A Ryanair passenger recently found herself paying a hefty €60 (£50) fee for carrying a 750ml water bottle attached to her backpack. The incident, which occurred on February 4, 2025, during a return flight from Dublin to London Stansted, has sparked debate over Ryanair’s baggage policies and their strict enforcement.

What Happened?

The passenger was stopped at the boarding gate and informed that her water bottle needed to fit inside her bag. However, when she placed it inside, her bag exceeded Ryanair’s strict baggage size allowance, resulting in a charge of €60. The situation has drawn attention to the airline’s rules and raised concerns about unexpected fees that travellers might face.

Understanding Ryanair’s Baggage Policy

Ryanair has a well-known reputation for enforcing stringent baggage regulations. According to their policy:

• Passengers with a Basic Fare ticket are allowed to bring one small personal bag with maximum dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm.
• Any additional items, including water bottles, must fit inside this bag.
• If the bag exceeds the permitted size, passengers are required to pay a gate baggage fee ranging from €20 to €60.

In this case, the passenger’s bag, with the bottle inside, surpassed the allowed dimensions, leading to the extra charge.

The Debate: Fair Rule or Excessive Charge?

This incident has sparked discussion among travellers and consumer rights advocates. While some argue that airlines have the right to enforce their policies, others believe that charging €60 for an item as small as a water bottle is excessive. Critics argue that such strict rules disproportionately impact budget-conscious travellers, turning what seems like an affordable flight into a costly experience.

How to Avoid Extra Fees When Flying Ryanair

To prevent unexpected charges, travellers flying with Ryanair should take the following precautions:

1. Check Baggage Dimensions: Ensure your bag complies with the 40 x 20 x 25 cm allowance for a Basic Fare ticket.
2. Pack Smartly: If carrying extra items like water bottles, make sure they fit inside your permitted bag without exceeding size limits.
3. Upgrade If Necessary: Consider purchasing Priority Boarding & 2 Cabin Bags, which allows an extra 10kg cabin bag measuring up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
4. Use a Collapsible Bottle: Opt for a foldable water bottle that takes up minimal space when empty.
5. Be Aware of Gate Checks: Staff strictly enforce baggage rules at the gate, so double-check compliance before boarding.

Conclusion

Ryanair’s approach to baggage enforcement is a reminder for budget airline passengers to be mindful of every item they carry. While the airline remains a cost-effective choice for many, travellers should remain vigilant to avoid surprise fees. Understanding the rules and preparing accordingly can help prevent unnecessary costs and ensure a smooth journey.

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