How to choose between a suitcase and a backpack

There’s a moment every traveller knows well, that split second when you lock eyes with another tourist and think, “Yep, they’ve made the better choice.” I’ve been on both sides of that look and it launches the age (ish) old question, suitcase or backpack? So let’s talk about it.

It’s not a simple answer when it comes to choosing a suitcase or backpack for travel. Especially if you’re taking a longer trip to multiple countries. There have been times when I’ve seen people dragging their suitcases along beaches in Thailand and I thanked my lucky stars I had a backpack. But then there were also times getting off the bus in Australia, watching all the smug travellers wheeling away with their suitcase while I stood there sweating with 17kg on my back.

And of course, these moments are interchangeable. It doesn’t matter where you go, Europe, Asia or anywhere else, you’ll probably see that the grass is greener on the other side (or the luggage is easier to carry).

It’s all about choosing what’s right for you and your trip. So let’s break down the pros and cons of suitcase vs. backpack travel, especially for solo adventurers.

Why luggage choice matters so much

When you travel solo, your luggage is more than just a bag; it’s your constant companion. The decision between backpack vs. suitcase for solo travel impacts:

How easily you can move through airports, train stations or ferry docks.
Whether you can handle stairs, cobblestones or dirt roads without stress.
Your comfort, posture and even confidence while exploring.

There’s no one to help you lift your suitcase into an overhead rack or carry your backpack up a hill. That’s why the best luggage for solo travel is the one that matches your destinations, travel style and body’s limits.

Team suitcase

A suitcase can be a lifesaver, especially for city travel or trips where you need to keep things neat. I have used a suitcase of course for holidays; however, other than that, I have always stuck to some kind of backpack on my travels. Here’s why many solo travellers swear by them:

Pros of a suitcase:

Neat and organised: Clothes stay folded and you can easily access everything. This is perfect for business travel or urban breaks.
Better protection: A hard-shell suitcase shields fragile souvenirs, cameras and electronics.
Less physical strain: Rolling is easier on your back and shoulders.
Ideal for city travel: Works well in destinations like Paris, Tokyo, or New York where smooth pavements are the norm.

Cons of a suitcase:

Terrain troubles: Cobblestones in Europe, sand in Thailand or rural dirt roads can quite literally stop you in your tracks.
Awkward in small spaces: Hostels, budget buses, and tiny hotel rooms aren’t suitcase-friendly.
Not great for multi-stop travel: Constant lifting and storing can be a hassle.

When to choose a suitcase for solo travel:
If your trip is mostly urban, with elevators, smooth streets, and taxis or if you’re carrying work gear, a suitcase is often the best choice. There is one time in particular for me when having a suitcase seemed like a plus and that was when I travelled the East Coast in Australia. On this trip, there was never really a time when I felt smug for having a backpack. In fact, it was the opposite, especially walking from the bus stop to our hostel. Although, for some reason, the Greyhound drivers would always have an issue with hard suitcases, so there’s that. Japan and South Korea also seemed super suitcase-friendly.

Team backpack

A travel backpack screams freedom and flexibility, which is why it’s often the go-to for backpacking in Asia, South America or exploring rural destinations. I also just love carrying a backpack; it makes me feel like I am going on an adventure. The backpack I started off with was the Mountain Warehouse Unisex Traveller 60 + 20L Rucksack Durable Sports Backpack in purple. This is a very popular option and I can see why; it’s great.

Pros of a backpack:

Hands-free travel: Easier for catching buses, boarding ferries and handling tickets.
Versatile terrain: From cobblestone streets to jungle trails, a backpack handles it all.
Compact and flexible: Easier to stash in lockers or under hostel bunks.
Perfect for multi-stop itineraries: No wheels to get stuck and no dragging through crowds.

Cons of a backpack:

Heavy load: Carrying 15–20kg gets tiring fast, especially in hot climates.
Less organisation: Even with packing cubes, it’s easy to lose track of items.
Not ideal for luxury trips: Arriving at a 5-star hotel with a massive hiking pack can feel out of place.

When to choose a backpack for solo travel:
If you’re visiting multiple countries in Southeast Asia, taking overnight buses, or travelling light for weeks at a time, a backpack will keep you moving without frustration. I find that having a backpack in a suitcase-friendly destination is kinda annoying, but having to drag a suitcase through the beach is an absolute pain in the hole.

The hybrid option

If you’re stuck between a suitcase or a backpack for long-term travel, consider hybrids:

Wheeled backpacks: Roll in the airport, carry on the stairs.
Convertible duffels: Great for weekend getaways or trips with mixed terrain.
Carry-on suitcase + daypack: Ideal for budget airlines and quick city hops.

I went from a travel backpack to a wheeled one and it’s a great option. I have now had two hybrid wheeled backpacks; the thinner zips on my first one failed me. With both my backpacks, I mostly used the wheels. Although the backpack part of the bag really did save me in the Philippines when I had to walk along a sandy beach to get to my hostel.

How to choose

Ask yourself these questions before booking your trip:

Where am I going?
- Urban and well-paved? Suitcase.
- Rural, remote or island hopping? Backpack.
How long is my trip?
- Weekend break? Either works.
- Six-month adventure? Comfort matters.
How much am I carrying?
- Minimalist? Backpack.
- Extra gear or multiple outfits? Suitcase.
What’s my physical capacity?
- If carrying 17kg sounds impossible, stick with wheels.
Will I move around a lot?
- One or two locations? Suitcase.
- Constantly changing cities? Backpack.

Tips for choosing the right suitcase or backpack

Once you’ve decided whether you’re team suitcase or team backpack, the next step is finding the one your travel partner-in-crime will stick with you through airports, buses and questionable ferry rides. Here’s what to look for:

1. Quality of material

Your luggage will take a beating, whether it’s being thrown into a bus storage compartment in Vietnam or bumped down a hotel staircase in Rome. Look for:

Backpacks: Durable, water-resistant fabric (ripstop nylon or polyester) that can handle rain showers and rough handling.
Suitcases: Tough polycarbonate or ABS shells for protection, or high-denier ballistic nylon for soft-sided cases.

2. Strength of zips

Zips are often the first thing to fail, so don’t overlook them.

Thicker zips are more reliable.
Test them before you buy: they should glide smoothly without snagging.
Double zips are great for using a small luggage lock.

3. Access

Being able to reach your things quickly can make a huge difference while traveling. Not all bags are created equal, so keep these points in mind:

Look for a bag that fully opens, not just at the top.
Top-only openings can be frustrating; you may need to remove everything just to reach one item.
Backpacks: Choose one that opens all the way around for easy access.
Suitcases: Full clamshell openings make packing and unpacking faster and stress-free.

4. Colour & visibility

My last bag was navy, and I regretted it every single time I stood at the luggage carousel squinting at a sea of identical navy bags. My previous ones were purple and red, so much easier to spot.

Choose a bold or unique colour or use a bright luggage strap/cover.
If you like neutral colours, add a distinctive tag, ribbon or sticker for visibility.

5. Weight of the bag itself

That ultralight feeling when you first pick up an empty bag? Gold. Remember: airlines have weight limits, and every kilo your bag weighs is a kilo you can’t use for your stuff.

A lightweight suitcase or backpack makes a huge difference, especially for long-term travel.

6. Comfort & fit (for backpacks)

If you’re carrying it, it needs to fit your body.

Adjustable straps, padded hip belts, and ventilated back panels are worth every penny.
Try it on fully loaded before your trip to make sure it’s comfortable.

7. Manoeuvrability (for suitcases)

If you’re rolling it, test how it moves.

Four spinner wheels are great for smooth floors; two-wheel designs can be sturdier for rougher surfaces.
The handle should extend smoothly and feel solid.

My verdict as a solo traveller

I am a backpack girly. The regret of having a suitcase is usually much bigger than having a backpack. When I spent months backpacking Asia, my backpack was a lifesaver. I could hop from boats in Laos to night markets in Vietnam without worrying about suitcase wheels getting stuck. That being said, the last two backpacks I have had have had wheels. So if you’re stuck, my best piece of advice is to get a backpack with wheels, and there are so many great ones on the market.

For my next trip, the plan is to downsize. And I have my eye on a 40L backpack. I have my eye on the Travel Backpack 40 L – Travel 500 ORGANIZER. It’s small enough that I am hoping the weight will be bearable, so I am less envious of bags with wheels. But only time will tell.

There’s no universal winner in the suitcase vs backpack travel debate. The best choice for solo travel depends on your itinerary, your style and how you want to move through the world. The right luggage won’t make your trip perfect, but it will make your travel days easier, and that can mean more energy for the moments that really matter.

So, are you team suitcase or team backpack?