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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
The dimensions are clearly stated as 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Always check the latest requirements for your flight and ticket type.
0.5 kg, around 20 litres, two handles, an adjustable shoulder strap and a rear trolley sleeve.
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.
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.
Around 48 litres, weighs 0.7 kg, Oxford outer fabric, mesh pocket, front pocket and three carrying options.
Why it suits this type of user: A practical choice for moving house, storage, student rooms or temporarily sorting clothes and household items.
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.
Four bags, each measuring 73 x 34 x 37 cm according to the product name, with wheels and several carrying options.
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.
The product name describes a water-repellent, scratch-resistant outer material and several compartments. Check the exact laptop and compartment dimensions before buying.
Suitable for 15.6-inch laptops, several compartments, water-repellent finish according to the product information and a luggage strap.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
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.
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.
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.