Backpack for 2

Robert, Although I usually travel solo, I'm not sure that's a method I'd ever consider for several reasons. > Should the airline "misplace" your main Pack, both of you will be without clothing and other necessities, perhaps for several days. The "worst case scenario" is that they never find it and it ends up being sold in the warehouse in Alabama. > Depending on how much gear you're both packing, you could easily exceed airline weight limits (which are becoming more restrictive) for a single piece of luggage. This could mean that (a) you pay a huge supplement or (b) they refuse to transport the pack. Check the airline websites for details. > If you'll be using European airlines during your trip, the weight and size limits are VERY restrictive. You could be looking at very expensive luggage surcharges! One point to note with European airlines is that they usually only allow ONE carry-on item per passenger. That doesn't mean "one plus a personal item such as a purse or Laptop case", it literally means ONE ONLY of the approved size and weight! My suggestion would be to use two Backpacks of ~65L each, and "split" your gear so that you both have something in either Pack. You could use Packing Cubes to keep your gear separate from your fiancé. If you haven't bought Backpacks yet, you might consider models with detachable Daypacks as they're great for carry-on. Models with a stowable harness are also a good idea. I use Packs from both Eagle Creek and Osprey. You should be able to find a dealer in your area. As you're leaving in a couple of weeks, you'll need to get this sorted ASAP! Happy travels!

The largest carry-on sized bag (and let's face it, for many of us that's the goal LOL) is around 2500cu; therefore, 5000 is exactly 2 of those...That's plenty of room, although if fully packed it's gonna weigh a ton (ouch; rubbing shoulders)... I have no recommendations - that's more than twice what I want to carry. I WILL recommend that you take on-board your airplane anything that would ruin your trip if you didn't have it, including some clothing for both of you, in your daybag - guidebooks, reservation confirmations, etc.

If you can get your packs this week (agree with Ken)(but then I always do)(well nearly always) you can get them filled and wear them around a little to get the balance right and adjust the waist strap. I have found that little readjustments are usually needed and its easier to find that out before you go. And less anxiety..

I assume the reason you are asking is because your fiance either can't or doesn't want to wear a large pack. So, as reasonable as the above suggestions are, they may not work for you. You could try using two equal, carry-on size backpacks for use only when flying, along with a smaller, book-bag size backpack for carry-on size items as your "hand bag" carry-on. Then, when you are done with the flying for a while, if your fiance doesn't want to carry a large pack around Europe, she can carry the book-bag size pack and you can stuff both her extra clothes and wad up the extra pack in your backpack - which no longer needs to meet any weight or size requirements. This only works if you both pack very light, obviously.

Thank you all for your suggestions. My original thought was to carry most of the weight. But after talking with her she is on board with the idea of 2 travel backs (1 for each). And using Rick Steve's backing suggestions one for female, one male, split the others as needed I am hoping we will be fine. Tomorrow we plan on checking a few out. Thank you all again for your responses as they helped out alot! Cheers, Robert

Robert, In choosing new Backpacks, BE SURE to have them properly fitted for each of your torso lengths. Most of the weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. A robust and well padded waist belt is one thing to look for. Any competent sales associate should be able to fit the pack properly. Also, consider the two other points I mentioned previously - a detachable Daypack (for carry-on) and a stowable harness system. You'll also have to consider whether you prefer panel load (with zippers which can be locked and easy access to contents) or top load (usually a drawstring at the top, difficult to secure and sometimes a bit awkward to access items on the bottom of the pack without unloading it). One point to note for your fiancé is that some manufacturers have special models designed for women. Good luck with your purchase!