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10 Best Carry On Bags 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#2

VMIKIV for Ryanair Cabin Bags 40x20x25 Underseat Carry On Backpack,Small Travel Backpack Cabin Size Hand Luggage Bag,Under Seat Cabin Bag Backpack

Rating
9.6
Size
Weight
Material
Size
The bag perfectly fits Ryanair's under-seat size limits, making it ideal for short trips and weekend breaks.
Weight
The bag's material is strong, lightweight, and water-resistant, maintaining a compact shape even when fully packed.
Material
The bag's material is strong, lightweight, and water-resistant, maintaining a compact shape even when fully packed.
Compartments
Multiple compartments allow for excellent organization and easy access to belongings.
Security Features
A secure back pocket provides peace of mind for storing valuables like phones and passports.

The VMIKIV carry-on backpack is designed specifically to meet Ryanair's strict under-seat size limit of 40x20x25 cm, which is great if you often fly with this airline and want to avoid extra fees. It weighs 670 g, making it lightweight and easy to carry around. The bag uses wear-resistant fabric and features reinforced padded shoulder straps along with double handles, so it's comfortable to wear or carry by hand. It doesn’t have wheels, which is common for backpacks, but it does include a trolley sleeve strap that lets you slide it onto a suitcase handle, saving effort when moving through airports.

Inside, the backpack offers a smart layout with multiple compartments: a large main section that opens like a suitcase for easy packing and airport checks, several smaller pockets for organizing items, two mesh side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas, a wet pocket for toiletries, and an anti-theft back pocket for valuables. One handy feature is the side hole for charging devices or listening to music without opening the bag, though you’ll need to bring your own cables and power bank. Security-wise, the anti-theft pocket is a nice addition for peace of mind.

This backpack is well suited for short trips or weekend getaways where you need a compact, organized bag that fits Ryanair’s restrictions. While the lack of wheels might be a downside if you prefer rolling luggage, it serves as a lightweight, versatile carry-on bag that also functions as a casual daypack.

Rating
9.6
Size
Weight
Material
Size
The bag perfectly fits Ryanair's under-seat size limits, making it ideal for short trips and weekend breaks.
Weight
The bag's material is strong, lightweight, and water-resistant, maintaining a compact shape even when fully packed.
Material
The bag's material is strong, lightweight, and water-resistant, maintaining a compact shape even when fully packed.
Compartments
Multiple compartments allow for excellent organization and easy access to belongings.
Security Features
A secure back pocket provides peace of mind for storing valuables like phones and passports.
#3

Samsonite Base Boost - Upright S (L�nge 40 cm) Handgeck, 55 cm, 41 l, Black (Black)

Rating
9.4
Size
Weight
Material
Size
Despite its compact size, the bag maximizes space efficiently, surprising users with how much it can hold.
Weight
The bag’s lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to handle, yet it still offers impressive packing capacity.
Material
Durability shines through with high-quality materials and sturdy zippers that stand up to frequent travel.
Compartments
Smart organization features keep belongings neatly arranged, preventing the hassle of rummaging.
Wheels
Smooth-rolling wheels and a comfortable telescopic handle ensure effortless navigation through busy airports.
Security Features
The secure lock system adds peace of mind without compromising convenience during airport inspections.

The Samsonite Base Boost Upright S is a lightweight carry-on bag, weighing just 2 kg, which makes it easy to handle and transport through busy airports. Its dimensions (40 x 20 x 55 cm) fit within most airline cabin baggage rules, giving you peace of mind when boarding. The bag includes a TSA-approved lock, enhancing security and allowing hassle-free inspection at airport checkpoints.

It features two high-quality wheels for smooth rolling and a bottom compartment with ribbons, which helps organize your belongings neatly. An additional front exterior pocket offers extra storage and quick access to essentials, designed with a distinctive metal logo and stylish details. While the bag maximizes volume in its front pocket, the storage capacity is moderate at 41 liters, making it a bit tight for longer trips or travelers who pack bulky items.

This carry-on is a solid choice for short trips or business travel, appealing especially to those who prioritize lightweight, secure, and manageable luggage rather than maximum packing space.

Rating
9.4
Size
Weight
Material
Size
Despite its compact size, the bag maximizes space efficiently, surprising users with how much it can hold.
Weight
The bag’s lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to handle, yet it still offers impressive packing capacity.
Material
Durability shines through with high-quality materials and sturdy zippers that stand up to frequent travel.
Compartments
Smart organization features keep belongings neatly arranged, preventing the hassle of rummaging.
Wheels
Smooth-rolling wheels and a comfortable telescopic handle ensure effortless navigation through busy airports.
Security Features
The secure lock system adds peace of mind without compromising convenience during airport inspections.

Buying Guide for the Best Carry On Bags

Choosing the right carry-on bag is essential for a smooth travel experience. The perfect carry-on should be easy to handle, fit within airline size restrictions, and accommodate your travel essentials. When selecting a carry-on bag, consider factors such as size, weight, material, compartments, and additional features that suit your travel style and needs.
SizeSize is crucial because airlines have specific restrictions for carry-on luggage dimensions. Typically, the maximum size is around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but this can vary by airline. It's important to check the airline's policy before purchasing. If you frequently travel with different airlines, opt for a bag that meets the most restrictive size requirements. Consider your packing habits; if you pack light, a smaller bag might suffice, but if you need more space, ensure it still fits within the limits.
WeightThe weight of the carry-on bag itself can impact how much you can pack without exceeding airline weight limits. Lighter bags allow you to pack more items without going over the limit. Bags typically range from 4 to 10 pounds. If you tend to pack heavy, choose a lighter bag to maximize your packing capacity. Conversely, if you pack minimally, the weight of the bag may be less of a concern.
MaterialThe material of a carry-on bag affects its durability, weight, and appearance. Common materials include hard-shell plastics like polycarbonate, which offer protection for fragile items, and soft fabrics like nylon or polyester, which are lighter and more flexible. If you prioritize durability and protection, a hard-shell bag might be best. For those who value flexibility and lighter weight, a soft-sided bag could be more suitable.
CompartmentsCompartments help organize your belongings and make it easier to access items during travel. Some bags have multiple pockets and dividers, while others have a more open design. If you like to keep your items organized and separate, look for a bag with several compartments. If you prefer a more open space for packing, a bag with fewer compartments might be ideal.
WheelsWheels on a carry-on bag can significantly affect ease of transport. There are two main types: two-wheel and four-wheel (spinner) designs. Two-wheel bags are better for rough terrain and pulling behind you, while four-wheel bags offer more maneuverability and can be pushed alongside you. Consider your travel habits; if you often navigate crowded airports, a four-wheel bag might be more convenient. For those who travel on uneven surfaces, a two-wheel design could be more practical.
HandlesHandles are important for comfort and ease of use. Look for a bag with a sturdy, adjustable telescopic handle that suits your height. Some bags also have side and top handles for easier lifting. If you frequently lift your bag into overhead compartments, additional handles can be beneficial. Ensure the main handle is comfortable to grip and extends to a height that allows you to maneuver the bag without straining.
Security FeaturesSecurity features like lockable zippers or built-in TSA-approved locks can help protect your belongings. These features are particularly important if you carry valuable items. If security is a priority, look for bags with these features. For those who don't carry valuables, basic zippers might suffice, but having some level of security can provide peace of mind.