Cabin baggage: these European airlines will charge for trolleys in 2025, which will remain free of charge.

Did you think your carry-on bag was included in the price of your plane ticket? Some airlines now charge for it, depending on the circumstances and conditions. Before you leave, here’s what’s new and what you need to know to avoid stress.

Cabin baggage: what’s still free and what’s not

In most cases, a small personal bag is still free for everyone. It must fit under the seat, without getting in the way of your legs or the crew. On the other hand, a suitcase for the luggage compartment may become a chargeable item on short journeys.

Fees vary according to the airline, the period and the exact time of payment. Also, a purchase at the boarding counter is often more expensive than on the Internet. Advertisements mention gate fees for oversized or heavy luggage.

Some airline policies allow 1 piece of personal luggage only, with no other bags accepted free of charge. As a result, published dimensions are strict, and checked against the gauge in front of the doors. What’s more, passengers are asked to pay if their suitcase exceeds even one centimeter.

“Free cabin baggage is no longer a given, it’s becoming an option to be managed.

Why the pricing shift now?

Ticket margins remain under pressure after years of fluctuating demand. As a result, carriers are focusing on ancillary revenues that complement flight revenues. Airlines present these fees as a service choice for flexible customers.

Yet travelers perceive an opaque increase that arrives at the last moment of the journey. Also, reading the conditions takes time, attention and sometimes real expertise. As a result, many pay without realizing it, thinking they’re following the safest rule.

• Measure and test your bag in a store jig before departure.
• Print out or keep on your phone the allowance indicated on the reservation.
• Pay any supplements online, well in advance of the airport, to limit the bill.
• Choose soft bags that compress into the boarding gauge.
• Divide the weight between your personal bag and your suitcase to stay below the thresholds.

How to avoid unpleasant surprises

Prepare your luggage as if it had to fit the strictest possible gauge. For example, choose a soft bag that compresses and conforms to the metal structure. What’s more, slip heavy items into your personal item, which is more discreet at check-in.

Check the allocation in your reservation and on the receipt sent after ticket payment. Also, take a screenshot of key mentions, such as the cabin allowance icon. Airlines often display the allocation in the final e-mail, just before check-in.

If you need to pay extra, pay online to keep your total budget under control. Buying at the gate, on the other hand, usually costs more, as it includes administrative fees. Airlines modulate these prices according to demand, destination and estimated load factor.

What the European framework says

Since 2014, a European ruling has distinguished two cases and reiterated clear principles. Thus, small baggage with reasonable requirements must be accepted in the cabin, without unjustified surcharges. On the other hand, airlines charge for checked baggage options as additional services.

Consumer associations have appealed to several authorities for clearer information. As a result, the transparency of charges is under scrutiny, from the search engine to the boarding pass. As a result, carriers are adjusting their information pages to better specify frequent exclusions.

Practical advice before embarking

Arrive at the gate with time to spare, especially on busy and stressful morning flights. That way, you can avoid costly haste when the queue is already moving fast. Airlines then apply the rules without margin, because boarding must remain fluid.

Anticipate returns with souvenirs or gifts, often responsible for a few extra centimetres. Also, carry a lightweight travel scale to check your bag before the airport. What’s more, a collapsible tote bag can save the day if a purchase is added.

Compare offers beyond the ticket price alone, as costs vary widely. In short, add up seat, baggage and priority boarding to estimate the real cost. Carriers who clearly display their fees save time when making a purchase.

• Airlines