Ryanair 2025: New travel rules

From Paperless boarding to luggage limits – Get Ready for New Travel Rules

Flying with Ryanair is about to change in 2025, with new policies set to impact how passengers check in, pack, and even arrive at the airport. Known for its affordable fares, the airline is tightening its rules, and not keeping up could lead to hefty fees or unexpected surprises. Here’s what travellers need to know.

Ryanair goes paperless: Digital boarding passes mandatory by May 2025

Starting May 2025, Ryanair will go fully digital, eliminating paper boarding passes entirely. Passengers will be required to use the Ryanair app to access their mobile boarding pass. Currently, forgetting to download or print a pass can cost €66 at the airport, but soon, there won’t even be an option to print one on-site.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary called the move a step towards a smoother, more efficient travel experience. “We’re phasing out check-in desks, just as we’ve already streamlined luggage counters. Everything will be done digitally through the app,” he said.

For many, this will mean easier boarding and no last-minute fees for forgotten printouts. However, for those less tech-savvy, it’s time to start practicing with the app to avoid airport headaches.

Ryanair’s hand Luggage policy: What to expect in 2025

Ryanair’s tight hand luggage rules aren’t budging. Passengers are allowed just one small personal bag (40 x 20 x 25cm) included in the ticket price, and it must fit under the seat in front of you.

For those needing extra space, Priority Boarding or a checked 10kg bag are available – but at a price. Booking Priority in advance can cost between €7 and €43, while showing up with an unbooked 10kg bag at the gate could set you back €55.

To avoid extra charges, many travellers are turning to smart packing solutions, like the affordable Aerolite holdall designed to meet Ryanair’s strict dimensions. TikTok users have hailed it as the ultimate Ryanair hack, with one popular creator calling it “the perfect carry-on to save money.”

For those travelling with more, planning ahead is key. Booking luggage online is significantly cheaper than dealing with fees at the airport.

Ryanair’s punctuality rules: Avoid fines by arriving on time

Ryanair’s punctuality policy is as strict as ever. Passengers are expected to be at their gate no later than 40 minutes before departure. Arrive late, and you risk a missed departure fee of €120, with rebooking costs adding insult to injury.

The airline even allows passengers who miss their flight by up to an hour to rebook at the same cost. While this offers some flexibility, the high fees mean it’s better to leave plenty of time to navigate security and get to your gate.

Ryanair’s changes for 2025 aim to streamline the travel experience, but they also demand more preparation from passengers. With no paper boarding passes, tight luggage rules, and steep fees for lateness, the message is clear: stay organised and plan ahead.

For budget-conscious travellers, the savings are still there, but only if you play by the rules. As one passenger put it, “Flying Ryanair is easy – as long as you know exactly what you’re doing.”

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