How to overcome the limits on Ryanair's hand luggage

Ryanair, one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines, is known for its strict policies on hand luggage. Passengers are only allowed to bring one small personal bag on board for free, while larger cabin bags need to be checked in or come with an additional fee. However, there are ways that travelers can overcome these limits and make the most of their hand luggage allowance.

Firstly, it’s important to understand Ryanair’s hand luggage dimensions. According to their policy, the small personal bag should have maximum dimensions of 40cm x 20cm x 25cm and can weigh up to 10kg. This bag is meant to fit under the seat in front of you. However, it’s worth noting that Ryanair has recently introduced a new policy allowing only Priority Boarding passengers to bring both a small bag and a larger cabin bag on board. The larger cabin bag should have maximum dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm and a weight limit of 10kg.

To overcome the limits on Ryanair’s hand luggage, here are some tips:

1. Pack smart: Ensure that you pack only the essentials and avoid unnecessary items or bulky items that may take up too much space. Consider wearing your heaviest clothes and shoes instead of packing them.

2. Invest in a compact bag: Look for bags that meet Ryanair’s dimensions and allow for maximum packing capacity. There are many lightweight and compact options available in the market that are specifically designed for low-cost airline regulations.

3. Utilize storage pockets: Opt for bags that come with multiple compartments or storage pockets. This will help you organize your belongings better and efficiently use the available space.

4. Wear your larger coat: If you are traveling with a bulky winter coat or jacket, wear it instead of packing it. This will save space in your bag and also keep you warm during the flight.

5. Consider vacuum sealing: If you need to pack bulkier items, such as towels or jackets, consider vacuum sealing them. This will compress the items and save space in your bag.

6. Take advantage of pockets and sleeves: Utilize the pockets and sleeves in your clothing to store smaller items like socks, underwear, or chargers. This will help maximize space in your bag for other essentials.

7. Check in larger items: If you need to bring larger items, such as sports equipment or fragile items, consider checking them in as hold luggage. While this may incur an additional fee, it ensures that you can bring everything you need without worrying about the limited hand luggage space.

8. Upgrade to Priority Boarding: If you anticipate needing more space or are simply carrying additional items, consider upgrading to Priority Boarding. This will allow you to bring both a small personal bag and a larger cabin bag on board, giving you more flexibility with your hand luggage.

In conclusion, while Ryanair may have strict policies on hand luggage, there are ways to overcome the limits and make the most of your allowance. By packing smart, investing in the right bags, and utilizing space-saving techniques, you can ensure that you have everything you need while traveling with Ryanair. Remember to always check their latest policies and dimensions before your flight to avoid any surprises or additional charges.