Kelli and I decided on backpacks for our trip to Italy this spring. Our requirements were very simple. It must fit in an overhead bin so we don't have to check it, and it had to be big enough to hold two weeks worth of clothes + gear. Now you might be thinking how are we going to get two weeks worth of clothes in those packs? The key is in the packing. We've learned that you don't need 14 of everything. Things can and have to be worn more than once. Lighter weight quick drying clothing is key so you can wash them in you hotel room and hang them to dry. Some people might bring 3 pair of pants and wear them for two weeks without washing them. It all depends on how comfortable you are in your own filth. The only people who know you are wearing the same clothes from yesterday are you and the people you are traveling with. By the way, they will be wearing clothes from yesterday also. The goal is to have roughly 3 pair of pants, 5 shirts, 5 pair of socks, 5 underwear, belt, light jacket/rain jacket, toiletries, wallet, hat sunglasses, and passport. Some people bring clothes along that are on their last leg and throw them away as they go. It's a good way to leave more room in your bag for souvenirs to take home. The other thing to remember is just because you are in a foreign country doesn't mean they don't sell clothes. Clothes can be a souvenir too.
