Suitcase or Backpack for Summer Camp: Which Is Your Best Bet?
Benefits of Suitcases
Better organisation
Most suitcases have separate compartments and provide space for packing cubes so you can organise your belongings efficiently. This means you'll have easier access to your items without unpacking everything, making it simpler to maintain order throughout your trip.
Protect fragile items better with rigid structure
If you're bringing tech like laptops, other fragile items, or toiletries to camp with you, they will be protected in a hard shell suitcase. The sturdy exterior creates a barrier for when you’re on the move!
Easier to transport heavier loads with wheels
The wheels allow you to move efficiently from A to B, even when carrying a heavy load.
More packing room
Suitcases offer ample storage, making them ideal for longer trips when you need to pack more like when you’re working at summer camp in Canada for 2 months.
Less physical strain on your shoulders and back
Wheels significantly reduce physical strain during long travel days by eliminating the need to carry a heavy load on your back. This prevents muscle fatigue and any potential injuries or strains.
Easier to manoeuvre on smooth surfaces
Suitcases manoeuvre smoothly through airports, hotels, and train stations, allowing for easier navigation.
Considerations for Suitcases
Difficult to navigate stairs, cobblestones, and rough terrain
Suitcases can be a big hassle when it comes to uneven terrains and going up stairs.
Take up more storage space when not in use
They’re not as easy to store away as a back pack and don’t fit into tight spaces.
Can be awkward in crowded spaces like public transportation
Maneuvering a suitcase in packed areas or public transport can be challenging and inconvenient.
Potential fees
Airlines often charge for suitcases that exceed baggage restrictions, resulting in baggage fees.
Security
Being detached from your body, they are more easily targeted and accessed by thieves compared to a backpack.
Where will your summer take you?
Benefits of backpacks
Hands-Free
One of the key benefits of a backpack is that it keeps your hands free, allowing for greater mobility and easier multitasking when you're travelling.
Take up less storage space when not in use
Many backpacks can fold or roll up when not in use making them easier to fit into tight storage spaces, under hostel beds or in the bunk at summer camp.
Easier to navigate crowded areas
Trying to navigate crowded areas with suitcase can be so much hassle but with a backpack, it is so much more convenient and allows you to move more freely in tight spaces.
Budget-friendly
Backpacks are typically allowed as carry-on by most airlines, which can help you save on baggage fees which is great especially if you’re budgeting!
Quick Access
Unlike suitcases, backpacks allow you to easily reach your belongings without setting down your bag. Multiple pockets and compartments let you grab essential items like water bottles, phones, or travel documents while on the move.
Considerations for backpacks
Can cause back strain with heavy loads
The weight of your backpack rests entirely on your body which can contribute to exhaustion during long travel days and potential strains.
Limited capacity
Backpacks aren’t ideal for longer trips especially if you need to pack bulky items due to limited capacity. But if you’re someone who can pack light then it’s perfect for you!
Less organisation
Backpacks are harder to organise due to being vertically stored, which often means items get stacked on top of each other. This leads to potential creased clothing and difficulty finding what you need without unpacking everything!
Less protection for fragile items
Provides less protection for delicate items compared to hard shell suitcases.
Security
When wearing your backpack, zips can be easily opened without detection, especially when it's on your back where you can't see what's happening. This vulnerability could make you a potential target for pickpockets in crowded areas or on public transport. So if you're going with a backpack ensure to stay alert!
And there you have it, the choice between a suitcase and a backpack ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences. There is no right or wrong answer! But thinking of what your post-camp plans are might be the deciding factor in what you should bring to camp this summer!
But whether you opt for a suitcase or a backpack, you might find yourself in situations during the summer where you want to explore a new place without being weighed down by your luggage. That's where a service like Bounce can be a real lifesaver. As the world's largest luggage storage network, Bounce offers over 16,000 secure locations across more than 4,000 cities in 100+ countries. If you arrive early before your accommodation is ready or have a few extra hours before your train – Bounce allows you to securely store your bags and make the most of your time exploring. Keep them in mind for any post-camp adventures or even unexpected travel days! You can even get 10% off your first booking using the code 'CAMPCANADA10'.
