Can a weekend bag go free of charge as carry-on luggage? How to check your bag
- 7 min reading time
A weekend bag can travel free under the seat if the packed dimensions, weight, and your ticket are correct.
Short answer: a weekend bag can be carried as free underseat cabin baggage if its fully packed external dimensions, weight, and the number of bags allowed on your ticket are within the limits. The name “weekend bag” does not grant an exemption: a soft bag that bulges out may be too large, even if the empty product dimensions fit.
Want to see the airlines side by side? View the current comparison of free underseat cabin baggage for Ryanair, Transavia, easyJet and Wizz Air.
Free underseat bag is not the same as larger cabin baggage
With Ryanair, Transavia, easyJet and Wizz Air, a small bag under the seat is included with the basic fare. A larger bag for the overhead compartment may only be included with a different fare or as a paid option. So do not just check if a weekend bag is called “cabin baggage,” but which category you have actually booked.
As of 21 October 2026, Ryanair, Transavia and Wizz Air refer to the small item as being a maximum of 40 × 30 × 20 cm. easyJet states 45 × 36 × 20 cm, including handles and wheels. Transavia and Wizz Air state 10 kg; easyJet states 15 kg and that you must be able to carry the bag yourself. Check the Ryanair rules, Transavia rules, easyJet rules or Wizz Air rules and your booking just before departure.
Why a soft weekend bag is often measured incorrectly
The base may be 20 cm deep while a filled front pocket protrudes by 23 cm. The top can also bulge due to a sweater or shoes. Therefore, do not measure the seams or the pattern, but the largest rectangle the closed bag fits into. Handles, zippers, buckles and filled pockets count.
Do not use the bag as a vacuum bag. If you have to push hard to close a zipper, there is a good chance that the external dimensions will change once the pressure is released. Leave a small margin and measure again after final packing. The full method is explained in the guide to measuring cabin baggage.
Empty product dimensions versus packed external dimensions
Stated product dimensions are a useful starting point, but not your own measurement of your packed bag. Therefore, always check three values:
- Catalogue dimensions: the dimensions listed with the product.
- Packed external dimensions: what you actually measure at home.
- Ticket limit: the current limit for your specific flight.
All three must fit. An allowed empty model may become too large when filled; a suitable external dimension may still fall outside your booking due to a weight limit or an additional second bag.
Compare our compact weekend bags
View the product dimensions and layout of these travel bags. The packed external dimensions and your booking determine whether a bag is allowed.
MONOO
Grey travel bag 40 × 30 × 20 cm
Soft polyester travel bag with five zippered compartments for clothes and travel essentials.
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MONOO
Weekend bag 40 × 20 × 25 cm
Compact weekend bag with multiple compartments and a separate shoe compartment. Available in pink and black.
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Compare the current Seprio weekend bags
Soft travel bag 40 × 30 × 20 cm
The grey travel bag is listed in the catalogue as 40 × 30 × 20 cm. This size numerically matches the current small bag limit for Ryanair, Transavia and Wizz Air and also falls within easyJet's current size. Because it is a soft bag, you must check after filling it whether the depth and top increase.
MONOO weekend bag 40 × 20 × 25 cm
The MONOO weekend bag in pink or black is registered as 40 × 20 × 25 cm. With an actual 40 × 25 × 20 orientation, that size can be placed next to a 40 × 30 × 20 limit. Check whether the bag can also be turned like that when filled and fits completely inside the measuring box. The catalogue size is no guarantee from the airline.
Both product registrations were available at the time of inspection. View the current selection in Underseat Travel Bags; check the size and stock again at the time of ordering.
View bags per airline: Ryanair underseat bags, easyJet underseat bags, Transavia underseat bags, Wizz Air underseat bags.
A quick check before you go to the gate
- Read the baggage category on your booking, not just the general airline page.
- Pack the bag completely and close all compartments.
- Measure the length, width and maximum depth including protruding parts.
- Weigh the complete bag if your airline states a weight.
- Do not take a second handbag or laptop bag if your fare only includes one item.
- Leave room for items you want to take back on the return journey.
When is a weekend bag the most convenient form?
A weekend bag is especially practical if you want a wide opening, carry it by hand or over the shoulder for short distances and want to store the bag compactly after the trip. A backpack distributes the weight more comfortably during longer walks and keeps your hands free. If you specifically want to carry it on two shoulders, read which backpack can fit under the airplane seat.
Still unsure about the carrying style? Then compare a backpack and travel bag as free underseaters on walking, accessibility and the packed size.
\n\nAirline sources and assortment checked on 21 October 2026. Product dimensions are catalogue specifications; measure your own packed bag.