Cabin Bags and Luggage

Many airlines charge extra if you want to check a full size suitcase into the hold. There will be additional waiting time at your destination whilst you wait for the plane to be unloaded. Your bags will need to arrive on the carousel for you to claim. There is the risk that not only may the airline damage your suitcase but lose it entirely. Save money, time, and stress by using a cabin bag.

Although it depends on each individual airline you are travelling with, many offer generous weight allowances for cabin cases. If you are a family, then each family member has an allowance and can take a cabin bag each.

We travelled to Italy using only lightweight luggage. Our children were too small to carry their case on their own, but we were able to pack enough in four bags. The children used kids pull along trolley cases, and we were able to carry them for them as needed.

We have selected a range of luggage that would be the perfect travel companion. Please check with your airline to make sure they are compatible with their rules. Make sure you stay up-to-date as these rules do change frequently.

Aerolite Lightweight Polycarbonate Hard Shell 4 Wheel Hand Cabin Luggage Suitcase, Carnival
Price: £34.99
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  • AMAZING AIRLINE COMPATIBILITY: At Aerolite, we understand that travellers may fly with many different airlines throughout their lifetime. That's why we designed this cabin case so it is accepted on the vast majority of airlines throughout the UK, Europe and North America. Including Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, Delta, Flybe, Lufthansa, Norwegian, Jet2, KLM, Wizz Air and Virgin Atlantic to name just a few!21" Dimensions: 55x35x20cm (All Parts), 49x35x20cm (Body), Weight: 2.2kg, Capacity: 35L
  • TAKE THE STRAIN OUT OF TRAVEL: Just getting to and from your final destination can be frustrating enough - your luggage shouldn't add to that stress. This stylish cabin case features 4 spinner wheels, providing a full 360 degrees of manoeuvrability and allowing the suitcase to roll along comfortably alongside you, eliminating the strain of pushing or towing. With a height-adjustable retractable handle there's no need to strain your back; and you can even place small bags and essentials on top.
  • BECAUSE YOUR LUGGAGE IS WORTH PROTECTING: Lightweight and strong polycarbonate hard shell protection with colourful carnival print. It also includes a 3-digit combination barrel padlock to lock the zips together for added security.
  • IDEAL STORAGE SPACE: Transporting as many necessities as possible with as little inconvenience as possible is the name of the game for any flight. The interior features packing straps to hold your clothes in place, as well as two elasticated shoe pockets, a zipped divider pocket for anything you want to keep separate, and mesh pockets for your documents.
  • OUTSTANDING 5 YEAR WARRANTY: Aerolite pride themselves on the quality and durability of their hard-shell cabin luggage cases; so much so that they offer a 5-year warranty replacement service covering all manufacturing defects - so you can buy with absolute confidence!
Slimbridge Cabin Bag / Hand Luggage, Super Lightweight
Price: £19.99
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  • CABIN APPROVED WITH MOST AIRLINES: We believe that travellers may fly with many different airlines throughout their lifetime. That's why we designed this super lightweight 2-wheel cabin suitcase so it is accepted on the vast majority of airlines throughout the UK, USA and Europe, including Ryanair, EasyJet, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Flybe, Lufthansa, Norwegian, Jet2, KLM, Air France, Wizz Air and many more. Size 55 x 35 x 20 cm (all parts included), weight 2.3 kg, capacity 31 L
  • DURABLE WHEELS FOR STRESS FREE TRIP - Getting to and from your holiday destination can be a stressful journey. This stylish carry-on hand luggage case features two smooth rolling wheels making this ultra light flight bag stable, secure and reliable. The reliable skate wheels will make your journey great and your trip pleasant and enjoyable, and you can even place small bags and travel essentials on top.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION - This luggage case is made from durable polyester material which is lightweight and strong to withstand the rigours of modern transport. It will protect your contents from water, drinks, rain and other liquids during travel. The soft shell is tough and impact resistant.
  • PERFECT FOR ULTIMATE ORGANISATION - The interior features elastic packing belts on one side and zip compartment on the other side, perfect for ties, underwear, socks, documents, laptop and other essentials, to keep the contents of your luggage in place during the flight and transit. The sturdy telescoping handle will make your journey pleasant, comfortable and safe.
  • EXCEPTIONAL 3 YEAR WARRANTY: Slimbridge pride themselves on the durability, robustness and quality workmanship of their popular soft and hard luggage cases, so much so that they offer a 3-year warranty replacement service covering all manufacturing defects - so you can buy with complete confidence and peace of mind.
American Tourister - Disney Wavebreaker, Children's Cabin Luggage, Red
Price: £85.11
You save: £29.89 (26%) (26 %)
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  • Cross ribbons, zipped divider and apron pocket allow easy storing
  • Playful, 360-degree Mickey and Donald prints on a classic comics-themed background
  • Textured surface protects against scratches
Antler Juno II Brights Cabin Suitcase Pink , Size: 55 x 40 x 20
Price: £145.00
You save: £10.09 (7%) (7 %)
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  • Stylish Juno II Brights Collection: Get yourself in holiday mode with the Antler Juno II Brights range, inspired by the sunshine hues of the tropics to add some colour to your luggage collection.
  • Cabin-Size Hard Shell Case: The tough hard shell exterior makes our Juno II Brights carry-on bag virtually indestructible. The cabin version measures 55 x 40 x 20 cm and holds 39 litres, perfect for hand luggage.
  • Top Features: Self-healing coil zips, flexible carry handles on two sides, a multi-height locking handle, ID holder, compression straps and 360° spinner wheels.
  • Strong yet Lightweight: Made from durable yet extremely light polypropylene that’s easy to carry, flexible, strong and resistant to cracks and scratches.
  • TSA-Approved Lock: For added security, we’ve included a built-in TSA-approved combination lock.
Aerolite Super Lightweight Hard Shell Carry On Cabin Hand Luggage Suitcase , Charcoal
Price: --
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  • Amazing airline Compatibility: at Aerolite, we understand that travellers may Fly with many different airlines throughout their lifetime. That’s why we designed this cabin case so it is accepted on the vast majority of airlines throughout the UK, Europe and North America. Including Ryanair, EasyJet, British Airways, delta, Flybe, Lufthansa, Norwegian, Jet2, KLM, wiz air and Virgin Atlantic to name just a few Dimensions: 55x35x20cm (all Parts), 48.5x35x20cm (body). weight: 2.6kg. Capacity: 34L
  • Take the strain out of travel: just getting to and from your final destination can be frustrating enough - your luggage shouldn't add to that stress. This stylish cabin case features 4 spinner wheels, providing a full 360 degrees of manoeuvrability and allowing the suitcase to roll along comfortably alongside you, eliminating the strain of pushing or towing. With a height-adjustable retractable handle there’s no need to strain your back; and you can even place small bags and essentials on top
  • Because your luggage is worth protecting: whether you're a on a business trip or going away on holiday, we know your luggage is precious to you. The shell of this suitcase is made from strong and durable ABS plastic to withstand the rigours of modern transport. It also includes a 3-digit combination barrel padlock to lock the zips together for added security
  • Ideal storage space: Transporting as many necessities as possible with as little inconvenience as possible is the name of the game for any flight. The interior features packing straps to hold your clothes in place, as well as two elasticated shoe pockets, a zipped divider pocket for anything you want to keep separate, and mesh pockets for your documents
  • Aerolite pride themselves on the quality and durability of their Hard-shell cabin luggage cases; so much so that they offer a replacement service covering all manufacturing defects – so you can buy with absolute confidence
Cabin Max Backpack Flight Approved Carry On Cabin Bag - Photo Postcards
Price: £29.71
You save: £0.28 (1%) (1 %)
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  • Carry On backpack 55x40x20cm soft shell design to fit 94% of worldwide hand luggage gauges including: EasyJet and Ryan Air, Germanwings, Norwegian, Virgin, BA, Lufthansa, Jet2, Lingus, Flybe, Delta, American, Emirates, and many more.
  • Large 44-litre capacity cabin bag makes it possible to fly without checking in baggage to the hold. Lightweight yet durable design 0.7kg (1.5lbs).
  • Featuring 3 main lockable zipped compartments, including document pocket, organisational accessories and tech pocket, including 2 zipped compartments. High strength durable, showerproof, and recyclable, 600D polyester fabric.
  • Adjustable shoulder straps, carrying handle, side adjustable compression straps, and padded ergonomic design back section.
  • International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
Cabin Max Backpack Cabin Bag - 44 Litre - Reef
Price: £29.71
You save: £0.28 (1%) (1 %)
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  • Carry On backpack 55x40x20cm soft shell design to fit 94% of worldwide hand luggage gauges including: EasyJet and Ryan Air, Germanwings, Norwegian, Virgin, BA, Lufthansa, Jet2, Lingus, Delta, American, Emirates, and many more.
  • Large 44-litre capacity cabin bag makes it possible to fly without checking in baggage to the hold. Lightweight yet durable design 0.7kg (1.5lbs).
  • Featuring 3 main lockable zipped compartments, including document pocket, organisational accessories and tech pocket, including 2 zipped compartments. High strength durable, showerproof, and recyclable, 600D polyester fabric.
  • Adjustable shoulder straps, carrying handle, side adjustable compression straps, and padded ergonomic design back section.
  • Flight Approved. 3 Year quality and satisfaction Guarantee. Pack to the MAX New midi- Metz 30L 45x35x20cm version search ASIN: B072KKHPGX
Karabar Berwyn Leather Style Carry On Cabin Hand Luggage, Brown
Price: £24.99
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  • CABIN APPROVED WITH MOST AIRLINES: We believe that travellers may fly with many different airlines throughout their lifetime. That's why we designed this super lightweight cabin approved bag so it is accepted on the vast majority of airlines throughout the UK, USA and Europe, including Ryanair, EasyJet, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Flybe, Lufthansa, Norwegian, Jet2, KLM, Air France, Wizz Air and many more!
  • DURABLE FOR STRESS FREE TRIP: Getting to and from your holiday destination can be a stressful journey. This stylish carry-on luggage shoulder bag features two carry handles making this ultra light weekender bag strong, secure and reliable. This overnight holdall will make your journey great and your trip pleasant and enjoyable, and you can even place small bags and travel essentials on top!
  • LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION: This weekend bag is made from durable polyester material which is lightweight and strong to withstand the rigours of modern transport. It will protect your contents from water, drinks, rain and other liquids during travel. The soft shell is tough and impact resistant. Size 55 x 40 x 20 cm, weight 0.8 kg, capacity 44 L.
  • PERFECT FOR ULTIMATE ORGANISATION: The interior is fully lined, perfect for ties, underwear, socks, documents, laptop and other essentials, to keep the contents of your overhead luggage in place during flight and transit. Designed as a unisex bag for women & men, this over night travel bag features adjustable and detachable shoulder strap, providing versatility and comfort!
  • EXCEPTIONAL 10 YEARS WARRANTY: Karabar pride themselves on the durability, robustness and quality workmanship of their popular soft and hard luggage bags and suitcases, so much so that they offer a 10-year warranty replacement service covering all manufacturing defects - so you can buy with complete confidence and peace of mind!
COOLIFE Carry On Hand Cabin Luggage Hard Shell Travel Bag Lightweight, Apple Green
Price: £31.99
You save: £8.00 (20%) (20 %)
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  • Dimensions S: 56x39x23cm(All Parts). Capacity: 38L. Weight: 6.3lbs. Dimensions M:67x46x26cm(All Parts).Capacity: 60L. Weight: 7.9lbs. Dimensions L:77x52.5x30cm(All Parts). Capacity: 93L. Weight: 10lbs. Important: Please choose the size you need to purchase.
  • BEST QUALITY ALSO BEST PRICE WITH TWO YEARS WARRANTY: Our suitcases are well made with quality materials and every suitcase goes through strict quality control test, like Drop loading test, Lifting test of handle, Wheel rolling test, Zipper test etc.
  • COBINATION LOCK + 4 SPINNER + SIDE HANDLE: With build in combination lock, it’s easy and convenient to lock and unlock your suitcase during travel. The 4 multidirectional spinner wheels moves smoothly and quietly. The side handle can be really handy when lifting the suitcase with heavy weight.
  • ABS HARD SHELL + ALUMINIUM COPING HANDLE: Our suitcases are made of hard ABS material, it’s strong, lightweighted and scratch resistant. The aluminium coping handle is lightweight and strong.
  • DETAILED INTERIOR: The Interior of the suitcase are covered with two layers of materials. Polyester fabric and a thin layer of foam, to increase elastic buffer and add comfort for our dear customers. Also with Interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated, squared full capacity design.
American Tourister - Disney Wavebreaker Star Wars R2D2
Price: £106.16
You save: £8.84 (8%) (8 %)
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  • Cross ribbons, zipped divider and apron pocket allow easy storing
  • Fixed 3-digit TSA Lock on Spinner 67 & 77
  • Stylish close-up print
  • Textured surface protects against scratches

The first thing to consider is the way you wish to carry your bag. Will you be using it for another purpose at your destination, or will you store it until your return journey.

The two most popular styles of cabin bags are backpacks or wheeled cases. Both help you carry the weight of the bag, and a backpack will leave your hands free.

If you want a suitcase for your carry-on luggage, you need to decide if you want it to be hard shell or soft shell.

Hard shell cabin suitcases have a solid outside. These tend to be made from strong plastic or fibreglass. Hard shell cabin bags can withstand most rough handling that they will receive on your trip and protect the contents inside. They can be waterproof too as they are not made from fabric. Many cabin cases come with wheels so you can simply pull the case behind you instead of carrying it. Some modern versions have four wheels rather than two meaning you can push them along in front. A telescopic handle allows you to comfortably pull the case along without stooping. You store the handle inside the body of the case when not in use. If there are times you will want to carry the case on your shoulder choose a model that comes with a removable shoulder strap.

Inside your case you will find lots of clever ways to keep your belongings in place. Packing straps help keep hold folded clothes where they should be. Some will offer dividers to help you separate your travel items. Pockets are useful to keep everything organised.

The rigid nature of a hard shell case means you do not need to worry about your belongings being squashed. You can safely place the case in the overhead locker knowing someone won’t crush your essential items. Despite all these features, clever construction means your cabin suitcase will be lightweight. This leaves more allowance for your belongings.

Backpack cabin bags keep your hands free. You can empty them at your destination and use them as your day-to-day holiday bag. Your rucksack should be made from durable polyester. This helps prevent tears and scrapes making holes for your possessions to fall out of. It will make your bag last for years and more than one trip.

Many backpack carry on bags have more than one main compartment. They close with zips and help you stay organised. Keep your clothes in one, toiletries in another, and travel documents in the third.

If you prefer a holdall style bag, choose a strong, lightweight version. It should have more than one big compartment. This will avoid having a huge space packed with things that you have to rummage through to find anything at the airport.

Cabin Bag Sizes and Weights for the main UK Airline routes.

Last checked on 19/6/2019

British Airways   56 x 45 x 25cm max 23kg

EasyJet             56 x 45 x 25cm

Emirates           55 x 38 x 20cm max 7kg

FlyBe                55 x 35 x 20cm max 10kg

Jet2                  56 x 45 x 25cm max 10kg

Ryanair             55 x 40 x 20cm max 10kg Priority Boarders
40 x 20 x 25cm Non-Priority Boarders

Thomas Cook   55 x 40 x 20cm max 8kg

TUI                    55 x 40 x 20cm max 5kg or 7kg depending on ticket

Virgin Atlantic    56 x 36 x 23cm max 10kg