So how strict is Aer Lingus about personal item size?
Aer Lingus has two carry-on standard sizes for large aircraft and for smaller aircraft (operated by Stobart Air).
According to the flag carrier of Ireland, you are allowed to have one carry-on bag and one personal item. The carry-on bag and / or the small suitcase must be stored properly in the overhead bin, while the small item must fit under the seat in front of you.
Let’s find out more.
TL;DR
- Aer Lingus permits 1 carry-on (10kg / 22lb on international, 7kg / 15lb on regional flights) plus 1 personal item.
- Carry-on size: 55×40×24 cm (international) / 48×33×20 cm (regional).
- Personal item size: 25×33×20 cm (10″×13″×8″), no set weight limit, must fit under seat.
- Aer Lingus can be strict on busy flights oversized bags may be checked at the gate.
- Slightly oversized items often pass if they fit under the seat, but risk extra fees (€10/kg in Europe, €75 per bag transatlantic).
- Backpacks count as personal items if within limits.
How Strict Is Aer Lingus About Personal Items?
Aer Lingus is a bit strict about its personal item as it specifies its size limits. However, there are ways to mitigate the risk if you want to take a personal item that is a little bit bigger.
The airline will usually be strict for very busy flights.
It may be the case that you also have to check in carry-on even if it’s within the allowed rules at the gate before boarding.
I recommend you pick a compliant carry-on and personal item, which will fit the airline size limits and regulations.
What Is Aer Lingus’ Cabin Baggage Policy?
Aer Lingus size and weight of the main cabin baggage policy for international flights is as follows:
Maximum weight: 10kg (22lb)
Maximum Size:
Height 55cm (21.5″) / Width 40cm (15.5″) / Depth 24cm (9.5″)
When flying on regional flights (operated by Stobart Air), your main bag size and weight will be as follows:
Maximum weight: 7kg (15lb)
Maximum Size:
Height 48cm (18.5″) / Width 33cm (13″) / Depth 20cm (8″)
You must be able to place your own carry-on baggage into the overhead locker without assistance.
Sometimes the airline will have to check your carry-on baggage into the hold due to stowage space limitations.
How Strict Is Aer Lingus About Personal Item Size And Weight?
As stated on the Aer Lingus official website, the airline allows one personal item for all passengers in addition to their carry-on bag.
The size and weight of the personal item for international flights as well as regional flights is as follows:
Maximum Size
This is answer for Aer Lingus on X confirming that the official personal item size is 25cm Height x 33cm Width x 20cm Depth / 10″ x 13″ x 8″.
Weight
There is no weight limit for your personal item, but it must be light. However, it’s rare for airlines to examine the weight of your personal items.
As long as your personal item is easily stored underneath the seat in front of you, you shouldn’t have any issues.
Aer Lingus Cabin Baggage Liquids
Aer Lingus allows liquids in containers of 100ml / 3.4 oz or less packed in a single, transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.
Medicines and special dietary products (e.g., baby food) are allowed in reasonable quantities.
All other liquids must be placed in your checked (hold) luggage.
You can purchase other items in the airport, but they have to be in a sealed security bag.
The item and the receipt must remain sealed inside the security bag provided at the time of purchase.
You can find more details in the EU airport security rules or the TSA liquids rule if flying to / from the U.S.
My Personal Item Is Slightly Overweight, Should I Risk It?
If your cabin baggage or personal item is oversized and / or overweight, it will be checked into the hold and you might need to pay some checked baggage fees.
This is a bit more feasible, but it won’t happen all the time.
Besides, it’s rare for hand luggage to be weighed before you go through the gate.
There’s no guarantee your personal item will be checked for weight, but in our experience, this would happen if your baggage seems too large.
What Will Happen If I Get Caught With Oversized Or Overweight Luggage?
As described above, if you get caught, you may have to pay oversized baggage fees.
If your baggage is overweight at the airport, you will be forced to pay excess baggage fees.
These fees are priced per kilo and depend on your route.
Excess baggage within Europe will cost €10 per extra kilo, and for transatlantic flights, will cost €75 per bag.
Mary wonder how strict Aer Lingus will be with his slightly bigger personal item.
Ally replied that from his experience, even if a bag is slightly oversized, if there is space between you and the bag, it isn’t an issues.
Best Hand Luggage For Aer Lingus Flights
The best way to avoid any hassle at the airport or at the gate is to invest in a good suitcase or personal item that perfectly fits Aer Lingus luggage allowance.
You can get a carry-on bag on Amazon or in a nearby store that will take all your items, and they will ease and make your boarding process smooth.
Is A Backpack A Personal Item Aer Lingus?
Yes, a backpack can be a personal item if it is within the allowed size: Height 25cm (10″), Width 33cm (13″), Depth 20cm (8″), because there is limited space under the seat of the airplanes.
Final Thoughts: How Strict Is Aer Lingus About Personal Items?
You never know what will happen with your personal item until you arrive at the airport, thus I recommend you respect the airline’s carry-on and personal item policy.
Sometimes it is ok if your baggage is slightly big, but find a compatible bag or personal item that will make your flight smooth and comfortable.
However, if you want to take the risk and take more on Aer Lingus, make sure to take a soft-sided bag that can be padded and have more room to take all your belongings.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
More Airline Luggage rules:
