If you fly with Ryanair and Wizz Air, the useful starting point is that both airlines publish the same dimensions for the free small bag: 40 × 30 × 20 cm, placed under the seat. The difference appears with the optional trolley for the overhead locker. Both publish a 10 kg limit, while Wizz Air allows 3 cm more depth.
Comparing the free bag
- : Name used in the rules · Ryanair: Small personal bag · Wizz Air: Free carry-on bag
- : Maximum size · Ryanair: 40 × 30 × 20 cm · Wizz Air: 40 × 30 × 20 cm
- : Weight · Ryanair: The policy page states size and placement but no separate maximum for this small bag · Wizz Air: Up to 10 kg
- : Where it goes · Ryanair: Under the seat in front of you · Wizz Air: Under the seat in front of you
Measure the bag according to the specific airline's rules. Wizz Air, for example, explains separately how handles and wheels are treated. Identical published outer dimensions do not mean that the airlines use identical measurement tolerances.
When you need an additional trolley
If you need a trolley in the overhead compartment, check whether your booking includes the relevant option:
- : Additional bag · Ryanair: Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: 10 kg · Wizz Air: WIZZ Priority: Up to 10 kg
- : Maximum dimensions · Ryanair: Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: 55 × 40 × 20 cm · Wizz Air: WIZZ Priority: 55 × 40 × 23 cm
- : Storage · Ryanair: Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: Overhead locker · Wizz Air: WIZZ Priority: Overhead compartment
By the published dimensions, Wizz Air's larger bag is 3 cm deeper. If you want one trolley that meets both published size limits, use the smaller shared dimensions of 55 × 40 × 20 cm and keep it to 10 kg, then check each airline's measurement rules. Dimensions alone do not replace the purchased option or guarantee overhead space in every situation.
Which size should you choose?
- Taking only the free bag? Both airlines publish 40 × 30 × 20 cm. Pack it so it can fit under the seat.
- Need a trolley for the overhead locker? Check that your ticket includes Priority & 2 Cabin Bags or WIZZ Priority, depending on the carrier. Both options state up to 10 kg; one size dimension differs by 3 cm.
- Flying both airlines on one trip? Follow the smallest applicable limit for each segment and check which airline operates the flight.
These figures come from the airlines' current pages, checked on 27 September 2026. Fees and available options depend on the individual booking, so do not rely on an old price comparison. Recheck the booking and the official policy before you fly.
- Ryanair bag policy (https://help.ryanair.com/hc/en-gb/articles/12888036565521-Ryanair-s-Bag-Policy)
- Wizz Air cabin baggage (https://www.wizzair.com/en-gb/help-centre/booking-information-and-services/baggage/baggage-allowance/cabin-baggage)
- Carry-on packing checklist (https://travel.10bg.com/articles/carry-on-packing-list.html)
- Liquids in hand luggage in the EU (https://travel.10bg.com/guide/cabin-baggage-liquids-100ml-2l-eu-2026)
This comparison covers dimensions and weight figures published by the airlines. Before departure, confirm the current terms, the service on your booking and the specific flight.
