Travellers in the European Union may soon enjoy the right to bring hand luggage on flights free of charge, following a major vote by EU lawmakers in favour of new air passenger protections.
On June 24, the European Parliament backed a proposal that would guarantee passengers the ability to carry a small cabin bag weighing up to 7kg (15.4 lbs) onboard at no extra cost, even on low-cost airlines. The legislation would also allow for an additional under-seat personal item, with both items subject to size limits. If approved by at least 55% of EU member states, the new rules could take effect as early as July 2025 and would apply to all flights within, to, and from the EU.
Under the proposal, carry-on bags would be limited to a combined linear dimension of 100cm, while the personal item must not exceed 40x30x15cm. These changes mark a significant departure from current practices among budget carriers such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet, which often charge passengers for cabin baggage beyond minimal personal items.
“Today’s vote marks an important step toward fairer and more transparent travel,” said Matteo Ricci, Vice-Chair of the EU Committee on Transport and Tourism. “This proposal introduces concrete measures such as a clear definition of free hand luggage — a fundamental right to avoid unjustified extra costs.”
The move follows rising public frustration and regulatory scrutiny. In November 2024, Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs fined five budget airlines €179 million for what it described as “abusive practices” related to hand luggage charges. That ruling, combined with pressure from consumer advocates, laid the groundwork for the EU-wide initiative.
The hand luggage reform is part of a broader package aimed at strengthening traveller rights. Lawmakers also voted to ban seat selection fees for families with children under 12, and to require transparency in ticket pricing — including all service and intermediation fees at the point of sale.
Another provision seeks to improve compensation rules, expanding them to cover missed connections across different transport modes, such as shuttle buses or trains, when booked under a single itinerary.
However, the airline industry has voiced strong opposition. Airlines for Europe, the region’s largest industry group, warned the measure would eliminate consumer choice and lead to higher fares.
“Forcing a mandatory trolley bag strips passengers of that choice and obliges them to pay for services they may not want or need,” said Managing Director Ourania Georgoutsakou. “What’s next? Mandatory popcorn and drinks as part of your cinema ticket?”
While the proposals still face further negotiations and final approval, supporters believe they mark a decisive shift toward fairer and more passenger-friendly air travel across Europe.
