I have a 2-part backpack question. With 2-3 weeks of travel in Italy by train, my wife and I were thinking of utilizing 2 backpacks each, one to carry our clothes, etc. until we get to our lodging (then leaving it there), and then utilizing a small light day pack for camera, jacket, etc during daily touring. We're also considering instead of a light day pack, using a small shoulder style messenger bag for the daily outings. Has anyone gone this route before? Any pros or cons to this approach, or other considerations to think about? Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Boulder, CO, USA
719 posts
This is the route that my wife and I have used on every trip we've taken to europe. One caveat though, is that you might have some snooping in your pack (might isn't a strong enough word. You WILL have some snooping...), so keep your valuables in your money belt. I use a daypack, my wife uses a shoulder bag, and we alternate which day we're carrying the stuff (or she usually carries the stuff....) While the backpacks have been unzipped before, nothings been lost. This works really well for us.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
A back pack is not really a good idea when touring the cities of Italy. There are lots of pick pockets and back packs make easy targets. If you are just touring with a camera and a lens or two a small bag that can be worn across the body is the best suggestion. Keep you money and credit cards in a money belt and you should be fine. Don't take a jacket with you unless you know you'll need it that day. Most of the time you'll just end up carrying it as extra weight. As for the backpack for train travel, I would go with a small carry on type bag. It should be light enough to not be a problem and is less likely that someone will get into it than with a back pack. They should fit in the over head bins or behind the seats on the train. Donna