EU rule mandates free cabin bag on budget airlines, impact on Ryanair and easyJet

After almost a decade of negotiations, the European Council and Parliament have agreed on a rule that obliges airlines to include one free personal item and one small wheeled cabin bag in the advertised fare. The expected dimensions are about 7 kg and 100 cm combined, matching the parliamentary position. The rule applies to EU carriers and intra‑EU flights; UK airlines such as easyJet, British Airways and Jet2 must follow it on routes returning from the EU into the UK, meaning British travellers may still pay a fee on the outbound leg.

Aviation expert James Doyle explained that low‑cost carriers are likely to raise base ticket prices to recoup lost baggage‑fee revenue, while offering a cheaper fare option for passengers who decline the wheeled bag. The regulation aims to increase price transparency by displaying fares that include hand‑luggage allowances before the booking process begins.

In parallel, retailers are promoting bags designed to meet the new size limits, such as the £21 Cabin Max Vela tote that fits the 40 × 20 × 25 cm dimensions required by airlines like Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air. These products are marketed as a way for travellers to avoid additional fees while complying with the upcoming EU standards.