easyJet passengers have been warned about a common baggage mistake that could lead to unexpected charges, just as the summer holiday season reaches its peak. The airline's policy on cabin bags can catch travellers off guard if they are not aware of the specific size and placement requirements.
What You Need to Know About easyJet's Baggage Rules
Every easyJet passenger is entitled to bring one small bag on board free of charge, provided it fits under the seat in front of them. If the bag does not fit, passengers may be required to pay an additional fee. Overhead locker space is limited and often comes at a cost, so it is worth considering whether a checked bag offers better value.
The easyJet website states: 'Our low fares include one small cabin bag free of charge. Your bag can weigh up to 15kg, but we do ask that you're able to lift and carry it yourself. You can purchase additional bags online when you make your booking or any time before you travel, via Manage bookings on our website or mobile app. Buying online is always cheaper than at the airport. Fees vary depending on the route selected, flight and time of booking.'
According to Ricky Durrance, travel expert at Teletext Holidays, understanding how easyJet's baggage rules work can save money and help your baggage allowance go further. 'It's also worth knowing that booking your baggage allowance sooner rather than later can help save you money,' he said.
What Many Travellers Forget
Managing your baggage allowance can be challenging, especially when the suitcase itself takes up a significant portion of the weight limit. easyJet's large cabin bag allowance allows for up to 15kg, but many hard-shell cabin cases weigh between 3.5kg and 4.5kg before packing. This means the usable space for clothing and belongings can be much less than expected, often leaving only around 10.5kg available for packing.
By comparison, a shared 23kg checked bag using a similar-weight case still leaves more than 18.5kg available for packing, which can make a significant difference. For couples and friends travelling together, it is worth doing the maths to see whether sharing a checked suitcase makes more sense before booking.
How to Make the Most of Your Luggage
When airlines charge extra for every kilogram and each bag, careful planning is essential. Ricky Durrance recommends several strategies to maximise your baggage allowance:
- Check the baggage allowances of the airlines heading to your destination and compare options to find the best value.
- If booking a package holiday, check baggage options as part of the booking process, as the right combination can significantly impact overall cost. A travel expert can help identify the best-value options.
- Before booking additional cabin luggage, compare the cost of sharing one checked suitcase.
- Always book your baggage in advance to get the very best price.
- Invest in a lightweight suitcase to maximise your baggage allowance without spending extra.
easyJet's baggage fees are usually lower when added at the time of booking rather than closer to departure. For those booking a package holiday, it is worth checking this as early as possible, ideally at the time of booking. Additionally, fees for large cabin bags can be higher during peak travel periods, so early booking is especially important during the summer season.
