Ryanair’s new baggage policy comes into effect today and it’s the second time they’ve changed the rules this year. Here’s everything you need to know.
Ryanair introduced its new baggage policy on 1 November 2018. Image by Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images
What were the previous changes?
Ryanair introduced a baggage policy in January which allowed passengers to take a “personal bag” – such as a handbag on board, while a second, larger bag – such as a wheelie suitcase weighing up to 10kg, could be placed in the hold free of charge. But that policy has now been scrapped and the airline has introduced new rules today.
Ryanair’s luggage rules have changed. Image by martin-dm/Getty Images
What are the new changes?
Ryanair is no longer permitting any luggage to be stored in the hold free of charge. From November 1, passengers have to pay £8/€8 – at the time of booking – to check in a 10kg bag. The 10kg wheelie bag must be checked-in at the airport bag drop desk prior to passing through security. There are some positives though, checking in bags means there are no liquid restrictions when you pass through airport security. It’s also cheaper than checking in a 20kg bag at €25/£25. Only those who pay the £6/€6 ‘Priority Boarding’ fee will be able to take a small suitcase of up to 10kg into the cabin.
Ryanair has introduced a new baggage policy from today. Photo by Alberto Pizzoli/Getty
Should I purchase priority boarding?
Yes, if you want to take a 10kg wheelie case into the cabin with you and disembark with your bag to hand. Priority passengers can take two bags with them (one small carry-on plus one wheelie bag). Priority boarding costs £6/€6 each way. It can only be purchased at time of booking but there is a limit of 95 priority passengers per flight.
What happens if I arrive at the boarding gate with an unchecked bag?
You won’t be able to board the flight with an unchecked bag and you’ll incur higher charges. You’ll have to pay £25/€25 – even if your bag is only 10kg – to have it tagged and stored in the hold.
What is the biggest carry-on I can take?
If you don’t want to pay extra for priority boarding or checked-in bags you can still bring with you a personal bag, free of charge. Indeed Ryanair has increased the maximum size of “personal bags” allowed on board by 40%. Previously, a bag with a maximum dimensions of 35cm x 20xm x 20xm was allowed. But, from today this has increased to 40cm x 25cm x 20cm. Examples include a handbag, laptop bag and small backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you.
Baby bags won’t be affected by the new rules. Image: Stock photo by Marc Romanelli/Getty Images
Are there any exceptions?
There are some exceptions; baby bags of max 5kg in weight can also be carried on, as well as medical equipment that has been cleared by Ryanair’s special assistance team.
Why have the rules changed again?
The airline said the measures introduced in January weren’t effective in speeding up boarding. In fact, it led to a disruption in departures as up to 120 bags were being tagged at boarding gates for each flight. The airline claims, however, that most passengers will be unaffected by the new changes, as 30% already buy priority boarding and it claims a further 30% travel with only a “personal bag”.
A statement on the airline’s website read: “Main benefits of this new policy will be reduced flight delays and cheaper checked bag option. Pack more liquids into a 10kg checked wheelie bag. Walk to the boarding gate hands free.” Ryanair insists it does not expect to make more money from the new rules, as it will lose revenue from passengers with checked bags switching from the £25/€25 fee to the £8/€8 option.
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