Is it better to travel with a backpack or handbag?

As a general rule of thumb, backpacks will offer better support for your back than shoulder bags, and so if you're carrying heavier loads, or have a longer commute in your day, then a backpack is probably the best option for you.



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Backpacks Are Better for On-Foot Navigation As mentioned, airports can be cramped even when they're not overflowing with bodies. And these days, they're extremely crowded more often than not — 2022 was the biggest travel year since before the pandemic, in fact.

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In the case of being able to bring a personal item and a carry-on, you should opt for something smaller like a briefcase, crossbody, or small duffle bag for under the seat, and reserve a weekender or a rolling suitcase for the overhead bins.

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As a general rule of thumb, backpacks will offer better support for your back than shoulder bags, and so if you're carrying heavier loads, or have a longer commute in your day, then a backpack is probably the best option for you.

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Carrying a backpack instead of a purse has massive benefits. My right shoulder is higher and tighter than my left shoulder from years of purse carrying. Wearing a backpack has not only prevented further asymmetry, but I am starting to see my shoulders even out.

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Because your travel purse will be stored on the floor of the plane under the seat in front of you, avoid material that gets dirty easily and is difficult to clean. Leather and nylon are travel-friendly materials.

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Keep your head high while lifting and carrying. Switch a purse or bag position frequently to avoid fatigue. For crossbody bags, switch shoulders often. Square your shoulders and avoid lifting shoulders to keep straps from slipping.

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There are a few reasons why brown, beige, and tan luggage are some of the best travel gear you can buy. First, these colors are very neutral, meaning they won't clash with your other travel gear or clothes. Second, they're relatively easy to find in a sea of black bags.

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Bring a backpack only means you can't pack as much stuff, and there's something so freeing about not really worrying about what you're going to wear, and not having to pack/repack every location you travel to! Like for real, you've got to try it!

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By putting a heavy weight on your shoulders in the wrong way, the weight's force can pull you backward. So people who carry heavy backpacks sometimes lean forward. Because of the heavy weight and this unnatural position, they can develop shoulder, neck, and back pain.

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Domestic carry-on policies. A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

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Security experts say that crossbody handbags are a good bet since you can easily keep an eye on your belongings. With these bags, your items are safely secured to the front of you or your side via bag straps that go all the way around your body.

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They're supremely useful, with room for essentials like your passport, credit cards, cell phone, and AirPods, and yet still lightweight enough to carry around all day. Plus, with a crossbody bag, your hands are free—which means you can easily snap a photo or look up directions while you're on the go.

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Travel light and tight The bag is closer to you, for instance. A shoulder bag can easily be swung forward to quickly get something out or slid back and out of the way with little effort. This also makes it a good choice for public transportation, so you can keep an eye on your stuff while taking up less space.

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Keep reading for our top tips for packing lighter.
  1. Pack for a week (or less) and plan to do laundry.
  2. Pack around one basic color.
  3. Don't pack any more than three pairs of shoes.
  4. Use a wardrobe planner.
  5. Pack visually.
  6. Know what to roll and what to fold.
  7. Use compression cubes and bags.


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Additional items you can take with you Your handbag, small backpack/rucksack, pocketbook or purse, as you would normally use it (in other words, not just being used to contain items that would otherwise be regarded as baggage). This must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

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While crossbodies are purses that are hard to pickpocket, make sure to keep them in front of you at all times when you're out and about. That way, you'll be able to see your valuables, no matter where you are!

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What is considered a personal item bag varies from airline to airline, but a small purse, briefcase and laptop bag are always considered personal items. Backpacks, totes, and crossbody bags are typically considered personal items too. The key to remember is it must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

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