Ryanair’s new hand luggage rule is set to come into effect in the coming weeks
Ryanair passengers have been advised to pop a bit of cardboard into their carry-ons following the airline’s announcement on Thursday. The budget carrier confirmed it will boost its “personal bag” size by 20% due to new EU regulations.
Ryanair said that, soon, passengers will be able to bring a larger bag on board, measuring up to 40cm x 30cm x 20cm, without having to pay additional fees. The bag must weigh under 10kg and fit “under the seat in front you.”
With the new bag dimensions set to roll out in the upcoming weeks, packing expert Tom Schott from Schott Packaging is warning travellers against a potentially expensive error, as he thinks the increased allowance might tempt people to overstuff their bags.
READ MORE: 1,500 flights cancelled amid holiday chaos including EasyJet, Ryanair and moreREAD MORE: Spain travel warning for Brits who use cash abroad as Euro note ‘no longer accepted’
Tom said: “The new dimension is a game-changer, but only if you use it wisely. The mistake is to simply cram more in. The real victory for passengers is using that volume to pack with structure. A well-packed bag is a compliant bag.”
One of Tom’s many tips to avoid this is to pack some cardboard. He explained: “Soft bags lose volume. A lightweight, snug-fitting cardboard box inside your bag provides a rigid frame, allowing you to use every corner and prevent the bulge that attracts gate staff.”
He also recommends using sealable bags to maximise space, organising items into smaller compartments, and safeguarding valuables. Tom added: “Place a small, sturdy box in the centre of your bag, cushioned by clothes.
READ MORE: Ryanair charges woman £100 after she refuses to leave boyfriend at airportREAD MORE: EasyJet passengers can end up paying up to 289% more for in-flight booze
“This creates a crush-proof zone for chargers, adapters, and toiletries, preventing damage and leaks.” Travellers are also encouraged to “pre-plan your bag”, with Tom suggesting you lay out all your items on the floor within a 40cm x 30cm outline first, as this “provides a real-world view of what fits and helps you assemble your packed modules logically and quickly.”
Tom further explained: “These aren’t just clever tricks, but core principles of efficient packing. By applying them, you can confidently pack that extra outfit and still breeze through the boarding gate”.