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)
KLM/Transavia: 55x35x25cm + 12kg. Ryanair: 40x25x20cm small bag free, 55x40x20cm + 10kg = €10 extra. Easyjet: 45x36x20cm free. Wizz Air: 40x30x20cm free.
Pack tip 1: choose the right bag
A 40L backpack like Osprey Farpoint 40 fits all major airlines as carry-on. Weighs only 1.2kg empty so you can pack 9kg+ of stuff.
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 in a clear 1L zipper bag, max 100ml each. Solid soap and toothpaste tablets don't count as liquids.
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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Frequently asked questions
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.
Updated 24 July 2026.
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