Travelling can be an exciting adventure, but for Ruby Flanagan, a recent flight from Dublin to Stansted with Ryanair turned into a costly lesson in the fine print of budget airline policies. Known for its low fares, Ryanair is also infamous for its strict baggage rules and additional charges for seemingly minor infractions. Ruby’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for all of us who try to navigate the often-confusing world of airline travel, especially when it comes to what we can and cannot bring on board.
Ruby’s predicament began innocently enough. She had her 750ml water bottle strapped around her body as she prepared to board her flight. While her backpack was within the airline’s size regulations, she was informed by staff that her water bottle had to be placed inside her bag. Unfortunately, the bottle caused her backpack to bulge, altering its dimensions and making it non-compliant with Ryanair’s strict baggage policy.
The situation escalated when Ruby was told that her now oversized bag would incur a fee of €60 (approximately $100 AUD), effectively classifying her water bottle as a ‘second bag’. Faced with the prospect of missing her flight, Ruby felt she had no choice but to pay the fee, despite her frustration and confusion. ‘What am I supposed to do?’ she asked in desperation, only to be met with the unwavering response that payment was required regardless.
Later, Ruby reflected on the incident and realised that it would have been more economical to leave her water bottle behind for the short 50 minute flight. Adding insult to injury, she noticed other passengers boarding with items such as laptops, travel pillows, and even fast food without issue. Moreover, she had carried the same water bottle on her outward flight without any problems. The additional fee she paid was nearly as much as her return flight ticket, which cost around $70 AUD.
Ryanair’s website clearly states that ‘fares include one small personal bag which can be brought on board, such as a handbag or laptop bag (40x20x25cm), which must fit under the seat in front of you’. Any additional cabin bag up to a maximum weight of 10kg requires an extra fee. Non-priority customers who attempt to bring a 10kg check-in bag to the boarding gate are subject to a fee of £46/€60.
Have you ever faced a similar situation with budget airlines? What tips or strategies do you use to avoid unexpected fees while travelling? Share your stories and advice in the comments below—let’s help each other travel smarter!
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