**Travellers to Spain, France, Greece and Beyond May Soon See New EU Baggage Rules**
Britons heading to popular European destinations such as Spain, France, Portugal, Greece and Italy could soon benefit from a new, unified approach to carry-on bag regulations, following recent proposals from the European Union. The plan, which is currently under discussion, seeks to eliminate confusion and unexpected costs that have frustrated flyers for years.
Until now, rules regarding the size and cost of cabin baggage have varied widely between airlines. Many travellers have encountered inconsistent policies, with some carriers allowing slightly larger bags for free, while others have imposed steep fees at the airport, often catching passengers off guard. This lack of standardisation has long been a source of irritation, particularly for those flying with low-cost airlines.
Under new regulations proposed by EU transport ministers, all EU-based airlines would be required to allow every passenger to bring one personal item of hand luggage free of charge. The bag must fit under the seat in front, with maximum recommended dimensions set at 40cm x 30cm x 15cm, inclusive of wheels and handles. This move aims to bring uniformity and predictability to an aspect of travel that has seen escalating costs and uncertainty.
Importantly, these changes would not be limited to flights within the European Union. Flights that either begin or end in non-EU countries, such as the United Kingdom, but are operated by EU-registered airlines, would also fall under the new rules. Consequently, UK holidaymakers flying to Europe on airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, or Wizz Air should expect to benefit if the proposal becomes law.
Industry insiders note that the changes could have far-reaching consequences for travellers. At present, for instance, Ryanair permits a free cabin bag up to 40cm x 20cm x 25cm, while easyJet offers slightly more generous dimensions of 45cm x 36cm x 20cm. The proposed regulation would settle on a common size that airlines must respect, reducing surprises at boarding gates and, crucially, doing away with the current practice of charging extra for under-seat bags.
The legal background to this issue dates back over a decade. An EU court had previously ruled that ‘reasonable’ cabin bags should not incur additional charges. However, that judgment fell short of specifying what could be deemed ‘reasonable’, leaving significant leeway for airlines to interpret the rule as they saw fit. This ambiguity has been repeatedly called into question by consumer groups and holidaymakers alike.
Fines have already been levied in some countries for what authorities have called ‘abusive’ practices. Last year, Spain’s Consumer Rights Ministry imposed £150 million in penalties on five airlines accused of unjustifiably charging for essential carry-on baggage. The Spanish government has since stated its intention to outright ban such fees in the future.
Airlines, however, have expressed concerns that a mandatory rule could have unintended effects. Ryanair, one of Europe’s best-known budget carriers, told the BBC that any move to make additional carry-on bags a free right for every customer might lead to higher overall ticket prices and decreased flexibility for passengers. Industry body Airlines for Europe echoed this sentiment, arguing that the present system allows customers to tailor services to their needs and budget.
Nonetheless, travel consumer advocates have welcomed the proposal. Jane Hawkes, a frequent commentator on consumer rights, suggested that a singular, straightforward rule would greatly benefit passengers, making travel simpler and less stressful regardless of which airline they choose. The next step will come when the proposal goes to the European Parliament for debate and potential adoption as EU law—a process that may see further refinement of the rules.
With summer holidays looming, the issue of baggage fees and fairness remains high on the agenda for millions. While the proposed changes represent a significant step towards greater transparency and protection for consumers, airlines and regulators alike are preparing for continued debate on the balance between passenger rights and commercial flexibility. Travellers are advised to watch closely for updates, as any new regulation could reshape their airport routines in the months to come.