Choosing the right carry-on backpack today is not just about design or capacity. If you fly with both low-cost and traditional airlines, you mainly have to consider dimensions. Each airline has different rules – and a poorly chosen backpack can cost you an unpleasant extra fee right at the gate.
What is a carry-on backpack?
A carry-on backpack is a backpack you take with you onto the airplane. Ideally, it fits:
- under the seat in front of you (personal item),
- or in the overhead compartment (cabin baggage).
The difference between these two categories is crucial – and each airline defines it slightly differently.
Personal item vs. cabin baggage
Most airlines today distinguish between:
- Personal item – smaller luggage free of charge,
- Cabin baggage – larger luggage, often for an extra fee.
A smaller backpack that meets the personal item limits is therefore ideal for short trips.
Backpack dimensions by airlines (2026)
Ryanair
- Personal item: 40 × 20 × 25 cm
- Cabin baggage: 55 × 40 × 20 cm (for an extra fee)
Wizz Air
- Personal item: 40 × 30 × 20 cm
- Cabin baggage: 55 × 40 × 23 cm (WIZZ Priority)
easyJet
- Personal item: 45 × 36 × 20 cm
- Cabin baggage: 56 × 45 × 25 cm
Lufthansa
- Cabin baggage: 55 × 40 × 23 cm
- Smaller personal bag additionally: 40 × 30 × 10 cm
Smartwings
- Cabin baggage: 55 × 40 × 23 cm
- Smaller personal bag depending on the fare
Dimensions may vary slightly depending on the fare – it is always worth checking them before the trip.
Which backpack will pass at most airlines
If you want a backpack that will pass without extra fees, look for dimensions approximately:
- up to 45 × 30 × 20 cm
- capacity around 18–22 litres
Such a backpack usually meets the personal item conditions at most low-cost airlines.
Why a backpack is better than a suitcase
A carry-on backpack has several advantages over a suitcase:
- easier handling during transfers,
- better use of space,
- comfortable carrying around the town,
- greater flexibility when checking dimensions.
A backpack often “adapts” to space better than a rigid suitcase.
What to watch out for when choosing
- sturdy but not overly heavy construction,
- possibility to tighten or reduce volume,
- separate pocket for a laptop,
- durable material that can withstand travel.
Ideal carry-on backpack for short trips
If you often fly for weekends or short work trips, it pays to invest in a backpack that:
- passes as a personal item,
- can handle weekend packing,
- can be used in the town after arrival.
This is exactly the intended use for city and travel backpacks with a capacity around 20 litres.
Minato Lite – backpack suitable as carry-on and personal item