With the summer holiday season fast approaching, thousands of Britons are preparing to escape to sun-drenched destinations throughout Europe and further afield. However, the thrill of a getaway can rapidly become a pain when navigating the stringent airline baggage restrictions, but we think we have found an elegant cabin-bag solution that Mary Poppins would be proud of.
Low-Cost Carriers Enforce Strict Rules
Low-cost carriers are enforcing bag dimensions and additional luggage charges more rigorously than ever before. This presents many holidaymakers with the choice of packing lighter or facing substantial fees for supplementary baggage.
Amazon customers believe they may have discovered the solution to summer packing challenges. The new SZLX Vacuum Backpack could prove to be the answer to travellers' luggage woes this summer because, although it would be a struggle to get a hatstand in like Mary Poppins, it does have a neat solution to squeeze in more clothes than the average bag.
Innovative Vacuum Mechanism
Priced at £42.49 on Amazon, this innovative bag features an integrated vacuum mechanism that compresses clothing to maximise space. Utilising a portable pump, travellers can extract the air from the bag within seconds, leaving more space for holiday necessities.
The vacuum-compression technology allows for additional outfits, beach towels and holiday necessities without battling to fasten the zip. According to Amazon, the backpack has been engineered to comply with airline cabin regulations for operators, including Ryanair and easyJet.
Bag Dimensions and Features
A cabin-size bag measuring 40cm x 30cm x 20cm and suitable for Ryanair, easyjet and other budget airlines. Despite its generous storage capacity, it still slots conveniently beneath seats and into overhead compartments. It also features useful additions, including a shoe section and a compartment to keep wet swimwear separate from dry garments.
There is even a USB charging socket to maintain phone battery levels while waiting at the airport. Despite being packed with numerous features, the bag remains comfortable to transport through bustling airports. Cushioned shoulder straps and plush back padding make it more manageable for passengers navigating terminals at speed.
Avoid Costly Luggage Fees
The SZLX Vacuum Backpack could assist UK travellers in sidestepping costly luggage fees this summer. However, if it does not quite fit the bill, the pricier Airback Vacuum Backpack (£174 on Amazon) represents the premium option for compressing belongings.
Offered in multiple colours and two size options, this premium carry-on includes a pump and storage case. For those watching their spending, these vacuum travel bags remain an affordable alternative.
Alternative Options
Intended to slot into a cabin bag or suitcase of your choice, these practical bags also serve a purpose at home. Priced from £16.99 for a pack of nine bags, they have been described as excellent for travel.
Those who would rather have a Ryanair-compliant bag without the vacuum feature can find the Cabin Max 20 Litre Metz Underseat Bag reduced to £30 at Next.
Customer Reviews
Customers who have already purchased the SZLX Vacuum Backpack have awarded it a 4.4 out of five-star rating. One buyer likened it to Mary Poppins' bag, saying: "I can fit two pairs of lightweight trousers, one pair of shorts, five tops, and toiletries, shoes and a separate pouch as well."
Another customer commented: "I could fit everything I needed for a 4-day long weekend into the backpack and could probably have squeezed in more. Like the fact that you have separate storage for a laptop, wet things and shoes. Really pleased with my purchase. Was glad to find it in a shade of pink too!"
A third reviewer shared: "Used this bag for a 5-day trip to Lisbon. Packed 5 pairs of trousers, about three dresses, and five tops rolled up in the main section, and loads of underwear - I fitted a toiletry bag, makeup bag, electric toothbrush in a case, curling iron, along with lots of other small things inside. I squeezed a second pair of shoes in the shoe compartment, and I got it all zipped up and closed. I flew with Ryanair and only paid for one small carry-on bag."
One purchaser expressed disappointment, stating: "Unfortunately, the layout of all these bags does not really work: if I put shoes in the shoe bag, I have significantly less space in the main pocket."
However, the majority of budget-conscious flyers appear to rate it as a practical choice for low-cost carriers. Another enthusiast remarked: "Lot sturdier than expected, great compartments, perfect for WizzAir/Ryanair/EasyJet etc as free carry on. Fits LOADS in, my boyfriend recently went on a 10-day trip (during autumn, so heavier clothes) with just this!"
Travellers are advised to verify dimensions against airline hand luggage requirements prior to departure. Prices are correct at the time of writing.
