Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend city break or a longer trip, especially if you love European city travel, this article explains the changes, why they matter, and what to expect - helping you travel smarter in 2025 and beyond.
No more extra fees for hand luggage? Here’s what’s happening
In June 2025, the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee voted in favour of a new rule that would stop airlines from charging extra for basic hand luggage.
The new rule (still waiting final approval) would guarantee:
• A small cabin bag (maximum dimensions of 100cm and a weight of 7kg)
• One personal item (like a handbag, laptop case or small backpack)
This will be included in your ticket price departing from EU airports, so your European holidays, beach breaks and city hops get easier to plan.
Why is the EU banning extra fees for hand luggage?
Travellers often struggle to navigate different baggage restrictions, especially since each airline sets its own policies. This adds unnecessary complexity to planning trips and comparing flight prices.
The EU’s latest proposal follows a court ruling that states hand luggage should be part of the ticket, not an optional extra. More recently, action taken by Spanish authorities against several airlines over luggage charges brought more attention to the issue.
Now, as part of a broader low cost airline luggage crackdown, the EU is looking to create simpler, more consistent rules - so passengers can book with a bit more confidence and fewer surprises.
The hand luggage fee ban - How will this benefit travellers flying within Europe?
For frequent flyers and fans of carry on luggage-only trips, the benefits are clear:
• No more surprise baggage fees at checkout
• One consistent hand luggage policy across EU airlines
• Easier price comparisons when booking flights
• Less stress at boarding
Will this make flights more expensive?
Some low-cost airlines may increase their base ticket prices to compensate for the loss of extra fees from hand luggage. However, the EU believes the overall benefit to travellers - in terms of simplifying pricing, fairer comparison and more protection - outweighs the potential for slightly higher fares.
The EU’s proposal also includes provisions beyond hand luggage. Children under 12 would be allowed to sit next to a parent or guardian without extra fees, and passengers with reduced mobility would get better assistance and more flexible seating options at no extra cost.
Ryanair to allow larger free cabin bags
Right now, Ryanair only lets you bring a small “personal bag” for free - but that’s also about to change. In the coming weeks, the airline will boost cabin allowance to 40 x 30 x 20cm, giving travellers more packing space at no extra cost. This move lines up with new EU rules set to ban hand luggage fees, making flying a bit more straightforward and possibly a bit cheaper too.
Hand luggage fees: What you can do now
Until the new rules kick in:
• Check for extra charges when booking
• Pack light to avoid any extra charges
• Stay updated as changes may start in 2025
A little planning now can save you money (and stress) later! Don’t just book it. Thomas Cook it.
About the author
Jeslin is happiest when exploring new places and immersing herself in different cultures. When she’s not travelling, she’s often getting lost in a good book (sometimes literally), enjoying wild adventures from the comfort of her sofa.