TOP 3 WINGS backpacks that fit within the free carry-on baggage dimensions

A cabin suitcase is not always necessary for a short trip. A well-chosen airplane backpack can hold everything you need for a weekend or city break while fitting under the seat and eliminating the need to purchase larger luggage.

Currently, both Ryanair and Wizz Air allow passengers to bring a small carry-on bag free of charge, with maximum dimensions of 40 × 30 × 20 cm. With Ryanair, it must fit under the seat in front of the passenger, while Wizz Air additionally sets a maximum weight of 10 kg.

We selected three WINGS backpacks that fit within this limit thanks to their dimensions: SKYLARK, CBP002, and TANAGER 2-in-1. Each has a slightly different design, making it suitable for a different way of travelling.

Article at a glance

• Ryanair and Wizz Air allow free luggage up to 40 × 30 × 20 cm.
• SKYLARK is a good choice if you want greater flexibility and extensive features.
• CBP002 is lightweight, has a capacity of 20 l, and includes a laptop compartment.
• TANAGER 2-in-1 can be used both as a backpack and a bag.
• Before your flight, it is worth checking the size of the backpack after packing.

What are the dimensions of free carry-on luggage on Ryanair and Wizz Air?

For both carriers, the current maximum dimensions for small luggage are:

40 × 30 × 20 cm

With Ryanair, such a bag or backpack must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.

Wizz Air also allows passengers to bring one free piece of luggage measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm, which must be placed under the seat. The maximum weight is 10 kg.

This means that one well-chosen cabin backpack can be used when flying with both airlines.

However, it is important to remember that the actual size of the luggage after packing matters. A soft backpack can easily be overfilled, making it deeper or wider than its nominal dimensions indicate.

1. WINGS SKYLARK - spacious backpack with an expansion function

WINGS SKYLARK combines dimensions suitable for small carry-on travel with more capacity than many compact models. In its basic configuration, it measures approximately 40 × 25 × 18 cm, so it fits within the current 40 × 30 × 20 cm limit applicable to Ryanair and Wizz Air.

The backpack offers a capacity of 30.5 l and has a regular design that makes it easier to use the available space. Inside, it includes a compartment for a laptop up to 15.6", while the suitcase frame strap makes it easier to move around with additional luggage.

SKYLARK's distinctive feature is its 6 cm expansion. This is useful when the backpack is used outside the small baggage allowance or after reaching your destination. When flying with free Ryanair or Wizz Air baggage, it is best to keep the backpack in its basic configuration, as its depth may exceed the permitted 20 cm when fully expanded.

Who is SKYLARK best suited for?

SKYLARK will be a good choice for people who want to take one backpack on a short trip but value greater capacity and the option to expand their luggage later. The laptop compartment, chest strap, and suitcase attachment make it well suited both for travel and everyday use.

2. WINGS CBP002 - lightweight 40 × 25 × 20 cm cabin backpack

The WINGS CBP002 measures 40 × 25 × 20 cm, so it fits within the current free baggage limit for Ryanair and Wizz Air. The backpack weighs approximately 0.6 kg and has a capacity of 20 l, leaving a large portion of the permitted space and weight available for your belongings.

Its interior is designed more like travel luggage than a classic urban backpack. The main compartment has straps to help keep clothes and other items in place, while a separate pocket fits a laptop up to 14".

The two side pockets, ventilated back panel, and strap for attaching the backpack to a suitcase frame are also useful. Inside, there is also a waterproof pocket for items that are best kept separate from the rest of the contents.

When is the CBP002 best suited?

This model will be particularly practical for a weekend, city break, or short business trip. Its regular shape makes it easier to use the available space, while its low weight is a major advantage if you want to take only one backpack.

It is also a good option for people travelling with a laptop who want to keep their electronics separate from the main luggage compartment.

3. WINGS TANAGER 2-in-1 - backpack and bag in one

The TANAGER 2-in-1 stands out primarily for its carrying options. It can be used as a classic backpack, but thanks to the additional handles and adjustable strap, it can quickly be converted into a shoulder bag.

The model measures 40 × 25 × 15 cm, has a capacity of approximately 21 l, and weighs around 0.8 kg. This means it remains well below the maximum dimensions of 40 × 30 × 20 cm applicable to free Ryanair and Wizz Air baggage.

The main compartment has straps to secure the contents, while additional pockets help organize smaller items. TANAGER also has an organizer, a front pocket, and a side bottle pocket.

At the back, there is a strap for attaching the backpack to a suitcase frame, while the ventilated back panel improves comfort during longer periods of carrying.

Who is TANAGER 2-in-1 for?

TANAGER will be an interesting choice for people who want one bag with two carrying options. At the airport, it can be used as a backpack, and once you arrive, it can be converted into a bag.

Its 15 cm depth also leaves more clearance within the airline’s limit than models using the full 20 cm.

SKYLARK, CBP002 or TANAGER - which backpack should you choose for air travel?

All three models fit within the small cabin baggage allowance, but they differ in how they are organized and used.

SKYLARK will be the most versatile choice for people who also want to use the backpack outside of travel.

CBP002 focuses primarily on low weight, a simple travel design, and space for a laptop.

TANAGER 2-in-1 stands out for its ability to quickly transform from a backpack into a bag, as well as its compact dimensions of 40 × 25 × 15 cm.

There is therefore no single best model for everyone. It is worth choosing a backpack based on what you most often take with you and how you intend to use it after arrival.

Ryanair backpack - what should you look for?

For a Ryanair backpack, the 40 × 30 × 20 cm limit is the most important. The bag must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.

In practice, backpacks with a regular shape work well because they allow you to use the available space without creating large bulges.

If the backpack is exactly 20 cm deep, it is best not to pack it “to the brim”. Soft material can expand and make the actual dimensions larger.

Wizz Air backpack - can it be the same as for Ryanair?

Yes. Wizz Air’s current free allowance is also 40 × 30 × 20 cm, so one model can serve as both a Wizz Air backpack and a Ryanair backpack.

With Wizz Air, you also need to remember the 10 kg weight limit. With a backpack of limited capacity, it is usually easier to stay within the limit, but electronics and heavy accessories can quickly increase the weight of the entire bag.

How much can you pack in a 40 × 30 × 20 cm backpack?

Such a backpack can be enough for 2-3 days, especially during the warmer months or when packing minimally.

The most space can be saved by limiting the number of extra shoes, using toiletries in small containers, and choosing clothes that can be easily combined.

The backpack’s construction also matters. Models with a regular shape and a wide-opening compartment usually make better use of space than classic city backpacks with a tapered top.

Why is a backpack suitable as free carry-on baggage?

The backpack’s greatest advantage is its versatility.

After leaving the plane, you are not left with a small suitcase that you have to pull through the entire city. You can take a backpack on public transport, for a walk, sightseeing, or a short trip.

The soft design also provides greater flexibility when packing, although it requires checking the dimensions once full.

That is why a 40 × 30 × 20 cm cabin backpack is a particularly good solution for people who travel light and want to limit their baggage to one item.

The most common mistakes when choosing a backpack as free baggage

The most common mistake is looking only at capacity in litres. Its dimensions are what primarily determine whether baggage meets the carrier’s requirements.

Another problem is overpacking soft backpacks. A model with the correct dimensions when empty may exceed the limit once packed.

It is also worth paying attention to the external pockets. If they are heavily packed, they increase the backpack’s actual depth.

FAQ - Backpacks as free carry-on baggage

What backpack dimensions are free on Ryanair?

Ryanair currently allows passengers to bring one small personal bag with maximum dimensions of 40 × 30 × 20 cm. It must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.

What backpack dimensions are free on Wizz Air?

Wizz Air allows passengers to bring baggage free of charge measuring up to 40 × 30 × 20 cm and weighing up to 10 kg. The backpack must be placed under the seat.

Can one backpack meet the requirements of Ryanair and Wizz Air?

Yes. Since both airlines currently apply a 40 × 30 × 20 cm limit for small baggage, one appropriately chosen backpack can be used with both carriers.

Does CBP002 fit within Ryanair’s and Wizz Air’s free baggage limits?

Yes. CBP002 measures 40 × 25 × 20 cm, so it fits within the 40 × 30 × 20 cm limit for both airlines.

Can the TANAGER 2-in-1 be taken as free baggage?

Yes. TANAGER measures 40 × 25 × 15 cm, so it remains below the maximum small-baggage limit for Ryanair and Wizz Air.

Is a 40 × 30 × 20 cm backpack enough for a weekend?

For many people, yes. With sensible packing, such a backpack can hold clothes, toiletries, and the basic accessories needed for 2-3 days.

Which backpack should you choose as free carry-on baggage?

What matters most is not which model has the most features, but whether it suits the way you travel.

If you want a lightweight design and space for a laptop, CBP002 is a good choice. If you value the option to change how you carry it, it is worth considering the TANAGER 2-in-1. SKYLARK, on the other hand, is a good fit when you want one backpack to serve both during travel and in everyday life.

In every case, it is worth checking the packed backpack’s dimensions and the carrier’s current rules before flying. This way, small luggage will truly remain free carry-on baggage.