Last updated: February 2026
Ryanair carry-on size rules in 2026 are among the strictest in Europe. Unlike many legacy airlines, Ryanair operates a tiered baggage system where your fare type determines exactly what you can bring onboard — and enforcement at the gate is consistent.
Understanding Ryanair’s cabin bag policy before you travel is essential. Small differences in bag size or weight can result in significant airport fees.
This complete guide explains Ryanair carry-on size rules, personal item dimensions, 10kg cabin bag upgrades, enforcement practices, and how to avoid unnecessary charges.
Ryanair Carry-On Allowance (2026 Overview)
Ryanair allows:
- One small personal item (free)
- One 10kg cabin bag (paid upgrade)
The allowance depends entirely on your fare type and whether you purchase priority boarding.
Free Small Personal Item
All Ryanair passengers may bring:
- 40 x 20 x 25 cm (15.7 x 7.9 x 9.8 inches)
This bag must fit under the seat in front of you.
Common examples:
- Small backpack
- Compact laptop bag
- Small handbag
- Slim duffel
If your bag exceeds these dimensions, you may be required to pay a gate fee.
10kg Cabin Bag (Priority Boarding Required)
Passengers who purchase “Priority & 2 Cabin Bags” may bring:
- 55 x 40 x 20 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 inches)
- Maximum weight: 10kg
This bag is stored in the overhead locker.
Without priority boarding, you are not permitted to bring a full-size cabin bag into the cabin.
Ryanair Fare Types and Baggage Rights
Understanding fare structure prevents confusion.
Basic Fare
- One small personal item only
- No overhead cabin bag
- Checked baggage extra
Regular Fare
- Often includes seat selection
- Small personal item only
- Cabin bag still requires upgrade
Plus Fare
- Includes 20kg checked bag
- Still must verify cabin allowance details
Flexi Plus
- Includes priority boarding
- Includes 10kg cabin bag
- Greater flexibility
Always verify baggage inclusion at time of booking.
How Strict Is Ryanair About Carry-On Size?
Ryanair is known for strict enforcement.
Gate staff routinely:
- Require bags to be placed in metal sizers
- Charge fees immediately if oversized
- Apply higher fees at the gate than online
Even slight bulging can result in fees.
Enforcement is consistent at:
- Major UK airports
- Spanish holiday destinations
- Italian routes
- Irish departure points
If flying Ryanair, assume enforcement will occur.
Ryanair Carry-On Fees (2026)
Fees vary by route and booking timing.
Typical pricing:
- 10kg cabin bag (online): €6–€25
- Airport purchase: Higher
- Gate fee for oversized bag: Often €46–€60+
Fees increase significantly if not pre-booked.
Pre-purchase baggage online whenever possible.
Ryanair Personal Item Strategy
Since the free allowance is limited to 40 x 20 x 25 cm, smart packing is essential.
What Fits in 40 x 20 x 25 cm?
Typically:
- 2–3 outfits
- Toiletries (100ml liquid limits apply)
- Laptop or tablet
- Travel documents
- Chargers
Compression packing cubes help maximize capacity.
Soft-sided bags are recommended over rigid luggage.
Best Type of Bag for Ryanair
Soft-Sided Backpack (Recommended)
Advantages:
- Slight compression flexibility
- Lightweight
- Easier to fit in sizer
- More forgiving than hard-shell luggage
Hard-Shell Mini Suitcase
Risks:
- No compression
- Must fit exactly
- More likely to fail sizer if overpacked
For frequent Ryanair travelers, a purpose-built 40 x 20 x 25 cm backpack is often the safest option.
Weight Enforcement on Ryanair
The free small bag is rarely weighed unless visibly heavy.
The 10kg cabin bag, however, can be weighed.
European airports are more likely to enforce weight limits compared to U.S. carriers.
Stay below 9kg to allow margin.
Ryanair vs EasyJet vs Wizz Air
| Airline | Free Bag | Paid Cabin Bag | Weight Enforcement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 x 20 x 25 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm | Strict |
| EasyJet | 45 x 36 x 20 cm | 56 x 45 x 25 cm | Moderate |
| Wizz Air | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 23 cm | Strict |
Ryanair’s free allowance is one of the smallest in Europe.
Connecting Flights and Ryanair
Ryanair does not offer protected transfers in the traditional sense.
If flying separate bookings:
- Each flight follows Ryanair’s baggage rules independently.
- Overweight or oversized penalties apply at each segment.
Plan accordingly.
What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Large?
If your bag fails the sizer:
- You must pay a gate fee.
- Your bag is tagged and checked.
- You collect it at baggage claim.
Gate fees are substantially higher than online add-ons.
Avoid arriving at the gate unprepared.
Practical Packing Tips for Ryanair
- Use compression packing cubes.
- Wear bulky clothing onboard.
- Use lightweight footwear.
- Minimize toiletry volume.
- Avoid expandable luggage.
For weekend trips, the free personal item is often sufficient.
For 4–7 day trips, the 10kg cabin bag upgrade may be practical.
Ryanair Liquids Rule Reminder
Ryanair follows EU security liquid rules:
- Containers must be 100ml or less.
- All liquids must fit in a 1-litre clear plastic bag.
- One bag per passenger.
Security rules are separate from airline baggage policies.
Is It Worth Paying for the 10kg Cabin Bag?
It depends on:
- Trip duration
- Destination climate
- Boarding priority value
- Price difference vs checked bag
Sometimes a 10kg checked bag costs less than cabin priority.
Always compare before booking.
Common Ryanair Carry-On Mistakes
- Assuming the bag will not be measured.
- Overpacking the 40 x 20 x 25 cm allowance.
- Forgetting that wheels count in dimensions.
- Ignoring fare type limitations.
- Purchasing baggage at the airport instead of online.
FAQ
What size carry-on is allowed on Ryanair for free?
Ryanair allows one small personal item measuring 40 x 20 x 25 cm for free.
Can I bring a 10kg cabin bag without priority?
No. The 10kg cabin bag requires purchasing Priority & 2 Cabin Bags.
Does Ryanair weigh cabin bags?
The 10kg bag may be weighed. The small personal item is less frequently weighed unless visibly heavy.
What happens if my bag is too big?
You will be charged a gate fee and the bag will be checked.
Do wheels count in Ryanair carry-on measurements?
Yes. Wheels and handles are included in total dimensions.
Summary
Ryanair carry-on size rules in 2026 are strict, clearly defined, and consistently enforced.
To avoid fees:
- Stay within 40 x 20 x 25 cm for free travel.
- Purchase the 10kg cabin bag online if needed.
- Use lightweight, compressible luggage.
- Measure including wheels and handles.
- Review fare type before departure.
Preparation prevents costly gate surprises.
→ Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions by Airline
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