Variable and unclear rules
Contrary to popular belief, there is no uniform standard in Europe for cabin baggage dimensions. Each airline is free to set its own boarding conditions, as long as these are specified in the general terms and conditions of sale.
Here are a few examples to illustrate this diversity:
- Ryanair only allows one small personal bag free of charge (40 x 20 x 25 cm), with ‘standard’ cabin baggage (55 x 40 x 20 cm) only available with the ‘Priority’ option.
- easyJet offers one free backpack (45 x 36 x 20 cm), with standard cabin baggage subject to a fee depending on the package.
- Volotea, Vueling and Transavia have rules that are sometimes vague or changeable.
In practice, these disparities can result in significant additional charges, up to €50 on some flights for unanticipated cabin baggage. For uninformed travellers, this often results in a poor experience, or even conflict at the time of boarding.
The evolving European legal framework
European authorities have recently responded to these practices. A European Parliament resolution (2023), supported in particular by France, reiterates that standard cabin baggage is part of the right to transport, as defined in the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union.
The French DGAC (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has confirmed this principle, while specifying that it is up to airlines to define what they consider to be ‘standard’, a vagueness that still leaves room for interpretation.
Some national authorities, such as those in Spain and Italy, have taken regulatory or punitive action, but without harmonisation at European level, the effects remain limited.
A clearer policy in the United States
By comparison, although American airlines are not subject to federal regulations, they have adopted a common policy regarding cabin baggage: the vast majority allow one piece of baggage measuring 56 x 35 x 23 cm, including wheels and handles.
Cabin baggage is included free of charge in standard economy class tickets, with the exception of certain ‘Basic Economy’ packages, where only personal items are allowed. These conditions are generally clearly displayed at the time of booking.
This industry consensus ensures a more consistent and predictable experience for travellers, regardless of the carrier.
Towards European harmonisation?
In light of these findings, many voices are calling for the standardisation of rules in Europe, based on the model of the implicit North American agreement. Such harmonisation would allow for:
- Greater fare transparency for passengers
- A smoother and more consistent customer experience
- Fewer conflicts at the boarding gate
- Healthier competition between airlines
This harmonisation could be based on a clear and unique definition of standard cabin baggage, setting reference dimensions and weights, while respecting the commercial freedom of carriers to offer additional services (seats, priority boarding, checked baggage, etc.).
A question at the heart of the travel experience
Beyond the simple question of suitcase size, the debate surrounding cabin baggage raises an essential question for the entire tourism industry: what standards do we want to uphold to ensure a clear, fair and trustworthy travel experience?
In a context where price remains a major factor in attractiveness, the challenge is to find the right balance between commercial competitiveness and respect for passengers’ fundamental rights.
Watch: interview with Vanguelis Panayotis (MKG Consulting) on BFM TV On this topic, watch the interview with Vanguelis Panayotis, CEO of MKG Consulting, on BFM TV, where he clearly and knowledgeably explains these issues. Watch the video below (in French).
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