DUBLIN — As icy winter weather grips Ireland, many are planning a well-deserved getaway. With living costs climbing, travellers are seeking practical ways to save, and smart packing has become one of the simplest solutions.
For 2026, Ryanair and Aer Lingus have both introduced changes to their hand luggage policies, making it essential for passengers to understand what they can bring onboard.
Ryanair now allows a single small bag under the seat for free, while Aer Lingus permits a 10kg carry-on in addition to a personal item.
Arriving at the airport with luggage that is too heavy or oversized can result in unexpected charges, so passengers are urged to review the rules before travelling.
Dublin Airport Introduces Next-Generation Security Scanners
Dublin Airport has implemented next-generation screening technology, which relaxes previous liquid restrictions.
Passengers can now carry up to two litres of liquids and gels, and laptops, tablets, and electronics no longer need to be removed from bags.
Travellers returning from European or UK airports should confirm local regulations, as not all facilities have upgraded their scanners.
Ryanair: One Free Personal Bag, Updated Size Limits
All Ryanair passengers can bring one small personal bag free of charge, which must fit under the seat in front of them. The allowed dimensions for 2026 are 40 x 30 x 20 cm, slightly larger than the previous 40 x 20 x 25 cm limit.
Oversized items may be refused at the boarding gate or, where possible, checked into the hold for a €70 fee (plus VAT on domestic flights).
Ryanair: Prohibited Items DUBLIN — With winter temperatures keeping Ireland chilly, many are already planning a well-earned holiday.
Rising living costs mean travellers are seeking ways to reduce expenses, and one of the simplest methods is smart packing
Ryanair enforces strict rules regarding what may be carried in both cabin and checked baggage. Items banned include:
Weapons and projectile devices:
- All firearms, toy guns, replicas, and parts
- Bows, crossbows, arrows, harpoon guns, slingshots
- Stun guns, tasers, and animal killers
Explosives and dangerous substances:
- Ammunition, detonators, mines, grenades, fireworks, dynamite
- Flammable liquids and solids, strong chemicals, toxic or infectious materials
- Lithium-ion vehicles like hoverboards, smart bags with batteries, and high-proof alcohol
Sharp and heavy objects:
- Axes, knives over 6cm, ice axes, machetes, swords
- Work tools capable of injury, including drills, saws, crowbars, hammers
- Blunt instruments like baseball bats, clubs, hockey sticks, and paddles
Passengers are also warned against carrying fragile, perishable, or otherwise unsafe items, as well as hunting trophies.
Aer Lingus: Two Bag Options for European Flights
Aer Lingus passengers may bring a 10kg carry-on plus one personal item, which includes a handbag, laptop bag, or baby changing bag. The personal item size has increased to 40 x 30 x 20 cm, up from the previous 25 x 33 x 20 cm.
Those without pre-booked carry-on allowance can check their bag at Dublin, Shannon, or London airports for free. Bringing an unbooked 10kg bag to the gate will incur a €35 fee to place it in the hold.
Aer Lingus: Restricted and Prohibited Items
Aer Lingus bans the following:
Weapons and projectiles:
- Firearms, toy guns, replicas, compressed air guns
- Signal flare pistols, bows, crossbows, harpoon guns
Sharp objects:
- Axes, hatchets, ice picks, knives over 6cm, scissors over 6cm
- Martial arts equipment, swords, sabres
Stunning devices and chemicals:
- Stun guns, tasers, animal stunners
- Pepper sprays, tear gas, acid sprays
Tools and blunt objects:
- Drills, blowtorches, saws, bolt guns
- Baseball bats, clubs, hockey sticks, paddles, darts
Explosives and incendiaries:
- Ammunition, mines, fireworks, dynamite, gunpowder
Additional restrictions cover perishable goods, smart luggage with lithium batteries, electric bicycles and scooters, and Segways or hoverboards. Batteries must be safely stored, and passengers travelling to the U.S. should note special rules for powders exceeding 350ml.
Travel Tips for 2026
Passengers are advised to double-check airline policies and pack carefully to avoid unexpected charges or confiscation of banned items. Both Ryanair and Aer Lingus have updated rules reflecting modern safety standards and operational efficiency, while Dublin Airport’s new scanners simplify security screening.
Understanding baggage allowances, prohibited items, and airport security requirements is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience in 2026.
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