A passenger has recounted being fined £50 by Ryanair for carrying a water bottle strapped to her body while boarding, an expense she incurred due to an alleged breach of the airline’s luggage policy.
Ruby Flanagan, who was travelling from Dublin to Stansted on 4 February, shared her experience with The Mirror, detailing how she was stopped at the boarding gate.
A staff member verified her backpack fit within the designated dimensions, yet subsequently charged her for the 750ml water bottle she wore across her torso, insisting it be packed inside her bag.
Flanagan, who hadn’t faced this issue on her outbound journey, complied but was later told her now adjusted bag exceeded size limits, compelling her to pay the fee to continue onto her flight.
She witnessed other passengers with various items unchecked, highlighting inconsistencies in policy enforcement. Ryanair defended its stance, citing adherence to baggage regulations tied to her Basic Fare ticket, which only includes a small personal item.
Travel expert Simon Calder expressed empathy but acknowledged the airline’s policy was technically upheld.
This incident underscores the challenges passengers may face with budget airlines’ strict baggage rules, which can significantly inflate travel costs.
