Hi,
I purchased a couple day packs for my family trip to Italy. I see in the guidebook that several churches and security checkpoints do not allow "anything larger than a small bag". I'm assuming his packs are going to be ok, but I thought someone else who owns one could tell me if they've ever been turned away. I see in Venice they have a bag check near St. Mark's, but if I don't need to check the Rick Steve's bag, I'd prefer not to.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32398 posts
kristen,
It won't matter whether you're using a Rick Steves bag or another brand. Many historic sights won't allow backpacks, although you might be able to get by with something like THIS product.
Posted by
1970 posts
If it's the Civita or Ravenna - not a problem. For St. Mark's in Venice - carry it in under your arm - not on your back. Vatican - just don't bring any backpack at all. Limit yourself to a small purse or what you can carry in your pockets. Everywhere else - a daypack is not a problem. A couple of places in Florence had a bag check area for free. Not a problem. Most churches - not a problem. Just use a pack under 25 liters.
Do not carry anything important - like a wallet, passport - in the pack. Just day-trip comforts and travel info..
Posted by
1970 posts
Oh Ken ...
You just HAD to link Tom Bihn products again!
One of these days - I'm going to break down and get a synapse 19 bag. I truly do not need another bag. You make it tough for me - you bag enabler.
Posted by
Midwest
560 posts
Just saying we love what my family calls the “Rick”. Our first one we got when we took our 1st trip in 2006. We are still using it & added 3 more for the rest of the family. It has been everywhere & then some. My daughter is planning on taking it when she leaves for Solvkia next week on a school trip. I should do a commercial of all the places it has been! I would do as the others say & carry as a bundle under my arm in places that didn’t allow back packs. Only downside the side pockets do not hold water bottles well. They tend to fall out. We love our “Rick” bag!
Posted by
Edmonds, WA 🌨 ☂
12037 posts
Last trip ( 4 yrs ago) this bag had no problems going anywhere I went
However rules may have changed since then
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Even a "small bag" can look larger or smaller depending on what you've stuffed into it that day.