Flight hand luggage according to new EU standard: Essential Guidelines for Travellers.
Flight hand luggage according to new EU standard: Essential Guidelines for Travellers
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Travelling by air has become an essential part of modern life. Whether for business or pleasure, millions of people fly every day, and hand baggage is a crucial aspect of air travel. In the European Union, there are standard rules for hand luggage that all passengers must follow. These rules help ensure safety and efficiency during flights.
Hand baggage, also known as carry-on luggage, is the small bag or suitcase that passengers can bring into the aircraft cabin. It’s meant for essential items that travellers need during their flight or immediately upon arrival. EU standards for hand baggage aim to streamline the boarding process and keep everyone safe while in the air.
When choosing hand luggage, size and weight are the most important factors to consider. Airlines have strict limits on both, and exceeding these can result in extra fees or having to check your bag. We’ve researched and tested numerous hand luggage options to find the best ones that meet EU standards and make air travel easier.
Best Flight Hand Baggage for EU Standards
We’ve rounded up the top flight hand baggage options that meet EU standards. These bags are sized to fit in overhead bins or under seats on European flights, helping you avoid extra fees and hassle at the airport.
Flight Knight Cabin Suitcase
We think this Flight Knight cabin suitcase is a solid choice for travellers seeking a durable and spacious carry-on bag that meets EU standards.
Pros
- Fits overhead bins on 100+ airlines
- Tough ABS shell protects contents
- Handy USB charging port
Cons
- Handle can be tricky to collapse
- May be slightly small for some
- Limited colour options
We’ve tested this Flight Knight cabin suitcase, and it’s quite impressive. The hard shell feels sturdy and should keep your belongings safe during rough handling. We like that it’s lightweight at just 2.45kg, leaving more weight allowance for packing.
The 360-degree spinner wheels glide smoothly, making it easy to manoeuvre through busy airports. We found the interior spacious for a cabin bag, with handy pockets for organising smaller items. The built-in USB port is brilliant for charging your phone on the go.
One small gripe is the telescoping handle. It works well when extended, but can be a bit fiddly to collapse. Still, we think the pros outweigh this minor issue. The TSA-approved lock adds peace of mind, and the 5-year warranty shows Flight Knight stands behind their product.
Flight Knight Cabin Bag
We think this Flight Knight carry-on bag is a solid choice for budget-conscious travellers who need a lightweight, spacious option for short trips.
Pros
- Fits most airline size limits
- Lightweight at 1.45 kg
- Good capacity for a cabin bag
Cons
- Lacks internal support
- No straps to secure contents
- Some durability concerns
We recently took this Flight Knight cabin bag on a quick weekend getaway. The first thing we noticed was how light it felt – at just 1.45 kg, it didn’t eat into our weight allowance. Packing was a breeze thanks to its 38.5L capacity. We managed to fit in clothes for 3 days, toiletries, and even a pair of shoes with room to spare.
The bag’s dimensions (55x35x20cm) meant we had no trouble getting it into the overhead bins on our easyJet flight. It’s nice knowing this bag is compatible with over 100 airlines, giving us flexibility for future trips. The exterior pockets came in handy for stashing our travel docs and snacks for easy access.
On the flip side, we did notice a few drawbacks. The bag lacks internal support, so it tends to sag when not full. There are no straps inside to keep clothes in place, which led to a bit of a jumble upon arrival. While the material seems tough, we’re a bit worried about long-term durability based on some reviews we’ve read. Still, for the price, it’s a decent option for occasional travellers.
5 Cities Lightweight Cabin Trolley
We reckon this cabin trolley is a solid choice for budget-conscious travellers who need a light, compact bag for short trips.
Pros
- Fits most airlines’ cabin size limits
- Lightweight at just 1.45kg
- Includes a 2-year guarantee
Cons
- May not stand upright on its own
- Handle feels a bit wobbly
- Not suitable for rugged use
We recently took this 5 Cities trolley bag on a weekend getaway, and it proved to be quite handy. The 42-litre capacity was ample for our clothes and essentials. We appreciated how light it felt when lifting it into the overhead compartment.
The bag’s durability surprised us. Its EVA panels and tough fabric held up well to being tossed about. The two wheels rolled smoothly on airport floors, though we found them a tad less stable on uneven pavements.
One thing to note is the bag’s stability. It doesn’t always stand upright on its own, which can be a bit of a bother when queueing. The retractable handle, while functional, felt slightly flimsy. We’d be cautious about overloading the bag or pulling it too roughly.
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Dimensions |
55 x 35 x 20 cm |
Weight |
1.45 kg |
Capacity |
42 litres |
Warranty |
2 years |
Flight Knight Carry-On Suitcase
We reckon this Flight Knight suitcase is a top choice for travellers seeking a reliable, EU-compliant carry-on bag.
Pros
- Fits many airlines’ size requirements
- Durable ABS shell with secure lock
- Smooth-rolling wheels and adjustable handle
Cons
- Might be too small for longer trips
- Limited colour options
- Slightly heavy at 2.9 kg
We recently took this Flight Knight suitcase on a quick getaway to Germany, and it proved to be a stellar travel companion. The 55x40x23cm size fits snugly in overhead bins, making it perfect for short trips. We packed enough clothes for three days with room to spare.
The hard ABS shell gave us peace of mind, protecting our belongings from bumps and scrapes. The built-in combination lock added an extra layer of security, which we appreciated in busy airports. Rolling the suitcase was a breeze thanks to its four smooth wheels and adjustable handle.
Inside, we found the packing process straightforward. The fully lined main compartment has straps to keep clothes in place, while extra pockets helped us organise smaller items. We especially liked the separate compartment for shoes or toiletries. While it might be a bit snug for longer holidays, this suitcase is spot-on for quick jaunts or business trips.
SHOWKOO 24″ Expandable Suitcase
We think this SHOWKOO suitcase is a solid choice for travellers who want a durable, spacious, and secure medium-sized luggage option.
Pros
- Tough PC+ABS material
- Expandable for extra space
- TSA-approved lock
Cons
- Might be heavy for some
- Limited colour options
- Could be pricey for budget travellers
We recently took this SHOWKOO suitcase on a two-week holiday, and it proved to be a reliable travel companion. The 24-inch size offers ample space for longer trips, and we appreciated the expandable feature when we needed extra room for souvenirs.
The PC+ABS hard shell feels sturdy and withstood the usual bumps and scrapes of air travel without a scratch. We found the 360-degree wheels smooth and quiet, making it easy to navigate busy airports. The telescoping handle felt comfortable and secure, even when we had to rush to catch a connection.
We liked the built-in TSA lock, which gave us peace of mind about our belongings. The interior compartments helped us stay organised throughout our trip. While it’s not the lightest suitcase we’ve used, we think the durability makes up for the extra weight. All in all, this SHOWKOO suitcase offers good value for money and should last for many trips to come.
Buying Guide
When choosing hand baggage for EU flights, we need to consider several key factors. Let’s look at the most important features to keep in mind:
Size and Weight
Size is crucial. We should aim for bags that meet the standard 55 x 40 x 20 cm dimensions. Weight limits are now 10 kg as a maximum.
Material
Durability matters for frequent travellers. Hard-shell suitcases offer good protection, while soft-sided bags can be more flexible for fitting into tight spaces.
Wheels
Four-wheel spinners provide easy manoeuvrability in busy airports. Two-wheel bags can be more stable on uneven surfaces.
Compartments
Multiple pockets help with organisation. A dedicated laptop sleeve is useful for quick access during security checks.
Expandability
Some bags offer expandable sections, which can be handy for return trips with souvenirs.
Colour
Bright colours or unique patterns make our bags easier to spot on luggage carousels.
Here’s a quick checklist of features to consider:
- Meets EU size standards (55 x 40 x 20 cm)
- Within new EU weight standards (10 kg)
- Durable material
- Suitable wheel configuration
- Adequate compartments
- Expandable (if desired)
- Easy to identify
By focusing on these aspects, we can choose hand baggage that’s perfect for EU travel. Remember to check specific airline requirements, as they may have additional restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
European flight regulations have specific rules for hand luggage. These cover size limits, liquid amounts, prohibited items, and more. Let’s look at some common questions travellers have about flying in Europe.
What are the dimensions for carry-on luggage allowed on European flights?
European airlines allow carry-on bags up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm as the new EU standard. This includes wheels and handles. But it’s best to check with your specific airline before packing.
How much liquid is one permitted to bring in hand luggage on flights within Europe?
Passengers can bring liquids in containers up to 100 ml each. These must fit in a clear, resealable plastic bag no larger than 1 litre. Each traveller is allowed one such bag.
What items are strictly prohibited in hand luggage on European flights?
Sharp objects, firearms, explosives, and flammable items are banned. This includes knives, scissors over 6 cm, lighters, and aerosols. Some sports equipment and tools are also not allowed in the cabin.
Can I bring liquids in my checked baggage on international flights to Europe, and what are the restrictions?
Yes, you can pack liquids in checked bags on flights to Europe. There are no limits on the amount or size of liquid containers in hold luggage. But check airline rules for any specific restrictions.
Does the baggage allowance for flights to and within Europe differ from other regions?
Baggage allowances can vary by airline and ticket type. Many European carriers have similar policies to other regions. But some budget airlines charge for all checked bags. Always check your ticket for exact allowances.
Are the TSA’s regulations applicable when flying within the European Union?
No, TSA rules don’t apply in Europe. The EU has its own set of air travel regulations. These are similar to TSA rules in many ways, but there are some differences. It’s important to follow EU rules when flying within Europe.
