However, the cost of living is still putting pressure on household budgets, leaving travellers increasingly focused on cutting costs.
Packing smart remains one of the easiest ways to do so and has become even more important as both Ryanair and Aer Lingus update their hand luggage rules for 2026.
Showing up to the airport with a bag that is too large or too heavy can result in hefty fees, so passengers are being urged to double-check airline policies before travelling to avoid a costly mistake.
Dublin Airport liquids rule eased
Thanks to next-generation security scanners now in operation, the long-standing 100ml liquids rule has been relaxed at Dublin Airport.
Passengers can now carry up to two litres of liquids and gels when travelling.
Dublin Airport.
Meanwhile, laptops, tablets, and other electronics no longer need to be removed from bags during screening.
Travellers should note, if returning to Ireland, it’s important to be aware that not all airports across Europe and the UK have installed the same technology, and old rules may still apply,
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Ryanair hand luggage rules for 2026
Ryanair passengers can bring one small personal bag onboard for free, which must fit under the seat in front of them.
In 2026, the maximum size of this bag is 40 x 30 x 20cm, following a recent size increase.
Passengers who ignore the new sizing run the risk of being charged a €70 fee at their boarding gate.
The airline’s prohibited items list includes weapons, sharp objects, explosives, flammable substances and certain battery-powered devices, as well as items deemed unsafe due to their size or nature.
Aer Lingus hand luggage rules for 2026
Aer Lingus has switched up their hand luggage for 2026.
Aer Lingus now offers passengers travelling within Europe two 10kg bag options.
If a 10kg carry-on bag is not included in a booking, passengers can add one from €9.99.
Alternatively, travellers can check in their 10kg bag free of charge at bag drop and collect it at baggage reclaim.
However, bringing a 10kg bag to the gate without having paid for carry-on or priority boarding will result in a €35 charge.
All passengers are still entitled to bring a small personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag, free of charge.
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However, bringing a 10kg bag to the gate without having paid for carry-on or priority boarding will result in a €35 charge. Pic: Peter Krocka/Shutterstock
The maximum size of this item has increased to 40 x 30 x 20cm.
Aer Lingus’ prohibited items include; firearms, sharp objects, tools, explosives and stun devices.
Restrictions also apply to smart luggage containing lithium batteries, electric scooters, hoverboards and certain electronic devices.
Passengers travelling to the United States should also note additional restrictions on powdered substances in cabin baggage, while loose batteries must be properly protected and carried in hand luggage.
Both airlines advise passengers to familiarise themselves with the full list of prohibited and restricted items before travelling.
* This article was originally published on Extra.ie.
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