Travelling with budget airlines like Ryanair requires careful planning, especially when it comes to luggage. To avoid unexpected extra fees at the gate, adhering to the exact cabin bag dimensions is crucial. Ryanair permits one small personal bag measuring 40 x 20 x 25 cm, which can be stowed under the seat in front of you free of charge.
This article serves as your practical guide. As your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I will present a curated selection of compliant bags and provide you with objective criteria to help you choose the perfect one. The goal is to find a functional solution that meets your needs while satisfying the airline's baggage policy.
Choosing the right bag involves more than just its dimensions. Functionality and material are equally important for a smooth journey.
Strict adherence to the 40 x 20 x 25 cm dimensions is the primary requirement. An under-seat flight bag made from a flexible material like polyester or Oxford fabric has an advantage over hard-shell cases. Soft-sided bags are easier to fit into the sizing cage at the gate, especially when not completely full. Ensure the bag does not exceed the specified dimensions even when packed.
A well-designed interior layout makes it easy to access important documents, electronics, and liquids during security screening. A carry-on travel backpack with separate compartments for a laptop or tablet is particularly practical. Additional carrying options, such as an adjustable shoulder strap or a trolley sleeve on the back, enhance comfort. This sleeve allows the 40x20x25 cabin bag to be easily slipped over the handle of a larger rolling suitcase.
Every gram counts, as airlines often impose weight limits on Ryanair cabin baggage. A lightweight bag allows you to pack more. At the same time, the material should be robust and durable enough to withstand the rigours of travel. Water-resistant properties will protect your belongings from getting wet.
Here is a selection of bags specifically designed to meet Ryanair's requirements for free personal items.
This backpack from Kono is precisely tailored to Ryanair's under-seat dimensions, combining the functionality of a backpack with the packing convenience of a suitcase.
This compact and ultra-lightweight travel bag is well within Ryanair's limits, offering maximum flexibility for minimalists.
This classic travel bag, often called a holdall, maximises the permitted 20-litre volume and offers a simple yet functional solution.
If the models featured here don't perfectly match what you're looking for, other alternatives are available that meet the cabin baggage regulations. Every journey is different and requires a suitable luggage solution.
? Explore our entire collection of under-seat bags
A free personal item for Ryanair is a small bag (like a handbag or laptop backpack) with maximum dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm. It must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Larger bags or a second piece of cabin luggage are subject to a fee.
Yes, a backpack can be taken as your free personal item as long as it does not exceed the specified dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm. A flexible backpack is often a practical choice, as it can be more easily compressed to fit the required size if not overpacked.
Airlines, including Ryanair, conduct checks at the boarding gate. Bags that exceed the permitted dimensions must be checked into the hold for a fee. To avoid these costs, it is strongly recommended that you choose a bag that is proven to comply with the regulations. Using a compliant bag is the most reliable way to prevent issues at boarding.