Carry-on-only travel is the fastest-growing trend in European budget flying. Wizz Air and Ryanair charge 50-150 GEL for checked luggage, so even a 10-14 day trip is manageable with a 40-litre cabin bag. Here is the strategy, the airline rules and the golden principles that make it work. For full low-cost baggage details see our 'Cheap Flights Tips' article.
What each airline allows in 2026
- Wizz Air: small personal bag (40×30×20 cm) — free; overhead cabin bag (55×40×23 cm, 10 kg) — paid with Wizz Priority
- Ryanair: small personal bag (40×20×25 cm) — free; 10 kg overhead bag — paid
- Pegasus Airlines: checked bag often included in the base fare — always check the fare class
- FlyDubai, Georgian Airways: typically 20-23 kg checked bag included in the ticket price
10 days in a 40-litre bag: the packing list
- 3-4 lightweight quick-dry shirts; wear the heaviest one on flight day
- 2 pairs of trousers or jeans: one for walking, one for evenings
- 4-5 sets of underwear and socks, plus one sports set
- Shoes: wear the heaviest pair at the gate; pack one compact spare
- Compact toiletries kit — solid bars, travel towel, 100 ml containers
- Electronics (laptop or tablet, cables, power bank) — top pouch of the bag
Liquids and the 100 ml rule
Liquids in carry-on must be under 100 ml each, all placed in one transparent 1-litre bag. Switch to solid shampoo and conditioner bars — they are exempt from the liquid rule and last longer.
Buying toiletries at a local supermarket on arrival is often cheaper than buying travel-sized versions at home.
5 golden principles for carry-on-only travel
- Heaviest items go on your body: jacket, boots and heavy shoes worn at the boarding gate
- Roll clothes instead of folding — 30% more space in the same bag
- Limit your palette to 2-3 neutral colours so every piece pairs with any other
- Use an Airbnb or hotel washing machine for trips over 7 days
- A compact rain poncho weighs 150 g and is essential in any European city
Passengers without overhead bags can board any zone last, skip the scramble for locker space and walk off the plane straight to the exit — saving 40 minutes at the baggage carousel.
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