While we all love train travel, let's talk about my other passion, luggage. Weird, I know, but I enjoy exploring what's out there. This week, I bought a new bag, and I want to share the steps I followed when choosing luggage.
If there is something you want me to cover, let me know!
Choosing the Right Bag for Your Travels (And Why Most People Get It Wrong)
I’ve been using the same SwissGear backpack for over ten years—through brewery runs, day trips, cross-country adventures, to different jobs, and many Amtrak trips.
It’s been dependable, but it’s finally starting to show its age, so I started looking for a replacement.
And I realized pretty quickly—I wasn’t just buying a bag. I was investing in my comfort for every future trip.
This isn’t just about backpacks. The same logic applies whether you’re selecting a personal item, a carry-on, or your main luggage for a longer trip.
Focus on Your Body, Not the Reviews
I’m 6’2” and around 215 pounds, which is more significant than people realize.
I’ve used backpacks that sat too high, suitcases with handles that were too short, and bags that scraped my heels when I walked.
If a bag doesn’t fit your frame or your stride, no amount of five-star reviews will fix that. You’ll notice it on every trip.
Be honest about your body works. I travel a little differently now as I get older. If you have a bad back, a backpack might not be the best option. If something seems wrong, it probably is.
The Goldfish Principle: Right-Size Your Bag
Here’s the honest truth: if your bag has space, you’ll fill it.
I discovered this during my first Amtrak trip.
A slightly oversized backpack fills with “just in case” items. A larger suitcase suddenly needs an extra pair of shoes. Like a goldfish growing to fill its tank, your packing expands to match your bag.
This matters even more on trains. You’re carrying your own luggage, sometimes through stations, up stairs, and into tight spaces. And if you’re in a sleeping car, space is limited.
If you fly, especially on discount airlines, be aware that if your bag is oversize, you could be charged a fee.
One bag won’t do everything.
A quick trip on the Hiawatha calls for something very different than a few nights on the Empire Builder. Don’t try to make one bag fit all situations—buy for what you actually need.
If you are new to travel, realizing this can help you budget and set better expectations.
The goal is simple: match the bag to what you actually carry and will be an investment in your comfort as a traveler.
Get Specific About What Your Bag Actually Does
Before I start shopping for luggage, I need to be clear on what I need. In this case:
Daily carry (church, brewery, day trips — and it doubles as a personal item when I fly). That is how I used my old bag for.
Organization (no black holes—I want to find my headphones and cables quickly)
Comfort (I’m wearing this regularly, so it can’t bother me)
Durability (I want this to last as long as my previous bag)
That clarity simplified everything.
Your priorities may vary—wheels, expandability, durability—but the main idea remains the same: the clearer you are, the simpler the decision becomes.
If you’re selecting a bag specifically for Amtrak, ask yourself:
Will this fit easily in an overhead shelf or in my room?
Can I get what I need during the trip?
Will it be easy to carry through stations and aisles?
How I Narrowed It Down
I began by consulting trusted reviewers (I like Chase Reeves (Youtube) at Matterful.co and YouTube for gear breakdowns), then used AI as a sounding board.
I outlined my needs, compared options, and evaluated tradeoffs. AI took all of that and helped me narrow things down.
Is this brand or model a better performer than another?
AI can look at reviews and pull the ones that apply to me.
It also gave me suggestions that I was not aware of.
The goal wasn’t to find the “best” bag—it was to find the one that made the most sense for how I travel.
I’d rather spend a little more on something that lasts than replace a cheaper bag every few years.
The Practical Reality
Many of the best bags aren’t available in stores.
If you can try one in person, do it. If not, ensure there’s a good return policy.
And remember—just because it's expensive doesn’t mean it’s better. Many designer bags look better than they are practical.
You don’t need the bag that others might say is “best” bag, but you need the one that works best for you.
Whether you’re flying or taking Amtrak, you’re the one carrying the load. Weight and comfort matter more than most people realize.
The Bottom Line
The best bag is the one that fits your life, trips, and body—while requiring the fewest compromises.
Not perfect, but just right.
Me with my old backpack in Lancaster, PA
What is Kev Up To?
This week was busy.
Saturday, I went to the local brewery, where I sat outside with friends, watching CN trains and the river drift by. Michael floated the idea of a guys' trip to Chicago, and Aaron and I were in immediately.
The 70s on Saturday didn't last long. Sunday arrived windy, the kind that leaves you breathless between stops at the breweries. Chicago lived up to its Windy City name, although that moniker referenced politicians.
Monday, I helped run cables at the theatre as we installed a Wurlitzer Style H organ for the theatre organ club. We hit some snags along the way, but we got it done.
The rest of the week focused on prep—getting ready for Saturday's Silent Film Night.
Thank You!
If you're interested in helping me continue, you can click the green button below, visit my support page for more options, or join my Patreon! With a paid Patreon membership, you get a monthly postcard and more!
Until Next Week!
Safe travels & Happy Planning, Kev Monteith
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Travels with Kev is independent and not affiliated with Amtrak or VIA Rail. The tips and information here are based on my personal experience. Always verify Amtrak's and VIA Rail's current policies, deals, and schedules before booking.
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