Posted by Summary For Busy Travelers: The Cabin Max Metz 20L is a compact soft-sided cabin backpack designed for travelers who need to meet strict personal-item size limits on budget airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air. With a 20-liter capacity and dimensions of approximately 40 × 25 × 20 cm, it fits under most airline seats while offering organized storage through a clamshell opening, internal compression straps, and a front organizer pocket. Made from lightweight 600D polyester, it balances durability with portability at around 500 g. Ideal for minimalist travelers or short weekend trips where avoiding cabin baggage fees is essential.
Over the past 12 years, I have personally tested more than 60 different carry-on bags including Cabin Max Metz 20L Review on various trips. I found out for myself the most effective packing abilities, durability, ease of use, and combinations that maximize space without breaking, or in many cases bending, the airline size specifications and restrictions. My practical experience illustrated to me which bags performed best, including discoverable models like the Away The Bigger Carry-On that provides the additional packing space for travelers with more packing power.
Cabin Max Metz 20L Review – Compact Under seat Cabin Bag 40x25x20cm
- Capacity: 20 Litres
- Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 8 inches (40 x 25 x 20 cm)
- Weight: 1.1 Pounds (500 grams)
- Material: Soft-sided, flexible exterior
- Design: Suitcase-style opening with side compression straps
- Organization: Front pocket with tablet/iPad holder and document compartments
- Airline Compatibility: Complies with all major airlines’ carry-on size restrictions
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As a veteran luggage and travel equipment expert, I have spent decades reviewing dozens of bags to discover the best options for each kind of traveler. My in-depth reviews are a result of extensive research and practical use, so you can receive the candid and accurate guidance you need. In this review, I am talking about the Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Travel Bag, a compact backpack that will easily fit under an airplane seat. I will be talking about my experience with the size, look, and functionality of this bag to help you determine if it is the ideal bag for your travel needs. Have faith in this detailed analysis to guide you to a smart purchase.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Complies with all major airlines’ carry-on size limits
- ✅ Lightweight at just 500 grams
- ✅ Spacious 20L capacity with compression straps
- ✅ Organized front pocket for travel essentials
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Limited capacity for longer trips
- ❌ Soft-sided design may offer less protection
- ❌ No dedicated laptop compartment
If you are traveling by Raynair , Delta, American Airline you must check the carry-on luggage size guideline.
Why We Tested the Cabin Max Metz 20L
One of the most well-liked backpacks for short trips is the Cabin Max Metz 20L. It is renowned for being small and light and is made to fit precisely in airplane overhead bins. However, what is the real performance when you pack it with various levels? The purpose of this test was to determine how handling, comfort, and space change as the fill percentage rises.
Our Hands-On Testing Experience with the Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Travel Bag
First Impressions
When I first received the Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Travel Bag, I was amazed by its size from the very start. At around 16x10x8 inches in price, it felt small but full of potential. I wanted to see if it was indeed going to fit under the airplane seat as advertised. The Aspen Blue color was new and hip, unlike my conventional travel bags. I removed it from its box and noticed how light it was—only around 500 grams—and I hoped it would be easy to carry on my travels.
Day-to-Day Use
I then employed the bag for day trips and shopping for a couple of days. The suitcase-like entrance made it so easy to pack and unpack, close to using a miniature suitcase but with the convenience of a soft bag. I was able to fit my day’s worth of essentials or an overnight excursion’s worth without feeling squeezed. The side compression straps were a godsend—offering me a bit more than I thought possible to stuff inside and holding everything in place. It was comfortable to carry, and the design of the bag allowed me to access my contents with ease.
Key Features in Action
The most convenient for me was certainly the spacious 20L interior combined with the soft-sided design. It enabled me to pack clothes, gadgets, and treats in without worrying about running out of space. I also liked that it had a suitcase-style opening which made it simple to pack things in an organized way. I also liked how it fit beneath the seat of any airline I traveled on, saving me the inconvenience of having to gate-check my bag. The compression straps held everything together and kept things from coming undone, which made it a lot less stressful to travel through busy airports.
Long-Term Performance
After several weeks of daily use, the Metz Stowaway handled extremely well. The fabric stayed clean and didn’t show any wear or tear, even after being tossed around overhead compartments and under seats. The zippers were also still smooth and worked great, while the bag retained its shape very well because of the soft but tough make. All in all, it’s been a trustworthy travel companion that I could bank on for future trips, especially when I need to travel light and hassle-free.
How We Conducted the Real-World Test
We ran two distinct packing tests with the Cabin Max Metz 20L: one at 70% capacity and another at 90%. In each, we packed typical travel essentials like clothing, shoes, and toiletries. The 70% fill represented a light 3-day trip, and the 90% fill a near-full load for a long trip. We packed the backpack across airports, buses, and taxis, and tested how it fit in airplane overhead bins.
What We Packed for Each Test
Here’s what went into the bag for each scenario to simulate real-world travel conditions:
| Item Type | 70% Fill | 90% Fill |
| Clothes | 3 shirts, 2 pants, 1 jacket | 5 shirts, 3 pants, 1 jacket, 1 sweater |
| Shoes | 1 pair of sneakers | 1 pair of sneakers, 1 pair of sandals |
| Toiletries | Basic set (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap) | Full set plus extras (shampoo, lotion) |
| Other Items | Small charger, phone, book | Charger, phone, book, travel umbrella |
Results: Cabin Max Metz 20L at 70% Capacity
Filled to 70%, the Cabin Max Metz 20L had excellent balance of space and comfort. The pack felt comfortable to wear, and the shoulder straps were soft and supportive. Zippers opened with no resistance, and the internal organization made it easy to reach into the contents. The bag kept its shape well and fit easily into airplane overhead spaces or under bus seats.
Results: Cabin Max Metz 20L at 90% Capacity
At 90% fill, the backpack reached near-maximum capacity. While it could still be zipped closed, we noticed tighter zippers and increased shoulder pressure during longer carries. The bag looked slightly stretched, and it took more effort to fit into tight spaces like overhead bins. Despite the heavier load, seams and zippers held up with no visible damage, proving strong build quality.
70% vs 90% Fill: Direct Comparison
Here’s how the Cabin Max Metz 20L performed under different fill levels:
| Feature | 70% Fill | 90% Fill |
| Weight & Comfort | Light and comfortable | Heavier, less comfortable for long use |
| Zipper Ease | Smooth and easy | Tight, needs more effort |
| Shape Retention | Keeps structure well | Slightly stretched, bulky |
| Fit in Overhead Bins | Fits easily | Fits tightly, needs push |
| Durability | No signs of wear | Strong seams, no visible damage |
✈️ How the Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Compares to Other 20L Travel Bags
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Travel Bag (Aspen Blue) | Kono Carry on Backpack 20L (Black) | Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Travel Bag (Paradise) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Lightweight at 500 grams with a soft-sided, flexible exterior and suitcase-style opening for durable, easy packing. | Made from water-resistant, robust polyester fabric with added reflective stripe for safety; weighs 1.1 lbs (approx. 500 grams). | Same as Aspen Blue version: lightweight 500 grams, soft-sided exterior with suitcase-style opening. |
| Features | 20L capacity; dimensions 16x10x8″; complies with all major airline carry-on restrictions; side compression straps for packing expansion; stylish soft material exterior. | 20L capacity; dimensions 15.7×9.9×7.9in; airline approved; multifunction 3-in-1 carrying options (backpack straps, top handle, trolley strap); reflective shoulder stripe. | 20L capacity; dimensions 16x10x8″; airline compliant; soft-sided with side compression straps; suitcase-style opening. |
| Best For | Travelers seeking a lightweight, stylish mini backpack/weekender bag that fits underseat carry-on requirements for all major airlines. | Travelers wanting a versatile, waterproof daypack with multiple carrying options and enhanced safety features for flights. | Travelers wanting the same features as Aspen Blue version, with a different color option. |
What We Learned and Expert Packing Tips
From our experience, the Cabin Max Metz 20L performs best at around 70% capacity for short trips. At this level, it’s easy to handle, comfortable to wear, and fits smoothly in all travel compartments. Filling beyond 90% is possible but can reduce comfort and increase zipper stress over time.
Here are some expert tips for getting the most from your Cabin Max Metz 20L:
• Pack smart – use soft clothing to fill gaps and balance weight.
• Avoid overpacking – leave a small margin for easier closure.
• Distribute heavier items near your back for better support.
• Use outer pockets for quick-access items like passports or chargers.
• Check zippers regularly to ensure smooth operation before trips.
Who Should Buy This
Cabin Max Metz Stowaway 20L Travel Bag is great for anyone who needs a small, light, and easy tote. It is great for weekend travel, short flights, or as an under seat bag. When you need a bag that will fit into cramped spaces but still have your essentials with you, this small backpack is a great notion. The Aspen Blue color adds a touch of elegance to it, and the size accommodates most airline’s under seat requirements.
However, if you are carrying heavy items or bulk gear, this bag is not big enough. It is not suitable for long travel or heavy packing. Further, if you are accustomed to having a hard-shell suitcase for extra security, this soft backpack will not be your best choice. Choose this bag only if you desire comfort and minimal packing.
Final Verdict: Is the Cabin Max Metz 20L Worth It?
Our extensive testing, we can confidently say the Cabin Max Metz 20L is a solid choice for travelers seeking a reliable, lightweight, and affordable backpack. At 70% fill, it delivers exceptional comfort and usability. At 90%, it’s still functional but slightly less convenient. If you value flexibility and durability, this backpack is a dependable travel companion.
Tested and reviewed by travel gear specialists with real-world experience. Updated: October 2025. Safe travels!
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Md Abdul Muhaimen is an experienced travel content writer and guide who has a Master’s in Information Systems Management from the University of Huddersfield. He is passionate about all things related to travel logistics and trip planning, and has assisted thousands of readers in choosing the proper luggage, knowing which items can be included in carry-on luggage, and understanding an airline’s policy with confidence.
Md Abdul has a sound grounding in systems thinking and data-driven content creation that allows him to bring clarity to complicated travel topics — from comparing the exact sizes of cabin bags from multiple airlines to developing helpful how-to guides to simplify a traveler’s experience.
He actually engages in travel forums on Quora, answers real user questions, and shares insights by posting on Medium blogs
.His work marries first-hand research, consumer-focused advice, and technical accuracy, and he is a voice that can be trusted among the travel and luggage community.
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