Ryanair passengers flying from Scotland are being warned about a change to the airline’s baggage rules which comes into force next week.
From Tuesday 10 November, the budget airline will close its airport check-in and bag-drop desks 60 minutes before a flight’s scheduled departure, rather than the current 40 minutes.
The change will apply across Ryanair’s network, including flights departing from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Glasgow Prestwick airports.
It means travellers checking in suitcases will need to allow more time at the airport or risk missing the deadline for handing over their luggage.
For example, passengers booked on an 8am flight must complete the bag-drop process by 7am. Arriving at the airport at that time could already be too late.
Ryanair announced the change in April and issued a reminder to passengers on 27 October.
The airline says the revised deadline is intended to give travellers more time to get through security and passport control before reaching their departure gate.
Ryanair chief marketing officer Dara Brady said: “From Tues 10 Nov, bag drop services at all Ryanair airports will close 60 minutes before scheduled departure, instead of the current 40 minutes.”
He added: “This small change will give the 20% of Ryanair passengers who check in a bag, more time to clear airport security and passport control queues and get to their departure gate before boarding begins, particularly during busy travel periods when airport queues can be longer.”
The airline says approximately 80% of its passengers travel without checked luggage. They will not be affected by the new deadline, provided they have checked in online.
What luggage can Ryanair passengers take for free?
Ryanair passengers can bring one small personal bag on board without an additional charge.
The maximum permitted dimensions are 40cm x 30cm x 20cm. The bag must fit underneath the seat in front.
This allowance was increased in September 2025, when Ryanair introduced larger baggage measuring frames across its airports.
Passengers who want to bring a second cabin bag must purchase the airline’s Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option.
This allows them to take an additional bag weighing up to 10kg, measuring no more than 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, which can be stored in the overhead lockers.
How much does additional luggage cost?
Ryanair charges separately for larger cabin bags and checked luggage, with prices varying depending on the route, travel dates and when baggage is purchased.
According to the airline’s published charges:
- Priority & 2 Cabin Bags costs between £12.49 and £36 when purchased during booking.
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A 10kg checked bag costs between £10.49 and £44.99 when purchased during booking.
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A 20kg checked bag costs between £21.49 and £59.99 when purchased online.
Passengers who arrive at the boarding gate with a bag that exceeds their allowance could face substantial additional charges.
Ryanair’s published fees include charges of up to £75 for certain bags that have to be placed in the hold at the gate, where this service is available. Alternatively, a bag may be refused.
What does the change mean for Scottish travellers?
The biggest difference will be for families and holidaymakers travelling with checked suitcases, particularly those using early morning flights.
Passengers will have to complete bag drop earlier than previously required, while still allowing enough time for queues at the airport.
The new arrangements will also apply when Scottish travellers return from holidays abroad, as the deadline covers Ryanair’s network rather than just UK airports.
Those travelling with cabin luggage alone can continue to check in online and proceed directly to airport security.
Ryanair recommends that passengers checking in luggage arrive at the airport in good time rather than leaving bag drop until the last minute.