Updated February 2026 · 12 min read
Photo by Lucas Davies on Unsplash
Ryanair enforces some of the strictest carry-on size limits in the airline industry. Most popular travel backpacks—including many advertised as “carry-on sized”—exceed Ryanair’s dimensions and will result in gate fees ranging from €25-€70 per flight.
Quick Verdict
The Problem: That 7.8″ Depth Limit
Most travel backpacks fail Ryanair’s limits because of one dimension: depth. While popular 40L backpacks easily meet the height and width requirements, that shallow 20cm (7.8″) depth restriction eliminates nearly every mainstream option.
Reality check: The Osprey Farpoint 40 measures 9.1″ deep. That’s 1.3 inches over limit—enough to fail the sizing cage every single time.
This isn’t about being slightly over. Ryanair’s gates use physical sizing cages. Your bag either fits through or it doesn’t.
Ryanair’s Two-Tier System
€6-30 Add-On
| Cabin bag | 55×40×20 cm (21.6″×15.7″×7.8″) |
| Weight | 10 kg (22 lbs) |
| Location | Overhead bin |
FREE (Included)
| Small bag only | 40×20×25 cm (15.7″×7.8″×9.8″) |
| Weight | No limit |
| Location | Under seat |
Which Backpacks Actually Fit
The takeaway: Popular 40L backpacks work perfectly on United, Delta, and British Airways but consistently fail Ryanair’s depth check. This is why frequent Ryanair travelers need a dedicated bag.
Our Top Recommendations
Nomatic Travel Backpack 30L
The best balance of capacity, compliance, and quality
The Nomatic 30L is technically 1.2 inches over Ryanair’s depth limit, but its flexible construction compresses when not fully packed. Hundreds of user reports confirm it passes Ryanair’s sizing gates with strategic packing.
- Compresses when not at max capacity
- 20+ organizational pockets
- Premium materials, lifetime warranty
- Works on all airlines
- $250 price point
- Requires strategic packing
- 30L limits 7+ day trips
Cabin Max Metz
Designed specifically for Ryanair’s exact dimensions
Built to Ryanair’s maximum allowed dimensions. It maxes out height and width while staying precisely at the 7.8″ depth limit. No compression strategies or guesswork required—it simply fits.
Best for: Frequent Ryanair travelers on a budget who prioritize guaranteed compliance over premium features. At $60, it pays for itself after just 1-2 avoided gate fees.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Can work if you pack light, but there’s risk
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L exceeds Ryanair’s depth by 2.2 inches. It can work if you pack to 25-28L capacity and use compression straps aggressively—but you’re accepting risk of gate checking.
When to choose this: You fly Ryanair occasionally (not exclusively) + also fly major airlines where 35L is ideal. You value comfort and organization over guaranteed compliance.
What Doesn’t Work
These are excellent backpacks for other airlines—just not Ryanair:
Osprey Farpoint 40 & Fairview 40
Dimensions: 21.3″ × 13.8″ × 9.1″ | Problem: 1.3″ over depth limit
The most popular travel backpacks worldwide. Work perfectly on United, Delta, British Airways—but consistently fail Ryanair’s gates. If you fly mostly major airlines with occasional Ryanair trips, consider checking this bag rather than buying a second one.
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
Dimensions: 22″ × 14″ × 9-12″ | Problem: Exceeds height, width, and depth
Premium option for photographers and tech pros, but too large for Ryanair even when fully compressed.
Making Borderline Bags Work
If your backpack is within 1-2 inches of Ryanair’s limits, these strategies improve your odds:
Pack to 70-80% Capacity
Don’t stuff your 30L bag full. Pack it to 25L and leave room for natural compression.
Use Compression Straps Aggressively
Quality backpacks have internal compression straps. Cinch them down before approaching the gate.
Empty External Pockets
Water bottles in side pockets add to depth. Remove them at the gate and carry separately.
Soft Items in Outer Compartments
Clothes compress better than electronics. Keep compressible items where they can be pressed down.
Test at Home First
Measure your packed bag against Ryanair’s dimensions before the airport. Fix problems at home.
Consider Priority Boarding
Earlier boarding means less scrutiny. Worth the €6-12 if your bag is borderline.
Budget Airline Comparison
Key insight: A backpack that fits Ryanair will also work on WizzAir and typically meets Spirit/Frontier’s free personal item allowance. See our complete airline guide for more details.
Common Questions
Can I use a 40L backpack on Ryanair?
No. Standard 40L travel backpacks (Osprey Farpoint, Fairview, etc.) exceed Ryanair’s 7.8″ depth limit and will be rejected at the gate. Gate fees range from €25-€70. Choose a 30L backpack or Ryanair-specific design instead.
What happens if my bag doesn’t fit?
Gate-checked for €25-€70 depending on route. You’ll collect it at baggage claim, defeating the purpose of carry-on travel and potentially delaying your arrival.
Is Ryanair strict about the 10kg weight limit?
Yes. They enforce both size and weight. Even if your bag fits dimensions, exceeding 10kg (22 lbs) triggers fees. Weigh your bag before the airport.
Will they measure my bag every time?
Enforcement is unpredictable. Some flights check every bag; others only check obvious oversize. Don’t rely on lenient gate agents—pack as if you’ll be measured.
Is buying a Ryanair-specific bag worth it?
If you fly Ryanair 4+ times per year, absolutely. Gate fees accumulate fast. A compliant backpack pays for itself after 2-3 trips. For occasional flyers, consider checking your regular bag or packing lighter.
Bottom Line
If you fly Ryanair 4+ times per year
Buy the Nomatic 30L or Cabin Max Metz. Investment pays for itself in 3-4 flights. Choose Nomatic for premium features across all airlines; Cabin Max for budget compliance.
If you mix Ryanair with major airlines
Get the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and pack conservatively (25-28L) for Ryanair flights. Works everywhere, functions on Ryanair when not fully loaded. Avoids buying two bags.
If you rarely fly Ryanair (1-2 times/year)
Keep your 40L backpack. Either pay the gate check fee or pack everything into a smaller daypack for those specific flights. A dedicated Ryanair bag isn’t cost-effective for occasional use.
Not sure about your current backpack?
Related Guides
Compliance Checker
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Last updated: February 2026
Ryanair policies subject to change. Always verify current limits before traveling.
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