easyJet vs Ryanair Baggage: What Actually Matters in 2026
Data verified .
TL;DR
- easyJet free bag allowance is larger at 45x36x20 cm.
- Ryanair basic free allowance is tighter at 40x20x25 cm.
- Ryanair generally enforces more consistently than easyJet.
- Both airlines can apply high gate fees if your bag fails.
- Route-level enforcement should inform airline choice, not fare alone.
Side-by-side comparison
| Metric | easyJet | Ryanair |
|---|---|---|
| Free bag dimensions | 45x36x20 cm | 40x20x25 cm |
| Overhead access (base fare) | No | No |
| Typical gate fee range | GBP 48 approx | EUR 50 approx |
| Strictness score trend | Moderate-high | High-very high |
| STN check pressure | Moderate | High |
| LGW check pressure | Moderate | Moderate-high |
Why these policies differ
Both airlines target price-sensitive travellers, but they monetize baggage differently. easyJet's larger under-seat allowance reduces friction for passengers traveling with compact backpacks. Ryanair's smaller basic allowance creates a stronger upsell path to Priority. For a traveller, this means policy differences are commercial design choices, not generosity.
Enforcement differences at shared airports
At shared airports such as STN, LGW, and LTN, gate behaviour can diverge even when flights depart minutes apart. Ryanair operations at STN are associated with higher queue pressure and frequent sizer checks, while easyJet tends to show more mixed outcomes depending on route and load.
Total trip cost: fare plus baggage
A GBP 12 fare difference is often irrelevant when one missed baggage upgrade can add GBP 48 to GBP 50 at the gate. Include likely bag fee exposure in your model: compliance confidence, airport check profile, and flight load.
Frequently asked questions
- Which airline has the bigger free bag?
- easyJet offers the larger free under-seat allowance at 45x36x20 versus Ryanair 40x20x25.
- Is easyJet stricter than Ryanair?
- Generally no. Ryanair usually records higher strictness and check-rate pressure on similar routes.
- Can the same bag work for both airlines?
- Yes, if it fits Ryanair basic dimensions when fully packed.
- What are the gate fees if I am caught?
- Both airlines can charge high gate conversion fees, often multiple times online pre-purchase pricing.