Has anyone actually used the 20" RS rolling bag on Ryanair flights in Europe? We already ordered our tickets and only indicated that we would need one checked bag and one carry-on. Neither my husband, nor myself is able to carry a backpack for any distance. We will be traveling for a month, with occasional access to a washer/dryer. We had planned to bring a carry-on and a second light rolling suitcase apiece. Now I'm reading horror stories of Ryanair rejecting bags and charging exorbitant fees to check a second bag. Their regs state that carry-on bags must be no more than 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.8." I was wondering if the 9" measurement on the RS bag was expanded size. We can pack it unexpanded and make sure the weight is within their 22 pound limit. BUTwill it still be too deep for their requirements? I'm ready to order two immediately, if I get confirmation that these bags are acceptable to Ryanair. The only other solution I see is to order the Samsonite bag that Ryanair sells and guarantees, if within weight limits. Since those bags have mixed reviews, I'd rather not do that unless I have to. Thanks.
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
Rather than wait until you arrive at the gate to learn that your bag is too large, just pay to check it when you buy the tickets for your flight (if you think it is too large). Those measurements given by the airline are for total length, etc. So when you measure your bag, include the total with wheels and handles. A 20" bag may fit these requirements. For depth, I would think that unexpanded depth would be valid. There is a measurement box at many gates; if your bag fits it's ok. Having said that, sometimes an employee will reject your bag for its size before you even reach the ticket desk. Arguing may help, but I think that sometimes bags are rejected simply because the employee has decided that there are already enough carry-on bags accepted. You can try getting there early so you are one of the first in line. I once was in a check-in line behind a woman carrying a fairly large backpack. The clerk said the bag was too large, and the passenger said, "I can make it smaller." Her bag was allowed!!
Posted by
OP
Los Angeles
2 posts
After looking more carefully, I found that the dimensions on the RS roller backpack fit the Ryanair guidelines--hurrah! Using that and checking the 20" roller bag should work perfectly. I know a more experienced traveler could probably skip the checked luggage altogether, but I'm feeling good about reducing our requirements to two easily managed small bags, one of which, we can briefly wear on our backs when boarding trains, etc. We're in our late 60's - mid 70's, and this month-long European trip is the first we've traveled for more than 10 days at a time since we were a young married couple! We're very excited and a tad nervous, but know that even if we do encounter a few glitches along the way, we'll have the time of our lives!