Carry-On Bags to Help You Avoid Extra Fees

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I regularly analyse the market to help you make practical and informed purchasing decisions. Choosing the right carry-on bag is often more complicated than it seems. Varying dimension requirements, opaque fee structures, and a plethora of options can make travel preparation difficult. This guide is designed to help you find the perfect bag that meets your exact needs—whether for a flight without extra charges or for an outdoor adventure.

What to Look for When Choosing a Carry-On Bag

Your decision should be based on objective criteria. Here are three key points to guide your selection.

1. Check the Airline's Exact Dimensions

The most critical factor in avoiding extra fees is the dimensions. Budget airlines, in particular, have strict requirements for the free personal item. With Ryanair, for example, only a small underseat bag measuring 40x20x25 cm is permitted free of charge. Larger cabin bags often require booking a Priority fare. Therefore, always check your airline's current regulations before every flight to ensure your travel bag for flying complies with their rules.

2. Functionality and Material Properties

A good cabin bag is more than just a container. Look for a thoughtful interior layout with multiple compartments to keep documents, electronics, and personal items organised and within easy reach. A lightweight flight bag with a trolley sleeve is especially practical when travelling with additional luggage. This sleeve, also known as a pass-through strap, allows you to securely fasten the bag over the handle of a rolling suitcase. The material should be durable and lightweight. Oxford fabric is a popular option here, as it is robust while minimising the bag's own weight.

3. Versatility for Different Types of Travel

Consider what you will primarily use the bag for. A compact model that meets Ryanair's dimensions is ideal for short trips by plane. A slightly larger weekender bag offers more storage space for weekend getaways by car or train. For outdoor activities like multi-day hikes, a specialised 40L trekking backpack is the more sensible choice. Such backpacks are designed for carrying comfort and load distribution, and they offer attachment points for gear.

Recommended Functional Travel Bags

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have curated a selection of bags that are well-suited for different types of travel due to their specific features.

Kono 40x20x25 Holdall: For Budget-Conscious Air Travellers

Why it stands out: With its dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm, this bag is precisely tailored to Ryanair's free personal item allowance. Weighing just 0.36 kg and offering a 20-litre capacity, it maximises what you can bring on board without incurring extra charges.

Advantages:

• Airline-Compliant: Meets the size requirements for the free small personal item on Ryanair and many other airlines.
• Lightweight: Its low weight allows you to pack more without exceeding weight limits.
• Flexible Carrying Options: Features carry handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a rear trolley sleeve.
• Organised Compartments: A main compartment, a large internal mesh pocket, and a front zip pocket keep things tidy.

Who it's for: Ideal for travellers who frequently fly with budget airlines like Ryanair and want to consistently avoid baggage fees. It's perfect for day trips or weekend getaways where only the essentials are needed.

Kono 55x35x25 Cabin Holdall: For More Carry-On Storage

Why it stands out: Measuring 55 x 35 x 25 cm with a 38-litre volume, this bag fits in the overhead compartments of most major airlines, such as easyJet or British Airways. According to the manufacturer, its waterproof Oxford fabric provides extra protection for your belongings.

Advantages:

• Large Capacity: With 38 litres, it offers ample space for trips lasting several days.
• Robust Construction: Made from durable Oxford fabric with reinforced seams.
• 3-in-1 Design: Can be carried as a holdall, a shoulder bag, or transported on a suitcase using the trolley sleeve.
• Versatile Use: Suitable as a weekender bag, gym bag, or a large cabin bag.

Who it's for: Travellers who need more than just the essentials for a short trip and are flying with airlines that have more generous carry-on policies. It's a great option for anyone looking for a single, flexible bag for various occasions.

PELLIOT 40L Trekking Backpack: For Outdoor Adventures

Why it stands out: This trekking backpack is designed for demanding tours. It features an integrated lightweight metal frame for load distribution and a dynamic carrying system that adapts to the body's movements. The 3D-ventilated back system ensures superior comfort.

Advantages:

• Ergonomic Carrying System: The lightweight metal frame transfers weight to the hips, relieving pressure on the shoulders and back.
• High Carrying Comfort: The breathable padding system with S-shaped straps and ventilated mesh fabric keeps your back dry.
• Thoughtful Organisation: Features 40L of volume, a lid pocket, a main compartment, hip belt pockets, and attachment loops for gear like trekking poles.
• Durable Material: Made from abrasion-resistant fabric for use in rough terrain.

Who it's for: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a functional and comfortable backpack for multi-day hikes, camping trips, or trekking tours.

Discover More Options

The models presented here cover specific use cases. If you are looking for a different size, design, or a bag for daily use, you might find the right product in our broader collection.

? Discover our entire selection of Day Bags.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What counts as a carry-on bag on Ryanair?

Ryanair has two categories of cabin baggage. Every passenger is allowed to bring one small personal carry-on bag with maximum dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm on board free of charge. This must fit under the seat in front of you. A larger cabin bag (up to 10 kg, 55 x 40 x 20 cm) is only permitted if you book a Priority fare or pay a separate baggage fee.

How important is a trolley sleeve on a cabin bag?

A trolley sleeve is a very useful feature when you're travelling with more than one piece of luggage. It allows you to securely fix the cabin bag over the retractable handle of a rolling suitcase. This makes transport through airports or train stations much easier, as you'll have one hand free and won't have to carry the weight separately.

Can a 40L trekking backpack be taken as carry-on luggage?

Whether a 40L trekking backpack qualifies as carry-on luggage depends on its exact dimensions and how full it is. When fully packed, many 40-litre backpacks exceed the standard dimensions for carry-on luggage (approx. 55 x 40 x 20 cm). Additionally, the frame and carrying system can increase the overall size. It is advisable to only partially fill the backpack and use the compression straps to reduce its size. Always check the dimensions before your trip and compare them with the airline's regulations.