Packing for a budget airline flight can be a stressful experience, as baggage requirements seem to be updated constantly. It is essential to check the most up-to-date luggage rules prior to travelling, ensuring you avoid being hit with extra charges at the gate.

However, some travellers may be unaware that luggage regulations extend beyond simply the size and weight of your suitcase. One particular type of bag, popular amongst those who like to travel with numerous gadgets, cannot be placed in the hold on most airlines, including Ryanair.

Smart bags - those featuring a built-in battery and USB charging port - are prohibited from being checked into the hold on Ryanair flights if the battery remains inside. There is also a 100Wh maximum for batteries carried in the cabin, meaning passengers should check the capacity before they depart.

Should you wish to place your smart bag in the hold rather than bringing it into the cabin, Ryanair's website states they "may be checked in as hold luggage only if the lithium battery is removed before the bag is checked in at the bag-drop desk or at the gate."

It clarifies: "The battery must not be placed in the hold under any circumstances. The removed battery must be carried with you in the cabin and placed in small baggage that is placed underneath the seat in front of you or on your person. Removed batteries must not be placed in the overhead lockers." Certain bags do not offer the option to remove the battery, and Ryanair specifically states: "If the battery is non-removable the bag is not permitted as checked baggage.", reports the Mirror.

Ryanair has recently revised its luggage policy for passengers bringing a complimentary under-seat bag onboard. These bags may now be 20 per cent larger, measuring up to 40x30x20cm, compared to the previous allowance of 40x25x20cm. In theory, these compact bags have no weight limitations, though they must be sufficiently light for a passenger to manage and carry onboard.

The budget carrier has also announced a further forthcoming modification to its baggage policy. Ryanair CMO, Dara Brady, said: "From Tuesday 10 Nov next, Ryanair customers will see airport check-in and bag drops close 60 minutes before scheduled departure, instead of today's 40 minutes.

"This will allow these 20 percent of our customers [checking baggage] more time to clear through airport security and passport queues, and get to their departure gate on time, especially during busy travel periods when some of these airport queues can be longer."

The airline also floated a more light-hearted suggestion on its Facebook page, joking: "we'll be charging yappers on our 6AM flights very soon" and suggesting that passengers who become talkative on its early morning services should face a charge for disturbing fellow travellers.

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