A new year brings new rules, and frequent travellers should take note of the update hand luggage rules for 2025. Whether you’re planning a quick business trip, a long-awaited family holiday, or an island escape to Ibiza, understanding the latest carry-on luggage guidelines will save you time and help you avoid unnecessary stress at the airport.
Ibiza is one of Europe’s top destinations for sun, sea, and adventure. With its direct flight connections to major European cities, many visitors prefer to travel light, bringing only carry-on luggage to skip check-in queues and get to the island faster. However, airlines often update their cabin bag allowance policies to maximise cabin space and streamline boarding.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new hand luggage rules for 2025 and how they could affect your next trip to the White Isle.
Why do hand luggage rules keep changing?
The demand for faster, more efficient airport procedures has led to the introduction of modern security measures, such as G3 scanners, in recent years. These scanners allowed passengers to keep liquids over 100 ml and electronic devices in their bags during security checks. However, recent decisions from EU authorities mean that some of these conveniences have been removed due to security concerns.
Airline-specific hand luggage size and weight allowances
Whether you’re flying into Ibiza for a weekend of beachside bliss or attending one of the island’s famous events, it’s important to know the specific hand luggage dimensions allowed by your airline. Below are the updated allowances for 2025:
Iberia hand luggage rules
- Cabin bag size: 56x40x25 cm
- Weight limit: 10 kg
- Personal item: 40x30x15 cm
Iberia offers a generous carry-on luggage allowance compared to budget airlines, making it a popular choice for travellers who prefer to avoid additional fees.
Ryanair hand luggage policy
- Basic fare: one personal item (40x20x25 cm)
- Priority boarding option: additional cabin bag of 55x40x20 cm (10 kg)
Ryanair’s strict hand luggage rules mean that only a small personal item is included with the basic fare. However, opting for ‘Priority & 2 Cabin Bags’ gives you the flexibility of bringing a carry-on suitcase for your trip to Ibiza, whether you need it for your swimwear or evening outfits.
Vueling hand luggage restrictions
- Basic fare: one personal item (40x30x20 cm)
- Upgraded fare: cabin bag (55x40x20 cm, 10 kg)
Vueling’s policy mirrors Ryanair’s, meaning passengers must upgrade to bring a standard-sized hand luggage suitcase. If you’re planning a last-minute getaway to Ibiza and want to pack more than just the basics, consider upgrading your fare.
Air Europa hand luggage allowance
- Cabin bag size: 55x35x25 cm
- Weight limit: 10 kg
- Personal item: 40x30x15 cm
Air Europa includes a larger cabin bag allowance with its economy ticket, making it a great choice for travellers heading to Ibiza who want to bring a mix of casual and chic island outfits.
New European hand luggage regulations for 2025
Since September 2024, the EU has introduced new travel regulations that apply across all member countries. These changes impact travellers flying to popular destinations like Ibiza.
The most significant change is the ban of G3 scanners at airports. While these scanners allowed passengers to bring liquids over 100 ml and leave electronic devices inside their bags during security checks, they have been deemed non-compliant with international safety standards set by the Airports Council International (ACI).
As a result, airports must revert to traditional security procedures:
- Liquids must not exceed 100 ml per container
- Liquids must be packed in a 1-litre resealable plastic bag
- Electronic devices must be removed from bags during security checks
These regulations, part of EU Aviation Security Regulation 2015/1998, aim to maintain consistent safety standards across all member states.
How do these rules affect travel to Ibiza?
Ibiza is renowned for its ease of travel, with direct flights from most European hubs. However, the reintroduction of stricter hand luggage rules could cause delays at some airports. Passengers arriving for a summer holiday or a winter wellness retreat should be prepared for longer queues at security checkpoints.
Here’s how to avoid delays:
- Measure your luggage: make sure your hand luggage dimensions comply with your airline’s policy before leaving home.
- Plan your essentials: for shorter trips to Ibiza, pack light.
- Stick to liquid guidelines: if you’re bringing your favourite travel-size sunscreen or after-sun lotion, ensure they comply with the 100 ml limit and are stored in a resealable bag.
- Choose the right fare: consider upgrading to a ticket that allows additional carry-on luggage if you need more space for your holiday outfits or souvenirs.
Additional tips for stress-free travel to Ibiza
- Pre-pack wisely: place all liquids and electronic devices at the top of your bag for easy access.
- Avoid heavy items: if you’re bringing gifts, large toiletries, or a guidebook, consider checking a bag to avoid weight issues.
- Download a boarding pass: save time by having your boarding pass ready on your phone.
Why choose Ibiza as your next destination?
Beyond ensuring your hand luggage complies with the latest regulations, it’s worth remembering why Ibiza remains a top destination. The island offers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation, from its turquoise coves and lively beach clubs to its serene inland retreats and wellness offerings.
Whether you’re arriving for a weekend of yoga at a cliffside retreat or a gastronomic tour of the island’s famed restaurants, being prepared with the right cabin bag makes your travel smoother and stress-free
As hand luggage rules become stricter in 2025, staying informed will help you avoid additional fees or delays. Whether you’re flying with Iberia, Ryanair, Vueling, or Air Europa, understanding their carry-on luggage policies ensures you arrive in Ibiza ready to embrace everything the island has to offer.
By following the latest European travel regulations and packing smart, you can focus on what really matters—savouring Ibiza’s golden sunsets, exploring its scenic villages, and enjoying its world-class nightlife.
