Hand luggage could be free for passengers going on holiday in a new EU rule - but what does this mean for Brits travelling to Europe, and will flight fares increase?13:06, 25 Jun 2026Many of us have been drawn to the prospect of a cheap flight to Europe, and sometimes that appealing £19.99 flight can even determine our next holiday destination. Yet, while the flight may be cheap, there can be additional costs, such as booking amendments, seat reservations, and, of course, luggage fees.‌In a bid to save some extra cash, travellers are often on the lookout for hacks, tips and tricks on how to avoid paying for a cabin bag on a budget airline, or how to really maximise space with the standard under-the-seat bag.‌However, in a major EU change under air passenger rights, a cabin bag could be free to take on board - meaning that the likes of Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet may need to amend their policies.‌What is the new travel rule?After almost a decade of negotiations, an agreement has been reached between the European Council and the European Parliament to allow passengers to carry free hand luggage on board. This is in addition to the one small personal bag that must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.It will mean that travellers can avoid unnecessary hidden costs, as airlines will be required to include the flight fare and cost of luggage as a standard before customers start their booking. The aim is to make the booking process more transparent and to prevent airlines from promoting a cheap fare that can significantly increases in cost when luggage is added.‌What does it mean for passengers?Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, aviation expert James Doyle (FRAeS) explained: "You’ll be entitled to one free personal item (max 40cm x 30cm x 15cm - typically under-seat handbag/backpack/laptop bag) plus one small wheeled cabin bag (widely expected to follow the 7 kg and 100 cm combined dimensions from the parliamentary position)."The European Council of the EU outlined: "To create price transparency, air fares including allowance for a piece of hand baggage shall be displayed by default before the start of any booking process to facilitate fare comparisons between airlines."Does it apply to all flights?Sadly not. UK airlines such as easyJet, British Airways and Jet2 would only need to follow the rule on flights back from the EU into the UK - so it could mean Brits end up having to pay hand luggage fees on one leg of their journey. James caveated: "The rules apply most clearly to EU airlines and flights within the EU; long-haul, non-EU carriers, or certain UK–EU routes may have partial or delayed coverage."‌What does it mean for flight prices?James explained: "Low-cost carriers will almost certainly raise standard ticket prices to recover lost revenue from baggage fees. The real saving depends on comparing the total cost (including any 'no wheeled bag' discount option). Light travellers who previously paid €20–60+ for priority/small cabin bags may benefit most; those who always flew with just a personal item might see little net gain or even pay more."The expert added: "Carriers must let you choose a cheaper fare if you decline the small wheeled bag during booking — useful if you only need the personal item."When does the rule come into force?As it stands, this is a proposal, but it's expected that if it comes into force officially, the change could be implemented within a year. The Founder and CEO of Boston Warwick, James, said: "Current cabin bag fees (common with Ryanair, Wizz Air, easyJet, etc.) remain fully in force for all 2026 and most 2027 bookings.‌"Airlines won’t overhaul policies overnight; expect possible early marketing spin, inconsistent gate enforcement during rollout, and a period of confusion or disputes as staff and systems adapt. Check your specific flight’s terms closer to travel."In a warning to travellers, James said: "At the same time, watch for airlines shifting revenue elsewhere (higher seat-selection fees, priority boarding charges, stricter change/cancellation rules, or new “basic” fare tiers).Article continues belowIn further advice, James said: "This is broadly passenger-friendly and ends the worst 'gotcha' cabin-bag fees, but it’s not a pure win for everyone. Always compare the full journey price, pack and measure to the new standards, and treat 2027 as the real start date rather than assuming instant change."Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com