In a rare but welcome move, Ryanair has officially confirmed it will expand its free baggage allowance for passengers, marking a significant shift in the low-cost carrier’s notoriously strict baggage policy. Ryanair baggage allowance

This announcement is expected to affect millions of travelers across Europe — especially budget-conscious flyers and digital nomads who rely on Ryanair’s extensive short-haul network.

Why the Change?

Ryanair, often known for ultra-low fares and pay-per-use services, appears to be responding to increasing competition, customer feedback, and evolving travel trends. With rival carriers like easyJet, Wizz Air, and Vueling offering slightly more generous baggage options — and customers becoming more vocal online — Ryanair may be adjusting its policy to improve customer satisfaction and retention.

What’s Changing?

While Ryanair hasn’t reverted to its pre-2018 policy entirely, the airline confirmed the following updates:

• Passengers with Priority Boarding will now be allowed to bring one additional small cabin bag for free, alongside their usual 10kg cabin bag.
• For non-priority passengers, the permitted size of the under-seat bag has been slightly increased, allowing for more practical daypacks, laptop bags, or compact travel totes.
• Ryanair will reduce the fees for checked bags (especially on off-peak routes), offering more affordable options for travelers needing extra luggage.

These updates are expected to roll out across Ryanair’s network in autumn 2025, just in time for the winter travel season and holiday rush.

Who Benefits Most?

This move is likely to please:

• Weekend travelers and short-stay passengers who prefer to fly with only cabin baggage.
• Digital nomads and remote workers who rely on budget carriers and flexible travel setups.
• Families and leisure travelers who were often forced to pay extra for seemingly minor baggage upgrades.

It’s also a strategic play to regain loyalty from frequent travelers who have shifted to competitors in recent years.

The Bigger Picture: Ryanair’s Image Shift?

This policy change could be part of a larger image refresh. While Ryanair still thrives on being a no-frills airline, it seems increasingly aware of the need to soften its sharpest edges — especially in an era where social media backlash and online reviews can influence booking behavior overnight.

Ryanair’s move may also signal an effort to reduce friction in the boarding process. Overcrowded overhead bins and long queues have been pain points for years, and tweaking baggage allowances could ease pressure without adding major operational costs.

How to Take Advantage

If you’re flying with Ryanair later this year:

• Book Priority Boarding early — this tier offers the best value under the new policy.
• Double-check your baggage dimensions — the new sizes will be listed in the Ryanair app and website once rolled out.
• Keep an eye out for reduced checked bag prices, especially for off-season and midweek flights.

Bottom Line

Ryanair’s expansion of its free baggage allowance is a rare win for travelers in a time when most airlines are trimming perks or raising prices. While still far from generous compared to legacy carriers, this update brings a bit more flexibility to Europe’s most popular low-cost airline — and that’s good news for anyone trying to travel smarter and cheaper.