Both Ryanair and Aer Lingus have updated their hand luggage rules for 2026, with new bag size allowances and cabin bag options you need to know before flying
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As the winter weather continues to batter Ireland, many of us are already fantasising about a sun-soaked holiday. However, with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, holidaymakers are seeking clever ways to save money – and packing smartly is one of the simplest methods.
For 2026, both Ryanair and Aer Lingus have revised their hand luggage regulations, making it crucial to know exactly what you’re allowed to bring on board. Ryanair passengers can carry one small bag under the seat free of charge, while Aer Lingus permits a larger 10kg carry-on plus a personal item.
Misjudging the size or weight of your luggage at the airport could result in hefty charges, so it’s always worth double-checking the airline’s policy.
There’s also a significant change at Dublin Airport. Thanks to next-generation security scanners, the old 100ml liquids limit has been relaxed.
Travellers can now carry up to two litres of liquids and gels, and laptops, tablets and other electronics no longer need to be removed from bags, reports the Irish Mirror.
However, passengers returning from European or UK destinations should check the rules at their departure airport, as not all scanners have been updated yet.
Here’s everything you need to know about Ryanair and Aer Lingus’ bag size rules for 2026.
Ryanair.
All Ryanair passengers can bring one small personal bag on board for free, which must fit under the seat in front of them. In 2026, the size allowance for this bag has increased slightly to 40 x 30 x 20 cm, up from the previous 40 x 20 x 25 cm.
Ryanair has warned that oversized hand luggage may be turned away at the boarding gate, or if possible, stowed in the hold for a fee of up to €70. The airline’s Priority and 2 Cabin Bags option allows passengers to board early and bring both their small personal bag and a 10kg suitcase measuring 55 x 40 x 20 cm, which must be stored in the overhead locker.
This service costs between €6 and €36 when booked in advance, or between €20 and €60 if added later or at the airport. Non-Priority passengers attempting to bring a 10kg cabin bag to the gate could face refusal or a charge ranging from €46 to €60 to have it placed in the hold.
For those with larger luggage requirements, bags can be checked in at the airport. Checked baggage should be dropped off at the check-in desk before security and will be placed in the aircraft hold.
Passengers can book:.
– A 10kg bag: €9.49 – €44.99.
– A 20kg bag: €18.99 – €59.99.
– A 23kg bag: €29.99 – €80.99.
Each passenger can book up to three 20kg bags or one 23kg bag. Those travelling with an infant are permitted to bring two items of baby equipment free of charge.
Infants aged eight days to 23 months do not receive a cabin bag allowance, but a 5kg baby bag measuring 45 x 35 x 20 cm is allowed for babies travelling on an adult’s lap.
Special items such as bikes, sports gear, ski equipment, golf clubs and musical instruments must weigh 20kg or less and cost between €40 to €75 per item per flight.
Aer Lingus.
All passengers are permitted one small personal item at no cost, such as a handbag, laptop bag or baby changing bag. In 2026, the maximum size for this bag will increase to 40 x 30 x 20 cm, up from the previous 25 x 33 x 20 cm.
Aer Lingus has also recently revised its baggage policy to allow two 10kg carry-on options for flights within Europe.
If your booking does not include a 10kg bag, you can add it online for €9.99. Alternatively, you can drop your bag at the check-in desk or bag drop kiosk (available in Dublin, Shannon, and London) when check-in opens and collect it from the bag carousel at your destination – this option is free of charge.
Passengers who bring a 10kg bag to the boarding gate without having purchased it, or if it is not included in their booking, will be charged €35 to have it placed in the aircraft hold.
Some travellers already have a 10kg carry-on included in their booking, including AerClub members, Reward Flight passengers, certain fare types, infants, connecting flight passenger and Aer Credit Card holders. These passengers must take their bag on board and can’t drop it off at check-in.
Carry-on bags must weigh 10kg or less and fit within 55 x 40 x 24 cm. The small personal item is still included for all passengers.
Aer Lingus passengers are permitted to check in one piece of sports equipment per flight, with a weight limit of up to 23kg. This can include items such as bicycles, golf bags, skis, snowboards, surfboards and diving gear.
The fees for this service typically range between €40 and €50 per item per flight, with the exception of North American flights or business class passengers, where the inclusion of sports equipment may already be factored in.
