Does a Backpack Fit Ryanair's Cabin Bag Allowance in 2026?

Ryanair is strict on bag size, and the gate staff do check. Here is exactly what fits in 2026 and how to avoid paying for the hold.

Ryanair's two bag sizes

• Free small bag: 40 x 30 x 20 cm, must fit under the seat in front of you. Every passenger gets this.
• Priority cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm, up to 10kg, goes in the overhead locker. This needs Priority and Two Cabin Bags on your fare.

Ryanair increased the free small bag to 40 x 30 x 20 cm in 2025 to match the new EU minimum, and the rules can change again, so always check the current size on ryanair.com before you fly.

Does a backpack fit?

A normal 30 litre daypack is around 45 to 50 cm tall, so most backpacks are too long for the 40cm free bag. They do fit the 55 x 40 x 20 cm Priority allowance comfortably.

Our Vacuum Compression Pack is 49 x 32 x 15 cm, opening to 20 cm deep. It fits the Ryanair Priority cabin allowance with room to spare, and it is too long for the free underseat bag. The point of it is the built in pump, which vacuum compresses your clothes so a week of packing fits inside the cabin limit instead of a checked suitcase.

How to avoid the hold fee

A Ryanair checked bag can cost forty to sixty pounds each way. If your trip fits a Priority cabin bag, you skip that. Two return trips and a bag that keeps you cabin only has paid for itself.

Browse cabin and travel backpacks, or see the full UK hand luggage size guide.

Sizes correct for 2026. Ryanair changes its rules often, so confirm on ryanair.com before you travel.