Ryanair remains one of the most popular airlines for short-haul travel from the UK, thanks to its low fares and extensive route network. However, its baggage rules are still among the strictest in Europe. Going into 2026, understanding Ryanair’s bag size limits is essential if you want to avoid unexpected charges at the airport.
This guide explains Ryanair’s baggage allowances in plain English, looks at carry-on rucksacks, cabin bags and suitcases in detail, and compares Ryanair with other low-cost airlines operating in the UK.
Ryanair’s Free Baggage Allowance in 2026
Ryanair’s cheapest fares include one small personal bag only. This policy has been in place for several years and continues in 2026.
Small personal bag (included for free)
- Maximum size: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
- Must fit under the seat in front of you
This allowance is designed for light travellers and short trips. Typical examples of acceptable bags include:
- Small carry-on rucksacks
- Slim laptop backpacks
- Compact handbags or shoulder bags
If your bag fits comfortably under the seat, you will not be charged. If it does not, Ryanair staff may require it to be checked into the hold at the gate, often for a substantial fee.
Many luggage brands now sell backpacks marketed specifically as “Ryanair cabin bags”, but it is still worth checking the exact measurements, as even a few extra centimetres can cause problems.
Cabin Bags and Priority Boarding
Passengers who need to bring more than a small rucksack will need to upgrade their fare.
Priority and 2 Cabin Bags includes:
- One small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
- One larger cabin bag for the overhead locker
- Maximum size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
- Maximum weight: 10 kg
This option is popular with travellers using a small wheeled suitcase or a larger backpack. The cabin bag goes in the overhead locker while the smaller bag stays under the seat.
Priority boarding also means you board the aircraft earlier, reducing the risk of overhead lockers filling up. For busy routes and peak travel periods, this can make boarding much less stressful.
Checked Suitcases with Ryanair
If you are travelling for longer or need to pack bulkier items, Ryanair’s checked baggage options may be more suitable.
10 kg checked bag
- Checked in at the desk rather than carried on
- Often cheaper than Priority on certain routes
- Good option if you do not need fast boarding
20 kg checked bag
- Standard checked suitcase option
- Ideal for long holidays, family trips or winter travel
Checked bag prices vary depending on destination, season and how early you add the bag. Adding baggage during booking is almost always cheaper than doing so later.
What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Big?
Ryanair is known for enforcing its rules strictly. Bags are often measured at the gate, especially during busy travel periods.
If your bag exceeds the allowed size:
- You may be required to check it into the hold
- A gate bag fee can be applied
- Your journey becomes slower and more stressful
Soft-sided rucksacks can be particularly risky if overpacked, as they may bulge beyond the permitted dimensions even if the bag itself is designed to comply.
Carry-On Rucksacks vs Cabin Suitcases
Choosing the right bag can make a big difference when flying with Ryanair.
Carry-on rucksacks
- Ideal for free personal bag allowance
- Flexible and easier to squeeze under seats
- Best for short trips or minimalist packing
Cabin suitcases
- Require Priority or paid allowance
- Offer better organisation and protection
- Suitable for slightly longer trips
Travellers who fly Ryanair frequently often choose one good-quality rucksack that fits the free allowance to keep costs as low as possible.
Ryanair vs Other UK Low-Cost Airlines
Bag size rules vary significantly between airlines, and this can affect the true cost of your flight.
easyJet
- Free under-seat bag: 45 x 36 x 20 cm
- Slightly larger than Ryanair’s free allowance
- Larger cabin bag requires a paid upgrade unless you have easyJet Plus
easyJet is often seen as more forgiving for backpacks, which is useful for weekend trips.
Wizz Air
- Free personal bag: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
- Similar height and depth to Ryanair but wider
- Larger cabin bag requires Wizz Priority
Wizz Air’s policies are very similar to Ryanair’s, particularly on European routes.
Jet2
- Cabin bag included as standard
- Maximum size: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
- 10 kg weight limit
Jet2 fares are often higher, but the more generous luggage policy can offset the difference, especially for family travel.
How Much Money Does Ryanair Make From Baggage Charges?
Industry figures show just how profitable baggage fees have become for low-cost airlines, particularly when passengers are charged at the airport. Ryanair reported €4.7 billion in ancillary revenue in its most recent financial year, accounting for roughly a third of its total income, with baggage fees being one of the largest contributors.
Across Europe’s major budget airlines, travellers are estimated to have spent over €10 billion in 2024 alone on cabin and checked baggage charges, many of them applied at the airport where fees are highest. Ryanair is the biggest earner in this area, followed by easyJet with around €2.2 billion in baggage-related revenue, while Wizz Air and Vueling each generate over €1 billion from similar charges.
These figures underline why airlines are so strict with bag sizes at the gate, as airport luggage charges can amount to several thousand euros per flight and represent one of the most reliable profit streams in the low-cost aviation model.
Is Ryanair Still Worth It in 2026?
Ryanair can still offer excellent value if you:
- Travel light with a rucksack or small bag
- Understand the baggage rules clearly
- Add any required bags early in the booking process
For short-haul city breaks and UK to Europe routes, Ryanair remains one of the cheapest options when luggage is managed carefully.
If you are travelling on a budget, or are unsure of what to take on your next trip, it's probably best to follow this advice.
If you're travelling for a couple of nights away such as Liverpool to Paris, you might get away with their free bag allowance, for a longer weekend break, such as Manchester to Barcelona, or London to Rome, it might be worth upgrading your fare to add on the cabin bag.
For travellers who are going away for a week or two, a larger hold case will more likely be required. If you're visiting somewhere like Edinburgh to Madrid for a week with the family, a hold case is a must.
Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees
- Measure your bag before travelling
- Avoid hard-shell cases that exceed size limits
- Do not overstuff soft rucksacks
- Book Priority or checked baggage in advance if unsure
A little planning can save a surprising amount of money. Get started and plan your next trip with Timms Travel!