Which airline has the strictest carry-on rules?

Navigating the Carry-On Maze: Which European Airline Has the Strictest Rules in 2024?

European air travel in 2024 presents a new challenge for passengers: increasingly strict carry-on baggage rules. While budget airlines have long been known for their tight restrictions, the trend is spreading, impacting even established legacy carriers. So, which airline truly reigns supreme in the realm of restrictive carry-on policies? Pinpointing one single “strictest” airline is difficult, as the specifics often depend on the route and fare type, but certain carriers consistently stand out for their rigorous enforcement.

Budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air remain frontrunners in the carry-on crackdown. Their limitations are well-publicized: small, precisely sized bags (often with exceptionally strict weight limits – sometimes as low as 7kg) are the norm, with any deviation resulting in hefty fees. These fees can easily eclipse the cost of checking a bag, incentivizing strict adherence to their regulations. Passengers on these airlines must meticulously measure and weigh their carry-on luggage before departure, or risk significant financial penalties at the gate.

However, the tightening isn’t confined to budget carriers. Traditional European airlines are also adjusting their policies. Airlines like Finnair and SAS Scandinavian Airlines, while offering a generally more accommodating experience than the budget operators, have nevertheless implemented stricter carry-on size and weight limitations compared to previous years and to some of their international counterparts. While their allowances might be slightly more generous than Ryanair’s, the increased enforcement and potentially higher fees for oversized or overweight bags still make meticulous pre-flight preparation essential.

The key takeaway is that “strictest” is relative. While Ryanair and Wizz Air may have the smallest permitted dimensions and most rigorously enforced rules, other carriers are increasingly catching up, leading to a generally more restrictive landscape across the board. The most prudent approach for any European traveler in 2024 is to:

• Check the specific carry-on rules for your chosen airline and specific route well in advance of your flight. Rules can vary based on factors like the aircraft type and destination.
• Measure your bag carefully. Don’t rely on estimations; use a measuring tape and ensure it meets the airline’s exact specifications.
• Weigh your bag. Even if seemingly lightweight, exceeding weight limits will result in fees.
• Be prepared to pay extra. If you inadvertently exceed the limits, be ready for potentially substantial charges.

The days of casually bringing a large carry-on bag onto a European flight are, for many airlines, a thing of the past. Proactive planning and meticulous preparation are now key components of a smooth and cost-effective European air travel experience.