A Ryanair backpack measuring 40 x 30 x 20 cm might seem easy to choose, but small differences in shape, padding and layout can determine whether it fits comfortably under the seat. The same applies if you’re flying with easyJet, Wizz Air, Vueling or another European airline.
Always check your airline’s current baggage rules before you travel. Size limits, weight restrictions and conditions for a personal item can change. Also check whether the backpack’s measurements are taken from the outside and include handles, front pockets and any protruding parts.
A bag might be advertised as 40 x 30 x 20 cm, but a bulging front pocket, rigid back or overfilled contents can make it larger. Soft backpacks in particular often end up roomier than expected when packed to capacity.
So, check:
An underseat backpack needs to fit within the stated dimensions and be practical to slide under a seat.
A bag with lots of small pockets might look organised, but leave little room for clothes or shoes. For a weekend trip, a spacious main compartment with a wide opening is often more useful than a long list of narrow pockets.
An opening that unzips wide, like a small suitcase, makes packing easier to organise. A separate front pocket is useful for your passport, phone and boarding pass. Also check whether the laptop compartment is well padded and doesn’t sit directly against the ground or the outside of the bag.
A lightweight travel backpack is handy at the airport and for commuting. However, low weight alone tells you nothing about the seams, zips or carrying comfort. Look for polyester or a similar fabric, reinforced seams, sturdy zips and padded shoulder straps.
“Water-repellent” doesn’t automatically mean waterproof, either. According to a brand’s product information, a coating can help repel light rain, but for prolonged rain it’s sensible to use a separate rain cover or waterproof packaging for electronics.
For a 40 x 30 x 20 cabin backpack, the external dimensions are the first thing to check. A capacity of around 20 to 25 litres is often practical for clothes, toiletries and electronics on a short trip. According to the product information, the Kono backpack in this selection has a capacity of around 24 litres, weighs approximately 0.5 kg and measures 40 x 30 x 20 cm externally.
Allow for possible measurement variations. The manufacturer states that the internal dimensions of this model may vary by around 1 to 2 cm. So, don’t overfill the backpack until it bulges if you plan to use it as a personal item.
For business travellers, students and commuters, a hand luggage backpack with a laptop compartment is more practical than an ordinary weekend bag. Check:
A travel backpack for a 15.6-inch laptop should ideally have a padded compartment. The laptop size doesn’t always match the computer’s external dimensions, so measure your device before you order.
A backpack for short trips is often used as a work or school bag, too. Padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel and a sturdy top handle are useful features. A trolley sleeve is handy if you want to secure the backpack to a suitcase’s handle.
Also consider the backpack’s own weight. A bag weighing 0.5 kg leaves more of your weight allowance for clothes. Of course, the final load depends on what you pack.
Why it suits this type of user: This Ryanair personal item combines a fixed size with a layout suited to short trips, everyday use and commuting. According to the product information, it has room for around 24 litres and a laptop of up to 15.6 inches.
The stated external dimensions are 40 x 30 x 20 cm. Compression straps help keep the bag compact when the contents aren’t lying completely flat.
Around 0.5 kg, three compartments, a padded 15.6-inch laptop compartment and a wide-opening design.
Why it suits this type of user: This water-repellent travel bag is designed for people who want to carry work essentials, clothes and smaller damp items separately. The product name mentions a laptop compartment and wet-dry storage.
The tote shape means you don’t have to rely solely on small organiser pockets. Before buying, check the current dimensions when expanded and don’t fill the bag beyond the permitted size.
Measures 40 x 30 x 20 cm according to the product name, with a laptop compartment and separate wet-dry storage according to the listed specifications.
Why it suits this type of user: This isn’t an underseat backpack for Ryanair, but a foldable carry bag for moving house, long journeys or carrying bulky items. It’s suited to a different purpose from a personal item.
Its large capacity makes it clear that this product isn’t intended as a free personal item. That way, you can avoid buying a roomy bag that won’t fit under the seat.
According to the product information, it weighs around 398 grams, folds away and expands from 75 to a maximum of 140 litres.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Not necessarily. The bag also needs to slide under the seat, taking its shape and how it’s packed into account. Check Ryanair’s current conditions and allow for protruding pockets, a bulging front and the contents.
For many travellers, around 24 litres is enough for a two- to three-day stay, depending on the clothes and shoes you take. Roll your clothes up compactly and use the pockets for smaller items. If you’re carrying lots of equipment or bulky clothes, you might need extra baggage.
Wipe polyester with a soft, damp cloth and avoid harsh cleaning products. Let a wet bag air fully and don’t store it in direct sunlight for long periods. Don’t overload the zips and seams, as this can shorten the bag’s lifespan.