What fits in 40x30x20 hand luggage? Contents, rules, tips
- · Updated on , by Miquell Hellings
- 4 min read
Travelling with just a 40x30x20 cm underseat bag means choosing speed, convenience and often zero extra costs. This size fits under the seat and holds about 24 litres. Here you'll find exactly what fits in 40x30x20, what to watch out for with different airlines and how to pack smartly so you can bring everything you need.
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What does 40x30x20 mean and how many litres is that?
The size 40x30x20 stands for length x width x height and works out at about 24 litres. This is the typical underseat size, also known as an underseater. Always measure including the parts that stick out, such as handles, zips and wheels. Soft bags sometimes give you a little extra room, hard suitcases don't. If your bag fits under the seat, you avoid hassle when boarding and don't have to hunt for space in the overhead lockers.
What fits inside? Sample contents for 24 litres
- Clothing: 2 shirts, 1 jumper or cardigan, 1 pair of trousers or a skirt, 2-3 sets of underwear and socks.
- Toiletry bag: 1-litre bag of liquids, basic toiletries, medication.
- Electronics: 15.6 inch laptop or tablet, compact chargers, cables, e-reader.
- Other: foldable tote, small umbrella, snacks, passport and travel documents.
Tip: wear your heaviest and bulkiest items while you travel, such as trainers, jeans and a jacket. Use packing cubes to save space and keep your liquids and electronics within easy reach for security.
Hand luggage rules per airline at a glance
Rules differ by airline and ticket type. Below is a guide for the underseat item. Always check your airline's current terms.
| Airline | Underseat size | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40x30x20 cm | Free small personal bag. 10 kg cabin bag 55x40x20 only with Priority or for a fee. |
| Transavia | 40x30x20 cm | 1 small item free under the seat. Larger cabin baggage for a fee. |
| Wizz Air | 40x30x20 cm | Free small bag. Larger cabin baggage possible for a fee or with a higher fare. |
| easyJet | 45x36x20 cm | Our 40x30x20 fits as a small cabin bag. A larger cabin bag is paid or part of a bundle. |
| Vueling | 40x30x20 cm | 40x30x20 is perfect as a free underseat bag. |
See also the full overview: Airline rules 40x30x20: overview.
Smart packing for 40x30x20
- Roll your clothes tightly and fill empty spaces in shoes or corners.
- Put heavy items at the bottom and close to your back if you use a backpack.
- Use packing cubes or zip bags to group outfits and swap them quickly.
- Keep liquids to a minimum and take solid versions where you can.
- Put documents and electronics in a front pocket for quick security checks.
How strict are airlines at the gate?
Checks vary by airport, flight and airline. Budget airlines check size and number of items strictly more often. Make sure your bag really is 40x30x20, isn't bulging and slides easily into a sizer. Not sure whether you need more? Book a larger cabin item in good time.
Which bag should you choose: backpack, travel bag or underseater?
A 40x30x20 backpack is comfortable to carry and often has a padded 15.6 inch laptop compartment and a smart sleeve to slide over a trolley handle. A rectangular duffel makes the most of the interior space and slides easily under the seat. A travel bag offers plenty of volume in a flexible shape and is just as easy to place under the seat. ByMetz bags are made of water-repellent 600D polyester, with a reinforced base, smart compartments and ergonomic carrying options for intensive use.
Go straight to the collection: Hand luggage 40x30x20
Frequently asked questions
Does a 40x30x20 cm bag fit under an aircraft seat?
Yes. This is exactly the underseat size at many airlines. Check the actual outer dimensions including zips and handles, and don't overstuff it. That way your bag slides smoothly under the seat and you avoid hassle when boarding.
Is a 40x30x20 cm Transavia hand luggage trolley free?
Yes, one small item of 40x30x20 cm travels free and goes under the seat. That can be a travel bag, a backpack or a trolley with wheels, as long as the outer dimensions are right. An extra or larger cabin item is something you book for a fee.
What are Ryanair's hand luggage sizes?
Ryanair uses fixed categories: free small personal bag 40x30x20 cm, 10 kg cabin bag 55x40x20 cm, 20 kg check-in bag up to 80x120x120 cm and 23 kg check-in bag up to 80x120x120 cm. Always use the right size for each type of baggage and don't mix the categories. See also: Ryanair hand luggage: dimensions and rules.
Does a 15.6 inch laptop fit in 40x30x20 hand luggage?
Most 40x30x20 backpacks fit a 15.6 inch laptop in a padded compartment. Check the inside dimensions of the compartment and preferably use a sleeve. With hard cases, allow for the extra thickness so your bag doesn't go over 20 cm.