Ryanair Baggage Policy Guide: Cabin, Checked & Extra Fees Explained 2025

If you’re flying Ryanair and unsure about cabin bag rules or unexpected charges, this 2025 guide clears things up. With a basic ticket, you only get one small personal bag for free, which must fit under the seat (40×20×25 cm). To bring a larger cabin trolley bag (up to 10kg, 55×40×20 cm), you’ll need to pay for a cabin baggage upgrade. Checked baggage is not included by default — you can purchase 10kg or 20kg options for an extra fee. Ryanair strictly enforces size and weight limits, and you may be charged at the gate if your bag exceeds them. This guide helps you avoid surprise fees and travel stress-free.

Free Cabin Bag Allowance (Personal Item Only)

With Ryanair’s Standard fare, you’re allowed:

• 1 small bag: 40cm × 20cm × 25cm
• Must fit under the seat in front of you
• Common examples: small backpack, laptop bag, or handbag

Important: No cabin trolley bag is allowed for free unless you upgrade or pay for a “Priority & 2 Cabin Bags” ticket.

Priority & 2 Cabin Bags Option

With Priority Boarding, you can bring:

• 1 small personal item (as above)
• 1 cabin suitcase: 55cm × 40cm × 20cm, up to 10kg
• This bag goes in the overhead bin

Cost: Usually €6–€30 depending on route and season. Booking online in advance is much cheaper than paying at the airport.

Checked Baggage Options

You can add up to 3 checked bags when booking or later via “My Booking”.

Oversized or Overweight Fees

• If your carry-on exceeds the size/weight limit, it will be gate-checked and you’ll pay €35–€70
• Checked bags over 20kg will incur an €11 per extra kilo fee
• Use Ryanair’s baggage calculator on their app or website to avoid surprises

FAQs

Can I bring a backpack and a laptop bag?
Only one is allowed with a basic fare. You must combine both into one personal item or upgrade to Priority.

What happens if my bag is 1–2 cm over the limit?
Ryanair is strict. Even a slightly oversized bag may be charged as oversized and gate-checked.

Can I pay for extra baggage after booking?
Yes, you can add Priority or checked baggage up to 2 hours before departure via their app or website.

Is Priority Boarding worth it?
If you want a full-size cabin bag and early boarding, it’s worth the small fee. It also avoids the risk of being forced to check your bag at the gate.

Related Airline Baggage Guides

• Qatar Airways Baggage Policy
• Emirates Baggage Policy Guide
• Master Airline Baggage Rules & Packing Tips

Final Words

Ryanair’s baggage policy is one of the most specific (and strict) in Europe. Understanding the differences between basic and priority fares will help you pack smarter and avoid unnecessary charges. Always book bags online and double-check dimensions before you fly.

For more airline-specific guides, visit our Airline Baggage Hub on Flightofly.