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IF I want to be strict about 40x30x15 cm backpack rule

Posted by (Seattle-ish) on

We have backpacks that might work for a personal bag IF we don't pack them full, but IF we wanted to abide by the strict 40x30x15 cm (16x12x6"), do you have a backpack you would recommend? We may need a few for our family of 4 so budget friendly is good. Prefer backpack style. I have researched and have a few options, but would like to know what you have found. (Does not need to fit a laptop.)

*Sounds like Air France is our most strict airline during our travels. This is on the way home should we need to check instead of carry on.

Posted by
26404 posts

I have 2 of what Laura describes. The oldest is 12 years old. One or the other used every trip. No defects at all. 1" too big for so fights, 1" too small for others. All about how you pack it.

Posted by
2191 posts

The Patagonia terravia tote pack is very close and will work.
With bag dimensions like these, about 23 - 24 liters, a tote pack may be a good choice. Stay with a large main compartment and only a couple of external pockets. Use packing cubes. Avoid multiple compartments and pockets.

Posted by
396 posts

I have an Osprey daylite 26 that is a tiny bit bigger than your desired dimensions (17 x 13 x 6 inches) when not expanded.
Are those dimensions from Air France? I must say, it is hard to find a bag that small.
I did fly on Air France twice within the last year and did not have any problem with my backpack. But I understand you are looking for something even smaller, and probably cheaper.

I'm actually interested in responses here since I need to purchase a new personal item backpack for my teen, and the Osprey is a bit big for her size.

Posted by
6643 posts

I also have the Osprey Daylite 26; I didn’t suggest it because it is bigger than 16 x 12 x 6.

Pros: Opens like a suitcase so easy to pack. Expandable. Has a water bottle pocket.

Cons: Too big to be used as a personal item on many European airlines. The laptop compartment is within the main compartment (although accessed via a separate zipper) and I find it difficult to get my Ipad in and out of that pocket when the suitcase is fully packed. I find the straps a bit stiff.

Posted by
18971 posts

If you go to Amazon, and put 'backpack 40 x 30 x 15 cm" in the search bag, a few different ones will appear. You don't need to use the quotation marks.

These bags are commonly found in Europe but not popular in the US due to their smaller size. You have to search in centimeters rather than inches.

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