Packing smart can save you money, especially when flying Ryanair, where extra baggage fees can quickly add up. A travel expert has shared a few clever tricks to help passengers avoid paying extra for luggage, and some of these hacks are already going viral among frequent flyers.
TikTok travel influencer Ellen Grace recently revealed several packing secrets that can help travelers maximize their carry-on allowance without breaking the airline’s strict baggage policies. With Ryanair’s fees for checked and oversized hand luggage often surprising passengers at the airport, these creative solutions could make a significant difference for budget-conscious travelers.
1. The Crossbody Bag Trick
One of the most talked-about strategies is the crossbody bag trick. This involves wearing a small bag under a coat, sweater, or hoodie to discreetly carry extra items. Since Ryanair enforces strict cabin baggage limits, many passengers use this method to bring additional personal belongings without exceeding the airline’s allowance.
By keeping essentials like chargers, snacks, and small clothing items in a concealed crossbody bag, travelers can save space in their main carry-on while avoiding last-minute luggage fees at the gate.
2. Duty-Free Shopping Hack
Another unexpected but effective trick involves shopping at duty-free stores inside the airport. Many airlines, including Ryanair, allow passengers to carry an extra shopping bag from airport retailers—even if they have already reached their baggage limit.
By purchasing small but bulky items like toiletries, snacks, or accessories, travelers can secure an additional bag, which can then be used to pack extra clothing or travel essentials without violating Ryanair’s baggage restrictions.
Additionally, UK travelers using Boots’ Click and Collect service can pre-order toiletries or other essentials online and pick them up after security. Since these items are placed in an official Boots shopping bag, Ryanair cannot classify them as additional luggage.
3. The Pillow Hack
Perhaps the most unconventional travel hack is the pillow trick, which has been widely adopted by frequent flyers looking to pack extra clothes without a carry-on fee.
Since travel pillows are allowed on flights, some passengers fill them with soft items like socks, T-shirts, or small clothing pieces rather than packing them in their suitcase. This simple trick allows travelers to increase their packing capacity while keeping their hand luggage within Ryanair’s size restrictions.
Do These Hacks Really Work?
While these packing strategies are widely used, travelers should always be cautious and ensure they comply with airline regulations. Ryanair has tight restrictions and may challenge passengers whose luggage appears suspiciously oversized. However, these creative methods have been tested by many budget-conscious travelers and continue to gain popularity among frequent Ryanair flyers.
For those looking to save on travel expenses, these simple tricks could mean the difference between a budget-friendly flight and unexpected baggage fees. As airlines continue to enforce strict luggage policies, knowing how to pack smarter has never been more valuable.
Would you try any of these packing hacks on your next flight?
