A holidaymaker was left stunned after being slapped with a hefty £96 fee by EasyJet for her hand luggage – despite it fitting in the overhead compartment. The passenger, who flew from London Gatwick, claimed her cabin bag was only slightly over the airline's size restrictions.
"I was horrified when they made me pay," she said. "My bag fit in the overhead locker with no issues, but because it didn't slide perfectly into their measuring frame, I had to cough up nearly £100."
How Strict Are EasyJet's Baggage Rules?
EasyJet's cabin baggage policy states that passengers can bring one small bag (max 45 x 36 x 20 cm) for free, but anything larger must be checked in for a fee. The airline insists these rules are clearly communicated during booking.
However, many travellers argue that enforcement can feel inconsistent – with some getting away with slightly oversized bags while others face steep penalties.
Top Tips to Avoid Extra Charges
- Measure before you fly: Use a tape measure to check your bag meets the exact dimensions
- Consider a collapsible bag: Some designs can compress to fit size requirements
- Weigh your options: Sometimes paying for checked luggage upfront works out cheaper
- Arrive early: Gives you time to repack if needed without stress
A spokesperson for EasyJet said: "Size restrictions ensure all passengers have space for their cabin baggage. We advise customers to check our baggage policy before travelling."
With budget airlines becoming increasingly strict on baggage rules, this serves as a warning to all travellers to double-check their luggage before heading to the airport.
