Most useful piece of luggage....
 

In purchasing really inexpensive plane tickets I've gotten myself and my boyfrind into a series of layovers, plane changes and train rides. Is there any particular style of bag that is large enough to live from for 3 days, can be picked up and run with, doesn't shout "American Tourist", and meets the carry-on requirements of airlines and trains in Europe and the U.S. ? I know it's a tall order... maybe people could just tout the qualities of their favorite bag...

backpack backpack backpack

Three days? A large tote.

I bought a small upright wheeled carry-on bag a couple of years ago in Macy's for $20, perfect for all the stuff I don't want to check. I really don't put too much in it so it has room for bringing home our booty. I have loaned it out, too, and it is holding up very well.

I would suggest a garment bag.

When buying one, do not choose one that folds and is closed by a zipper. Buy one that is closed by a zipper, then folded and then "clicked" together. Thus, you can unfold it during travels easily without displaying its contents and have it hung up in a locker on a plane. They usually do also fit into the overhead compartment, but may get a little cramped.
I have one by German manufacturer BREE that is made from very durable nylon otherwise used in bulletproof vests. TUMI also makes these, but Samsonite and DelSey have some too, although the latter often have these zipper mechanisms that make them look like bags, but which I find unpractical, as you cannot that easily open them to have them hung up. Sorry for that complicated sentence :-)!

Hi ann,

For 3 days I could live out of my briefcase.

Since you are each allowed one carryon and a purse or briefcase, you have more than enough luggage allowance for 3 days.

One rolling 19" suitcase each that weigh less than 13 lbs. meets airline restrictions. Neat, tidy, easy to manage in all situations you mentioned.

I just returned from a trip and watched *all* kinds of struggling... folks with too much stuff, small but hard to manage (garment bags are too floppy, backpacks you keep knocking into the people behind you). Don't worry about shouting American Tourist as most people in airports or on trains are in fact touring to some place!

I have a very expensive Hartmann carryon that I never use. Instead, I use a great carryon that I purchased at COSTCO under their KIRKLAND brand. Many pockets and great storage in a small space. Much more practical than the Hartmann.

Another tip: Travel underwear and travel socks. Two pair of each will keep you in Europe for weeks. They are great! You wash them and they dry overnight. Very comfortable and long lasting. A little expensive to buy, but worth the price!

One small rolling suitcase with a front pocket for a suit jacket. Every company makes one that complies with the carry size limit.

Backpacks are great, but do you really want to carry it thru several airports?