I’m off and around in the next few weeks on another grand adventure. And it’s a proper adventure too with some brand new cities, and places I haven’t visited for years.
However, it leads to an issue…. and it can be summed up in three words – Rucksack or Suitcase?
Suitcase or Rucksack? That’s the question. Not that if I’ve packed either of them correctly. That would be too easy. Images from my Trip Report archive. Baggage on the left: Tripp overhead bin ready suitcase, on the right – Regatta Survivor 65. In both: Etnies Transport 30ltr rucksack.
Regular readers will know that I’ve switched to a suitcase for my Chicago trips some time ago – mainly because carrying 23kg plus on your back isn’t good for you in the long-term (especially with another 20kg on a shoulder strap).
Ok. It was a bit more than Chicago. It was Chicago and Hamburg – from my Spring 2017 trip.
But readers will know one reason why I hate suitcases. Mainly because I find them unwieldy on the move. Also, suitcases have a natural enemy.
They’re called stairs.
Now the little Tripp suitcase (the purple thing) has served me very well – but in real terms – it’s a 30ltr case on a good day. On a bad day, it’s much less.
And I’ve had more than my fair share of suitcases popping on me on stairs.
But this is a holiday. So… there are decisions to be made. Do I stick with what I know and carry a good olde fashioned 65ltr rucksack on my back… or do I go for a suitcase?
The latest rucksack that joined the Economy Class and Beyond family in 2015 when I went to Hong Kong for a weekend to celebrate me growing old disgracefully… and didn’t bring a bag with me. And trust me… that isn’t a deuter rucksack. Well would one cost HK$150? Honestly? C’mon. We all know the answer to this when picking up a baggie at the Mong Kok Ladies Market in Hong Kong.
To be honest, unlike those who hike, I’m not carrying these bags all the time – rather it’s from the short points (for example – from a mass transit station to a hotel, from the airport zone to a train, etc, etc etc).
Besides, you don’t look as look like me when travelling.
Yours truely in Hiroshima. Note the classy 7/11 umbrella
So with a 6 day trip coming up (or there about), technically – I can do this with my normal 30ltr rucksack – The Etnies transport.
My faithful companion from many a trip.
Except this poor thing… how can I say this politely? It’s seen a lot better days. It’s got enough room for changes of clothes, etc.. and would be great except for one minor little use.
Correct – my camera gear that I insist taking with me… and a laptop… and the chargers. All adds up in double-quick time that means my nice one bag travel solution turns into a hot mess quickly.
Well, I’ve got a few days yet to start packing. So – help me decide.
RUCKSACK… OR…. SUITCASE?
Help me decide in the comments below!
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i have an osprey 2 wheeler roll aboard (21 inch tall) that has shoulder straps, chest strap, and proper backpack frame intergated into the collapsed handle housing
it also comes with a day pack that clips on to the main roll-aboard/backpack.
the daypack has built in laptop sleeve and an outside pocket that fits my 1 quart liquids plastic bag and a kindle, and small bag o’electronics
Unless I’m planning on walking a ton, like an urban hike, I’d go with the suitcase. It’s much easier to access all your stuff. With the rucksack you’ll end up with stuff in the bottom that is a hassle. Also since you’re taking addl baggage it will be physically easier. Just make sure your suitcase has the two wheel roller blades set up and not the 4 wheels that are too tiny to navigate cobblestones, curbs, etc.