It all depends on the individual. However, you can buy top loader backpacks which you can also load from the bottom which can be very helpful. Okay, this is a really important thing to do before you go travelling. The majority of the weight in the backpack should be carried on the hips, and when you do this you realise how much easier it is than carrying it on your shoulders. There are several different adjustment straps as well on better quality backpacks which allow you to get the best fit possible. It is the one piece of advice that i really should have listened as i would much prefer to have the extra space in my backpack than the daypack. This is one of those things that is unlikely to happen to you, but for your own safety you should always check your backpack for drugs or other illegal items which someone else may have placed in there. This is especially advisable before air travel. And being quite a small girl, a reasonable-size backpack for me can fit as a carry-on on most airplanes. And walking out of the airport right away without waiting for my luggage really is worth the effort. Benefits of these bags over backpacks are they can be opened up easily once in accom and no mysteries or digging around at bottom of backpack. Also, they look good. Also have daypack to carry on plane. Also, depending on where you are going, your backpack is safer on your back than a suitcase which can be easily grabbed from you. If you need to stop to look at a map then you need to stop and let go of your cases. Getting on local transport with just opne backpack which is on your back is easier too than carrying two small suitcases too in my opinion. You are right that you can get backpacks that have wheels on, i forgot about them. For me, traditional style backpacks are the way forward when travelling for a period of time. Sydney extra long weekend. Some special forces action on the harbour. Zumbo deliciousness.