Embarking on a European adventure by train is an incredible way to see the continent, offering scenic views and easy access to countless cities and towns. However, navigating European train stations and the trains themselves can present unexpected challenges, especially when it comes to luggage. After a recent 14-day train trip through Europe, traveling with a 22-inch roller carry-on and a 24L backpack, the biggest lesson learned was about the crucial role your luggage choice plays. If you’re planning a similar journey, understanding the realities of European train travel is key to selecting the Best Luggage For European Travel.
One of the most significant surprises for many travelers is the physicality required when moving luggage on European trains. Don’t underestimate the steep and narrow steps on many trains. Even with a seemingly manageable 22-inch carry-on, these steps can become a major obstacle. As someone of shorter stature, even I found it challenging. I witnessed numerous travelers, particularly petite individuals and seniors, struggling immensely with roller bags on train steps. Lifting a roller bag onto a train often requires both hands, a maneuver that can be awkward and tiring, especially after multiple train changes. My usual method involves ascending the steps first, then turning around to have my husband hand up the bag.
Alt text: Traveler struggling to lift wheeled suitcase up steep train steps on European train, highlighting difficulty of roller bags for European train travel.
Beyond the trains themselves, European train stations often present their own set of logistical hurdles. While some stations offer escalators, our experience showed that a significant portion, around 50% this past summer, were out of service, ironically often the escalators going upwards. Elevators might be available, but relying on them, especially during tight platform transfers, is risky. What started as effortlessly carrying my 22-inch roller bag with one hand at the beginning of the trip quickly became a two-handed, strenuous affair as fatigue set in mid-journey.
This leads to a crucial point when considering the best luggage for European travel: rethink the weekender bag and strongly consider a backpack. While weekender roller bags seem convenient when gliding through airports or flat surfaces, their limitations become glaringly obvious when faced with stairs and public transportation. Suddenly, your hands are completely occupied, lifting and maneuvering the bag, which raises security concerns. Train and metro stations are environments where keeping your hands on your luggage is paramount. Inevitably, you’ll find yourself setting one bag down to wrestle the other onto a train or through a doorway.
Alt text: Traveler easily navigating train station stairs with a travel backpack, showcasing the convenience of backpack for European train travel.
Backpacks, while not entirely foolproof regarding security behind you, offer a significant advantage: they free up your hands. For navigating trams and buses, where you often need to press buttons to enter or exit and increasingly tap a credit card or phone for payment, having a free hand is invaluable. In my opinion, maintaining at least one free hand at all times while traveling through European train systems is highly advisable for both convenience and security.
Now, let’s address the idea of a larger backpack, like a 42L Cotapaxi, often chosen for its increased carry-on capacity as a precaution against lost luggage. While the peace of mind is understandable, consider the weight. A 4.2lb backpack, especially one you’ll be carrying throughout an extensive 81-day European trip, can become a significant burden. My own backpack, a 24L pack with minimal organization (just a laptop sleeve), weighs a mere 1lb 5oz. It has proven sufficient to carry essentials like a raincoat, sweater, extra undergarments, tech accessories, medications, snacks, and important documents – enough for a couple of days in a pinch.
Overpacking “just in case” adds unnecessary weight and strain. The likelihood of your luggage being significantly delayed, let alone lost for days, is statistically low, especially with carry-on focused travel. While online forums are full of “worst-case scenario” advice, not all of it is practical for every situation. Prioritize your comfort and mobility. Unless your trip involves immediate attendance at a formal event or a cruise with strict luggage deadlines, the minor inconvenience of a potential luggage delay is unlikely to outweigh the daily discomfort of lugging a heavy pack. European train travel is often physically demanding; scrutinize every ounce you pack and opt for lighter, more manageable luggage solutions. Choosing the best luggage for European travel means prioritizing practicality and ease of movement, and for train travel, the backpack overwhelmingly wins.
