Backpacks are often easier for a long trip with multiple stops! However, if you're visiting just one or two locations and won't be moving between accommodation options very much, a suitcase is a sensible option – especially if you're staying in a nicer hotel where a backpack will stand out!

The choice between a backpack and a suitcase depends entirely on your destination and the "style" of your trip. A travel backpack is the superior choice for "active" or "multi-destination" trips, especially in Europe or Asia where you might encounter cobblestone streets, steep stairs in train stations, or crowded local buses. Backpacks offer "hands-free" mobility, allowing you to use your phone for navigation or grab a snack without dragging a heavy bag behind you. However, a carry-on suitcase (spinner) is much better for "point-to-point" travel, such as a business trip or a week-long stay at a single resort. Suitcases offer better structure, which keeps your clothes wrinkle-free, and the four wheels allow you to glide through smooth airport terminals with zero strain on your back. For solo travelers in 2026, the "hybrid" approach is becoming popular: a 40L backpack that fits in the overhead bin combined with a small "personal item" bag. If you have back issues or are staying in luxury hotels with bellhops, a suitcase is the winner. If you are staying in hostels, taking trains, or exploring remote areas where "wheels are the enemy," a rugged backpack like an Osprey or Peak Design is the way to go.