Backpack or duffel bag

[sarahg]

Im planing a four week trip through a bunch of places in europe. we will be traveling mainly by train and on the go a fair bit. I have a big L.L. bean duffel bag with wheels and i was wondering if i could use that or if im better off buying a decent backpack?

Any suggestions?

[pointofnoreturn]

I'm kind of between. I've always been an avid rolling suitcase person and I thought long and hard about purchasing a backpack for my 4-week trip this May as well.... but when I actually tried it on, it was just too painful for me - all that weight on my back (long story).

So at the moment, since I'm used to toting around a rolling suitcasse in Ottawa because I do many overnights there, I decided that I should invest in a 21-24 inch suitcase because at the moment, the smallest one I have is a 19 inch (from top of wheels).

Depends on the person I guess.

[Eagle]

IMHO a Backpack would be much more practical, as a rolling Duffel sounds a bit cumbersome and awkward (especially going up stairs or on cobblestones). When changing trains, it's often necessary to go down stairs, through a tunnel and then up stairs. I can see a wheeled Duffel becoming a real "pain" very quickly!!!

Of course if you have back problems or some reason you can't carry a Backpack, that will change the situation.

Cheers!!!

[rchua]

i agree with Eagle. a backpack is the best way to go traveling since it will be easier for you when you move from city to city. it's easier to get through crowded trains/streets with a backpack than a rolling duffel.

[makemagic]

I've carried both a rolling suitcase and a backpack but recently I've stuck with a small carry-on backpack. Wheels become very cumbersome when going through villages with cobblestone and dirt and also when lifting is required. A soft-shelled backpack is nice for train travel and especially when staying in hotels with steep stairs.

Like Eagle mentioned, if you don't have back problems, a backpack would be much more convenient.