Ryanair carry-on 2026: sizes, rules and the best bag that flies free
Flying with Ryanair and would rather not be caught out at the gate? The carry-on rules changed on one important point in 2026: the free small bag is now allowed to be bigger. Below we set out the complete Ryanair carry-on 2026 picture - what is free, what Priority costs, the exact sizes - and how the right bag means you never pay extra again.
Ryanair carry-on 2026: what can you bring?
With Ryanair, every passenger is entitled to one free small bag. Want to bring more? Then you add Priority & 2 Cabin Bags. These are the options (as of 2026):
| Type | Maximum size | Weight | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small bag (under the seat) | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | — | Free with every ticket |
| Cabin bag (overhead locker) | 55 x 40 x 20 cm | 10 kg | Only with Priority (paid) |
| Checked baggage | varies | 10 or 20 kg | Paid |
As of June 2026. Ryanair can change its policy - always check the current rules in your booking before you fly.
The big news: the free bag has got bigger
Until recently, Ryanair's free small bag was limited to a rather tight format. In 2026 that free size was increased to 40 x 30 x 20 cm - the same size used by Wizz Air, Transavia and Volotea. That means you can now take a full-size travel backpack under the seat for free, instead of just a small shoulder bag.
So the smart move is to pick a bag that makes the most of those 40 x 30 x 20 cm while staying just inside them. Our Lundholm Underseater is built for exactly that: 40 x 30 x 16 cm, 22 liters, with a padded 15.6" laptop compartment, TSA lock and waterproof material.
The bag that flies free with Ryanair
Lundholm Underseater - 40 x 30 x 16 cm, inside the free 40x30x20 allowance. 22L, laptop compartment, TSA lock, waterproof.
EUR 49.95 EUR 64.95
Bags and leather goods ship within the EU only. Jewelry ships worldwide.
Do I need to buy Priority?
That depends on how much you bring. For a weekend away or a city break, the free small bag is often plenty - certainly with a well-organized 22-liter underseater. If you are going away for longer or taking a lot with you, Priority (with the 10 kg cabin bag of 55 x 40 x 20 cm in the overhead locker) is more convenient. Do the math: Priority costs €8–€32 per flight, so on short trips you save that by packing smartly in the free bag.
Avoid a penalty at the gate
Ryanair checks strictly with baggage sizers at the gate. If your bag does not fit, it goes in the hold after all - at a steep rate. That is why a bag that stays comfortably within the limit (such as 40 x 30 x 16 cm) is safer than one that is right on the millimeter. Tips:
Measure including wheels, handles and protruding pockets - those count. Do not overstuff: a bulging bag ends up thicker than the limit. With the compression straps on the Underseater you can pull it tight and compact.
Frequently asked questions about Ryanair carry-on 2026
What can you take for free as carry-on with Ryanair in 2026?
One small bag that fits under the seat, up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. It is included with every ticket. A larger cabin bag (55 x 40 x 20 cm, 10 kg) in the overhead locker is only allowed with Priority, for a fee.
How big can the free Ryanair bag be?
A maximum of 40 x 30 x 20 cm (increased in 2026). A travel backpack like the Lundholm Underseater (40 x 30 x 16 cm) fits within that and makes the most of the space.
Is there a weight limit for the free small bag?
For the free small bag, Ryanair mainly applies a size limit (40 x 30 x 20 cm). The paid cabin bag does have a weight limit of 10 kg. Either way, keep your bag manageable, because you lift it in and out yourself.
Do I need to buy Priority with Ryanair?
Not necessarily. For a short trip the free small bag is often enough. Priority is handy if you bring more and want the 10 kg cabin bag in the overhead locker. Work out whether the extra cost (€8–€32 per flight) is worth it.
What if my bag is too big at the gate?
If your bag does not fit the sizer, it is refused or put in the hold at a steep rate. So choose a bag that stays comfortably within the limit and do not overstuff it.
Does a backpack fit under the seat on Ryanair?
Yes, as long as it is within 40 x 30 x 20 cm. An underseater backpack is designed specifically for this: it slides under the seat in front of you and counts as your free small bag.
Love, the Lundholm team
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