You'll be able to take free hand luggage on flights next year - here's what we know so far

From next year, travellers across the EU will be allowed to take hand luggage on their flight at no extra cost.

Under new rules laid out by the European Commission, airlines will have to make sure air fares include bringing a small case on board.

"To create price transparency, air fares including allowance for a piece of hand baggage shall be displayed by default before the start of any booking process to facilitate fare comparisons between airlines," the European Commission said.

The rule allows passengers to take carry-on luggage (40cm x 30cm x 15cm) with no extra fee, alongside the usual under-the-seat bag allowance.

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While this change could increase initial ticket prices, especially for budget airlines that currently charge extra for bags, carriers will still be allowed to offer reduced fares for travellers who choose to fly without a suitcase.

The new rules are due to come into effect in 2027 but an exact start date is yet to be confirmed.

You may be wondering if they will apply to UK carriers, given we are no longer in the EU.

There have been reports that Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is considering updating British law to implement them here.

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Consumer champion Which? explains that even if airlines are not strictly bound by the new rules, "the reality is that they will have to [follow them]".

"These rules apply to EU airlines, such as Ryanair, but also to airlines flying from the EU to the UK, including UK carriers such as easyJet.

"It would be impractical for UK carriers to apply one set of bag rules and charges on inbound flights from the EU, and outbound legs from the UK. It's likely that UK carriers will implement the same rules on flights to the EU."

Ryanair already offers a (40cm x 30cm x 20cm) personal carry-on bag free of charge as part of its basic fare, which is 33% bigger than the EU standard free carry-on bag.

EasyJet said its fare already includes a small cabin bag for free up to 40 x 36 x 20cm and nearly 40% of its customers choose this option.

We asked Wizz Air when it planned to implement the new rules, but we are waiting to hear back.

(c) Sky News 2026: You'll be able to take free hand luggage on flights next year - here's what we know so far