To think it cannot be mandatory to be asked to check in hand luggage at the gate

[NameChanger401]

I was about to board a flight today and, as often happens, an announcement was made asking passengers to come forward to check in hand luggage as flight is full and not enough space. The announcement said ‘we reiterate this is a mandatory requirement, without priority boarding group must check in hand luggage if requested’.

i usually wouldn’t mind, but today I realised I (stupidly) didn’t have a separate bag to my small suitcase. It contained items I really wouldn’t want to check in - laptop, power bank (don’t think this is allowed), valuables and medication. I therefore basically ‘hid’ away from the gate and came forward at the last minute when I thought enough people had had their bag confiscated (there was plenty of overhead space on board thankfully). However, it got me thinking if I could politely refuse (but didn’t want confrontation which is never a good idea at a boarding gate).

I only every travel with an underseat bag as hand luggage - inc. a bag for life folded in an outside pocket for any sort of emergency.

You can fit a lot in them, and you never risk being separated AND you don't have to lug something massive around at all times.

DenizenOfAisleOfShame last year I was away for 4 weeks (I was made redundant and wanted to make the most of it) we did have a washing machine, but I travelled with EasyJet with their plus size hand luggage, (same size as BA) and came home with things I didn’t wear. It is entirely possible to travel with that size luggage for a 2 week holiday,