Choosing the Best Luggage for Your Solo Trip

Choosing the best luggage for a solo trip can be a daunting task. There are so many different brands and styles to choose from, and it can be hard to know where to start. But don't worry, I'm here to help! The first thing you need to consider is the type of luggage you need for your final destination. Do you need a backpack for a quick day trip or something larger for longer vacations? Will you be on and off a bus or train or will you be spending lots of time walking through airports? Will you be traversing the mountainside, strolling down cobblestone streets, or relaxing in a hotel? Once you know what type of luggage you need, you can start shopping. Here are the most common options to consider:

Small Backpack

A small backpack has one main zippered compartment, 1-2 outer compartments, and possibly a water bottle pocket on the side. It may also have a compartment for a tablet or 13” laptop. A smaller backpack is a great option for daytrips, short trips to visit family, or an overnight stay in a hotel. A medium compression packing cube, basic toiletries, a mobile phone, tablet, water bottle and chargers can easily fit in a small backpack with room to spare. 

Large Backpack

A large backpack will hold a large compression packing cube while accommodating electronics, a bulky item of clothing, an extra pair of shoes, or other items that are too big for a small backpack but not quite large enough for carry-on luggage. Large backpacks have a larger laptop compartment, larger outer pockets, and multiple inner pockets for organization. I typically use my large backpack for 1-2 day cold weather trips. I still pack minimally, but it gives me a place to store gloves and scarves when indoors. It’s also helpful to have somewhere to put clothes when adding and removing layers while in transit.

Carry-on Luggage

Carry-on luggage offers substantially more space than backpacks and is great for 3-7 days trips. You can pack multiple pairs of shoes, 5+ days of clothes, travel size toiletries, and thicker items such as sweaters and jackets. These bags are stored in overhead bins on airplanes and trains and often in cargo holds beneath buses. The most common carry-on dimensions for major airlines is 22x14x9 inches. Some airlines only use just the bag’s dimensions while others include the wheels and any protruding objects or handles. If your trip includes travel on multiple airlines, check the baggage allowances for all of your flights and select luggage that meets the smallest allowable carry-on size. 

Convertible Roller Backpack

The convertible backpack is essentially a large backpack with wheels used as carry-on luggage. You can tuck the straps away and roll it around like 2-wheeled luggage or clip the straps in place and carry it like a traditional backpack. I use my convertible backpack on trips that have multiple destinations with different terrains. I also use this bag when I want the flexibility to be hands-free, but my bag will be too heavy to wear for long periods of time. Keep in mind that this bag can be very convenient, but the shoulder straps are less comfortable than a standard backpack and the wheels and handle increase the weight and dimensions of the bag.

Hiking Backpacks 

These backpacks are great for trips that primarily take place outdoors. They have one large inner compartment, various smaller compartments, and places on the outside to attach carabiners, sleeping bags, walking sticks, and other items that can be clipped or carried on the outside of the bag. I have yet to need either of these, but they should definitely be considered for outdoor activities such camping, climbing, or hiking. 

Soft-shell versus Hard-shell luggage

Hard-shell luggage is durable, provides protection from the elements, and offers an added layer of protection when transporting fragile items. However, hard-shell luggage is heavy, lacks external pockets, and is prone to cracking. The rigid structure also means these bags can’t be jammed into overhead bins. 

Soft-shell bags offer more flexibility and can be compressed to fit into tight spaces. They often have outer pockets that give quick access to things such as toiletries and electronics. Some are even expandable, offering 1-2 extra inches of space if needed at the last minute. However, these bags will eventually become visibly dirty and overpacking can cause you to exceed airline baggage limits. 

2-wheeled versus 4-wheeled luggage

Carry-on and checked luggage of all sizes can be purchased with a two or four wheel configuration. Two-wheeled luggage is ideal for uneven surfaces like cobblestone walkways. It is also the ideal way to carry heavy objects because the luggage can be pulled behind you. However, it can be hard to maneuver in small spaces with just two wheels and the bags have a tendency to fall over if you pack unevenly.

Four-wheeled luggage glides easily across hard surfaces in hotels and airports. The bags feel lighter and are easier to maneuver which means you can push two at the same time if needed. Weight distribution isn’t as much of an issue since the bag has four points of contact with the ground. However, more wheels means more opportunities for damage, and breaking just one wheel could render the luggage useless.

There are a few additional things to keep in mind when choosing the best luggage for your trip. Consider the quality of the construction. You’ll want your luggage to last, so make sure it’s made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. Also think about the features that are important to you. Do you need luggage with wheels that makes it easy to maneuver? Do you need something to protect electronics? And don’t forget about the budget. Luggage can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. No matter what your needs are, there is something out there that is perfect for you. With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect luggage to take on your next adventure.