According to the price comparison website Idealo, demand for travel backpacks has increased dramatically, skyrocketing by 222% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, as low-cost airlines increase carry-on luggage restrictions and charge extra.
Indeed, with the busy summer travel season in full swing, this shift reflects a general trend among travelers looking for affordable methods to work around stricter airline rules, an issue important enough to be debated in the Council of the European Union.
Travel Backpacks Lead the Charge
The considerable increase in backpack demand emphasizes their growing appeal as a practical means of avoiding check-in and excess baggage costs. Backpacks are usually small, versatile, and comply with the majority of carry-on size restrictions; they allow travelers to maximize space while avoiding extra expenses. In fact, this trend highlights a change in consumer behavior, with travelers prioritizing affordability and convenience in response to low-cost airlines’ increasingly restrictive policies.
Cabin Trolleys and Hard-Shell Suitcases Hold Strong
Cabin trolleys, valued for their space and robustness, continue to be a popular option, increasing by 52% over 2024, while backpacks dominate. Trolleys appeal to travelers looking for dependable carry-on alternatives who don’t want to check luggage. Hard-shell suitcases also saw a 55% increase in searches, proving that durability is still a major concern despite new limits. They are valued for their solid protection of contents.
The Ever-Changing EU Airline Baggage Landscape
The rising demand for backpacks, trolleys, and hard-shell suitcases represents a broad adaptation to the changing economics of air travel. As one expert notes, travelers need to understand which bag to select to avoid additional expenses; it’s no longer simply about getting a cheap flight. As airlines impose stricter baggage restrictions, travelers are increasingly forced to reconsider their purchasing patterns in order to cut trip costs. The Council of the European Union has addressed this issue, emphasizing the need for more equitable policies to alleviate the financial strain on passengers.
A Strategic Shift for Travelers
The dramatic 222% increase in demand for travel backpacks, along with the strong rise in cabin trolleys and hard-shell suitcases, suggests a watershed moment in how travelers view air travel in 2025. By choosing luggage that is carry-on friendly, customers are working around airline fees while retaining convenience and utility. As the summer season creates record travel volumes, choosing the appropriate luggage has evolved into an important element of cost-conscious trip planning, ensuring that travelers can enjoy their vacations without incurring unforeseen expenses.