BootsnAll Travel Community

Quick question:
I'm going to Ireland, Scotland, England and Paris in Mid Jan. and I hope to be there for a few weeks if not a month. Up until now I had planned on getting a backpack that had hide-a-way wheels (more specifically the Switchback 22 from Eagle Creek) but a few of my friends (who haven't been to Europe) are suggesting that I save the money and use one of my smaller wheeled luggage. Its just a bit bigger then the switchback and they say that Rick Steves says most people don't end up using a backpack bigger then a daypack anyway.
So... What do you travel with and why? Plus it is going to be the middle of winter. Should I give up the versatility for the packing room (though I don't plan to bring much)?

If you go to Rick Steves' site, you'll see that he recommends a convertible backpack. It's one of those that can be carried as a suitcase, a shoulder bag or has hidden backstraps. Europe doesn't have as many elevators as America and a lot more stairs.If your room is on the 3rd. floor and no elevator, any rolling suitcase will be a big problem. If you go to "Rick on T.V." then "Clips" then"travel skills", you'll see what he uses and get some ideas. It's hard to beat the voice of experience.

I was very unaware of the whole elevator thing!! Thank
you for that info!! I'm pretty sure I want the versatility
of a backpack.
Thanks again for the info.

You're welcome! If you carry on (and you should) be sure to check the weight of your luggage. At Campmor, you can get a convertible backpack called "essential carryon" by Outdoor Products that only weighs 1.75 lbs. Have a great trip.