Joybuy Insights

Choosing a travel bag without regret: check the dimensions, compartments and comfort

A travel bag may seem easy to choose, but small differences can determine how comfortable it is to travel with. A bag that looks spacious enough on paper may be too large for hand luggage. A water-repellent outer material also won’t necessarily keep your belongings dry in prolonged rain. And a handy laptop backpack can become uncomfortable in practice if the compartments or shoulder straps don’t suit your everyday needs.

As Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I focus on features you can check. Look out for these common pitfalls when buying:

  • Looking only at capacity: a capacity of, for example, 48 litres doesn’t tell you much if the external dimensions don’t meet your airline’s requirements.
  • Confusing “hand luggage” with “under-seat hand luggage”: a bag measuring 55 x 35 x 25 cm isn’t the same as a compact cabin bag measuring 40 x 20 x 25 cm.
  • Assuming too much about water resistance: “water resistant” generally means the fabric helps protect against light splashes or brief contact with moisture. It doesn’t guarantee that the contents will stay dry in heavy rain.
  • Overlooking carrying options: handles, a shoulder strap and a trolley sleeve can make a difference at stations and airports.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Dimensions and hand luggage rules

First, check the size allowance for the airline you’re flying with. Under-seat hand luggage needs to fit beneath the seat, while a larger cabin bag usually goes in the overhead locker. Rules vary by ticket type and may change.

A size of 40 x 20 x 25 cm is often used as a guide for a small under-seat bag. The Kono 20L bag in this guide measures exactly that. Even so, it’s a good idea to check the latest requirements for Ryanair, easyJet or your other airline before you travel. The bag’s weight and how the airline measures it may also be relevant.

A travel bag measuring 55 x 35 x 25 cm offers more space, but it won’t necessarily be accepted as free hand luggage by every airline. Remember to include full compartments and any protruding handles when measuring.

2. Capacity and compartments

As well as the litre capacity, consider the usable shape of the main compartment. A wide holdall is ideal for clothes and shoes, while a backpack with several compartments is better for documents, a laptop and accessories.

Useful features include:

  • a main compartment with a sturdy zip;
  • a mesh pocket for small items;
  • a front pocket for your passport, boarding pass or keys;
  • a sleeve to secure the bag to the handle of a travel trolley;
  • a separate laptop compartment in a business backpack.

If you’re looking for a 15.6-inch laptop backpack, check that your laptop will actually fit in the compartment. The 15.6-inch measurement refers to the screen size; a laptop’s external dimensions can vary from one model to another.

3. Material, weight and carrying options

Oxford fabric and polyester are widely used for travel and sports bags. Check that the product information clearly states which materials are used inside and out. A lightweight bag weighing 0.5 to 0.7 kg leaves more room within your baggage allowance.

Think about how you’ll carry it, too. An adjustable shoulder strap is useful over longer distances, while a rear sleeve is handy when you’re travelling with a suitcase. Even with a water-repellent backpack or holdall, don’t assume the zips and seams are completely waterproof.

Recommended travel bags for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Kono 40x20x25 Holdall Cabin Hand Luggage

Kono 40x20x25 Holdall Cabin Hand Luggage

Why it suits this type of traveller: This compact hand luggage bag is designed for short flights, overnight stays or everyday use. It has a capacity of around 20 litres and weighs 0.5 kg according to the product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions are clearly stated as 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Always check the latest requirements for your flight and ticket type.

Key benefits and features

0.5 kg, around 20 litres, two handles, an adjustable shoulder strap and a rear trolley sleeve.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Kono 55x35x25cm Cabin Hand Luggage Holdall 48L

Kono 55x35x25cm Cabin Hand Luggage Holdall 48L

Why it suits this type of traveller: Ideal for travellers who want to pack more clothes or essentials for a weekend or business trip, without taking a large suitcase.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity of around 48 litres is given alongside specific external dimensions: 55 x 35 x 25 cm. This makes it easier to compare the bag with your airline’s rules before you travel.

Key benefits and features

Around 48 litres, weighs 0.7 kg, Oxford outer fabric, mesh pocket, front pocket and three carrying options.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent users
WhereHike 4-pack extra-large capacity moving bags

WhereHike 4-pack extra-large capacity moving bags

Why it suits this type of user: A practical choice for moving house, storage, student rooms or temporarily sorting clothes and household items.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set includes four moving bags with handles, shoulder straps and wheels. This makes them more versatile than ordinary boxes or moving bags without carrying options.

Key benefits and features

Four bags, each measuring 73 x 34 x 37 cm according to the product name, with wheels and several carrying options.

Ideal for: Commuters and business travellers
Urban Flip Cover 15.6 Inch Laptop Backpack

Urban Flip Cover 15.6 Inch Laptop Backpack

Why it suits this type of user: This business backpack is designed for commuting, school and travelling with a laptop. The product name specifies space for a 15.6-inch laptop, several compartments and a luggage strap.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product name describes a water-repellent, scratch-resistant outer material and several compartments. Check the exact laptop and compartment dimensions before buying.

Key benefits and features

Suitable for 15.6-inch laptops, several compartments, water-repellent finish according to the product information and a luggage strap.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about travel bags

Which travel bags can you take as hand luggage?

It depends on the airline, your ticket type and where the bag will be stored. Check both the dimensions and the maximum weight. A common size for an under-seat bag is 40 x 20 x 25 cm, but always check the latest requirements for your flight.

How do I clean a travel bag?

For Oxford or polyester fabric, wiping with a damp cloth is usually the recommended method according to the product information for the Kono bags mentioned here. Don’t use harsh abrasive cleaners, and allow the bag to dry thoroughly. For a laptop backpack or moving bag, always follow the care instructions on the product page.

Is a wheeled weekend bag more convenient than a regular sports bag?

A wheeled bag can be useful when carrying a heavy load or travelling longer distances over flat ground. A regular holdall or sports bag is often lighter and easier to store. Compare the empty weight, carrying straps, wheel construction and how you’ll usually transport the bag.