It used to be common for passengers to carry hand luggage on flights for free. However, now more and more airlines are charging a fee. Ryanair was the first to start this trend in November 2018. In our overview, we explain which airlines charge passengers for hand luggage.
These Airlines Charge Fees for Hand Luggage Trolleys
Eurowings: For passengers with a Basic fare, only one small bag up to 16 x 12 x 9 inches is allowed for free in the cabin. According to Eurowings, these dimensions correspond to a laptop bag, a medium-sized handbag, or a business backpack. Additional hand luggage can be booked starting at 10 euros. You also get 'Priority' status, allowing you to board earlier.
Ryanair: Ryanair ended free hand luggage allowance on November 1, 2018. A bag that fits under the front seat is allowed (Maximum dimensions: 16 x 8 x 9 inches). For an additional bag weighing up to 22 pounds with maximum dimensions of 22 x 16 x 8 inches, passengers must pay extra, often by purchasing Priority boarding. This costs between 8 and 32 euros depending on the route.
Wizz Air: With this airline, only one bag with maximum dimensions of 16 x 12 x 8 inches and a maximum weight of 22 pounds is allowed. Passengers who want a small rolling suitcase in the cabin must purchase Priority. The cost ranges from 5 to 40 euros when booking online and 25 euros at the counter.
Easyjet: The airline introduced new hand luggage rules in February 2021. Now all passengers are only allowed one small hand luggage piece with a maximum size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches, which must fit under the front seat. Those who book a more expensive seat in the front or with extra legroom can take an additional bag up to 22 x 18 x 10 inches. The cost for this begins at 7.99 euros. Others must add checked luggage, which costs between 8.99 and 58 euros.
Norwegian: A hand luggage trolley is no longer included in the Low-Fare price. Although the bag can still weigh up to 22 pounds, if it does not fit under the front seat, passengers face extra costs. 'Those who want to take a small trolley that fits in the overhead compartment can pay a little extra or book a different category,' said an airline spokesperson to a bettercities.net. The price for this is between 50 and 90 Norwegian kroner (approximately 5 to 9 euros).
Vueling: Passengers with the Basic fare can only take a small bag (maximum 16 x 8 x 12 inches) under the seat. Those who want more can check hand luggage with a size of up to 22 x 16 x 8 inches and a maximum weight of 22 pounds for free. Or, they can book Optima, Family, or Timeflex fares, then carry the larger hand luggage in the cabin.
SunExpress: Travelers who booked the 'Sun Light' fare with SunExpress can also take only one small bag (16 x 12 x 8 inches) on board. For other fares of the low-cost subsidiary of the Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines joint venture, the maximum hand luggage weight is 18 pounds. The dimensions must not exceed 22 x 16 x 9 inches. Larger luggage must be checked in, with costs between 19.99 euros and 69.99 euros for international flights.
Travel Reporter