UK Airlines Hand Luggage Comparison 2026
Different airlines have different rules. Here's your definitive guide to what you can actually bring in the cabin.
Quick Comparison Table
| Airline | Free Cabin Bag | Additional Cabin Bag |
|---|---|---|
| easyJet | 45x36x20cm (small bag) | 56x45x25cm (with paid seat) |
| Ryanair | 40x20x25cm (small bag) | 55x40x20cm (priority £6-20) |
| British Airways | 40x30x15cm (handbag) | 56x45x25cm (free) |
| Jet2 | 56x45x25cm (10kg) | N/A |
| TUI Airways | 55x40x20cm (10kg) | N/A |
easyJet Hand Luggage Details
Free for everyone:
- One small cabin bag (45cm x 36cm x 20cm)
- Must fit under the seat
- No weight limit
Large cabin bag requires:
- Up Front seat, OR
- Extra Legroom seat, OR
- easyJet Plus, OR
- FLEXI fare
Ryanair Hand Luggage Details
Free for everyone:
- One small personal bag (40cm x 20cm x 25cm)
- Must fit under the seat
Priority & 2 Cabin Bags (£6-20):
- Small bag PLUS 10kg bag (55cm x 40cm x 20cm)
- Board first
- Access to overhead lockers
British Airways Hand Luggage Details
Everyone gets TWO bags:
- One cabin bag (56cm x 45cm x 25cm, max 23kg)
- One personal item (40cm x 30cm x 15cm)
- Both FREE on all fares
Jet2 Hand Luggage Details
Free for everyone:
- One cabin bag (56cm x 45cm x 25cm)
- Maximum weight: 10kg
- No additional personal item included
TUI Airways Hand Luggage Details
Free for everyone:
- One cabin bag (55cm x 40cm x 20cm)
- Maximum weight: 10kg
- No additional personal item included
What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Big?
- easyJet: £48 gate fee (checked to hold)
- Ryanair: €/£25 gate fee (checked to hold)
- British Airways: Usually accepted if reasonable
- Jet2: May be checked for free if weight OK
- TUI: May be checked for free if weight OK
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Bag
- Measure your bag: Include wheels and handles
- Check airline rules: Always verify on airline website before flying
- Use soft bags: Easier to squeeze into sizers
- Pack smart: Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane
- Budget airlines: Consider paying for larger bag if you have more than personal items
Recommended Cabin Bags
Look for bags specifically designed for cabin use:
- Bags labelled "Ryanair approved" (usually 55x40x20cm)
- Foldable bags for under-seat storage
- Bags with compression straps
- Wheeled bags meeting the smaller dimensions
Remember: Airlines do enforce these rules, especially during busy periods. It's worth investing in a properly-sized cabin bag to avoid gate fees and stress.
Written by
WhichTerminal Team