Major Changes Ahead for Travelers: Two Free Hand Luggage Items on EU Flights.
Flying across Europe might soon become a lot more convenient and affordable. EU institutions are working on a major overhaul of air passenger rights aimed at putting an end to hidden fees for carry-on bags. Under the new proposal, travelers buying a standard ticket will have the right to bring two pieces of hand luggage on board free of charge.
Two Bags Included with a Standard Ticket
Under the agreed changes, every passenger flying on a standard fare will be allowed to bring two items into the cabin at no extra cost:
A small personal item: Such as a handbag, small backpack, or laptop bag that fits easily under the seat in front of you.
A larger cabin bag: A standard suitcase or bag weighing no more than 7 kg, with total combined dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 100 cm.
These regulations directly target the common airline practice of charging steep extra fees for carry-on suitcases—fees that can sometimes end up costing as much as the ticket itself.
Budget-Friendly Fares Are Not Going Away
These new rules will not eliminate super-cheap flights altogether. The regulations still leave room for airlines to offer lower base fares to passengers who choose to travel light with no extra cabin bag. The exact details of how these “bare-bones” budget fares will work in practice are still being finalized.
It is also worth noting that the hand luggage update is just one piece of a broader EU package designed to strengthen passenger rights. The plan also includes clearer, stricter rules for compensation and support when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.
When Do the New Rules Take Effect?
Travelers will need to wait a bit longer for these changes to officially launch. While key agreements were reached in June 2026, the project still has to clear the remaining stages of the EU legislative process. According to current estimates, the earliest these rules could go into effect is October 2027.
Until then, current airline-specific baggage limits remain in full force. Passengers should continue checking the size and fee rules of their specific carrier before heading to the airport.
