How to Dodge Ryanair Baggage Fees: Insider Tips from a Cabin Crew Friend
Flying with Ryanair for the first time can be daunting if you’re worried about unexpected luggage charges. My friend “Annalisa,” who works as a cabin crew member, let me in on her top secrets to avoid paying extra fees for carry-on bags. With these practical strategies, you’ll breeze through airport checks without spending a penny more on your luggage.
Master the Official Carry-On Size
Ryanair’s basic ticket includes only a small personal bag, strictly no larger than 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Even a slight oversize can trigger hefty charges at boarding. Annalisa’s first rule:
- Choose a flexible, soft-sided backpack designed exactly to those dimensions.
- Avoid rigid cabin cases that rarely squeeze under the measurement bar, even when “barely packed.”
- Empty or zip up any side pockets so nothing protrudes during inspection.
This small backpack, snug to the cabin bag checks, won’t set off alarms and still holds essentials like your wallet, phone, and a thin jumper.
Layer Your Wardrobe to Lighten Your Load
One of Annalisa’s favourite hacks is also the easiest to implement—wear it all:
- Dress in multiple layers: T-shirt, shirt, sweatshirt, even a lightweight jacket.
- Tie an extra coat or jumper around your waist instead of packing it.
- This works best in cooler seasons; in summer, opt for a loose scarf or pashmina as a wrap.
Not only does this strategy free up precious backpack space, but it also keeps you cosy on cold flights and eliminates the need for a bulky jumper in your bag.
Use a Duty-Free or Compact Tote as a Second Bag
Another trick that slips under the radar is carrying a small duty-free or lightweight tote in your hand. Airport staff rarely count this as a second bag if it looks like a recent purchase or a reusable shopping bag. Annalisa explains:
- Hold a duty-free plastic bag from security purchases in one hand.
- Place your boarding pass discreetly inside to appear legitimate.
- Combine this with your personal backpack for extra capacity without extra cost.
Just be sure not to overload it—keep the tote small and light to avoid scrutiny.
Skip Priority Boarding (Sometimes)
Ryanair’s Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option promises a second larger carry-on and faster boarding, but it’s not always worth the extra expense. Annalisa observes:
- Many passengers buy priority simply for the extra bag allowance, yet rarely fill both bags.
- If your essentials all fit inside one personal backpack plus a small tote, you can skip paying for priority.
- Board early in standard group boarding to secure space in the overhead compartments.
This method works well on less crowded flights, but consider priority only if you truly need the overhead space or guaranteed boarding order.
Maximise Packing Efficiency with Compression
Beyond Annalisa’s insider advice, you can further optimise your bag by using compression techniques:
- Roll, don’t fold: Rolling garments creates less bulk and prevents creases.
- Use packing cubes: These small organisers compress clothes and keep your backpack tidy.
- Wear bulkiest items: Bulky trainers or heavy jeans can be worn on the plane to free up room.
Combining rolling and packing cubes ensures every inch of your backpack is used, allowing you to fit more items while still meeting size requirements.
Stay Within Weight Limits
Though Ryanair does not weigh personal bags at gate checks as strictly as larger cabin bags, staying light is key. Annalisa recommends:
- Weigh your packed backpack at home with a kitchen scale to ensure you’re under typical carry-on thresholds (5–7 kg).
- Pack multi-use items like a sarong that acts as a wrap, towel and blanket.
- Opt for travel-size toiletries to cut down on weight.
Avoid last-minute gate surprises by verifying your bag’s weight during your final home checks.
Essential Items to Pack in Your Personal Bag
When you’re limited to one small backpack plus a light tote, choose items mindfully:
- Travel documents: Passport, boarding pass, credit card, and travel insurance info.
- Valuables: Phone, camera, headphones, and any essential medication.
- Comfort items: A light scarf, sleep mask, and earplugs help relax on long flights.
- Hygiene essentials: Pocket-size hand sanitizer, tissues, and lip balm.
With these core items, you’ll be prepared for any in-flight or airport eventuality without breaching bag size rules.
Fly Smart, Save Big
Daisy’s takeaway from Annalisa’s insider tips? You don’t need to sacrifice style or convenience to avoid Ryanair baggage fees. A well-fitting soft backpack, clever layering, a discreet tote and smart packing techniques will help you fly hassle-free. Next time you book a Ryanair flight, implement these tricks and watch the savings roll in—so you can spend more on your adventure and less on extra charges!
