the travel hack by cabin max

Travel Hack Backpack Review | The Perfect Underseat Cabin Bag!

I am a huge fan of travelling with a backpack. I like that they are hands-free and perfect for exploring cities and carrying around all day. One of my favourites is the Travel Hack Backpack! It was designed by Monica from The Travel Hack , a travel blogger I have been following for years!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may make a small commission on purchases made after clicking the link. For more information visit the Privacy and Disclosure Policy.

Being a traveller herself, she designed The Travel Hack backpack to be functional and stylish for women. What’s more, is it within the dimensions of Ryanair’s underseat cabin baggage allowance, so it flies for free !

Travel Hack Backpack

🎒Dimensions: 40x25x20

⚖️Weight: 0.6kg | Capacity: 20l

💻Laptop compartment: Up to 13″

⭐️Perfect for: Day trips, mini breaks or weekend getaways, on its own. Or paired with additional luggage for longer trips.

Travel Hack Stowaway Ladies Cabin Backpack

The Travel Hack backpack is made to a very high quality. I like the way it’s black and smart looking, making it practical for a wide range of uses. It comes with a leather look luggage tag and a tassel. For my personal preferences I removed the tassel. However, I kept the tag on so it looks more luggage like, rather than just another backpack!

It also has rose gold zips as well as a small ‘The Travel Hack’ engraved rose gold metallic plate on the front. The zips on the main compartment are large enough to get a padlock through if you felt like locking the main compartment. Sometimes I will do this when walking around busy cities on my own.

On the back is a strap, so the backpack can be slid over a suitcase handle . (I’ve been extremely tempted by the matching Travel Hack Suitcase too. But I don’t tend to use suitcases very often!). The straps and back are padded, making it very comfortable to wear for long amounts of time. The bottom is reinforced a little too!

The shape of the Travel Hack backpack maximises every last centimetre of the Ryanair underseat luggage allowance. Therefore, at time of writing, it flies free ! As Ryanair is one of the stingiest airlines for cabin luggage dimensions, if it fits for them, it’s likely to fit for the majority of other airlines too.

🎬 WATCH : Travel Hack Backpack *Pack With Me* YouTube Short

External Pockets

Not including the main compartment, there are 5 external pockets . Pockets are a MUST for me when looking for a backpack. On the front is a zipped pocket , it’s quite deep but narrow. I find that when the backpack is full, it’s better to have smaller, flatter items in this pocket.

One side has, what is called, a ‘ passport pocket ‘. It’s passport sized but like to keep my important documents in zipped pockets. As someone that loves water sports or going to the beach, I tend to keep a folded plastic bag in this pocket. That way if I end up with wet clothes or towels, I have a way of separating the wet stuff from the dry things!

I love the stretchy, expandable water bottle pocket . It holds my small water bottle without it being expanded. To fit larger bottles it has a zip on one side, creating a more ‘triangular’ shaped pocket. I can often reach round and get the bottle in and out of the pocket, without needing to remove the backpack!

On the back is a laptop compartment . The zip runs from the top of the backpack to the bottom, on one side. I have the 13″ 2020 MacBook Air and it fits perfectly into the pocket. I think it would be a bit of a squeeze if I had a case on it. However, as the backpack has a boxy design, I feel that’s it’s well protected though. My iPad in its keyboard case also fits perfectly.

My favourite pocket is the floating top pocket . It’s quite spacious and this is where I tend to keep stuff that I may want to have quick access to. I find that it’s a good spot to keep my sunglasses!

Main Compartment

The main compartment fully opens, similar to a suitcase. The internal fabric is a pale pink colour. Depending on the type of trip I’m taking I will position the zips differently. If I’m using the backpack more for luggage, I keep the zips together in a corner.

However, if I’m using it for a day trip, where I’m likely to be in and out of it multiple times, I keep them together near the top. More like a typical backpack. Otherwise I’m worried smaller items may fall out as it does open from the bottom corner!

You can also buy a matching Travel Hack packing cube , designed to fit perfectly with the Stowaway backpack (see below).

I don’t tend to use packing cubes in smaller backpacks. I find I can fit more in without them. But as the Travel Hack backpack has a large rectangular internal area and opens like a suitcase, packing cubes do work well!

Internal Pockets

Inside the main compartment are 2 mesh pockets . These are located on the front panel. One at the top, one at the bottom. They are surprisingly large! I find that you need to keep in mind about over filling. Sometimes I end up filling the main area up so much that when I go to zip the front up, the 3D pockets are too full for it to be able to shut properly.

I tend to keep leads or things that I use a lot in the top pocket. When using it as a day bag, it’s helpful having that inside pocket near the top. It’s easy to access things without having to dig around to find things! I find it similar to the floating compartment but slightly more secure as it is ‘hidden’ by another zip.

Using The Travel Hack Backpack

When I fly with Ryanair the Travel Hack backpack is the first bag that I reach for as my cabin bag. It is great for a weekend city break but when I travel for a week or more with only hand luggage, I find that I need something a tiny bit bigger!

As well as international travel, The Travel Hack Backpack is great for UK weekend getaways. I’ve taken it camping, to hotels and when I went to stay with my friend for the weekend. It’s the perfect size for a couple of changes of clothes, pyjamas, camera, my Kindle, some overnight essentials and a few other bits.

Alternatively, it’s great for day trips when you may need some additional bits. Such as I went to the beach on the train I packed a towel and a blanket to sit on etc. When I went away for a week I used it in addition to another bag. The other bag had all my clothes and then I had all my other gadgets and extra bits in my Travel Hack backpack.

The Cabin Max Travel Hack Luggage Range

As well as the Travel Hack Backpack (which now comes in 4 colours: black, olive, navy and leopard), there’s also:

• a cabin suitcase
• a 30l tote bag
• the Travel Hack 30l hybrid trolley backpack
• the Travel Hack packing cube

I really like the look of the Travel Hack 30l hybrid trolley backpack . It’s looks similar to the travel hack backpack but has a capacity that’s 10l bigger and has wheels and a handle!

travel hack packing cube

The Travel Hack packing cube is designed to be paired with the 20l backpack. It comes in the same pale pink colour with rose gold zips. It says it compresses 17l of clothes down to 12l, saving 33% of space!

I used The Travel Hack Compression Packing Cube along with the Cabin Max Metz 30L for a 2 week trip to Zanzibar. You can see how I used the two items together in my Youtube video: Pack With Me | How To Pack For A 2 Week Trip With 1 Under-seat Carry-on Bag . I was able to fit ALL my clothes for a 2 week trip inside the packing cube alone!

Although they are almost the same dimensions, I do find that the packing cube is a bit too big to use with the 20l Travel Hack backpack. It fills up every last bit of space which leaves no room to fill the internal mesh pockets or the floating pockets.

The Cabin Max Travel Hack range can be found on CabinMax.com !

Looking for a larger underseat backpack? Check out: Cabin Max Metz 30 Litre Backpack Review | An Awesome Underseat Bag For A Longer Trip!

So if you are looking for the perfect underseat backpack for female travellers, the Cabin Max Travel Hack backpack should definitely be on your radar!

My travels have taken me to over 40 countries worldwide (& I lived in USA for 4yrs). I hold a BTEC National Diploma in Travel & Tourism (triple distinction) and have been writing on Between England & Everywhere since 2015.

Expert in : Adventure travel 🎢 , beach destinations 🏖️ , and packing light (mid-budget backpacker) 🎒

Found this Travel Hack Backpack review helpful? Pin it for later!

Last Updated on February 11, 2024

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Travel Hack Backpack and Travel Hack Trolley Set

Special Offer if you combine the purchase of the Travel Hack Cabin Backpack (40x20x25cm)and the Travel hack Hybrid Trolley case (45x36x20cm)

• Travel Hack Hybrid trolley-
• Suitable for most major airlines. 30 litre capacity and large suitcase style opening for easy packing.Switch easily between Trolley and Backpack for a seamless travel experience. Front organiser pocket. Laptop compartment for devices up to 13”
• Travel Hack Backpack -
• A stylish, compact ladies travel backpack. Laptop compatible for devices up to 13". 
• Features an easy access top pocket for purses, phones and travel documents.
• Fits the Ryanair 40x20x25cm' free' underseat hand luggage rules. Flies for free on all other known airlines. Lightweight design weighs just 0.6kg.
• 20L internal capacity. Comfortable padded airmesh back panel and straps.
• Showerproof external shell with metallic detailing and eco-leather ID holder
• 3D packing pockets, water bottle holder and strap on the rear panel to combine effortlessly with rolling luggage.

Delivery within the United Kingdom is from just £3.50. Orders over £60 get free UK Delivery.

Protected by the Cabin Max 3 year manufacturing fault warranty.

We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.

All of our fabric bags are hand wash only. We would advise dabbing smaller marks with a cloth dipped in soapy water. Air dry only.

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We know the latest hand luggage requirements and design quality bags and cases to fit. Guaranteed!

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Cabin Max Travel Hack 40cm Cabin Backpack

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Feedback for Black Cabin Max Travel Hack 40cm Cabin Backpack

Great bag. Laptop zip could do with being a tiny bit bigger but is workable.

From United Kingdom

Exactly as described, perfect underseat for Ryanair.

Great bag good quality I bought if to carry the baby's stuff ideal for purpose

It’s a great bag. Made nice and good quality . It has lots of pockets. The zip at the back isn’t big enough for 15 inch laptop but it fits in the main section. I can fit a lot in this bag. I purchased as I need a new cabin bag for our holiday, but I have been using this work, for my laptop and paper, really nice to carry on my back. I think this would make a nice baby bag too.

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Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case Review: Affordable Luxury At Its Best

As soon as I heard about the stylish Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case with an integrated handbag compartment in the top of it, I wanted one.

Thankfully, I have a wonderful husband who bought it for me for my 30th birthday earlier this year!

Scott and I almost always fly hand luggage only. For over six years, I used the same little wheeled suitcase from Tripp. It’s done me well over the years. But it’s quite basic and small, so I thought it was about time I upgraded it.

Along came the Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case … and I am officially in love with it!

If you’ve been thinking about buying the Travel Hack cabin luggage but aren’t sure if it’s worth it, legit or as good as it sounds, then here’s my super detailed Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case review. 

Hopefully, it’ll convince you why you should buy one! Or you could even buy it as a special gift for the travel lover in your life…

The Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case: An Affordable & Super Stylish Luxury Cabin Case

NB: This review is for the Cabin Max Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case , which is the second version of the Travel Hack Cabin Case.

In case you’ve never heard of it, the Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case is a wheeled carry-on suitcase. 

It was designed by Cabin Max (British experts in cabin luggage) in collaboration with Monica from The Travel Hack (a hugely successful full-time travel blogger who definitely knows a thing or two about travelling around the world!)

Just like the rest of Cabin Max’s luggage, the Travel Hack suitcase is designed to fit within most airline’s hand luggage restrictions – and it’s the biggest carry-on luggage you’ve probably ever had!

I was able to take it with us to Croatia for a week and I had a lot of room left over, which I was really surprised about.

But its biggest selling point is the integrated handbag compartment, which is useful for budget airlines like easyJet who only let you have one cabin bag.

With this savvy suitcase, you can quickly pop your handbag in the top of it before boarding and get it back out again as soon as you’re on the plane.

Ultimately, this is a super-stylish luxury cabin case without the hefty price tag! Keep reading for all the reasons why I love this suitcase…

Check prices on Amazon | Check prices on Cabin Max

What I Love About The Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case

Here are all the top things I love about my new Cabin Max Travel Hack cabin luggage…

1. Really useful separate handbag compartment 

We choose to fly with easyJet the most often. But they have a really frustrating policy where you can only take one cabin bag on board with you unless you’ve paid extra. 

The even more annoying thing is that they don’t care what happens to your handbag once you’ve boarded the plane, so you’ll probably be whipping your handbag back out of your suitcase as soon as you’re through the gate!

On our way to Vienna a few years ago, I remember trying to squeeze my handbag into my tiny suitcase while trying very hard not to crush everything or break it in front of a rather bemused easyJet employee. I just managed it but it was a struggle. 

So when I heard about the Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case with integrated handbag compartment, I was instantly intrigued! And having now used it on our most recent trip, it’s even more useful than I thought!

First off, it’s a bigger compartment than I originally thought. I managed to fit my crossbody bag, toiletries, headphones, laptop charger, large hardback book and travel wallet inside it… and I still had some room left over for a few extra bits and bobs like a pack of cards and some snacks. 

Everything that I thought would need to go through security separately or that I might have wanted during the flight fitted easily into that top compartment.

I can’t tell you enough how much that made going through security a total breeze! I was even patting non-existent pockets in my trousers because I was shocked at how quickly I’d gotten everything onto the conveyor belt!

The handbag compartment also has a couple of clips attached to the inside of it, which you can use to secure your handbag if you’re worried about someone unzipping the top of it and running off with your valuables.

The other cool thing about the handbag compartment is that if you’re travelling with an airline that allows you to have more than one bag, or you’re taking the suitcase away on a road trip with you so it doesn’t matter how many bags you have, then the handbag compartment can be changed and made to be a part of the main compartment if you want instead. You just have to undo the velcro on a couple of straps and remove the dividing shelf!

2. It’s cabin-sized but still really big

At 55x40x20cm, this suitcase is designed to fit within most airline’s cabin bag restrictions. But it’s also probably one of the biggest carry-ons you’ve ever had. 

I was shocked at the size of it when I unwrapped it and even triple-checked the size myself as I didn’t believe it would be allowed. 

But nope… I used it when we flew to Croatia for a week with easyJet and no one batted an eye!

You’ll need ‘Priority Boarding’ to use it on Ryanair, but you should be able to use it with other airlines without any problems.

One of the genius ways Cabin Max and The Travel Hack have kept the bag within guidelines is that the handle is built into the back of the suitcase and is telescopic, so it folds down twice and into a zipped pocket. Smart, eh?

3. Pockets and compartments galore!

I knew this suitcase had a bunch of pockets and compartments before I asked for it for my birthday, but I didn’t realise just how many it had! 

There’s the revolutionary handbag compartment on the top, the 28-litre main luggage compartment, a padded laptop compartment on the back, a water bottle holder on the side, which zips closed when not in use or when you need to prove to an airline that the suitcase fits within the measuring bin and five good-sized zipped pockets:

• One zipped pocket plus two other slip pockets in the handbag compartment
• Three zipped pockets in the main compartment (one on the side of the case and two on the door flap; one of which is padded)

The main compartment also has packing straps for keeping your clothes in place. There’s also a zipped compartment at the bottom, which hides the suitcase’s handle.

But you could also use this section to zip your clothes into to help keep them flat or hide sensitive things inside that you don’t want security staff to have to rifle through if your bag beeps during security.

All of this makes packing and keeping your stuff separate super easy so that you can find everything at your hotel quickly. Yay! More time for sightseeing is always good!

There’s even a couple of clips on the outside of the suitcase, which you could attach your travel pillow and luggage tag to. 

Psst! If you’re also on the lookout for a super stylish luggage tag to go with your new suitcase, then have you seen these personalised leather ones on Etsy ? Scott and I have a set and they are seriously classy (and just as affordable!)

4. Laptop compartment

As a travel blogger, my laptop follows me everywhere I go. So having a laptop compartment as part of my cabin luggage is important to me. Thankfully, the Travel Hack suitcase has one!

It’s a fantastic size (my 15.6 inch laptop easily fits in with lots of room leftover for magazines or anything else that lies flat) and is padded to help protect your laptop. 

However, I think it’s a shame that the laptop compartment is on the back of the suitcase. If you have to lie your suitcase on its back or if it falls over, then your laptop would bear the weight of the full suitcase. It’s also only padded on the outer side.

So if you’re going to use that compartment for your laptop, you might want to also put it inside its own protective case. There’s plenty of room for this extra padding!

5. Beautiful stylish design

I’m a total sucker for rose gold anything so I adore that all the zips are in rose gold, which looks striking against the plain black.

The suitcase also has a couple of faux leather inserts and quilted fabric details, which also add to the luxurious feel of this stunning suitcase.

6. Affordable luxury cabin suitcase

You might think that all these revolutionary features and stunning design mean the suitcase comes with a hefty price tag. 

But at under £100/$100, I’m calling this an affordable luxury cabin suitcase for sure!

Buy the Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case on Amazon | Buy the Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case on Cabin Max

What Could Be Improved

As they say, nothing’s perfect. There are a couple of minor things that I think the suitcase could be improved upon (maybe there’ll be a version 3?) 😉

Here’s what I think could be improved and how I’m working around these little niggles…

1. Four wheels instead of two

The suitcase has two wheels so can’t be pulled alongside you like a four-wheeled suitcase can.

This personally doesn’t bother me as I’ve never owned a four-wheeler before, but I can imagine some of you might think this is a deal-breaker.

If that’s the case, have you seen this pretty pink hardshell cabin case ? It has four wheels, several zipped compartments inside and comes highly rated on Amazon.

2. Even more padding for the laptop compartment

Although the laptop compartment is padded, it’s only padded on one side (the outer part). The other part of the laptop compartment is against the hard back of the main luggage compartment. 

I’ve seen a few photos online of people putting their laptops straight into the suitcase. I wouldn’t recommend doing that. 

Instead, pop your laptop in its own protective case – there’s more than enough room inside the laptop compartment for a little extra padding!

3. Design kinks and missed tricks

I love the overall luxury look and feel of the suitcase, but there are a couple of design kinks that I think could be improved:

• The zippers aren’t officially lockable. This isn’t a problem if your suitcase stays with you, but if the flight is busy and you’re asked to put your bag into the hold, then this lack of feature could be a thievery disaster just waiting to happen. What I have been able to do though is thread a padlock through the metal loops that the zip pulls are attached to so this is something that can be easily worked around.
• The tassel was annoying when walking! The Travel Hack branded luggage tag and tassel on the side of the case are a cute design touch. But they kept hitting the back of my legs as I walked (probably because I’ve got short arms so the suitcase has to be a bit closer to me when being pulled it along behind me). This is a tiny niggle though and I’ll probably just cut the tassel off before I use the suitcase again.

Is The Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case Worth It?

In a word, yes. I love this suitcase and I hope that shows from this detailed review of it. If I had to go out and buy another one tomorrow, I honestly would. 

There are so many great features; from the really useful handbag compartment to the fantastic amount of pockets and compartments inside. 

I think the design is stylish and classy (I noticed a couple of women checking out my suitcase as I wheeled it past them!) 

And the price is fantastic for what you get. 

Given this suitcase was designed in collaboration with a blogger and influencer, I was worried they’d hoik the price right up like other brands have done in the past. 

But by keeping it under £100/$100, they’ve achieved something I’m really proud to own: an affordable and super stylish luxury cabin suitcase!

Also On My Wishlist…

To finish, I also wanted to point out that Cabin Max and The Travel Hack have also created some other products together, which you might like.

I also have the Travel Hack Tote Bag , which I’ve reviewed in detail here . And the 20L Travel Hack Backpack ( full review here ). Spoiler: I love them both too!

I also have the Pink Compression Packing Cubes on my wishlist. Apparently, 17 litres of clothing can be compressed into just 12 litres with these packing cubes, which also have a pretty pink and gold design. Check prices on Cabin Max

I’m looking forward to reviewing those as soon as I’ve got my hands on them. So stay tuned!

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my review of the Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case. If you’ve got any other questions, just drop me a line in the comments below and I’ll reply asap! Or… if you’re already the proud owner of this suitcase, I’d love to know what you think of it!

Pin this Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case review now, read it again later!

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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Cabin Max Travel Hack 40cm Cabin Backpack

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Feedback for Cabin Max Travel Hack 40cm Cabin Backpack

Too beautiful

From Castledawson

Great cabin bag backpack, used it on a recent flight. Plenty of room and zip compartments.Would recommend.

This is the perfect overnight back for saving adding a cabin bag on a flight…surprisingly spacious and comfortable to carry around.

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10 Best Carry-On Luggage Options for Travel

By: Author Monica

Categories Travel Tips

When it comes to packing for a weekend break, it’s no secret that travelling with carry-on luggage (instead of – not as well as – a big suitcase that goes in the hold) has loads of advantages.

It’s usually cheaper to travel with just a carry-on as many airlines charge a hefty fee for checked bags. It saves time at your destination because you don’t have to wait at the carousel, and it makes getting around a lot less painful.

But finding carry-on luggage that fits within airlines’ often restrictive rules, that’s good quality, and doesn’t cost a fortune, can be an overwhelming task!

So to help you out, I’ve compiled the 10 best carry-on luggage options, which all fit in airline cabins, and into which you’ll be able to fit everything you need for a weekend city break.

Need help packing? Here are some practical tips from a packing expert .

Before I dive right into my favourite carry-on luggage options though, let’s talk quickly about airline restrictions, shall we?

If you’re travelling within Europe, your biggest struggle will be size, rather than weight. Although some airlines do have weight restrictions on their hand luggage, it’s rare that they enforce it, as they’re more interested in the dimensions of your baggage. So if you have a particularly heavy case just pull it along like you’re not struggling at all and you should be fine – just make sure you can lift it into the overhead lockers yourself and it’s unlikely anyone will notice.

What size carry-on case can I take?

When I originally wrote this article I listed all the hand luggage sizes for most major airlines and it was all fairly simple.

Fast-forward a few years and carry-on luggage is a minefield! 

I recommend checking what size luggage you’re allowed to take directly with the airline you’re flying with.

Budget airlines in the UK also make things even more complicated because many of them allow a small ‘free’ bag which must fit under the seat in front of you. And then you have to pay an additional fee for your carry-on suitcase. So there are two pieces of carry-on luggage to think about!

So do your research and make sure you have the right sized bag.

Here are some of the best carry on luggage options for 2022!

10 Best Carry-On Luggage Options

1. the travel hack pro cabin case.

Best for: Style and ease

For years, I struggled to find a carry-on suitcase that was perfect for me. There were some that came close, but there were always features I wished they’d had, or design flaws that seemed obvious to me. So…I designed my very own cabin case, with a luggage company called Cabin Max!

It’s everything I look for in a case: it fits within most airlines’ size restrictions, it’s pretty (I’m obsessed with that rose gold), it has a laptop sleeve, and it also has a handy top compartment where I can stash my handbag (for airlines like EasyJet who aggressively enforce their one bag policy) or for easy access to all that stuff you have to remove from your case when going through security!

I’ve written about it in more detail here , but basically, it’s no secret that The Travel Hack suitcase is my very favourite carry-on luggage option!

Measurements: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm Weight: 2kg Capacity: 44 litres Price: £49.95 Features: Padded laptop slot, handbag compartment, plenty of pockets.

Here’s a video I made showing you around the new and improved Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case!

2. Level 8 Aluminium Carry on

Best for: Simplicity, style and a hard shell

This gorgeous aluminium case has style and quality written all over it. It feels beautiful and the four spinner wheels make it a dream to push. It comes with double TSA locks and it a lifetime warranty so you know this is a tough little case . This case is too big for Ryanair but fits for many other airlines. It is also heavier than the other cases on this list but if you’re OK with that then it’s worth it for how beautiful it is!

Measurements: 50cm x 44cm x 26cm

Weight: 7.5kg Capacity: 35 litres Price: £224.10 Features: Scratch-resistant hard shell, 360 degree rotating wheels, TSA combination lock.

3. IT Luggage World’s Lightest Cabin Suitcase

Best for: Lightweight

They’re not kidding when they call this luggage the world’s lightest – most carry-on suitcases come in at around the 2-2.5kg mark, but this one’s just 1.6kg, meaning that if you do have weight restrictions on the airline you’re travelling with, this suitcase by IT Luggage is a great option for you.

As well as being lightweight, the case is practical, with three zip-closure pockets on the outside for storing things like toiletries, or whatever you want easy access to once you’re on the flight, plus silent wheels and packing straps inside. The price is light on your wallet, too!

Measurements: 55cm x 35cm x 20cm Weight: 1.6kg Capacity: 38 litres Price: £49.95 Features: Packing straps, front pockets, silent wheels.

4. Tripp Raspberry Holiday Cabin Suitcase

Best for: Fun colour

I’ll admit it was the cheery, bright colour that initially drew me to this carry-on luggage option by Tripp, but it’s a great suitcase that’s just as practical as it is cute.

The first thing to note is that this suitcase comes with a five year guarantee, which means it should last many a trip to come. It’s got a hard shell, four wheels for easy manoeuvrability, a combination lock and a mesh divider inside so the two sides are completely separate.

Measurements: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm Weight: 2.7kg Capacity: 37 litres Price: £42 Features: Combination TSA lock, packing straps, mesh divider.

5. Cabin Max Metz Backpack

Best for: Practical, spacious backpack

OK, let’s talk about backpacks! The best carry-on luggage options aren’t always suitcases – travelling with a backpack has some really great advantages over the traditional case.

Low-cost airlines like Ryanair will often take your suitcase from you at the gate (for no extra charge), but they tend to ignore backpacks and let you take them on with you. There’s no guarantee, of course, but I think it’s worth the risk if you really don’t want to part with your gear. Plus, they’re lighter than suitcases, and easier to carry around.

I often use a backpack like this when I’m travelling with my kids because it’s leaves my hands free and means I can pull my own suitcase and carry their cabin baggage too.

This one by Cabin Max has a 4.5 star rating with a whopping 3,400+ reviews, so it’s safe to say it’s a brilliant choice. Plus, it comes in over 25 different colour options and it’s a budget friendly hand luggage option at just £29.99.

Measurements: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm Weight: 0.7kg Capacity: 44 litres Price: £39.99 (currently reduced to £29.99) Features: Quick-access front pocket, compression straps, 3 year guarantee.

6. The Travel Hack Backpack

Best for: Stylish backpack + ‘free’ bag on all airlines

You’re not meant to have favourites but The Travel Hack Backpack is my favourite in The Travel Hack Luggage range.

This beautiful backpack is both stylish and functional and I’ve used this as my everyday bag every single day since it was released.

It features a:

• Padded laptop compartment (which doubles up as a safe but easily accessible pocket at the back
• Comfortable straps and nicely ventilated back
• Easy to access top pocket for purse/phone/keys etc
• Huge main compartment with mesh pockets
• Fully opens like a suitcase so easy to pack
• Slim front pocket that’s great for documents
• Large water bottle holder on side
• Additional side pocket big enough for a smaller bottle

Measurements: 40cm x 20cm x 25cm Weight: 0.6kg Capacity: 20L Price: £35 Features: Padded laptop pocket, 3D packing pockets, handy pockets for organisation, bottle holder.

7. The Travel Hack Tote

Best for: style, organisation + ‘free’ bag for most airlines

If you like your cabin bag to stay nicely organised then this is the bag for you. The Travel Hack tote has so many handy pockets you’ll have a special place for everything in your hand luggage. The large main pocket is filled with dividers and pockets. It even has a pocket for your hair straighteners in there! There’s a sleeve and safe pocket on the rear which you can use to loop it over your suitcase so it sits nicely on your bigger case.

At the front there are two large hidden pockets which are perfect for documents and those everyday items you’re constantly reaching for.

Measurements: 45 cm x 36cm x 20cm Weight: 0.8kg Capacity: 30 litres Price: £39.95  Features: lots of organisation pockets, hair straighteners pocket

8. Aerolite Holdall

Best for: Budget

If you’re not travelling with a laptop or delicate camera equipment, sometimes a backpack can feel restrictive – all those compartments can make it difficult to pack things like shoes or bulky clothes.

Holdalls and duffel bags are a great solution for fitting as much as possible into a small space, as there’s nothing holding you back from squeezing more in (although if you do like compartments, packing cubes can be handy here). Plus, much like backpacks, the low-cost airlines tend to let you take these on board more often than a traditional suitcase.

This holdall is fairly basic, but it comes with a 2 year guarantee, has a removable shoulder strap, and is only £11.99, making it the most affordable carry-on luggage option on this list.

Measurements: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm Weight: 0.65kg Capacity: 44 litres Price: £6.99 Features: Top carry handle, detachable and adjustable shoulder strap, 2 year guarantee

9. Karabar Berwyn Leather Style Holdall

Best for: Stylish holdall

If you like the idea of a holdall, but want something that looks a bit more business-like, this leather look holdall by Karabar is perfect for you.

It’s smart enough to take to a business meeting without looking like you’ve just come from the gym, it comes with a strap that means it can be attached to a suitcase, and it’s got a zippered front pocket for easy access to your passport. It has fantastic reviews, and the price is great for something that’s so durable.

Personally, I find holdalls a little difficult to travel with because I often overpack and they end up so heavy I struggle to carry them. But if you’re a light packer then this is a lovely option!

Measurements: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm Weight: 0.8kg Capacity: 44 litre Price: £24.99 Features: Adjustable/removable shoulder strap, durable material, fully lined compartment.

10. Tripp Putty Express Large Holdall

Best for: Budget and style

This is the only carry-on luggage option I’ve included that’s slightly over the Ryanair carry-on dimensions (by 2cm). It complies with all of the other airlines I’ve mentioned though, and honestly, in my experience, if you can squish your bag into those measuring cages (which you can with a duffel), they don’t question it. Still. Be warned, it is 2cm over.

This bag looks really sleek and professional, but also has a bit more structure than the classic holdall. Plus, it’s made by reputable luggage brand Tripp, which means it comes with that all-important five year guarantee.

Measurements: 50cm x 34cm x 22cm Weight: 0.9kg Capacity: 28 litres Price: £20 (Currently reduced to £13) Features: 5 year guarantee, smart sleeve, interior pockets.

Do you have a favourite carry-on luggage option?

Read more: Can I take a suitcase backpacking?

The Best Travel Backpacks for Women - Top Ladies Rucksack List

Saturday 6th of October 2018

[…] you’re looking for carry-on luggage that is both functional and stylish, the The Travel Hack Pro Cabin Case by Cabin Max is the way to […]

Thursday 6th of September 2018

Love that this list includes lots of budget-friendly options that won't break the bank. I do have one question though. I love the Travel Hack suitcase you designed and very nearly bought it a few months ago until I saw the reviews, many of which were quite negative about the quality. I'd love to buy your suitcase to support you and because...well...it's pretty (hehe) but I don't want to buy something that is going to break in a few weeks like some of the reviews said. Do you know if the problems around quality were addressed?

A stylish, compact ladies travel backpack. Laptop compatible for devices up to 13". Features an easy access top pocket for purses, phones and travel documents. Fits the Ryanair 40x20x25cm' free' underseat hand luggage rules. Flies for free on all other known airlines. Lightweight design weighs just 0.6kg. 20L internal capacity. Comfortable padded airmesh back panel and straps. Showerproof external shell with metallic detailing and eco-leather ID holder. 3D packing pockets, water bottle holder and strap on the rear panel to combine effortlessly with rolling luggage.

Wipe Clean Only

Something not quite right? You have 28 days from the day you receive it, to send something back.

Please note, we cannot offer refunds on fashion face masks, cosmetics, pierced jewellery, adult toys, and swimwear or lingerie if the hygiene seal is not in place or has been broken.

Items of footwear and/or clothing must be unworn and unwashed with the original labels attached. Also, footwear must be tried on indoors. Items of homeware including bedlinen, mattresses, and toppers, and pillows must be unused and in their original unopened packaging. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Click here to view our full Returns Policy.

Travel Hack 20L Backpack 40x20x25cm

3 interest-free payments of £13.33

4 interest-free payments of £10.00

Flowing Cents

Frequent Flyers Share Their 10 Best Airport Hacks

Posted: March 28, 2024 | Last updated: March 28, 2024

People share a lot of travel hacks on an online platform. Air travel needs tips and hacks to avoid problems and have a smart experience.

1. Free Wi-Fi

Without the internet, it is impossible to proceed to an airport. All the flight details and timings are available online. Thus, people have proper internet packages before leaving for an airport. But some people forget that free Wi-Fi is available in almost all airports. So if one does not have the internet on his phone, he can easily use the free Wi-Fi at the airport.

2. Strong Bags

While traveling in the air, luggage is handed over to the airport workers and cabin crew. They arrange the bags of all passengers in luggage chambers. And while transportation and checking these bags pass through many stages. In all these, some bags get damaged, while others damage others. A hack to save your bag is to purchase a hard bag that can not be destroyed easily.

3. Do a Little Homework

Doing some homework and research before having a flight ticket is necessary. Some airports are large. And they have a bus system to go to other terminals from one terminal. The one who is flying for the time will waste all his time by understanding the terminal locations. In this, he may lose his flight. This homework is compulsory in having connecting flights.

4. Take a Picture of Parking

A parking hack shared by a traveler says to take a picture of your parking car. If one is going on a long trip and has parked his car in airport parking, he may forget the location because hundreds of cars are parked at a time. He can use pictures to find the location to save time and avoid ambiguity.

5. Dress to Egress

A woman shared her traveling hack. She said wearing an easy and formal dress is preferable at the airport. A girl with tight boots will find ease in any emergency case or evacuation. But a girl with high heels will get stuck. Similarly, in the case of fire, the synthetic cloths will melt to the skin. On the other hand, non-synthetic clothes will save the body.

6. Headphone Volume Low

One commentator shared that people use headphones to kill time at the airport. They enjoy the music at a loud volume. And then they miss the announcements of flights. Thus the wise act is to keep one ear free or keep the volume low so that that announcement is audible to the passenger.

7. Lost Chargers

The airport is a place of hustle and bustle. In a hurry, people forget or lose their things. And the charger of mobile phone is a common thing to lose. The passenger who has lost his charger can go to the lost and found section and ask them. The lost things remain there for 90 days. If not found, they must have a spare charger for you.

8. Helpline On-Phone Call

There is a department of helpline at the airport. If any passengers have questions about the flights, routes, and terminals or complain about staff, information, or facilities, they can contact this department. But the waiting line is very long. There are approximately 400 to 600 people. A wise hack is to call the online helpline. They provide the same services but faster.

9. Airport Chapels

Airport chapels are places that are religious and spiritual. But they do not have any religious symbols. These places are made to have comfort and to relax. Almost all big airports have airport chapels. But new passengers do not know about it. They can go there to pass the time till their flight announcement.

10. Keep Essentials With You

The most important tip for the passengers at the airport is here. Sometimes the luggage gets lost or gets late for about 2 to 4 days. Thus one should keep his essentials in his hand-carry bag, such as mobile phones, chargers, precious materials, and cash. 

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