News for Ryanair travelers: Europe's largest low-cost airline has announced an increase in the size allowance for free carry-on baggage. This change, though small, marks an important step toward greater passenger convenience and comes at a time of regulatory turmoil across the European Union.
Ryanair hand luggage: the new dimensions
Currently, free hand luggage on Ryanair can measure up to 40 x 25 x 20 cm, with a maximum capacity of 20 liters. The new exemption, which will be activated in the next few weeks, will bring these measures to 40 x 30 x 20 cm, increasing the capacity to 24 liters.
This is an increase of 20% in volume, which allows you to carry slightly larger backpacks or laptop bags to fit under the front seat, without having to purchase extra amenities.
However, the rules do not change for those who wish to bring a pet into the cabin larger trolley: this option remains linked to the purchase of priority boarding or a supplement.
@todacanarias Ryanair will increase free hand luggage ✈️ 👉🏻 Find the full article on our website in the dedicated section! #todacanarias #isolecanary #notiziecanarias
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Why did Ryanair decide to change now?
Ryanair's decision is no coincidence. In recent days, the European Parliament Transport Committee approved a proposal that aims to make free transport of two hand luggages for all passengers flying in the EU.
According to the proposal, every traveler should be able to bring free of charge:
- a personal item (maximum 40 x 30 x 15 cm)
- a carry-on bag with maximum combined dimensions of 100 cm (height + width + depth) and a maximum weight of 7 kg
The legislation still needs final approval and could be subject to changes during negotiations between Parliament and member states. However, many airlines, including Ryanair, are already adapting in advance.
How are other low-cost airlines behaving?
Ryanair isn't the only airline to take early action. Other low-cost carriers have already introduced or confirmed similar measures:
- EasyJet: 45 x 36 x 20 cm (the most generous)
- Vueling: 40 x 30 x 20 cm (like Ryanair)
- Wizz Air: 40 x 30 x 20 cm, with a 10 kg limit
According to the association Airlines for Europe (A4E), all member carriers will introduce the new guaranteed sizes by the end of summer 2025.
What changes for passengers?
For travelers, the increased free carry-on size represents a small practical advantage: greater flexibility, less need to pay extra, and the ability to travel lighter and less stressful.
However, there are also those who raise doubts. Ryanair CEO, Eddie Wilson, said that regulations of this kind could lead to a general increase in tariffs“Everyone would pay more, even those carrying a small bag,” he said.
What will change for flights from Italy to the Canary Islands?
This change to Ryanair's hand luggage rules could also have positive effects for those travelling from Italy to the Canary Islands. With the increased permitted size, travelers will be able to organize themselves better without having to purchase additional services. This is an added convenience for those choosing the Canary Islands for summer or winter holidays, often with low-cost airlines.
If you are planning a flight to Tenerife, Gran Canaria or another island in the archipelago, take a look at our page dedicated to flights to the Canary Islands to compare offers, routes, and helpful tips for saving.
In conclusion
The change announced by Ryanair is positive for regular passengers of low-cost airlines. Although the European regulation is not yet in force, the trend is clear: we are moving towards greater harmonization and transparency in baggage costs.
For now, Ryanair passengers will be able to enjoy a little more space (for free). But the advice remains the same: Always check the updated dimensions on the official website before your flight, to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport.
