Your
choice will evolve as you consider what you need to put in it, but consider:
- Size: The largest that
airlines will allow as a carry-on is a good starting point. Consider a
bigger bag if you need to carry extra items such as winter clothes, gifts,
a computer, or a fancy camera. Go for a smaller one if you want to carry
the bag long distances.
- Weight: Some airlines weigh
carry-on bags before you board, so try to make sure that most of the
weight comes from what's inside, and not from the bag itself. Avoid the
need for expensive extra-light materials (such as the ridiculously priced
titanium luggage) by choosing a simple tough, floppy nylon bag. Avoid
heavy and bulky extending handles and wheels and opt instead for a bag
with a strap, or, preferably, much more comfortable and unrestrictive, one
with backpack-type straps.
- Big, easy to carry, durable
and modestly priced bags are especially important to soldiers. Try a
"giant duffle [sic] backpack" from a "tactical" store
for checked baggage (the cylindrical girth and somewhat bigger length
maximizes permitted volume, and the stowable backpack straps preserve
mobility); or a maximum-carryon-sized boxy-shaped backpack. The color
selection may be limited, but black is generally available and may
helpfully avoid a military appearance in travel out of of one's own
country.
- Storage: Multiple pockets
help keep things organized. Pockets accessible from the outside provide
convenient access to travel paraphernalia such as an inflatable neck
pillow or other sleeping aids and snacks, without unpacking or rummaging
through everything else.
- Extra space: Your choice of
bag may evolve with your choices for its contents. It should have just a
little room for extras, not so much that the carefully packed contents
shift around in transit.
- A nylon or light synthetic
canvas shoulder bag that folds into a little pouch is a great backup to
have on hand in case you decide or happen to accumulate souvenirs. If you
have at least some self-control, size it to avoid an airline bag fee by
being, say, a modestly sized "personal item" to complement your
carryon. (The previous personal item like a purse or laptop bag could go
in it.)
- If you must have two bags,
try a relatively light rolling duffel and a carry-on sized backpack to
maximize mobility and weight 'off' your back. An airplane "personal
item" such as a purse or laptop bag, or even the backpack, can ride
on the roller's handle.