I'm about to leave on a six-month adventure around SE Asia. I'd like to hear anyone's comments on using the new Eagle Creek (or others) backpacks with wheels vs just a good-quality pack. My back isn't the strongest, and I love the idea of being able to roll it around when possible, and putting on my back when necessary. How often am I really going to have to carry it, and isn't it worth getting the one with wheels for the majority of instances? I'd appreciate your comments.
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I have an Eagle Creek which I really enjoy - the World
Journey. Yeah, the wheels may sound great for moving
around, but you are travelling and no-one takes those sorts
of bags to SE Asia with them for 6 months if you are
planning to be on the move! The streets are crowded and it
isn't as easy to pull the bag around as you might think.
Plus, the additional weight and space it takes up...for
when you have to carry it...I don't think it is worthwhile
(maybe for Europe but not Asia).
i just got an eagle creek switchback plus, with wheels and
backpack straps, and i really like it. i will be moving to
japan to work for one to two years and am planning on taking
numerous shorter trips rather than total travel for six
months solid, and i suspect this pack will do well for me.
however, if i ever do the six month backpacking thing, i'll
probably get one of the eagle creek non-wheel packs (like the
world journey mentioned above). the switchback is nice, but
i don't think i could fit in it all the stuff i'd want to
take on a six-month trip. altho i did just use it for a
weeklong camping trip in north carolina, where the afternoon
temp was like 80F, with 30F or lower at night, and i had just
about everything i needed, including rain gear, packed.
that's not bad.
Hi, I actually work at a place that sells all types of Eagle
Creek gear. For the type of trip you are taking, I would
reccommend getting a standard type pack (such as the EC
continental or world journey.) The biggest problem with the
current design on the Eagle Creek wheeled backpacks is that
there is no waist belt. You can check out specific deatils
of all the Eagle Creek bags at:
http://www.letravelstore.com/
I haven't used the new Eagle Creek bags with the wheels but
I have one which is a convertible suitcase/backpack. It has
a detachable daypack as well. Purchased it for a month long
romp through England and France. Absolutely LOVED it.
Longer treks I could put it on my back comfortably (the
waistband is a must!). The regular suitcase style made it
easier moving it around in taxis, carry-on for trains and
planes, hotels. All the extra straps are tucked neatly away
and don't get caught on things, however you can pull them
out in a couple of seconds.
The detachable daypack is invaluable for quick side trips.
Put the bag in the locker and take your daypack essentials
with you on your short adventure. Just think ahead when you
pack.
Have a great time.