What free baggage allowance is included with Ryanair?

With Ryanair , you can bring one piece of cabin baggage measuring 40 x 30 x 20 cm free of charge. This bag must be placed under the seat in front of you on the plane, and this is free of charge, regardless of the type of ticket chosen.

Whether you choose a small bag, a cabin suitcase with wheels, or a compact carry-on like those offered by Amazon Basics , understanding Ryanair's cabin baggage policy is essential. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises at boarding. Stay with us to discover everything you need to know about permitted sizes, features such as wheels, handles, and much more!

Key points to remember about free baggage with Ryanair

Key point	Ryanair Rule 2026	Check before going to the airport
Free baggage included	1 small carry-on bag to be placed under the seat	It should fit properly under the seat, without forcing it.
Free baggage dimensions	40 x 30 x 20 cm	Measure accurately at home
Wheels and handles	Included in the dimensions	Beware of rigid suitcases with protruding wheels.
Free baggage weight	No official limit has been announced for small under-seat luggage.	Avoid a bag that is too heavy to carry; opt for a comfortable model.
2nd cabin bag	Only with the Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option	Check that the option is indeed on the reservation
Format of the 2nd piece of luggage (with priority)	55 x 40 x 20 cm and 10 kg max , placed in the compartments above	Weigh the suitcase if you are close to 10 kg
Controls and fees	Enhanced controls, fees charged at the door if non-compliant	Test the size and don't travel at the "limit" in dimensions
Best cost-cutting strategy	Choose a soft and ultra-compact bag that meets the dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20 cm	If you're unsure, choose flexible over rigid.

Free Hand Luggage: What You Can Take

Personal Items: Size and Restrictions

In addition to your main cabin bag , you can bring a small personal item , such as a handbag or slim suitcase, free of charge. This bag must fit under the seat in front of you in the Ryanair cabin. With a suitable choice, you might even be able to bring a free suitcase with Ryanair, depending on their permitted dimensions. The permitted dimensions are flexible, making it ideal for carrying your essentials . This bag is accepted regardless of the ticket type you have chosen with this low-cost airline.

Tips for Maximizing Carry-on Luggage Space

To maximize every inch of your Ryanair cabin bag , roll your clothes instead of folding them. This tip not only prevents creases but also frees up valuable space in your luggage.

Use compression bags or vacuum bags to reduce the volume of bulky items. Packing cubes are also very practical for organizing your clothes, underwear, and toiletries while maintaining the structure of your suitcase.

For optimal packing, fill your shoes with socks or belts. Place heavy items, like your toiletry bag, at the bottom of the suitcase near the wheels. Use the remaining small spaces to pack accessories like your chargers or other small items in an organized, Tetris-like fashion.

Remember to pack your warmest clothes for your trip. Opt for a soft-sided suitcase weighing less than 2 kg empty to make your journey through the airport easier. Finally, plan your outfits in advance to travel light and stress-free with Ryanair.

Expected Changes to Ryanair's Baggage Policy for 2026

New Authorized Dimensions and Weights

Ryanair has already set the size of free personal baggage at 40 x 30 x 20 cm . This standard will remain in place for 2026, with the clarification that wheels and handles must be included in the declared dimensions. This means that compact wheeled suitcases must adhere to these dimensions to be placed under the seat.

The low-cost carrier retains the option of allowing a second carry-on bag , but only for passengers who have opted for the "Priority Boarding" option. This second bag, often a standard carry-on suitcase, remains subject to a weight limit (generally 10 kg ) and larger dimensions when permitted.

Restrictions and Exceptions

Ryanair is stepping up its checks for oversized baggage at the gates. Additional charges may apply if a bag exceeds the permitted dimensions. Staff are encouraged to spot excess baggage, and penalties may be imposed at the gate if your bag does not meet the size requirements.

However, practical exceptions remain: although the majority of passengers comply with the cabin baggage size restrictions, Ryanair continues to offer paid solutions. These options include checking a suitcase in the hold or purchasing the priority option for travelers with larger or additional baggage.

Impact of Policy Changes on Passengers

Considerations for Choosing Luggage

These adjustments encourage Ryanair passengers to opt for ultra-compact luggage models, such as Amazon Basics suitcases or soft-sided bags. These options are perfectly suited to meet Ryanair's cabin baggage requirements, thus avoiding any risk of non-compliance during enhanced security checks.

Since wheels and handles are now included in the permitted dimensions, it is recommended to choose lightweight and flexible cabin baggage. This can be easily slipped under the seat, ensuring maximum comfort during your low-cost flights with Ryanair.

Strategies to Avoid Additional Costs

To avoid unexpected fees, consider purchasing the priority boarding option with your ticket if you are travelling with an extra carry-on bag. This allows you to bring a standard suitcase into the cabin at no extra charge at the gate.

Before heading to the airport, always check the dimensions of your cabin baggage using Ryanair's official size charts. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to contact customer service to confirm that your baggage complies with the regulations. This precaution will allow you to travel with peace of mind with this low-cost airline.

Comparison with the Current and Future Baggage Policy

Changes to Ryanair's Baggage Policy

Before September 2025 , Ryanair's free personal baggage allowance was limited to dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15 cm . This already restrictive standard has been replaced by a new measurement of 40 x 30 x 20 cm , applied at all European airports. This change represents a 33% increase compared to the initial European standard, thus offering greater flexibility to travelers.

No major changes are planned for 2026. Ryanair will continue to implement these increased dimensions while strengthening controls. The airline encourages its staff to detect excess baggage by offering increased bonuses, rising from €1.50 to €2.50 per non-compliant bag, with no monthly limit.

How to Prepare for Change

To avoid any inconvenience, measure your luggage accurately, including wheels and handles, using the templates that have been in place since September 2025. Test them at home to ensure they meet the permitted dimensions before going to the airport.

If needed, consider booking the priority boarding option, available for between €8 and €12 , for a smoother baggage experience. Finally, keep an eye out for official Ryanair announcements regarding any updates to cabin baggage rules before your 2026 trips.

Tips for travelling with Ryanair in 2026

Choosing the Right Luggage

To avoid any surprises at boarding, choose carry-on luggage that meets the official dimensions: 40 x 20 x 25 cm for the small bag under the seat. This is especially important if you are traveling without priority boarding.

If you wish to bring a larger cabin bag, consider purchasing the "Priority & 2 Cabin Bags" option. This allows you to add a 10 kg suitcase ( 55 x 40 x 20 cm ) which will be placed in the overhead compartments of the cabin.

Opt for a lightweight, flexible model with wheels and discreet handles for easy storage under the seat. Amazon Basics suitcases or soft-sided bags are often good choices for Ryanair passengers.

Strategic Preparation and Packaging

Before you leave, check the volume and weight of your luggage. Use scales and a homemade measuring template to ensure the dimensions are correct, in order to avoid extra charges at the boarding gate.

To stay under the 10kg limit if you have an extra cabin bag, distribute heavy items (such as batteries or full toiletries) in your small personal bag , which is not subject to weight checks.

Maximize space in your suitcase with packing cubes or compression bags . Also consider filling your shoes with small items to save space while still respecting the size restrictions.

If you are unsure about exceptions to the baggage policy (for example, for medical baggage, a stroller, or a musical instrument), contact Ryanair customer service before your departure. Request written confirmation to avoid any misunderstandings at the airport.

Conclusion

In summary, with Ryanair in 2026, you'll enjoy one free cabin bag measuring 40x30x20 cm, including wheels and handles. This size is more spacious than the European standard. You can also add a second bag by opting for priority boarding , for a cost of 8 to 12 euros.

To avoid extra charges, be sure to measure your suitcases or bags accurately , such as those in the Amazon Basics range. Consider rolling your clothes to maximize space and try out the packing templates provided by the airline. This low-cost policy truly simplifies your travels!

So, take action now: check your luggage, book your flight with Ryanair, and enjoy a light and stress-free journey. Have a great trip with this leading European airline!

FAQ

What are the exact dimensions of the free baggage allowed by Ryanair in 2026?

The exact dimensions of the free baggage allowed by Ryanair are 40 x 30 x 20 cm . This policy, implemented in September 2025, remains valid in 2026. This baggage must fit under the seat.

Is there a weight limit for free cabin baggage with Ryanair in 2026?

No, there is no official weight limit for free cabin baggage with Ryanair in 2026. This bag (dimensions: 40 x 30 x 20 cm) simply needs to fit under the seat. The current policy, which will be implemented in 2025, only controls the size.

How to get a second cabin bag with Ryanair in 2026?

To benefit from a second cabin bag with Ryanair in 2026, simply subscribe to the Priority Boarding option, available for between €8 and €12. This option includes:

• A free personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) under the seat.
• One additional piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 10 kg (55 x 40 x 20 cm) in the cabin.

What are the consequences if my luggage exceeds the free dimensions at Ryanair in 2026?

If your baggage exceeds Ryanair's permitted dimensions (40 x 30 x 20 cm) in 2026, it will not be accepted as free baggage. You will then be required to pay high fees to check your baggage at the boarding gate.

To avoid these fees, consider the Priority option, which allows you to bring a second piece of cabin baggage (dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20 cm).