Ryanair, easyJet and Jet2 Hand Luggage Sizes 2026: What You Can Take for Free

Paying for your bag at the gate is a rubbish way to start a holiday. Budget airlines make a lot of money from bags that are a centimetre too big, so check the rules before you pack.

Free under-seat bag sizes in 2026

Every major UK airline lets you bring one small personal item for free. It has to fit under the seat in front of you:

• Ryanair: 40 x 30 x 20cm
• easyJet: 45 x 36 x 20cm (including handles and wheels)
• Jet2: 40 x 30 x 20cm
• British Airways: 40 x 30 x 15cm

If you want a larger cabin bag in the overhead locker, Ryanair and easyJet charge extra for it. Jet2 and British Airways include a 56 x 45 x 25cm cabin bag in most fares.

How to avoid the gate fee

Measure your bag when it's full, not empty. A soft bag that measures 40cm empty can easily bulge to 45cm once it's packed. Gate staff measure what's in front of them, not what's on the label.

Use the sizer. If you're unsure, slide your bag into the metal sizer near the gate before boarding starts. It's far better to find out early than in the queue.

Compress your clothes. Rolling clothes, wearing your bulkiest layers on the plane and using a vacuum compression cube can free up a surprising amount of space.

A bag built for the rules

We designed The Vackpack around Ryanair's free under-seat size, with a built-in vacuum compression pocket so you can fit up to 50% more inside without the bag growing. If you fly Jet2 or British Airways and get a bigger cabin allowance, The Digital Nomad Backpack gives you a suitcase-style opening and a padded laptop compartment.

Airlines do change their rules, so always check your booking confirmation before you fly. Get the size right and you won't pay a penny for your bag.