With the half term holiday fast approaching, thousands of families across the UK are preparing to jet off for a well-earned break. However, navigating the often confusing and frequently changing cabin baggage rules of major airlines can turn pre-flight excitement into stressful airport gate drama. Being caught out by a bag sizer can result in hefty last-minute fees, turning a budget flight into an unexpectedly expensive journey.
The Importance of Checking Baggage Rules Before You Fly
Cabin baggage allowances are a notorious pain point for travellers, particularly on budget airlines where enforcement is strict. On busy flights, it is common to see airport staff deploying the dreaded bag sizers at the gate. Being over by even a single centimetre can mean you are forced to pay a significant fee to check your bag into the hold at the last minute.
To make matters more complex, these size allowances are subject to change, meaning even seasoned frequent flyers can get caught out. It is always prudent to double-check the specific dimensions of the cabin bag included with your ticket shortly before departure. This simple step can save considerable hassle, time, and money at the airport. Furthermore, it is almost universally cheaper to pay for any extra baggage allowance during the initial booking process online, rather than at the airport where prices are inflated.
A Detailed Comparison of Major Airline Policies
Ryanair: A Slight Increase for Free Bags
Ryanair is infamous for its rigorous enforcement of cabin baggage sizes. Passengers should always measure their bags at home before travelling to ensure compliance. However, there is positive news for those flying with the budget carrier. The free underseat bag included in its basic fare has recently been enlarged.
Previously, this small bag had to fit a sizer measuring 40 x 25 x 20 cm. Since summer 2025, the permitted dimensions have increased to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. This free bag must stow under the seat in front and is typically used for items like handbags, laptop bags, or small rucksacks. While there is no official weight limit, the bag must be manageable for the passenger to handle, and excessively heavy items may attract attention from cabin crew.
For an additional fee, passengers can bring a second, larger cabin bag measuring up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm, with a strict 10KG weight limit. Passengers must be able to lift this bag into the overhead locker themselves. Checked baggage options of 10KG, 20KG, or 23KG are also available, with prices varying by route.
EasyJet: Strict Monitoring with Clear Options
EasyJet is another budget airline known for strictly monitoring bag sizes, with its distinctive orange sizers a common sight at airports. All passengers get one small underseat cabin bag included, with maximum dimensions of 45 x 36 x 20 cm and a weight limit not exceeding 15KG.
Customers can opt to book a second, larger cabin bag measuring up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm (including handles and wheels). Booking this larger bag also includes the benefit of speedy boarding. For hold luggage, EasyJet offers the option to pay for up to three checked bags of 15KG, 23KG, or a substantial 32KG. Some airports also provide a convenient twilight bag drop service for early morning flights.
Jet2: Generous Allowances for Package Holidays
Jet2 provides consistent cabin baggage allowances whether you book a flight-only ticket or a package holiday. The fare includes two pieces: a small underseat bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) and a 10KG piece of hand luggage measuring up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm (dimensions must include all fixtures).
Package holidays include 22KG of checked baggage, while flight-only customers can add up to three 22KG checked bags for a fee. Families travelling with young children benefit from free carriage of a collapsible pushchair, car seat, and/or travel cot.
British Airways: Two Cabin Bags in Basic Economy
British Airways offers a more generous cabin baggage allowance in its basic economy fare. It includes two pieces: a small under-seat item (max 40 x 30 x 15 cm) and a cabin bag (max 56 x 45 x 25 cm). However, BA only guarantees the smaller item will remain in the cabin; overhead space is not assured, and the larger bag may be placed in the hold if necessary.
Its 'Economy with checked bag' fare includes a 23KG hold bag, which uniquely has a size restriction of 90 x 75 x 43cm. Business and first-class passengers enjoy significantly larger allowances.
TUI: Varies by Booking Type
For TUI Airways flight-only bookings, passengers receive a free 10KG piece of hand luggage (max 55 x 40 x 20 cm) plus a small personal item (max 40 x 30 x 20cm). Passengers must be able to lift their own luggage into the overhead lockers.
Checked bags can be added for a fee. However, package holidays with TUI include 20KG of checked luggage, with certain holiday types like TUI BLUE or cruises offering a 25KG allowance. Always check your specific booking confirmation for details.
Final Advice for Stress-Free Travel
The key to avoiding baggage fees and gate-side stress is preparation. Always measure your bags when fully packed at home, using the airline's most up-to-date guidelines. Book any extra baggage online well in advance of your travel date to secure the best price. With these simple steps, you can ensure your half term getaway begins smoothly, leaving you free to focus on enjoying your holiday.
