When planning a dream vacation through Europe’s quaint old towns and scenic small villages, one big question comes to mind: backpack or suitcase? From the cobblestone streets of Italy to the steep hills of Portugal, navigating Europe’s hidden gems requires the right gear. And when it comes to ease, mobility, and functionality, many seasoned travelers opt for the best backpack for European travel. But is it the right choice for your trip?
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Let’s dive into why a backpack could be your best bet when wandering through Europe’s beautiful small towns, and how it stacks up against the classic suitcase. By the end, you’ll know exactly which travel companion suits your European adventure!
Why a Backpack Might Be the Best for European Travel?
Suppose your itinerary is filled with picturesque destinations like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, or Annecy, France. In that case, a backpack might just be the most practical, stylish, and hassle-free way to carry your essentials. Here’s why the best backpack for European travel wins out when you’re visiting charming and often hilly small towns:
1. Mobility on Cobblestone Streets
There’s something undeniably magical about walking down a cobblestone street. But, pulling a suitcase behind you on those uneven surfaces? Not so magical. Towns like Dubrovnik, Croatia, and Porto, Portugal, are filled with ancient stone pathways that make suitcases an impractical choice. A backpack allows you to navigate these historic streets effortlessly—no struggling with wheels getting stuck or bouncing awkwardly.
2. Tight Spaces and Narrow Alleys
Many old towns in Europe have charmingly narrow alleys, like those in the labyrinthine streets of Venice, Italy, or the white-washed corridors of Mykonos, Greece. A bulky suitcase can feel out of place, while a compact, well-organized backpack will allow you to slip through those slender lanes with ease.
3. Stairs and Steep Hills
If you’re planning to visit towns like Positano, Italy, or Mont-Saint-Michel, France, be prepared to face plenty of stairs and steep inclines. Lugging a suitcase up these steps could turn into a workout you didn’t sign up for. With a backpack, you can easily climb those stairs without breaking a sweat—or a wheel.
4. Flexibility for Multiple Stops
European travel often involves hopping from one location to another, especially if you’re exploring multiple towns on a trip. A backpack is easier to manage when transitioning from trains, buses, or ferries between towns like Bruges, Belgium, and Ghent. Plus, backpacks fit more easily into tight overhead compartments or under seats, giving you more flexibility as you travel.
5. Hands-Free Travel
If you love to snap photos of every charming detail (who doesn’t?), a backpack frees up your hands for capturing all those picture-perfect moments. Whether it’s the flower-draped balconies of Colmar, France, or the golden-hour glow over Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, a backpack lets you stay hands-free for spontaneous photo ops and street food stops.
Related Story: Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Backpack for European Travel
Situations Where a Suitcase May Have the Edge
While the best backpack for European travel often comes out on top for small-town adventures, there are a few scenarios where a suitcase might make sense.
1. Longer Stays in One Place
If you’re staying in one location for a longer period, such as a week in a quiet Tuscan village or a rented apartment in Girona, Spain, a suitcase may be a better choice. You won’t need to carry it around much once you’ve unpacked, and it gives you more space to pack extra clothes or souvenirs.
2. More Formal Occasions
If your European trip includes a blend of sightseeing and formal events—say, a wedding in a small village in the French countryside or a gallery opening in Florence—then a suitcase might offer the advantage of keeping formal clothing wrinkle-free. While backpacks are great for casual wear and day trips, rolling suitcases tend to provide more structure for delicate items.
Features to Look for in the Best Backpack for European Travel
If you’ve decided a backpack is your go-to for exploring Europe’s small towns, here are the key features to ensure you’re getting the best backpack for European travel.
1. Comfortable Straps and Padding
Exploring towns like Hallstatt, Austria, means a lot of walking, and the last thing you want is shoulder strain from uncomfortable straps. Look for padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel to keep you cool and comfy during those long explorations.
2. Waterproof or Water-Resistant Material
European weather can be unpredictable, especially in places like the Scottish Highlands or the lakes of Switzerland. A backpack made from waterproof or water-resistant material will ensure that your belongings stay dry during any surprise rain showers.
3. Multiple Compartments
Having easy access to your belongings is crucial when traveling. Look for a backpack with multiple compartments and quick-access pockets for your essentials like a camera, phone, water bottle, or snacks—ideal for grabbing what you need when hiking through Cinque Terre’s coastal paths.
4. Durability
Old European towns may have rugged paths and uneven terrain, so make sure your backpack is durable enough to handle wear and tear. Materials like ballistic nylon or ripstop fabric are excellent choices for long-lasting backpacks.
5. Stylish Design
Functionality doesn’t have to come at the cost of style! In Europe, where fashion and culture go hand-in-hand, a chic backpack is the perfect accessory for those Instagram-worthy shots, whether you’re in Santorini, Greece, or strolling through the lanes of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Best Backpack Picks for European Small Towns
Here are a few top recommendations for the best backpack for European travel, especially when visiting small and old towns:
1. Osprey Fairview 40
Lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for a few days of exploring, the Osprey Fairview 40 offers excellent organization with plenty of compartments. It’s ideal for wandering through the medieval streets of Bruges or hiking up to castles in Sintra, Portugal.
2. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45
With a focus on security, this backpack has anti-theft features like lockable zippers and slash-proof material. It’s the perfect choice for more crowded tourist destinations like Dubrovnik or Salzburg, Austria.
3. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
Stylish and highly functional, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is known for its versatility. Whether you’re exploring the canals of Annecy or shopping in Sorrento’s bustling markets, this sleek design will keep you organized while looking chic.
Conclusion: The Backpack Wins for European Small Towns
While suitcases have their place for certain travel styles, the best backpack for European travel is hard to beat when it comes to exploring Europe’s small towns and old cities. A great backpack gives you the flexibility to roam cobblestone streets, navigate steep staircases, and explore hidden alleys without a hitch. Whether visiting the sun-soaked hills of southern Spain or the charming villages of the Italian Riviera, a backpack ensures your adventure is seamless, stylish, and stress-free.
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