Planning a trip and trying to figure out what you can actually bring on the plane without paying extra? You're not alone. Cabin bag rules are one of the most Googled travel topics — and for good reason. Get it wrong and you're either gate-checking your bag for a fee or doing a frantic repacking session at the airport. Not a great start to any holiday.
We've broken down everything you need to know about Ryanair and EasyJet cabin bag allowances in 2026, so you can pack smart, travel light, and keep your money where it belongs — in your holiday fund.
Ryanair Cabin Bag Rules 2026
Ryanair operates a two-tier cabin bag system depending on your fare type. Here's how it works:
Free Small Bag (All Passengers)
Every Ryanair passenger — regardless of ticket type — is entitled to one small personal bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Think small backpack, handbag, or compact carry-on. No weight limit applies to this bag.
Priority Boarding Cabin Bag
If you've purchased Priority Boarding (or a fare that includes it), you're also allowed a larger cabin bag of up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm and a maximum weight of 10 kg. This goes in the overhead locker. Without Priority, this larger bag gets checked into the hold at the gate — and that costs extra.
Pro tip: If you're travelling as a group, it often works out cheaper for one person to buy Priority and share the overhead locker space. Just make sure you're seated together!
EasyJet Cabin Bag Rules 2026
EasyJet's system is slightly different — and arguably a little more generous for standard passengers.
Small Cabin Bag (All Passengers)
All EasyJet passengers can bring one small cabin bag measuring up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm — which is notably larger than Ryanair's underseat allowance. This goes under the seat in front of you. No weight limit is specified, but it must fit comfortably.
Large Cabin Bag (Hands Free & FLEXI fares)
Passengers on Hands Free or FLEXI fares get an additional large cabin bag of up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm and up to 15 kg. This goes in the overhead locker. Standard fare passengers can add this as a paid extra.
Pro tip: EasyJet's overhead locker bag allowance is one of the most generous among budget airlines. If you're a frequent EasyJet flyer, investing in a quality 56x45x25cm cabin suitcase is absolutely worth it.
Side-by-Side: Ryanair vs EasyJet at a Glance
| Ryanair | EasyJet | |
|---|---|---|
| Free underseat bag | 40 x 20 x 25 cm | 45 x 36 x 20 cm |
| Overhead cabin bag | 55 x 40 x 20 cm (Priority only) | 56 x 45 x 25 cm (paid/fare dependent) |
| Max cabin bag weight | 10 kg | 15 kg |
| Weight limit on small bag | None stated | None stated |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned travellers get caught out. Here are the most common cabin bag blunders — and how to avoid them:
- Overpacking your underseat bag. Airlines are getting stricter about bags that technically fit the dimensions but are stuffed so full they won't slide under the seat. Pack it so it's genuinely flexible.
- Forgetting wheels and handles count. Bag dimensions always include wheels, handles, and any external pockets. A suitcase that measures 40 cm to the top of the shell might be 43 cm with the handle extended. Always check the full dimensions.
- Assuming rules haven't changed. Airlines update their policies more often than you'd think. Always check the airline's website before you fly — especially if it's been a while since your last trip.
- Buying a bag that's "close enough." Gate staff have sizing gauges and they will use them. A bag that's 1 cm over the limit is still over the limit. Buy a bag that's designed to meet the exact dimensions.
What About Other Airlines?
While Ryanair and EasyJet dominate the UK short-haul market, it's worth knowing that other popular airlines have their own rules:
- Jet2: One cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm and 10 kg — included for all passengers.
- British Airways: One cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm and one small personal item.
- Wizz Air: Free underseat bag at 40 x 30 x 20 cm; larger cabin bag requires Priority boarding.
The good news? A well-chosen cabin suitcase that meets the most common dimensions (55 x 40 x 20 cm or 56 x 45 x 25 cm) will work across the vast majority of airlines flying from UK airports.
Choosing the Right Cabin Bag
Now that you know the rules, the next step is finding a bag that actually meets them — without sacrificing style, durability, or packing space. Here's what to look for:
- Exact dimensions: Look for bags specifically designed to meet airline size limits, not just "approximately" the right size.
- Lightweight shell: Every gram of bag weight is a gram you can't use for your belongings. Look for bags under 3 kg.
- 4 spinner wheels: Far easier to manoeuvre through airports than 2-wheel designs, especially on smooth terminal floors.
- Built-in lock: A TSA-approved combination lock keeps your belongings secure without the risk of losing a key.
- Organised interior: A divider and mesh pockets make packing and unpacking at security much faster.
Ready to Travel Smarter?
Whether you're a Ryanair regular or an EasyJet enthusiast, having the right cabin bag makes every trip smoother. No gate fees, no last-minute repacking, no stress — just you and your perfectly packed suitcase, ready for wherever you're headed next.
Browse our full range of airline-approved cabin suitcases — designed to meet the exact size requirements for Ryanair, EasyJet, Jet2, Wizz Air and more.
