Backpacks/daypacks

[Anna Low]

I have read in many threads about the various backpacks/daypacks that people take to Europe for daily use and I am so curious about what goes in them. When I go, I take nothing more than a small purse out for the day, which includes the following:

lipstick/powder
digital camera
cell phone
passport
room key
credit cards
a little cash
sunglasses
maybe a small map (depending on where I am going)

Should I be bringing more stuff with me???? Am I doing something wrong?

[Hello Kitty]

Whenever we'd use a day pack it was usually b/c we were planning on buying something or we were doing our own food. But usually, I kept about the same stuff you did in a purse/bag with a zippered top that I could wear across my body.

IMO, I'd leave your passport locked in your hotel safe. It's much safer there than it is on your person if you get pick-pocketed or mugged. And it's not meant to be alarmist, just realistic.

[Rosebud]

In cities in Europe I carry generally the same things as you in a purse. Although I always leave my Passport in the hotel safe and I do carry a guidebook so I can read detailed information about the sights I'm seeing.

However, on this trip we'll be in the Irish countryside and I was looking for something more comfortable (and waterproof) to carry than a purse while we're hiking and outdoors for long periods of time. I also wanted space for a water bottle and snack, since we won't always be close to restaurants. Also, something that could hold a light rain jacket.

STILL haven't decided on a day pack. Going to REI soon to look at them, because I think I really have to check out the size/style in person.

[Anna Low]

As far as the passport goes, I always carry it for the VAT refund paperwork. Jewelry and extra cash are always in the room safe, as well as a copy of the passport.

[Annette]

Pacsafe has bags that are anti-theft. You can also buy them at REI. DH bought a fanny pack and we were able to lock up the passports, money and camera in it.

http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php

[BethIrish]

I always carry a backpack because I like to have a bottle of water, a piece of fruit or granola bars and a light coat with me. Also, when I'm traveling in areas where a church or something might require something other than what I normally wear while out and about, I throw in a long skirt to pull over my shorts :)

[emmjay]

I usually bring a small black messenger-style bag, or else just a purse. I have used a backpack in the past but in Europe I prefer using something smaller and less "touristy" looking - I'm sure I still look like a tourist, but it's just a preference.

As for the passport, I don't normally stay in places that have safes. I don't like carrying it with me unless I have to, but I'm not sure where is the best place to put it. To be honest most of the time I leave it in my bigger bag in a smaller, locked area. It isn't obvious there and my entire bag would have to be stolen or destroyed in order for it to be taken. I also have digital copies of my passport emailed to myself in case it does get stolen so I always have a copy to bring to get a replacement.

[Amuse Bouche]

The other problem with a backpack is in the cities it's more likely to be pickpocketed. (I think Rosebud's fine for the Irish countryside -- we took a backpack when we drove around the Scottish countryside.) My experience with pickpockets in major European cities is that they try to operate by stealth, and if you're standing on a crowded subway with your worldly possessions on your back, it's much easier to slit the bottom. I like a purse that fits high under my arm. (Same goes for New York City, actually; it's not just Europe.)

As for what I carry with, usually the usual - camera, sunglasses, wallet, keys, passport (if I'm staying in a relatively unsecure location -- if I'm renting an apartment or staying in a high end hotel I'll leave it there), map, maybe guidebook, depending on where I am.

[lil_geek]

I like sling type packs. They are generally smaller then a backpack, and I can slip it under my arm when in crowds and hold it more like a purse. Messenger may be a better idea, but I find I get a sore neck/shoulder with them

Carry:
Water
lip stuff
wallet
camera (and my new camera is larger = bigger bag)
sweater/jacket/umbrella
book/map
whatever DH wants since he won't carry anything!