Hand luggage for flights can be tricky due to airlines’ strict baggage allowances. Low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet are particularly rigid when it comes to what you’re allowed to take onboard. Both only now allow a small amount of hand luggage in the cabin for free.
Ryanair explained the importance of packing a “lightweight, foldable bag inside your carry-on luggage.”
This could prove very useful if Ryanair crew ask you to put your cabin baggage in the hold.
“If you’re asked to hand over your carry-on luggage to check-in crew at the last minute because the overhead lockers are full, you’ll have somewhere to stash your phone, e-reader, money, snacks and any other valuables you can’t live without during the flight.
“This small bag can then be placed under the seat in front of you.”
DON’T MISS
It’s not just about what you pack in your luggage, however, it’s also vital to think about how you put belongings in the bag itself.
Ryanair advises packing shoes first and lining the sides of your case with them.
“Stuff your shoes with socks and smaller items of clothing, gadgets or jewellery.
“This will also prevent your shoes from losing their shape,” recommended the airline.
Placing essentials at the top of your back so they’re easily accessible is also a good idea.
“Do place essentials (pjs, toothbrush, toothpaste) at the top of your bag if you’re landing at night so you don’t have the hassle of unpacking everything when you arrive at your destination,” said Ryanair.
It’s also well worth making copies of your vital documents. The airline advised: “Do make a copy of your passport, driving licence and/or ID card and email them to yourself. It’s also a good idea to take photos of these and save them to the camera on your phone in case you don’t have internet access when you get to your destination.”
Ryanair cabin bags can span no more than 40x20x25cm, anything over that will cost you a fee.
Fees for additional cabin bags start at £6, though also allow passengers “priority passenger” status.
