What size backpack should I get?

[Debcsus]

I am going to be in Europe for about 2 months and I'm trying to decide what size backpack to get. I'm not a real heavy packer, but 2 months is a long time.

I've looked at some of the Eagle Creek backpacks and really like them. I have some of their duffle bags and they work really well so I am planning on buying Eagle Creek. I'm just not sure what size to get.

I also tend to pack until my bag is full (a bad habit for someone who also likes to collect things while traveling!) So I don't want something huge that will end up tipping me over backwards.

Thanks!

Debbie

[Eagle]

A few comments on your Post.....

First, I'm pleased to see that you've chosen Eagle Creek Backpacks. I use the EC Continental Journey, and really like their products. It's a bit of a challenge at times to fit everything in, but I'm gradually learning how to pack efficiently. Each trip seems to work out a bit better than the last. I also use a lot of "travel friendly" Tilley clothing, so that helps to reduce the amount of stuff I have to carry.

It's difficult to recommend a particular size of Backpack, as everyone's needs are different. I've found that the Pack Light principle is a good one to follow!!! As far as your trip duration of two months, I always follow the Rick Steves packing philosophy to "pack the same for three weeks as for three months" (or something like that). You might want to check www.ricksteves.com as I believe he has a "packing" section there. As I recall, there are some links to "packing light" websites there also.

Whichever Backpack you buy, make sure you are properly fitted for torso size! Any competent sales person should be able to measure your torso length and help you with this. Most of the weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. If possible, try this out fully loaded for a few hours to see if the fit works for you. As far as I know, most stores will accomodate this (they might want an imprint of your credit card though). Try on several different models to find the one that best fits, regardless of whether the harness system is designed for men or women.

I wasn't sure from your post whether you had thought about a detachable Day Pack. A lot of the people seem to prefer that (including me). It works well as a "carry on", and the model of Pack that I'm using has a front-carry option to allow for better load balancing and to better monitor the pack if there are valuables inside. The built-in rain hood is a nice touch also.

If you tend to collect a lot of things during travel, there's always the option of sending some of them home via mail (much less expensive than Couriers). That way you don't have to pack a lot of stuff around for two months that you're not using.

Hope these few comments will be of some help. Good luck with this, and have a great time on your trip!!!

[Marie]

I also have the continental journey and love it.

As for the collecting things I also suffer from that disease, but I always bring with me this little nylon bag that folds into itself and is about the size of 2 pairs of socks. Just wonderful when you start getting near the end of your trip and start over shopping! You can just carry it on the plane home!

Also I love buying jewelery as souvenirs. Nothing fancy but the take up no place and remind you if your trip when you get home! The best part being when someone asks where you go it!