Ryanair's Strict Luggage Policies Lead to Hefty £400 Fine for Family
Ryanair passengers are urged to stay informed about the budget airline's stringent baggage regulations, following reports that a family of four incurred a £400 penalty due to a misunderstanding of the rules. Despite Ryanair's clear communication of its policies during booking and on its website, many travellers continue to be caught out by these strict guidelines.
Updated Baggage Allowances and Dimensions
As a budget carrier, Ryanair is renowned for its low fares but equally infamous for its rigorous luggage rules. A recent policy change has increased the size allowed for the free underseat bag included with even the most basic fares. Previously, bags were limited to 40 x 25 x 20 cm, but since last year, passengers can now bring a bag measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. This small item can be a laptop bag, handbag, rucksack, or any other item that fits within these dimensions to stow under the seat in front.
For an additional fee, which varies based on route and availability, passengers may bring a second cabin bag weighing up to 10kg. This bag must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20cm in size, and travellers are required to load it into the overhead locker themselves without assistance from flight crew. Checked luggage options are also available, with choices of 10kg, 20kg, and 23kg bags for those preferring to place items in the hold.
Family's Costly Mistake at the Airport
Despite these warnings, one family allegedly faced a £400 fee at the airport after failing to verify their bags' dimensions. A post on Which? Travel's Facebook page claimed the charge was applied during their return flight to the UK due to not checking the rules beforehand. In response to such incidents, Ryanair issued a statement advising passengers to avoid high fees by ensuring their bags meet the agreed dimensions. The airline emphasised that its sizers are larger than the permitted dimensions, so if a bag fits in the sizer, it is allowed on board; otherwise, it incurs a charge.
Expert Tips to Avoid Extra Costs
In a Which? report, travel experts provided guidelines to help passengers steer clear of additional expenses when flying with Ryanair. The primary recommendation is to confirm that your bag genuinely fits into the holder, as gate crew frequently check bag sizes. If bags do not fit the sizer, travellers risk being charged for extra luggage and potentially having their bag checked into the hold.
Do not rely solely on measurements provided by your bag's manufacturer. Instead, use a tape measure when the bag is fully packed, as luggage can become bulkier when filled, and ensure you include wheels and folded handles in your measurements. Ryanair's website cautions that passengers bringing an oversize bag (over 55x40x20cm) to the boarding gate may have their bag refused or, if available, placed in the hold for a fee ranging from £70 to £75. Bags must be left at the aircraft steps, in the gate bag trolley, or as directed by Ryanair agents for stowage.
The airline also warns that passengers must book a second cabin bag in advance if they intend to bring one, as there is no guarantee of acceptance at the gate. Non-priority customers who bring their 10kg check-in bag to the boarding gate may have it refused or placed in the hold for a fee between €46 and €60.
