Suitcases, laptop bags and school bags: how to choose (Portugal)

Suitcases, laptop bags and school bags: how to choose (Portugal)

People who search Google for "cabin travel bag," "55x40x20 trolley," "15.6-inch laptop backpack , " "computer bag," or "lightweight school backpack" usually have the same intention: to buy the right model the first time —one that lasts, is comfortable, and adapts to its use (airplane, work, school, university).

This article provides a practical, decision-oriented guide in Portuguese (Brazil), divided into 3 sections:

  1. travel bags (cabin and hold)

  2. Backpacks and laptop bags (commute, office, travel)

  3. Backpacks for students and children (comfort, safety and organization)

1) Luggage: start with the "type of trip" (and not the price)

Short trips (1–3 days): cabin + personal item

Here, you typically want:

  • Carry-on bag (trolley) + small backpack/bag for documents and electronics

  • Lightweight, quick access, and good organization.

DECO PROteste reminds consumers that carry-on baggage size restrictions vary by airline and ticket type.

Medium-length trips (4–7 days): medium-sized suitcase + functional backpack

A medium-sized bag gives you space without having to contend with zippers. If you carry a laptop, a backpack becomes more important (protection + organization).

Long trips (8+ days): large and durable suitcase

The focus then becomes:

  • resistance (wheels/structure)

  • closures and security

  • making the most of interior space

2) Cabin in Portugal: practical sizes (TAP, Ryanair, easyJet)

Rules can change, so always confirm before flying. But to buy "informed," these references can help:

TAP Air Portugal (cabin + personal item)

  • Hand luggage: up to 55 x 40 x 25 cm , 10 kg

  • Personal item: up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm , 2 kg , must fit under the seat.

Ryanair (personal + option of 10kg carry-on baggage)

  • Personal bag included: up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm (can be a laptop bag /backpack), fits under the seat.

  • With “Priority & 2 Cabin Bags”: + 10 kg suitcase (55 x 40 x 20 cm) in the overhead compartment.

easyJet (free small + large option)

  • Small (under the seat): up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm

  • Large (optional / certain rates): up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm

Shopping tip (to avoid returns):
If you want a versatile cabin bag, look for one with dimensions that fit the most common standard, such as 55 x 40 x 20/25 , and confirm whether your company requires 20 or 25 cm of depth (this is where many models fall short).

3) Rigid vs. semi-rigid suitcase: what's the real difference?

DECO PROteste points out an important practical difference: in rigid models, interior organization tends to be easier because they open "in the middle" in two parts; semi-rigid models usually have a large compartment with a "lid," and the handle structure can make it difficult to keep clothes stretched out.

Rigid choice if:

  • Do you want more protection against impacts?

  • you carry more fragile objects

  • Do you value organization by sides (like a "cabinet")?

You choose semi-rigid/fabric if:

  • You want flexibility (e.g., to fit in trunks).

  • You need external pockets (quick access)

  • You often travel by car/a combination of transport.

4) Wheels, handle and safety: where is the durability?

Wheels (2 vs 4)

  • 4 wheels (spinner): better for airports and smooth floors, less strain on the arm.

  • 2 wheels: can handle uneven surfaces better, but puts more strain on the wrist/shoulder.

Locks and padlocks

DECO recommends choosing suitcases with integrated locks , useful for preventing theft and protecting luggage, and says that zippers tend to be more resistant than latches; some models have an extra lock to increase capacity.

Smart purchase: an integrated lock + sturdy zippers are often more important than "another pocket".

5) Backpacks and laptop bags: how to choose for work and travel

Here, the most common searches are: “backpack for 15.6-inch notebook” , “waterproof laptop backpack” , “lightweight notebook bag” , “anti-theft backpack” .

5.1 It starts with the size of the notebook.

Always look for clear compatibility:

  • 13” / 14”

  • 15.6” (very common)

  • 16”

  • 17.3” (rarer, larger backpack)

Practical rule: don't buy "just enough". A 15.6" backpack is usually easier to use daily and can still easily fit a 14", plus a charger and accessories.

5.2 Real protection (what matters)

  • dedicated padded compartment

  • Reinforced base (for safe landing)

  • Splash-resistant fabric (useful in Portugal during winter and when traveling)

5.3 Organization (for those who travel / commute)

Search:

  • Quick pocket for documents/cell phone

  • Space for chargers, mouse, power bank.

  • Separate area for clothes (if you use them on short trips)

5.4 Cabin: the laptop backpack as a “personal item”

Many people also buy laptop bags because of flying: Ryanair explicitly states that the personal bag can be a "bag or laptop bag" (40 x 30 x 20) and must go under the seat. EasyJet also includes laptop bags/rucksacks in the small bag category (45 x 36 x 20).

6) Backpacks for students and schoolchildren: comfort, weight, and safety

The strongest keywords here are: "lightweight school backpack" , "backpack for university" , "backpack with ergonomic back" , "backpack for students with laptops" .

6.1 Recommended weight: the 10% rule

A document from the Directorate-General for Consumer Affairs (Portugal) recommends that the backpack and its contents should not exceed 10% of the child's body weight (e.g., 25 kg → backpack up to 2.5 kg).

6.2 How to choose a school backpack (points that really matter)

The same guide recommends:

  • A backpack that is the right size for your height and not too heavy when empty.

  • Anatomical models, with wide, padded straps.

  • Adjust the straps so that the backpack sits above your hips.

  • Always wear it on both shoulders (never just one).

For students (secondary/university):
If they carry a laptop daily, a "hybrid" backpack makes sense: school bag + laptop compartment + breathable back panel.

6.3 Organization that reduces weight (and pain)

  • Place the heaviest items closest to your back (center of gravity).

  • Take only what you need for the day (review the content regularly).

Quick checklists (to decide in 60 seconds)

Checklist — Travel bag

  • Will I travel more by plane (cabin/car hold) or more by car?

  • Do I need compatible flight numbers (TAP/Ryanair/easyJet)?

  • Do I prefer a rigid (protection) or semi-rigid (flexibility/pockets)?

  • Does it have a built-in padlock and sturdy latches?

Checklist — Backpack/laptop bag

  • Compatible notebook sizes (14/15.6/16/17.3)

  • Padded compartment + reinforced base

  • Organization for chargers/accessories

  • If traveling by plane: it fits as a personal item (see measurements).

Checklist — School/Student Backpack

  • Total weight ≤ 10% of body weight (children)

  • Wide, padded straps + proper fit

  • Comfortable/breathable back

  • Laptop compartment (if needed)

FAQ

What is the "safest" size for carry-on luggage in Portugal?
It depends on the airline: TAP allows 55 x 40 x 25 (10 kg) and Ryanair (in the 10 kg cabin option) uses 55 x 40 x 20; easyJet has 45 x 36 x 20 for small bags and 56 x 45 x 25 for large bags.

Is a hard-shell suitcase always better?
No. It's better for protection and organization in a "two-half" configuration; the semi-rigid one might be more practical if you need flexibility and external pockets.

Can a school backpack be worn on only one shoulder?
It is always recommended to wear it on both shoulders with the straps adjusted to protect your back.