Day Pack vs Lumbar Pack

It seems to me that any pack you wear completely on your back invites pickpockets. I use a day pack, but only on one shoulder so it's under my arm. Of course, the most valuable thing in it is my camera and my journal. Everything else is in a money belt.

I guess, I should differentiate between my lumbar pack (Mountain Smith @ 850 cu in)and a fanny pack. I'll keep my valuables in my money belt. But for rain jackets, first aid kit, etc.......

Daniel, I'm guessing that people don't understand lumbar packs.

you can easily use your pack for your trip. This question was also asked in "General Europe". The poster was debating between your Mountain Smith lumbar or buying a new bag. I recommend using the lumbar you have with the following caution:

As with any bag, keep it in front of your body when in crowded situations, and keep one hand on the zipper.

Keep the shoulder strap across your body to secure the bag, and use the waist strap too!

Lumbar bags are excellent choices for travel, not too big, usually several pockets, and a good size for day tripping/sightseeing for cameras/guide books, water, etc.

Don't waste money running out to buy a bag for this trip if the one you used for the festival worked and felt comfortable!

My daughter used a Kelty lumbar pack for her 2 week trip to Europe and loved it!

Glad to hear that others use these. I have a 1000 cu in one as well, but since it covers half my back, my wife would probably veto it! LOL! In any case, thanks for the tips. I plan on using either key rings or D-clips or quick connects for the zippers. And will definitely spin it to the front in crowds (easy, since I won't be using the harness).

If I can fit the pack in, I might try, but my first choice is the lumbar.