Ryanair and easyJet passengers warned not to pack three items in hand luggage to save money

SCHÖNEFELD, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 26: Passengers board an EasyJet airplane bound for London Luton (LTN) Airport on February 26, 2024 at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg, BER) in Schönefeld, near Berlin, Germany. After a four-year absence, the budget airline, whose share price rose 28% over the last six months, is set to move back into the FTSE 100 stock index in the latter's latest quarterly reshuffle. (Photo by Adam Berry/Getty Images)
The holiday season is upon us -Credit:Adam Berry/Getty Images


Holidaymakers flying with budget-airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet will often use hand luggage only to save money and carry less bags.

This is because some airlines will charge extra if you want to take a larger cabin bag or an item of checked luggage. And if you do show up at the airport with more than your allotted allowance, you could face eye-watering excess fee.

Matthew Corrigan, CEO of Trtl Travel, explained that one of the best ways to make the most of your luggage allowance is to be strategic with your packing. He explained: "Airlines such as Ryanair, British Airways, easyJet and Jet2 are cracking down on hand luggage passengers."

In recent years, airlines have limited the amount of hand luggage passengers can bring onboard. For example, Ryanair passengers are now only entitled to one small luggage item per person, reports the Express.

The CEO continued: "One of the main drawbacks of heading off on holiday with only a carry-on bag is significantly less space for your belongings. While this may seem like a deal-breaker, there are some simple ways to maximise the space in your hand luggage."

So what items should you not pack for holiday?

Matthew explained: “Avoid packing items that will be provided by the accommodation - such as hairdryers, towels, and toiletries. Only bring items you know you’ll use, and try to share phone chargers and other technology wherever possible.”

While these three items may be something you use every day, the chances are your accommodation will provide these. It's worth double-checking with your hotel or accommodation provider before jetting off to make sure.

packed suitcase
There are many ways you can take what you need - and save space -Credit:Getty

Toiletries can also be easily purchased at your destination to save space. Additionally, if you're travelling to a colder destination that requires a coat or thick jumpers, Matthew advises against putting these into your hand luggage and instead suggests wearing them.

You can always carry your coat if it gets too hot in the airport, and it won't be counted as a luggage item should you wish to pop it into the overhead locker once onboard. He added: "It’s best to wear large items such as jumpers and coats onto the plane rather than packing them. This frees up space and ensures you don't get cold during the flight."

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