From October 23, 2027, passengers flying within Europe on budget airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet will be entitled to take one personal item into the cabin for free. The new rule, published in the EU's Official Journal on October 2, applies to all EU flights and is designed to make baggage allowances clearer and flight prices easier to compare before booking.
What the New Rule Includes
The free personal bag must measure no more than 40cm x 30cm x 15cm, or be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. This could be a handbag or a small rucksack. Airlines must display fares that automatically include an allowance for a piece of hand luggage by default before the booking process starts.
However, carriers are still allowed to offer cheaper fares without that allowance included, meaning it remains the passenger's responsibility to double-check what is actually included in their ticket. Airlines will still be entitled to set their own baggage policies and offer different prices for travellers who choose to fly without a larger hand-luggage allowance.
Key Limitations and Departure Catch
The update does not establish a single EU-wide size or weight allowance for a larger cabin suitcase. Individual airlines will still hold flexibility over their wider baggage policies. If safety or space concerns arise on the day, small bags may still be required to be moved down to the hold, though no extra charges will be added.
Crucially for UK jet-setters, the rules are based on where the flight departs from and will only apply to passengers departing from airports inside the EU. This means that just because a flight is leaving the UK, it will not automatically be covered simply because it is heading to an EU destination.
Impact on UK Passengers
For many Brits, the departure airport will be crucial when checking extra baggage charges. Passengers are strongly advised to continue checking the baggage allowance and fee rules for every individual flight and return journey.
