Hand luggage policies can cause a unexpected number of problems for travellers destined for overseas holidays. Packing for the family can be stressful enough without getting to the airport and be faced with a charge to check-in bags deemed as not fitting the airline’s cabin bag policy. With October half-term right around the corner, holidaymakers should make sure they are prepared by reviewing the hand luggage policies in place with their chosen airline. Whether its bag limits of size restrictions, there are a number of things to look out for before flying.
Popular airlines jetting off to far-flung destinations this October half term include Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, Wizz Air and Virgin Atlantic.
However, one rule that is imposed by an airline may not apply to another.
The best way to know which airline provides the best hand luggage policy to meet your needs is to read up on the rules.
Budget airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet often have tighter cabin bag restrictions, compared with other carriers such as British Airways.
When it comes to low-cost airlines, Jet2 are actually the airline who come out on top for being the most lenient with hand luggage.
The British air carrier not only offers one of the more forgiving size restrictions out of the UK’s four leading airlines, it also allows passengers an additional piece of luggage for free.
Compared with easyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air, the airline is said to be the one to give passengers “the most for their money”.
Their policy dictates one bag, totalling 10kg and a maximum size of 56x45x25cm, plus an additional personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag.
Passengers will also be allowed to check-in their hand luggage for free if their flight happens to be full.
For passengers who are carrying small but heavy items, easyJet may be the best bet.
The orange-tipped airline gives passengers an impressive open weight limit.
It does impose size restrictions, though, outlining measurements of 56x45x25.
WizzAir is the next best budget airline, welcoming fliers to bring onboard a small 10kg bag (40x30x20cm) which should be placed under the seat in front. However, it should be noted that overhead storage comes at a cost.
Out of the budget offering, it is, unfortunately, Ryanair who snub passengers the most.
According to the Irish airline’s website, cabin bags can span no more than 40x20x25cm, anything over that will cost you a fee.
Fees for additional cabin bags start at £6, though also allow passengers “priority passenger” status.
Those flying with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic will benefit from a substantially better luggage allowance.
Passengers with British Airways are entitled to bring one piece of hand luggage, as well as a smaller personal item.
While hand luggage must fit into a size restriction of 56cmx45cmx25cm, it can weigh up to 23kg.
Meanwhile, those jetting off with Richard Branson’s Virgin fleet can enjoy a bag weighing 10kg (23x36x56cm) when flying economy, or dimensions of 9cmx14cmx22cm in premium economy, plus an additional handbag or rucksack.
For those unsure of how to fit their belongings into the specified restrictions for their chosen airline, one expert has some advice.
Kai Feller is the co-founder of online local services marketplace Bark.com which launched a professional holiday packing service this summer.
Feller’s top tip for packing hand luggage is to go for a backpack as your baggage of choice.
“I always pack light whenever I travel – it can be a real pain to lug a heavy suitcase around, especially when you’re in a hurry,” he told Express.co.uk.
“If you’re looking to travel light and avoid baggage fees pack a capsule wardrobe into your carry on.
“Choose a limited collection of colours and styles that work together for any situation and layer your outfits.”