Finding the right 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag is essential for travelers who want to avoid the high costs of checked luggage on Easyjet. These specific dimensions represent the maximum size allowed for a free personal item that must fit beneath the seat in front of you. Selecting a bag that maximizes this volume ensures you can pack everything you need for a weekend getaway without paying extra at the gate.
What size cabin bag is 45x36x20 and why it matters
The dimensions 45x36x20 cm refer to the length, width, and depth of a piece of luggage. In imperial measurements, this is approximately 17.7 x 14.2 x 7.9 inches. This size is significant because it is the strict limit for the free cabin bag policy on Easyjet. If your bag exceeds any of these measurements, even by a few centimeters, you may be required to pay a hefty fee to place the bag in the hold.
Choosing a dedicated 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag allows you to use every available square inch of the airline sizer. Many standard backpacks are either too long or too narrow, which wastes valuable packing space. Specialized bags are designed with a boxy shape to mimic the dimensions of the underseat storage area, giving you up to 30 liters of capacity for your clothes, electronics, and toiletries. Using these bags correctly means you can travel for three to four days with just one piece of luggage.
How big can an underseat cabin bag be for Easyjet
For Easyjet passengers, the underseat cabin bag can be up to 45x36x20 cm including any handles or wheels. This is a generous allowance compared to other low cost carriers like Ryanair, which limits free bags to 40x20x25 cm. However, the catch is that the bag must genuinely fit under the seat. If you are seated in the front row or an emergency exit row, you will be required to place your 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag in the overhead locker for takeoff and landing.
It is important to remember that this bag must be your only piece of luggage unless you have paid for a large cabin bag or are a Flexi fare holder. The airline staff often use metal sizers at the boarding gate to check compliance. A soft sided 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag is often better than a hard shell case because it can be compressed slightly if it is overstuffed. You can find more information on official requirements at the Easyjet baggage policy page.
Best 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag picks for 2026
When selecting a bag for your next flight, you should prioritize internal volume and the weight of the bag itself. A lighter bag allows you to pack more items without hitting total weight limits, though Easyjet currently does not have a strict weight limit for underseat bags as long as you can lift them yourself. Here are the top choices for this year.
1. Luhxe 3 in 1 Totebag
The Luhxe 3 in 1 Totebag is a versatile choice for travelers who need a bag that works as well on the plane as it does at their destination. Priced at $69, it offers a functional design that fits within the required dimensions while providing multiple carrying options. The material is designed to be flexible, which is helpful when trying to fit it into a crowded underseat space. It is an excellent choice for those who want a weekend getaway bag that looks stylish.
This bag is particularly popular with students and young professionals who need a single bag for travel and daily errands. The internal compartments help keep smaller items organized, which is a common complaint with larger duffel bags. It fits easily into the sizer and provides enough room for a laptop and several changes of clothes.
2. Luhxe Leather Duffel Bag
For those seeking a more premium feel, the Luhxe Leather Duffel Bag is a top tier option. At $130, this bag is designed for the modern professional who wants a 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag that transitions perfectly into a business meeting or an upscale hotel. The leather construction provides a structured look that holds its shape even when it is not fully packed.
This duffel bag is an ideal personal item for those who appreciate quality materials. It offers a sophisticated aesthetic that stands out from the typical nylon backpacks found in airport terminals. You can view more high end options in the business professional bags collection.
3. CabinZero Classic Cabin Backpack 28L
The CabinZero Classic 28L is a well known competitor in the cabin bag market. Priced at $94.00, it is specifically built for minimalist travel. The square shape is designed to maximize the 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag allowance. It features a simple design with a large main compartment and a front pocket for quick access items like passports and boarding passes.
While it lacks some of the premium features of leather bags, its lightweight construction is a major benefit for those concerned about carrying heavy loads through large airports. It is a reliable choice for budget conscious travelers who want a bag that is guaranteed to fit.
4. Luhxe The Hoodie Backpack
The Hoodie Backpack by Luhxe is a unique entry in the travel market. Priced at $79, it combines a standard backpack design with an integrated hoodie feature for added comfort during transit. This is a great choice for travelers who find airplane cabins to be cold or who want to rest more comfortably during a flight. As a 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag, it fits easily into the required space while offering a conversation starting design.
It is perfect for solo travelers who want a functional and comfortable bag for their journeys. You can find this and other similar items in the bags for solo travelers collection.
Compliance check fitting the Easyjet sizer every time
To ensure your 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag is always compliant, you should perform a home check before you leave for the airport. Use a measuring tape to check the dimensions when the bag is fully packed. Often, a bag that is exactly 20cm deep when empty can bulge to 25cm or more when stuffed with clothes. If your bag has external compression straps, use them to pull the load tight and reduce the depth.
The metal sizer at the gate is the ultimate test. If your bag is a soft material, you can usually push it into the sizer with a bit of effort. Hard shell cases do not have this flexibility. Always place your heaviest and bulkiest items at the bottom of the bag to keep the shape as flat as possible. This strategy helps maintain the bag's profile so it slides easily into the sizer and under the seat.
Are underseat cabin bags worth it for frequent fliers
For most travelers, an underseat cabin bag is a worthwhile investment. The primary benefit is cost savings. By avoiding the large cabin bag or hold luggage fees, you can save significant amounts on every flight. These fees can sometimes be more expensive than the flight ticket itself. Over just two or three trips, a dedicated 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag effectively pays for itself.
Beyond the financial aspect, underseat bags offer convenience. You will never have to wait at the luggage carousel after your flight, and you don't have to worry about the airline losing your bags. Having your essentials under the seat means you have easy access to your headphones, snacks, and books throughout the entire flight without needing to stand up and reach for the overhead bin. For more tips on light packing, check the best bags for light packers collection.
What suitcase do flight attendants say not to use for cabin travel
Flight attendants often recommend avoiding hard shell suitcases for underseat storage. These cases cannot be compressed, making them difficult to fit if the space is slightly restricted by seat supports or electronics boxes. Additionally, suitcases with four spinner wheels are often criticized because the wheels take up several centimeters of the 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag allowance, reducing the actual packing space inside the bag.
Professionals also suggest avoiding bags with too many dangling straps or ornaments. These can get caught in the sizer or on the seat frame, causing delays during boarding. Instead, look for streamlined designs with hidden or tuck away straps. High quality zippers are also crucial, as a broken zipper in the middle of a trip can be a disaster. For more insights on aviation standards, you can visit the UK Civil Aviation Authority website.
Comparing top 45x36x20 cabin bags
The following table compares the capacity and price of popular bags that fit the Easyjet underseat requirements. When choosing, consider how the internal volume affects your packing strategy.
| Product Name | Capacity | Price | Material Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luhxe 3 in 1 Totebag | — | $69 | Flexible Fabric |
| Luhxe Leather Duffel Bag | — | $130 | Premium Leather |
| Cabin Max Metz 30L | 30L | — | Nylon |
| CabinZero Classic 28L | 28L | $94.00 | Polyester |
| Vela 30L Holdall | 30L | $40.24 | Polyester |
| CabinZero Military 28L | 28L | $127.00 | Nylon |
How to maximize space in a 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag
To get the most out of your 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag, use packing cubes to organize your clothes. Rolling your clothes rather than folding them can also save space and reduce wrinkles. Wear your heaviest items, such as jackets and boots, on the plane to free up more room inside the bag for smaller essentials. This technique is especially useful during winter trips when clothing tends to be bulkier.
Always utilize the small pockets for tech accessories and cables. Keeping these items separate prevents them from getting tangled in your clothes and makes it easier to pass through airport security. If you are traveling with a laptop, ensure the bag has a dedicated sleeve that doesn't eat into the main compartment's capacity. You can find more tech friendly options in the bags for tech enthusiasts collection.
Investing in a high quality 45x36x20 underseat cabin bag is one of the smartest moves a frequent flier can make. Whether you choose the premium feel of the Luhxe Leather Duffel or the versatile design of the 3 in 1 Totebag, having a bag that is built for these dimensions will make your travels smoother and more affordable. By following the guidelines for compliance and packing efficiency, you can master the art of traveling light on every Easyjet flight.