Enhanced European carry-on regulations forthcoming
In a move aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and transparency, European lawmakers have voted to promote standardization in hand luggage rules across the EU airline industry. The new rule, if adopted, would allow passengers to bring one cabin bag measuring up to 100 centimeters (about 40 inches) and weighing up to seven kilos (15.4 pounds), plus an under-the-seat personal item with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15 centimeters.
This standardization comes as a relief to travellers who have often been caught unawares with incorrectly sized bags when switching between carriers. Low-cost carriers including EasyJet and Ryanair currently allow one free bag that must fit under the seat in front, but with no standardized dimensions across airlines, this has been a source of confusion for many.
Ryanair, Europe's largest airline, has announced that it will be increasing its small-item size limits from 40 x 25 x 20 centimeters to 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters in "the coming weeks, as airport bag-sizers are adjusted." Trade association Airlines for Europe (A4E) has already started applying the guaranteed set of dimensions of 40 × 30 × 15 centimeters for under-seat bags.
While the new hand luggage standards are making headlines, there are other interesting travel stories making the rounds. For instance, a poodle became the newest member of a dog lifeguard team near Malaga in Spain in June. Magellanic penguins, native to Patagonia, were also spotted swimming with beachgoers in Rio de Janeiro on June 29.
In a heartwarming tale, two strangers met on a train and decided to travel the world together. Meanwhile, in a more adventurous turn of events, a plane was delayed leaving Melbourne on Tuesday because a snake got loose in the hold.
On a lighter note, Italy is said to have the best pizza in the United States, and Missoula, Montana, is a must-visit, known for its eclectic university town atmosphere, amazing food, outdoor music venue, fly fishing, and surfing in the center of downtown. The rivers in Missoula are famous, with the 1992 Brad Pitt movie "A River Runs Through It" helping to put the town on the map.
As for those considering a move, at 79 years old, someone ditched New York for Paris, and France has banned smoking on beaches, in parks, and in all outdoor areas frequented by children, with rulebreakers facing fines of up to 135 euros. Germany's nightlife scene is changing, with Gen Z preferring a different kind of fun.
From standardizing hand luggage rules to sharing travel tales, it's clear that the world continues to offer a myriad of exciting experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-timer, these changes and stories are sure to make your next journey even more memorable.
In light of the new hand luggage standards, travelers may find it easier to navigate Europe's airline industry without encountering size-related issues, especially with airlines like Ryanair adjusting their small-item size limits (travel). This news comes at a time when other intriguing travel stories are making headlines, such as the poodle joining a dog lifeguard team in Spain (news) and the unusual incident of a snake delaying a plane in Melbourne (news). On the lifestyle front, France has imposed stricter smoking regulations and Germany's nightlife scene is evolving to cater to Gen Z preferences (lifestyle). These changes and stories demonstrate the endless opportunities for memorable experiences in our ever-evolving world (lifestyle).
