Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially when it comes to meeting airline baggage requirements. If you’re flying with Aer Lingus, knowing the baggage size and weight limits can save you from last-minute surprises and extra fees at the airport. Whether you’re carrying a small cabin bag or checking in large luggage, understanding the airline’s policies will help you pack efficiently.

This guide provides an in-depth look at Aer Lingus baggage size, including carry-on and checked baggage dimensions, weight limits, and extra baggage fees.

Aer Lingus Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Aer Lingus offers different carry-on baggage allowances depending on your ticket type. Here’s a breakdown of what you can bring on board:

1. Small Personal Item (Included for All Passengers)
2. Every passenger is allowed to bring one small personal item onboard for free. This item must fit under the seat in front of you. The size limits for personal items are:

Maximum Dimensions: 33 cm x 25 cm x 20 cm (13 in x 10 in x 8 in)

Examples of small personal items include handbags, laptop bags, and small backpacks.

1. Large Cabin Bag (Included for Certain Fares)
2. Passengers traveling on Aer Lingus Plus, Advantage, or Flex fares can bring an additional large cabin bag:

Maximum Dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 24 cm (21.5 in x 15.5 in x 9.5 in)

Maximum Weight: 10 kg (22 lbs)

This bag must fit in the overhead compartment.

1. Carry-On Rules for Saver Fare
2. If you book a Saver Fare ticket, the large cabin bag is not included. You have two options:

Purchase a carry-on bag option

Check your bag instead

This policy helps reduce cabin congestion and ensures faster boarding.

1. Priority Boarding for Carry-On Bags
2. Aer Lingus requires passengers bringing a large cabin bag to book a carry-on bag with priority boarding. Without priority boarding, your bag may need to be checked at the gate if overhead space runs out.

Aer Lingus Checked Baggage Policy

Aer Lingus allows passengers to check in luggage based on fare type and destination. Below is an overview of the standard checked baggage allowances:

1. Economy Class Checked Baggage
2. Standard Allowance: 1 checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
3. Maximum Dimensions: 158 cm (62 in) total (height + width + depth)
4. Business Class Checked Baggage
5. Allowance: 3 checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
6. Maximum Dimensions: 158 cm (62 in) per bag
7. Additional Checked Baggage Fees
8. If you need to check additional bags, Aer Lingus offers extra baggage options for a fee. Charges vary based on route and bag weight:

Extra checked bag fees: Typically range from €10–€75 per additional bag.

Overweight baggage fees: If a bag exceeds 23 kg (50 lbs), an overweight fee applies. The airline allows a maximum weight of 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag.

4. Sports Equipment and Special Items

Passengers traveling with sports gear such as golf clubs, bicycles, skis, or surfboards may need to pay additional handling fees. Standard baggage dimensions and weight restrictions still apply.

Baggage Allowance for Transatlantic Flights

Aer Lingus has a slightly different baggage policy for transatlantic flights between North America and Europe. Here’s what you need to know:

Economy Class: 1 checked bag (23 kg) included

Premium Economy (if available): 2 checked bags (23 kg each) included

Business Class: 3 checked bags (23 kg each) included

Passengers flying Economy Class can purchase additional baggage if needed.

Tips to Save on Aer Lingus Baggage Fees

If you’re planning to check additional baggage, following these tips can help you avoid high fees:

Pre-book baggage online – Aer Lingus offers lower baggage fees when you book in advance compared to paying at the airport.

Weigh your bags before heading to the airport – Exceeding weight limits can result in expensive overweight charges.

Upgrade your fare – If you need extra baggage, sometimes upgrading to a higher fare class is more cost-effective than paying for additional bags separately.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

To comply with airline safety regulations, certain items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage. Some prohibited items include:

Liquids over 100ml in carry-on bags (unless purchased after security)

Sharp objects like scissors and knives over 6 cm in length

Explosives, fireworks, and flammable materials

Lithium batteries exceeding airline limits

Always check Aer Lingus’ website for the latest security rules to avoid delays.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Aer Lingus baggage size limits and policies can help you avoid unexpected fees and travel stress. Whether you’re bringing a personal item, a cabin bag, or checked luggage, planning ahead will make your journey smoother.

Before you fly, double-check your baggage allowance based on your ticket type and destination. Since baggage policies may change, visiting the Aer Lingus website before your trip ensures you’re up to date. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience with Aer Lingus.