Daily Mail journalists meticulously select and review products featured on our platform. Should you purchase through links provided, we may earn a commission. Navigating airline luggage restrictions, particularly with carriers like EasyJet known for stringent enforcement, demands reliable cabin baggage. The right choice—be it sleek design, lightweight handling, or robust construction—can transform your travel experience from stressful to seamless.
Our Comprehensive Testing Methodology
Daily Mail Travel Writer Jowena Riley leads our evaluation of under-seat and larger carry-on suitcases, alongside holdalls meeting EasyJet's precise dimensions of 45x36x20cm and 56x45x25cm. Our testing extends beyond mere measurements; we simulate real travel scenarios in office environments designed to mimic airport terminals.
We assess each piece through rigorous maneuvers: navigating winding corridors, lifting into overhead rack simulations, and maximizing packing capacity without expansion. Our evaluation criteria include maneuverability, wheel performance, size accuracy, weight distribution, zip durability, handle comfort, compartment organization, and interior layout efficiency.
Additional testing involves repeated packing and unpacking to evaluate structural integrity under pressure, particularly when stored in confined under-seat or overhead locker spaces. We also consider aesthetic appeal, value for money, and overall build quality to provide balanced recommendations for every traveler.
Best EasyJet Cabin Bags 2025
Best Under-Seat Suitcase: Tripp Retro Pewter Underseat Cabin (Dual Wheel)
Rating: ★★★★★
This stylish ABS construction suitcase measures exactly 45x36x20cm, qualifying for EasyJet's free under-seat allowance. Its 26-litre capacity accommodates weekend essentials, while 360-degree wheels ensure smooth airport navigation. The retractable handle offers three height adjustments, particularly beneficial for taller travelers.
What we love: The chic, scratch-disguising chrome finish and surprisingly lightweight empty weight make this case both practical and elegant. The main compartment with adjacent zip-up area organizes belongings effectively, and the integrated TSA lock enhances security.
Considerations: The top handle exhibits slight instability at its extended position, though this hasn't impacted performance during testing. At £39.50, it represents exceptional value for short-haul travelers seeking compact, reliable luggage.
Best Cabin Suitcase: Sara Miller Botanic Cabin Case
Rating: ★★★★★
Measuring 54x36x20cm, this polycarbonate/ABS shell case offers 29 litres of capacity with exquisite botanical patterning inside and out. Multiple internal compartments and zippers provide superior organization compared to standard cases.
What we love: The elegant design with gold-accented handles and zips exudes sophistication, while the thick, quality lining ensures durability. Smooth wheel performance complements the aesthetic appeal.
Considerations: The handle demonstrates some wobble when bearing heavier loads, potentially affecting stability. Priced at £159 from John Lewis, it suits travelers prioritizing style alongside functionality.
Best Holdall: Vela 24L Cabin Bag Holdall
Rating: ★★★★★
This soft-shell polyester holdall maximizes Ryanair's carry-on restrictions at 40x30x20cm while remaining EasyJet-compliant. Its 24-litre capacity accommodates three-day trip essentials including laptops, clothing, and toiletries.
What we love: Sturdy construction securely holds numerous items, while multiple compartments optimize space utilization. The reasonable £24.95 price point from Amazon offers excellent value.
Considerations: The single shoulder strap, despite padding, can feel burdensome with heavier loads during extended carrying periods.
Best Backpack: Cabin Max Metz 30L Hybrid Backpack
Rating: ★★★★★
This 600D polyester hybrid meets EasyJet's 45x36x20cm under-seat allowance while offering dual carrying modes: backpack straps and trolley handle with wheels. Concealed straps behind a velcro flap provide clean aesthetics when used as trolley luggage.
What we love: The versatile hybrid design adapts to different travel scenarios, from airport sprints to leisurely navigation. At £39.95 from Cabin Max, it delivers smart functionality for compact travel.
Considerations: The 30-litre capacity may challenge those packing bulkier items, while the handle extension might suit taller travelers less comfortably than full-sized trolleys.
Best Compact Suitcase: Flight Knight 8-Wheel Carry-on Case
Rating: ★★★★★
This 19-litre hard-shell case measures 40x30x20cm, complying with 109 airlines including EasyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, and TUI. Eight wheels provide exceptional stability, while internal compartments feature elastic straps and zipped sections for organization.
What we love: The modern, sleek design ensures stylish airport transit, while the adjustable telescopic handle enhances maneuverability. The combination lock adds security for peace of mind.
Considerations: The hard-shell construction results in slightly heavier weight compared to fabric alternatives of similar dimensions. Available from Amazon at £39.99.
Most Affordable Suitcase: Tripp Holiday Cabin Suitcase
Rating: ★★★★★
This 100% polypropylene hard-shell case offers 25 litres capacity within EasyJet's 45x36x20cm restrictions. Four-wheel gliding ensures steady movement even over uneven surfaces, while the slate grey exterior with dark brown lining presents premium aesthetics.
What we love: The scratch-resistant material and five-year guarantee provide long-term value, while the £45 price point from Next makes quality luggage accessible.
Considerations: Strict adherence to size limits sacrifices some packing space that larger cabin bags might offer. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking durable, compliant luggage.
Best Children's Suitcase: Anode Bop Children's 30L Underseat Small Suitcase
Rating: ★★★★★
Specifically designed for young travelers, this robust ABS shell case measures 45x36x20cm with 24-litre capacity. Bright color options—Aquabop, Lunabop, and Sunnybop—appeal to children while ensuring visibility.
What we love: The lightweight 2.2kg construction allows children to manage their own luggage, while internal straps and zipped sections maintain organization. Smooth wheels and comfortable handles enhance usability.
Considerations: Limited space may restrict longer trips, while bright colors might show scuffs more readily. Priced from £40 at Cabin Max, it's perfect for family travel and short breaks.
Prestige Pick for Women: Briggs & Riley Global 53cm Carry-On Expandable Spinner
Rating: ★★★★★
This premium recycled PC/polyester suitcase expands to offer 25% additional capacity through CX® technology, compressing back to original dimensions of 53.3x38.1x22.9cm. The elegant plum color complements sophisticated travel needs.
What we love: Exceptional organization features include compression panels, garment folders, and accessory pockets. The lifetime "Simple as That" warranty covers airline damage, making this £569 investment from Briggs & Riley worthwhile for frequent travelers.
Considerations: The 3.9kg weight reflects its durable construction, while the premium price positions it as a serious investment rather than casual purchase.
Prestige Pick for Men: Briggs & Riley Large Spinner Brief
Rating: ★★★★★
This 800D nylon ballistic brief measures 38.1x44.5x24.8cm, fitting EasyJet's overhead cabin specifications. Three sections organize business essentials, including dedicated space for laptops up to 17 inches.
What we love: Excellent compartmentalization separates organizers, main storage, and tech sleeves. 360-degree wheels facilitate navigation through crowded spaces, while the lifetime warranty justifies the £499 investment from Briggs & Riley.
Considerations: The 3.9kg weight exceeds ultra-light alternatives, and the premium price suits regular business travelers rather than occasional users.
Our Verdict and Travel Recommendations
For stress-free under-seat travel, the Tripp Retro Pewter Underseat Cabin (Dual Wheel) emerges as our top recommendation. Its perfect compliance with EasyJet's free allowance, smooth rolling capability, polished appearance, and fee-avoidance reliability make it an outstanding choice.
Travelers seeking elevated experiences should consider the Briggs & Riley Global 53cm Carry-On Expandable Spinner Suitcase in Plum. Meeting EasyJet's larger paid cabin size, it delivers exceptional build quality, expandable space, and lifetime guarantee—a genuine investment for frequent flyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What luggage is allowed on EasyJet for free?
EasyJet permits one free under-seat bag per passenger, which must fit beneath the seat ahead. This includes small cabin suitcases, backpacks, or compact holdalls adhering to airline size limits. Larger items require additional cabin bag purchase or hold check-in.
What’s the best bag type for EasyJet under-seat travel?
Structured under-seat cabin cases or compact backpacks prove most effective. Wheeled options like the Tripp Retro facilitate airport mobility, while soft backpacks and holdalls offer flexibility for squeezing into tight under-seat spaces during full flights.
How can I simplify packing for EasyJet?
Strategic planning is essential. Select luggage specifically designed for under-seat or cabin dimensions, utilize packing cubes to maximize space, and prioritize versatile clothing. Bags with multiple compartments keep essentials accessible, particularly valuable for short-haul trips where mid-flight case access is undesirable.
Why Trust Our Recommendations
Our travel writing team possesses extensive experience testing products and composing reviews across numerous categories. With specialized focus on travel equipment like suitcases, we provide authoritative guidance on traveler necessities. Our reviews maintain honesty, impartiality, and real-world testing foundations, considering diverse budgets and lifestyles to ensure informed purchasing decisions.
