Why I love to travel with just a backpack

Aisha
13/04/2023

If you’re wondering whether a backpack is better than a suitcase then stick around because I’m going to tell you exactly why it is. Note that I’ve travelled with both a backpack and a suitcase and both are great. However, I’ve grown fond of having everything on my back – so let me tell you exactly why I love to travel with just a backpack.

1 You don't have to check your bag

I personally don’t want to spend extra time at an airport, especially after a long flight. This is why having only a carry-on bag is handy – you’ll be checked in quicker and out before everyone else! Note that airlines have different rules when it comes to size of carry-ons, so I’ve compared size guides and found that the following dimensions will keep you safe on many, if not all, airlines.

Carry-on bag dimensions
21.5” x 15.3” x 8.8”
54.6cm x 38.8cm x 22.3cm

2 Save money when travelling

If you’ve ever booked a flight then you know that standard or basic prices will get you the ticket and that’s pretty much it. The next levels of tickets are for refundable tickets, changes, and additional luggage, aka checked bags. Also, there are trains and buses that charge extra for additional baggage as well. That being said, you’re looking at saving hundreds of dollars to travel with just a backpack!

Travel tip: tightly roll your clothes for more space.

3 Save time

Like I said earlier, you’ll be out of the airport quicker if it’s just you and your carry-on. The other major time saver here is the fact that you have less clothes, items, and everything because of the lack of storage. But in my eyes it’s a total plus. At first it was hard trying to narrow down “essentials” but once you get to that minimalist packing life, it just makes life so much easier. You’ll save time packing, you’ll save time travelling, and in the end, you’ll have more time to enjoy your trip.

Travel tip: always pack a small laundry bag.

4 There will be less to carry

Having to lug around suitcases and heavy backpacks is not enjoyable on vacation. And depending on where you go, you might end up having to walk on cobblestones or rough terrain, or walk long distances. In those cases, it’s much more convenient for you, your back, and your entire body if you have less. Honestly, after lugging my stuff through 20 countries and countless of flights, trains, and buses, carrying less is exactly why I travel with just a backpack.

Travel tip: get a lock that will fit the zipper.

5 And less worry

Let’s say an airline has lost your luggage, or someone stole it when you weren’t paying attention. Chances are that you won’t get it back if it’s stolen, and you may not even get it all back from an airline. Those are the chances you take when you have too many cases and bags. Of course lost and stolen items can happen when you have carry-ons, but with less to look after and keep close, the worry is definitely minimized.

Travel tip: take a picture of your bag just in case.

6 Say hello to minimalism

The more stuff, the more clutter, the more chaos. Once you get to the point of only having a few necessities, everything is more clear, literally. Also, everything is more manageable and you’re once again saving more time and money (even on souvenirs!). Not only is minimalism beneficial for travel but also for in your daily life too. If you need a bit of help packing light then check out my minimalist packing guide.

Travel tip: a bag with multiple compartments will make finding items easier.

7 It's a conversation starter

Seriously, so many conversations are started when you just have a backpack with you. Someone is always wondering if that’s all you have, and usually the conversation ends up going on to packing items, and then friendship. Okay maybe not that quickly, but you get the point. It’s a great way to start up a conversation, and you might inspire others to do the same.

Did you know? Travelling with less luggage helps lower your carbon emissions.

8 You'll be a true backpacker

Yes, you’ll be able to say you backpacked around whatever destination you visited and that’s pretty cool in itself. Though, it is usually referred to outdoor, extended journeys. However, many now consider it as having only a backpack in any destination. But let’s not get into specifics here and just say that you’ll have your very own backpacking adventure.

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