teadrinker

kja, what do you mean by "topping it"? Is there anything I should do at this point or have I screwed it up royally?

NewbE

Well, I'm not a backpack person except on long hikes. In cities, I like a crossbody bag: hands free, and I can pull it to the front of me to keep it safe in crowds. People here have strong opinions about backpacks, but it's really a personal preference. If you're not used to wearing one, are you sure you'd find it comfortable enough?

FWIW, I think your suitcase plan is good. Don't get anything bigger than 22", but do check it. With that size, you can carry it on if you choose on domestic flights, and even some overseas flights, and should be able to manage it in general.

kja

To top a thread, you simply enter a post. It moves the thread to the "top" of the list of threads. Some people enter "ttt" for "to the top" or "topping" or "anyone else?" People sometimes do that when a thread goes cold -- after a few days (but certainly not more often, as many people only check the board once a day).

teadrinker

NewbE, I really don't think I'd find a backpack very comfortable at all. I have tried some on - last summer - and was surprised to find that they just don't sit right on me! I don't know why.. they seem to hit the back of my head or something…. I really don't think I'm the back pack TYPE! SO… your cross body bag has me interested now. Can you tell me anything about what I should look for in a cross body bag? I think it'd be better for my neck problem.. less strain. What size or material? Anything specific I should be looking for?
kja… I get it now. If a thread has not had activity in awhile, you can enter "ttt" or "anyone else" and it becomes new again somehow. Maybe you mean it shows up in a side column on that particular forum, right?
So, what should I do, if anything, now about that old post of mine? Now that I know the protocol, I won't start new threads anymore. good to know.
thank you!

suze

<I've never been a back pack person, but I think I need to be one and get used to it.>

I hate backpacks! I would never travel with one (except maybe a small daypack/book bag type, for daytime use works OK around a city. But even then I prefer a tote bag or my normal purse from at home.

I think you need a simple 22-24" suitcase. Mine is "IT" brand that I got because it's very lightweight (24" is 4 lbs. empty).

For the trip you describe, I would use a 22" and I would check it on the plane. Then you don't have to mess around with the 1-qt/3 oz. size limits for liquids in a carryon, another benefit. Spinner wheels or not, as long as it handles easily. TJ Maxx is great for suitcases, just go there in person and see what seems right to you.

teadrinker

Ok, Suze, I'm going to look into your IT bag because I have not yet found a suitcase that's less than 6#.. so your IT bag, even thought it's 24", might be the best….
thank you!

yorkshire

Please note that for someone with neck/back problems, a cross-body bag is going to result in uneven weight. Of course, it depends on how much stuff you put in it, but even a water bottle and a book bother me. I am not talking about backpack as luggage, an entirely different issue, but for whatever you use when you go out for the day. There is no substitute for trying them both and seeing what works for you!

suze

<I am not talking about backpack as luggage, an entirely different issue, but for whatever you use when you go out for the day.>

That is also what I was trying to describe. Like the book bags kids use for school, work well for touring around during the day.

NewbE

< Can you tell me anything about what I should look for in a cross body bag?>
There are so many to choose from! Small, large, canvas, nylon, leather, etc. etc. etc. I look for something not too heavy when it's empty, that zips shut, and has some organizer pockets, especially one for my cel phone. The rest is entirely a matter of personal preference.

If you don't have a large selection near you, perhaps Zappos would be helpful. Anything you buy can be returned at no charge (free shipping both ways) for up to a year.