Airline sized cabin backpacks like this MATEIN sit in the same space as budget travel favourites from Cabin Max and Aerolite, aiming to maximise what you can take onboard without paying for hold luggage. The headline here is the Ryanair friendly 40 x 30 x 20cm footprint, which is intended to slide under the seat as your personal item, while still giving you a rucksack format that is easier to carry through airports than a small suitcase.

Who is this for?

It suits weekend breaks, city trips and commuting, especially if you want one bag that can switch between “strict personal item” mode and a slightly roomier carry when the airline rules allow. The expandable design is useful if you tend to return with more than you left with, but you will still need to keep an eye on size when fully packed.

  • 40 x 30 x 20cm sizing for underseat travel on Ryanair style personal item allowances
  • Expandable capacity to flex between lighter packing and bulkier loads
  • Rucksack carry to keep hands free at boarding gates and on public transport