EU Bans Hand-Luggage Fees: A New Era for Air Travel Passengers
In a landmark decision in July 2025, the European Union voted to eliminate extra fees for hand luggage, signaling a major shift in air travel. Under the new regulation, passengers are allowed to bring one cabin bag weighing up to 7 kg, plus one personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag, without paying additional charges.
For years, passengers flying with budget airlines have faced hidden costs for cabin baggage, often leading to confusion and frustration. Fees for hand luggage could add anywhere from €10 to €50 to a ticket, depending on the airline and route, making travel planning unpredictable. The EU’s new rules aim to simplify the pricing model, providing travelers with greater transparency and predictability, while eliminating the unpleasant surprise of extra fees at the gate.
Airlines, however, have expressed mixed reactions. Some of Europe’s largest carriers, including Ryanair, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France, have raised concerns that removing hand-luggage fees may force them to increase base fares to compensate for lost revenue. These airlines argue that many travelers prefer lower base fares with the option to pay for extras, rather than inclusive pricing that may not suit all passengers’ needs. Budget carriers in particular worry that standardizing cabin baggage allowances could reduce the flexibility that currently allows them to generate additional income.
From a passenger perspective, however, the regulation is expected to have overwhelmingly positive effects. With hand-luggage fees eliminated, travelers can avoid the stress of weighing and repacking items at check-in or paying last-minute fees at the gate. Standardized baggage policies also mean travelers can plan their trips more easily, knowing that their cabin luggage will be accepted across all EU airlines. For families, business travelers, and frequent flyers, this translates to a more predictable and cost-effective journey.
The regulation also brings European air travel more in line with consumer-friendly practices observed in other parts of the world. Airlines in North America and parts of Asia have already experimented with inclusive cabin luggage allowances, though fees for checked baggage remain common. The EU’s decision sets a precedent, encouraging transparency and fairness in ticket pricing, while highlighting the importance of passenger rights in a competitive and growing aviation market.
Airlines are adjusting policies to comply with the new law. Some carriers have already begun updating their terms and conditions, while others may face operational and logistical challenges in implementing standardized baggage rules. Nevertheless, the regulation is likely to encourage innovation, with airlines exploring new ways to maintain revenue through ancillary services, such as priority boarding, in-flight meals, and seat selection, rather than relying solely on baggage fees.
For travelers, the benefits extend beyond financial savings. Eliminating hand-luggage fees simplifies the travel experience, reduces congestion during boarding, and enhances overall convenience. Passengers no longer need to worry about underestimating baggage restrictions, and airport staff can focus on smoother operations instead of managing disputes over carry-on fees. Ultimately, the EU’s regulation represents a broader commitment to improving the quality of air travel and ensuring that passengers receive clear, fair, and consistent treatment.
The decision marks a turning point for European aviation, demonstrating that regulatory action can improve transparency and fairness while responding to passenger needs. By removing hand-luggage fees, the EU is not only making air travel more accessible and enjoyable but also encouraging airlines to adopt innovative approaches to customer service and pricing. Travelers across Europe can look forward to a simpler, more predictable, and passenger-friendly flying experience, setting a new standard that could influence policies worldwide.
