Ryanair increases free carry-on allowance from today in a huge win for British holidaymakers

Ryanair drops 'game changing' subscription service that avoids hidden flying fees |

GB NEWS

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 04/09/2025

- 10:12

Holidaymakers can now take more for free when travelling with Ryanair

Ryanair passengers can now bring bigger bags on board for free, with the airline's new carry-on size limits taking effect today across all 235 European airports.

The budget carrier's free personal bags can now measure 40x30x20cm - a third larger than what EU regulations currently consider standard.


This rollout comes as European lawmakers are pushing for new rules that would guarantee passengers the right to bring small bags weighing up to 7kg on flights without extra charges.

Back in June, EU politicians voted to support this proposal, which would apply to all airlines operating in Europe, including budget carriers that currently charge for cabin luggage.

Couple happy at airport with luggage

Holidaymakers can now bring larger carry-on bags for free

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GETTY


The new dimensions mean passengers can fit more into their free bag, though it still needs to slide under the seat in front. Anyone wanting to bring a second carry-on bag will need to buy Priority Boarding, just like before.

The airline has updated all its bag sizers at airports to match these new measurements. Passengers who don't stick to the limits will face checked baggage fees at the gate.

These changes were first announced in July, giving travellers time to prepare for today's implementation across Ryanair's network.

The EU's proposed legislation, which lawmakers backed in June, would let travellers bring bags up to 100cm total dimensions plus a personal item measuring 40x30x15cm - smaller than what Ryanair now offers.

Ryanair's CMO Dara Brady said: "From today, Thursday, September 4, Ryanair's new, bigger free carry-on bag is now 33 per cent larger than the EU standard.

"Our bag sizers at all airports have now been "resized" to accommodate this bigger, free carry-on bag. All passengers wishing to bring a second carry bag can do so by availing of our Priority Boarding service, and passengers can also purchase check-in bags, should they so wish, during their booking process.

"We hope our customers will enjoy these bigger, free carry-on bag sizes, but any passenger who fails to comply with these new generous limits, will be required to pay the checked-in bag fee at the boarding gate."

Ryanair planes

The new allowance rolls out at European airports today

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RYANAIR

In more Ryanair news, the airline has announced new routes to top winter destinations. Holidaymakers can enjoy everything from traditional Christmas markets to sunny winter getaways.

The airline shared five new routes from London, with services from Luton to Wrocław, and four new routes from Stansted to Lübeck, Münster, Murcia and Trapani.

This means Ryanair now connects Stansted with more European destinations than are served from Heathrow, and offers lower fares on these routes.

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