Suitcases vs backpacks. What works better?

Planning a trip? Picking the best luggage to suit all your travel needs can feel like a make-or-break decision. Both suitcases and backpacks come with their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on factors such as trip duration, destination and travel habits. If you're unsure which is best for you, keep reading…

Benefits of backpacks

• Multi-destination travel: Frequently moving between locations? A backpack offers flexibility and ease, making it ideal for backpacking trips, city-hopping, and adventure travel.

• Easy to carry: Navigating with a large suitcase can be frustrating. A backpack allows you to move freely, reducing stress when catching flights or making connections.

• Short trips and getaways: Backpacks are particularly useful for short trips where you can travel light.

• Budget friendly: Most airlines allow small backpacks as carry-on luggage, helping you avoid extra fees.

• Warm weather destinations: If you’re heading to a tropical destination, a backpack is perfect for carrying light clothing, swimwear and essential accessories, without excess weight.

• Accessibility: With a backpack, you can keep your items close to you, reducing the risk of theft or loss. It also provides quick access to essentials like chargers, travel documents and water bottles.

• Transportation: If you’re in a rush to catch a train or bus, a backpack can be the difference between making it or missing it. Having your belongings on your back allows for quicker movement compared to rolling a suitcase.

• Easier to store in hostels and small rooms – Fits in lockers or under hostel beds more easily.

Considerations for backpacks

• Limited space: Not ideal for long-haul travel or colder destinations requiring bulkier clothing.

• Physical strain: Carrying a backpack for extended periods can be tiring and problematic for those with back issues.

• Not weather resistant: Soft shell backpacks can get soaked in rain and are more prone to wear and tear.

• Packing organisation: Unlike suitcases, backpacks don’t always allow for neat packing, potentially leading to wrinkled clothes and difficulty finding items.

• Less protection for fragile items – Electronics, souvenirs and toiletries are more likely to get damaged.

Benefits of suitcases

• Versatility: Suitcases are a great choice whether you're taking a weekend city break or a long-haul vacation. They offer ample space for all travel essentials.

• Easy mobility: Four-wheeled suitcases glide smoothly through airports, train stations and hotel lobbies, making them an effortless travel companion.

• Less strain on the body: Wheels mean you don’t have to carry heavy loads on your back.

• Weather resistant: A hard shell suitcase protects your belongings from rain and general wear and tear, reducing the risk of damage to your items.

• Packing organisation: Suitcases allow for better organisation with packing cubes, preventing the likelihood of wrinkled clothes and making it easier to locate items.

• Cold destinations: If you're heading to a winter destination, a suitcase is the better choice since it has more capacity for thick coats, boots and other bulky items.

• Safety: Laptops, gaming consoles and fragile items are better protected in a suitcase, making it a good option for business and leisure travellers alike.

• Less hassle for packing liquids: A sturdier exterior reduces the risk of bottles breaking.

Considerations for suitcases

• Uneven terrain: Cobblestone streets and rocky paths can make wheeled suitcases difficult to manoeuvre.

• Limited mobility: A suitcase limits movement in busy areas compared to the ease of carrying a backpack.

• Security: Unlike a backpack that stays on your back, a suitcase is more susceptible to theft.

• Bulk: If you're frequently changing locations, a suitcase can become a burden to transport.

• Potential fees: Exceeding weight limits can result in costly baggage fees. Check airline luggage size restrictions.

• Not great for stairs – Carrying a suitcase up stairs can be a hassle.

• Less flexibility for storage – Doesn’t compress like a backpack to fit into tight spaces.

What to look for in a suitcase or backpack

• Weight – Opt for lightweight suitcases or backpacks to avoid unnecessary strain.

• Wheels – Wheeled designs can offer maximum convenience.

• Capacity – Select a size that maximises space while still meeting airline regulations.

• Material – Consider water-resistant options for added durability.

• Style – Choose a design that reflects your personality and travel needs. Why not check out our it Luggage?

The choice between a suitcase and a backpack ultimately depends on the nature of your trip. If you're traveling light and moving frequently, a backpack is your best bet. If you need more packing space and protection for valuables, a suitcase is the better option. Weigh up your priorities, consider your destination, and make the choice that best suits your travel plans.