Travel bag dimensions: complete guide + size chart
- · Updated on , by Miquell Hellings
- 6 min read
Flying soon with hand luggage only? Then you want to be sure your travel bag fits within the permitted dimensions, so you can board without stress or extra costs. Below, you will find the most common sizes, an overview by airline and practical tips for packing smartly. Rules can change, so always check your airline's conditions shortly before departure.
Hand luggage dimensions at a glance
The most common formats are divided into two categories. For the personal item that must fit under the seat, many airlines use dimensions of around 40 x 30 x 20 cm. For the larger cabin bag in the overhead compartment, you often see 55 x 40 x 20-25 cm. The IATA guideline for hand luggage is 55 x 35 x 20 cm, a safe choice for many flights. Please note that dimensions are measured including handles and wheels, and that weight limits vary by airline. Looking for a soft bag that stays within 40 x 30 x 20 cm? View the 40 x 30 x 20 hand luggage bags. Prefer a hard-shell or hybrid option within 55 x 40 x 20-25 cm? Choose a compact cabin suitcase. Want all standard sizes and rules in one place? Read the complete guide to hand luggage dimensions.
Dimensions by airline
The size table below provides a practical starting point. Use it as an indication and always check the current requirements on your airline's website.
| Airline | Personal item - under the seat | Cabin baggage - overhead compartment | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transavia | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 25 cm | Up to approx. 10 kg |
| Ryanair | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm (Priority) | Up to approx. 10 kg |
| KLM (Economy) | 40 x 30 x 15 cm | 55 x 35 x 25 cm | Up to approx. 12 kg in total |
| SWISS | 40 x 30 x 10 cm | 55 x 40 x 23 cm | Up to approx. 8 kg |
| Wizz Air | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 23 cm (Priority) | Up to approx. 10 kg |
| Corendon | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 25 cm | Up to approx. 10 kg |
If you are travelling with several airlines during one trip or have a Basic/Light ticket, your cabin baggage allowance may differ. Where necessary, book cabin baggage or Priority in advance to avoid high fees at the gate. Prefer rolling your bag instead of carrying it? Choose a compact travel bag with wheels.
Flying with Ryanair? View the Ryanair hand luggage dimensions and rules for the latest requirements.
How heavy can your hand luggage be?
The permitted weight usually ranges from 7 to 12 kg, with exceptions of up to 15 kg. Budget airlines often allow 10 kg for larger cabin baggage and have no strict weight limit for the small item, as long as you can lift it yourself. Traditional airlines often apply a total weight limit for hand luggage plus an accessory. Weigh your bag at home and move heavy items to your jacket pockets or laptop bag if the airline allows an accessory.
Choose smartly: sizes that work well
With a travel bag that fits precisely within the most requested dimensions, you can travel worry-free. These ByMetz options meet popular requirements and offer extra functionality:
- Travel bag 40 x 30 x 20 cm - Fits under the seat with airlines including Transavia, TUI, Wizz Air, Vueling and Corendon. Reinforced base, several compartments and a smart sleeve for attaching it to a trolley.
- Expandable laptop bag 40 x 30 x 15 - 40 x 30 x 20 cm - Compact enough to use as a KLM accessory, and expandable to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. With a reinforced laptop compartment for laptops up to 15,6 inches.
- Hand luggage backpack 55 x 40 x 20 - 25 cm - Meets many cabin baggage requirements and expands to 55 x 40 x 25 cm. With a padded laptop compartment for laptops up to 18,3 inches and a smart sleeve.
ByMetz bags are made from lightweight and durable 600D polyester with metal finishes and are shipped insured.
For a little more space on short trips, weekend bags, typically 30-50L, are a good choice.
Want to view all options in one overview? Go to the hand luggage travel bag collection.
Liquids and sharp objects in your travel bag
For liquids, the usual rule in Europe is: a maximum of 1 litre per person, packed in a transparent bag, with individual containers of no more than 100 ml. Exceptions include medicines, baby food and duty-free purchases with a sealed receipt. Present liquids separately at security. Bottles and flasks must be empty when going through security, and you can refill them afterwards. Sharp or pointed objects do not belong in the cabin. Always check the current rules of your departure and arrival airport.
Packing tips to stay within the dimensions
- Roll your clothes and use packing cubes for a more efficient layout and better use of space.
- Place heavy items at the bottom and close to your back in backpacks for better carrying comfort.
- Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket while boarding.
- Use all outer pockets wisely, but make sure your bag does not exceed the permitted dimensions.
- Weigh your bag at home and test whether it fits smoothly into a sizer.
- Take an empty drinking bottle with you and fill it after security.
Frequently asked questions
How big should a travel bag be?
If you want to travel without booking extra baggage, aim for 40 x 30 x 20 cm as a personal item under the seat. Need more space? Choose 55 x 40 x 20-25 cm and book cabin baggage or Priority if required by your airline.
What are the dimensions of a travel bag on Transavia?
Transavia allows 40 x 30 x 20 cm for the item under the seat. For additional cabin baggage, the limit is 55 x 40 x 25 cm, usually up to 10 kg. Check your ticket type, as allowances differ by fare. Read the Transavia hand luggage dimensions and rules for details.
What are the hand luggage dimensions for SWISS?
With SWISS, the standard cabin baggage size is 55 x 40 x 23 cm, with a weight limit of approximately 8 kg. A small personal item of around 40 x 30 x 10 cm is permitted. Check with SWISS for the latest requirements.
Is 40 x 30 x 20 cm a small suitcase?
Yes, 40 x 30 x 20 cm falls within the personal item size that fits under the aircraft seat with many airlines. It is ideal for short trips and often helps you avoid extra costs on board. See also the overview of airline rules for 40 x 30 x 20.