EasyJet hoping new hand luggage in the hold option takes off on its flights

LOW-COST airline EasyJet is introducing  a new service which allows passengers to check their hand luggage into the hold for just £4 and go Hands Free through security and the airport.

As more air travellers ditch their suitcases and cram as much as they can into their carry-on hand luggage this means that overhead lockers on many flights cannot cope with the extra volume. 

The new, innovative EasyJet Hands Free option will cost £4 per person, or £10 for a group bundle (maximum six people) per flight and is designed to encourage people to leave items at the airport bag drop desk before they go through security.

It also neatly sidesteps the security checks concerning restricted amounts of liquids – especially if you’re carrying an expensive bottle of your favourite perfume.

Passengers’ cabin bags will be tagged as priority and will be among the first to be delivered the luggage baggage belt at the arrival airport.

A small plastic bag will be given to you to place any valuable and essential items for your flight.

And you can carry a small under-the-seat laptop or hand bag on board with you. Duty free items purchased in the airport can also be taken on board.

Hands Free passengers will also board the aircraft after Speedy Boarding by presenting their baggage tag to the ground crew.

The scheme was trialled by easyJet in France this spring and it will now be rolled out to all airports in its network except London Gatwick.

The maximum bag size (length + width + height) is 56cm x 45cm x 25 cm, including handles and wheels.