The Great Debate – Backpack vs Suitcase…or a little of both
The great debate of luggage style, backpack vs suitcase has been around for some time. In my honest opinion, I believe it comes down to personal preference and to some point, travel style. We have got together with some travel writers that fit into both the backpack and suitcase preferences. We also have some that sit in the middle, for them it’s not a question of backpack or suitcase, they use a bit of both.
Whilst we use a suitcase for traveling, with small daypacks, which I will tell you all about below. As we travel more and more, with a focus on traveling more sustainably and backpack designs are becoming more user friendly. We are definitely looking into, the best backpack luggage that suits our style and can also act as a daypack, office, and more.
So, if your question is which suits me best? Backpack vs suitcase, luggage with backpack or possibly even a travel backpack suitcase? We and our regular travelers have done put together several different opinions. There are even sometimes we are all unanimous on certain features of each luggage style.
No matter your preference or style, suitcase vs backpack? If it’s packing that is your problem. Our article on how to conquer the art of packing can help.
*Disclosure: We may have affiliate links with one or more of these companies mentioned & may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosures for further information.
Preview – Backpack vs Suitcase…or a little of both – The Great Debate
Our preview will take you to the section you are most interested in, for the backpack vs suitcase great debate. Briefly highlighting each section, which includes one on a bit of both for those that like the best of both words and some pros and cons on each.
- Suitcase – for those that are not so minimalistic in packing, are on an extended trip, are unable to bear weight well or just the comfort a suitcase.
- A Bit of Both – this is the best of both worlds, where you don’t have to choose. Having a suitcase as checked luggage and a backpack for carry-on.
- Backpack – for true minimalistic travellers and packers, where everything you need fits in a backpack (or duffel bag), no matter how long your trip.
- Conclusion – A wrap up of all options available and some great tips on how to actually choose which is best for you.
Our pre-travel checklists, are the first step to start your independent travelling. With the great backpack vs suitcase debate, our packing lists in the fillable travel planner will help you keep to your limits.
Checklists for:
- Before you travel
- organising travel essentials
- when to start dreaming and booking
- right up to the day before and walking out the door
Suitcase
We are looking at suitcases first in the backpack vs suitcase great debate. Suitcases are one of the original and more traditional styles of luggage today. However, there have been some great improvements to the designs of years gone by. They have become lighter in weight, with rollers 2 or 4 for easy manoeuvrability (some would argue that it’s not always easy).
Many companies are providing suitcases with better locking systems, some styles expand to offer more space. Whilst other companies going the extra mile, producing a Sustainable Luggage Set that are using sustainable and recycled materials in manufacturing.
We believe if it’s extra space you are looking for then the suitcase is the way to go.
Hardshell Roller Suitcase
Recommended by Jeanine De Diana from Lets go a Wandering
When it comes to backpack vs suitcase debate, we choose suitcase. We use and recommend a hard-shell suitcase for the majority of our traveling. Whilst we can easily travel for 7 days with one carry-on only 40-43L each, for longer trips we also use a medium sized suitcase 82-88L. These have 4 roller wheels that make handling easy, which can also be expanded if needed. They also have a locking system to keep you property secure whilst in transit.
The main reasons for our choice in luggage is, for us, carrying backpacks for an extended period of time has caused some discomfort and back ache. So there really is no debate when it comes to backpack vs suitcase, to save our backs.
Additionally, most of our major trips are more than 4 weeks, where we utilise apartments and house stays. Our larger case offers us the flexibility to take those items we consider travel essentials, so we are traveling more sustainably.
That said, when looking at backpack vs suitcase, the downside is you require checked luggage. When we do require this as members of a frequent flyer program, it often comes at no additional cost, though if the ticket does cost more, in most cases it’s negligible. As we are traveling more sustainably, we also pay the offset to account for us and our luggage.
Other things to consider is if you are staying in accommodation with no lifts, you may have to carry your bag, though this has never been an issue for us, or rollers on cobblestones in Europe though others have had these issues.
As I said above, we are considering a back-pack as carry-on, for future travels. So I am as interested as you on what my fellow travel writers have to say.
Hard Shell Suitcase with Wheels
Recommended by Kate from Passports and Playgrounds
Traveling with a piece of hard case luggage with wheels is the easiest and most convenient way to travel in and around Japan. The luggage’s precise measurements give visitors a piece of mind to determine size regulations for the trains, shinkansen, and coin lockers. There are always overhead shelves for luggage to be placed on trains and shinkansen and coin lockers across Japan.
With the exact measurements of the suitcase, it is easy to plan ahead and budget to see which size coin locker is best.
When considering the backpack vs suitcase debate. Backpacks are not the ideal method for Japan. You will need to carry the backpack in front of you, especially when on a packed train. Having a backpack on your back will prevent people from coming in. Due to this unspoken rule in Japanese society, you would have to take off your backpack, put it on the floor between your legs, or carry it in front of you.
Train companies are working to improve people’s train manners, including initiatives like informational posters placed on trains and in stations asking passengers to hold backpacks in front.
Beyond the train etiquette, there is also escalator etiquette in Japan. If you are traveling with a suitcase, keep the suitcase on the step right above or below you. Train companies across Japan also have signs demonstrating escalator etiquette with luggage.
You don’t want your suitcase to fall down the stairs. If you have a backpack, you need to hold it in front of you as you move on the escalator.
So, whether it is due to convenience or Japanese etiquette. In the backpack vs suitcase debate, a hard case wheeled suitcase is the best way to travel across Japan.
Soft Shell Roller Suitcase
Recommended by Trisha Agrawal from Try wandering More
Over the years, I’ve experimented with all types of luggage in different sizes. When it comes to the backpack vs suitcase debate, I’ve finally found the ideal luggage for me – a cabin-size soft-sided roller suitcase.
When I started to travel, I took a 65-litre mid-size roller and realized that it is tough to carry a large and heavy suitcase up the stairs- not every hotel and Airbnb has an elevator.
So I turned to backpacks!
This didn’t work either – mainly because I’m short in height and also carry a daypack with camera gear and flight essentials. So when I’m carrying a 50-litre backpack on my back and a day bag on the front, I can’t see where I’m walking, unable to climb stairs comfortably because my thighs keep hitting the day bag, and both the bags start weighing me down.
Being well versed now in the backpack vs suitcase dilemma. I eventually, started to pack light and now carry a 48-litre soft-sided roller suitcase with 4 wheels.
The suitcase, with all my things, weighs only about 9-10 kg which is light enough to go in the flight cabin, be carried up the stairs with ease and also be rolled on the floor (with some bumps on cobbled streets).
Despite the size, I’m able to leave some space empty in case I need to shop on the trip.
Such suitcases usually have outer zips for keeping last-minute items or for easy access, a TSA-approved number lock and are made of high-density polyester for durability.
They fit well on luggage stands since they open with a top flap as opposed to hard-sided suitcases which unzip right in the centre and occupy a lot of space. Only when I’m travelling during the rains, do I switch to a hard-shell roller.
Under Seat Suitcase
Recommended by Melanie Newdick from The Professional Traveller
Looking to reduce stress and hassle when flying? Want to save money too?
Then let me recommend an under seat suitcase for the backpack vs suitcase debate.
Most airlines will allow a suitcase of 45cm x 25cm x 20cm on board, without paying any luggage fees. This size fits under the seat in front of you on most airlines. Fitting under the seat means you don’t have to book priority seats, which include luggage. These often cost more than standard seats.
It also means you don’t have to book priority boarding so you can get your luggage in the locker. Additionally, you don’t have to stand around in those queues to board first either. Instead you can relax and board whenever you like knowing there is space for your case!
Having your luggage at your feet also means you have everything nearby and can access it anytime.
With a bit of nifty packing, such as rolling clothes you can fit plenty into this sized case – enough for 5 days or so. By wearing your heaviest shoes and thickest clothes you can maximise space even more.
Aerolite do a fantastic suitcase with a long extension handle and wheels in this size. It also has lots of handy pockets including an outer one for travel documents or tech. Which is a great option in the backpack vs suitcase debate if you wish to travel with carry-on only.
It’s my go to favourite suitcase for stress free travelling for any trip under 7 days.
Hard Shell Roller Suitcase
Recommended by Ashley from Culture Snapshots
I use both suitcases and my 44-liter backpack when traveling, but I tend to use my suitcase more often than my backpack (which I have mainly used on weeks- or months-long trips).
This is partially because my backpack can push the limits of carry-on size, depending on the airline, but also for convenience.
Whatever mode of transport I’m taking, my day bag or personal item is a backpack, because I am always hauling my DSLR and sometimes my laptop. I also pack a small purse for when I don’t want to carry my backpack.
In the backpack vs suitcase dilemma I have found, it’s a bit of a pain to carry two backpacks at the same time.
Though, it’s no problem to get around with my backpack and my carry-on-sized suitcase. My suitcase has four wheels, and spins and turns pretty smoothly, making it easy to manoeuvre.
Of course, sometimes I have to carry it up and down stairs. But it’s not that strenuous to do so because my suitcase is small, even when it’s heavier.
This suitcase has a hard-shell case with a lock on the outside. These features are quite nice, because the hard case protects my stuff from the elements (like rain) and from getting banged around as much on planes. The built-in lock safeguards all my stuff from thieving hands.
Between my day pack and suitcase, I can really pack a lot. Because my suitcase is quite compact, it’s very easy to travel carry-on only. I can also comfortably store it wherever I need to in hostels and hotels.
Under Seat Soft Shell Suitcase
Recommended by Clotilde from A Princess Travelling with Twins
Whilst travelling is one the things I like the most in life, packing the luggage is what I hate the most!
Regardless of that, I will say I’m pretty good at it, but I still dread the days before a trip. First of all, I need to understand what form of luggage to use. My sweet spot is travelling with a hand luggage trolley. While it is now a necessity in order to save hundreds on low-cost airlines.
Currently I use cabin-size trolleys even on long-haul flights, yes even as a family of four! As my choice of luggage in the backpack vs suitcase debate.
If you organize well your content, it is absolutely possible to pack everything you need (I pack everything in cubes, and it is impressive the space you could save). When you have kids, it is so much easier if you have less stuff to move around, especially if you like road trips and trips where you change place every two or three days.
Of course, when my twins were babies, it was another story, it was much more difficult to travel light, but now it is super easy. There was definitely no debate there on backpack vs suitcase.
I have both soft and hard-shell cabin luggage. They both have pros and cons, but a soft cabin trolley with an expandable compartment and a couple of external pockets, gives you a little more flexibility especially to access some stuff on the go.
One thing I really appreciate is four 360 degree spinner wheels, while it’s true that you need to keep an eye on the luggage while on the bus or train (or it will spin away), they make pulling them around much easier.
Backpack
We have heard from the suitcase side of the backpack vs suitcase debate. Now for our travel writers that are team backback (duffel). These travellers have conquered the art of packing, keeping everything to a minimum. For them there is no debate they have their feet firmly in the backpack side of the backpack vs suitcase dilemma.
Our travel writers may even entice you to explore the freedom and versatility of backpacks. I am certainly entertaining the notion for our carry-on to be hands free at airports.
Soft Canvas Duffel
Recommended by Anna from Really Wildlife
When packing for an African safari, I firmly believe you cannot beat a soft duffel bag or hold-all. So in the (duffel) backpack vs suitcase debate I am definitely on team duffel. Not only will some airlines only accept luggage in soft-sided bags without wheels, but duffel bags and backpacks are also much lighter. Due to the limited space on bush planes, weight limits are notoriously strict. Most people are limited to 15kg of luggage, including hand luggage, so those weight savings make all the difference!
During my first safari, I made the mistake of travelling with a wheelie case and received a few dirty looks, as the pilot tried desperately to squeeze it into the tiny luggage hold of our 12-seater plane. As soon as I returned home, I researched safari luggage and purchased a large canvas duffel bag ready for my next trip. And I’m so glad I did! From then on the backpack vs suitcase debate, was no debate for me.
I love my duffel bag as it fits in with the safari aesthetic and makes it really easy to pack. I simply chuck everything in, and the wide opening means I can see everything clearly without having to unpack each time I need a clean shirt. The bag also has a large, comfortable strap with a cushion for carrying over your shoulder.
Granted, a bag without wheels can make navigating the airport trickier (and heavier!), but it’s easy enough to use a trolley to assist until you reach the bag drop. Another benefit I didn’t realise until after my safari, was that a duffel bag is so much easier to store when you’re not travelling. Simply roll it up and store it in a cupboard, or under the bed. I’m a duffel bag convert for life!
Backpack
Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveller
I am a diehard backpack lover for so many reasons, so there really is no debate on backpack vs suitcase.
First of all, the backpack is physically on your person, which has a bevy of benefits- you don’t have to worry about dragging it across the bumpy cobblestone streets of Krakow, it’s more challenging to snatch if you’re in a sketchy destination. Also, you’ll have your hands free to do things like pull out your passport or purchase food from a street vendor in Bangkok (which is VERY important, obviously).
If you’re in a crowded location, you’ll also have more flexibility as to where to keep your bag- for example, on a crowded bus, you can sit on the edge of the seat, with the backpack on your back or, alternatively, with it on your lap or between your feet. With a roller bag, you only really have the latter option.
Second of all, a backpack is so much more versatile than a roller bag- for example, you can empty it and use it as a hiking backpack if you’re visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, or use it as a daypack as you’re wandering around Tokyo.
Furthermore in the backpack vs suitcase debate, given a backpack’s physical construction, it’s more flexible than a roller bag. With most backpacks, you can pack lightly and easily shove it underneath your seat on an airplane or fill it to the brim and stow it away in the plane’s overhead compartment. A roller bag, on the other hand, is always going to be the same size, whether you literally only pick one bikini or multiple outfit changes per day of your trip.
Montbell Kitra Backpack
Recommended by Lisa from Lisa Eats the World
I love using a backpack when travelling, placing me on team backpack of the backpack vs suitcase debate. I’ve used my Montbell Kitra Pack 40 for a number of international trips, in addition to numerous domestic trips within Japan, and have always found it to be super convenient.
Using a backpack on my most recent trip to Tokyo made navigating busy train stations much quicker and easier. I loved not having to carry a heavy suitcase up the stairs using only a single hand strap or injuring myself by tripping over my suitcase when getting on or off escalators. It also gave me free use of both of my hands, so I was able to easily carry other items such as my train tickets, phone, and last minute train station purchases.
To make the most of your backpack it’s important to pack heavier items at the bottom, and try to keep the weight evenly distributed on both shoulders. The hip and chest straps should also be used, as they make carrying the backpack much easier. Which are very important in the backpack suitcase dilemma to ease back issues and aches.
The Montbell Kitra Pack 40 is super convenient because the sides and top can expand or contract in size easily and quickly by tightening or loosening the straps. This means if you’re travelling light you can secure items safely in your bag to prevent them from moving around. On the other hand, being able to expand the bag comes in super handy at the end of a trip when you’ve gone a little overboard with shopping! There’s also a compartment at the top of the bag that can be accessed with a single zipper, so storing items on the go is a breeze!
Montbell are known for their high quality items, and after using one of their backpacks for several years I’m happy to recommend this brand to others travellers.
Cabin Max Manhattan Backpack
Recommended by Lowri from Many Other Roads
If you use budget airlines to explore Europe, you need to be clever with what you bring. Which is one reason in the backpack vs suitcase debate, I choose backpack. Many airlines will charge more for extra or overweight luggage, so just taking cabin luggage on your trip is best. The last thing you want is to be fined for your luggage before your getaway.
Airline rules change all the time so the best luggage to take is always a backpack. Not only is it a really budget-friendly option but makes travelling with just a cabin bag so much easier. This bag can be stored anywhere without issues, from under your airline seat to a locker in the train station.
One of the biggest advantages is that it is hands-free. So, if you are travelling with children, pets or anything else, this makes travelling, in general, a lot safer.
Europe has a lot of cobbled streets and busy cities, so taking anything with wheels can be very hard work. However, with a backpack, your baggage is almost guaranteed to be less damaged. backpacks are also more practical because you can wear them on your back so it will be easier to climb upstairs or walk through narrow streets without bumping into people on the way.
If you are in search of the best backpack you can use as a free cabin allowance, the best one on the market without a doubt is ‘The Cabin Max Manhattan Backpack’. It fits under your seat perfectly, is lightweight and if you are a good packer, you can fit up to 7 days’ worth of clothes in it. A perfect choice when considering the backpack vs suitcase dilemma.
50L side opening Backpack
Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
I can’t believe I ever travelled with a suitcase, putting me decidedly in team backpack of the backpack vs suitcase debate. Also just one reason on how much I love my trusty 50-litre backpack that accompanies me on my travels around the world. It has enough space to hold anything I might need as a budget backpacker and is easy to manoeuvre without being too bulky.
Things happen unexpectedly when you travel and I can’t count the number of times I’ve had to walk to my bus, hotel or train, carrying all my belongings on roads that just weren’t made for suitcases. A big flight of stairs and no elevator? Not a problem with a backpack. Muddy path to the hostel? A suitcase wouldn’t be able to do it, but my backpack is dry and safe wherever I carry it.
If you are on the fence in the backpack vs suitcase debate. One big tip I have for anyone switching from a suitcase to a backpack is to choose one that opens on the side and not a top-loader. Top loaders require you to empty everything you have inside your bag to get to the bottom but if your backpack has a zip that goes all around you can conveniently open it like a suitcase and keep everything organised. Paired with high-quality packing cubes, you’ll be ready to go on your next trip without any issues.
North Face Duffel Bag
Recommended by Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel
When it comes to backpack vs suitcase I used to bring my suitcase everywhere when I was still an amateur traveller. But all changed after a few years, tired of lugging around a heavy suitcase everywhere I went, switched to carrying just a backpack. It’s much easier to explore the world this way!
My new travel buddy is the North Face duffel bag which has been designed for travellers like me to make moving from place to place easier and more convenient. This incredible bag is made from durable materials, meaning it can withstand all of my travels – no matter how rugged or challenging the journey may be.
The duffel bag is spacious enough to fit all of my belongings in one convenient space, without having to worry about running out of room! It has straps on the side and a handle on top for easy transport. It doesn’t really have plenty of compartments, therefore I use organizer cubes to keep my items organized.
The North Face duffel bag is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The bag’s contoured shape ensures a comfortable fit on my back, even when a full or empty load. It also has adjustable straps for a custom carry experience and it’s lightweight, so I don’t feel weighed down by the load. Plus, the reinforced bottom adds an extra layer of protection to keep my items safe and secure.
The bag is also water-resistant, meaning my belongings will stay dry no matter the weather or terrain. Another great feature of this bag is that it fits perfectly as a carry-on, so you don’t have to be at the airport just a few hours in advance for the check-in at the gate. I bet you can see why I am on team backpack in the backpack vs suitcase debate.
Traveling with a North Face duffel bag is the perfect way to explore the world and make sure I have everything I need in one place. It’s durable, comfortable, and has all of the features I need for an enjoyable and convenient journey.
Backpacks for the Family
Recommended by Jenny from Explore Essaouira
As I travel a lot with my husband and two boys, I very much prefer a backpack in the backpack vs suitcase debate. Why? Well, the main reason is that a backpack enables me to have two spare hands for the boys; to hold their hand crossing a road or along a busy street, or if it’s a bit of a walk to our accommodation and they need a helping hand with their own backpacks.
But also, we are adventure family travellers, so there really is no backpack vs suitcase debate, its backpacks all the way. We love hopping on public transport to get off the beaten track, whether it be a bus from Marrakech to Essaouira or an overnight train from Bangalore to Goa. Stairs and cobbled alleyways are a nightmare with a rolling suitcase; a backpack provides so much more freedom of movement. Admittedly a backpack feels heavier than a rolled suitcase as it is worn on your back, but we travel very light and us parents certainly don’t pack more than we can easily manage.
Other benefits are that the backpack can be made smaller to fit on flights where there is a luggage limit. Plus, there are also outside pockets to easily access a water bottle for instance, and straps to attach your coat.
If we were only visiting one place at a time and not hopping around, a rolling suitcase would be easier to transport through airports. But a backpack just fits our style of travel better and allows us to hop between places and transport with more ease.
Backpacks all the Way
Recommended by Diana from Travels in Poland
As far as the backpack vs suitcase debate, traveling with a backpack has an ease of use that is unparalleled while traveling. Backpacks are very versatile, flexible, and can adapt to different shapes, such as under the seat in front of you, or sometimes packed into a corner of the overhead bin when necessary. One of the best features of a backpack is the multiple zippered compartments.
There are numerous types of backpacks, however, Jansport has been a brand that has been reliable and has endured as a long-term brand that has a high-quality seam and multiple compartments that provide for a variety of uses.
Backpacks can easily be brought onto a plane and placed in the seat in front of you, thus reducing the risk of having it checked if placed in the overhead compartment. Accessing a bag at your feet is sometimes much needed, particularly if planes sit on the tarmac. Multiple compartments provide for ease of organization, smaller compartments for priority items with larger compartments holding snacks, water bottles, and other travel items such as extra socks or even neck pillows.
Backpacks are also easily transportable and don’t need to be held in one’s hands. Throwing a backpack onto your back and navigating through airports allows for hands-free movement which is a big plus if using transportation, having other items in hand or simply wanting to keep one’s hands-free. In the backpack vs suitcase dilemma, backpacks are a great way to go when traveling.
Backpacks can easily be brought onto a plane and placed in the seat in front of you, thus reducing the risk of having it checked if placed in the overhead compartment. Accessing a bag at your feet is sometimes much needed, particularly if planes sit on the tarmac. Multiple compartments provide for ease of organization, smaller compartments for priority items with larger compartments holding snacks, water bottles, and other travel items such as extra socks or even neck pillows.
Backpacks are also easily transportable and don’t need to be held in one’s hands. Throwing a backpack onto your back and navigating through airports allows for hands-free movement which is a big plus if using transportation, having other items in hand or simply wanting to keep one’s hands-free. In the backpack vs suitcase dilemma, backpacks are a great way to go when traveling.
A Bit of Both
As you have read, in the backpack vs suitcase debate. Some are firmly on the backpack side and others on the suitcase side. For me personally, I love our suitcases, though like our next travel writers and explorers there is no debate back vs suitcase. They travel with a bit of both.
If you are looking to have the best of both worlds, read on. For versatility these writers show that there doesn’t have to be a debate backpack vs suitcase. Each has it’s place in their travels and they are happy to share how they use them.
Soft-Shell Roller Bag & Backpack
Recommended by Rachel from Caribbean Uncovered
As a frequent flyer (without TSA precheck or Global Entry) I’ve got packing down to a science! It’s not a question of backpack vs suitcase, I take a bit of both. I love combining my soft-shell roller bag luggage with a backpack because together, they are so versatile. I can check bags if necessary or store them in the cabin. I prefer to use a soft shell since I don’t travel with delicate items. Plus, it’s less bulky and easier to carry.
My backpack and softshell roller bag combined are light and convenient no matter where I go. I frequent the beaches, so packing for the Caribbean usually involves a lot of bathing suits and light clothing. I can stuff a whole lot into that little roller bag, with the help of my packing cubes, of course!
My backpack includes three spacious compartments and one specifically for a laptop and electronics so I can work from anywhere. The compartments also make it easy to access all of my electronics and small liquids when going through security.
Additionally, when traveling to places like the Caribbean or Europe where I’m more likely to hop from place to place, I can leave my roller bag wherever my base is, and just travel around with my backpack! Overall, choosing to combine a soft-shell roller bag with a backpack has been super convenient over my years of travel. It really is the best of both worlds not having to debate backpack vs suitcase.
Mixed Luggage Options
Recommended by Cath from Travel around Ireland
As a family with a young child, we like to use a mixture of luggage options. So the backpack vs suitcase dilemma is not an issue for us. We don’t travel with hand luggage only, which is the main reason why we prefer a mixture of both. Typically, we use roller bags for the hold and backpacks for the cabin.
We find roller bags much easier to manoeuvre through airports, especially when trying to keep an eye on our son and make sure he doesn’t get lost. You can swivel them around people, and we tend to use ones with four swivel wheels which makes them even easier to handle. And once they have been checked in, we are hands-free to get through security.
We use backpacks for our cabin luggage as we only tend to travel with our electronics, drinks and snacks for short-haul flights, and a change of clothes in our bags for long-haul flights.
These are easy to fit underneath the seat in front of us or in the overhead compartments.
Normally, only our son and one of us keep our backpacks under the seat in front of us for easy access to things like Kindles, tablets and snacks. Our son now carries his own small backpack with his own personal belongings, while we usually carry one other backpack for the things we need during the flight.
The combination of luggage choice works for us as a family. We hate travelling through airports with cases and having to lug them on and off planes. We much prefer backpacks as you can keep your hands free which is always a plus when travelling with kids. This is how we have always travelled and will continue to do so until our son is older.
Mixture of Backpack and Roller Suitcase
Recommended by Erin From Pina Travels
Whenever I travel, my goal is to pack as lightly as possible. Traveling with as few things as possible makes it easier to get from place to place and flying with less weight can help you to be a more responsible tourist.
Given this, I don’t ever check a bag. Regardless of what type of luggage I use, I make sure it will fit in the overhead compartment on the plane. I’ve managed to travel as long as 9 months with only a carry-on bag.
Traveling lightly means you need to make do with less things. Mainly, you’ll need to pack less clothing. Some tips I find helpful for packing a capsule wardrobe for travel are to pack only what I love most, and pack clothing that is functional rather than for a photo opp.
I start by researching the weather and how locals dress. This way I can choose clothing items to bring that will work well in the climate and culture that I’m visiting.
From there, I plan outfits for half my trip, with the intention to repeat each outfit at least once. Finally, I make sure that everything fits into one carry-on bag.
When it comes to choosing backpack vs suitcase, it depends on what type of trip I’m going on. When I’m traveling far and spending a long time in that destination I’ll always opt for a backpack. This is because I’ll be spending time on public transport and traveling between places. In those scenarios, a backpack is easier to manage.
Though, if I’m going on a shorter trip that is closer to home, I’ll go with a rolling suitcase. When there’s less transit and public transport involved, I find it easier to pull my suitcase around.
Backpack vs Suitcase – No Preference
Recommended by Carly from Fearless Female Travels
Apparently, I’m a travel outlier, because after visiting 70 countries as a solo female traveller. I haven’t developed a preference for either a rolling suitcase or a backpack, in the backpack vs suitcase debate. In fact, I’m perfectly happy to switch between the two depending on the type of trip that I’m taking.
In 2019 I took an eight-month trip around the world, and for that trip I used my trusty 70-liter backpack. There were definitely times I was glad to have a bag I could throw on my back (especially when I was traveling in India – those streets are not wheeled-suitcase friendly!) but by Month 8 my legs and back were also ready for a break. My backpack comes with a detachable daypack; I used that smaller bag as a carry-on whenever I took a flight.
More recently, I’ve been focused on city breaks around Europe and in my home country of Canada, and for these slower trips with fewer stops I’ve been using a medium-sized wheeled suitcase. I definitely feel more refreshed when I arrive at a nice hotel with my bag in tow (rather than on my back) and the fact that I don’t have to physically lift and carry all of my possessions allows me to do more shopping while I’m abroad!
Backpack vs Suitcase isn’t a debate really. I recommend that everybody invest in a great backpack and a great suitcase so that you’ve got the right kind of luggage for every type of trip you might take.
Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible International Carry-On
Recommended by Sam from My Flying Leap
If you’re looking to pack light for a trip, it all starts with the right bag. Enter, the backpack vs suitcase dilemma. I have been on a mission to up my minimalist packing game, so I decided to challenge myself on my trip to Colombia and pack a small carry-on bag for over two weeks.
I found the Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible International Carry-On bag and decided to give it a try. It’s a really small soft-sided bag that will fit in the overhead bin in most airplanes, even some of the most restrictive.
It is quite small, though, so it takes some practice to pack it. Compression packing bags came in really handy to help me pack everything I needed for the trip. The weather ranged from 100°F and humid to 40°F, so I needed a wide range of clothes. I was able to get all I needed into it, and it was a huge success!
This bag does have straps inside to keep items secure and from shifting. There are also compression straps on the outside of the bag and a handy outside zipper for easy access to smaller items.
Perhaps the best feature and secret weapon of this bag is that it has sturdy wheels along with backpack straps. The best of both worlds in the backpack vs suitcase debate. You can easily zip them away when you don’t need them and use the wheels or pull them out and wear the bag as a backpack. Brilliant!
This came in really handy when I was in Bogota and Medellin walking on cobblestone sidewalks. It’s easy to convert the bag to a backpack and then tuck away the straps when you don’t need them. If you’re looking for a tiny powerhouse, this may be your next favorite bag.
Our sustainable travel cheat sheets, will start you in the road to traveling more sustainably. With the great backpack vs suitcase debate, our cheat sheets will assist and guide you to take actions for that end.
Checklists for:
- top tips to travel more sustanably
- hidden benefits to small group travel
- create you own itinerary in only six steps
Closing Thoughts
As you can see, we have a fine collection of writers that have given a fantastic account on what and why they use a particular style of luggage.
Many of our travel writers prefer backpacks or a bit of both in the backpack vs suitcase, great debate. Though there are some fine arguments for suitcases also. So, as always there are a few things to consider when starting to plan your next adventure.
With the backpack vs suitcase question, in your mind how you pack is just one of them. However, as seen above answering this question alone can save money and time at the airport. Another option is to move slower, stay longer and use carriers that contribute to the carbon offset program.
These are just three ways when considering transport to travel more sustainably. Whilst can increase your baggage, though in my opinion, it can save in other ways. Using storage can also reduce the backpack vs suitcase dilemma from a transporting issue, when staying only a few nights in one place.
We would love to hear your thoughts on the great backpack vs suitcase debate.
Other articles that may help you.
Plan your next adventure – Don’t give up your Daydream
24 Last Minute Gifts for Travellers
9 Creative Ways to Gift Fun Travel Experiences
Our Favourite Travel Planning Resources
From Bucket List to Destination DO List
11 Best benefits of small group tours – and why we love them
11 Easy Ways for Traveling more Sustainably
23 Great Sustainable Travel Essentials – it’s the little things
Travel insurance – Do YOU really need it?
The Points or Pay system when travelling??
6 steps to Create YOUR Perfect itinerary
9 Tips for YOUR Perfect Travel Plan and Budget
7 Essentials to Pack for Cold Climate Destinations
6 Luxury Accommodation Styles Pros and Cons
10 Essential International Travel Checklist Points – All you need to know
I am always happy to reply to any comments, suggestions for next articles or a hello. You can contact me through our Social Media or at jeanine@letsgoawandering.com with any questions or comments.
Great post! I love the comparison you listed here and think a little of both is up my alley for travel. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you..I am becoming team both, though it’s taken a long time…
Both for us. If only I could pack light and do just carry on. Maybe one day…or maybe not ha
Ha Ha I so get this…I am not a carry-on only person, though I also have reduced our packing to one suitcase between us
Really insightful post. I’m definitely team suitcase!
Thanks…I am also, though backpacks have a place I am finding….
Suitcases have always been my go-to. Literally from day one. Great read.
Thank you and yes I am a suitcase person but may switch to a bit of both as I do find backpacks handy for many reasons mentioned
This is a great read! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you I am glad you liked it
Great post! I agree that it ultimately comes down to personal preference and travel style when deciding between a backpack or a suitcase. It’s also great to see that the focus on sustainability is being considered in backpack designs, making them more versatile as a multi-purpose luggage option. The idea of using both a suitcase and a daypack is also a smart approach. Thanks for sharing your insights and tips on this topic.
The way forward in both backpack and suitcase manufacturing and design is really exciting for the responsible traveller and sustainable travel
Backpack hands down!
Minimalist traveling, on my person, hands free, no problems with wheels on cobblestones/dirt roads — and SO many other reasons! Over 30 years traveling, and always with a rücksack!
Also, more adaptable depending on one’s travel circumstances. It’s MUCH easier for taking advantage of camping opportunities (and strapping your tent to it!)
These are great reasons especially the minimalistic travel…I am working on that…We are trying backpacks as carry-on throughout this year so I may be converted but I am not sure I do love my roller bag
It’s quite interesting to hear many people’s opinions on this debate. I’m definitely team backpack as it gives me a true challenge in packing and traveling like a minimalist 🙂
I agree, the reasons and opinions are varied… though we are all different…ahhh I wish sometimes I can be a minimalist packer and I am better but I still like suitcases for long trips
Team (small) suitcase all the way!
Ha ha… minimalistic packing is something that is huge at the moment but pleased another is on the suitcase team ha ha
Team Backpack here 🙂 I have a 60L (Lowe Alpine) one and a 45L (Fjällräven Abisko) one for shorter trips. It really helps me pack only the essentials. One downside is probably finding beautiful, locally produced crafts which are too bulky to put into a backpack. But postal services are a great solution.
Yes Team Backpack is a growing movement for minimalistic packing, and agree with the downside. Living in Australia Postage home is staggering and requires a flight…so sometimes makes more sense to me to take the suitcase…when travelling locally we post home