Hand Luggage Charges Banned in Europe – What It Means for Your Next Trip

There’s a big win coming for travellers across Europe – and it’s about time.

Airlines operating within the EU will soon be banned from charging for basic hand luggage, following a long-awaited ruling from the European Parliament. That means your cabin bag will have to be included in your ticket price, not treated like an optional extra.

For holidaymakers, this is huge. It’s not just about the money – it’s about clarity, fairness and bringing back a bit of common sense to air travel.

So, what’s changing?

This new regulation applies to all flights by EU-registered airlines both within, and to and from, the EU, ensuring passengers can bring a “reasonable” amount of hand luggage onboard free of charge. No more hidden fees or last-minute panic at the gate.

The ruling is designed to stop airlines from advertising seemingly low fares and then adding hefty luggage charges at checkout. It’s a step toward more transparent pricing and a more straightforward booking process. And for those of us who travel light, it means you’ll no longer feel penalised for packing smart.

Will it apply to UK travellers?

While the UK is no longer part of the EU, many flights between the UK and EU destinations are operated by European carriers – so yes, this change is still likely to impact UK-based travellers, especially when flying with major EU-based airlines like Ryanair, easyJet (EU-registered), Lufthansa, Vueling and more.

It’s also a strong signal to other airlines – both in and outside of the EU – that the era of overcharging for overhead cabin space could soon be over.

When will the new rule come into effect?

The fine details, including timelines, are still being ironed out – but the decision has been made, and the regulation is in motion. Once implemented (which could be as soon as this Summer), it’s expected to be standard practice across EU airlines.

What this means for you as a traveller

At Not Just Travel, we’re always focused on making travel better. This new rule means less stress, fewer surprise charges, and more value baked into your fare. It also makes those weekend getaways and short breaks even more appealing – because let’s face it, you can do a lot with 10kg and a well-packed bag!

And remember, when you book with me, I'll always guide you through the small print, the airline policies, and the baggage rules – so you know exactly what’s included before you fly.

No guesswork. No hidden fees. Just proper, personal service.