FR · Ireland · Ultra low-cost

Ryanair Personal Item Size

Exact personal item rules for Ryanair, verified against the airline's own published policy on 2026-04-14.

Quick answer

Yes, a standard backpack, tote, or laptop bag fits as a personal item on Ryanair as long as it measures under 15.7 x 9.8 x 7.9" (40 x 25 x 20 cm) and fits fully under the seat in front of you.

On Basic Economy fares, the personal item may be the ONLY bag you are allowed to bring on board without paying extra, so size matters.

Personal Item

Max dimensions (in)
15.7 x 9.8 x 7.9"
Max dimensions (cm)
40 x 25 x 20 cm
Included
Yes, free on every fare
Basic economy
Often personal item only

Small bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. Included free on every fare, but Ryanair enforces the size limit hard with gate sizers. If it does not fit, you pay a gate fee.

Carry-On (for context)

Max dimensions (in)
21.6 x 15.7 x 7.9"
Max dimensions (cm)
55 x 40 x 20 cm
Fee
From $40
Full carry-on rules

Does your bag count?

Common bag types compared against the Ryanair personal item limit. Sizes are typical retail dimensions and vary by brand.

Bag type Typical size On Ryanair
Standard backpack
Everyday daypack, laptop backpack
 18 x 13 x 8" Too big
Tote bag
Canvas or leather tote
 15 x 14 x 5" Too big
Laptop bag
Messenger or slim briefcase
 16 x 12 x 4" Too big
Small duffel
Gym or weekender
 18 x 11 x 11" Too big
Purse
Handbag or crossbody
 12 x 10 x 5" Too big
Under-seat roller
Mini wheeled bag
 16 x 14 x 8" Too big

Frequently asked questions

What is the Ryanair personal item size limit?

Ryanair allows a personal item up to 15.7 x 9.8 x 7.9" (40 x 25 x 20 cm). Small bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. Included free on every fare, but Ryanair enforces the size limit hard with gate sizers. If it does not fit, you pay a gate fee.

Does a backpack count as a personal item on Ryanair?

Not always. A typical 18 x 13 x 8 inch backpack is larger than the Ryanair published personal item limit of 15.7 x 9.8 x 7.9", so it may be treated as a carry-on. Slimmer laptop backpacks often still fit. Measure yours before flying.

Does Ryanair weigh personal items?

Personal item weight is not published by Ryanair and is rarely enforced at the gate for US domestic flights. On international routes, especially with codeshare partners, agents may weigh bags, so keep your personal item reasonable in weight.

What if my personal item is too big for Ryanair?

If your bag exceeds 15.7 x 9.8 x 7.9", a gate agent can ask you to place it in the sizer. If it does not fit, you may need to pay a carry-on or checked bag fee, starting around $40 on Ryanair. On Basic Economy fares, an oversized personal item is the most common cause of surprise fees.

Can I bring a personal item plus a carry-on on Ryanair Basic Economy?

Often no. Ryanair restricts Basic Economy passengers to a personal item only on many routes, with full-size carry-ons either banned or charged as a paid add-on. Read the fare rules at booking before you pack.

Need the full Ryanair baggage policy?

Checked bag fees, overweight and oversize charges, special items, and basic economy rules for Ryanair, all in one place.

Full Ryanair baggage policy Ryanair carry-on rules Ryanair checked bag fees Generate a packing list

Flying Ryanair out of these airports?

Check terminal layouts, connection times, and layover tips for major Ryanair hubs and focus cities.

Compare other airlines

Last verified 2026-04-14 against the official Ryanair policy at https://www.ryanair.com/us/en/useful-info/help-centre/faq-overview/Bag-Essentials . Airlines change their rules without notice, so always confirm with your carrier before flying.