Marilyn

cb2, I skimmed this loooong thread so forgive if I repeat. Apart from the obvious need to be able to handle your luggage yourself, i.e., carry it up and down stairs and lift it onto the train, there is am important size issue on trains. If you get wheeled luggage, just be sure it is narrow enough to wheel it down the aisle of the train! In other words, those wheeled garment bags that sit sideways on their wheels are the worst possible choice. You should be fine with a 22" wheelie, or even a bit larger. But if you are going to do a lot of train travel, several smaller bags are better than one large.

bellairegirl

cb2,

My family and I just returned from London on Saturday. Upon our return, the number one question I have been asked is whether we experienced any anti-Americanism. I have wholeheartedly answered NO. Everyone we met was very nice to us. We truly, honestly were treated well.

As to your question about luggage, we took wheeled luggage on the Gatwick Express to Victoria and from the Victoria tube station to Sloane Square tube station. No problems (except for navigating up and down stairs). We travelled fairly extensively on the tube, and on each trip there was someone on with luggage of some sort. you do not need to worry about not looking like a tourist. There are LOTS of tourists in London. You'll fit right in.

Have a great trip and enjoy yourself.

gomarciago

re: lugguage question. I've been going to Europe for years with just a carry on size. No waiting for lugguage carosel at airport and easiest on trains and tubes. If you chose to use a wheeled bag, the wheels must be sturdy to hold up to cobblestone and uneven pavement. Bags with in-line skate wheels work well- ck out Eaglecreek. I often use backpack that converts to rucksack. Rick steves sells one on his website for about $100 that is sized for shorter people. It worked great for me! Good support in the waist strap is important in these type bags.