New European Union regulations set to take effect in 2027 will require airlines to include a cabin bag in the ticket price for all flights within the EU, eliminating surprise baggage fees for passengers. The rule, agreed after nearly a decade of negotiations, aims to bring transparency to airfare pricing.
What the new rules mean
Under the agreement between the European Council and the European Parliament, every passenger on a European flight will be entitled to a cabin bag—such as a small wheeled suitcase—as part of their fare. In addition, travellers can bring one personal bag (measuring 40cm x 30cm x 15cm) that fits under the seat in front.
The change is designed to prevent airlines from advertising low base fares that rise significantly once luggage is added. The European Council stated: "To create price transparency, air fares including allowance for a piece of hand baggage shall be displayed by default before the start of any booking process to facilitate fare comparisons between airlines."
Impact on UK travellers
For British holidaymakers, the rules will apply only to flights returning from the EU to the UK, meaning outbound journeys on UK airlines like easyJet, British Airways, and Jet2 may still carry hand luggage fees. Aviation expert James Doyle (FRAeS) cautioned: "The rules apply most clearly to EU airlines and flights within the EU; long-haul, non-EU carriers, or certain UK–EU routes may have partial or delayed coverage."
Fares could also adjust as a result. Doyle explained: "Low-cost carriers will almost certainly raise standard ticket prices to recover lost revenue from baggage fees." He added: "The real saving depends on comparing the total cost (including any 'no wheeled bag' discount option). Light travellers who previously paid €20–60+ for priority/small cabin bags may benefit most; those who always flew with just a personal item might see little net gain or even pay more."
