Will new EU rules on carry-on bags push up the price of flights?

From 2027, airlines operating in the bloc will be required to include the cost of a 7kg carry-on bag, along with a personal item, in the price of a standard ticket. 

However, the rules will also allow passengers to opt out of bringing a 7kg carry-on item and claim a cheaper flight. 

On Lunchtime Live, travel blogger Tara Povey said she could understand people’s concerns. 

“I think people will probably be afraid that it's going to increase the prices initially,” she said. 

“But there is the caveat where they can offer people to opt out of the little suitcase.

“So, people will still get the reduced fare or they might even offer a reduced fare if you opt to put your 7kg suitcase in the hold instead of carrying it on.” 

Despite this, Ms Povey warned people to remain vigilant when they travel with carry-on luggage. 

“Honestly, I wouldn't put it past some of the airlines to be weighing them anyway, as you go through the gates with the way they are, they've charges,” she said. 

“It's just another thing they'll probably be trying to charge you extra for then if you're over the 7kgs at the check-in gate.” 

Ms Povey added that she would be “surprised” if airlines did not continue to charge people for certain additional extras. 

“Like, Michael O’Leary is a very savvy businessman,” she said. 

“He's going to offer what he thinks the customers want and he's going to have loads of different options because he's got to keep it budget friendly or else what's the point in Ryanair?”

Main image: Overhead baggage. Picture by: Alamy.com.