“To backpack or not to backpack?” That really is the question
It’s that age old question isn’t it? Should you backpack or take a suitcase with you?
Some hail backpacking as the next big thing since sliced bread, ok maybe that’s taking it a bit too far, but you know what I mean, backpacking is very popular today, not just amongst avid travellers but also with the average joe of travellers. What would you do?
Don’t judge me, but I gave into the hype, and bought a backpack… I did this just before my last holiday thinking “let’s give this a go”. You know what… I actually enjoyed having a backpack instead of having a suitcase.
I did a fair bit of research before buying my backpack and decided to go for an Osprey backpack. Yes, I know some of you will say “I don’t want to spend that much money on a backpack”, sure there are a lot of different backpacks available in various sizes and dimensions but here’s why I bought this specific backpack. I know you’re probably thinking, “If I get a backpack, all my clothes will get creased up and everything will be everywhere” but there is one thing that I have to tell you… Not all backpacks were created equal!
When you think of a backpack, you probably think of one big sack that you fill in from the top. When I did my research I found two major types of backpack, first there is the kind that opens at the top (and also at the bottom), secondly there is the kind of backpack that I have where a zip allows the backpack to open the whole way around. A lot of backpacks also come with a mini day-bag attachment to help you in your daytime exploration.
Below I’m putting one link for one of each type of backpack to aid you in your research.
Why does a backpack appeal to me?
A backpack is easier to transport being strapped to my back and therefore easier to move from place to place.
There is a limited amount of space in the backpack, which means I also limit the amount of “essentials” that with me.
The fact that the entire backpack will go onto my back, I will only take as much as I can carry thereby guaranteeing I don’t go over the airline’s weight limit (No I don’t mean me, I mean the luggage!).
Why do I feel a backpack may not be right for you?
A backpack is definitely heavy, if you aren’t keen on carrying a tonne on your back, this may not be the option for you.
If you plan to stay at one resort throughout your trip, a backpack may not be ideal.
Are you going to travel mainly on flat terrain? (i.e. on roads when moving from cab to hotel) then a suitcase may be a better idea as a lot of suitcases have wheels these days.
Do you like to have a slightly larger amount of “essentials” with you on holiday? Then a suitcase may be better than a backpack for you.
The time has come for me to leave the decision in your hands, good luck…
Let me know if you decide to take a backpack with you on your next adventure 😉
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Thank you for this great indepth review. I found it a throughly enjoying read! Please keep doing more like this.
I for one am going to stick to my suitcase, for now.
Keep travelling!! 👍🏼
Thanks Harps, have a look at my other posts too, hope you find something else that is useful to you 🙂