Travel fans rave about ‘Mary Poppins’ cabin bag, perfect for Ryanair

With the summer holiday season fast approaching, thousands of Brits are preparing to jet off to sun-soaked destinations across Europe and beyond. But the excitement of a well-earned getaway can quickly fade when faced with increasingly strict airline baggage rules.

Hand luggage size limits can often cause a headache, while additional fees for checked bags continue to rise. As a result, many travel fans are being forced to choose between packing light and paying extra to bring everything they need.

However, Amazon shoppers believe they may have found a clever solution to the seasonal packing dilemma. The SZLX Vacuum Backpack has been generating buzz thanks to its ability to hold significantly more than a standard cabin bag, thanks to its innovative built-in compression system.

Priced at £45.99, the backpack features an integrated vacuum mechanism designed to compress clothing and maximise packing space. Using a portable pump (not included), travellers can remove excess air from the bag in seconds, creating extra room for holiday essentials without the need for additional luggage.

The vacuum-compression technology allows travellers to pack extra outfits, beach towels and other holiday essentials without struggling to close an overstuffed bag. According to Amazon, the backpack is designed to meet the cabin baggage requirements of major budget airlines, including Ryanair and easyJet.

Available in a range of colours, including black, olive and beige, the backpack combines practicality with a sleek, modern design that will appeal to frequent flyers and occasional holidaymakers alike.

With airlines continuing to tighten baggage restrictions, the SZLX Vacuum Backpack could prove a cost-effective way for travellers to maximise their packing space and avoid paying extra luggage fees this summer, reports Wales Online.

However, if it doesn’t quite fit the bill, the pricier Airback Vacuum Backpack (£174 on Amazon) offers an upscale way to carry more on the go. Also available in a range of 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. Intended to slot into a cabin bag or suitcase of choice, these practical bags also serve a purpose at home. Priced from £13 for a pack of nine bags, they’ve been described as ‘excellent for travel’. Elsewhere, Antler stocks an attractive cabin suitcase, though that’s a bit pricier at £136, down from £170.

M&S also has the Pisa 4 Wheel Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase, with the inclusion of wheels making it easy to move around. That costs £30.

Customers who’ve 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: “This is was my best purchase. I bought this bag for my week holiday to Antalya on a Jet2.com flight and it fit with absolutely no issues at all, despite the bag being packed to the absolute maximum it could possibly hold! This bag is perfect for your free hand luggage to bring with you onto the plane. Fits nice and snuggly under your seat! I didn’t have to pay for any extra luggage at all since I had my 10kg cabin luggage (suitcase) plus this bag.”

A third reviewer shared: “Used this bag for a five-day trip to Lisbon. Packed five 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 doesn’t 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.