The eternal debate: Backpack or suitcase?
When I first started solo traveling, I thought I could live out of carry-on only forever. Spoiler: I couldn’t. After struggling through airports with two backpacks, I finally caved and bought a Samsonite suitcase – and never looked back.
But the truth is, neither option is perfect for every trip. Whether a backpack or suitcase is better depends on your travel style, destination, and personal preference.
In this guide, I’ll help you decide which luggage is right for your next trip, with real-world advice, pros and cons, and expert recommendations.
1. Backpacks for Solo Travel
If you’re planning to move around a lot, hop between budget hostels, or explore places with bumpy roads, stairs, and uneven terrain, a backpack is often the best choice.
Pros:
- Hands-free and easier on rough terrain like cobblestone streets and dirt roads
- More flexible for different types of transport (buses, ferries, tuk-tuks)
- Helps you blend in more (backpackers are everywhere, wheeled suitcases scream “tourist”)
- Great for budget travel and destinations without elevators
Cons:
- Can get heavy quickly, especially if carrying tech or winter gear
- Less organised, as top-loading backpacks make it harder to access items
- Not ideal for long-term travel unless you’re a minimalist
Best for: Adventure trips, budget backpacking, and destinations with limited infrastructure.
Recommended Backpacks for Solo Female Travellers
If you’re going the backpack route, look for one with adjustable straps, back ventilation, and a hip belt for extra support.
- Osprey Fairview 40L – Cabin-size, female-friendly fit, comfortable to carry
- Deuter Futura Air Trek 50+10 – Great for hiking and longer trips.
- Nomatic 40L Travel Bag – Stylish, durable, and perfect for digital nomads.
2. Suitcases for Solo Travel
If your trip involves smooth pavements, hotels or Airbnbs, and a long-term stay, a suitcase makes packing and moving around much easier.
Pros:
- Easier to wheel through airports, train stations, and smooth pavements
- More space and organisation, especially with packing cubes
- Less strain on your back, which is crucial for longer trips
Cons:
- Nightmare on stairs and cobblestones (European streets will test your patience)
- Less flexible on local transport (taxis and buses often don’t have space for big suitcases)
- Harder to carry if needed, especially in places with no lifts
Best for: Longer trips, city breaks, and travellers who like to stay organised.
Recommended Suitcases for Solo Female Travellers
When choosing a suitcase, go for durability, lightweight design, and spinner wheels for easy maneuverability.
- Samsonite S’Cure Spinner 69cm – Lightweight, durable, and great for check-in
- Antler Clifton Cabin with Pocket – A stylish, hard-shell carry-on
- Away The Bigger Carry-On – Perfect for organized packing and fits most airline requirements
3. What I Use Now & Why
I started with a backpack, convinced I could live out of carry-on only. That did not work out. After struggling through airports, I switched to a Samsonite check-in suitcase – and it’s been a game-changer.
Now, I use both, depending on the trip:
- For long-term travel: A check-in suitcase for my main luggage + a small backpack for valuables and day trips
- For short trips: A carry-on backpack for quick getaways + a packable tote bag for extra space if needed
This combination keeps me practical, organised, and saves my back while still giving me the flexibility of a backpack when needed.
If you’re unsure which to pick, here’s a simple breakdown:
- Choose a backpack if you’ll be taking lots of buses, boats, or staying in hostels
- Choose a suitcase if you’ll be flying frequently, staying in hotels, or needing more organisation
- Consider using both if you want the best of both worlds -a suitcase for your main luggage and a backpack for daily essentials
The best advice? Choose what works for you. If you’re still unsure, try borrowing a backpack or suitcase before committing.
4. Final Thoughts & My Best Advice
There is no one-size-fits-all answer – it depends on your travel style and the trip itself.
- Pick a backpack if you’re going on an adventure-heavy trip, staying in hostels, or using public transport a lot
- Go for a suitcase if you prefer comfort, organisation, and longer stays
The best thing you can do is test both options. Try a weekend trip with just a backpack, then a city break with a suitcase, and see which one feels better for you.
Before You Go…
If you’re planning your own solo trip my Solo Travel Lifeline might come in handy. It’s like having a travel buddy in your pocket – without the awkward small talk.
Need a ready-made plan? Check out my 3-day travel itineraries for popular destinations – they’re packed with tips and can save you a lot of guesswork. If you want something more personalised, I also offer custom itinerary planning to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
Need a place to stay? I’ve got some handy affiliate links for Booking.com and Expedia to make planning a bit easier. If you book through them, I may earn a small commision – at no extra cost to you – so you’d be helping a fellow traveller out.
And if you want real time action, follow me on Instagram, TikToK or join the Sisterhood of Solo Travellers on Facebook for tips, stories, and the occasional travel mishap.
If you’re interested in Southeast Asia, you might enjoy my posts about Koh Lanta and Phu Quoc.
Join the conversation! Are you team backpack or suitcase? Let me know in the comments below.
More travel guides:
Check out my Solo Female Travel Packing List
Read my Best Travel Insurance for Solo Female Travellers
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