Traveling on a budget while still being able to go on multiple trips throughout the year is definitely achievable if you’re willing to make some adjustments. One of the key changes we made was opting for a travel backpack instead of a traditional suitcase when flying. This decision allowed us to adhere to the strict baggage regulations of low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Easy Jet, ultimately saving us a significant amount of money on baggage fees.
Finding the right travel backpack for air travel was a bit of a challenge, as we needed to ensure that it met all the size and weight requirements set by the airlines. Additionally, I wanted a personal item backpack that was not only practical but also stylish. After some thorough research and browsing, we were able to find the perfect backpacks that ticked all the boxes. With these backpack, we were able to explore various destinations such as Montenegro, Bergamo, Milan, Venice, and Northern Ireland without any hassle.
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Why Should You Read Our Review of the Best Travel Backpack?

We highly recommend taking a look at the carefully curated selection of travel backpacks featured in our article. These backpacks have been chosen based on their practicality, durability, and popularity among frequent travelers like us. We understand that choosing the right backpack for air travel can be overwhelming due to the wide variety available, which is why we have narrowed down the options to make the decision-making process easier for you.
In our article, you will find a comprehensive list of the best travel backpacks that are suitable for use on most airlines worldwide. These backpacks have been selected based on their ability to meet the requirements of major airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, Lufthansa Group, Air France-KLM, Turkish Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
By choosing one of the backpacks from our list, you can be confident that it will comply with the regulations of the most popular airlines, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. The backpacks featured in our article are not only recommended by us, but they are also commonly spotted at airports and used by fellow travelers.
Travel Backpack – Which Backpack Should You Choose for Your Flight?
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Fjällräven Kanken – The Most Popular Travel Backpack
🎒 Backpack size: 38 x 27 x 13 cm
✈️ You can take it with you on plane with many airlines
👉 Check out: Amazon UK
- Easy Jet (45 x 36 x 20 cm)
- Wizz Air (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
- British Airways (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
- Air France-KLM (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
- Turkish Airlines (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
The Fjällräven Kanken Backpack has gained immense popularity among travelers, particularly at British airports, due to its sleek design and practicality. Its narrow shape is a key factor that appeals to many individuals, as it aligns perfectly with the strict width regulations set by British Airways for hand bags. This makes it a top choice for travelers who prioritize both style and functionality when selecting a travel backpack for their journeys.
As we prepare for our upcoming trip from London to Los Angeles with British Airways, the Fjällräven Kanken Backpack seems like a practical investment. Its compact size and compatibility with British Airways’ strict width standards provide peace of mind for travelers. By opting for this stylish and functional travel backpack, we can enjoy our journey knowing that our carry-on luggage meets the airline’s criteria, allowing us to travel with ease and convenience.
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Cabin Max – Our Favorite Travel Backpack
🎒 Backpack size: 40 x 25 x 20 cm
✈️ You can take it with you on plane with many airlines
👉 Check out: Amazon UK
- Easy Jet (45 x 36 x 20 cm)
- Ryanair (40 x 25 x 20 cm)
- Wizz Air (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
- United Airlines Holdings (43 x 25 x 22 cm)
- American Airlines Group (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
Our journeys across Europe have been made incredibly comfortable by the trusty Cabin Max travel backpack that my partner always brings along. I have been thoroughly impressed by its spaciousness and practicality. While I initially opted for the stylish Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack, there have been moments when I found myself wishing I had chosen the original Cabin Max model instead. The backpack’s design maximizes the available space, allowing for the efficient packing of all essential travel items.
During our recent Easy Jet flight from Northern Ireland to Manchester, we were asked to verify the dimensions of the Cabin Max travel backpack. Despite appearing to be quite full, it easily met the standards set by Easy Jet. This backpack is truly fantastic for all kinds of travel, whether it be short trips or longer journeys.
We also took the Cabin Max travel backpack on a flight with Ryanair without encountering any issues. It is also worth investing in travel accessories such as compression organizers, which enable you to pack even more clothing. Thanks to these organizers, we were able to fit not only our clothes, but also the DJI Mini 4 Pro Drone and various GoPro accessories into the Cabin Max travel backpack.
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EcoHub – Waterproof Travel Backpack
🎒 Backpack size: 40 x 25 x 20 cm
✈️ You can take it with you on plane with many airlines
👉 Check out: Amazon UK
- Easy Jet (45 x 36 x 20 cm)
- Ryanair (40 x 25 x 20 cm)
- Wizz Air (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
- United Airlines Holdings (43 x 25 x 22 cm)
- American Airlines Group (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
The ECOHUB travel backpack offers a sustainable solution for individuals who prioritize environmental conservation. Crafted from 34 PET plastic bottles, this backpack is 100% ecological, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious consumers. The recycled fabric used in its construction is not only environmentally friendly but also waterproof, ensuring extra protection during travel.
In terms of functionality, the ECOHUB travel backpack features a convenient side handle that facilitates easy carrying, allowing it to double as a travel bag. Moreover, it is equipped with a USB charging port, enabling users to conveniently charge their electronic devices while on the go. This added feature enhances the backpack’s practicality and makes it a versatile option for modern travelers.
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Cabin Max Travel Hack – Women’s Travel Backpack
🎒 Backpack size: 40 x 25 x 20cm
✈️ You can take it with you on plane with many airlines
- Easy Jet (45 x 36 x 20 cm)
- Ryanair (40 x 25 x 20 cm)
- Wizz Air (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
- United Airlines Holdings (43 x 25 x 22 cm)
- American Airlines Group (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
When I was searching for a backpack to take on my upcoming trip to Venice and for weekend getaways to other European cities, I had specific criteria in mind. I wanted a backpack that was not only spacious but also stylish. The Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack caught my eye as it ticked off both boxes. Its sleek design and ample storage space made it the perfect choice for my travel needs.
The Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack has many easy-access pockets, including a side pocket for a laptop or tablet. However, I found a different purpose for it. I decided to keep my passport organizer in that pocket. This way, I can easily access all my important travel documents in one convenient location, especially when going through airport security checks. It has proven to be a practical and efficient way to stay organized during my travels.
One of the standout features of the Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack is its compact yet roomy design. The fact that it opens up like a suitcase makes packing a breeze, allowing me to fit in enough clothes for several days without any hassle. I highly recommend the Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack to anyone in search of a versatile and practical travel companion.
How to Pack a Backpack for a flight?
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Use Compression Packing Cubes
When it comes to selecting a backpack to take on a plane, it is essential to consider a few key factors. A high-quality backpack should feature numerous pockets and compartments to help you easily organize all your travel essentials. In addition to this, investing in compression packing cubes can be extremely beneficial as they enable you to pack a larger amount of clothing more efficiently.
With the help of GONEX compression packing cubes, I have been able to pack efficiently for extended trips using my Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack, even for journeys lasting up to a week. These compression packing cubes are crafted from durable waterproof material and their double zippers function smoothly, making it simple to compress your clothes and maximize the available space in your backpack.
Apart from being practical for travel purposes, GONEX compression packing cubes also serve as an excellent solution for tidying up your wardrobe at home. By utilizing these compression packing cubes, I can compress clothing items that I don’t use very often, freeing up valuable space in my closet for other belongings. This dual functionality makes GONEX compression packing cubes a versatile and valuable addition to any travelers.
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Find the Most Effective Way to Fold Clothes for Travel
When preparing for a flight, it can be beneficial to utilize the method of rolling garments instead of folding them. Rolling clothes not only helps in reducing wrinkles but also maximizes the available space in your backpack. By rolling your clothes tightly, you can efficiently utilize the space in your backpack, making it easier to pack more items without worrying about excessive creases.
However, in comparison to folding clothes and compressing them, using GONEX compression packing cubes proves to be a more efficient approach. GONEX compression packing cubes provide a structured way to pack clothes neatly and compactly. When clothes are folded and placed into these organizers, it is surprising how much can be accommodated in a limited space. This method not only keeps your clothes organized but also ensures that you can pack efficiently for your trip.
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Pack Your Travel Wallet
Whenever I fly, I make sure to bring along my trusty Boacay travel wallet. It’s the perfect size to slip into the side pocket of my Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack, so I can easily access all my essential documents. This includes my passport, credit cards, plane tickets, and keys. Despite holding all these important items, it doesn’t take up much room, leaving me with plenty of space for other travel essentials.
What Size Backpack Can I Take on a Plane as a Personal Item?

The dimensions of the backpack you are allowed to bring on the airplane can vary depending on the airline you are flying with. Typically, the standard size for carry-on luggage is 40 x 25 x 20 cm, but it is important to verify the exact specifications of the airline you are traveling with to ensure that your backpack meets their requirements.
Popular Airlines in Europe

Ryanair, an Irish airline, has gained immense popularity not just within Europe, but also globally. The maximum dimensions allowed for a backpack on a Ryanair flight are 40 x 25 x 20 cm. When selecting a backpack for your Ryanair flight, it is advisable to opt for reputable brands like Cabin Max or ECOHUB. These brands offer high-quality backpacks that are perfectly suited for traveling with Ryanair. Ensuring that your backpack meets the specified size requirements will help you avoid any issues during the boarding process.
Lufthansa Group, a well-known German airline, permits passengers to bring a backpack onboard with measurements of 40 x 30 x 10 cm. On the other hand, Air France-KLM offers a slightly more generous allowance for backpack dimensions, allowing for 40 x 30 x 15 cm. The Fjällräven Kanken backpack is recommended for those traveling with this airline due to its size compatibility. When traveling with Lufthansa Group, it is essential to avoid overloading your Fjällräven Kanken backpack to adhere to the airline’s guidelines.
When traveling in business class with Aegean Airlines, in addition to hand luggage, you can take a backpack that should fit under the seat. Both the Cabin Max and ECOHUB backpacks are excellent choices for travelers traveling with Aegean Airlines to Greece.
Popular Airlines in the United States
Delta Air Lines does not have a specific size requirement for travel backpacks, but they must be able to fit under the seat. On the other hand, if you are flying with American Airlines Group, the maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage are 45 x 35 x 20 cm. However, if you are traveling with United Airlines Holdings, the backpack size cannot exceed 43 x 25 x 22 cm. It is important to always check the hand luggage regulations before your trip to ensure compliance with the airline’s requirements.
Popular Airlines in Asia
If you’re planning a trip with Turkish Airlines, you might want to think about investing in the Fjällräven Kanken backpack. This backpack is designed to fit perfectly within the airline’s maximum hand luggage dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15 cm. By choosing this backpack, you can steer clear of any extra baggage charges or potential issues with the airline. The Fjällräven Kanken backpack is not just functional, but it’s also fashionable and long-lasting, making it a fantastic option for those traveling to Asia.
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