By: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer
Travelling with budget airlines like Ryanair requires careful planning, especially when it comes to luggage. The strict allowance for the free personal item – exactly 40x20x25 cm – is familiar to many travellers. A bag that exceeds these dimensions can lead to unexpected fees at the gate. This article serves as a practical guide to help you find a suitable luggage solution that meets the guidelines and simplifies your journey. We will present a selection of bags tailored to these specific requirements and provide useful tips for your purchasing decision.
Choosing the right bag goes beyond just the dimensions. Functionality and material play a crucial role in ensuring a stress-free journey.
The most important feature is adherence to the maximum dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Ensure that these measurements include the entire bag, including external pockets, handles, and any feet. A low empty weight is also advantageous, as it gives you more allowance for your belongings. Materials like durable Oxford fabric or polyester offer a great balance of longevity and lightness.
A well-designed flight bag helps you make the most of the limited space. A separate compartment for travel documents, a padded section for a tablet or small electronic devices, and easily accessible outer pockets for liquids or snacks make organisation and quick access during security checks and on board much easier.
A good cabin bag should be flexible. Adjustable shoulder straps, sturdy carrying handles, and especially a rear sleeve for attaching it to a larger carry-on suitcase (trolley sleeve) significantly increase comfort. This leaves your hands free on the way to the gate.
Here is a selection of luggage items that are ideal for travelling with Ryanair. Each model meets different needs, from a simple small underseat bag to a fully-featured cabin trolley.
Why it stands out: This model was specifically designed to meet Ryanair's small personal item dimensions. The 3-in-1 carrying function (handles, shoulder strap, trolley sleeve) offers maximum flexibility when travelling.
Benefits:
Who is it for?: Ideal for budget-conscious weekend and city travellers who fly only with the free personal item and want to consistently avoid extra fees.
Why it stands out: This version of the Kono cabin bag is even lighter at just 0.36 kg, yet still offers full capacity and compliance with the 40x20x25 cm dimensions.
Benefits:
Who is it for?: For travellers where every gram counts and who are looking for a minimalist yet functional solution for short trips.
Note: This piece of luggage is intended for passengers who have booked the "Priority & 2 Cabin Bags" option with Ryanair. It serves as the larger of the two permitted cabin bags and fits in the overhead locker.
Why it stands out: This carry-on suitcase made of durable polypropylene offers the protection of a hard shell while remaining lightweight. The integrated TSA lock and smooth 360-degree spinner wheels make it a comfortable travel companion.
Benefits:
Who is it for?: For business travellers or holidaymakers on longer short trips who use Ryanair's Priority service and prefer a sturdy, secure, and easy-to-manoeuvre cabin trolley.
If the models presented here don't exactly match what you're looking for, or if you're searching for different designs, materials, or sizes, you might find the right product in our broader selection.
Discover our entire collection of Cabin Trolley Bags.
1. What happens if my cabin bag is too big at the gate? Airlines like Ryanair perform spot checks on cabin bag dimensions at the gate. If your bag is too large, it must be checked into the hold for a fee. This fee is typically much higher than the cost of booking checked luggage online in advance.
2. Do wheels and handles count towards the cabin bag dimensions? Yes. The specified maximum dimensions (e.g., 40x20x25 cm or 55x40x20 cm) refer to the overall size of the luggage. This includes all protruding parts such as wheels, handles (including side ones), and external pockets.
3. Can I bring a handbag in addition to the small bag (40x20x25 cm)? With a standard Ryanair ticket, only one small personal item per passenger is allowed, which must fit under the seat in front of you. An additional handbag or laptop bag is not permitted and must be stowed inside this one piece of luggage. Only with the "Priority & 2 Cabin Bags" fare are you allowed to bring a second, larger cabin bag on board.