Maximum measurements for a carry-on bag are set by each airline, with a generally similar standard across the industry and only minor differences. Knowing these rules helps travelers avoid surprises at check-in and on the plane. Before travel, it’s wise to review the airline’s baggage policy to stay within allowances and dodge extra fees or delays at the airport.
Free hand luggage allowances vary by airline, but the differences tend to be small. Below is a concise guide to the typical cabin baggage limits from the five most commonly used airlines in the region.
Free hand luggage: the standard sizes used by major airlines
As noted earlier, airlines each publish their own limits for carry-on bags. The deviations are usually minor. The following sections outline the typical measurements allowed for cabin luggage for the most frequently chosen carriers in the region.
Ryanair: maximum dimensions for hand luggage
Ryanair’s rules restrict standard cabin luggage to a compact size. The commonly accepted limit is 40 cm by 20 cm by 25 cm, which must fit under the front seat. For travelers who need to bring a larger bag, Ryanair offers an onboard option called Priority with two pieces of hand luggage. The provided dimensions for this option are 55 cm by 40 cm by 20 cm, with a maximum weight of 10 kg. This service carries an additional fee that can be paid at ticket purchase or online during check-in.
Iberia: maximum size for cabin luggage without extra charges
Iberia’s policy for flights operated by Iberia allows a single piece of cabin luggage within these dimensions: 56 cm in height, 40 cm in width, and 25 cm in depth, including handles, pockets and wheels. The weight must not exceed 10 kilograms. Alongside the main bag, a personal item placed under the seat is also permitted, with maximum dimensions of 40 cm by 30 cm by 15 cm. It’s important to note that policies can change based on ticket class and destination, so travelers should consult Iberia’s website or contact the airline directly for the latest information before traveling.
You can also carry a personal item under the seat that must stay within 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
Vueling: free hand luggage allowances
Vueling allows one piece of hand luggage to be carried in the cabin at no charge, with maximum dimensions of 40 cm by 20 cm by 30 cm. This bag must fit under the front seat. For some fare types such as TimeFlex or Premium, or for travelers with special assistance needs or babies, a cabin suitcase up to 55 cm by 40 cm by 20 cm may be accommodated, depending on the specific conditions of travel.
EasyJet: complimentary hand luggage
On EasyJet flights, each passenger may bring one cabin bag, up to 45 cm by 36 cm by 20 cm, including handles and wheels, and it should be stowed under the front seat. The airline notes that the bag can weigh up to 15 kg, though some travelers might find it heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.
The bag should fit in the overhead bin when fully loaded, ensuring a smooth boarding process.
Air Europa: cabin luggage limits
Air Europa’s standard allowance for a carry-on bag is typically up to 55 cm high, 35 cm wide, and 25 cm deep, including handles, pockets and wheels, with a maximum weight of 10 kilograms for economy class. In Business, two pieces may be carried, each up to 14 kg. In addition to the carry-on, a personal item such as a purse or small laptop bag can be brought on board, provided it fits under the seat and its dimensions are within 40 cm by 30 cm by 15 cm. A personal item should be placed under the front seat except during emergency procedures, when it may be required to be stowed in the overhead bin.
Air Europa also offers space for a personal accessory in addition to hand luggage, which can be a purse, backpack or briefcase, subject to size constraints for under-seat placement.
These guidelines can vary with ticket class, destination, and special circumstances, so travelers should verify current policies on the airline’s site before departure or by contacting customer service for the most accurate information.