The Luggage Tips Rick Steves Swears By For International Travel
By Jen Mallia
VACATIONS
Carry-On
Rick Steves only brings one carry-on bag and a daypack, no matter how long his trip is. That way, he doesn't have to wait for the luggage carousel or risk it being lost.
Steves suggests bringing a backpack rather than wheeled luggage for train travel or in case there are many stairs at your destination. Backpacks also leave your hands free.
You should go for the best quality suitcase you can, but as Steves says, "If your bag costs more than $250, you're probably paying more for a brand name than quality."
Rick advises looking for sturdy stitching, ample pockets, and good handles and zippers. If you are going the backpack route, make sure the straps have good padding.