backpacks....check them?
Traveler
Posted on: Thu, 01/05/2008 - 11:16
Does everyone carry their backpacks on with them?
Im thinking of getting a backpack but it would probably be too large to carry on. Does that defeat the purpose? I dont have any long trips planned but i just got back from ireland and i am tired of lugging a suitcase around. Id rather buy a larger bag than I will need in the next year or two, and leave some space in it, than buy a smaller bag that may be too small for future trips.
Im concerned that checking a backpack would destroy it after a few trips.
Thanks in advance.
I’ve always checked my pack and the only time it was ever a problem (actually not my pack) was when my wife’s pack didn’t make our flight from JFK to Paris. We were delayed getting into JFK, missed our original JFK-CDG flight, and the flight we ended up on didn’t leave much time for our bags to get transferred. I can see the advantages of carrying on – not having checked luggage would’ve made this delay almost a non-issue and you don’t have to wait at baggage claim on arrival. However, I’m not an ultra-light packer and will most likely always be checking my pack. I still prefer a backpack to a suitcase for ease of carrying the pack, etc.
Do you know how big your pack is?
I’ve traveled with packs ranging from 55 to 90 (yikes!) liters.
I always check my bag too. Just make sure to wrap up the loose straps really well. A backpack is made to be thrown around, so you shouldn’t have a problem.
Ask the people at the checking desk for a trashbag (they will have one) to put your backpack in so none of the straps get caught on anything.
I’ve thought about only using a carry-on, but then you aren’t able to take any items with you that are banned in carry-ons. If you can live without a pocket knife, nail clippers, larger size liquids, etc. than it may be an option.
I try to always do carry-on. I have only been made to check my pack once, coming home, when BA told me it was too “heavy” to carry on. I don’t care so much about coming home, but going out, I really like to have it with me.
Once, years ago, United did misplace my baggage on a domestic flight—it just really puts a damper on a trip.
Yes, I had to give up the pocket knife etc but at least I have my bag.
I always check my bags. So I can bring my pocket knife and stuff that is not allowed in the carry on bag. Also I like to walk around in the airports, while waiting for the next flight and then I am really glad when I don’t have to carry all my stuff around. Of course in the end you have to wait at the baggage claim, but it is still more convenient for me.