Ryanair hand luggage allowance
Some of the strictest hand luggage rules in Europe — and how to beat them.
Ryanair operates some of the strictest hand luggage rules in European aviation. Every fare includes one small under-seat bag at 40 × 30 × 20 cm — enlarged from the old 40 × 20 × 25 allowance, and now identical to Wizz Air's. Miss the size and the bag goes in the hold at gate prices.
The rules
- Every ticket includes 1 small personal item measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm (handles and wheels included), which must fit under the seat in front of you.
- For a second larger cabin bag (55 × 40 × 20 cm, up to 10 kg) you must buy Priority & 2 Cabin Bags — always cheaper online than at the airport.
- There is no published weight limit for the free small item, but it must physically fit into the metal sizer at the gate.
- A pre-booked 10 kg check-in bag has to be dropped at the bag desk — taking it to the gate costs around £46.
- An unbooked second bag or an oversized bag at the gate costs £70–£75.
Ryanair fees at a glance
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Free small personal item (40×30×20) | £0 |
| Priority & 2 Cabin Bags | £12–£36 online |
| 10 kg check-in bag | Varies by route and date — cheapest when booking |
| 20 kg check-in bag | Varies by route and date — cheapest when booking |
| Oversize / extra bag at the gate | £70–£75 |
Airline baggage fees and rules change frequently and can vary by route, travel date and when you book. Always check Ryanair's current official baggage policy before travelling.
Bags that fit — every time
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FAQ
What is Ryanair's exact free hand luggage size in 2026?+
40 × 30 × 20 cm including all handles, wheels and external pockets — enlarged from the previous 40 × 20 × 25. It must physically fit into the metal sizer at the gate with the lid closed.
Is there a weight limit on Ryanair's free bag?+
Ryanair publishes no weight limit for the free small personal item, but you must be able to handle it yourself. In practice, keep it under about 10 kg.
Can I bring a laptop bag AND a small backpack?+
No. Ryanair strictly counts everything as one item. Consolidate before you reach the gate — even a duty-free bag can trigger a fee.
What happens if my bag is 1 cm too big?+
You'll pay the gate fee (currently £70–£75) and the bag goes in the hold. Manufacturers often advertise internal dimensions — always buy on external dimensions.