Ryanair hand luggage allowance
Europe's strictest hand luggage rules — and how to beat them.
Ryanair operates some of the strictest hand luggage rules in European aviation. Every fare includes just 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 by a single centimetre and you'll pay a £60 fine at the gate.
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 — typically £6–£25 depending on route, always cheaper online than at the gate.
- There is no strict weight limit for the free small item, but it must physically fit into the metal cage at the gate.
- Family seat allocation for children under 12 is free (post-2026 CMA ruling — no more mandatory £8 fee).
- Bringing an unbooked second bag or a bag that doesn't fit = £60 gate fine, no exceptions.
Ryanair fees at a glance
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Free small personal item | £0 |
| Priority + 2 cabin bags | £6–£25 online |
| 10 kg checked bag | £12–£25 online |
| 20 kg checked bag | £25–£45 online |
| Oversize / extra bag at gate | £60 fine |
Bags that fit — every time
Check any bag against Ryanair's exact dimensions
Enter your bag's outside measurements and we'll tell you instantly whether it passes — free, no login needed.
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?+
Officially there is no weight limit on the free small personal item, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead area without staff assistance. In practice this means 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 plastic bag will trigger a fee.
What happens if my bag is 1 cm too big?+
You'll be charged a £60 fine at the gate and the bag placed in the hold. Bag manufacturers often advertise 'internal' dimensions — always buy based on external dimensions.