A Ryanair cabin bag measuring 40x30x20 cm should be more than just spacious-looking in the product photo. It also needs to fit under the seat, be light enough and suit the way you travel. Choose the wrong bag and it may be difficult to close, awkward to carry or too large to meet the permitted dimensions at the gate.
Look out for these common pitfalls:
If you’re taking a free personal bag, always check Ryanair’s current baggage rules before you travel. A commonly used size for a personal bag is 40 x 30 x 20 cm. Sellers may list the height, width and depth in a different order, so check all three measurements.
A 40x30x20 cm bag is wider than a compact 40x20x25 cm bag. That can be useful for clothes, a wash bag and electronics, but it also makes the bag wider. Don’t overfill the side pockets, and use compression straps if the bag has them.
Other budget airlines may allow different cabin bag sizes. So a bag that fits Ryanair’s rules won’t automatically be suitable for every airline. Check the rules of the airline you’re actually flying with.
A lightweight travel bag leaves more of your total permitted weight allowance for your belongings. According to the product information, the Kono holdall weighs 0.36 kg and has a stated capacity of 20 litres. The Kono cabin backpack weighs 0.5 kg and has a stated capacity of around 24 litres.
Bear in mind that capacity is a guide. A bag with a high litre capacity may be less useful if the opening is small or the shape makes it difficult to pack.
You’ll often carry a personal bag through the departure hall, on public transport and from the airport to your accommodation. So check whether it has handles, an adjustable shoulder strap or padded backpack straps.
A trolley sleeve — a strap on the back of the bag — is useful if you’re also taking a suitcase. It keeps the bag on your suitcase instead of leaving you to carry it by hand.
For a weekend travel bag, at least one main compartment and an easy-access outer pocket are useful. Business travellers and students should also look for a 15.6-inch laptop compartment. A padded compartment keeps your laptop separate from your clothes, but it doesn’t replace a hard protective case.
A clamshell opening, which lets the bag open out fully, makes packing more organised. Also check the zips, compression straps and where the power bank pocket is. Always carry a power bank in line with your airline’s baggage rules.
Why it suits this type of traveller: This compact shoulder bag is designed for short trips and travellers looking for a simple, lightweight option without backpack-style compartments.
The product information lists the external dimensions, weight and capacity separately. That means you can compare these details before buying, rather than relying on a marketing term alone.
0.36 kg, 20 litres, adjustable shoulder strap, handles, front pocket and trolley attachment strap.
Why it suits this type of traveller: This cabin backpack is a good choice for travellers who value organised compartments, carrying comfort and room for work equipment.
The listed dimensions are external, and the product information notes that the internal dimensions may differ by 1 to 2 cm. So measure the bag again when it’s fully packed.
Around 24 litres, 0.5 kg, padded compartment for a 15.6-inch laptop, three compartments, padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve.
Why it suits this type of traveller: This compact cabin bag is ideal for frequent short-haul trips when a set size, low weight and easy access matter.
Its compact shape helps you avoid taking too much. However, check Ryanair’s current size limits and don’t overfill the bag to the point where the seams or zip are under strain.
40 x 20 x 25 cm according to the product name, 20 litres and a design suited to use as an underseat bag or compact cabin bag.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.
Not necessarily. The bag must meet Ryanair’s current requirements and mustn’t be so full that its shape becomes larger. Check the official rules before you travel, and measure the bag with its pockets full, including the handles and any parts that stick out.
For a short trip, 20 litres may be enough if you pack compactly. Roll your clothes, choose small toiletries and consider wearing your bulkiest clothes on the flight. If you’re taking a laptop, shoes and extra clothes, a backpack of around 24 litres may be more practical, as long as its external dimensions are permitted.
Choose a cabin backpack with a dedicated, padded laptop compartment and compare your laptop’s dimensions with those of the compartment. The Kono 40x30x20 cm cabin backpack lists a compartment for a 15.6-inch laptop. Use a protective case too if you often take your laptop on your commute or business trips.