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Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet and WizzAir can save you tons of money, but only if you avoid those sneaky baggage fees. The right carry-on backpack fits neatly under the seat, keeps your belongings organized, and gets you out the door at no extra cost. Whether you’re heading out for a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure, having a backpack that meets strict airline size limits makes traveling smoother and your wallet happier.
1. Cabin bag under the seat Cabin Max Metz 20 L (Ryanair Focus)
Built specifically around Ryanair’s classic free under-seat dimensions of 40 × 20 × 25 cm, this backpack simplifies packing. The Metz 20L opens like a mini suitcase, making it very easy to organize your clothes and gear without digging a black hole.
Soft sides and compression straps help cinch it into even the tightest waists at the door. At 20 liters you’ll have enough space for a long weekend if you’re smart about what you bring.
This bag works as a free under-seat option on Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet as it is smaller than all their limits.
2. Cabin Max Manhattan 20L Backpack – Free Size Ryanair
The Manhattan 20L sticks to Ryanair’s under-seat model, but ditches the bulky “budget airline” look for something more refined. Perfect if you’re heading straight to a business meeting or exploring a new city without looking like a tourist.
Its slim profile won’t weigh you down all day, and the variety of colors lets you choose something that matches your style. Inside, you’ll find a nice balance of organized pockets and open space for flexibility.
Works seamlessly with multiple carriers, making it a versatile choice for frequent travelers.
3. Xkdoai Underseat Travel Backpack (40 × 20 × 25 cm)
Often selling for less than £20 during sales, the Xkdoai proves you don’t need to spend big to fly smart. Despite its great price, this backpack packs features like a laptop sleeve, toiletry compartments, and compression straps.
The 180-degree opening makes packing and going through airport security incredibly easy: just unzip and lay everything flat. Customer reviews consistently praise its comfort and surprising capacity for true under-seat size.
Built at 40 × 20 × 25cm, it works perfectly as a free bag on Ryanair, easyJet and most economy carriers.
4. Max Svalbard 24L Cabin – Wizz Air Backpack 40 × 30 × 20 cm
Wizz Air Flyers, this one is designed with you in mind. The Svalbard 24L exactly matches Wizz Air’s free carry-on baggage allowance of 40 × 30 × 20 cm, giving you every millimeter of space without the risk of paying boarding fees.
At 24 liters you’ll notice the extra space compared to the smaller 20L Ryanair style bags, perfect for long trips or winter wear. The organized interior includes a laptop sleeve, small item pockets, and even a USB pocket option for charging on the go.
Bonus: it also works perfectly on the new Ryanair and easyJet dimensions too.
5. Max Manhattan 24L Cabin (40 × 30 × 20 cm)
Think of it as the Manhattan 20L’s bigger brother, sized up to 40 × 30 × 20 cm for those who need a little more room to breathe. It looks like a regular city backpack, without screaming “airplane luggage,” which is perfect for blending in wherever you land.
Inside, you’ll find a laptop compartment and smart pockets that help organize your essentials without adding bulk. The additional four liters compared to the 20 L version make a real difference for 2 to 4 day trips.
Free on Wizz Air and Ryanair, and also within the generous limit of easyJet.
6. Flymax CabinFlex 40 × 30 × 20 cm – Wizz Approved Under Seat Bag
Looking for an alternative to Cabin Max that is still designed specifically for low-cost airlines? The Flymax CabinFlex delivers with its clearly labeled, Wizz-approved 40 × 30 × 20 cm dimensions and no-frills design.
Weighing only around 0.5kg, this ultra-lightweight backpack means more of your allotted weight goes towards your actual stuff, not the bag itself. The 24L capacity includes internal organization and a convenient bottle pocket to stay hydrated.
Often discounted and good value, it’s a reliable choice for travelers who value functionality over flash.
7. Cabin Max 24L Metz underseat backpack (40 × 30 × 20 cm)
Did you love the classic Metz 20L but wish it had more room? This 24 L version keeps everything you loved: clamshell opening, practical pockets, simple design and scales it up to the ideal size of 40 × 30 × 20 cm.
Available from retailers like ASOS, it’s a proven model that travelers trust for its simplicity and reliability. The extra space means you can pack for several days without feeling cramped or overloaded.
Works on Wizz Air, Ryanair and easyJet as a free under-seat bag, making it a versatile travel companion.
8. Max Cabin 40 × 30 × 20 (Memphis / Manhattan / Equator X)
Can’t decide on just one style? Cabin Max’s wider 40 × 30 × 20 cm range allows you to choose between sporty, minimalist or hybrid designs without sacrificing respect for dimensions.
The Memphis, Manhattan and Equator X variants all meet the size limits important to Wizz Air and similar carriers. Some are even made from eco-friendly RPET fabric if sustainability is important to you.
Whether you prefer backpacks, totes, or something in between, this line offers flexibility for travelers who care as much about aesthetics as functionality.
9. Cabin Max Memphis 30L Backpack (45 × 36 × 20 cm) – EasyJet Max Free Size
EasyJet travelers enjoy the most generous free baggage allowance among budget airlines, and the Memphis 30L is designed to use every bit of that 45 × 36 × 20 cm space. At 30 liters, it feels like a real carry-on bag, not just a personal item.
The square design maximizes internal space while keeping the bag easy to carry all day. Multiple color options allow you to express your personality while remaining practical.
Great for long weekends or even week-long trips if you’re a light traveler.
10. Cabin Max Travel Hack 30L Hybrid (45 × 36 × 20 cm)
Created with travel blogger The Travel Hack, this innovative 30L hybrid gives you the best of both worlds: carry it like a backpack or roll it like a cart. Designed specifically for easyJet’s 45 × 36 × 20 cm headroom limit, it has become a favorite among city break enthusiasts.
The clever interior layout allows you to store your outfits flat, keeping them tidy and wrinkle-free. It’s practical, stylish, and tested by someone who travels constantly.
Perfect for frequent weekenders who want flexibility without sacrificing style or functionality.
11. Aerolite Cabin Bag 45×36×20 easyJet
Do you prefer something more structured than a soft backpack? Aerolite’s 45 × 36 × 20 cm easyJet range includes hard-shell carry-on luggage and duffel backpack hybrids that fit easily under the seat while maintaining their shape.
Some versions feature TSA locks, tough ABS shells or reinforced handles for added durability. The structured design makes packing easier and protects fragile items better than soft bags.
Because they measure less than 55×40×20, they also work as small carry-on bags on many airlines if you upgrade to Priority.
12. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L – Premium cabin backpack for paid hand luggage
Ready to invest in a backpack that will last for years? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L consistently ranks among the best travel backpacks in terms of comfort, durability, and organization, even though it costs more up front.
Although it is not designed for free limits under the seat, it fits the standard dimensions of airline cabins (approximately 55 × 35 × 22 cm), making it perfect as a paid carry-on bag. The superb harness system keeps you comfortable during long walks and public transport.
Ideal if you sometimes fly budget airlines but also take longer trips elsewhere.