Turkiye: wheelie vs backpack

My recollection is that the type of bus, the amount of storage and number of people on the bus varies considerably. I used the minibuses and dolmuses only for day trips, and so I didn't pay much attention to how to handle luggage. However, I do not recall any luggage storage under the bus. Some buses will probably have overhead storage, but I wouldn't count on it.

The bottom line is that I would be prepared to hold your luggage in your lap.

Your trip sounds amazing.

I vote for packpack and stable shoes.

In our 20s and 30s we did the backpack thing, but we packed way too many things, including books, LOL. We learned the hard way to pack light. In our 40s we went to wheelies, in part because our daughter had a ride-on Tiger suitcase and we were used to work travel.

But in 2022 I got a lightweight backpack (Dimensions 19 by 13 by 8 inch, 40 liters ) that I use most of the time that I go to Europe. I like how much more free that I am when I don't have a suitcase, and since I use transit, and walk to my hotels through cobblestone streets, but don't have to drag the wheels of the suitcases. The one drawback of a backpack is that it can get heavy and sweaty if you are carrying it around for a long-period.

I am headed to Turkey on 10/18 and I have decided to pack light the lightweight backpack plus a foldable backpack for daytrips.

Happy trails!

For my 5 week solo trip this year, i switched from a roller-bag to an Osprey 55L backpack and could not have been happier. I felt it was much easier getting on trains, buses and even taxis then having to drag my roller-bag. I also use a walking pole so it was nice not to have both hands occupied. Many of the newer backpacks make them for both men and women's bodies and have a mesh screen frame that holds the back pack off you back so you don't sweat. I tried both a new lightweight roller bag and the backpack around my neighborhood for several days before making my decision. For me the backpack easily won. I am a 73 yo woman and by no means in the best shape, but I kept the weight of my pack to about 18-20lbs. (I did leave the backpack in the hotel for any long distance hikes or walks but I comfortably walked a mile or two from the train or buses to my accommodations). For my daily outings I used a smaller day-pack. You might try each of them out and decide what feels better for your specific needs. If you live near an REI you can check out a backpack to try. I am planning a 6 weeks trip in spring 2025 to Turkey and beyond so I hope you will post about your adventure. Happy Trails

Thanks all for the great info. Sandy, you are inspiring, love it! Re the backpack vs wheelie, I was having so much trouble deciding I finally ordered the Hynes Eagle backpack with wheels. I think it could be perfect but we will have to see how it works during the trip! Exciting!