Convertible Carry-On or Roll-Aboard?

I have used Rick's convertible for more than 20 years (40+ trips). I am the same height as you. I find the bag to be VERY comfortable. And after all the trips- it still looks really good. It is so light and yet so durable!!!

my recommendation is for the carry-on. A lot of Italy in the hill towns and other older areas is cobblestone or brick and the rolling bags don't do so well over that kind of terrain. If you're in a hotel without an elevator you're going to have to lug that thing up the stairs. Since it sounds like you're familiar with backpacks, you should know the convertible bag has a waistbelt. Most of the weight should be carried thru the waistbelt to your legs and the shoulder straps are just for keeping it against your back; as in a real backpack, your shoulders aren't carrying a load.

As a reminder: if you decide to purchase a Rick Steves convertible bag, the Classic Back Door model does not have a waist belt or any expansion zippers (just shoulder straps); however, the Convertible Carry-On model has both of these features.

We did a RS tour of Italy and all of the people except the very youngest were using roller bags. When we walked down the street to the bus, it sounded like a tank! But the convertible bag would hold a little more, since it doesn't have to make room for the wheels and such.