Renowned for its economical airfares, Ryanair is well-known not just for its budget-friendly prices but also for its stringent baggage regulations. Despite clear guidelines provided during booking and on the airline’s website, passengers often find themselves unprepared for these rules.
A recent adjustment in Ryanair’s baggage policy has seen an expansion in the size allowance for the complimentary underseat bag accompanying even the most basic ticket fares. Formerly restricted to 40 x 25 x 20 cm, passengers can now bring a bag measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm since last year. This small piece could be a laptop bag, handbag, rucksack, or any item fitting under the front seat.
For an extra charge, varying based on the route and availability, travelers can carry a second cabin bag weighing up to 10KG. This bag can be up to 55 x 40 x 20cm and passengers must stow it in the overhead compartment without crew assistance. Additionally, passengers can opt for checked luggage in 10kg, 20kg, or 23kg options.
Despite prior alerts, a family faced unexpected charges at the airport for not adhering to the bag dimensions, reportedly incurring a £400 penalty. A post on Which? Travel’s Facebook page recounted their experience of being charged on their return flight to the UK due to non-compliant baggage.
In response to the incident, Ryanair emphasized the importance of avoiding oversize baggage fees by adhering to stipulated dimensions. The company clarified that their sizers are larger than the permitted dimensions; bags fitting within the sizer proceed without charges, while those exceeding dimensions are penalized.
In a guidance report, Which?’s travel team outlined strategies to prevent extra charges when flying with Ryanair. Ensuring the bag fits the holder is crucial as gate staff routinely check bag sizes, potentially leading to additional fees or compulsory hold check-in if the bag doesn’t fit the sizer.
It is advised not to rely on manufacturer-provided measurements; measure the bag when packed, considering it may expand when full, and include wheels and handles in measurements.
Ryanair’s website cautions passengers against bringing oversize bags (exceeding 55x40x20cm) to the boarding gate to avoid a fee ranging from £/€ 70.00 to £/€ 75.00 for stowing in the aircraft hold. It also stresses the importance of pre-booking the second cabin bag to ensure acceptance at the gate, as non-priority customers risk a fee of €/£ 46.00 to €/£ 60.00 for hold placement.
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