The current EasyJet rule
Each passenger can bring one small cabin bag measuring up to 45 × 36 × 20 cm for free, including handles and wheels. It must fit under the seat in front of you and can weigh up to 15 kg, provided you can lift and carry it yourself.
The large cabin bag is different
EasyJet also offers a large cabin bag up to 56 × 45 × 25 cm, also up to 15 kg, when included in your fare, membership or purchased option. This bag is for the overhead locker and should not be confused with the free small bag.
How many litres is 45 × 36 × 20?
The maximum geometric volume is roughly 32.4 litres, but a real bag will use less. Rounded corners, padding, compartments and zips reduce usable capacity. A bag advertised around 25 to 30 litres can therefore fit these dimensions depending on its shape.
Why handles and wheels matter
EasyJet explicitly states that handles and wheels count within the dimensions. That matters for small rolling cases: the body can look compliant while the wheels and fixed handle structure push the total height beyond the limit. Backpacks are less affected, but padded grab handles can also add bulk.
Should you use all 45 cm?
If you mainly fly EasyJet, using most of the allowance can make sense. If you also switch to Ryanair or Wizz Air, a 45 × 36 × 20 cm bag exceeds their free 40 × 30 × 20 cm personal-item limit. A smaller bag may therefore be more versatile.
Maximum weight is not a target
Fifteen kilograms in a small under-seat bag is a high ceiling. In practice, a bag loaded to that weight can be uncomfortable and awkward in public transport. For a weekend or short trip, we would prioritise compact, light packing rather than trying to use the full weight allowance.
Our practical rule
For EasyJet, we would look for a bag that genuinely remains below 45 × 36 × 20 cm once packed, with easy access, few bulging exterior pockets and a sensible empty weight. If you also want free-bag compatibility with Ryanair or Wizz Air, use the smaller 40 × 30 × 20 cm target instead.
Check before every trip
Rules can change and some options depend on fare or membership. Check EasyJet’s current cabin-bag policy and your booking before departure, especially if you rely on the larger cabin bag or your bag is close to the published limits.
How we work
We verify information, cite sources where relevant and date our updates. Prices, availability and rules that may change should always be checked again with the relevant source or service.
Read our full method →Worth reading or watching
An external resource we selected because it adds something concrete to the topic.
Official EasyJet video: cabin bags explained
This short video published by EasyJet directly shows the difference between the free small cabin bag and the larger cabin bag. It complements the written dimensions without replacing the official policy.