What You Need to Know About Adding Bags to Ryanair
When booking flights with Ryanair, understanding baggage allowances and how to add extra items is crucial for a smooth travel experience. The process for adding bags, whether checked luggage or larger cabin bags, primarily occurs before you arrive at the airport. This ensures you benefit from the most economical pricing and avoids potentially higher fees at the departure gate. This article clarifies the typical procedures, considerations, and options available when you need to increase your baggage allowance with Ryanair.
- Add bags online before flight check-in for best prices.
- Different bag types have distinct size and weight limits.
- Fees vary based on when and how you add baggage.
- Check your booking for current allowances and options.
- Allowances can be added via 'My Bookings' on the Ryanair website or app.
The airline operates a strict policy regarding baggage, distinguishing between personal items, cabin bags, and checked luggage. Each category comes with specific dimensions and weight restrictions, and exceeding these can incur significant charges. Therefore, planning your baggage needs in advance and adding any necessary items during or after your initial booking is a fundamental step for any traveller flying with Ryanair.
This approach not only helps manage your budget but also streamlines the process at the airport, reducing stress and potential delays. By familiarising yourself with Ryanair's baggage policies and the methods for adding more luggage, you can ensure your journey is as comfortable and cost-effective as possible.
Understanding Ryanair's Baggage Structure
Ryanair's baggage policy is designed to offer flexibility while managing capacity and aircraft weight. Travellers typically have three main categories of baggage to consider: a small personal item, a standard cabin bag, and checked luggage. Each has a defined purpose and set of rules.
The Small Personal Item
Every passenger is permitted to bring one small personal item onboard, which must fit under the seat in front of you. This is generally a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. There are specific dimensions for this item, typically around 40cm x 20cm x 25cm (height x width x depth), and it must be stowed appropriately before take-off.
Cabin Luggage Options
Beyond the personal item, Ryanair offers different options for cabin luggage. Standard fares usually include a small cabin bag that must fit into the overhead locker, with dimensions typically around 55cm x 40cm x 20cm (height x width x depth), and a weight limit, often 10kg. Passengers who wish to bring a larger 10kg cabin bag or an additional item must purchase this option, usually referred to as 'Priority Boarding' which includes a larger cabin bag. Without this, a second, larger cabin bag will be tagged and placed in the hold, often incurring a fee.
It is vital to adhere to the specified dimensions and weight for your chosen cabin bag. The 10kg cabin bag size must be respected, as oversized items will be removed and placed in the aircraft hold.
Checked Luggage
For travellers with more substantial baggage needs, checked luggage is the solution. Ryanair allows passengers to purchase checked baggage up to a maximum of 20kg per item. You can add multiple checked bags to a single booking, subject to the airline's overall baggage limits per passenger. The standard checked luggage allowance is 10kg, but you can add larger allowances, typically up to 20kg, either during the booking process or retrospectively.
The dimensions for checked luggage are generally more generous, but it is always advisable to check the specific size restrictions on the Ryanair website to avoid any last-minute issues. The cost for checked luggage varies, and it is generally cheaper to add this online before you travel than at the airport.
Understanding these distinct baggage categories is the first step to correctly adding bags to your Ryanair booking.
Why Add More Bags in Advance?
The primary reason for adding bags to your Ryanair booking well in advance of your travel date centres on cost. Ryanair employs a dynamic pricing system for its ancillary services, including baggage. This means the price you pay for checked luggage or an additional cabin bag is significantly lower when purchased online during the booking process or through the 'My Bookings' section afterwards, compared to paying at the airport or during online check-in.
When you choose to add a suitcase or any extra luggage at the airport, especially at the check-in desk or the boarding gate, you will almost certainly face the highest possible fees. These charges are designed to deter passengers from leaving baggage additions to the last minute and to compensate the airline for the operational adjustments required.
Beyond financial savings, adding your luggage in advance offers peace of mind. You can confirm your baggage allowance, ensure your items will fit within the specified dimensions, and avoid the stress of potential disputes or unexpected charges at the airport. This proactive approach allows you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about baggage logistics.
Furthermore, adding bags online allows you more time to pack deliberately. You can assess your needs more accurately and make informed decisions about what to bring, rather than rushing to fit everything into a smaller allowance at the last minute. This often leads to a more organised and less frantic packing experience.
Confirming your baggage needs early prevents costly surprises and secures your allowance.
For instance, if you opt for a 10kg bag but later realise you require more space for souvenirs or specific equipment, adding an extra 20kg checked bag online might cost substantially less than paying the airport supplement for a similar allowance. The difference in price can sometimes be substantial enough to cover a significant portion of another flight or a memorable experience at your destination.
Ryanair's policy on adding luggage is clear: the earlier, the cheaper. This applies to both checked bags and the option for a larger cabin bag if you didn't select priority boarding initially.
How to Add Bags to Your Ryanair Booking
Adding extra baggage to an existing Ryanair booking is a straightforward process that can be accomplished online through the airline's website or mobile app. The key is to access your booking using your booking reference number and the lead passenger's surname.
Navigate to the 'My Bookings' section on the Ryanair website or open the Ryanair app. Once logged in or having entered your details, you will see your flight reservation. Within your booking management area, there will be an option to 'Add bags' or 'Change flight/bags'. Select the option related to managing your baggage allowance.
Selecting Your Baggage Options
You will be presented with the available baggage options for your specific flight. This typically includes the standard 10kg checked bag and the larger 20kg checked bag. If you have not already purchased priority boarding, you may also be offered the option to add this, which includes a larger cabin bag (up to 10kg, specific dimensions apply) and priority boarding access.
Choose the type and quantity of bags you wish to add. For example, if you need to add a suitcase, you would select the appropriate checked bag option. You can often add multiple checked bags, up to the airline's limit per passenger, and each will have an associated fee. Pay close attention to the dimensions and weight limits for each type of bag to ensure compliance.
Making the Payment
After selecting your desired baggage options, you will proceed to a payment screen. The total cost for the added bags will be displayed. You will need to enter your payment details to complete the transaction. Once the payment is successfully processed, your booking will be updated to reflect the added baggage. You should receive a confirmation email detailing the changes to your booking, including the added baggage allowance.
Always ensure you have your booking reference number to hand when managing your booking online.
It is recommended to complete this process at least a few hours before the online check-in window closes, or ideally, well in advance of your flight. While Ryanair allows bag additions up to a certain point before departure, prices may increase closer to the flight date. The cut-off time for adding bags online is typically around 2 hours before the scheduled departure time, but it is best to check the specific terms on their website as this can vary.
If you encounter any issues or are unsure about the process, Ryanair's customer service channels are available, though response times can vary. It is generally more efficient to manage your booking online if possible.
Adding a Ryanair Backpack
When considering a Ryanair backpack, it's essential to distinguish its purpose. A small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you is usually included as your complimentary personal item. If you wish to bring a larger backpack that meets the dimensions of a standard cabin bag (typically 55cm x 40cm x 20cm and up to 10kg), you must purchase 'Priority Boarding'. Without priority, a larger backpack will be treated as checked luggage and must be added as such, or it will be tagged and placed in the hold at the gate for a fee.
Therefore, when planning to travel with a backpack, assess its size against Ryanair's allowances. If it's a small one, it likely fits your personal item allowance. If it's larger and you want it in the cabin with you, you need to ensure you have paid for priority boarding. If it's a substantial travel backpack you intend to check, add a checked bag allowance online.
Understanding Baggage Fees and Pricing
The cost of adding bags to a Ryanair flight is a key consideration for travellers. Ryanair's fee structure for baggage is designed to incentivise early booking and online purchases. This means the price you encounter can vary significantly depending on when and where you make the addition.
Generally, the cheapest way to add checked luggage is during the initial flight booking process. If you decide later to add more bags, doing so via the 'My Bookings' section on the Ryanair website or app, well before your flight's check-in deadline, will secure a lower price than airport fees. The airline offers different weight allowances for checked bags, most commonly a 10kg checked bag and a 20kg checked bag. The 20kg option is typically more expensive per item but offers greater capacity.
Prices for adding a 10kg or 20kg checked bag online can vary. While specific figures are subject to change and depend on the route and demand, travellers can expect these fees to be considerably lower than airport charges. For example, a 10kg checked bag added online might be priced differently from a 20kg checked bag, and both will be cheaper than paying at the airport. These online prices can fluctuate, so checking your booking page for the most current rates is advisable.
The price for added bags is dynamic; book online early for the lowest rates.
When you add a bag at the airport, whether at the check-in desk or the boarding gate, the fees are substantially higher. This includes fees for checked bags and for any non-priority passengers bringing a second, larger cabin bag (above the small personal item allowance) that needs to be tagged and put in the hold. These 'at airport' fees are a significant expense and are a primary reason why travellers are strongly advised to manage their baggage requirements online in advance.
It's also important to note that Ryanair has specific rules for cabin baggage. While a small personal item is free, a larger cabin bag (up to 10kg) requires the purchase of 'Priority Boarding'. If you do not have priority boarding and bring a bag that exceeds the personal item dimensions, it will be placed in the hold and a fee will apply, which is often comparable to or higher than the fee for a checked bag.
Always refer to the 'Fees' or 'Baggage' section of the Ryanair website for the most up-to-date pricing information. These pages are regularly updated to reflect current charges.
When to Add Bags: Timing is Key
The timing of adding bags to your Ryanair flight booking is a critical factor influencing both cost and convenience. Ryanair's pricing structure is tiered, meaning the earlier you confirm your need for additional baggage, the less you will typically pay.
Adding bags online at least 24 hours before scheduled departure is generally recommended.
The most economical time to add checked luggage or a larger cabin bag allowance is during the initial flight booking process. If you decide to add baggage after completing your initial booking, the next best window is as soon as possible thereafter, via the 'My Bookings' management portal on the Ryanair website or app. This allows you to secure rates that are significantly lower than those charged at the airport.
Ryanair typically allows passengers to add or change baggage up to two hours before the scheduled departure time. However, it is crucial to understand that the prices displayed online can increase as the departure date approaches. Therefore, even if the system allows additions until two hours prior, waiting until the last minute is ill-advised if you wish to minimise costs.
Consider the following timeline:
- During initial booking: Lowest prices available.
- After booking, well before check-in: Prices are moderate, and you have ample time to adjust if needed. This is the ideal time to add Ryanair luggage if you missed it initially.
- Online check-in period (up to 2 hours before departure): Prices may have increased compared to earlier online additions.
- At the airport (check-in desk or boarding gate): Highest fees apply for checked bags and for non-priority passengers with bags exceeding personal item dimensions that need to be put in the hold.
If your travel plans are uncertain, it might be tempting to wait. However, the substantial price difference between online and airport fees makes early online addition a prudent financial decision. Even if your plans are tentative, adding a standard checked bag allowance online and then potentially changing the flight (which incurs its own fees) might still be cheaper than paying airport prices for baggage.
For those travelling with just a small personal item and no other carry-on, adding bags is not necessary unless your packing needs exceed the permitted dimensions or weight. Always verify the current dimensions and weight limits for both personal items and cabin bags on the Ryanair website.
Cabin Bag vs. Checked Luggage: Making the Right Choice
Deciding between a cabin bag and checked luggage for your Ryanair flight involves weighing convenience, cost, and the nature of your travel. Ryanair's policies are quite distinct for each, and understanding these differences is key to adding the right type of bag for your needs.
A cabin bag, when purchased with 'Priority Boarding', offers the advantage of keeping your belongings with you in the aircraft cabin. This typically includes a larger bag, often up to 10kg, with dimensions around 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. The benefit is immediate access to your items during the flight and faster disembarkation, as you don't need to wait at baggage reclaim. However, cabin baggage limits are strict, and if your bag exceeds the specified dimensions or weight without priority boarding, it will be tagged and placed in the hold, often incurring a fee.
Checked luggage, on the other hand, is stowed in the aircraft's hold and collected from the baggage carousel upon arrival. Ryanair offers checked baggage allowances typically up to 20kg. This option is ideal for longer trips, travellers carrying bulky items, or those who simply prefer not to travel light. Adding a 20kg checked bag online is generally more cost-effective than paying excess baggage fees at the airport. The main drawback is the time spent waiting at baggage reclaim at your destination and the risk of luggage delays or loss, though this is rare.
When deciding, consider the length of your trip. For short city breaks or weekend getaways, a well-packed cabin bag might suffice. For longer holidays, or if you are carrying items that are prohibited in the cabin (e.g., certain liquids over 100ml, sharp objects), checked luggage is usually necessary. The cost is also a significant factor; compare the price of adding a 10kg cabin bag (via Priority) versus a 20kg checked bag online. Sometimes, the difference is minimal, making the larger checked allowance more appealing for bulkier items.
The choice between cabin and checked luggage depends on trip duration, item type, and cost.
If you have a small backpack that fits under the seat, this is your free personal item. If you need a larger carry-on, you must pay for priority boarding. If you need to add a suitcase or a significant amount of items, a checked bag is the way to go. Ensure you check the most current dimensions and weight limits on the Ryanair website before making your decision, as these can be updated.
It’s also worth noting that Ryanair's 10kg cabin bag size is specific. Ensure your chosen bag, whether it's a small suitcase or a large backpack, complies with these dimensions if you intend to carry it on. Failure to do so, without priority boarding, will result in it being checked into the hold.
What if I Need to Add More Than One Bag?
Ryanair allows passengers to add multiple pieces of baggage to their booking, provided they adhere to the airline's overall allowances and pay the applicable fees for each item. This flexibility is important for travellers with extensive packing needs.
When you are managing your booking online, you will have the option to select the number of checked bags you wish to add. Typically, you can add one or more 10kg or 20kg checked bags per passenger. For example, if you are travelling for an extended period or with family members, you might need to add two or three checked bags across your booking.
Each added bag incurs a separate fee, calculated at the time of booking or modification.
The process for adding multiple bags is the same as adding a single one: log into 'My Bookings', select your flight, and navigate to the baggage options. You will be able to specify the quantity of bags you require. The system will then calculate the total cost for all the added baggage allowances.
It is important to be aware of the maximum number of bags allowed per passenger. While Ryanair permits multiple checked bags, there is usually a limit on the total weight and number of items that can be checked in for one individual. Always consult the Ryanair website for the current limits on checked baggage per person. Exceeding these limits can result in additional charges or refusal to carry the baggage.
For travellers who need to bring sports equipment or oversized items, these often fall under special baggage categories and may have different pricing and size/weight restrictions. Such items typically need to be declared and paid for in advance, often through specific sections of the Ryanair website or by contacting customer service.
If you are travelling as a group or family, ensure that you distribute the baggage allowance logically among passengers to avoid individual bags exceeding weight limits, which can lead to extra fees. For instance, if two people are travelling with a total of 40kg of luggage, it might be more cost-effective to add two 20kg checked bags rather than one 20kg and two 10kg bags, depending on the specific pricing at the time.
The earlier you add multiple bags, the more you stand to save. The pricing for each additional bag will be displayed clearly before you confirm your payment. Double-check your booking summary to ensure the correct number of bags and the total cost are accurately reflected.
Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Navigating Ryanair's baggage rules can sometimes feel complex, and several common pitfalls can lead to unexpected charges or inconvenience. Being aware of these potential issues is the first step towards avoiding them.
One of the most frequent errors is misjudging the dimensions or weight of cabin baggage. Ryanair is particularly strict with its cabin baggage policy. If you purchase 'Priority Boarding' expecting to bring a larger bag, ensure it strictly adheres to the specified dimensions (e.g., 55cm x 40cm x 20cm and up to 10kg). If it's even slightly over, it will likely be removed and placed in the hold, and you may incur a fee. For passengers without priority, only a small personal item is free; any additional bag must be paid for as checked luggage or priority cabin baggage.
Another common mistake is leaving baggage additions until the last minute. As highlighted previously, Ryanair's fees increase substantially the closer you get to departure, culminating in the highest prices at the airport. Waiting until check-in to add a suitcase can turn a modest expense into a significant one.
Always double-check your booking confirmation for the exact baggage allowance you have purchased.
Confusion over the 10kg cabin bag allowance versus checked luggage is also prevalent. A 10kg bag can sometimes be checked into the hold for free if you have priority, but if you do not have priority, it will be charged as a checked bag if it exceeds the small personal item size. If you plan to check a bag, ensure you are purchasing the correct allowance (e.g., 10kg or 20kg checked bag) and not confusing it with the cabin baggage option.
Overpacking is another pitfall. Passengers may assume they can exceed the weight limit slightly without issue. However, Ryanair enforces weight limits strictly. If your checked bag is overweight, you will be charged an excess baggage fee, which is typically high and applied per kilogram over the limit. It is always better to add an extra bag if you anticipate being slightly over the limit, rather than risking an overweight charge.
To avoid these issues:
- Use a tape measure and scales at home to verify your bag's dimensions and weight before heading to the airport.
- Add all necessary baggage online well in advance of your flight, preferably at least 24 hours before departure.
- Read the baggage policy on the Ryanair website carefully, paying attention to the differences between personal items, cabin bags (with and without priority), and checked bags.
- Ensure your booking confirmation accurately reflects the baggage you have paid for.
- If in doubt, contact Ryanair customer service or add a bit of extra allowance online just in case.
By being diligent and informed, you can navigate Ryanair's baggage system successfully and avoid costly surprises.
Next Steps: Managing Your Baggage
Once you have added bags to your Ryanair booking, or if you are satisfied with your current allowance, there are a few final steps to ensure everything runs smoothly on travel day. Proactive management of your baggage details can prevent last-minute stress.
First, always re-check your booking confirmation. After adding bags online, Ryanair sends a confirmation email. Review this carefully to ensure the correct number and type of bags have been added and that the associated fees are as expected. If there are any discrepancies, contact Ryanair customer support promptly. Your booking details on the website or app should also reflect these changes.
Confirm your final baggage allowance in 'My Bookings' before travelling.
Before you pack, familiarise yourself once more with the exact dimensions and weight limits for your purchased baggage. For cabin bags, this means checking the size against your luggage. For checked bags, ensure your packed items do not exceed the 10kg or 20kg limit. Using a luggage scale at home is a reliable way to avoid overweight charges.
When you arrive at the airport, proceed to the correct area based on your baggage. If you have checked luggage, you will need to drop this off at the Ryanair bag drop desk. If you have only cabin baggage and priority boarding, you can proceed directly to security. If you only have a small personal item, you also go through security. Any passenger without priority who arrives at security with a bag larger than their personal item will be directed to the bag drop desk, and a fee will apply.
Be prepared for the cabin baggage check. Ryanair staff may ask you to place your cabin bag into a sizer frame at the gate to verify its dimensions. If it does not fit, and you do not have priority boarding, it will be tagged and put into the hold. This is a common point where passengers can incur unexpected charges if their bag is too large.
If you have purchased a 10kg checked bag, it must be dropped off at the bag drop desk before you go through security. Remember that liquids, aerosols, and gels in checked luggage generally do not have the same 100ml restriction as in cabin baggage, but it's always wise to check specific country regulations regarding prohibited items in checked baggage.
By taking these final steps, you ensure that your baggage is correctly accounted for, packed appropriately, and handled according to Ryanair's procedures, setting you up for a seamless travel experience.