This backpack ok for a 2 months trip?

[allsf]

yet another backpack crisis.. I've NEVER done a backpack trip.. I am leaving on a trip to Europe for two and a half months starting early August..

I got this backpack for a really good price - U$70!!.. it's a wheeled backpack and I love its interior compartments.. however it weights 8.5 pounds.. it doesn't have a hip/waist belt.. and it doesn't come with an attached daypack.. should I be too concerned about all those things? is that bag big enough for such a trip? too big?

please comment.. I can always take the bag back.. :-)


www.luggage.com/High-Sierra-AT456-210-UV1355.html

thanks!

[WillTravel]

Personally I would find a wheeled backpack the worst of two worlds: not as good as a wheeled suitcase, and with fewer of the features I'd like in a good backpack.

I'm not sure if a man would want to use this, but here's what I use instead of a daypack:
www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396039197&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441773379

It easily fits a bottle of water, a guidebook, another paperback, energy bars, and more.

[Eagle]

allsf,

It's difficult to provide recommendations for others, as everyone's travel styles and preferences are different. I'm not familiar with the Bag in your link, but I had a look at it and it appears to be good quality.

However, I have to agree with WT in that "wheelie Backpacks" are not generally an ideal solution. The wheel mechanism both adds weight as well as reducing the capacity slightly.

In my own case, I've chosen a "conventional" Backpack, with panel-load design, detachable Daypack (for carry on) and stowable harness (so the straps aren't ripped off by airport conveyor systems). That's the method I prefer, but it may not be suitable for everyone. You'll have to decide what method works best for you. Incidentally, you may want to have a look at the Eagle Creek line of products (I believe they're based in California). They have both conventional Backpacks in panel load and top load designs, as well as "wheelie Bags". A soft-sided Backpack is also a bit easier to stuff onto overhead train racks, etc.

Regarding the size of the luggage, just remember you're going to be carrying it! Keep in mind this will involve up & down stairs at train stations, across numerous cobblestone streets, on & off trains, etc.

Good luck with your decision!

[allsf]

yeah, I know this is more of a personal choice.. but since this is my first backpack trip ever I'd like your experienced travelers opinion..

I do like the above bag.. particularly for its inside.. it opens on the side, like a regular suitcase and it has compartments for making packing and accessing things easy.. my main concern is its weight though.. almost NINE pounds the bag alone..

I just found this other backpack that seems like a good option - though no wheels. it has great reviews from many sites.. it seems made of good material and stowable straps.. no detachable day pack though..

www.rei.com/product/748432


I also found this great bag (I am trying to stay within the U$100-120 range).. it looks like a good one.. and it has the daypack.. a bit on the heavy side too though.. about NINE pounds..

www.ebags.com/hurley/flight_plan_wheeled_travel_backpack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=108269

this one seems pretty nice too.. no wheels.. but with better carrying straps and a bit bigger (too big??)

www.ebags.com/caribee/zulu_75/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=119213

what do you guys think?
thanks!!!

[WillTravel]

Allsf, can you test out these bags? I think that the best way to know if you like a bag is to fill it up just as you would for a trip, add a couple bottles of water for good measure, and try stuff like running up and down stairs and up and down hills with it. You'll know pretty quickly whether it's comfortable for you.

[allsf]

humm.. that's a great advice.. but except for the one I've already bought, all the others I found on the net.. should I buy them all and just return the ones I don't want? heheh.. not a bad idea actually.. except for the hassle..

[Eagle]

allsf,

Osprey has an excellent reputation, so I'm sure the pack shown in your link would work well. If you think it will be big enough, try a "test pack". Also, be sure you make sure it fits your torso range.

You could always buy a separate Daypack, either from Osprey, Eagle Creek or others.

Good luck!

[johncarter]

I also get a reliable information from the posts because i also has been travel to Europe during month of July and August as a back packing trip for 45 days.This posts help me to come know about good advice,thanks for this post.
_____________________________
clubvillamar villas spain

[cliff2perry]

That's great. Thanks for the information.