Starting this summer, travellers flying within Europe can expect clearer, more unified rules about what they are allowed to bring on board for free. No more unpleasant surprises at the gate or confusing differences between airlines: the European Union is determined to end the chaos of inconsistent baggage rules, which have long caused frustration. New guidelines aim to give passengers more space in their personal items and create uniform standards across airlines. But what exactly is changing – and what still isn’t fully clear?
Guaranteed size for personal items
The European airline association Airlines for Europe (A4E) recently confirmed that its member airlines are working toward a guaranteed standard for the personal item – the smaller bag you place under the seat in front of you. From now on, the standard will be 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches). That’s about the size of a medium backpack, laptop bag, or large purse. Airlines will no longer be allowed to impose smaller limits. For travelers, this means less stress when packing and a smaller risk of surprise fees at the gate.
Until now, some airlines like Ryanair enforced stricter limits. Thanks to the new rules, travelers gain up to 20% more space. According to A4E, the measure should be fully implemented across all participating airlines by the end of the 2025 summer season. So this summer, it’s still a good idea to double-check your airline’s policy before flying.
Ryanair expands carry-on size following EU pressure
In response to the EU’s plans, Ryanair is adapting its policy ahead of schedule. The low-cost carrier recently announced that travelers will soon be allowed to bring a free bag measuring 40 x 30 x 20 cm -offering 4 more liters of volume than before. While that may sound minor, Ryanair says it’s enough to fit an extra pair of shoes or a few T-shirts.
Still, Ryanair’s allowance remains smaller than that of competitors like easyJet, which permits a free item of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (32 liters). Wizz Air matches Ryanair’s new dimensions. Ryanair says it will implement the change once baggage sizers at airports are updated.
Interestingly, Ryanair claims its new size already exceeds the EU’s proposed minimum standard. However, the airline is also critical of European regulation: “Passengers should be free to choose what they want to pay for – and more importantly, what they don’t,” said a spokesperson.
What about small trolley bags?
The EU’s plan doesn’t stop with the personal item. It also proposes that passengers should be allowed to bring a small carry-on trolley bag of up to 7 kilograms for free. Currently, this varies widely by airline: Brussels Airlines allows 8 kg, TUI fly up to 10 kg. Sometimes it’s included in the ticket price, but with budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air, it often requires an extra fee.
These discrepancies often lead to confusion and frustration, especially for travellers who fly with multiple airlines. A uniform policy would offer much-needed clarity. However, not everyone in the aviation industry supports this idea.
Checked baggage is becoming increasingly expensive, making carry-on luggage more popular than ever. But beware: even a slight size deviation can lead to additional charges. Some trolley suitcases are just a bit too large for the overhead bins, unless you remove the wheels. A suitcase with detachable wheels is therefore ideal. It helps you avoid unpleasant surprises or arguments at the gate. Choosing smart luggage like this not only saves money but also offers peace of mind during travel. It ensures smoother boarding, better compliance with airline regulations, and ultimately a more stress-free experience.
Airlines push back: “Nothing is ever really free”
While these changes may sound like good news for passengers, airlines see both logistical and financial downsides. There simply isn’t enough space on board for every passenger to bring an extra cabin bag. Even now, gate-checking is common, leading to arguments and delays.
More hand luggage on board also means longer boarding times, more staff needed to help stow bags, and ultimately more delays – which cost airlines serious money. As a result, it’s likely that airlines will respond by raising ticket prices or tightening rules for those who want to bring more luggage.
Low-cost airlines in particular feel targeted by the EU proposal. They rely heavily on ancillary revenue streams like paid carry-on, seat selection, and priority boarding. Ryanair alone earned over 5 billion euros last year from such extras. Free, standardized carry-on rules could disrupt that business model.
Not final yet, but change is coming
The proposal for EU-wide baggage rules is now in the hands of the full European Parliament. Only after a vote will the regulations become binding. Still, airlines are already adapting – often under pressure from both the public and policymakers. It’s likely that more carriers will follow Ryanair’s lead and revise their size limits in line with the EU’s vision.
Security rules still apply
One thing that won’t change are the security rules about what you can pack in your hand luggage. The EU continues to enforce strict safety measures:
- Liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag of no more than 1 liter. Exceptions apply for baby food and medications.
- Duty-free liquids are allowed if sealed in the original safety bag with the receipt. Do not open the seal before reaching your final destination.
- Sharp objects like corkscrews, scissors, and knives are prohibited in cabin luggage.
- Flammable items such as fireworks, spray paint, or certain chemicals are not allowed in any luggage.
- Weapons of any kind are strictly forbidden.
What should you do right now?
For now, it’s essential to check your airline’s baggage policy carefully before you fly. The new 40 x 30 x 15 cm personal item standard is already in place with many carriers, but not yet universally enforced. Ryanair, however, has already adopted slightly more generous dimensions.
And while the EU plans to allow a 7 kg cabin suitcase for free, that’s still not a done deal. Until then, verify both the size and weight limits for your carry-on and personal item.
Also, keep in mind all standard security restrictions – especially if you’re packing liquids or items that could be considered sharp or hazardous.
The good news? The chaos surrounding carry-on rules is finally starting to clear. With a bit of luck, flying with hand luggage might soon be a lot less stressful.