Tuesday, August 20, 2024 As the peak summer travel season approaches, understanding airline hand luggage policies has become crucial for savvy travelers looking to avoid extra baggage fees. While Ryanair and easyJet are often known for their strict luggage policies, it’s actually Norwegian Air that has the smallest hand luggage allowance among major airlines. Norwegian Air’s Strict Hand Luggage Policy According to a recent analysis by Skyscanner, Norwegian Air imposes the most restrictive hand luggage allowance.
Passengers are permitted just one cabin bag, with no additional personal item allowed. The maximum dimensions for this bag are 30x20x38cm, and it must weigh no more than 10kg. This means travelers must be strategic in their packing, often wearing bulkier items like coats and boots to conserve space in their carry-on.
How Does Norwegian Air Compare to Other Airlines? Ryanair, which is often associated with strict luggage policies, comes in next with a slightly larger cabin bag size limit of 40x20x25cm. However, Ryanair does not impose a weight restriction, which offers some flexibility for travelers. Despite this, passengers are only allowed one bag with no secondary personal item, making it essential to maximize every inch of space.
On the other end of the spectrum, Aer Lingus offers the most generous hand luggage allowance. The only requirement for a cabin bag on Aer Lingus flights is that it must fit under the seat in front of you, with no weight limit imposed. This makes it a top choice for travelers who tend to overpack.
Virgin Atlantic also ranks high for its cabin bag policy, allowing a generous 56x36x23cm bag with a weight limit of 10kg. Similarly, British Airways allows passengers to carry two cabin bags, with dimensions of 56x40x23cm and 40x30x15cm, respectively. The only weight restriction is that passengers must be able to lift their bags into the overhead lockers without assistance, making it a more flexible option for those with heavier bags.
Considerations for Checked Luggage When it comes to checked luggage, Ryanair continues its strict approach, charging fees for checked bags and limiting the dimensions to 81cm x 119cm x 119cm with a maximum weight of 20kg. Additional bags incur a fee ranging from £25 to £40, depending on the weight. Ryanair also imposes a maximum of three checked bags per passenger.
In contrast, airlines like TUI, Vueling, Turkish Airlines, Jet2, Flybe, Aer Lingus, and Air Asia do not impose strict size restrictions on checked luggage. Among these, Air Asia allows a weight limit of up to 40kg, the highest among the listed carriers, though the cost can vary depending on the flight route. Final Tips for Travelers To avoid unexpected charges, it’s essential for travelers to familiarize themselves with their airline’s hand luggage policies before flying.
For those traveling with Norwegian Air, planning is key to making the most of the limited space. Meanwhile, airlines like Aer Lingus and British Airways offer more flexibility, making them preferable choices for those who need to carry more onboard. Whether you’re looking to travel light or pack everything but the kitchen sink, understanding these luggage policies will help ensure a smoother, hassle-free journey.
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