Ryanair has rolled out a significant and costly change to its cabin baggage policy, catching many unsuspecting British holidaymakers off guard. The budget airline has introduced a new, stricter size checker at departure gates, and the penalty for non-compliance is a wallet-draining £69.
The new policy mandates that all non-priority boarding passengers must place their carry-on bag into a revised size gauge before boarding. This isn't a gentle reminder; it's a strict enforcement measure. If your bag does not fit seamlessly into the sizer, you will be refused permission to take it on board and face an instant £69 charge to check it into the aircraft's hold.
What Are the Exact Ryanair Cabin Bag Dimensions?
The rules are precise and allow for no wiggle room. To pass the test, your bag must meet the following dimensions:
- Maximum dimensions: 40cm x 20cm x 25cm
- This includes the wheels and handles – every part of the bag must fit within the frame.
- The previous, slightly larger allowance is now completely void at the gate.
This small bag is the only item permitted for non-priority travellers. The option to bring a second, larger wheelie case on board, which was previously available for a fee, has been entirely eliminated.
The High Cost of Getting It Wrong
The financial incentive for Ryanair is clear. The £69 gate fee is substantially higher than the cost of adding a checked bag during the online booking process. This move is widely seen as a new revenue stream, penalising those who either misunderstand the rules or hope to chance their arm at the gate.
Passengers who have paid for priority boarding, which typically costs between £6 and £38, are exempt from this last-minute check. They are permitted one small bag and a standard 10kg wheelie case in the cabin.
How to Avoid the Ryanair Baggage Fee
For UK travellers looking to avoid this steep penalty, following these steps is crucial:
- Measure your bag accurately at home before heading to the airport. Do not rely on old assumptions.
- Consider purchasing priority boarding if you need to bring more than a tiny suitcase. This is often cheaper than the £69 gate fee.
- Pre-pay for a checked bag online if you know your bag is oversized. This is the most cost-effective method.
- Pack lightly and efficiently, using soft-sided bags that are more flexible and can be squeezed into the sizer.
The message from Ryanair is unequivocal: measure before you fly, or pay the price at the gate. This policy shift underscores the airline's commitment to its low-cost model, transferring operational efficiencies and potential delays into a direct revenue charge from non-compliant passengers.
