Ryanair & EasyJet Carry‑On Survival Guide: Pack Smart and Beat the Fees

Why baggage rules matter

Anyone who’s queued at the gate with a bulging backpack knows the dread of seeing the metal bag sizer. Budget airlines make their money on “extras”, so a bag that doesn’t slide into the sizer can cost you £60 on the spot. That’s money better spent on a long weekend pint.

In summer 2025, Ryanair quietly loosened its rules: the free personal‑item allowance increased by 20 %, from 40 × 25 × 20 cm to 40 × 30 × 20 cm. EasyJet has been more generous for years, letting everyone bring one under‑seat cabin bag up to 45 × 36 × 20 cm with no weight limit. Yet both airlines still charge eye‑watering penalties if your bag doesn’t fit. Knowing the latest limits—and how to pack for them—is the difference between breezing past the gate and paying an unexpected fee.

Comparing Ryanair & EasyJet rules

Below is a quick reference for what you’re allowed to carry on without paying extra:

Ryanair’s change brings it closer to the EU standard bag size (40 × 30 × 15 cm), but the airline warns that bag sizers will take time to update. Until then, pack to the new size but expect the older sizers to linger. EasyJet’s allowance is more generous, yet its optional second bag costs extra and must fit overhead.

If you’re travelling on Wizz Air or another carrier, check the dimensions too, many align with Ryanair’s new 40 × 30 × 20 cm rule.

Choosing the right bag

When every centimetre counts, the shape and structure of your bag matter. A rigid suitcase wastes precious volume on wheels and a frame; a soft backpack can mould into the sizer without bulging. The BRAW Explorer backpack is built to fit both Ryanair’s and EasyJet’s under‑seat limits. It measures 20 litres at its base (40 × 30 × 20 cm) but expands to 25 litres for carriers like easyJet (45 × 36 × 20 cm). Its compression system pulls the bag flat with one strap, so you don’t need separate vacuum bags or pumps.

Proven packing strategies

Roll, don’t fold

Rolling clothing not only saves space but keeps wrinkles at bay. Lay items flat, fold sleeves inward, then roll tightly from the bottom up. Socks and underwear can be stuffed into shoes to use every corner.

Use packing cubes (but don’t over‑cube)

Packing cubes help segment outfits and keep your bag neat. For budget flights, limit yourself to one medium cube for clothes and a smaller one for underwear and swimwear. Too many cubes will add bulk and reduce flexibility.

Leverage compression

If you need to bring bulkier items (jumpers, jeans), put them in the Explorer’s compression section. Pull the strap until you feel resistance, then zip the bag shut.It's double compression. But mind the weight

EasyJet technically allows up to 15 kg, but you’re still carrying it onto the plane—your back will thank you for packing less. Ryanair doesn’t state a weight limit for the under‑seat bag, but gate staff may eyeball an obviously heavy bag.

Carry‑on packing checklist

A good packing list stops you from overloading. Adapt this to your trip length and climate:

• Clothing: 2 × tops, 2 × bottoms, 1 × light layer, underwear & socks for each day, 1 × sleepwear.

• Toiletries: Toothbrush/paste (travel size), deodorant, contact lenses. Liquids must fit in a 1 litre bag.

• Electronics: Phone, charger, travel adaptor, lightweight laptop or tablet. Put cords in a small pouch.

• Documents: Passport, boarding pass, EHIC/GHIC, travel insurance.

• Extras: Empty water bottle, reading material, snacks. EasyJet allows one additional duty‑free bag, use it for lunch or souvenirs.

Leave chunky coats at home; wear them on the plane if it’s cold. Avoid packing “just in case” shoes—one versatile pair will do.

Avoiding common pitfalls

• Don’t trust old sizer dimensions. Until Ryanair updates all sizers, aim for 40 × 30 × 20 cm. If your bag squeezes in at home, it will fit at the airport.

• Beware gate fees. Ryanair will charge £60 for an oversized bag; EasyJet charges £50. Measure before you leave, and don’t assume you can “squeeze by”.

• Consider your return journey. Souvenirs add bulk. Leave some space or pack a foldable tote for the trip home (EasyJet allows a duty‑free bag; Ryanair doesn’t, but a flat tote fits in your main bag).

• Check your ticket. EasyJet’s large cabin bag requires an Up Front/Extra‑Legroom seat. Ryanair’s 10 kg bag is only for Priority customers. Don’t rock up assuming you have overhead space.

The BRAW difference (and why it matters)

A bag isn’t just a container; it’s your ticket to a stress‑free holiday. BRAW’s Explorer bag lets you skip the gadgets and still fit more. Its base size is designed for Ryanair’s stricter limit (40 × 30 × 20 cm), yet it expands to fit easyJet’s allowance (45 × 36 × 20 cm). The compression panel flattens your clothes so you can pack 50 % more without paying a penny more.

Final thoughts (and your next step)

Navigating carry‑on rules isn’t about memorising numbers; it’s about understanding the airlines’ motives and planning accordingly. Ryanair’s 2025 bag‑size increase shows that pressure from passengers (and the EU) can change policies, but fees remain a lucrative revenue stream. EasyJet offers slightly more space but still charges if you misjudge.

Pack within the limits, choose gear built for budget airlines, and you’ll never stand sweating at the gate again. Ready to beat the fees? See how the BRAW Explorer backpack fits both Ryanair’s and EasyJet’s rules and start packing smarter.