Ryanair has a strict hand luggage policy that often sees people facing extra fees at the airport if they show up with bags too large for their allowance. However, occasionally when there are too many cabin bags to load into overhead lockers and under seats, some passengers may be asked to check their bags into the hold for free.

This is why the Irish carrier says bringing a small, foldable bag in your hand luggage is a good option.

On its website, Ryanair shared with passengers some packing tips they “need to know” before jetting off on their flight. The airline urges passengers to pack a “lightweight, foldable bag inside your carry-on luggage.”

They explained: “If you’re asked to hand over your carry-on luggage to check-in crew at the last minute because the overhead lockers are full, you’ll have somewhere to stash your phone, e-reader, money, snacks and any other valuables you can’t live without during the flight.

“This small bag can then be placed under the seat in front of you.”

Similarly, passengers who arrive at the gate with a cabin bag that exceeds the free hand luggage allowance may be required to check their bag into the hold, unless they have paid for an extra cabin bag.

Ryanair’s hand luggage allowance isn’t the most lenient, though many budget airlines are beginning to enforce similar restrictions, so it is always vital passengers understand exactly what they are allowed to bring onboard.

Passengers who do not want to pay for any extra luggage will be permitted one small personal bag measuring 40 x 20 x 25cm. This bag must fit under the seat in front of you.

Passengers who pay for Priority boarding will not only get to board the plane before standard air-fare passengers but will also be permitted an additional cabin bag which can measure up to 55 x 40 x 20cm and weigh up to 10kg.

This is a great option if you are going away for a long weekend, and can cost as little as £6 when purchased in advance.

However, it’s worth noting that the price of Priority or additional luggage depends on the route and dates of travel.

If you wish to check in a bag, you can add a 10kg or 20kg check-in bag to your booking which must be dropped off at the check-in desk before security. Both come at an additional cost.

In all cases, buying your additional extras, whether it is more luggage or selecting a seat onboard, is cheapest when purchased online before you arrive at the airport.