UK Airline Hand Luggage Rules Explained: Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, Jet2
Navigating hand luggage regulations can be confusing for travellers, especially when using different airlines based on destination, airport, or cost. To help you prepare for your next trip, here is a detailed breakdown of cabin baggage and duty-free rules for four major UK carriers: Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, and Jet2.
Understanding these guidelines is crucial to avoid surprises at the airport. Most airlines allow a small personal item free of charge, but allowances for cabin bags and duty-free purchases vary significantly.
Ryanair Hand Luggage Policy
Ryanair includes a small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) with all fares, which must fit under the seat. There is no official weight limit, but passengers must be able to carry it onboard. Priority boarding permits an additional 10kg cabin bag (55 x 40 x 20 cm) for overhead lockers.
For duty-free, Ryanair allows purchases to be carried separately alongside cabin bags. Infants (8 days to 23 months) have no cabin allowance, but parents can bring a 5kg baby bag (45 x 35 x 20 cm) and two baby items free of charge. Checked baggage options of 10kg, 20kg, or 23kg are available for purchase.
easyJet Hand Luggage Policy
easyJet passengers can bring one small bag (45 x 36 x 20 cm) free of charge, weighing up to 15kg, which must fit under the seat. An additional cabin bag (56 x 45 x 25 cm) can be purchased or is included with Speedy Boarding, easyJet Plus, or Inclusive Plus fares.
Regarding duty-free, the airline permits extra items like an umbrella, overcoat, or one standard bag of airport purchases. Passengers must be able to lift and carry their bags themselves. Checked luggage is available as an add-on option.
TUI Hand Luggage Policy
TUI allows one piece of hand luggage (55 x 40 x 20 cm) free of charge, not exceeding 10kg, plus one small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) that fits under the seat. A duty-free bag is also permitted, but liquids must be in a sealed security bag with the receipt throughout the journey.
Checked bags of 20kg or 25kg can be added for a fee. Infants are excluded from the free hand luggage allowance, so it is important to plan accordingly.
Jet2 Hand Luggage Policy
Jet2 offers a generous allowance: passengers can bring a small bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) or duty-free bag under the seat, plus one free piece of hand luggage (56 x 45 x 25 cm) not exceeding 10kg. Parents with infants under 2 years get an extra 10kg allowance and can bring two items per child, such as a pushchair or car seat, free of charge.
General Packing Restrictions for Hand Luggage
Beyond airline-specific rules, there are standard packing restrictions to remember:
- Liquids: Many airports limit liquids to 100ml, but some UK airports have removed this rule. Check with your departure and arrival airports, as international rules may differ.
- Lighters: Only one lighter is allowed per passenger, placed in a resealable plastic bag in carry-on luggage and kept on your person during the flight.
- Food and Powders: These can cause delays at security by obstructing X-ray images. Pack them in hold luggage if possible to avoid manual checks.
- Frozen Items: Generally not permitted in hand luggage, except for medicines, medical equipment, dietary needs, baby food, or baby milk. Confirm with your airline beforehand.
- Sharp Objects: Scissors with blades under 6cm are allowed in carry-on; larger items should go in hold luggage. Check airline specifics to prevent confiscation.
Airlines may have additional rules, so always verify directly with your carrier before travelling to ensure a smooth airport experience and avoid last-minute issues.
