Here we’ll look at Ryanair's cabin baggage policy, so you can fly with confidence. We’ll focus on size limits and fees. Plus, we’ve got some handy tips to avoid extra charges too.

Ryanair cabin baggage allowance explained

Understanding Ryanair’s current policy

Ryanair's cabin baggage policy is designed to encourage passengers to travel light with options for those who need more luggage for their trip. While Ryanair’s free carry-on allowance of a small personal item (40 x 20 x 25cm) can be enough if you’re heading off for a long weekend, it might not be suitable for trips covering more than a few days.

If you need more, you can add an optional 10kg carry-on bag (55 x 40 x 20cm) with Priority Boarding. The exact cost may vary, so check on the airline’s website before you fly.

Ryanair cabin baggage size and weight limits

Ryanair’s hold luggage and extras

Beyond cabin baggage – checked bag options

Sometimes, you might need more than your Ryanair carry-on allowance. Whilst you can bring max 10kg on board, you have various options for hold luggage too.

You can choose to add either a 10kg or 20kg check-in bag to your booking, and you can even add up to three checked bags of up to 20kg per person if you’re planning on bringing a lot of luggage on your Ryanair flight.

You’re also permitted to take medical equipment such as dialysis machines on board your Ryanair flight. Sports equipment, bicycles and large sports items are also permitted (with a max. weight of 20kg or 30kg for bikes), but you should expect to pay a fee.

Maximising your Ryanair baggage allowance

Smart packing strategies

To make the most of your Ryanair luggage allowance and avoid fees at the airport, make sure you follow these smart packing strategies.

Take advantage of your Ryanair hand luggage allowance and make sure your under-seat bag carries all your necessities, such as your passport, money and electronic devices. So long as you’re within the Ryanair small cabin bag size limits (40 × 20 × 25 cm), there’s no charge for this.

Travel-size no longer just means a tiny shampoo and a squirt of suncream. There’s an amazing array of miniature items you can take on holiday these days, from mini hair straighteners that take up half the room of full-size pairs, to micro-fibre travel towels that fold away to the size of a tissue. Opting for these handy miniatures will help you make the most of your Ryanair luggage allowance.

Don’t forget the airport liquids rule when you’re buying travel toiletries. All travel liquid containers must be 100ml or less if you’re carrying them through security in your hand luggage. Sometimes it can work out cheaper to leave these at home and buy them at your destination or in the airport shops once you’re through security.

Understanding Ryanair’s carry-on restrictions is the best way to avoid unexpected fees and enjoy a smooth start to your trip. By ensuring your bags meet the airline’s restrictions before you travel, you can fly with confidence.