November 5, 2026, 3:54 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
If you’re heading to the airport with a checked bag, you should plan even more generously with Ryanair in the future. The budget airline is moving up the deadline for checking in luggage significantly–passengers will need to check their bags much earlier. However, even without this change, it can be risky to push the airline’s deadline to the last minute.
Ryanair to Close Baggage Check-in One Hour Before Departure
Starting November 10, Ryanair passengers will need to check their luggage earlier. The baggage check-in will close one hour before the scheduled departure time. Previously, the deadline was 40 minutes before departure.
This shortens the window for travelers with checked baggage by 20 minutes. Ryanair justifies the change with a benefit for affected passengers: They will have more time after checking in their luggage to handle potential lines at security and passport controls and to reach the boarding gate on time.
Also of interest: What happens to luggage after check-in
No Standard Deadline for Baggage Check-in
One hour before the planned departure is generally within the usual deadlines in aviation. However, there are no uniform guidelines for the latest baggage check-in.
According to the German Aviation Association (BDL), the applicable deadline depends on the airline, the airport, and the route. Travelers should therefore check before their journey which deadline applies to their specific flight.
Depending on the airline, passengers can find this information in the booking confirmation, on the boarding pass, and in the app or on the airline’s website.
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Why Passengers Shouldn’t Push the Deadline
The stated deadline for baggage check-in should not be understood as the recommended arrival time at the airport. There can be long distances between the baggage counter and the departure gate. Additionally, there may be waiting times at security and possibly at passport control.
The time required can be especially significant during peak times, such as the start of vacation periods. Travelers often miss their flights because they had to wait too long at security. Therefore, an appropriate time buffer can be crucial.
Change Affects Only a Portion of Ryanair Travelers
According to the airline, only a minority of Ryanair passengers are affected by the new rule. Only about one-fifth travel with large suitcases that need to be checked. The remaining passengers travel with carry-on luggage only.
With material from dpa