Ryanair vs EasyJet Baggage Allowance: 2025 Size & Cost Comparison

Navigating the world of budget air travel can feel like a minefield, especially when it comes to baggage. The rules seem to change constantly, and the two biggest players in the UK, Ryanair and EasyJet, have their own distinct policies. Getting it wrong can lead to stressful situations at the gate and hefty unexpected fees. This guide provides a clear, direct Ryanair vs EasyJet baggage allowance comparison for 2025, so you can pack smart and fly without worry.

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As a British-based company with over 60 years of experience in the luggage industry, we at Skyflite have seen these policies evolve firsthand. We design our luggage to meet the needs of modern travellers, which means paying close attention to the exact dimensions and weight limits set by major airlines. Let's break down what you need to know.

At a Glance: Ryanair vs EasyJet Free Cabin Bag Rules

At the most basic level, both airlines allow you to bring one small personal bag on board for free. However, the sizes differ slightly.

  • Ryanair: One small personal bag (40 x 20 x 25cm) that must fit under the seat in front of you.
  • EasyJet: One small cabin bag (45 x 36 x 20cm, including handles and wheels) that must fit under the seat in front of you, with a maximum weight of 15kg.

The takeaway: EasyJet offers a slightly more generous free allowance in terms of dimensions.

Ryanair Baggage Allowance: A Detailed Breakdown

Ryanair's policy is built around a single, small free bag, with multiple paid upgrades available.

Ryanair's Free Small Cabin Bag

Every passenger can bring one small personal bag on board free of charge.

  • Dimensions: 40 x 20 x 25cm
  • Placement: Must fit in the sizer at the gate and be stored under the seat in front of you.
  • Examples: A small backpack, handbag, or laptop bag.

Upgrading Your Cabin Bag: Priority & 2 Cabin Bags

If your free bag isn't enough, you can purchase "Priority & 2 Cabin Bags." This is the only way to bring a larger, 10kg wheelie bag into the cabin on a Ryanair flight.

  • What you get: You can board first (in the priority queue) and bring both your small personal bag (40 x 20 x 25cm) and a larger cabin bag.
  • Larger Cabin Bag Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20cm
  • Weight Limit: 10kg
  • Cost: Varies depending on the route and time of booking, but typically ranges from £6 to £35.

Ryanair Checked Baggage: Costs and Sizes

For longer trips, you'll need to check a bag into the hold.

  • 10kg Check-in Bag: This is the same size as the larger cabin bag (55 x 40 x 20cm). You book this option and drop the bag at the check-in desk. Costs are generally lower than the 20kg option.
  • 20kg Check-in Bag: This is the standard checked luggage option. While there isn't a strict Ryanair 20kg bag size in terms of height x width x depth, the bag must not exceed total linear dimensions of 80 x 120 x 120cm. You can check in up to three 20kg bags per passenger.

EasyJet Baggage Allowance: A Detailed Breakdown

EasyJet's structure is similar but with key differences in sizing and upgrade paths. Understanding the correct EasyJet bag size is crucial.

EasyJet's Free Small Cabin Bag

All passengers are entitled to one free small cabin bag.

  • Dimensions: 45 x 36 x 20cm (including any handles or wheels)
  • Weight Limit: 15kg
  • Placement: Must fit under the seat in front of you.

Upgrading to an EasyJet Large Cabin Bag

To bring a bigger bag on board, you need to book an "Up Front" or "Extra Legroom" seat, or simply add a large cabin bag to your booking.

* Book an Up Front or Extra Legroom seat. * Add a "Large Cabin Bag" to your booking for a fee. * EasyJet Plus members can bring a large cabin bag as part of their membership benefits (subject to space).

EasyJet Checked Baggage: Costs and Sizes

EasyJet offers more flexibility in checked luggage weights.

  • 15kg Checked Bag: A popular option for shorter trips, available to book online only.
  • 23kg Standard Checked Bag: The default hold luggage option.
  • Extra Weight: You can purchase additional weight in 3kg increments, up to a maximum of 32kg per bag.
  • Total Dimensions: The total size (length + width + height) must not exceed 275cm.

Key Differences Summarised: Which Airline is Better for Baggage?

So, when comparing Ryanair vs EasyJet baggage allowance, who comes out on top? It depends on your needs.

  • Free Allowance: EasyJet is slightly more generous, offering a larger bag (45 x 36 x 20cm vs. Ryanair's 40 x 20 x 25cm).
  • Paid Cabin Bag: Ryanair's "Priority" option is a straightforward way to get a 10kg bag on board. EasyJet's method is tied to seat selection or a separate fee, but the bag you can bring is larger and has a higher weight limit (15kg).
  • Checked Bags: EasyJet offers more flexible weight options (15kg, 23kg, and extra weight), whereas Ryanair is more rigid with its 10kg and 20kg tiers.

Choosing the Right Bag for Your Flight

Whichever airline you choose, the single most important factor is having a bag that meets the specific size requirements. A flimsy bag that bulges when packed can easily fail the sizer check, leading to last-minute fees.

This is where investing in quality, smartly designed luggage pays off. As a recognised British brand in the travel goods industry, Skyflite focuses on creating durable and size-compliant luggage. Our ranges are frequently updated to align with the latest airline rules. A well-made bag not only protects your belongings but also gives you peace of mind, backed by our 5-year manufacturer’s warranty covering critical defects.

While this guide covers the UK's two main budget carriers, allowances can vary significantly across other airlines. To ensure you're always prepared, you can find a complete breakdown in our ultimate 2025 UK cabin bag size guide.

Final Checklist: Flying Ryanair or EasyJet in 2025

  • Measure Twice, Fly Once: Always physically measure your packed bag before you leave for the airport.
  • Book Baggage Online: Adding baggage at the airport is always significantly more expensive.
  • Weigh Your Bags: Don't guess. Use a home scale to check both cabin and checked luggage weights.
  • Check the App: Always double-check your specific baggage allowance on the airline's app before you fly, as policies can be updated.
  • Pack Smart: Choose a reliable, well-constructed bag that holds its shape and fits within the required dimensions.

By understanding the rules and choosing the right luggage, you can confidently navigate the complexities of budget airline travel and start your trip on the right foot.