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Looking for a lightweight convertible, rolling backpack to work with Europe’s budget airlines? Learn more about the Cabin Max Malmo!

Cabin Max: Malmo Review

Written by: Janet Han

I recently took a 10-day Central Europe trip to Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. I wanted a versatile, lightweight suitcase that would work with budget airlines like Easy Jet and Ryan Air. Here is my review of the convertible carry-on rolling backpack, the Cabin Max Malmo.

Read this Europe packing list for more tips!

Cabin Max Malmo Carry on Luggage

Specs:

Dimensions: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm (21.7″ x 15.7″ x 8″). It fit easily in all overhead bins.

Weight: 1.8 kg (3.97 lbs), and a little less after I cut out the laptop sleeve.

Pockets:

• 1 outer front zip pocket.
• 1 front panel compartment with locking zippers. Inside of this are several slit pockets, one small zip pocket, and the flap has a large, mesh, zippered pocket.
• 1 main compartment with a laptop sleeve. I actually cut out the laptop sleeve to gain space and weight.
• 1 zippered back panel pocket to stow away backpack straps when not in use.

Cabin Max Malmo Carry on Luggage

Pros:

I loved how lightweight it was! I fit 10 days worth of clothes and shoes and weighed in at 7.4 kg (16 lbs). The wheels rolled relatively smoothly and the price point was good; it retails for around $40 USD.

The hide-away backpack straps stowed in a zippered back panel, which was also lightly padded. This panel flips open and fastens to velcro on the bottom to keep the dirty wheels away from your back when you wear it as a backpack. I actually used this to store my iPad when I wasn’t using the backpack straps!

It has a roomy main compartment. I was able to fit a large, medium, and slim packing cube, plus a packable insulated jacket and my cosmetics without a problem.

The zippers to the front panel and main compartment can be locked – YAY!

Learn more about the importance of having a suitcase with zippers that lock!

Cabin Max Malmo Carry on Luggage

Cons:

I am a pocket girl–I feel that it could use a large inner panel pocket in the main compartment to stow a jacket, and the front compartment could have used zippered instead of slash pockets for more security.

The outside bottom of the pack is ALL fabric. In other words, there is no plastic kick plate on the outside. Some online reviews showed the bottom corners fraying rapidly due to rubbing on the ground, curbs, etc. I reinforced it with black duct tape, but feel that they should at least put reinforcements on the corners.

Although there is some kind of hard plastic-y wall on the bottom, it is a bit thin and the bottom of the bag sags a bit when upright, which could increase the risk of rubbing on the ground and fraying when used as a rolling bag.

Lastly, I’d like more color choices and the bottom of pack is a bit on flimsy side and the backpack straps could be a little more sturdy. 

Learn more about how to choose the best suitcase!

Cabin Max Malmo Carry on Luggage

Overall

I had never heard of the company Cabin Max, but stumbled upon it in my quest for a lightweight, convertible, rolling backpack.

They apparently specialize in bags for budget European airlines (like Ryanair) that have strict weight and size restrictions. I was pleasantly surprised by how lightweight and roomy it was, especially after I cut out the laptop sleeve.

For the price point, I was super surprised by how well it held up against all of the cobblestoned streets, train rides, and flights, despite my concerns listed above.

Overall, I’m pretty happy. If the company made some minor modifications, the Cabin Max Malmo could easily become the best carry-on bag!

What’s your favorite international size carryon? Please share in the comments below!

For more carry-on suitcase ideas, please read:

• 13 Non-Boring Carryon Suitcase Designs
• What Exactly is a Carry-on Personal Item?
• Looking for the Best Carry-on Suitcase? 12 Styles to Shop Now
• 7kg Baggage Allowance? How to Pack for the Carry-on Crackdown

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I hope you liked this review on the Cabin Max Malmo. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Janet is a heart doctor whose passions are travel and leading an active, heart-healthy lifestyle. She has traveled internationally since the age of 3 and has been to Asia, South America, and Europe. Traveling carry-on only, she’s always planning the next great adventure!