Questions You Should Know about Wheel Backpack

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In this modern world, a backpack is one of the common things that can be seen almost everywhere. Gone are the days when a backpack was only used for carrying school books or going on a hike.

Nowadays, people use backpacks for various purposes such as traveling, working, and even diaper bags. However, with so many different types of backpacks available in the market, it can be quite confusing to choose which is the right one for you.

In all of my years of full-time and long-term travel (since ), my backpack/suitcase/whatever has assumed the functionality of my 'house' (and then some) ' keeping all my possessions safe while enduring the hard knocks of travel.

I've lived out of a bag for about 18 years.

Or rather, a few bags.

And I've determined (and demonstrated by example) that wheeled backpacks are the best for travel.

It is essential to have a backpack that is both comfortable to carry and has enough space to store all your belongings while traveling. When you travel, it becomes your 'house' while on the road! This is all the more reason for travelers to invest in a good quality backpack. In this article I'll show you what to look for and how to find the perfect wheeled backpack for you.

While this post was originally published in , it is constantly updated with relevant information and links. It was overhauled in , and continues to be updated for accuracy of links etc.

What is a Wheeled Backpack?

It is a no-brainer that a wheeled backpack is a backpack with wheels! It has all the features of a regular backpack but with the added convenience of wheels and a handle.

There are two main types of wheeled backpacks: rolling backpacks and wheeled duffel bags.

Rolling backpacks are designed to be carried on your back like a regular backpack but with added wheels and a handle. They are great for those who want to travel light and do not want to carry their backpack on their back all the time.

Wheeled duffle bags, on the other hand, are designed to be pulled like a suitcase. They are perfect for those who are looking for more storage space as they usually have a larger capacity than rolling backpacks.

At A Glance: My Top 4 Picks for Wheeled Backpacks

Ready to meet the top 4 picks for the best-wheeled backpacks? Here they are!

1. Osprey Fairview Wheeled Travel Packs 

These wheeled backpacks are our top pick for the best-wheeled backpack. Osprey in general makes amazing gear from durable fabric with great travel-friendly features.

The Fairview line of packs is designed specifically for women so they're ergonomically easier to carry on your back. They both come in checked luggage size (65L), and carry-on size (36L) ' though I would argue that 36L may be a wee bit small if you're traveling long-term. Osprey has larger options.

The comfortable backpack harness and hip belt stow away when you want to use the wheels and retractable handle for easy maneuverability. And there are straps on the front of the pack to which you can attach the Osprey Daylite or Fairview/Farpoint daypacks so you can wheel or carry your whole travel entourage easily and keep your hands free.

Check out the Fairview 65L Wheeled Travel Pack
and the Fairview 36L Carry-On version.

2. The Osprey Farpoint Wheeled Travel Packs 

In truth this ties for the #1 spot because the Farpoint has exactly the same features as the Fairview ' except it's designed for men.

Check out the Farpoint 65L Wheeled Travel Pack
and the Farpoint 36L Carry-On version.

2. Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT 90L Wheeled Duffel With Backpack Straps 

This wheeled duffel bag from Eagle Creek is our top pick for the best rolling duffel bag. There are tons of rolling duffel bags, but very few also have backpack straps; this one does. It is made from durable fabric and features a large main compartment with internal compression straps to keep your belongings in place. It also has a handle and rolling wheels for easy maneuverability.

Now here's the thing. At 90L this thing is larger than I would normally recommend for long-term travel, because it will be heavy. But if you spend a lot of time in colder climates, or you have hobbies that require gear, this will be ideal for hauling everything around.

You won't want to carry it on your back for too long however, because there's no waist belt and anything this big is bound to be too heavy to carry comfortably with just the backpack straps. That said, when the terrain is just too inappropriate to wheel your luggage, you'll be thankful for the straps.

Luckily they are super sturdy oversized treaded wheels. I have some ancient Eagle Creek rolling luggage with similar wheels and I've rolled it countless miles on gravel, cobblestones, and other non-wheel-friendly terrain. They're still like new.

This wheeled bag has some great organizational features too, like mesh divers and easy-access zippered pockets. Overall, this is a great rolling duffel bag for those who need to carry a ton of stuff and are looking for durability, comfort, and versatility.

Get your Eagle Creek cargo hauler here.
For something a bit smaller, check out the Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack 80L.

4. Everki Atlas rolling laptop backpack 

This rolling laptop backpack from Everki is our top pick for the best rolling laptop backpack. It is made from durable fabric and features a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. It also has a front organizational pocket and a quick-access top zippered pocket.

At 30L, you could use this as your only luggage for shorter carry-on only trips if you are a super light packer. Or, you could use this as your carry-on/daypack on longer trips with checked luggage. It has a trolley strap so you can attach it to your larger rolling luggage, and after you've checked it, you can use the wheels to breeze around the airport in style. The rolling wheels and retractable handle also makes this a nice thing to have at your destination, for example if you're going to and from a coworking space.

Overall, this is a great rolling laptop backpack for those who are looking for durability, comfort, and convenience.

Check out Everki's rolling laptop backpack here.

Update: Do you like the idea of carry-on sized wheeled backpacks but the Everki is too small? I've used the Osprey Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel (40L) on trips as long as 3 months. The backpack straps aren't designed for heavy loads but can get you through the bits where you can't roll it. They also detach if you need more packing space.

My own journey to wheeled backpacks: I started with a backpack'

'as many budget travelers do. Something about the 'backpacker' moniker that means you have to travel with a backpack. (Spoiler alert: you don't). Actually, I started my full-time travels with my second backpack, thinking I was smart for ditching the first one. (This turned out to be a smart move, but sadly not smart enough).

My First Backpack ' Lowe Alpine

My first (pre-full-time traveling) backpack was a Lowe Alpine 60-80L trekking backpack.
It was a pretty simple, bare bones deal, that I took to South Africa for a month.

There, I realized three impracticalities of this bag:

• Walking into fancy hotels with a backpack is no fun (it was a pretty swish trip).
• Accessing the contents from only the top or bottom is painful. I usually couldn't see what I needed in the dark abyss of bag contents, and had to remove everything just to find it.
• The total lack of extra pockets or reasonable ways to segregate gear further exaggerated the above problem.
  

So I ditched the backpack'

'and bought another bag. (I still had a few lessons to learn why backpacks suck).

I applied the above lessons by getting a day pack that had a zipper for side-access (as well as top and bottom), some extra pockets, side pockets and a padded hip belt. As for traipsing into swishy hotels with a backpack, I didn't think my full-time travels would allow much luxury, so I conceded to the 'practicality' of a backpack.

My new pack of choice was the high quality Gregory Deva.

Although this backpack was great for proper mountaineering and trips into the wilderness, it sucked for short trip travel. Or rather, it sucked for me ' and I realized that I hate large backpacks in general. Here's why:

• They kill your back. Hoisting them on and off is awkward, not comfortable to wear, and rarely graceful.
• Two words: airport lineups. You either have to wear your pack the whole time you're in line (which can be hours), or you have to unceremoniously kick it along, two feet at a time.
• They're incompatible with daypacks. I need a daypack to house my laptop and other carry-on essentials. So it means I'm one of those dorks with a big backpack on my back and a daypack on my front. (Sorry if you're one of those 'dorks' ' but I think it looks ridiculous, and I know from experience that it's hot and uncomfortable, and it irrefutably labels ' and targets ' you as a tourist).
• No matter how many zippers they add, I still couldn't find what I needed, and regularly had to pour out all the contents to find it. (can you feel my aggravation building?)
• Rogue backpack straps and airport conveyor belts do not play well together. I was perpetually worried that my bag would be ripped to shreds (with all my precious contents) on every flight.
• Lastly, although I hadn't anticipated luxury in my full-time travels, it has happened from time to time. I've received sponsorships and travel opportunities through my freelance writing career, and I just don't like lugging a backpack. It's a stigma. And when first impressions count I like to look professional (as any Professional Hobo should!); doing it with a backpack is an uphill battle.
  
  

How I discovered wheeled backpacks

Living and volunteering in a hostel in Kona, Hawaii was a great way to suss out gear and destinations through recommendations from the steady stream of travelers. I saw so many bags come through that place, and then one day, accompanied by a beacon of light and angel-song, I saw this:

It was love at first sight.

The news got even better when I discovered it was very inexpensive at under $200, and solved so many of my problems!

The High Sierra Overpass (unfortunately, long ago discontinued)  rolling backpack with detachable daypack changed my life because:

• The main bag opens completely up clamshell style, allowing me to easily see and access the contents.
• There are a few mesh dividers and such to help keep stuff separate.
• The zip-away straps are available for use whenever wheels are inconvenient (for example on rough terrain or when navigating a lot of stairs).
• It has a matching daypack that zips onto the main bag meaning you only have one ultimate bag to cart around (though admittedly when rolling the case I usually preferred to wear my daypack since it had my laptop in it).
• Although I was doubtful as to how much I would use the wheels (somehow I felt they'd be impractical), I ended up using them all the time. In fact, in the three years that I lived out of this bag, I used the straps'.twice. Yup, twice. (Once in Spain when I had to walk for 45 minutes on a cobblestone street, and once in Malaysia when I had to walk on a non-existent road).

Given how rarely I used the backpack straps, you might wonder why I bothered getting another wheeled backpack when this one bit the dust after three years of abuse. But I have to admit, straps are still a practical feature to have in a bag, to help you get through whatever craziness your travels might throw at you.

Since these olden days of my initial discovery, wheeled backpacks have become increasingly popular among travelers. A wheeled backpack is a great option for those who want to travel light and do not want to carry their backpack on their back all the time. It also makes it easier to maneuver through crowded areas and narrow spaces.

Carry-on Travel ' Wheeled Backpacks vs Regular Backpacks: Which one is Best?

If I'm traveling with carry-on luggage ONLY, I prefer to maximize space and either use rolling luggage or a backpack, but not a wheeled backpack. If I have rolling carry-on luggage and need to carry it by hand (up some stairs for example), it's light enough that I don't need straps.

That said, I've been using the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Carryon 40L, which is excellent because the backpack straps don't take away from valuable packing space the way other wheeled carry-on backpacks do. They also detach entirely if you're going on a trip that requires more luggage space.

Check out this post to determine which type of luggage best suits your style of travel, and then this post to select the best carry-on or checked type of bag for you). 

My next wheeled backpack: Osprey Wheeled Travel Packs

When traveling, a warranty policy is only as good as the nearest dealer, which is rarely around the corner. So when the zipper irreparably broke on my High Sierra bag while in northern Sweden, I had a week to buy another bag before immediately putting it through its paces on the Ultimate Train Challenge.

I ended up getting the Osprey Sojourn 60L. Here's the scoop:

Pros and Cons of Wheeled Backpacks

Pros of Wheeled Backpacks:

Are Wheeled Backpacks good? Let's examine some advantages of wheeled backpacks

1. They are easier to carry

One of the main reasons why wheeled backpacks are becoming more popular is that they provide a much easier option to carry your backpacks. You no longer have to strain your back and shoulders all the time when carrying a wheeled backpack. All it is needed is to pull it along behind you. My compadres on the Ultimate Train Challenge were immediately enamoured with my wheeled backpack, whilst lugging their own backpacks around Europe and Asia. They both vowed to replace their packs with something similar to mine.

2. They are well organized

Wheeled backpacks are designed with compartments and pockets that allow you to organize your belongings in a better way than most regular backpacks.

3. They are more comfortable

Although a wheeled backpack is not usually as comfortable as a straight backpack without wheels, the comfort factor comes in when you can save your back and wheel it along. Look for wheeled backpacks with padded shoulder straps and backs and a hip belt to help distribute the weight.

4. They are great for traveling

Wheeled backpacks are perfect for travelers as they make it easier to move around with all your belongings. They are also great for those who are always on the go and do not have time to stop and rest. On top of that, they are easy to maneuver through crowds and narrow spaces. Also, with designs that give easy access to the contents, they're a dream to travel and live out of.

5. They are easy to store

Because of how wheeled backpacks are designed, they are usually easy to store when not in use. Most rolling backpacks can be stored in a closet or under a bed.

6. They are durable

Durability might be the middle name of wheeled backpacks. Most wheeled backpacks are made from high-quality material that makes them more durable than regular backpacks. This means that they will last longer and will not tear easily. There are also anti-theft features that are incorporated in some wheeled backpacks, making them even more durable.

7. They are stylish

Worried about how you will look rolling around with a backpack? Don't be! Wheeled backpacks come in different colors, designs, and styles. You can definitely find one that will suit your taste and personality.

8. They are perfect for all occasions

Whether you are going on a hike, a camping trip, or a vacation, wheeled backpacks are perfect for all occasions. Definitely the perfect companion for all your adventures.

But let us not only talk about the advantages of wheeled backpacks. Wheeled backpacks also have a few disadvantages that you should be aware of.

Cons of Wheeled Backpacks:

1. They are more expensive

The main disadvantage of wheeled backpacks is that they are usually more expensive than regular backpacks. The additional engineering that goes into a wheeled backpack will inherently make it more expensive.

2. They are heavier

Another disadvantage of wheeled backpacks is that they tend to be heavier than regular backpacks. This is because of the added features like the wheels and handle.

3. They are not good for hiking, climbing, or off-road adventures

If you are planning to go on a multi-day back-country hike, then a wheeled backpack is not the best option for you. But if you are just planning to use it for your daily commute or for travel, then a wheeled backpack would be a great option.

So if you're a traveler who enjoys trips to the wilderness, bring along a lightweight (ideally waterproof) summit pack. It is one of my favourite pieces of travel gear.

Check out this comparison of the Top Packable Daypacks for Travel so you can choose the best one for you.

4. They are not as spacious

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Wheel Backpack.

Some of the packing space is taken up by the wheels and the frame. This is why I don't recommend a carry-on sized wheeled backpack if you're going with carry-on luggage only; you'll lose too much valuable packing space to the straps.

Interested in buying one? Here are a few tips that you need to keep in mind when purchasing a wheeled backpack.

Tips for Finding The Best Travel Backpack With Wheels for International Travel

When buying a wheeled backpack, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration, such as the type of wheels, the size of the backpack, and the price. Let us take a look at each of these factors in detail.

1. Type of Wheels

The type of wheels on the backpack is one of the most important factors that you need to consider. There are two main types of wheels ' plastic and rubber. 

Plastic wheels are cheaper but are not as durable as rubber wheels. Rubber wheels, on the other hand, are more expensive but are definitely more durable and can handle different types of terrain. 

If you are planning to use your backpack for travel, it is best to go for rubber wheels. But if you are only going to use it for your daily commute, plastic wheels would suffice.

2. Size of the Backpack

The size of the backpack is another important factor that you need to take into consideration. Make sure to choose a backpack that is big enough to fit all your things but not too big that it becomes difficult to carry.

3. Price

The price of the backpack is also an important factor that you need to consider. There are a lot of different types of wheeled backpacks available in the market, so make sure to choose one that fits your budget.

4. Check for Straps

Carrying your backpack would be much easier with additional support such as padded shoulder straps, as well as proper waist belts and chest straps. These would help distribute the weight of your backpack evenly, making it more comfortable for you to carry.

5. Handles

Most wheeled backpacks come with handles on the top and sides. These are extremely helpful when it comes to lifting your backpack into overhead storage compartments on buses or trains. Look for really sturdy handles that can take the weight of your backpack without breaking, and you need both top and side handles.

6. Water Resistant

Choose a wheeled backpack that is made of water-resistant material. This will help keep your things dry and safe in case you get caught in the rain or someone spills their drink on your backpack.

7. Zippers

Zippers are one of the most important parts of a wheeled backpack. They need to be strong and durable enough to withstand a lot of wear and tear. If a zipper goes, your luggage is useless. Look for zippers that are made of metal or reinforced plastic, as they are the most durable.

That said, try to limit the number of zippers accessing the main contents. I use a TSA lock on my bag (for general security on the ground, as well as when flying). Too many zippers means either a ridiculous number of locks, or compromised security.

8. Pockets and Compartments

Just like regular backpacks, wheeled backpacks also come with different compartments and pockets. These are extremely helpful in organizing your things and keeping them easily accessible. 

Some wheeled backpacks even have a separate compartment for your laptop, which is great if you are a student or working professional.

9. Accessibility

Another aspect to consider when choosing a good rolling bag is its accessibility. Does it have an easy-to-reach front pocket? Is the main compartment easily accessible? You don't want to be fumbling around with a backpack that's difficult to open. Smart bag design means that you can quickly grab what you need without having to take the whole backpack off and can definitely go a long way.

UPDATE: Although I still stand by everything in this post, you may want to see how ' and why ' I'm now a roll-aboard girl only, and what criteria you need to decide what is the best wheeled backpack for adults.

The Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel: Backpacks vs Rolling Luggage

'and even more recently:

Checked vs. Carry-On Luggage (and Why Checked is Best) ' with a comprehensive overview of and recommendations for different types of checked and carry-on luggage. 

And if you'd prefer to do the carry on backpack thing, here are the Best Carry On Backpacks for One Bag Travel.

Want more Travel Gear Ideas? Check out'

The Ultimate Packing List for Full-Time Travel

Pro Packing Hacks ' Best Travel Accessories for Maximizing Space and Organizing Your Stuff

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Clothes for Women

My Search for the Perfect Travel Sandal

All of my annual Travel Gear Review Posts

Anatomie Travel Clothing Made me Throw Out My Jeans

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I have a roller (2 wheel only) and a good backpack. I haven't decided which to use on my next trip. Last trip was the backpack, but I'm considering switching over to the roller.

I often check my bag back home, full of dirty clothes (and maybe a well-padded bottle of wine!) and use a tinier pack to bring home important things and treasures. If I tuck in a bottle of wine, it feels more protected in a roller with some shape to it, though I must admit, it survived in a soft pack too - I was just worried.

And then there's also the idea that on public transport, the backpack feels more awkward to me - if I wear it normally, I can't keep my eye on it or sit down easily, so it seems like I always have to swing it off and on... By the end of a trip, it always feels heavy...

Pros for the backpack is that it is much quieter to move around - I don't like the sound of the roller on cobbles... It's lighter on it's own as you have noted, and I feel younger and stronger when I commit to the backpack - a throwback to my college days of traveling around on a Eurail Youthpass'.

I don't see the point of a convertible backpack-- way way too heavy.

So the rationale for a wheeled backpack is that you don't have the discipline to pack light - admit it.

Strangely not a lot of direct comparison.

I'll give you a direct comparison. I've used a backpack since (11 trips, 24 weeks). On our second trip together (3 weeks), my partner, who is mobility challenged, brought her 2-wheeled roller. We used trains and buses; I ended up handling both bags. When we got to a station, I put on my backpack. When we stopped, I deployed the handle and rolled her bag to the stairs, collapsed the handle, picked it up and carried it down the stairs to the vestibule, then lifted it onto the platform. I deployed the handle, rolled it to the stairs, again collapsed the handle, and carried it down the stair to the tunnel. There I deployed the handle, rolled it to the next stair, collapse the handle and carried it up the stairs to the next platform. On the platform I deployed the handle, rolled it to the train, then lifted it into the vestibule and carried it up the stairs to our seats. Then I took off my own bag.

That is no exaggeration. Literally all of my attention from the time I put my convertible bag on when the train stopped until I took it off on the next train was taken handling her rolling bag. So here is your direct comparison. Handling a rolling bag is a lot more effort than handling a backpack.

So, if you find a backpack too heavy, try packing lighter. If you can't do that, get a backpack with a waist belt. Waist belts transfer all of the weight to you hips. I don't use one, because I pack light enough that I don't need one, but my last backpack came with a waist belt, and I found that with it, I was able to loosen the shoulder straps so that there was no weight at all on my shoulders.

I don't see the point of a convertible backpack-- way way too heavy.

I'm going to challenge your statement. Many who travel with convertible backpacks take less than 15-20 lb total and that includes the weight of the bag.

I have found that those who complain about the weight of the backpack tend to overpack. They have pack weights of 20-25+ pounds.

Many convertible bags are 2 lb or so. The MEI Voyageur is at 3.5 lb but has a complete backpack suspension, including internal aluminum stays and a lovely padded hip belt. It all stows away for travel. Let me assure you as someone that has backpacked many places that the MEI is one sturdy pack! I had some extra customization when I ordered mine. One of the things I added was a water bottle pocket.

In short, I believe you are making several assumptions that aren't true. That is biasing your selection process.

One thing to point out. Wheelie bags are easier in the airport but harder to use outside the airport. Backpacks are harder in the airport and easier to use outside the airport.

I've traveled with wheels and backpacks. I almost always take the backpack. The only time I use wheels is when I have to carry multiple pounds (reams) of notebooks and paper for work. Even then the bag is the RS rolling backpack. Because there's stairs and hip deep snow.

Yeah, this is going about the same way most previous discussions on the topic have gone.
1. Your fear of begin stuck in the airport implies you are using a carryon bag only so it's going to stay with you. A rolling bag won't help you deal with your fear and, by definition, it's a lot less weight on the back. My PacSafe is easy to 'manage' because of the security features built into the straps ' although I've never noticed they were actually necessary, just comforting.
2. Are you saying that you 'often hike' on your travels and need luggage that does both jobs? Hiking backpacks are designed and built to satisfy different situations than most travelers require. A sturdy harness, external pockets, and a comfy hip belt are readily available from many mfrs like Osprey, North Face, LowePro, REI. Two tradeoffs when buying a travel pack from a company with backpacking DNA: usually overbuilt and heavy, and the harnesses may not safely stow away. My PacSafe is just a bag. It has no frame structure at all and the hip belt is for stabilization only. I will not replace it with another PacSafe product (it was on deep discount) but the Vibe40 does the job at the moment.
3. A backpack suitcase is going to weigh MUCH less than a wheelie. And you can find ultralight backpacks but they won't satisfy your need for structural beef. The thing about ultralight gear is you give up bombproof construction and mass for minimum features and light materials at the expense of being required to pay close attention to your gear.

4. Baggage handling is totally unpredictable. Your bag may not arrive. It might be opened or damaged beyond use. If you want to keep track of your bag, you're going to be using a carryon. They come as backpacks, wheelies, and convertible wheeled backpacks. Osprey's Meridian (which I took on four domestic flights) is a 40L two-wheeled bag that converts to a backpack with a hidden harness. It also has a matching snap-on personal sized backpack. Remarkable device. Just not my style so I took it back to REI and got the PacSafe, which masses less than half and has zero extraneous and luxurious features.
Shopping for the right bag is fun but can be frustrating because of the huge variety.

These 'which bag?' discussions/arguments never lead to enlightened conversions. Similarly, I could never convince you that go is a superior game to chess without playing a hundred games. Experience is your only teacher.

You could try onebagging on a short trip by borrowing someone's 25-40 liter backpack style bag. Most airlines impose a 7kg/15# carryon mass limit so you must pack lightly. (Packing light is an entirely different discussion. Lots of folks can get by with two or three days of layered clothing, doing laundry every other night. Other folks require a fresh and complete change of outfit every day.)

You have found the subject with the biggest arguments. There are some here who believe there are two ways to travel.....their way and the wrong way. You will learn who to ignore.

I will give you a direct comparison. For years I traveled with a convertible backpack. Then as I got older and my back started to bother me after having the weight on my back. I switched to a two wheeled carry on bag. I had many different ones. For my last trip, I used a four wheeled carry on sized spinner.

There is no one perfect bag but pros and cons to each.

The backpack goes on your back, keeps your hands free, and in some cases will make it easier to carry on with the very restricitve airlines. On the down side, if you are not used to it your back may hurt and you may become sweaty after carrying it for a long time.

The two wheeled bag will take the weight off your back and shoulders but may add some strain to your arm and shoulder from dragging it. For long distances you will probably not feel as sweaty or tired. You will have to pick it up for stairs but it should roll easily on most surfaces. It will allow you to take a little bit more--no sin by the way except to a few people here--without having to worry that it may cause pain.

Four wheeled bags makes wheeling on smooth surfaces effort free. They may not roll as well on rougher surfaces but many just tip them on their side and use them like a two wheeled roller. The extra wheels do take away some packing room.

According to the Travel Goods Association--about 90% of travelers use wheels. (This also includes checked bags.) Spinners are now the most popular type of bags.

Regardless of which way you go, packing lighter will make handling of these bags easier. Remember, no one here is you, has your likes or dislikes, or knows what you can handle physically. I would suggest trying each type before your trip. Borrow a convertible backpack or any larger backpack, pack it like you would for a trip, and take a walk. Borrow two and four wheeled bags and do the same. It may not be a perfect test but you will get an idea which you prefer.

I was lucky enough to travel when I was a kid and have done a few different styles. A few things I'd discovered.
1. Whatever you choose, pack it up full like you would on a trip. Then take about a mile walk around your neighborhood and see if it works for you. If it doesn't, then return it and try another option.
2. Backpacks - I've done a number of different ones. You really have to try them out and wear them for at least an hour straight while doing what i said in point 1. If you have an uncomfortable one, it's a disaster. It can be anything from the strap placement or the back will make your back a soaking mess on a hot day.
3. Spinner bags - My wife has one (actually on her second). She cranks out lots of miles every year in Europe and thus hers wore out the wheels in 3 years. The main issue ends up becoming the set that are on the side of the handle. This is because they get the most wear. The bag is handy and works great in airports. Trains, planes and bad streets it's OK and I would never get one bigger than the 21" or 22" size unless you are on business and going from airport to train then to motel and camped out for two weeks. As for the wheels when they wear out, the bag is then useless. If you are handy, Amazon sells a whole assortment of replacement wheels that are much better than the OEM ones. I salvaged one bag and now my kids use it.
4. Two Wheel bags - That's what I have and they are great but you just got to know how to maneuver them successfully and understand that you can easily cut off others in an airport. Plus, if you know how to use a wheel truck, you can push it down in front of you in an airplane and train. Stop and get it in an overhead bin right away.
5. Soft or hard - A personal preference. I did find out that when using soft wide, that there are two things with helps. 1. Spray the fabric down with a waterproof spray you use for shoes. It works and there will be a time you are in the rain and it at least keeps most of it from getting soaked. 2. Take a paper towel and soak it with Armor All. Wipe this all over the zippers when they are open. Then do it when closed. Operate the zippers a few times and they will operate better than new. The company used to advertise this back in the 70's but they stopped. I do it today on many zippers and it is a night and day difference. Even on new zippers.

For me, I have a two wheel hard case (Nanuck 935). It's bright orange and sticks out like a sore thumb. It's more than waterproof, it'll float in a swimming pool when full of clothes. It's not the best when it comes to space but i pack around it. i then have a 10 year old backpack that I use for hauling my laptop for work. When not working, no laptop and plenty of easy space. It's some old Swissgear unit. When I went to Amsterdam for 3 days a while back, all I needed was the backpack. Anything longer (if I'm going to do something that needs more stuff) then the luggage goes with me.

Sweetshell, don't think you have to use a backpack. You only need to be able to manage your luggage on your own.

You will find that most people traveling in Europe, including those on RS tours, use rolling bags of some kind. If you cannot comfortably carry a backpack weighing about 20 pounds fully packed, go for something with wheels or pack much lighter.

A couple of years ago I got the RS Appenzell backpack. I tried my best, but I couldn't get the weight down to <15 pounds, and even that was too heavy. I do use this pack for short domestic trips where the weight is <10 pounds.

Ten years ago I got an RS convertible carry-on backpack and used it on 2 European trips for a total of 3 months. By , I was 66 and I was done with carrying that much weight on my back. My husband still uses his, loads it way too heavy, whines and looks for a luggage cart.

With a good, lightweight (<6 pounds) roller bag of carry-on size, that has a U-shaped handle, you can put a cross-body tote with a sleeve over the handle and roll them together at the same time.

No matter what bag you use, you need to stay within the carry-on size requirements which are the exterior dimensions including wheels and handles. Depending on the airline, the carry-on size could be smaller and have a maximim weight.

Next trip I'll be using this 2-wheel Eagle Creek Load Warrior 20 International Carry-on. At about 4.5 pounds, it's the lightest rolling bag I found that I could afford, on sale if course. Scroll down the page to see a comparison of it to the similar 22x14x9 one.

I'd resisted buying a bag with a T-shaped handle because of the inability to slip a sleeved tote over the handle and have it be stable. However, this bag has an "Equipment Keeper" that can secure a jacket to the top and I can wear my cross-body bag. At 2.2 oz, this year's cross-body tote is very light indeed.

I'm more concerned about weight this year because I'll be flying on 3 different intra-European airlines with different carry-on weight limits and I'm targeting the most restrictive of those.

Packing light usually concentrates on the number of garments. I also obsess over the weight of the garments. It sounds silly, but I weigh everything, pack the lightest things I have for my limited but coordinated travel wardrobe and weigh the packed bag when it's ready to go. Too heavy? I Ieave something at home.

The prices for a good carryon range from $90 to $300.

Probably the best carryon I ever had was my Outdoor Products (now Campmor) Essential Carryon for $30. It's light weight (1.8#) and well enough made for a carryon. I used it for 5 or 6 two-week trips (until it became to big for my reduced packing needs) and it held up very well. I only stopped using it because as my total packing volume got down to ci, the half full beg sagged badly. I opted for a somewhat heavier eTech bag with cinch straps.

The REI 4.0l duffle appeals to me because it is lighter than my current bag and has cinch straps. With my packing volume, I could cinch it down to about 5 inches thick. However, REI's claim that at 10.3 inches thick it would meet carryon requirements because it's total L+W+H dimension is less than 45 inches is bogus. The airlines don't sit there and measure L, W, and H and add them together. They use a sizing frame and 10.3 inchs thick will not fit into a 9 inch wide frame. As long as you don't pack it to 10 inches it will fit. Actually, since it is less than 14 inches wide, you could probably pack it to 9½ inches and squish it to fit.

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