Before embarking on your journey at the airport, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the hand luggage limitations and duty-free regulations that may not be widely known, especially when flying with airlines like TUI and Ryanair.
Given that many travelers choose different airlines based on factors such as destination, airport, and pricing, it can be challenging to keep track of the diverse hand luggage allowances and restrictions. While most airlines permit passengers to bring a small personal bag for free, which can range from a backpack to a handbag, some also offer the added benefit of a complimentary cabin bag.
Confusion often arises regarding carrying duty-free items alongside personal or cabin bags. This leaves holidaymakers questioning whether duty-free purchases can be carried separately or if they need to be packed within their existing bags.
To ensure you are fully prepared for your upcoming trip, we have detailed the primary hand luggage guidelines for four major UK airlines. This information will help you determine the appropriate size for your bag and how to manage duty-free items before boarding your flight.
When it comes to duty-free items, Ryanair allows passengers to bring them onboard along with their cabin bags. Additionally, travelers flying with Ryanair have the option to purchase checked bags of varying weights while traveling.
Ryanair fares include a small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) that must fit under the seat in front of you. Although there is no specified weight limit for this bag, it typically includes items like a handbag, laptop bag, or small rucksack, as long as passengers can carry it onboard.
Passengers who opt for Priority boarding can also carry an additional 10kg cabin bag (55 x 40 x 20cm) that fits in the overhead lockers. Infants aged 8 days to 23 months do not have a cabin allowance, but parents or guardians can bring a 5kg baby bag (45 x 35 x 20 cm) and two baby items onboard for free.
For detailed information, visit the Ryanair website.
Regarding duty-free regulations, Ryanair permits additional items to be brought into the cabin, such as umbrellas, overcoats, crutches, walking sticks, and one standard bag of goods purchased at the airport.
All easyJet passengers are entitled to carry one small bag (45 x 36 x 20 cm) onboard for free, which must fit under the seat in front. The bag can weigh up to 15kg, but it is important to ensure it adheres to the specified measurements, including handles and wheels.
Travelers flying with easyJet are required to lift and carry the bag themselves. Additionally, passengers have the option to purchase an extra cabin bag (56 x 45 x 25 cm) that fits in the overhead lockers, which includes the Speedy Boarding service.
For easyJet Plus members and customers booking an Inclusive Plus fare, they can bring a large cabin bag onboard in addition to the standard cabin bag, with the option to book checked-in luggage as well.
For more details, visit the easyJet website.
TUI customers can bring one piece of hand luggage (55 x 40 x 20cm) onboard for free, excluding infants, with a maximum weight of 10kg. Additionally, one small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20cm) is allowed onboard, which must fit under the seat in front.
Duty-free items are also permitted onboard, with specific requirements outlined for liquids purchased at the airport. TUI specifies that liquids bought from duty-free must be carried in a sealed security bag provided at the airport, with passengers required to keep the item and receipt sealed throughout the journey.
Checked-in bags of 20kg or 25kg can be booked for an additional fee. For more information, visit the TUI website.
Jet2 allows holidaymakers to carry a small bag (40 x 30 x 20cm), such as a handbag or laptop bag, or a duty-free bag that fits under the seat in front. Travelers can also bring one piece of hand luggage (56cm x 45cm x 25cm) onboard for free, provided it meets the specified measurements and weight limit.
Parents with infants under 2 years old are granted an additional 10kg allowance and can bring two items per child or infant onboard at no extra cost, including a collapsible pushchair, car seat or booster, a baby carrier, and a travel cot.
For further information, visit the Jet2 website.
When it comes to hand luggage, it is important to be aware of certain packing restrictions that are generally consistent across all airlines. These restrictions include limitations on liquids, lighters, food and powders, frozen items, and sharp objects. It is advisable to check with your airline directly to avoid any surprises at airport security.
Remember, having an item confiscated at security can be frustrating, so always double-check your airline’s guidelines before your trip.
