Convertible Carry-On vs. Classic Backdoor Bag

AP, Before deciding on a Backpack, I'd suggest not limiting yourself to those two products. Depending on how much you're carrying, the Classic Backdoor Bag could become uncomfortable very quickly as all of the weight will be resting on your shoulders. You might also have a look at Packs from Eagle Creek or Osprey. The most important criteria in choosing a Backpack is torso range, and it sounds like you weren't properly fitted for your REI pack. Both of the above brands have models that are designed for women, and you may find that one of those fits you much better. A few other features you might consider are a detachable Daypack (works great for carry-on when the main Pack is checked) and a stowable harness system (straps are stowed behind a zippered panel to prevent damage from airport conveyor systems). You should be able to find a local dealer for EC or Osprey, and it would be a good idea to try the pack you choose for an hour or so when it's fully loaded to see if the fit works for you. Given your location, you could also take a drive to Edmonds, have a look at the ETBD Packs and speak with Rick's product experts. Happy travels!

My hsuband and I recently bought some Osprey packs. They are very roomy, and perfect for a carry on. We got them from REI!

I've had the same Waypoint convertible backpack since 2000 and really like it. (It's gone with me on more than 20 trips, including many to Europe and two to Asia.) It has a waistbelt, padded straps, and a reinforced back. I bought my mother a RS classic backdoor bag in 2003. When we travel together, I can walk a lot farther with my pack on because of the reinforcements and the waist belt. My pack also holds more than hers, but hers fits more easily in overhead compartments on planes. Both expand (a nice feature after getting off the plane). We both prefer to choose our own style of daypacks rather than have the detachable kind. My biggest advice: choose a backpack you have tried on if possible. My sister, who has a short torso, bought an Osprey based on reviews and hated it because of the fit on her body; she now has a Jansport she loves. (I bought mine at a store in town that has now gone out of business and don't know what I'll do when I need another one!) Expect to spend $100+ for a quality pack that will last. Good luck!

I would not use either. Both are way too big for someone 5'5". (I'm nearly 6' and would not use such a big bag.) If you decide to haul that much stuff, better find a bag with an internal frame. As far as I can tell, the Ospreys all exceed carry-on limits, if enforced.

Unless you are going on a hike through the mountains, you will probably only wear the carry-on for short distances at a time: at the airport, enroute to your hotel, or to your car or a train between destinations. Get something that is comfortable but don't stress out over it. If weight is a problem, then you packed too much to begin with. I have both a RS classic bag and a RS convertible carryon w/waist strap, and have used both. I bought both several years ago, and the expandable bag was supposed to be for my wife, but she refuses to give up her rollie. Of the two, I find the classic bag more comfortable. I am not much taller than you and have had no problems with the fit. The waist strap on the expandable bag is supposed to help distribute the weight, but I don't use it even when I take that bag. The only advantage of the expandable bag that I can see is when you collect souvenirs and want to sent the expanded bag back in the hold of the plane as luggage.

I'm not exactly an expert on backpacks, but we have both bags you mention in our family. My 5'3" wife likes the waist belt. I just have the classic. We both like our bags. Of course you should consider other brands - especially if you are planning to do "real" backpacking with long walks. The Rick Steves bags specialize in being lightweight to help meet strict carry-on requirements and really are intended for shorter hikes from the train station to the hotel and such - not spending all day hiking across Switzerland. But then again, THAT type of bag might not meet carry-on requirements and might cost a small fortune.

If you get a "real" backpack with internal stays to carry the weight down to your hips rather than your shoulders, you'll spend $150-$300. It probably won't fit the carryon length restriction and it'll weigh more than most rucksacks. I suggest you start reading on bootsnall.com for suitable packs.
P.S. Learn the difference between a travel pack and a hiking pack. Have a great time!

When I started making long trips, back in 2001, I bought the RS convertible. When I got back from the first trip I immediately retired the RS and bought an Eagle Creek convertible. The RS waist belt did not take enough of the weight - almost all of it was on my shoulders. The Eagle Creek is still going strong after over 2 years actual travel time. You need a good hip belt - not waist. And I agree you should test drive the pack - if you have an REI store they carry Eagle Creek. (I just bought the RS wheeled bag- must be getting old!)

I would choose neither. My first bag was similar to the "classic" bag. I was miserable. I then bought an MEI bag (they now only sell them over internet) which had a lumbar cushion, well-padded hipbelt, and multiple places to adjust the shoulder straps. This made a huge difference. If you are planning to do a lot of travel, there is no substitute for trying on the bag and getting some professional advice. Go to an REI or similar store and try on some bags.

I vote neither. Neither has a decent suspension system. Go with either http://www.meivoyageur.com/ or http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___60795 The first offers a real suspension system. The second doesn't have a suspension system but is super light and if you don't go over board putting heavy stuff into it the suspension system isn't necessary.

I have an Osprey convertable pack that I love. Just to clarify on some of the other posts here, they do make a carryon sized pack- the Meridian 22 (the one I have but mine's a couple years old). I find it very comfortable and I'm similar specs but 2 inches taller than you. Definitely head to REI and try on the Ospreys and Eagle Creeks, preferably with some help to help with the fit issues. I know Eagle Creek makes women specific packs made for smaller torsos, but I don't remember if theyre carryon sized or not. My husband has a nice durable travel pack from The North Face that he likes a lot.
Since you plan on travel beyond Europe (and lots of it), I'd say go with the most comfortable and durable option you can afford.

Thanks for everyone's responses! I guess there is more options than just RS!! A trip to REI is in order. I also found a great bag from Tom Bihn and I plan to check out that store as well!!