I’m going on the 14 day tour in September. I’ve already purchased my carry-on. My question, what kind of day backpack do you recommend? If we stop for a tour before reaching our hotel, can we safely keep our backpack on the bus?
Posted by
France Southwest
3120 posts
What kind of bus safety issue are you talking about?
Do you mean getting off the bus and deliberately leaving your backpack inside?
Posted by
OP
7 posts
Yes I do, thank you
Posted by
Bellingham, WA
1289 posts
What type of day bag to use is a very personal decision. Many people use a backpack. I prefer a cross-body bag because I find it more convenient and secure.
I haven't taken an RS tour, but my understanding is that you can leave your things on the bus while you're visiting sights. In fact, I recall reading somewhere that you can leave items in the bus's luggage hold throughout the tour.
Posted by
1521 posts
I assume you mean a Rick Steves' tour. I always take a backpack on the bus with raincoat, RS book, essentials I may need throughout the day, etc (mainly to be keep organized) and put my small crossbody purse in the backpack as well. Then I take my crossbody with me when we get off the bus and leave anything I don't need for a particular stop in the bus. Yes, it's always safe to leave things on the bus; as the bus driver always locks the bus up when he isn't in it. And just take everything with you at the end of the day.
Posted by
Chicagoland
1150 posts
I'm sure others who have traveled on a Rick Steves' Tour will chime in. But, I think it is safe to say you can leave your day pack on the bus when the tour stops for sightseeing or a rest break. The bus will be locked or the driver will stay with the bus.
Regarding what kind. Some will use lightweight daypacks or school type backpacks, some will use a tote bag with shoulder strap.
Take a look on this site. Rick has an online shop that sells daypacks and totes. This will give you some ideas.
You want a small bag since you'll be carrying it with your carry-on to and from hotels, but still large enough to hold what you consider day essentials, maybe rain jacket, snack, guidebook, camera or portable charger, any meds needed during your day including your preferred pain reliever...