Carry-on tips: rules per airline + smart packing
Save €30-€50 per flight by traveling with carry-on only. Here are the rules per airline and 10 smart packing tips.
Quick answer: Carry-on rules differ per airline: with Ryanair a small bag (40x25x20 cm) is free, with KLM and Transavia you may bring carry-on up to 55x35x25 cm and 12 kg. Always check your specific ticket before packing.
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Carry-on rules per airline (2026)
Every airline has different size and weight limits for carry-on luggage. Below is an overview of the most commonly used airlines from the Netherlands.
Always check the most up-to-date dimensions on your airline's website before departure: rules change frequently. Save the limits on your phone so you can quickly check them at the gate.
Pack tip 1: choose the right bag
A 40L backpack like the Osprey Farpoint 40 (55x36x22 cm, 1.2 kg empty) fits as carry-on with KLM, Transavia, easyJet and Lufthansa. With Ryanair without Priority it is too large for the overhead bin; use the smaller version (Osprey Farpoint Mini 26L) or a compact suitcase of 40x20x25 cm.
Budget alternative: Cabin Zero 36L for around €40. Choose a bag with a semi-rigid frame if you carry heavier items; a soft bag is lighter but offers less protection.
Pack tip 2: roll, don't fold
Rolled t-shirts and underwear take 30% less space. Pack large items (jeans) at the bottom, small things on top.
Pack tip 3: compression cubes
Eagle Creek Pack-It compression cubes (€20 set) squeeze your stuff 40% smaller. Best investment for frequent flyers.
Pack tip 4: wear heavy items on board
Hiking boots, winter coat, sweaters - wear them on the plane. Frees up 2-3kg of carry-on weight.
Pack tip 5: power bank in carry-on
NEVER in checked baggage, only carry-on. Maximum 100Wh (most phone power banks are 50Wh).
Pack tip 6: 100ml liquid rule
All liquids, gels and pastes must go in a transparent resealable bag of maximum 1 litre, with no more than 100 ml per item. This also applies to sunscreen, make-up, gel deodorant and pastes.
Solid alternatives do NOT count as liquids: solid shampoo bar, solid deodorant, toothpaste tablets and bar soap can go directly in your bag. This keeps your full 1L bag free for other items. Note: peanut butter, hummus and Nutella are treated as gels by security.
Pack tip 7: shoes save space
Maximum 2 pairs (the wearing ones + one extra). Pack socks inside shoes. Saves a lot of bag space.
Pack tip 8: digital documents
Save passport copy, boarding pass, travel insurance in your phone + email. No paper to lug around.
Pack tip 9: laundry on the road
Bring travel laundry soap (€5). Wash underwear and t-shirts in the hotel sink. Lets you travel longer with less clothing.
Pack tip 10: leave space for souvenirs
Pack 70% full at departure. Leaves room for a wine bottle, ceramics or that vintage jacket you'll buy.
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What are the hand luggage size rules for Ryanair?
Ryanair allows two items: a small personal bag (40x25x20 cm, free) and a cabin bag (55x40x20 cm + 10 euro, or included with Priority). Ryanair has strict checks; weigh and measure your bag before departure.
Can I take a power bank in my hand luggage?
Yes, but only in hand luggage, never in the hold. Maximum 100Wh (about 27,000 mAh). A larger power bank will be confiscated by security on the spot.
What are the hand luggage dimensions for KLM and Transavia?
With KLM and Transavia your hand luggage may be a maximum of 55x35x25 cm and 12 kg. Always check this; the dimensions are smaller than with Easyjet or Lufthansa.
What counts as a liquid at the security check?
All liquids, gels, pastes and creams must go in a transparent 1-litre zip-lock bag, with a maximum of 100 ml per item. Solid soap, shampoo bars and toothpaste tablets do not count as liquids.
Can I bring an extra bag as carry-on with Ryanair?
With a standard Ryanair ticket (without Priority) you may bring one small personal bag of maximum 40x20x25 cm, free under the seat. A larger carry-on bag (55x40x20 cm) costs extra (approx. €10-15) or is included with Priority boarding. Without Priority you may be forced to check your large bag as hold luggage at the gate for €30-45. Always book Priority or the larger bag online in advance.
What are the carry-on rules for flights outside Europe?
Outside Europe (long-haul flights) different rules apply: KLM allows up to 12 kg on long-haul routes, but Emirates and Qatar Airways use 7 kg limits. Domestic US flights have no fixed size rules but strict overhead-bin enforcement. Always check the rules for your specific airline for your flight, not just the outbound but also the return.
Updated 1 October 2026.
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