- Mr Plane Guy
- May 23
- 8 min read
Ryanair Baggage Allowance Rules for Passengers in 2025
By Flight and Travel Expert Mr Plane Guy
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Ryanair Baggage Allowance: Everything You Need to Know
Flying with Ryanair can be an absolute bargain, until you get hit with unexpected baggage fees. If you’ve ever stood at the gate, praying your bag isn’t too big or too heavy, you’re not alone. Ryanair is known for its strict baggage policies, and a little planning can save you from unnecessary charges. Let’s break down everything you need to know about Ryanair baggage rules so you can pack smart and avoid paying extra.
Ryanair’s Free Baggage Allowance
Ryanair is a budget airline, meaning that your ticket only covers the basics. But don’t worry, you do get to bring one small personal bag onboard for free. Here’s what you need to know:
Size: 40 x 20 x 25 cm
Weight: No official limit, but it must fit under the seat in front of you
Examples: A handbag, small backpack, or laptop bag
If you try to sneak in a slightly larger bag, be warned, Ryanair baggage weightchecks at the gate can result in hefty charges. Always measure your bag before heading to the airport!
Want to Bring a Bigger Bag? Priority Boarding is Key
If you need more than just a tiny under-seat bag, you’ll need to either purchase Priority & 2 Cabin Bags or check a bag. Here’s what Priority gets you:
One small personal bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm) under the seat
One cabin bag (55 x 40 x 20 cm) up to 10kg, stored in the overhead locker
First to board the plane via the Priority Queue
Cost: £6 - £36 (when booked online)
I've been using the Cabin Max Anode for over a year and it's the perfect fit for Priority Boarding where you get extra luggage allowance or as a paid carry on luggage item.
This is perfect if you have purchased to bring a bag onboard, or Ryanair Priority Boarding or even easyJet Speedy boarding.
I find this option for paying for a paid carry on bag on with low cost airlines is a great feature for me for trips up to a week away. Usually a-lot cheaper than buying hold luggage fee's. (Prices vary depending on which route and low cost airline flight.) Plus I can keep the bag with me and I don't have to stress at the luggage carousel! I take my 40L Cabin Max Anode and can fit plenty of items for a week away.
I've been using the Cabin Max Anode for over a year and it's the perfect fit for Speedy boarding or Priority Boarding where you get extra luggage allowance or as a paid carry on luggage item.
It is so light weight, it has 360 spinning wheels so I can push or pull it around the airport and place my small undereat bag on top of it. It has a well made lock to keep all my items secure. For the price as well it is excellent quality!
For those who need more space, the Cabin Max Anode 40L is a fantastic option.
Spacious and Lightweight: Perfect for trips up to 7 days, with enough room for clothing, toiletries, and extras.
Durable and Stylish: Available in various colours, so you can travel in style.
It's also a perfect fit for Ryanair, Voltea Priority or EasyJet Speedy Boarding: No worries about your bag arriving separately, as you can keep it with you.
The lightweight construction at only 2.5 kg also maximises what you can pack without compromising weight limits. For frequent travellers like myself, this means peace of mind, knowing that there won’t be any last-minute surprises at the gate.
Top Tip: if checking my bag into the hold I put an AirTag in my suitcase, check your bag has arrived at the destination, honestly it's a game changer!
Blog Post: Why You NEED an Apple AirTag in Your Luggage for Travel (And the New Feature That Makes It Even Better)
Ryanair Checked Baggage Options
If you prefer to check in your luggage, you have two choices:
10kg Checked Bag
Can be dropped off at check-in
Costs between £11.99 - £29.99 (online price)
Airport fee: £23.99 - £35.99
Gate fee: £46.00 (ouch!)
20kg Checked Bag
Perfect for longer trips
Costs between £20.99 - £59.99
Prices vary based on destination and demand
Before booking, always check Ryanair baggage fees to ensure you get the best deal.
How Strict is Ryanair with Baggage?
Short answer: VERY strict. If your bag is even slightly too big or heavy, expect to pay a fee. Ryan air baggage rules state that oversized or overweight bags must be checked in and it won’t be cheap.
Gate-checking an oversized cabin bag: £46.00
Overweight checked bag: £9 per extra kg
Top tip: Use a digital luggage scale to weigh your bag before leaving home!
Best Personal Size Under-seat Bags for Ryanair Flights
Finding the perfect bag that meets Ryanair’s strict requirements while being practical for your journey is crucial. Here are some top recommendations:
Cabin Max METZ 20L Underseat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
Now this bag perfectly Ryanair free personal baggage allowance you can get the bigger option 30L 45 x 36 x 20 cm to fly with EasyJet.
You can find more information about this bag Right Here
The Cabin Max METZ 20L is my go-to under seat bag for Ryanair flights. It’s perfectly sized for Ryanair free personal item allowance and comes packed with features:
Lightweight and Durable:Weighs only 500g, making it easy to carry around even when fully packed.
Comfortable for Travel: Extensive padding ensures comfort, whether you’re navigating airports or exploring your destination.
Organised Storage: Multiple compartments, including a front organiser pocket for travel documents, pens, and tickets, make staying organised a breeze.
Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled plastic bottles (Rpet polyester), it’s a sustainable choice for eco-conscious travellers.
This bag is also compatible with most major airlines, making it a versatile travel companion beyond Ryanair.
It comes in so many different colour options
The Metz 20L is also compliant with a vast amount of other carriers.
(The other carriers) My Metz on the back of Dave the camel in Morocco,
Yes 3 nights in Morocco with the Metz no problem!
You can keep everything super organised, I love that it is really padded well so it's very comfortable on your back all day long.
Again this comes in so many different colours.
You can also get it in a hybrid model with a carry pull handle so you can use it as a backpack or a pulling trolley bag!
The Cabin Max METZ 20L Under-Seat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
You can find more information about this bag Right Here
This bag is also compatible with most major airlines, making it a versatile travel companion beyond Ryanair.
it comes in so many different colour options
Ryanair Baggage Size 20kg & Other Options
If you’re planning to check in a 20kg suitcase, keep these points in mind:
Dimensions: No official limit, but standard checked luggage sizes apply
Excess baggage fees: £9 per kg if you go over 20kg
Additional bags: You can check up to 3 bags per person (fees apply)
For passengers traveling with sports equipment, musical instruments, or baby gear, Ryanair offers separate allowances, check their website for details.
Packing Tips to Avoid Extra Fees
Use an approved under-seat bag – Brands like Cabin Max make Ryanair baggag allowance-compliant bags that maximize space.
Wear bulky items – Save suitcase space by layering up on jackets and boots.
Roll, don’t fold – Rolling your clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles.
Pack a ‘Bag for Life’ – A reusable shopping bag from Boots can be handy for last-minute items.
Use packing cubes – Compression cubes keep things neat and compact.
Don't forget these handy Hand Luggage Regulation approved waterproof liquids wash bags.
Avoiding Last-Minute Baggage Fees at the Airport
Nothing ruins a cheap flight faster than unexpected baggage charges. Here’s how to avoid them:
Book baggage online – It’s always cheaper than paying at the airport.
Double-check your bag size – Measure it before you leave home.
Print/download your boarding pass – Avoid the £55 airport check-in fee.
Arrive early – If you need to check a bag, give yourself extra time.
Tips for travelling on low cost airlines with strict hand luggage rules
Use Compression Cubes: Maximize your packing space while keeping your belongings organized.
Wear Bulky Items: Save space in your luggage by wearing heavier items like jackets or boots.
Packing cubes to keep everything organised. If you have items spilling out of your luggage you are more likely to be asked to place your luggage in the sizer for checking by the gate staff!
Check out these packing cubes on Amazon.
Final Thoughts on Ryan Air Luggage Policy
Ryanair’s baggage policy is strict, but if you follow the rules, you can travel hassle-free and save money. Whether you’re packing light with an under-seat bag or bringing a 20kg suitcase, planning ahead is the key to a smooth trip.
So, next time you book a Ryanair flight, remember these tips, stick to the baggage rules, and enjoy your trip without the stress (or surprise fees)!
Safe travels!
Check out my Blogs on different Ryanair destinations
Airport Lounge Access: Start Your Holiday in Style
Complimentary drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Tasty snacks to keep you going
Wi-Fi to catch up on emails or browse before your flight
Comfortable seating to unwind before takeoff
If you love starting your holiday with a touch of luxury, this alone might make the upgrade worthwhile.
Want airport lounge access but at a reduced fee? I got you!
Priority Pass is the world's largest independent airport VIP lounge access program, with over 1,400+ lounges in over 600 cities across 148 countries! From just £69 for an annual pass.
The lovely people from priority Pass have offered me a 30% discount code making it just £48! Be quick this won't last long!! Use my link below.
Take a Look Here ( I get a tiny kickback BTW, thank you for the support )
TOP TIP: If two of you are travelling, just get one Priority Pass and the two of you will get into lounges at reduced fee's all year!
Plan Your Airport Parking: Booking in advance can make your journey more seamless.
Travel Tip: Get one of these phone holder clips and watch something on your phone hands free, it clips on to economy seats perfectly! They are so cheap and will really transform your economy flight experience!
Related Links
Ten Tips Before Travelling to Barcelona: Barcelona Travel Guide
The Ultimate Guide to 24 hours in Rome: Everything You Need to Know
Don’t Forget to Check in EARLY for Ryanair Flights or Risk Getting Bumped off!
Ryanair Cabin Bags: What You Need to Know
Ryanair Set to Revolutionise Check-In with a Fully Digital Experience
My Stay at Premier Inn London Stansted Airport: Hotel Review
The Perfect Cabin Bag for Travelling with Low Cost Airlines. Cabin Max carry on Luggage
Hello I’m Paul a travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
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