The EU has backed a law that will ban airlines from charging extra for hand luggage. Find out what will change for passengers when the new rule comes into effect, who it affects and how budget carriers are reacting

Are you tired of being charged €30–€60 just to bring your cabin bag on board? The European Union is ready to change that. In a bold move that could reshape air travel across the continent, EU lawmakers have backed new rules banning extra charges for hand luggage – and they could become law as soon as mid-2025.

Ryanair is introducing strict new rules that could have a significant impact on your trip and your wallet. From hand luggage restrictions to fully digital boarding passes, read about three key changes the airline has already started implementing this year in this article.

Read about the allocation of seats on the plane by letter here.

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What are the changes in the rules for carrying hand luggage in the EU?

The new legislation aims to standardise cabin baggage rights for all passengers flying within, into, or out of the EU. Under the proposed rules, all travellers will have the right to bring:

- One cabin bag of up to 100 cm in total dimensions (length + width + height) and up to 7kg.

- One personal item (e.g. handbag or backpack) that fits under the seat, sized max 40 x 30 x 15 cm

At no additional charge, regardless of the airline

That means no more fees for small trolley bags on low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Wizz Air, or EasyJet, which are notorious for strict and inconsistent luggage policies.

The new regulation builds on a 2014 ruling by the European Court of Justice, which stated that hand luggage is an essential part of air transport and should not incur a fee — so long as it meets safety and size standards.

Why Is the EU Doing This?

The decision was driven by years of growing passenger frustration – and legal pressure. In late 2024, Spain’s consumer watchdog fined five budget airlines a combined €179 million for abusive hand luggage charges. That case sent a strong signal across the EU and helped trigger this wider reform.

EU officials say the goal is fairness and transparency. Matteo Ricci, vice-president of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee, called the reform "a fundamental right to avoid unjustified extra costs" and said it would create a "fairer and more efficient system."

Free hand luggage is the first step in a major reform of air transport in Europe

The hand luggage reform is part of a broader package of passenger rights updates introduced by the European Commission. Other key proposals include:

- Families flying together: Airlines will be banned from charging seat selection fees to ensure children under 12 sit next to their parent or guardian for free

- Stronger protections for travellers with reduced mobility, including:

1. Free travel for one accompanying person.

2. Compensation for damaged or lost mobility equipment. 

- Compensation clarity: Common EU-wide forms and tighter reimbursement deadlines (14 days for sellers, 7 days for airlines if needed).

- Multimodal coverage: Missed connections between flights, trains, or buses booked under one itinerary would now be covered. 

Reaction from air carriers and consumer advocates

Airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, argue that banning baggage fees takes away consumer choice.

The industry group Airlines for Europe (A4E) warned that the costs of including hand luggage will simply be rolled into ticket prices, potentially making travel more expensive for those who fly light.

They compared it to forcing all moviegoers to pay for popcorn – even if they don’t want it.

Despite this, many consumer advocates say it's a small price to pay for ending hidden fees and travel anxiety. For budget-conscious travellers and frequent flyers, especially in the post-pandemic era of inflation, the benefits are hard to ignore.

When Will It Happen?

The legislation has passed a crucial vote in the European Parliament's Transport Committee and will now move to a full parliamentary vote. If passed, at least 55% of EU member states (representing 65% of the population) must approve it.

Assuming smooth negotiations, the rules could be implemented by July 2025, giving airlines several months to adjust their policies and booking systems.

Until then, the current rules still apply, so passengers should continue to check baggage allowances before booking – especially with budget carriers.

The EU’s hand luggage reform marks a turning point for air passenger rights in Europe. By removing hidden costs, guaranteeing consistency, and prioritising families and vulnerable travellers, the law sends a strong message: air travel should serve people — not just airline profits.

Whether you’re a weekend city-hopper, digital nomad, or family heading on holiday, this change could make flying simpler, cheaper, and less stressful across the entire EU.

Planning a trip or moving abroad? A travel insurance policy is an important component of a successful trip, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses during your trip.

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Reminder! Planning a trip to Europe in 2025? We have already told you what new restrictions, bans and fines await tourists in the most popular countries – Spain, Italy, France, Greece, the Netherlands and others.

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