Flying with Ryanair: Your Quick Guide 2024

Flying with Ryanair can be an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, offering low-cost flights across the UK and Europe. However, to make sure you don't pay more than the ticket price, read this quick overview of their policies, services, and what to expect at the gate. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover what you need to know before flying with Ryanair.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Ryanair
2. Booking Your Flight
   • Choosing the Right Fare
   • Adding Extras
3. Understanding Ryanair’s Baggage Policies
   • Cabin Baggage
   • Checked Baggage
4. Check-In Process
5. Onboard Experience
6. Ryanair’s Cancellation and Refund Policies
7. Tips for a Smooth Ryanair Flight
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
9. Conclusion

1. Introduction to Ryanair

Known for its no-frills service, Ryanair focuses on keeping costs low by charging for additional services and amenities separately. Ryanair is Europe’s largest budget airline, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Established in 1984, it has become a go-to choice for travellers looking for affordable flights across Europe. 

2. Booking Your Flight

Choosing the Right Fare

Ryanair offers several fare types, each catering to different traveler needs:

• Standard Fare: Includes a small personal bag (40cm x 20cm x 25cm).
• Value Fare: Adds a 10kg cabin bag and Priority Boarding.
• Regular Fare: Includes a 20kg checked bag and reserved seating.
• Plus Fare: Provides flexibility with flight changes and includes all perks of the Regular Fare.
• Flexi Plus Fare: Offers maximum flexibility, including free flight changes, Fast Track security, and more. 

Adding Extras

When booking your flight, you can add various extras:

• Checked Baggage: Options for 10kg, 20kg, and 32kg bags. Fees range from £8.50 to £35.50, depending on weight and route per flight.
• Priority Boarding: Allows an additional 10kg cabin bag and priority boarding for a fee of £7 to £20 per flight.
• Reserved Seating: Choose your preferred seat for an additional fee, ranging from £4 to £15 per flight.
• Travel Insurance: You can buy cover for unexpected events.

3. Understanding Ryanair’s Baggage Policies

Read the full guide to Ryanair Cabin Baggage 2024.

Cabin Baggage

Ryanair has strict cabin baggage policies:

• Free Allowance: One small bag (40cm x 20cm x 25cm) that must fit under the seat in front.
• Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: Allows an additional 10kg cabin bag (55cm x 40cm x 20cm) which goes into the overhead locker for a fee of £7 to £20 per flight.

Checked Baggage

For checked baggage, Ryanair offers several options:

• 10kg Checked Bag: Ideal for short trips, costing between £8.50 to £14.50.
• 20kg Checked Bag: Standard option for longer trips, costing between £21 to £35.50.
• 32kg Checked Bag: Available for those needing more space, costing between £38.50 to £60.

4. Check-In Process and Costs

Ryanair’s check-in process is straightforward but essential to follow:

• Airport Check-In: Available for an additional fee of £55. It’s advisable to check in online to avoid extra charges.
• Free Online Check-In: Opens 24 hours and stops 2 hours before departure. Use the Ryanair app or website to check in.
• Online Check-In With Paid Allocated Seat Reservation: Opens 60 days to 2 hours before the scheduled departure. Use the Ryanair app or website to check in.

Your boarding pass can be shown in the app, saved to your device or printed on paper. Failure to present a boarding pass at the airport may result in a fee of £20.

5. Onboard Experience

Seating and Comfort

Ryanair’s seating is basic, with minimal legroom compared to other airlines. For a more comfortable experience, consider:

• Extra Legroom Seats: Available for an additional fee of £15 to £25.
• Reserved Seating: Choose your preferred seat in advance for a fee of £4 to £15.
• Free Seat: By checking in online 24 hours to 2 hours before departure, you can be automatically allocated a seat by Ryanair for free.

In-Flight Services

Ryanair offers a range of paid in-flight services:

• Food and Drinks: Purchase snacks, meals, and beverages on board.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Browse a selection of duty-free items.
• Entertainment: Bring your own devices and download content as Ryanair does not provide in-flight entertainment.

6. Ryanair’s Cancellation and Refund Policies

Flight Changes

Ryanair allows flight changes up to 2.5 hours before departure. Fees vary based on the fare type and time of change:

• Flexi Plus Fare: Free changes.
• Other Fares: Subject to change fees and fare differences, typically ranging from £45 to £95.

Refunds

Ryanair’s standard fares are non-refundable, but you may be entitled to a refund in cases of:

• Flight Cancellations: If Ryanair cancels your flight, you can choose between a refund, rebooking, or a travel voucher.
• EU261 Compensation: For significant delays or cancellations, you may be eligible for compensation under EU261 regulations.

7. Tips for a Smooth Ryanair Flight

Packing Tips

• Light Packing: Avoid checked baggage fees by packing light and adhering to cabin baggage rules.
• Soft Pack Backpacks: Use soft bags rather than hard cases to make sure you don't go over luggage dimensions.
• Essential Items: Keep essential items like medications, travel documents, and electronics accessible in your small cabin bag.

At the Airport

• Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight to allow time for security checks and boarding.
• Check Your Gate: Regularly check the flight information screens for gate changes.
• Be Prepared: Have your boarding pass and identification ready for inspection.

During the Flight

• Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill up after security checks.
• Bring Snacks: Save money by bringing your own snacks on board.
• Entertainment: Download movies, music, or books to keep yourself entertained during the flight.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bring duty-free items on board?

Yes, in addition to your cabin luggage, you can bring duty-free shopping bags from the airport on board.

What happens if my bag is too big or heavy?

If your bag exceeds the size or weight limits, you’ll need to pay a fee to check it in at the airport. The fee ranges from £25 to £55, depending on the route and bag size.

Are there exceptions for medical equipment or baby items?

Yes, necessary medical equipment and baby items such as a nappy or diaper bag and stroller are allowed in addition to your cabin luggage.

Can I bring food on board?

Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages on board.

What if I need more luggage space?

Consider purchasing a checked bag option if you need more space. Ryanair offers various options for checked luggage at the time of buying the ticket and at check-in.

9. Conclusion

Check on Flying with Ryanair can be a smooth experience when you’re well-prepared, but there are plenty of pitfalls to avoid. By understanding their policies, booking the right fare, check-in online and packing efficiently, you can avoid a lot of extra fees and enjoy your journey. Always check the latest updates on Ryanair’s official website before you travel, as policies and fees can change.

Remember to check Ryanair's full list of fees and latest baggage policies on Ryanair’s official website before you travel, as rules can change.

Good luck navigating your next flight with Ryanair with ease. Safe travels!