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Do You Need A Backpack To Be A Backpacker?
Backpacking. We call traveling from city to city for a long period of time "backpacking" because we usually carry very few possessions with us in – wait for it – a backpack. But, what about the travelers who are doing the same exact thing, staying in hostels, eating street food, wearing the same clothes everyday and trying desperately to get off the beaten path, but with a suitcase? Are they not backpackers?I remember my first solo backpacking trip. I was 21 and going to Europe. To my mother, I agonized over and over again about needing the perfect backpack.
"Wouldn't a small rolling suitcase be easier to manuever?" she asked, eyeing my tiny 5'2" frame.
I scowled. "No, it must be a backpack."
"But, why?"
To this question I never quite knew what to say. "Well, you know, because it's called backpacking, not suitcase-ing."
In reality, I actually did want to use a small suitcase. It wasn't the amount of stuff I could take that was bothering me – after testing it out, the backpack fit way more than the small roll-on – but more the thought of actually having to carry a giant bag on my back in the hot European summer sun.
Once in Europe, I still agonized over my decision. Having the backpack did make me feel like I had a certain "backpacker status," however, I wasn't convinced it was actually more practical. It was annoying having to unpack all my things when I needed something from the bottom of my bag, and walking uphill with the pack on was extremely draining. Moreover, because it was summer I constantly felt overheated wearing it.
Now, after numerous backpacking trips around the world, I've learned a few things. For one, getting the right backpack can make or break a trip. For example, in Ireland I found a small hiking shop and tried on one of their smaller packs just for fun. Instantly, I was amazed at how much more comfortable it was than the one I had. I ended up buying it and ditching my old one, wasting a lot of money but gaining much happiness. Additionally, there are many features that vary from pack to pack. If you don't want to unload your things every time you need something from the bottom, consider a front-loading pack instead of one that is top-loading. Moreover, a cooling system on the back of the pack can keep you from sweating, and multiple adjustable straps with padding can be helpful. I also think backpacks with many different pockets and compartments are helpful, as it can help you stay organized.
I'm still not sure where I stand on the "needing a backpack to be a backpacker issue," and I've heard very mixed opinions on the subject. While a backpack is definitely easier to store while in a crowded hostel dorm and carry around when you're in a hurry, I don't think I would discount a person with the same travel style just for using a suitcase.
What are your thoughts on needing a backpack to be a backpacker?
[Wikimedia image via LHOON]
Now, after numerous backpacking trips around the world, I've learned a few things. For one, getting the right backpack can make or break a trip. For example, in Ireland I found a small hiking shop and tried on one of their smaller packs just for fun. Instantly, I was amazed at how much more comfortable it was than the one I had. I ended up buying it and ditching my old one, wasting a lot of money but gaining much happiness. Additionally, there are many features that vary from pack to pack. If you don't want to unload your things every time you need something from the bottom, consider a front-loading pack instead of one that is top-loading. Moreover, a cooling system on the back of the pack can keep you from sweating, and multiple adjustable straps with padding can be helpful. I also think backpacks with many different pockets and compartments are helpful, as it can help you stay organized.
I'm still not sure where I stand on the "needing a backpack to be a backpacker issue," and I've heard very mixed opinions on the subject. While a backpack is definitely easier to store while in a crowded hostel dorm and carry around when you're in a hurry, I don't think I would discount a person with the same travel style just for using a suitcase.
What are your thoughts on needing a backpack to be a backpacker?
[Wikimedia image via LHOON]
Filed under: Gear, Stories, Europe, Budget Travel
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
eva Apr 26th 2012 11:46AM
I think the idea is maneuverability. With a backpack it's a hell of a lot easier to run for a train you're about to miss, to pack and unpack in the tiniest or least accommodating of spaces, and to keep your packing as minimal as possible--literally, being able to carry everything on your back. With a suitcase, sure, you can possibly fit more, but it likely means you're stuffing it to the brim, meaning excess weight meaning less maneuverability and, at the end of (or halfway through) the day, little/no energy. Also, hands-free! How else can I get a quick sip of water from the bottle, check the map, or snap a few thousand photos while on the move?
Jessica Festa Apr 26th 2012 12:37PM
Excellent point! I've come to really love my backpack, although I've never actually done a "backpacking" trip with a suitcase to really compare. I did once try to fit all my backpacking gear into a small suitcase though, and had a lot of trouble!
Daryl Apr 26th 2012 7:47PM
I'm a suitcase guy. In hostels, I often feel like people with backpacks are looking down on me. Why is there such a divide? I think some people use their backpack as more of a status symbol representing how much of a hardcore traveler they are.
Fred Apr 26th 2012 7:47PM
You don't need one to be a backpacker, but you do need a backpack if you want to travel efficiently from city to city. It's about practicality, not being a stereotype.
Monica | Gap Daemon Apr 27th 2012 6:16AM
I must admit that I used to judge backpackers with suitcases but I'm coming round to the idea the more I travel. Suitcases are so easy and I there are only a handful of places I've ever visited that I couldn't wheel it - and compared to the torture of carrying a heavy backpack I'm starting to think that a suitcase might by the way to go...
Ryan May 2nd 2012 12:22PM
What if you are backpacking, like on a trail, from one place to another. Certainly a rolling suitcase might present a bit of a problem in that case.
I can only speak from my own experience however half of the time I´m "backpacking" I´m usually on the trail in some way or another.
How about wheels on my backpack though, with one of those handles that pops out. I might be able to get used to that.
niall May 3rd 2012 7:42AM
Back-packing for me is not just city to city? I would spend more time in the woods or at the beach. Whats this 'status' thing about its just a bag.?
In my opinion a suitcase would never be suitable for hiking/camping, which is how i spend most of my time back-packing. I love the idea of having everything i need on my back, like a snail or a turtle, foraging/fishing as i go.
And you do not need to take everything out of your back-pack to get at something, just priority pack!! My sleeping bag is at the bottom of my bag as i only use it once a day, clothes in the middle etc.
Its not about status its just common sense!! :)
Surge May 7th 2012 8:59AM
backpack, suitcase. Simply means to an end. Use which works for you best in your situation. Cheers and happy travelling.
Zara May 7th 2012 5:52PM
I am a backpack with wheels kinda girl and recommend it anytime I can.. It's the best of both worlds and adapts to ANY situation! :)
Janet Julien May 7th 2012 3:20PM
Well, there is always a compromise, the Rolling Backpack. It has enough room for the necessities and can switch from rolling small suitcase to backpack in moments by lowering the handle and putting on the straps. Nothing easier. I use a wheelchair and it has saved me many hours of grief by its flexibility.
dan shay Jul 17th 2012 9:44AM
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