Are Free Carry-On Bags Coming to Budget Flights in 2026? Here’s What You Need to Know

For years, travellers have grumbled about the hidden costs of flying with budget airlines, and one of the most frustrating has been paying for carry-on luggage. But change may be on the horizon. A new proposal from the European Union could soon require all airlines to include a free carry-on bag in every ticket price. Here’s what we know so far, and what it means for travellers like you.

What’s Changing?

In mid-2025, the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee backed legislation that would ban extra fees for a standard carry-on bag on all flights within or departing the EU. This includes budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet, which currently generate significant income from baggage fees.

The new rule would require airlines to allow one small cabin bag (around 7 kg) and one personal item per passenger, both included in the ticket price.

Why It Matters

For travellers, this change means more transparent pricing. No more comparing flights only to discover one is cheaper because it doesn’t include luggage. If passed, the legislation could take effect by mid-to-late 2026, depending on EU negotiations and rollout timelines.

While the idea of “free” baggage is appealing, some industry experts warn that airlines may increase base fares to make up the difference. In other words: expect higher headline prices, but fewer surprise fees during booking.

What About the UK?

Since this is EU legislation, UK-based flights may not be immediately affected. However, any airline operating within the EU, even if it’s based outside of it, would be required to comply. It’s possible that UK airlines will follow suit to stay competitive and avoid customer confusion.

What You Can Expect as a Traveller

• More transparency when comparing flights.

• A standardised baggage allowance across airlines (goodbye inconsistent policies).

• No more carry-on anxiety about gate bag checks or sneaky fees.

• Likely price adjustments, so overall costs may not change dramatically, but the booking process will become clearer and more honest.

What to Do Now

Until the legislation is finalised and implemented, baggage fees are still a thing. If you're travelling in 2025, make sure to check the fine print and factor in the total cost of your trip.

Looking ahead to 2026, this shift will benefit travellers who prefer to pack light and avoid the hassle of checked baggage. Families and longer-stay travellers might still need to pay for larger bags, but this move simplifies short-haul and weekend trips.

Why Secret Flight Club Members Are Ahead of the Game

If you booked your flights through Secret Flight Club, chances are you already scored a lower-than-average fare, even with a bag added. We keep an eye on airline policy changes, hidden fees, and deal fine print so you don’t have to. And as soon as this new rule rolls out, we’ll be factoring it into our alerts, helping you take advantage of the best-value fares, bag included.

Until then, keep packing smart, reading the small print, and letting us hunt down the deals. Because if baggage fees are going down, your options are only going up.