Backpack on wheels

In response to a similar question, I've seen someone suggest getting a backpack you like and then buying one of the super-lightweight folding luggage carts. Not as easy as when the wheels are part of the pack, but the overall weight may be a tad bit lighter and you can pick and choose when you really want to use the wheels. You'll need to have room in the pack to carry the wheels, though, when not in use.

I would recommend either the backpack or the rollaboard because of the weight. If you've decided on them, get a good brand; Osprey, Eagle Creek etc. Try changing from backpack to roller and think about quick train or plane connections.

The MLC rolling backpack weighs almost 7 pounds and costs $229. the MLC convertible backpack weighs less than 3 pounds and costs $159. This is from the ebags.com website. With several trips to Europe and experience with cobblestones and hotels without elevators, I've settled on the convertible. That's just my opinion, of course, and your needs may be different.

Camille I bought and use this one and I am very satisfied: http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&qscrl=1&nord=1&rlz=1T4GGNI_enUS462US462&q=eagle+switchback&gs_upl=&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.,cf.osb&biw=1542&bih=770&ion=1&wrapid=tljp1328278802208027&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=265229399957163846&sa=X&ei=Ou0rT6raH4vdggfz4a0C&sqi=2&ved=0CE0Q8wIwBQ

Camille I see my attempt at a link didn't work .. it was a Eagle Creek Switchback Max 22 look on amazon for deals..understand it is a 2 piece unit.. Main Bag: Zip-Away Connect Fit Adjustable Suspension Carry on travel bag Converts from backpack to wheeled luggage solution Finger friendly and durable zipper pulls Front panel loading for easy packing and unpacking ES Wheel and Handle System made to withstand the most rigorous of journeys while providing a comfortable carry Sole Patch corner guards Organize this bag with the Pack-It™ System Meets most airline carry-on requirements No Matter What™ Warranty Detachable Modular Backpack: Moisture wicking Air Mesh with breathable foam back panel Sternum strap, contoured shoulder straps and padded waist belt provide ergonomic stabilization Finger friendly and durable zipper pulls Organizational pocket includes fleece-lined electronics pocket, pen slots and key fob Side zippered pockets keep water and quick grab items close Suspended padded compartment fits most laptops up to 17" Back slip panel allows for stacking on wheeled luggage
Zippered back panel pocket helps conceal passport and other value travel documents

check out Eagle Creek I used to use one of their "convertible" backpack bags and it was very good and very durable
I have switched to pure wheeled suitcase now but still using Eagle Creek

Camille, I would also recommend Eagle Creek products, however given your location I suspect they may not be as readily available to you. Have a look at the "Dealer Locator" section on their website, as there may be a dealer in your area. Backpacks with wheels have a few inherent "issues" and you didn't indicate whether you had looked at those. There are two things to keep in mind: 1) The wheels and structure adds weight, so you'll be lifting a few extra pounds every time you use it as a Backpack. 2) The wheels and structure reduce the room available for travel gear. I'm assuming that you'll be checking the Wheeled Backpacks during air travel? Happy travels!

Harry, Bulletin Board Code, which is what this board now uses instead of real HTML, doesn't lend itself well to links. I have found that URLs with '?' in them won't work as links, and I think I have notice that '=' in the URL also keeps it from working. Assuming you don't have those symbols (and there are probably others) in the URL, format a link like this. A Bulletin Board link is enclosed in square brackets. Inside the right facing, opening bracket, type URL= and the url, including http://. Close the link description with the left facing square bracket, type the link name, then type /url enclosed in square brackets.

Thank you all so much all your replies are greatly appreciated.
Can't wait to go now.