When traveling, I aspire to bring as little as possible. But that “little as possible” still requires a bag.
Most people traveling independently carry the large iconic backpack, particularly when planning extended hiking trips. I cannot comfortably support that weight, but that restriction still leaves me with a multitude of traveling options.
I’ve been traveling with an Eagle Creek bag, approximately 23″ X 13″ X 7″ carry-on size, with wheels, hidden straps for an optional backpack mode and a large expandable compartment, for about 15 years. ( I’m pitching the brand because I just sent it in for repairs as part of their lifetime warranty. The wheels, zipper and clasp were replaced, willingly, and the bag is almost as good as new. I just had to ship the bag one way, which set me back about $13.) I highly recommend those that stand by their products. Briggs-Riley is another company with excellent customer service and I am certain there are dozens more, but look for that lifetime warranty. I had no help with a very poorly constructed bag from Samsonite.
Despite the wheels, I still try to keep the weight to an absolute minimum. There are always stairs or hills to climb and transportation to get on and off of. The expandable compartment is great if needed, but I try not to use it. What I cannot fit into the bag, I do not bring and this has yet to be a problem.
Compromising my ability to walk on rough terrain for short distances is rarely an issue. Even when rocky or grassy I’ve only used the optional backpack mode once. If I plan a hike it will be for the day and I carry a small knapsack for the essentials.
The size of my travel bag keeps my transportation options open. I’ve managed on scooters and motorcycles easily enough; on certain buses and trains I can keep it near me. And plane carry ons are not only convenient, no chance of lost luggage or waiting endlessly at the baggage carousel, but they do not incur additional fees.
The smaller the bag, the less you bring. The less you bring, the less to fuss with. The less to fuss with, the better the trip. The better the trip, the smaller the bag.
Thank you for taking the time to read my post! Welcome to the tales of a woman solo traveler and thoughts to make today the start of something new. I hope you find information and inspiration in the text and images and join me in my quest for growth, wonderment and self-improvement.