Best Bags for Ryanair's Free Allowance: 40×20×25 cm Picks
The best bags that fit Ryanair's free 40×20×25 cm allowance. Avoid the Priority fee with these tested picks for Ryanair's strict size gauge.
Ryanair operates one of the most restrictive baggage policies in Europe. Get it wrong at the gate and you're paying €/£25 or more to check a bag you thought was carry-on. This guide focuses on finding the right bag for each tier.
Ryanair's two-tier system explained
Ryanair offers two levels of cabin baggage:
Free personal item (all passengers): One small bag up to 40×20×25 cm. This must fit under the seat in front of you. No weight limit is officially stated, but staff may question very heavy items.
Priority boarding (paid add-on): One cabin bag up to 55×40×20 cm plus the free personal item. The 20 cm depth on the Priority bag is the spec that catches travellers out — many standard carry-ons are 23 cm deep.
The free 40×20×25 cm allowance is genuinely useful for weekend trips. Below are the best bags that fit comfortably within those dimensions.
Best bags for Ryanair's free 40×20×25 cm allowance
1. Cabin Max Metz — Perfect size match
Dimensions: 40×20×25 cm exact | Weight: approx 0.4 kg
The Metz is designed specifically to the 40×20×25 cm Ryanair specification. It's a soft nylon bag with a single main compartment and a front zip pocket. Simple, but it does exactly what it says.
Pros:
- Built to the exact Ryanair free allowance specification
- Extremely lightweight at under 0.5 kg
- Available in multiple colours
Cons:
- Minimal structure — won't protect fragile items well
- No frame means it can lose shape when not fully packed
Note: Placeholder ASIN — verify the listing before purchasing.
2. Osprey Daylite — Best packable option
Dimensions: 34×25×14 cm | Weight: 0.3 kg
The Daylite is smaller than the Ryanair free allowance, which means it sails through the gate without stress. The padded back panel and straps make it comfortable for city walking, and it packs flat when empty.
Pros:
- Undershoots the 40×20×25 cm limit — guaranteed to pass
- Can attach to larger Osprey packs as a daypack
- Packable to almost nothing when empty
Cons:
- Smaller than the allowed limit — you're leaving packing space on the table
- No laptop sleeve or dedicated organisation
Note: Placeholder ASIN — verify the listing before purchasing.
3. Travelite Kick Off — Worth checking priority tier
Dimensions: 45×25×27 cm | Weight: 0.5 kg
The Kick Off is a soft weekend bag that exceeds the 40×20×25 cm free allowance in two of three dimensions. If you have Priority boarding, it fits comfortably within the 55×40×20 cm tier. Without Priority, leave this one at home.
Pros:
- Ideal size for a Priority boarding weekend bag
- Folds flat for storage at home
- Strong carry handles and optional shoulder strap
Cons:
- Does not fit the free 40×20×25 cm allowance
- At 45 cm long it also won't fit Ryanair's Priority gauge correctly — measure carefully
Note: Placeholder ASIN — verify the listing before purchasing.
4. 4Monster Travel Backpack — Best backpack option
Dimensions: 40×20×25 cm | Weight: 0.6 kg
A waterproof daypack designed to the exact Ryanair free allowance dimensions. The padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 15") and multiple organisation pockets make it one of the most useful bags at this size.
Pros:
- Fits the 40×20×25 cm free allowance exactly
- Padded laptop sleeve and USB charging port
- Water-resistant nylon construction
Cons:
- Hard frame inserts can make it inflexible when stuffed
- Shoulder straps are minimally padded for longer carries
Note: Placeholder ASIN — verify the listing before purchasing.
5. HEXAD Access Duffel — Best duffel option
Dimensions: approx 40×25×25 cm | Weight: 0.7 kg
The HEXAD is a technical duffel from WANDRD that packs thoughtfully and feels premium. The soft construction allows it to compress slightly if dimensions are questioned at the gate. Works best as a Priority carry-on companion bag.
Pros:
- High-quality materials and construction
- Multiple access points (top, side, front)
- Soft sides help it pass dimension checks in borderline cases
Cons:
- Premium price for a duffel
- Approximate dimensions — confirm with manufacturer before buying for the free allowance
Note: Placeholder ASIN — verify the listing before purchasing.
Tips for passing Ryanair gate checks
- Measure your bag when packed, not empty. Most bags list empty external dimensions.
- Use the gate gauge if one is visible before boarding. Staff occasionally ask passengers to test bags.
- Soft bags pass more easily — a slightly over-size soft bag can often be compressed to pass.
- Priority is often worth it. If you're carrying more than a very small weekend bag, paying for Priority (and the 55×40×20 cm allowance) removes all anxiety.
Check exact Ryanair limits and compare with your bag on CarrySizer.
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