Ryanair enforces strict baggage policy and penalties at boarding gates

Ryanair has announced stringent measures to ensure passengers comply with its baggage policy, warning that those who fail to follow the rules will face additional charges and have their hand luggage placed in the aircraft hold, and reinforces their reputation of having some of the strictest baggage limits among the UK's major airlines.

Under the standard Ryanair policy, passengers are only allowed to bring a small personal bag, measuring up to 40x20x25cm, which must fit under the airplane seat.

For an additional fee, travellers can opt for an upgrade to carry an extra 10kg cabin bag, sized up to 55x40x20cm, which can be stored in the overhead locker.

The airline's staff are known to rigorously measure cabin bags at the gate, and any bag that exceeds the paid allowance will be flagged, resulting in the passenger being charged a fee of £46. The oversized bag will then be tagged and placed in the aircraft hold, requiring passengers to retrieve it from the baggage carousel at their destination.

A statement on Ryanair's website emphasises the importance of following baggage limits: "You must adhere strictly to the baggage allowance on your booking. If your small bag or 10kg cabin bag does not fit in the baggage sizers, which are placed at every boarding gate, we will tag your bag and place it in the aircraft hold subject to payment of a gate bag fee. You can collect it on the baggage carousel at your arrival airport."

To avoid these penalties, passengers are encouraged to upgrade their baggage allowance in advance. Adding Priority Boarding to a ticket, which includes a small personal bag and a 10kg cabin bag, can be done either at the time of booking or via the Ryanair app up to two hours before the flight. This service starts from £6, though prices vary based on the date and route.

In instances where Priority Boarding is sold out, travellers still have the option to add a 10kg checked-in bag to their booking, which can be dropped off at the Ryanair bag drop desk before passing through security.

Ryanair claim that these measures aim to streamline the boarding process and ensure all passengers adhere to the established baggage guidelines, ultimately enhancing the overall travel experience.