Ryanair Bags On Board Policy

So, there I was, standing in the Ryanair check-in queue, my trusty backpack stuffed to the brim, thinking I was being all clever by avoiding those pesky checked baggage fees. I mean, who needs a suitcase when you've got a bag that can double as a makeshift body pillow, right? Wrong. Dead wrong.

You see, I'd fallen victim to the great Ryanair baggage policy conundrum. I'd heard whispers of their strict rules, but I was convinced I could outsmart them. Spoiler alert: I couldn't. As I approached the desk, the check-in agent took one look at my backpack and said, with all the enthusiasm of a traffic warden handing out parking tickets, "That's not a small bag, sir. That's a big bag. And it's not going on board."

And that, my friends, is how I learned about Ryanair's on board baggage policy the hard way. But fear not, for I have returned, wiser and with a mission to enlighten you all about the ins and outs of Ryanair's baggage rules, so you don't have to learn the hard way like I did.

So, What's the Deal with Ryanair's Baggage Policy?

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty. Ryanair's baggage policy is a bit like a game of whack-a-mole. Just when you think you've got it figured out, they change the rules. But don't worry, I've got the latest intel straight from their website (yes, I've become that person).

First Things First: The Two Bag Types

Ryanair has two types of bags: small bags and checked bags. The small bag is the one that can go on board with you, and the checked bag is the one that goes in the hold. Simple, right? Well, hold onto your hats, because it's about to get a bit more complicated.

The small bag must not exceed 40x20x25cm (15.7x7.9x9.8in) and 10kg (22lbs) in weight. It's basically the size of a small handbag or a tiny backpack. Anything bigger, and you're looking at checked bag prices. And trust me, you don't want to go there. I've seen people trying to squeeze their oversized bags into the sizer at the gate, and it's not a pretty sight.

The checked bag, on the other hand, can be up to 20kg (44lbs) and must not exceed 81cm (32in) in total dimensions (length + width + height). But here's the kicker: if you want to bring a checked bag, you need to pay extra. And I mean extra. Like, 'I could have bought a whole new wardrobe for that' extra.

What Can You Bring On Board?

Now, you might be thinking, "But what if I want to bring more than just a small bag on board?" Well, Ryanair has thought of that too. You can bring an additional small bag on board, as long as it's not a laptop bag, handbag, or briefcase. This could be a small backpack, a camera bag, or even a small gift bag (because who doesn't love a surprise gift at 30,000 feet?).

But here's where it gets a bit tricky. The additional small bag must be placed under the seat in front of you. So, if you're planning on bringing a bag full of souvenirs from your last holiday, you might want to reconsider. Trust me, trying to fit a bag full of souvenirs under the seat is about as enjoyable as trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

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What About Musical Instruments?

Now, I know what you're thinking. "What if I'm a traveling musician? How am I supposed to bring my guitar on board?" Well, Ryanair has thought of that too. You can bring a musical instrument on board as long as it's small enough to fit in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you. But if it's too big, you'll have to pay checked bag prices. And let me tell you, trying to explain to the check-in agent that your guitar is a 'small bag' is an uphill battle.

What If You're Traveling with Kids?

Now, I know what you're thinking. "What if I'm traveling with kids? How am I supposed to bring all their stuff on board?" Well, Ryanair has thought of that too. Kids under 12 get their own small bag allowance, and they can also bring an additional small bag. But here's the catch: if the kid is under 2 and you're not buying a seat for them, they don't get their own bag allowance. So, you might want to rethink that 'free' flight for your toddler.

So, What's the Best Way to Pack?

Alright, so you've got the lowdown on Ryanair's baggage policy. But what's the best way to pack? Well, my advice is to pack light. Really light. Like, 'I could fit all my worldly possessions in this tiny bag' light. Because trust me, trying to squeeze all your stuff into a small bag is a lot easier than trying to squeeze all your stuff into a checked bag and pay the extra fees.

And if you're really struggling to pack light, just remember this: every kilogram you leave behind is one less kilogram you'll have to carry through the airport. And trust me, your back will thank you for it.

But What If I Still Have Questions?

Alright, so you've read this entire article, and you're still not sure about Ryanair's baggage policy. Well, here's what you do: you head on over to the Ryanair website, click on the 'Baggage' tab, and read the fine print. Because let's face it, the fine print is where all the good stuff is hidden.

And if you're still confused, you can always give Ryanair a call. Just be prepared for a long wait on hold. I mean, have you ever tried to call Ryanair? It's like trying to get through to the White House switchboard.

But hey, at least you'll have plenty of time to practice your packing skills while you're on hold.