Ryanair should carefully measure their luggage before heading to the airport. In a positive development, the budget airline has increased the size allowance for its free underseat bag included in basic fares. Previously limited to 40 x 25 x 20 cm, since summer 2025, Ryanair now permits bags up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. This item can be a handbag, backpack, laptop bag, or similar, as long as it fits under the seat in front. While there is no official weight limit, passengers must be able to carry it, and excessively heavy items might attract attention from flight crew.
For an additional fee, travellers can bring a second cabin bag measuring up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm, with a weight limit of 10KG, which must be stowed in the overhead locker. Checked baggage options include 10, 20, or 23KG bags, with prices varying by route and availability, and each item must not exceed 80 x 120 x 120 cm in size.
EasyJet's Strict Baggage Monitoring
EasyJet is known for rigorously enforcing cabin bag dimensions, often placing orange bag sizers around airports for pre-boarding checks. However, it's wise to measure at home to allow time for repacking if necessary. Ticket prices include one small underseat cabin bag up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm, with a weight limit of 15KG. Customers can add a second cabin bag of 56 x 45 x 25 cm, including handles and wheels, for a fee that also includes speedy boarding. Checked bags are available in 15, 23, or 32KG options, with a maximum total size under 275cm when length, width, and height are combined. Some flights offer twilight drop-offs, allowing luggage to be checked the night before an early departure.
Jet2's Consistent Allowance for All Travellers
Jet2 provides the same cabin baggage allowance for both package holiday and flight-only customers. This includes a small bag of 40 x 30 x 20 cm that must fit under the seat, plus a 10KG piece of hand luggage up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm. Package holiday customers benefit from 22KG of checked baggage included in their fare, while flight-only travellers can add this option for an extra charge. Passengers who prefer not to pack light can purchase up to three checked bags, each up to 22KG.
British Airways' Varied Baggage Policies
British Airways (BA) has more complex baggage rules due to its multiple ticket types. Travellers can use the airline's baggage calculator to determine precise allowances. Basic economy fares typically include a small bag up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm and a cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm. The smaller bag is guaranteed to stay with you onboard, while the cabin bag may be placed in the hold if overhead locker space is limited. Essential items like passports should be kept in the smaller bag. Checked baggage allowances vary by route and class; economy fares with checked bags include a 23KG piece up to 90 x 75 x 43 cm, with business and first class passengers enjoying larger allowances.
TUI's Allowance Based on Booking Type
For TUI, baggage rules depend on the type of travel booked. Flight-only passengers receive a 10KG piece of hand luggage up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm, plus a small personal item like a laptop bag or handbag up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. TUI emphasises that passengers must be able to lift their hand luggage into overhead compartments independently. Checked bags can be added during booking, and package holiday customers flying with TUI's airline get 20KG of checked baggage included. TUI BLUE and cruise customers may receive 25KG allowances, so it's advisable to check booking confirmations for specific perks.
