Choosing and packing your carry-on luggage is one of the most important tasks when traveling, and it can determine the comfort and smoothness of your trip. Different airlines have different rules regarding free carry-on luggage, so it's important to be aware of these rules. In this guide, we'll review the carry-on luggage rules of the largest budget and traditional airlines, and introduce you to some of our favorite travel bags and cabin suitcases.
Free hand luggage rules
Airlines with wooden seats
Low-cost airlines, also known as discount airlines, are airlines that offer lower prices to passengers by minimizing traditional services and amenities. These airlines typically have stricter baggage rules and fewer complimentary onboard services than traditional airlines.
Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air are popular with budget-conscious travelers as they offer cost-effective travel within Europe and other regions. In order to get lower fares, passengers often have to pay extra for amenities such as in-flight meals, priority boarding or carrying larger luggage. However, low-cost flights are a great option for short-haul trips and spontaneous excursions.
Ryanair hand luggage rules
On Ryanair flights, passengers can take one small piece of hand luggage on board for free, with a maximum size of 40x20x25 cm. Larger bags will incur an additional charge. For those who wish to carry more hand luggage, for an additional fee, it is possible to take one larger piece of hand luggage (55x40x20 cm) and one smaller bag into the cabin.
Ryanair hand luggage size: maximum 40x20x25 cm and 10 kg.
Ryanair extra large hand luggage: maximum size 55x40x20 cm and 10 kg.
Wizz Air hand luggage rules
According to Wizz Air's free hand baggage policy, each passenger is allowed to carry one small piece of hand baggage free of charge, with a maximum size of 40x30x20 cm. Passengers who wish to carry more baggage can opt for WIZZ Priority, which allows them to carry a larger piece of cabin baggage (55x40x23 cm) and a smaller bag.
Wizz Air hand luggage size: maximum 40x30x20 cm and 10 kg.
Wizz Air extra cabin baggage: maximum size 55x40x23 cm and 10 kg.
Traditional airlines
Traditional airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways and Air France offer passengers a full range of services, including free checked baggage, in-flight meals and drinks, and comfortable seats. These airlines often have a wider network and offer direct flights to more destinations, including long-haul international routes.
They offer passengers a higher level of comfort and service, including in-flight entertainment systems, seats with extra legroom, and premium travel classes such as business and first class. Traditional airlines are an ideal choice for those planning longer trips or who value a wide range of amenities and services during their flight.
Of course, these airlines also have tickets that allow you to check in no luggage, but you can take hand luggage into the cabin for free , so it's worth checking out these airlines for shorter trips.
Current options for a few well-known airlines:
Lufthansa
On Lufthansa flights, passengers are allowed to take one piece of hand luggage and one carry-on bag with a maximum size of 55x40x23 cm and a maximum weight of 8 kg. Business and first class passengers are allowed to take two pieces of hand luggage with the same dimensions and weight restrictions.
Lufthansa hand luggage size: maximum 55x40x23 cm and 8 kg.
Lufthansa handbag size: maximum 40x30x10 cm.
British Airways
British Airways allows passengers to take one piece of hand luggage and one small personal bag on board free of charge. The maximum weight of hand luggage is 23 kg. It is worth checking with each flight before departure, as sometimes cabin luggage can only fit in the hold.
British Airways hand luggage size: maximum 56x45x25 cm and 23 kg.
British Airways hand bag size: maximum 40x30x15 cm and 23 kg.
Air France
As with many other airlines, the type of ticket determines whether you can check in more luggage in addition to your hand luggage. Air France's economy class ticket (Economy Light) allows you to take 1 piece of hand luggage and 1 personal item.
Air France hand luggage size: maximum 55 x 35 x 25 cm and 12 kg.
easyJet
On easyJet flights, passengers are allowed to take one piece of hand luggage, measuring up to 45x36x20 cm. Passengers on easyJet Plus, FLEXI fares and those who have added a large hand luggage item to their booking are also allowed to take one larger piece of hand luggage (56x45x25 cm).
easyJet hand luggage size: maximum 45x36x20 cm and 15 kg.
easyJet large hand luggage size: maximum 56x45x25 cm and 15 kg.
As we can see, each company has different options and regulations, so before traveling, it is worth checking the website of the given airline to see what size and amount of luggage we can take with us!
Our favorite travel bags and backpacks
Bontour Air travel bag Ryanair and Wizzair cabin bag 40x25x20 cm blue
This blue Bontour Air travel bag is the perfect choice for Ryanair and Wizzair flights, thanks to its compact size (40x25x20 cm). Practical and lightweight, ideal for traveling according to hand luggage regulations.
Bontour Air travel bag Wizzair cabin bag 40x30x20 cm black
The black Bontour Air travel bag is specifically designed to fit the dimensions of the Wizzair cabin bag (40x30x20 cm). It is made of stylish and durable material that safely stores the items you need during your trip.
BONTOUR FlexiGo Expandable Travel Backpack Wizzair size 40x30x20 cm in red
This red Bontour Air travel backpack is an ideal choice for Wizzair passengers as it fits exactly the airline's hand luggage dimensions (40x30x20 cm). It is comfortable to wear and provides enough space for your essentials.
Our favorite cabin suitcases
Bontour CabinOne cabin suitcase 40x30x20 cm free carry-on on Wizzair flights antique gray
This antique grey Bontour CabinOne cabin suitcase can be checked in free of charge on Wizzair flights as it exactly matches the airline's hand luggage dimensions (40x30x20 cm). Elegant and durable, it is ideal for short trips.
Bontour CabinOne cabin suitcase, free of charge on Wizzair flights, RoseGold 40x30x20 cm
This red Bontour CabinOne cabin suitcase can also be carried free of charge on Wizzair flights, thanks to its dimensions of 40x30x20 cm. Its vibrant color and practical design make it the perfect travel companion.
Bontour CabinOne cabin suitcase, free of charge for Wizzair flights, blue color, 40x30x20 cm
The blue Bontour CabinOne cabin suitcase is not only stylish, but also complies with Wizzair's hand luggage regulations (40x30x20 cm), so it can be taken on board free of charge. A compact and reliable travel accessory.
Larger cabin bags that can be carried free of charge on some airlines, e.g. Lufthansa, British Airways
Bontour Charm 4-wheel cabin suitcase size S lemon green
Bontour City 4-wheel cabin suitcase 55x38x20 cm brown
BONTOUR "Clasic" 4 Wheel Cabin Suitcase 55x39x20cm Grey
This grey 4-wheel cabin suitcase, measuring 55x39x20 cm, can be carried free of charge on Lufthansa and British Airways flights. In addition to its color and design, its durability and spacious interior are also noteworthy.
Tips for practical packing of hand luggage
- Plan ahead : Write a list of things you want to bring with you and try to minimize unnecessary items.
- Organization : Use packing cubes or bags to organize clothes and other items, making it easier to find what you need.
- Choose versatile items : Choose clothing and accessories that can be worn in multiple ways.
- Small but useful items : Using small toiletries and travel-sized cosmetics saves space.
- Don't forget your electronics : Make sure you bring all the necessary chargers and cables.
We hope this compilation has helped you plan your flight!
Before traveling, be sure to check the current baggage policy of your chosen airline to avoid unpleasant surprises!
