What can you take with you in your carry-on luggage?

Carry-on luggage is the most convenient solution for short trips, but only if it is packed properly and complies with the carrier’s rules. What you can take on board depends not only on the type of items but also on the dimensions of the bag or suitcase and the regulations of the specific airline. W practice, three factors are most important: the size of the luggage, the type of items being carried, and how they are packed. Ryanair and Wizz Air allow one small bag measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm free of charge, which must fit under the seat.

Product overview

• You can pack many everyday items W your carry-on luggage, but you must follow the carrier’s rules.
• First, check the dimensions and weight of your luggage, and only then plan what to pack.
• Ryanair and Wizz Air allow one small bag measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm free of charge (as of June 2026).
• Well-packed carry-on luggage should be lightweight, organized, and easy to inspect at the airport.

Where should you start when packing your carry-on luggage?

First, you need to check the airline’s rules. They determine the size and weight of your carry-on luggage, as well as whether the basic fare includes only one small bag or also a larger carry-on suitcase. W Ryanair, all fares include one small personal bag measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm, and a larger carry-on bag is only included with the Priority option. Wizz Air also allows one bag measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm and weighing up to 10 kg free of charge, while a larger trolley bag measuring 55 × 40 × 23 cm is only available with WIZZ Priority.

Only after checking these limits should you decide what will actually fit in your suitcase or bag. This is important because with carry-on luggage, it’s not just about capacity, but also whether the bag retains its shape after packing and fits easily into the carry-on gauge. Ryanair and Wizz Air clearly state that the free carry-on must fit under the seat.

What can you bring in your carry-on luggage?

It’s best to pack your most important items and those you want to have on hand throughout your trip in your carry-on luggage. These usually include:

• documents,
• phone and charger,
• wallet,
• laptop or tablet,
• basic cosmetics,
• leki,
• headphones,
• a light sweatshirt or scarf,
• small items needed during a flight.

These are exactly the kinds of items that work best on board, because you need them quickly and it’s not worth stowing them away in your larger luggage.

Can you carry cosmetics in your carry-on luggage?

Yes, but you need to keep the rules regarding liquids in mind. Many airports still enforce the standard airport rule, which states that liquids in carry-on luggage must be in containers of up to 100 ml, and everything must fit into a single transparent, resealable bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. This applies to, among other things, shampoos, gels, creams, perfumes, and toothpaste.

W practice, it’s best to bring travel-size toiletries or transfer them into small travel containers. This makes it easier to avoid issues at security checkpoints and helps you make better use of space in your carry-on or under-seat bag.

What about transporting alcohol?

You may only bring beverages purchased in the duty-free zone on board the aircraft. This also applies to alcohol. Regarding restrictions, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the rules for importing alcohol into your destination country. You should therefore check whether the laws of the country you are traveling to prohibit the import of alcohol to avoid problems and unpleasant situations. General rules regarding alcohol apply to:

• concentrations ranging from 24% to 70% by volume;
• the requirement to transport alcohol in its original packaging;
• up to 5 liters per person.

This applies, of course, to checked luggage. W carry-on luggage, you may transport alcohol in small 100-ml bottles, provided it was purchased in the duty-free zone.

Can you carry electronics in your carry-on luggage?

Yes. Laptops, tablets, phones, headphones, chargers, and other electronic devices should generally be packed in your carry-on luggage rather than checked luggage. It’s more convenient and safer.

It’s good to have your electronics easily accessible during security checks. That’s why it’s best not to pack them at the very bottom of your luggage, but rather in a separate pocket or near the zipper. This speeds up the process at the airport and reduces the hassle of unpacking your belongings.

What are the best items to pack in a small 40 × 30 × 20 cm suitcase?

With the free baggage allowance on Ryanair and Wizz Air, smart packing is key. A bag or small suitcase like this works best for a very short trip, a city break, or a 1–2 day business trip. W practice, it usually fits:

• 1–2 sets of clothes,
• underwear and socks,
• small cosmetic bag,
• documents,
• laptop or tablet,
• charger,
• small travel accessories.

That’s why, with such a limit, compact bags, small carry-on suitcases, and backpacks with well-organized interiors work particularly well.

How should you pack your carry-on luggage to avoid problems at the airport?

It’s best to follow a simple plan:

• Check your airline’s policies first,
• Choose luggage that meets the size requirements,
• Pack only the essentials,
• Keep your cosmetics and electronics within easy reach,
• Do not stuff the bag beyond its shape.

This ensures that your luggage will not only comply with regulations but will also be more convenient for everyday use. With the free size limit of 40 × 30 × 20 cm, it is particularly important that the bag, once packed, still fits under the seat and does not exceed the permitted dimensions.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What can you bring in your carry-on luggage?

Most often, documents, electronics, a small toiletries bag, medications, a change of clothes, and small items needed during the flight. Ultimately, the carrier’s rules always apply.

Can you carry cosmetics in your carry-on luggage?

Yes, but keep in mind that liquid cosmetics must be in containers of up to 100 ml and fit into a single transparent bag of up to 1 liter.

What is Ryanair’s free carry-on baggage allowance?

Ryanair allows you to bring one small personal bag ( 40 × 30 × 20 cm) for free, which must fit under the seat.

What is the free carry-on allowance on Wizz Air?

Wizz Air allows one bag measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm and weighing up to 10 kg free of charge, which must also fit under the seat.

Summary

Carry-on luggage offers great convenience, but only if it complies with airline regulations and is packed sensibly. The most important factors are the dimensions, the type of items you’re carrying, and how organized the inside of your bag or suitcase is. If you check the carrier’s limits in advance, choose the right model, and pack only what you really need, you’ll more easily avoid stress and problems at the airport. Ryanair and Wizz Air still limit free carry-on to one small bag measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm, so good planning is essential for such trips.

See also: How to pack a suitcase? A practical step-by-step guide