Traveling with hand luggage only: 7 useful tips

Traveling with only hand luggage is cheaper, you go through security faster and it saves a lot of dragging. However, it does require a strict packaging policy and the use of smart tricks.

We help you on your way with these handy tips.

Hand luggage dimensions

It is occasionally to get crazy about: the rules for hand luggage and checked baggage. For example, KLM uses 55 x 25 x 35 cm for hand luggage and Transavia has two different sizes: 40 x 30 x 20 cm (guaranteed in the cabin, under your seat), 55 x 35 x 25 cm (not guaranteed, but you can book online). If you fly with easyJet, the sizes 56 x 45 x 25 cm apply (book in advance), a small piece of hand luggage of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (and if it fits under the seat) is always allowed. Ryanair accepts hand luggage measuring 55 x 20 x 40 cm (for a fee) plus a free small (laptop) bag measuring 40 cm x 20 cm x 25 cm. Incidentally, according to the official IATA standards, the length x width x depth of the suitcase including handles and wheels may always be a maximum of 115 cm.

Weight

Also when it comes to hand luggage weight, you get caught up in a forest of different rules and allowed kilograms. With many airlines, the maximum weight for hand luggage is 10 kilos, but if you fly with KLM, you can take 12 kilos of hand baggage with you. With EasyJet, a piece of hand luggage may not weigh more than 15 kilos. Corendon makes packing extra challenging with a maximum of 8 kilos of hand luggage. So always check the current rules of the airline you are flying with.

1. Choose a suitcase (or backpack) with the right dimensions

Priority number one is that you have the perfectly fitting suitcase that meets the hand luggage dimensions. The suitcase or backpack must fit in the overhead lockers of the aircraft. As mentioned, the dimensions are not the same everywhere, but you can roughly assume 55 x 40 x 25 cm, the sizes that apply to most major airlines.

2. Find a suitcase that is ultra-light

Traveling with hand luggage means that every gram counts. When choosing a suitcase, take the weight of the suitcase into account. Now all kinds of suitcase brands have launched special hand luggage models on the market and you have a good, feather-light suitcase range for traveling with hand luggage. So it won’t be a problem to get a good copy. Also important when choosing a suitcase: a good lock, enough storage compartments and a suitcase that can take a beating.

Also read: Flying with a baby: you should take this with you in your hand luggage

3. Check whether you can take a second (small) bag with you

Many airlines allow you to bring a second, small bag for your laptop, camera or other electronics. This saves space in your hand luggage. Check this in advance and use a small daypack that you can use during your trip if you go into town or go hiking.

4. Leave towels at home

Another space guzzler: the (bath) towel. When you stay in a hotel, you usually don’t need to bring towels and you can use the space in your luggage for something else. If not, pack a hammam towel or microfibre travel towel. Lightweight, quick-drying, suitable for the shower and beach and small in size when rolled up.

5. Put on the heaviest and largest items of clothing

Phew, it’s fitting and measuring with that luggage. Then think in advance what you are doing. If you’re smart, you’ll wear the biggest and heaviest items of clothing. For example, it is better to pack slippers than to put on mountain hiking boots and a jacket and a sweater, these take up a lot of space. Worst case scenario, you’ll be wearing a few layers.

6. Roll up clothes and use vacuum bags or packing cubes

Rolling up your clothes saves space and prevents nasty creases. Even better is the use of vacuum bags that save up to 70 percent space. Or what about packing cubes? Super handy, they keep your belongings tidy and provide well-organized luggage so you can quickly grab something without having to mess up the entire bag.

7. Bring an e-reader

Wonderful, holiday or a weekend away. That includes being lazy and reading a book – if your child allows it. Maybe you are still into the paper book versions, take one good book with you. And put other books on an e-reader. This weighs little, has a small size and you can put thousands of books on it.

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