Cabin luggage has become the perfect ally for those seeking comfort and efficiency when travelling. Avoiding waiting at the baggage carousel and the possibility of additional charges makes choosing a good cabin suitcase crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you choose the ideal cabin luggage and give you tips to make your trip as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
What is Cabin Baggage?
Definition and Standard Dimensions
Cabin baggage, also known as hand luggage, is the luggage you take with you on the plane and is stored in the overhead compartments or under the seat. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) recommendations, the standard dimensions of a cabin bag are 55 x 35 x 20 cm. However, each airline may have variations in their policies, so it is essential to check the specific measurements before travelling. For example, low-cost airlines such as Ryanair or EasyJet are often stricter with the dimensions and weight allowed for cabin baggage. You can find a selection of cabin baggage sizes here. cabin bags that comply with these rules and that will help you avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport.Airline Regulations: What You Need to Know
Each airline sets its own rules regarding cabin baggage, and it is essential to know them before flying. While some allow one suitcase and one personal item, others are more restrictive. For example, Ryanair allows one small backpack (30 x 20 x 20 cm) in addition to the cabin bag, while other airlines such as Vueling or Iberia have slightly more flexible policies regarding weight and dimensions. It is important to comply not only with dimensions, but also with weight. Most airlines allow a maximum of 10 kg for hand luggage, although some reduce this limit to 8 kg. To avoid problems, consider using a mini scale for suitcases, which will help you check the weight of your luggage before leaving home.Differences between cabin baggage and checked bags
The main difference between cabin luggage and checked bags is size and handling. Checked bags are sent to the cargo hold of the plane and will not be available during the flight, while cabin luggage is kept with you. Additionally, checked bags can be larger in size and weight, ideal for long trips or when you need to carry more belongings. If you are planning a longer trip or one with multiple destinations, you may need a larger size. large suitcase either median, depending on your needs. However, if you prefer to travel light and avoid the risk of losing or damaging your luggage, opting for a cabin suitcase may be the best option.How to Choose the Perfect Cabin Suitcase
Materials: Which is the Strongest?
When choosing a carry-on suitcase, the material is one of the most important factors to consider. Suitcases can be made of rigid, semi-rigid or soft materials, each with its own advantages.- Hard case suitcases: They offer maximum protection for your belongings, making them ideal if you carry fragile items or electronics. However, they tend to be a bit heavier and less flexible in terms of capacity. You can find sturdy and stylish options in Misako's hard-shell suitcase section.
- Semi-rigid suitcases: They combine the strength of hard suitcases with the flexibility of soft suitcases, making them a balanced option for most travelers.These suitcases are made of fabric or soft plastic, allowing for some expansion when needed.
- Soft suitcases: They are the lightest and most flexible, ideal for those who need to maximize space and do not carry delicate objects. In addition, they are easier to accommodate in small spaces.
Weight and Capacity: Key Factors for Your Comfort
The weight of your suitcase is crucial, especially when airlines have strict limits. A lightweight suitcase will allow you to carry more items without exceeding the allowed limit. Consider that the weight of the suitcase itself can vary from 2 to 4 kg, which leaves a small margin for your belongings. Misako's small suitcases They offer an ideal balance between lightness and capacity, ensuring that you can carry everything you need without compromising comfort.Design and Style: Functionality with Elegance
In addition to functionality, the design and style of your suitcase also matters. A well-designed suitcase is not only easy to handle, but also complements your personal style. Misako’s cabin suitcase options combine elegance and practicality, with features such as spinner wheels, telescopic handles and clever compartments to make your travel easier.What to Pack in Your Cabin Baggage?
List of Essentials for Any Trip
When it comes to cabin luggage, every inch counts. That's why it's essential to only bring what's necessary. Here's a list of essentials you should consider:- Personal documentation (passport, tickets, etc.)
- Chargers and electronic devices
- Travel size toiletries
- Basic and comfortable clothing for the duration of the trip
- A good book or entertainment for the flight
Prohibited Liquids and Objects: Avoid Surprises at the Control
The regulations regarding liquids and objects in cabin baggage are strict. Remember that liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and all must fit into a transparent 1-litre bag. In addition, certain objects such as scissors, blades or flammable liquids are completely prohibited. Check the specific regulations of your airline to avoid any inconvenience at security control.Interior Organization: Tips to Maximize Space
Organisation is key to maximising space in your carry-on bag. Use compression bags for clothes and make sure you use every corner of your suitcase. Also, consider bringing a foldable easy bag that doesn't take up space but can be unfolded if you need more capacity during your trip.Tips for Traveling Without Checking In
How to Pack Efficiently: Step-by-Step Guide
Packing efficiently is an art. Start by making a list of everything you need and then select only the essentials. Roll clothes instead of folding them to save space and avoid wrinkles, and place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase to balance the weight. Check out our step-by-step guide to packing like a pro.Tips to Avoid Overcharges at the Airport
To avoid extra charges at the airport, make sure your suitcase complies with the permitted dimensions and weight. A good trick is to wear the bulkiest clothes during the flight to save space in your suitcase. You can also use the pockets of your clothes to carry small personal items and thus free up space in your cabin luggage.When is it advisable to carry only cabin luggage?
Carrying only cabin luggage is a great option for short trips or when you have multiple destinations. It allows you greater mobility and avoids the risk of lost luggage. However, if you are planning a long trip or need to carry special items, it may be more convenient to check a bag. Always consider the nature of your trip and choose the option that best suits your needs. Basically, There are two parameters that will allow us to choose suitable cabin luggage: the duration of the trip and the airline chosen to do so.However, it is quite a feat to try to undertake a trip of more than 4 days carrying only cabin luggage.Hand luggage size limitations
Some time ago, the IATA (International Air Transport Association) has proposed an optimal size for the suitcase that we can take on board any aircraft, although each company sets its maximum measurements (normally with more tolerance than the restrictive 55 x 35 x 20 cm of IATA), which means that Any suitcase that meets IATA “Cabin OK” measurements will be accepted as carry-on luggage on major airlines:Carry-on baggage weight limits
The other headache with our hand luggage is controlling the weight: most airlines will not allow more than 10kg in the cabin bag and some even reduce the limit to 8kg. According to a study by our colleague Vanessa Rabaneda, the ideal luggage for spending 3 or 4 days away from home is around 7 kilos in weight (including outfits, book, mobile phone charger and mega-toilet bag ;) ), which together with the approximately 2 kilos of weight of the suitcase itself, means that we do not have to worry too much if we are moderate when preparing our luggage. In any case, the concern about weight is nothing that we cannot prevent and solve by carrying around This mini luggage scale. In order to avoid any doubts or unforeseen events before embarking on your trip, it is best to consult the specific measures of each airline (updated); here are the main ones:- Ryanair hand luggage restrictions
- Vueling hand luggage restrictions
- TAP hand luggage restrictions
- Iberia hand luggage restrictions
- Easyjet hand luggage restrictions
- Air Europa hand luggage restrictions
- Air France hand luggage restrictions
Having trouble deciding? Choose your ideal suitcase in 3 steps:
It is important not to neglect the choice of the number of wheels: a suitcase with 4 wheels is to be carried on the side, on the 4 wheels and normally to be moved on the smooth floors of airports; If we decide to carry our brand new 4-wheel suitcase tilted and resting all its weight on 2 of them, it is very likely that it will stop being new immediately. It's just the trolley 2-wheeled, which can move inclined behind us and is ideal for use on uneven ground, such as sidewalks or cobblestones.Additional hand luggage
Additionally, the main European airlines allow us to carry a backpack, a large bag or briefcase, as long as its dimensions are not excessive (Ryanair allows 30 x 20 x 20 cm) and it can be stored under the seat. There is a wide variety of accessories that can serve as useful travel companions:- Backpacks
The most practical fashion accessory of the season is here to stay.In addition to being able to fit into any sport-chic look, if we opt for the backpack we will have extra storage space for almost everything we need on board. The hardest part will be deciding on just one: Misako backpacks- Weekend bags (travel bags)
The perfect companion in any cabin: the weekend bag is much more than just a large handbag: it has two main compartments, plenty of interior space and a number of pockets and compartments. Whether carried by hand or with a shoulder strap, it is without a doubt the most practical option. Judge for yourself: Misako weekend bags- Laptop bag
If our inseparable travel companion is the computer, then we have to take advantage of the opportunity to show off our style without hesitation and thank our computer for all the work it does for us: Can you choose just one?- Waist bags
These small waist packs help us to keep the most necessary things close at hand: documentation and money, just a zip away from our hands. Of course, it won't count as extra bulk for hand luggage and the utility it offers us will be very appreciated during airport walks. And for the more cautious, there are even ultra-secret security ones; take a look: Misako waist bags- Easy bags (foldable bags)
They are the toothbrush of luggage: essential, useful and small in equal parts. must inside our suitcase that, as Carla says in the video, It will allow us to have an extra bag but taking up zero space.: Misako Easy bagsOther travel accessories
Accessories are an ideal option to make our cabin luggage even more practical. They are a series of light accessories that have the most practical features for our trips and excursions. There are travel scales; padlocks and straps that provide extra security to our suitcase or security belt bags, which are a very suitable accessory if you are looking to protect your documentation from possible theft. The suitcase cover protects the exterior of your luggage from possible damage and with the additional bag, you can carry some extra luggage whenever you need it. Also, the identifiers They will be very useful when it comes to distinguishing your suitcase from other similar ones and preventing it from getting lost.- TSA padlock
TSA padlocks are security locks approved by the Transportation Security Administration from the United States and are the only ones that guarantee that, in case the US customs authorities decide to inspect the inside of our suitcase, they will do so by opening and closing the padlock correctly. The TSA approval is marked (both on padlocks and on numerical locks) by a red rhombus on a white background, as you can see in our Dora lock:- Luggage strap (luggage strap)
Add extra security to your suitcase's closure and prevent a broken zipper from making you suffer for your luggage. Also, give your suitcase a distinctive touch to identify it more easily with the Misako Dora Luggage Strap