Smart Packing: What to Pack to Avoid Extra Fees with Low-Cost Airlines
Flying with low-cost airlines in summer 2025 can be very convenient — but only if you avoid hidden baggage fees. Packing smartly, compactly, and according to airline rules is the secret to travelling light and stress-free.
In this guide, you’ll find practical tips on what to pack in your carry-on and how to organize it to avoid unnecessary charges.
Low-Cost Airline Baggage Rules
Each airline has its own policies, but here’s a general overview:
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Ryanair: 1 small backpack (40x20x25 cm) free. Cabin trolley (55x40x20 cm) only with Priority or paid option.
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Wizz Air: 1 small bag (40x30x20 cm) free. Trolley only with Priority.
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easyJet: 1 small cabin bag (45x36x20 cm) free. Larger carry-on only with higher fare.
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Vueling: 1 small bag included. Trolley only with Optima fare or paid option.
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Volotea: 1 small carry-on bag included. Trolley only with MegaVolotea fare or extra fee.
Exceeding these limits can cost up to €60 at the gate for forced check-in of your trolley.
Choosing the Right Bag
To avoid paying extra, choose luggage that is:
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Soft and flexible — to fit in tight spaces
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With external pockets — for better organization
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Lightweight and sturdy — under 2 kg when empty
Expandable backpacks or ultra-compact trolleys are ideal. Alternatively, a soft duffel bag that adapts to the airline’s size limits works perfectly.
What to Pack for an Optimized Trip
Your goal: pack light while keeping all essentials.
Clothing
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3 lightweight T-shirts
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1 pair of long pants, 1 pair of shorts
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1 sweatshirt or foldable jacket
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Underwear and socks for 3–4 days
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Swimsuit (if needed)
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1 pair of comfy shoes (wear them) + flip-flops in your bag
Useful Items
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Transparent toiletry bag (max 1L) with liquids under 100 ml
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Mini toothbrush and toothpaste, solid deodorant, wipes
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Power bank and cables in a small pouch
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Digital travel documents and boarding pass
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Book or e-reader
Smart Extras
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Vacuum or compression bags to save space
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Small bag for dirty laundry
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Lightweight microfiber towel
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Foldable mini backpack for day trips
What to Avoid
- Liquids over 100 ml (they’ll be confiscated at security)
- Oversized or hard-shell suitcases
- Too many outfit changes
- Heavy or duplicate shoes
The most common mistake? Bringing your whole wardrobe!
Remember: most accommodations offer laundry service, and in summer, light versatile clothing is enough.
Final Tips to Avoid Extra Fees
- Weigh your bag at home before leaving
- Measure its real dimensions (including handles and wheels)
- Wear your bulkiest clothes when boarding
- Use your jacket pockets for small items
Always check your airline’s latest baggage policy — they can change from season to season
Unexpected Fees or Disruptions? Know Your Rights
If you face a delay, cancellation, or overbooking, even on a low-cost flight, you may be entitled to compensation up to €600 under EU Regulation 261/2004.
DelayFlight24 can help you:
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Get free legal assistance
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Receive your compensation directly
Conclusion: A Well-Packed Bag is Worth Gold
Smart packing is the first step to a stress-free, low-cost trip.
Avoiding extra fees is easy with a bit of planning, smart clothing choices, and awareness of airline rules.
In summer 2025, airlines will be stricter than ever with cabin baggage — so it’s best to be prepared.
And if something goes wrong, remember there are tools to help you claim what you’re owed.
