I have been shopping and shopping for the perfect stuff to use in Europe. First I need a suitcase. I have a few cute ones, but no ordinary suitcase will do. Now you might be wondering why. There will be some backpacking happening. And I don't want to have to carry a duffel bag and putting to much stress on one single shoulder. There will be some areas that rolling a suitcase won't be possible. I have been searching the web and the stores, for a mix bag of backpack/ duffel/ suitcase with wheels. Turns out there are a few to chose from. They are know as hybrid bags. Also not planning on checking in any bags at the airport, carry-on only.
Here are two that I had bought.
With the Ospery and Eagle Creek you will be paying a little more. (OK, a lot more) I went with the Eagle Creek 22 switchback hybrid. It has pretty cool features. Can use it as a duffel/ rolling suitcase and a backpack. (Everything I was looking for) Besides the backpack straps it also has a hip strap. This will help balance the load of the back so all the pressure isn't all on the shoulders. A bonus is that it has a zip away day pack. Big enough for items that you will need through out the day and fun things that you buy. The other is a Lucas hybrid bag. It has all the same carrying qualities, minus the hip strap.
Now the inside isn't to fancy. There are no separation pockets for socks and undies. There is a good amount of room though. If you really need to separate your stuff like I do. (OCD) Then just get some cubes. You should have a few small cubes anyways to easily locate phone and camera chargers and an international wall plug. The Lucas bag is just like a regular suitcase inside. Which is really nice and convenient. It also expands for those treasures that you end up buying.
They both have handles for using as a wheeled suitcase. Both wheel around very nicely.
The Lucas has a good carrying handle like a regular duffel bag.
As you can see that there is a lot of benefits of having a bag like this. Now to figure out what is the better of the two. Krista maybe giving the Lucas a try. I will have a better review of the bags when we get back from our trip.
You might be wondering what is the price difference. The Eagle Creek is $340 (I did find it cheaper on eBay) The Lucas was $40 (found that one at Ross). I highly recommend shopping around and check with the online shops too.
Trip cost (will be updated as preps are made)
Passport renewal $110
Passport picture $10
Eagle Creek 22 switchback $260 from eBay
Next, I'll be talking about some of the other gear that shall be useful for adventures.
Leave a comment below on what travel bags you have and like.
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