I would not take a rucksack. I think you will be a lot happier with a pack with some “structure” to it. You do not need a climber’s backpack with an exterior frame, but one with enough internal frame/structure to appropriately distribute the load is a lot more comfortable than a rucksack or bookbag. Try walking around the store with 10 to 15 lbs. of weight in it before you buy.

I’d look for a traveler’s backpack that zips completely open and has several pockets. That’s easier to organize and use than a top loader. Hydration bladders and all the straps, etc. to attach sleeping bag, tent, hikers and hiking poles that come on a hiking/camping backpack aren’t particularly useful for a tourist.

If you pack properly, an internal frame isn’t 100% necessary — it really depends on how much hiking you plan to do with it. If you’re hiking Cinque Terre, for example, then you’d want something more sturdy. However, I tend to think most visitors head straight for the hostel, drop off stuff, then head out.

thank you so much and yes i am the kind of person that would just drop off my stuff and head out and just hike around with either a day pack or no pack. Is there anything frame-less that you could recommend?

I really like my backpack. It’s not framed but still sturdy and I love it. It’s an ebags Weekender etech convertible (you can zip up the backpack straps and it looks like a soft-sided luggage bag, for when airline people get twitchy about backpacks as carry-ons). I wouldn’t recommend putting over 20 lbs in it, but 15-20 is fine. I packed it up the other day with 15 pounds and it felt great. I’m not super in shape and that weight suits me fine. 22 was pushing it and 28 just made my back hurt (I had alot of souvenirs… oops).

I’d recommend the BRX Excursion daypack. It’s perfect for hikes and day trips around town and can carry a lot of sundry items like your sunglasses, maps, a bottle of water, some snacks, and even one jacket.