Ryanair vs EasyJet Baggage Guide 2026
Complete comparison • Save $50-100 per trip • Updated baggage rules
⚡ Quick Comparison:
40×30×20cm free • Priority €9-45
45×36×20cm free • Large bag from £7
Budget airlines dominate European travel, but baggage fees can easily add €50-100 to your trip. This updated 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about Ryanair and EasyJet baggage policies—so you can pack smart and keep costs down.
✈️ Ryanair Baggage Policy 2026
📦 Free Small Bag (NEW SIZE!)
40cm × 30cm × 20cm (FREE)
NEW 2026: Increased from 40×25×20cm! 20% larger. Must fit under seat.
🎫 Priority & 2 Cabin Bags
- Small bag: 40×30×20cm (under seat)
- Large bag: 55×40×20cm, max 10kg (overhead)
- Cost: €9.49-44.99 (book online, cheaper early)
- Bonus: Priority boarding + guaranteed overhead space
🧳 Checked Baggage
€18.99-59.99
€18.99-59.99
Higher fee
⚠️ Important: Max 32kg per bag. Excess weight = €11/kg at airport!
✈️ EasyJet Baggage Policy 2026
📦 Free Small Cabin Bag
45cm × 36cm × 20cm (FREE)
Max 15kg (if you can lift it). Must fit under seat. Slightly more generous than Ryanair!
🎒 Large Cabin Bag Option
- Dimensions: 56×45×25cm (includes handles/wheels)
- Weight: No official limit (be reasonable)
- Cost: From £7 (book online for best price)
- Bonus: Speedy Boarding included!
💚 EasyJet Plus & FLEXI Benefits:
Members get large cabin bag FREE + small bag. Worth it for frequent travelers!
🧳 Checked Baggage
From £7.99
From £15
From £25
⚖️ Direct Comparison
| Feature | Ryanair | EasyJet |
|---|---|---|
| Free Bag Size | 40×30×20cm | 45×36×20cm ✓ |
| Large Cabin Bag | €9-45 + Priority | From £7 + Speedy ✓ |
| Checked Bag (20kg) | €18.99-59.99 | From £15 |
| Strictness | Very strict! ⚠️ | Moderate |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
1. Book Baggage Online
Airport fees are 2-3x higher! Always pre-book at least 2 hours before flight. Save €20-40 per bag.
2. Measure & Weigh at Home
Buy a portable luggage scale (£10). Ryanair is STRICT—even 1cm over = forced check-in + €50 fee!
3. Pack Smart
Wear heavy items (jacket, boots). Use packing cubes. Compression bags. Roll clothes tight. Maximize every cm!
4. One Bag Travel
I traveled 2 months Europe with just cabin bag. Laundry every 3-4 days. Saved €200+ in baggage fees across 8 flights!
🎒 My Recommended Cabin Backpack
I used the Inateck 40L Expandable Travel Backpack for 2 months across Europe. Opens like suitcase, fits both airlines (55×35×20cm), way better than wheeled luggage on cobblestones!
🚄 Alternative: European Trains
Sometimes trains beat budget airlines:
✅ Train Advantages:
- No baggage limits: Bring multiple bags, no weight restrictions
- City centre to city centre: No airport transfers (save €20-40)
- Scenic routes: Swiss Alps, Tuscan hills, Rhine Valley
- More space: Walk around, proper legroom, power outlets
- Eurail Pass: Unlimited travel from €200/month
When to choose trains: Paris-Brussels (1h20), Amsterdam-Berlin (6h), Barcelona-Madrid (3h). Longer than flying but often cheaper when you include airport transfers + baggage fees.
Ready for Budget European Travel?
Get your essentials:
Disclaimer: Baggage policies change. Always check official Ryanair/EasyJet websites before booking. Updated January 2026.
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