Hand Luggage Size Explained: easyJet vs Ryanair vs BA
Compare cabin bag sizes across major UK airlines. Know exactly what you can bring on board with easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, Jet2, and TUI.
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
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| 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
Flying early? Don't risk the traffic. Stay minutes from the terminal with park & fly packages included.
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