New EU Regulations: Airlines May Soon Charge for Cabin Bags – What You Need to Know

For years, travellers across Europe have grown accustomed to bringing a carry-on bag into the cabin free of charge. But change is on the horizon. Under new European regulations and enforcement policies, airlines may soon gain the right to charge passengers separately for carry-on or cabin luggage – a shift that could reshape the budget travel experience as we know it.

What’s Changing and Why?

The European Union has long maintained that passengers should have the right to carry on one piece of cabin baggage without additional fees, citing consumer protection and transparency. However, recent legal interpretations and regulatory decisions are starting to lean in favour of airlines’ commercial flexibility – particularly those operating low-cost models.

This shift comes as aviation regulators consider the delicate balance between fair pricing practices and the operational freedom of airlines to structure fares. In a recent ruling, it was stated that as long as the pricing is transparent and clearly communicated at the point of booking, airlines may be permitted to unbundle cabin bags from basic fare structures.

How This Affects You as a Traveller

Here’s what you can expect if these regulations take hold more widely:

• Basic fares may no longer include free cabin bags, even those small enough to fit in the overhead bin.

• You might need to pay an additional fee to bring a standard cabin bag onboard.

• Seat selection, priority boarding, and carry-on may now be bundled into “value” or “plus” fare types, pushing travellers toward higher-priced tickets.

• Airlines will be expected to display all fees clearly and upfront – no more surprise charges at the gate.

📏 What Was the Standard Free Cabin Bag Size?

Before these regulatory changes, most European airlines permitted a free cabin bag measuring up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm, plus a small personal item such as a handbag or laptop case. This standard allowed travellers to pack efficiently for short breaks and business trips without needing to check luggage.

While the exact dimensions varied slightly between carriers, the 55 x 40 x 20 cm guideline was widely accepted and reflected in luggage design across the industry.

Who’s Most Affected?

Budget airlines are most likely to take advantage of this change, particularly Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet, who have long experimented with restrictive carry-on policies. Business travellers and frequent flyers may not feel the sting as much, since many already opt for fare bundles that include cabin luggage.

However, occasional holidaymakers and students travelling on the cheapest tickets could be significantly affected, potentially paying more for what was previously considered a basic travel right.

What Can Travellers Do?

• Always read the fine print: Look for baggage allowances during booking and not just in the final stages.

• Compare total journey costs, not just base fares.

• Consider travel insurance or loyalty programmes that offer added baggage benefits.

• For short trips, optimise packing to fit within a personal item allowance.

Looking Ahead

As with many aviation policies, the final implementation will vary by airline and country, with legal challenges and consumer watchdogs likely to scrutinise any unfair practices. Nevertheless, the trend towards unbundled pricing is gaining traction, and passengers should prepare for a new reality where even cabin space comes at a cost.

If you value the convenience of travelling light without compromise, now is the time to stay informed – and perhaps rethink how you pack for your next European getaway.