What is EU's hand luggage ban and how will it affect Brits?

Powys County Times

6 hours ago

If you're travelling abroad this year, particularly via the EU, you might wonder what the proposed hand luggage fee ban is and how it could affect you and your travel plans.
This week, reports have suggested that the European Union is looking to ban airlines from charging passengers for hand luggage under 7kg and to standardise cabin bag dimensions across the board.
Here's what we know about the possible change and how it could affect those travelling to Europe from the UK.
What does EU hand luggage fee ban mean for Brits?
Travel agency Trip.com has shared insights from James Spalding, UK Head of Aviation, on how this change could affect customers.
Hand luggage policies are different depending on the airline you fly with meaning those who don't travel often need to brush up on the rules before going away.
James Spalding said: 'If the EU introduces a standard size and removes fees for small cabin bags, it could bring greater consistency across the board. That means fewer unexpected charges and a simpler way to compare fares between airlines.
'That said, it's unlikely airlines will absorb the cost entirely. It may be built into the base fare instead. While that could mean slightly higher upfront prices, many travellers will welcome the added transparency - knowing exactly what's included in the ticket from the outset.'
The BBC added: 'Under the new rule, travellers would be allowed to bring one cabin bag measuring up to 100cm on board their flight, as well as an under-the-seat personal item with a maximum size of 40x30x15cm at no additional cost.
'The proposed law still requires approval from 55% of EU member states, but if adopted following negotiations starting in July 2025, the new rules would extend to all flights within the EU, as well as routes to and from the EU.'
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How will the EU hand luggage fee ban affect prices?
James explained: 'Over recent years, many European carriers have introduced fares without hand luggage to offer more flexibility and competitive entry-level pricing.
'If that option is removed, airlines may explore other ways to offer choice — for example, by introducing or expanding 'priority' options for early boarding or guaranteed cabin space.
'Cabin storage is always limited, especially on full flights. We already see some airlines asking passengers to check bags at the gate when overhead lockers are full.
'If more passengers bring similar-sized bags onboard under a single rule, it could lead to more operational changes and a bigger focus on how baggage is managed at boarding.'
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How can you get a good deal if prices go up?
If prices rise, James says 'comparison is key.'
Using platforms like Trip.com will mean travellers can compare prices and 'see what's included in their fare - from cabin bags and checked luggage to seat selection.'
Use search filters so you can select your preferences when booking your holiday so you can 'avoid unexpected costs at checkout' and find the flights and holiday deals that suit you.
Will UK airlines ban hand luggage fees?
Since the UK operates outside the EU now, you might be wondering how this hand luggage fee change could affect you and your holiday.
James said: 'That's an interesting one. If the UK doesn't adopt the same rule, there could be a bit of a mismatch - especially on flights between the UK and the EU - with different policies for the outbound and return legs. That might cause some confusion for passengers and create complexity for airlines.
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'To simplify things, some carriers may choose to align their policies across both EU and UK routes, even if it's not a formal requirement. We'll have to wait and see how the industry responds.'
What are the hand luggage sizes for Ryanair, Jet2, easyJet and more?
Each airline has different allowances for hand luggage, here's what we know.
Ryanair's website says: "All our fares include one small personal bag which can be brought on board, such as a handbag or laptop bag (40x20x25cm), which must fit under the seat in front of you."
easyJet says passengers can bring one small cabin bag:
Maximum size 45 x 36 x 20cm (including any handles and wheels)
Includes items like a small trolley case, handbag, rucksack and laptop bag, but please check dimensions
Needs to fit under the seat in front of you
Maximum weight 15kg. You need to be able to lift and carry the bag yourself
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Jet2 says: "You can bring one piece of hand luggage onboard free of charge, as long as it weighs no more than 10kg and is no larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, including any wheels and handles."
Here's what you're allowed to bring on board when flying with British Airways:
1 cabin bag, max. 23kg (51lbs), up to 56×45×25cm (22 x 18 x 10in)
1 handbag or laptop bag, max. 23kg (51lbs), up to 40×30×15cm (16 x 12 x 6in)
Wizz Air allows two types of bags to be brought onboard, according to its website rules:
It allows everyone one small carry-on bag, which should be placed under the seat, maximum size: 40 x 30 x 20 cm, 10kg.
Exceeding these dimensions will result in additional fees being charged.