What is the ideal luggage equipment to take with you on a 2-3 month trip through europe, while lodging in hostels and one- or two-star hotels? Would a large backpack be ideal along with a smaller backpack for day walks to carry essential stuff around (camera, documents, cash), or would regular luggage be ok?

Hi

You may need to repost with a title like "What luggage to use - should I use a backpack?" On my first trip I used regular luggage, packed WAY too much stuff and paid the price. I now use a duffel bag on wheels ( with a pop up handle (Kodiak brand). It has 2 compartments plus a third for shoes. Has the advantage also that you can use it as a backpack but really only suitable for short stints eg. climbing stairs. If you plan on hiking or going on rough roads/paths it may not be suitable. For more info have a look at this site - http://www.artoftravel.com

I use a satchel bag for day walks. A small backpack "screams" tourist so for security reasons I try to blend in.

Good luck

Anything works fine, just don't pack too much. Luggage has no relation to the type of hotel you will stay in. That said, I would never recommend a "large" anything.

Use a medium backpack, a medium duffle bag with shoulder strap, or a 22" rolling suitcase. Plus one small daypack or tote for everyday use. Have a money belt to keep valuables (passport and money) secured and wear this under your clothes.

One helpful trick is don't think of your trip as 2-3 months when you are packing. Think of it as 1 week and plan to do laundry along the way 8-12 times total.

check out the website www.wherethehellismatt.com On his FAQ page or learn about me page he shows photos of what he packs and how...he's traveled the world so his packing style is probably as efficient as you'd get...I wouldn't use regular luggage.

Tara

This is the kind of trips I usually make (well, not that long, but the type of accomodation at least). I use a backpack, but which zips open like a duffel bag, so easier for packing and unpacking. I have a daypack which I can zip on the big backpack, and there came even a fanny pack included. Mine is from Eagle Creek and I'm very pleased with it.