Backpack Sizing For Extended Euro Trips

When travelling around Europe, a backpack is a great choice. It allows you to be highly mobile and is easier to carry than a suitcase or duffle bag.

The best size for a backpack for 9 days in Europe is around 40L-50L. This will give you enough space to pack what you need without being too heavy or bulky. It's important to pack light and only bring the essentials, as you'll be carrying your bag through busy streets, train aisles and airports.

Look for a backpack with comfortable shoulder straps and a hip belt to help distribute the weight. Also, make sure it has a lightweight design and durable zippers. Some other useful features include exterior pockets, a padded laptop sleeve and a waterproof material or cover.

Overall, choosing the right backpack for your European trip will make your travels much easier and more enjoyable.

Backpack capacity for a 9-day trip

When preparing for a 9-day trip to Europe, choosing the right backpack capacity is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Here are some key considerations and recommendations for selecting the perfect backpack size:

Backpack Styles

Before selecting a backpack capacity, it's crucial to understand the different styles available. The two main types are top-loading and front-loading backpacks. Top-loading backpacks have a single opening at the top secured by a drawstring and a protective flap. They are typically designed for hiking and offer advantages such as no zippers, better water resistance, lightweight construction, and a better fit. However, they can be challenging to pack and unpack, have numerous straps, and lack a dedicated laptop compartment.

On the other hand, front-loading backpacks open like a traditional suitcase or school bag. They provide easy access to your belongings, often include extra pockets, and are generally easier to organise. However, their zippers may be less durable and waterproof than top-loading backpacks, and some users find the fit to be less comfortable.

Backpack Capacity Recommendations

For a 9-day trip to Europe, the recommended backpack capacity is generally in the range of 40-50 litres. This size offers ample space for your belongings while keeping the weight manageable. It's important to remember that you'll likely be carrying this backpack for extended periods, so choosing a size that you can handle comfortably is crucial.

Some sources suggest that the duration of your trip doesn't significantly impact the required backpack capacity. You'll bring a similar amount of clothing and essentials regardless of whether your trip is two weeks or six months, as you can always do laundry along the way.

If you're aiming to travel carry-on only, it's crucial to consider the restrictions of budget airlines in Europe, such as Ryanair or Wizz Air. These airlines can be strict about baggage size and weight, so a backpack capacity of 45 litres or less is advisable to avoid additional fees.

Key Features to Look For

When selecting a backpack for your 9-day trip, consider the following essential features:

• Comfortable shoulder straps
• Hip belt to distribute weight to your hips
• Lightweight construction (aim for 3-5 lbs)
• Durable, high-quality zippers
• External pockets for quick access to frequently used items
• Ventilation or mesh backing to improve airflow and reduce back sweat
• Neutral or muted colours to avoid standing out too much

Additional Tips

To make the most of your backpack space, consider using compression packing cubes. These help compress your clothing, saving space and keeping your belongings organised. Additionally, a dedicated toiletry bag is recommended to avoid spills and improve organisation. Finally, always pack light and choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to reduce the number of outfits you need to bring.

Choosing between top-loading and front-loading backpacks

When choosing between top-loading and front-loading backpacks for your nine-day trip to Europe, there are several factors to consider. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key points to help you decide:

Advantages of Front-Loading Backpacks:

• Security: Front-loading backpacks typically offer more security than top-loading ones. They can be secured with a padlock, providing greater peace of mind, especially in crowded places or during travel.
• Ease of Packing: Front-loading backpacks are easier to pack and unpack due to their larger opening. You won't have to struggle with stuffing items through a small hole at the top, making it more convenient to organise and access your belongings.
• Sturdiness: Front-loading backpacks are usually made of tougher material. While top-loading backpacks prioritise lightweight design for hiking and adventure activities, front-loading backpacks provide extra durability.
• Frame Design: Front-loading backpacks often have a frame that helps maintain their shape, even when they're not completely full. However, some travellers consider a frame to be a disadvantage as it may render the bag unusable if it breaks.

Advantages of Top-Loading Backpacks:

• Better for Smaller People: Top-loading backpacks are thinner and fit better on smaller frames, making them easier to handle in crowded spaces or on public transport.
• Comfort and Support: Top-loading backpacks are designed for long-distance hiking, so they're built to distribute weight more effectively, taking the load off your back and onto your hips. This makes them more comfortable for walking long distances, even for extended periods.
• Lightweight: Top-loading backpacks are designed to be lightweight, making them ideal if you're counting ounces or grams to meet carry-on restrictions.

When deciding between a top-loading or front-loading backpack for your trip to Europe, consider factors such as security, ease of packing, weight distribution, and overall comfort. Remember to choose a backpack that suits your body type, travel style, and specific needs. It's always a good idea to test out different options in person to determine which one works best for you.

Carry-on luggage vs. checked luggage

When preparing for a trip, it's important to consider the pros and cons of carry-on luggage versus checked luggage. Here are some factors to help you decide which option is best for your nine-day trip to Europe:

Carry-on Luggage:

Carry-on luggage offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to save money by avoiding checked baggage fees, which can be costly, especially when travelling on a budget. Additionally, carry-on luggage provides quicker check-ins as you can skip the baggage drop-off process and go directly to security. This also means a faster arrival at your destination, as you won't have to wait at the baggage carousel. Carry-on luggage is also ideal if you're constantly on the move, as it enables convenient and quick packing. Furthermore, carry-on luggage reduces the risk of losing your belongings since it stays with you throughout the journey. Lastly, carry-on luggage is generally smaller and lighter, making it easier to manoeuvre through airports and during layovers.

Checked Luggage:

Checked luggage, on the other hand, offers the benefit of additional packing space. This is particularly useful if you plan to shop or bring back souvenirs, or if you're travelling to a cold destination and need bulkier clothing. Checked luggage also relieves you from carrying the weight of your baggage during your travel, which can be a significant advantage during long layovers or when navigating busy airports. Additionally, checked luggage may provide more peace of mind regarding overhead bin space on the plane.

Considerations:

When deciding between carry-on and checked luggage, it's essential to consider the nature and duration of your trip. If you're travelling for a short period, such as a weekend getaway, carry-on luggage might be sufficient. However, for longer trips or if you need to transport gifts or special equipment, checked luggage could be more suitable. Keep in mind that baggage fees vary among airlines, so it's important to check their policies before making a decision. Additionally, if you're travelling with valuable items, carry-on luggage might be preferable as it reduces the risk of theft or damage. Lastly, consider your packing style and the amount of clothing you'll need. If you prefer to pack light and mix and match outfits, carry-on luggage might be ideal. However, if you require a variety of outfits and accessories, checked luggage will provide the necessary space.

Recommendations:

For a nine-day trip to Europe, a carry-on backpack in the size range of 35-45L should be sufficient. This will allow you to stay within the carry-on limits of most airlines while providing enough space for your essentials. Additionally, a backpack will offer more comfort and manoeuvrability during your travels. Some recommended backpacks for European travel include the Osprey Porter 46L, the Salkan Backpacker, and the Tortuga Travel Backpack. These options provide a balance between size, comfort, and organisational features.

In conclusion, by considering the advantages and disadvantages of both options, you can make an informed decision that suits your travel needs and preferences.

How to pack your backpack

Packing a backpack efficiently is an art. Here are some tips to help you pack your backpack for your nine-day trip to Europe:

Planning and Preparation:

Firstly, gather everything you think you might need for your trip. Then, be ruthless and cut that pile in half—you won't need as much as you think. Focus on versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched or layered, and roll rather than fold to save space.

Packing Techniques:

• Start with your bulkiest items first, keeping weight low and centred.
• Use compression sacks for bulky items like sleeping bags.
• Place fuel at the bottom of your pack in case of leaks.
• Put cookware in the centre of your pack, close to the back panel.
• Attach lighter items to the front of your pack with carabiners, balancing weight on both sides.
• Use external loops and straps for awkwardly shaped items like tent poles.
• Keep important items like survival gear and outerwear in the brain of the pack for easy access in emergencies.
• Pack heavy items such as shoes and electronics close to your body and in the vertical middle of your pack.
• Place medium-weight items at the vertical top of your pack, and lightweight items like clothes at the bottom.
• Roll your t-shirts to make them into thin rectangles that can be stuffed into gaps and down the sides.
• Pack pants and socks in a drawstring bag to create a layer or false floor, or use them to fill in gaps.
• Cover everything with a towel or sarong before pulling the drawstring tight to keep items from poking out.
• Use the rolling and coiling technique for all fabric items to cut down on creases.
• Use packing cubes to keep your items organised and condensed.

Choosing the Right Backpack:

• Aim for a carry-on-sized backpack, around 40-45L, to avoid checked bag fees.
• Look for a backpack with a hip belt to transfer most of the weight to your stronger leg muscles.
• Choose a backpack with a front-loading clamshell design, like a suitcase, for easy access to your belongings.
• Opt for a backpack with exterior pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and external water bottle pockets.
• Prioritise comfort with padded shoulder straps and a well-padded back panel.
• Consider investing in a theft-proof backpack with lockable zippers to deter thieves.

Backpack weight and comfort

When it comes to backpacking, weight and comfort are key considerations. A loaded backpacking pack should ideally weigh no more than 20% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, your pack should not exceed 30 pounds. This guideline can help you maintain a manageable weight and protect your joints and improve comfort. However, it's important to note that for very petite backpackers, this percentage may not be achievable due to the minimum amount of gear required.

To enhance comfort, it's recommended to have a backpack with a hip belt that can hold up to 80% of the pack's weight. Padded shoulder straps and a well-padded back panel are also essential for a comfortable journey. Additionally, a hiking-style suspension system can significantly improve comfort by transferring most of the weight to your stronger leg muscles.

When choosing a backpack, it's crucial to consider the trip's duration, the season and weather conditions, and your personal preferences for comfort items. These factors will influence the weight of your pack. For example, colder temperatures will require heavier and warmer clothing and gear.

To reduce pack weight, it's recommended to know your base weight, which excludes consumables like food, water, and fuel. Ultralight backpackers typically have a base weight under 10 pounds, while lightweight backpackers aim for under 20 pounds, and traditional backpackers stay under 30 pounds. Replacing old gear with lighter options, eliminating unnecessary items, meal planning, repackaging, and using a gear list can also help reduce weight.

When it comes to comfort and weight distribution, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, Osprey Atmos AG 65, and Osprey Aether 65 are highly recommended options. The Blaze 60 is a lightweight pack that can comfortably support up to 50 pounds and offers a range of practical features. The Atmos AG 65 stands out for its innovative anti-gravity suspension system, providing exceptional weight distribution and ventilation. On the other hand, the Aether 65 excels in carrying heavier loads with its sturdy and adjustable design.

Frequently asked questions