Ryanair Baggage Policy

Ryanair Baggage Policy: Everything You Need to Know

Ryanair has built its reputation on low fares and no frills service. The airline's baggage policy is more restrictive than many of the legacy carriers and may surprise travelers. Knowing the Ryanair baggage policy 2025 is important if you do not want to incur surprise charges at the airport.

This blog breaks down everything you need to know about the Ryanair baggage policy from free allowances to paid options and from cabin rules to checked baggage restrictions. You can get in touch with Ryanair customer service at +3-531-697-1368 or AirCancellation at +1-888-826-0067 for any queries or information.

What Is the Basic Ryanair Cabin Baggage Allowance?

Ryanair is known for its ultra-low fares but part of the deal is a strict baggage policy. The airline allows every passenger to bring one small personal bag on board free of charge. This item should fit below the seat in front of you and measure no more than 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Examples include a handbag, laptop case or small backpack.

You won’t pay extra fees if you travel with only this small bag. But you will have to upgrade your ticket or pay for additional baggage options for extra space.

How Does Ryanair’s Priority & 2 Cabin Bags Option Work?

Ryanair offers the Priority & 2 Cabin Bags add-on for passengers who want to carry more. This option lets you bring a free small personal item plus a larger cabin bag up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm with a max weight of 10 kg.

The benefit of Priority is not just the extra bag. It also allows you to board first, so there is space in the overhead lockers for your luggage. Without Priority even if you have paid for a 10 kg cabin bag, it will usually be tagged and placed in the hold free of charge which means you will have to wait at baggage claim.

Can you check in a small 10 kg bag instead?

Ryanair has a 10 kg check-in bag facility. You can check in a small bag at the counter and pick it up at your location. The bag cannot be larger than 55 x 40 x 20 cm and 10 kg.

This is a popular choice among travelers who do not want to deal with a larger bag going through security or who are traveling with liquids that would not be allowed in cabins. Fees for this bag are typically less if reserved at the time of ticket booking as opposed to later on.

What is the Ryanair Baggage Policy for the 20 kg Checked Bag?

Ryanair allows you to purchase up to three 20 kg checked bags per passenger for longer trips or family travel. These must measure no more than 81 x 119 x 119 cm.

These are standard checked suitcases placed in the hold unlike the 10 kg option. Passengers who book these bags can check in at the desk and proceed to security without worrying about cabin space.

The Ryanair baggage fees depend on the route and season along with whether you purchase at booking time or later. Charges are always less when reserved early rather than at the airport.

What Happens If Your Bag Exceeds the Size or Weight Limits?

Ryanair enforces baggage limits strictly. You will face additional fees if your bag is larger than the permitted dimensions or heavier than your Ryanair baggage allowance.

Overweight checked bags: charged per extra kilo, up to a maximum allowance.
Oversized cabin bags: not permitted in the cabin and charged as checked luggage at the gate which is usually much more expensive than prebooking.

It is best to measure and weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport to avoid stress.

Can You Add Bags After Booking?

You can add baggage with Ryanair through the Manage Booking page on its website or app. Adding bags after you have booked is usually more costly than adding them when you initially buy your ticket.

The Ryanair baggage fees can be much more expensive if you do it when you are already at the airport. Budget conscious travelers need to plan ahead as per their bag requirements.

What About Infant and Family Baggage Rules?

Families traveling with infants and young children have some additional Ryanair baggage allowances.

Infants under 2 years old on a parent’s lap: Allowed a baby bag up to 5 kg in addition to the adult’s personal bag.
Strollers, car seats and travel cots: Parents can check two baby items free of charge per child. Additional items may incur fees.
Child tickets over 2 years: Follow the standard Ryanair baggage rules for adults.

These allowances make family travel slightly more manageable without unexpected additional charges.

What Are the Ryanair Baggage Fees for Sports Equipment and Special Items?

Ryanair allows sports equipment and musical instruments but charges separate fees depending on size and weight like:

Small instruments like violins may be carried in the cabin if they fit the 55 x 40 x 20 cm allowance.
Larger instruments or sports gear (golf clubs, skis, surfboards) must be checked in as special baggage with prices varying by item.
Pre-booking regular baggage online is far cheaper than paying at the airport.

How Can You Avoid Extra Fees on Ryanair?

Many passengers get caught out by last-minute baggage charges. To keep costs low:

Travel light with only the free small personal item.
Book Priority & 2 Cabin Bags early if you need a larger carry on.
Weigh and measure your bags before leaving for the airport.
Add baggage online early rather than waiting until boarding.
Consider sharing a checked bag if traveling as a group.

Careful planning makes a huge difference in avoiding excess charges.

Conclusion: Ryanair Baggage Policy

Ryanair’s affordable model unlike many traditional airlines depends on passengers sticking to the strict Ryanair baggage rules. The airline keeps fares cheap by charging extra for anything beyond the minimum allowance.

This policy may be restrictive but it offers flyers an option to travel light and pay minimally or pay additionally for added convenience and luggage. Flyers can make the right choice based on their needs by knowing the Ryanair baggage policy. You may contact Ryanair at +3-531-697-1368 or AirCancellation at +1-888-826-0067 for more information.