EU Rules Mandate Inclusive Pricing for Cabin Bags by 2027
New European Union regulations will require airlines to display ticket prices including a cabin bag before the booking process begins, starting on 23 October 2027. This change aims to reduce hidden costs, though cheaper fares without checked trolleys will remain an option for passengers.
What happened
The European Union published the updated passenger rights regulation in its official journal on 2 October 2026, according to the Austrian motoring club ÖAMTC. The new rules will come into effect on 23 October 2027, at which point the current passenger rights framework will remain unchanged until that date. Under the new system, airlines must show the total price including a cabin bag at the start of the booking process. However, airlines are still permitted to offer lower fares that do not include a trolley.
Until the new rules apply, travelers must be vigilant about extra charges because every airline has its own specific rules for hand luggage. Eurowings allows a bag measuring 40 by 30 by 25 centimetres. In contrast, Ryanair and EasyJet only permit a height of 20 centimetres, although EasyJet allows a width of 36 centimetres. Many airlines measure bags closely during boarding to determine if they can travel for free.
Passengers may face additional fees for various services. Checking in at the airport instead of online can cost up to €55 with Ryanair, while Eurowings charges €20 for on-site check-in. Selecting an emergency-exit seat in Economy class on long-haul flights can add up to €50 to the fare. Some airports offer fast-lane security access for €10 to €20 per person. Lounge access prices vary between €30 and €70, depending on the specific airport.
What it means for travelers
Travelers will see more transparent pricing when booking flights after October 2027, as the cost of a cabin bag will be included in the initial price display. This change should reduce surprise fees at checkout, although those choosing cheaper base fares will still need to pay extra for a trolley. Before that date, passengers must carefully review individual airline policies regarding bag dimensions to avoid fees at the gate.
Key details
- New EU rules require displaying ticket prices including a cabin bag before booking begins from 23 October 2027.
- Cheaper fares without a trolley remain allowed under the new regulations.
- Eurowings allows bags measuring 40 by 30 by 25 centimetres.
- Ryanair and EasyJet allow only 20 centimetres in height, but EasyJet permits a width of 36 centimetres.
- Ryanair charges up to €55 for airport check-in, while Eurowings charges €20.
- Emergency-exit seats in Economy on long-haul flights can cost up to €50.
- Fast-lane security access at some airports costs €10 to €20 per person.
- Lounge access costs between €30 and €70, depending on the airport.
- The regulation was published in the official journal on 2 October 2026.
