40x20x25 Backpack or Holdall? We Tested Both

With budget airlines like Ryanair tightening their baggage policies, choosing the right cabin bag has never been more important. If you’re wondering whether a 40x20x25 backpack or holdall is the best option for your next trip, you’re not alone. We tested both styles from Cabin Max—a leader in smart cabin luggage—to find out which works best for stress-free travel.

Whether you’re traveling light for a weekend getaway or trying to avoid extra fees, this guide will help you choose the best 40x20x25 bag Ryanair allows—while also comparing it with the slightly larger 40x30x20 bags. We’ll go over comfort, capacity, convenience, and compare options from the Cabin Max 40x20x25 collection and the Cabin Max 40x30x20 line.

---

Why Size Matters: Ryanair’s Baggage Policy

Ryanair’s cabin baggage rules are very specific. Unless you’ve paid for priority boarding, you’re only allowed one small bag with dimensions no larger than 40x20x25cm. That means if your luggage exceeds these limits, you’ll be asked to check it in—often with a steep fee.

This restriction makes the 40x20x25 bag Ryanair-compliant an absolute must. But you don’t have to sacrifice style or practicality. We put several Cabin Max 40x20x25 bags to the test—including both backpacks and holdalls—to see which one offers the best balance of comfort, packing space, and value.

---

Backpack vs. Holdall – What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the testing, let’s break down the basic differences between the two types:

1. 40x20x25 Backpack

• Worn on your back, keeping your hands free

• Better for longer walks in airports or city travel

• Often includes ergonomic straps, padded back panels, and multiple compartments

2. 40x20x25 Holdall

• Handheld or worn over the shoulder

• Typically lighter and more compact

• Easier to store under the seat

• Can be awkward to carry over longer distances

---

Testing the Cabin Max 40x20x25 Backpack

We tested the Cabin Max Mini Metz 40x20x25 backpack, which is tailor-made for Ryanair’s restrictions. Here’s what we found:

✅ Pros:

• Extremely lightweight at just 500g

• Fits comfortably under the seat

• Padded shoulder straps and back panel for support

• Several compartments for organized packing

• Water-resistant material

❌ Cons:

• Less structured, so it may look a bit bulky if overstuffed

• Not ideal for formal travel or business trips

Verdict:

The Cabin Max 40x20x25 backpack is ideal for travelers who want hands-free movement. It’s comfortable for walking around airports or exploring a city after landing. Plus, the multiple compartments make it easy to keep electronics, documents, and snacks organized.

---

Testing the Cabin Max 40x20x25 Holdall

We then tried the Cabin Max Manhattan Stowaway, a stylish 40x20x25 holdall option designed to fit Ryanair’s underseat size. Here’s how it performed:

✅ Pros:

• Sleek, minimal design—perfect for business or weekend trips

• Internal and external pockets for easy access to essentials

• Smart sleeve on the back to attach to a suitcase handle

• Lightweight and easy to stow under seats

❌ Cons:

• Carrying with one shoulder or hand can be tiring for longer walks

• Limited internal structure—may need packing cubes

Verdict:

If you’re heading straight from the airport to a meeting or hotel, the 40x20x25 holdall is stylish and efficient. It slides easily under the seat and looks great with both casual and formal outfits.

---

Backpack 40x20x25 vs. Holdall: The Final Verdict

So, which is better—the 40x20x25 backpack or the holdall?

In short, if you’re planning to walk a lot or want maximum flexibility, go for the Cabin Max 40x20x25 backpack. If you prefer a sleek, stylish option for short trips or business, the Cabin Max holdall is a winner.

---

But What If You Want More Space? Enter the 40x30x20 Bag

Although the 40x20x25 bag is perfect for Ryanair’s free allowance, some travelers might want more space—especially if they’ve upgraded to priority boarding. This opens the door to the 40x30x20 bag category.

These bags are accepted by many budget airlines like Wizz Air and easyJet as cabin luggage, and they give you an additional 10 liters of packing space.

---

Comparing Cabin Max 40x20x25 vs. Cabin Max 40x30x20

The Cabin Max brand also offers a fantastic selection of 40x30x20 bags, which are slightly larger and offer more packing flexibility while still being compact. We tested the Cabin Max Metz 40x30x20 backpack, a bigger sibling of the 40x20x25 version.

Features of the Cabin Max 40x30x20:

• More internal space (up to 30 liters)

• Still compact enough to fit in most overhead bins

• Available in backpack, trolley, and holdall styles

• Perfect for priority boarding travelers or other low-cost airlines

---

Best Options in the Cabin Max 40x30x20 Lineup

1. Backpack 40x30x20

Offers ergonomic design and larger compartments for longer trips. The Cabin Max Metz 30L is a standout pick.

2. Cabin Backpack 40x30x20

This is a great hybrid that blends backpack comfort with the structure of a suitcase.

3. Trolley 40x30x20

If you want to roll instead of carry, the trolley 40x30x20 model gives you the flexibility of wheels with the right dimensions for many airlines.

---

Which One Is Right for You?

Here’s how to choose between a 40x20x25 bag and a 40x30x20 bag:

• Traveling Ryanair with no extras? Go for the Cabin Max 40x20x25 backpack or holdall.

• Booked Priority or flying another airline? Upgrade to a 40x30x20 bag.

• Need hands-free convenience? Choose a backpack 40x30x20 or 40x20x25 backpack.

• Want a sleek option? Pick a holdall or the trolley 40x30x20.

---

Final Thoughts: Our Top Picks

Best Overall 40x20x25 Bag:

• Cabin Max Mini Metz Backpack – light, durable, and Ryanair-friendly

Best Stylish Holdall:

• Cabin Max Manhattan Stowaway – a professional look with travel practicality

Best 40x30x20 Alternative:

• Cabin Max Metz 30L Backpack 40x30x20 – for travelers who need more space

Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Cabin Max has you covered. Their full selection of 40x20x25 bags and 40x30x20 cabin luggage proves you don’t have to compromise on space, style, or convenience.

---

Explore the Collections:

• Browse the full Cabin Max 40x20x25 collection – perfect for Ryanair

• See more from the Cabin Max 40x30x20 lineup – for travelers who pack a bit more

By choosing the right size and style, you can save money on baggage fees and breeze through your journey with ease.