Backpacking without the backpack

The Lonely Planet blog has an interesting post musing on whether or not the backpack is the best luggage for, well, backpacking.

Anyone who’s done an extended trip with a backpack has undoubtedly gazed with envy at those rolling their luggage along without a care in the world and probably wondered — why do I have all this weight on my back again?

It’s a valid question and there is no one right answer. The fact is it depends on what where you’re traveling and what sort of activities you’re planning.

Obviously if you’re planning any sort of trekking — mountain climbing, treehouse adventures or other outdoor stuff — the backpack is indispensable. But if you’re going around Europe for a few months, or visiting only major cities, the question of luggage choice gets more complicated.

A good rule of thumb is to consider your destination — if you’re headed somewhere with paved streets and plentiful sidewalks, opt for more traditional luggage, preferably with wheels. If you’re headed to Asia, where pavement is less common and sidewalks are a minefield of cracks and potholes, the backpack is the better option.

For destinations somewhere in between those extremes it’s your call. But one tip that’s served me well is to buy something small. Not only is more manageable and easier to carry, it forces you to pack light. And no matter what type of luggage you end up choosing the lighter it is the happier you’ll be.

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