EU Set to Allow Two Free Carry-On Bags Under New Air Passenger Rules

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BRUSSELS, July 4 – Air travellers in the European Union could soon be allowed to bring two pieces of hand luggage on board free of charge under proposed new passenger rights reforms agreed by EU lawmakers and member states.

The preliminary agreement, reached in June, forms part of a broader overhaul of EU air passenger rights aimed at strengthening protections for travellers. One of the most notable changes would require airlines to allow passengers travelling on a standard ticket to carry two items of cabin baggage without paying additional fees.

Under the proposal, passengers would be entitled to bring one personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag or small backpack, that fits beneath the seat in front of them. In addition, they could carry a larger cabin bag weighing up to seven kilograms and measuring no more than 100 centimetres in total dimensions.

The move could significantly reduce extra costs for passengers, particularly those flying with low-cost carriers that currently charge additional fees for larger cabin baggage.

However, the changes are not expected to take effect immediately. The agreement must still pass through further stages of the EU legislative process before becoming law. The new baggage rules are not expected to come into force before the end of 2027, with October 2027 currently seen as the most likely implementation date.

Until then, existing airline baggage policies will remain in place, meaning carriers can continue to apply their own rules and charges for cabin luggage.

The proposed reforms would still allow airlines to offer cheaper fares for passengers who choose to travel only with a small personal item that fits under the seat. As a result, airlines are expected to retain some flexibility in designing fare structures even after the new rules take effect.

The baggage provisions are just one element of the wider reform package. EU institutions are also reviewing rules governing passenger compensation and assistance in cases of flight delays, cancellations and other travel disruptions.

If approved, the reforms would represent one of the most significant updates to EU air passenger rights in recent years, potentially making air travel more transparent and affordable for millions of travellers across the bloc.