Ryanair is set to increase its underseat bag allowance by 20%. This change comes after new EU proposals aimed at allowing more free baggage for travelers. Currently, Ryanair lets passengers bring a small personal bag, like a handbag or a small backpack, that fits under the seat in front of them at no extra cost.
The new maximum size for this bag will rise from 40x25x20 cm to 40x30x20 cm. While this only adds 5 cm in one dimension, it increases the bag’s volume from 20 liters to 24 liters. This extra space could help travelers fit in a few more essentials, like T-shirts or pants.
Despite this improvement, Ryanair’s allowance still falls short compared to its main competitor, easyJet, which permits bags measuring 45x36x20 cm, equating to 32 liters. WizzAir has already adopted the same dimensions as Ryanair’s new allowance.
Ryanair announced that this updated bag policy will be rolled out in the coming weeks as they adjust their airport bag sizers. The airline noted that this change would exceed the EU’s suggested minimum size for free bags. Recently, EU lawmakers proposed that travelers should be allowed a bag measuring at least 40x30x15 cm, along with an additional larger bag of up to 100 cm and weighing 7 kg without incurring extra fees.
This shift in baggage policy represents a significant change in the budget airline sector, where many companies typically charge extra for larger bags placed in overhead compartments or checked luggage. Additionally, European politicians are advocating for more passenger protections, such as ensuring that children under 12 can sit next to their guardians at no additional cost and providing free travel for companions of individuals with reduced mobility.
Ryanair has expressed concern about these proposals, emphasizing that travelers should have the choice to determine what services they pay for. Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, these rules will still affect British passengers using EU-based airlines.
These proposals must be approved by the full European Parliament before becoming law, but if implemented, they could change the way budget airlines operate, particularly regarding baggage fees.