Flying with hand luggage only: rules, sizes and savings

Travelling with only carry-on is the simplest way to fly cheaper and faster: no checked-bag fees, no waiting at the belt.

Sizes vary per airline

There's no universal size. Roughly:

• Large cabin bag (trolley): often ~55 × 40 × 20 cm, but budget airlines charge extra for it.
• Small bag (under the seat): usually free, ~40 × 20 × 25 cm.

Always check your airline's exact size before booking.

The trap: "cheap" ticket, pricey bag

With Ryanair, Wizz and easyJet a large trolley is often a paid extra. Always compare the total price including baggage — Flights does this automatically per airline.

FAQ

Can a power bank go in hand luggage?

Yes — power banks must be in your cabin bag, not the hold.