Ryanair Hand Luggage
Ryanair is famous for keeping things simple, fly cheap, pack smart, no surprises. Every bag in this range is sized to meet Ryanair cabin luggage requirements, so you can browse, pick what you like, and get straight to the exciting bit: planning where you're actually going. Whether you need a compact carry-on for a weekend city break or a versatile boarding bag for a business trip, the right carry on for Ryanair is right here.
Great Bags. Right Size. Ready for Ryanair.
Every bag in this range is sized to comply with Ryanair cabin baggage requirements, so whatever you pick, you're already set. Here's a quick breakdown of everything you need to know about Ryanair hand luggage rules, so you can pack with total confidence.
Ryanair Cabin Luggage Size: What Are the Rules?
Ryanair operates two distinct cabin bag allowances, and which one applies to you depends on the fare you've booked:
- Free personal bag for all fares: Every Ryanair ticket includes one small personal bag at no extra charge. The Ryanair cabin luggage size for this free allowance is a maximum of 40x30x20cm. This bag must fit entirely under the seat in front of you during the flight. All bags in this range are designed with these dimensions in mind.
- Large cabin bag (Priority fares): Passengers who purchase Priority & 2 Cabin Bags can also bring a larger bag measuring up to 55x40x20cm, weighing no more than 10kg, stored in the overhead locker. This option must be purchased in advance, it is not included with standard fares.
All dimensions include wheels, handles, and any external pockets. Always double-check the current Ryanair cabin baggage rules on the official Ryanair website before you travel.
What Kind of Bag Works Best as Ryanair Hand Luggage?
The bags in this range, including backpacks, boarding bags, duffle bags, and versatile 3-way carry-ons, are all designed to be compact, well-organised, and easy to slide under the seat. For cabin luggage on Ryanair, a bag that's structured enough to hold its shape but flexible enough to squeeze into a tight underseat space is the sweet spot. Look for multiple compartments to keep your essentials organised and a secure laptop sleeve if you're travelling for work.
Tips for Flying with Cabin Luggage on Ryanair
- Measure your bag when fully packed: The 40x30x20cm limit for your free cabin bag for Ryanair is measured externally and includes everything. A bag that fits the gauge empty may not once you've packed it.
- Keep your essentials accessible: Since your free bag goes under the seat in front of you, you'll have easy access throughout the flight, great for headphones, snacks, and your travel documents.
- Check the latest policy before every trip: Ryanair cabin luggage sizes and fare inclusions are subject to change.
Explore More Cabin Luggage
- All cabin luggage – explore the full carry-on range
- Lightweight cabin luggage – keep the weight down within Ryanair's limits
- Underseater luggage & bags – compact options built for underseat travel
- easyJet hand luggage – flying easyJet instead?
- Eurowings cabin luggage – headed there with Eurowings?
FAQ
Do I need to pay extra to bring a cabin bag on Ryanair?
No, one small personal bag measuring up to 40x30x20cm is included free with every Ryanair ticket, regardless of the fare type. This underseat bag doesn't cost anything extra and doesn't require Priority boarding to bring on board. However, if you want to bring a larger carry on for Ryanair that goes in the overhead locker (up to 55x40x20cm), you'll need to purchase Priority & 2 Cabin Bags as an add-on. This can be added during or after booking via the Ryanair app or website, and is consistently cheaper when booked in advance rather than at the airport. All the bags in this range are sized for the free personal item allowance.
Can I bring a backpack as my Ryanair hand luggage?
Yes, a backpack is a great choice for Ryanair hand luggage, as long as it fits within the free personal bag dimensions of 40x30x20cm and can be stowed under the seat in front of you. Backpacks work particularly well for Ryanair travel because their flexible structure makes them easier to compress into underseat spaces compared to rigid bags. Look for a backpack with a dedicated laptop compartment if you're travelling for work, and make sure external pockets and any protruding straps are factored into the overall dimensions. When packed, your bag should comfortably meet the size requirements, not just when it's empty. Always verify the current Ryanair cabin baggage rules before travelling.
How strict is Ryanair about hand luggage dimensions?
Ryanair is well known for enforcing its baggage rules consistently, particularly on busy routes and during peak travel seasons. Airport staff regularly check that bags fit within the baggage sizers at the gate, and bags that don't comply can be refused boarding or placed in the hold for a fee. Soft-sided bags and backpacks have a natural advantage here, as they can compress slightly more than rigid options. Choosing a bag specifically designed with Ryanair cabin luggage dimensions in mind, like the options in this range, takes all the guesswork out of it.
Can I bring a laptop in my Ryanair hand luggage?
Yes, a laptop is perfectly fine to bring in your hand luggage for Ryanair, and it remains one of the most practical reasons to make the most of your free underseat allowance. Most laptops up to 15.6" will fit comfortably within a bag sized to the 40x30x20cm personal item limit, provided the bag is designed with a dedicated padded laptop sleeve. This keeps your device protected and easily accessible when going through airport security, where you'll typically need to remove it from your bag for scanning. If you're a regular business traveller, a bag with good internal organisation, separate compartments for your laptop, cables, documents, and personal items, makes the whole airport process much smoother.