Before I went travelling around Thailand, I did extensive research into whether a backpack would be more suitable than a suitcase and vice versa. One of the main things that stuck in my head after my research was “you’re not a proper traveller if you don’t take a backpack” so I began packing a backpack.
It turned out that after packing what seemed like my whole wardrobe into the backpack – not necessary btw – I couldn’t even stand up with it on, so I opted for the suitcase instead.
After arriving in Thailand and meeting the group I would be travelling with, it was about a 40-60% split in favour of the suitcase.
So, which is better?
Sorry to disappoint but there isn’t a clear answer, it definitely is based on personal preference. I will be giving you a few pros and cons for each, based on my experience from that trip so you can make your own decision.
Suitcase
– this does still make you a real traveller!
Pros
- One of the main reasons why I chose a suitcase was the fact that the weight was not all on my back. Pulling the suitcase on wheels felt much easier. This is partly true – the suitcase does take the weight off your back and shoulders that would be felt with a backpack, but that does not mean that it is not still heavy. Whether you take a backpack or a suitcase, it will still be heavy, but it is just about whether you want that weight on your back or to pull it.
- Another thing I found with the suitcase is it generally fit more into it. This can also be a pro and a con – the more stuff equals more weight! It does mean though that you can buy more souvenirs to fit in if you wish. For me, the extra space was necessary so that’s why I chose to take a suitcase in the end.
Cons
- The main difference I found between the suitcase and the backpack is that the suitcase was MUCH harder to lug on and off transport and through busy areas. My travelling friends who had backpacks found it much easier to navigate the busy station of Bangkok and onto the train, whilst myself and others with the suitcases were trailing behind. Don’t even mention the three steps from the platform onto the train! Let’s just say we needed train conductors to help us lift them onto the train – not very practical.
- The suitcases are also much bulkier than the backpack so take up more space on trains and in hotel/hostel rooms. This may not be an issue depending on your travel plans but certainly one to think about.
- Another thing to mention is the wear and tear. Lugging suitcases about from country to country is tiring and difficult. Four of my travel friends, myself included, ended up travelling home with suitcases with two or more wheels missing after they flew off at several points during our trip. This undoubtedly made everything a lot more difficult! This may not happen to you, but we didn’t consider it happening to us either and after I had lost my second wheel, I wished I had considered the backpack again.
Backpack
Pros
- As previously mentioned, the backpack is much easier so moving on and off transport and busy places. If you think your travel plans will include a lot of this, I recommend using a backpack.
Cons
- The main con that was mentioned about the backpack was the fact that you couldn’t see all your belongings laid out in the same way you can in a suitcase. This is obviously not the end of the world, but it seemed that those with backpacks ended up completely unpacking the bag every day to find what they needed. If you’re a packing expert or have a packing organisational system, this may not be an issue for you but again it is one to think about if you are the type of person who will be taking lots of outfit options.
It is worth testing both options, but it definitely depends on yourself and the type of trip you are doing.
I hope this helps!
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