Carry-On Luggage Guide: Avoid Extra Fees on Ryanair and More

Additional baggage fees can make a flight unexpectedly expensive, especially with budget airlines. Choosing the right carry-on luggage is therefore crucial to save money and simplify the check-in process. This guide will help you understand the regulations and find the perfect bag for your next trip. As your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I have compiled information to provide you with a solid basis for an informed decision.

What to Look for When Choosing Carry-On Luggage

The choice of the right cabin bag depends on several factors. A well-thought-out decision will save you not only money but also stress at the airport.

1. The Exact Dimensions and Weight Limits of the Airlines

Every airline has its own specific regulations for the size and weight of carry-on luggage. These are often divided into two categories: the larger cabin bag, which is stowed in the overhead compartment, and a smaller, personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you.

• Standard Carry-On: Many airlines like Lufthansa, Eurowings, or easyJet allow dimensions around 55x40x23 cm. A piece of luggage measuring 55x35x25 cm is often a safe choice that is accepted by many carriers.
• Small Carry-On (Underseat Bag): Budget airlines like Ryanair often have stricter rules for the luggage included in the basic fare. Here, the dimensions are limited to approximately 40x20x25 cm. A suitable carry-on backpack or a small flight bag is ideal for this.

Check your airline's current regulations before every flight, as they can change.

2. Functionality and Material

The practical features of a piece of luggage are just as important for a smooth journey as its dimensions.

• Material: Soft-shell luggage made from materials like polyester or Oxford fabric is flexible and lightweight. They often fit better into tight overhead compartments. Hard-shell suitcases offer better protection for fragile items but are more rigid and often heavier.
• Carrying Options: A travel backpack offers the advantage of keeping your hands free. A carry-on duffel bag with an adjustable shoulder strap is also flexible. A very useful feature is a trolley sleeve (also known as a luggage strap or smart sleeve), which allows the bag to be securely attached to a larger rolling suitcase.
• Compartmentalisation: A well-designed interior with separate compartments for a laptop, documents, and clothing makes organisation and quick access at security checks easier.

Our Top Carry-On Picks

Based on the needs of travellers, we have put together a few models that stand out for their dimensions and practical features.

Kono 55x35x25 Cabin Carry-On Duffel Bag

This carry-on duffel bag is a versatile option for short trips and weekend getaways. With its dimensions, it meets the standard requirements of many major airlines.

Why it stands out: The model combines a low weight with a large capacity of 38 litres. The 3-in-1 carrying options (handles, shoulder strap, and trolley sleeve) offer high flexibility when travelling.

Advantages:

• Dimensions:55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm, compliant with many airlines like easyJet and British Airways.
• Material: Made from waterproof Oxford fabric.
• Weight: Only 0.7 kg empty weight.
• Features: Has a practical trolley sleeve on the back.

Who is it for?: For travellers looking for a lightweight and spacious weekender for 2- to 3-day trips who need a bag that can be easily attached to a larger suitcase.

35L Expandable Travel Backpack

This carry-on backpack is designed for travellers who value organisation and adaptability. Its expandable feature makes it particularly flexible.

Why it stands out: The key feature is the expandable design, which increases the volume when needed. The TSA-friendly opening, which unfolds 180 degrees, can speed up the process at security checkpoints.

Advantages:

• Expandable Dimensions: Expands from 50x35x15 cm to 50x35x20 cm.
• Organisation: The main compartment opens like a suitcase and features compression straps.
• TSA-Friendly: The design allows it to be laid flat for easier inspection.
• Carrying Comfort: Stowable shoulder straps and a luggage strap for attaching to a trolley.

Who is it for?: For business travellers and digital nomads who need a well-organised travel backpack that can adapt to different luggage regulations and makes transporting electronic devices easier.

Kono 40x20x25 Cabin Backpack for Ryanair

This model is specifically tailored to the strict carry-on regulations of budget airlines like Ryanair and serves as the perfect underseat bag.

Why it stands out: With exact dimensions of 40x20x25 cm and a weight of just 500g, this backpack is designed to avoid extra fees. Despite its compact size, it offers a well-thought-out compartment layout.

Advantages:

• Airline Compliance: Specifically designed for the "small personal item" rule of Ryanair and other budget airlines.
• Lightweight: Weighs only 500 g with a capacity of 20 litres.
• Structure: The main compartment opens like a suitcase, which makes packing easier.
• Comfort: Padded back and adjustable shoulder straps for comfortable carrying.

Who is it for?: For budget-conscious travellers who frequently fly with low-cost carriers and need a compact, lightweight, and compliant onboard bag for the essentials.

Looking for More Options?

The models presented here cover common travel scenarios. However, if you need a wider selection of backpacks specifically designed as cabin luggage, you can find more models in our category.

? Discover a wider selection of Carry-On Travel Backpacks here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as carry-on luggage?

Most airlines distinguish between a larger carry-on item (cabin bag), which is stowed in the overhead bin, and a smaller personal item (e.g., a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack), which must fit under the seat in front of you. With many budget airlines, only the personal item is included free of charge in the cheapest fare.

How strict are airlines with carry-on dimensions?

This varies. While some airlines are more lenient, budget airlines in particular check the dimensions and weight very carefully, often using metal sizers at the gate. Exceeding the limits can lead to significant extra charges. It is therefore advisable to adhere strictly to the regulations.

Can a backpack be taken on the plane as carry-on luggage?

Yes, a backpack is a very popular choice for carry-on luggage. As long as it does not exceed the size and weight limits set by the airline, it can easily be taken on board as a cabin bag or a personal item. A carry-on backpack is often practical as it keeps your hands free and allows for good organisation.