European Traveler's Airline Carry-On Dispute Explodes on Social Platforms
In the bustling world of travel, packing light has become a crucial skill for every jet-setter, especially when flying with low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Vueling. These airlines have strict underseat cabin baggage policies, with a standard European maximum size of 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.87 inches.
Recently, a traveler named Arina found herself in a carry-on controversy while flying with Spanish low-cost airline Vueling from Paris to London. Despite her bag complying with Vueling's official carry-on size policy, she was told to check three out of four similar carry-on luggage, suggesting suspicion about the size of her bag.
Vueling allows one free underseat cabin bag per passenger, with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.87 inches). Depending on the fare type or extras purchased, passengers may bring an additional cabin bag weighing up to 10 kg with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. If this larger bag is not added in advance, airport fees from €45 to €75 apply.
Ryanair, following the European Airlines for Europe (A4E) group standard, also allows a small personal bag (e.g., handbag or laptop bag) that must fit under the seat with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20 cm. However, the frequently cited size is 40 x 30 x 15 cm as part of a new standardization effort.
EU-wide moves toward standardizing carry-on size aim to reduce confusion, with a recognized standard for underseat cabin bags at approximately 40 x 30 x 15 cm. However, some airlines keep slightly different allowances, and Vueling allows a slightly larger bag for some fare types.
Arina's viral TikTok video, which has over 14 million views, captured the moment she was asked to meet size requirements at the check-in counter. TikTok users have shown support for Arina, with comments such as "You go girl!" and "I think people get angry after they've taken the rules into consideration, followed them, and then are called scamming liars who lie. It's probably that."
The increase in travel demand is causing airlines to become stricter about enforcing carry-on baggage size rules. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), there was an 8% increase in global air travel in April 2025 compared to April 2024. With airplanes getting fuller than ever, airlines are tightening enforcement to manage limited space, potentially leading to stricter checks at the gate for even the most well-prepared travelers.
In conclusion, it's essential for travelers to be mindful of the specific carry-on size requirements for their chosen airline to avoid surprise baggage fees and potential controversies at the gate.
| Airline | Free Underseat Bag Size | Additional Cabin Bag (if any) | Notes | |----------|-----------------------------------|------------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Vueling | 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.87 in) | 55 x 40 x 20 cm, max 10 kg | Fees may apply if added at airport | | Ryanair | 40 x 30 x 20 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 7.87 in) | Larger bags require purchase | Part of European standardization push |
Given Arina's experience with Vueling, she discovers the importance of adhering to the specific carry-on size requirements, even when they match the airline's official policy. Arina's lifestyle as a traveler, constantly on the move, now necessitates careful consideration of airline-specific luggage dimensions when planning her travel, especially with carry-on bags.
