Quick answer
Basic fares on many airlines include only a free personal item that fits under the seat. Common limits are 18 x 14 x 8 in (Frontier, American) in the US and 40 x 30 x 20 cm (Ryanair, Wizz Air) in Europe. Choose a soft bag at or below your airline’s limit, pack a capsule wardrobe, wear your bulkiest layers and use packing cubes.
Personal item size limits by airline
| Airline | Free personal item |
|---|---|
| Frontier | 18 x 14 x 8 in |
| American Airlines | 18 x 14 x 8 in |
| United | 9 x 10 x 17 in. Basic Economy allows a personal item only, except to South America and on transatlantic or transpacific trips. |
| Delta | No published size; must fit under the seat in front of you |
| Southwest | No published size; must fit under the seat |
| Ryanair | 40 x 30 x 20 cm |
| easyJet | 45 x 36 x 20 cm |
| Wizz Air | 40 x 30 x 20 cm, up to 10 kg |
Checked on airline websites in November 2026. Sizes usually include handles and wheels. Always check your own booking.
Choosing the bag
- Match the smallest limit you fly. A 40 x 30 x 20 cm bag works on Ryanair and Wizz Air and fits US limits too.
- Soft-sided beats rigid: a soft bag squeezes into sizers.
- Look for a luggage pass-through if you’ll ever pair it with a suitcase.
- Skip heavy frames. Every gram counts when there’s a weight limit.
Packing list for 3–5 days
- 2–3 tops in colours that mix and match
- 1 pair of trousers or a skirt (wear a second)
- Underwear and socks for 3–4 days (wash as you go)
- Light sleepwear or a T-shirt that doubles as one
- A thin warm layer
- Toiletries in travel sizes within liquids rules
- Phone, charger and a compact adapter
- Documents, wallet and medicines
Tips that make it work
- Wear your bulkiest items on the plane: shoes, jacket and jumper.
- Use packing cubes to compress soft items.
- Buy toiletries at your destination on longer trips.
- Plan to do laundry in a sink or laundromat.
- Check the liquids rules. See our liquids rules guide.
Gate fees
Budget airlines may charge at the gate if your bag doesn’t fit their sizer. Measure your packed bag, not the empty one.
Travel rules, prices and product details change. Check official government, airline and manufacturer sources before you book or buy.
