Lorraine Williamson
Travelling with Ryanair has just become slightly easier for passengers—at least when it comes to hand luggage. From 4 September, the airline introduced a more generous allowance for free cabin bags, with new baggage meters rolled out across 235 airports in Europe to match the updated rules.
The permitted size for free carry-on bags is now 40x30x20 cm, an increase of 5 cm in depth compared with the old standard of 40x30x15 cm. That extra space—around 33% more capacity—means travellers can more comfortably fit laptops, jackets, food, or small purchases under the seat in front of them without facing extra charges.
To prevent confusion at the gate, Ryanair has physically replaced its old baggage meters. Passengers can now check dimensions themselves in the departure hall or at boarding, reducing the risk of unexpected fees.
Enforcement still strict
While the rules have softened, enforcement has not. Any bags that exceed the new allowance will still be redirected to the hold, with fees applied at the gate. In fact, Ryanair is doubling down on control by increasing financial incentives for staff.
From November, employees will earn €2.50 for every oversized bag they identify, up from €1.50. The previous cap of €80 a month will also be scrapped, allowing unlimited earnings from spotting non-compliant luggage. The move underlines Ryanair’s determination to maintain tight discipline, even as it offers passengers more room.
For those needing extra hand luggage, Priority Boarding remains the only way to bring a second cabin bag. Checked baggage options are still available, priced according to route and weight.
Ryanair cuts Spanish flights
Legal backdrop in Spain
The timing of Ryanair’s rule change is significant. In Spain, airline baggage policies have been under heavy scrutiny. Last November, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs fined Ryanair, along with Vueling, EasyJet, Norwegian, and Volotea, a combined €150 million for charging passengers extra for hand luggage and refusing cash payments.
Ryanair received the bulk of that penalty—€109 million. However, the fine is currently suspended following an appeal to the Supreme Court of Madrid, with a final ruling expected later this year.
A cautious win for travellers
For now, passengers gain a small but useful benefit: bigger free cabin bags and more transparency at airports. But with strict controls and financial incentives for enforcement, travellers should still measure carefully before heading to the gate.
Source: Hosteltur