My go-to way of traveling is a backpack (25 liters) for toiletries, purse, extra layers, and snacks but not filled to the brim. Then a very small roller bag - with two wheels I don't like how the 4 wheeled bags work on uneven surfaces - one that I can easily pick up to put in overheads or pick upstairs. This means that I'm limited in what I can bring and what I can bring back. I usually plan to wear 1 pair of shoes and pack a second. I plan to do laundry while traveling and I don't typically pick up items while traveling. Most of everything I consume while there (Italian food - yum). The suitcase is not expandable. I do a test pack before I leave, and make sure my outfits all work together. The keys for me - are that I can easily and comfortably carry my bags, they can be wheeled over cobblestone streets without issue and I can lift them. The older I've gotten the less I need or bring. When traveling in shoulder seasons - I bring items that can cover various things - a scarf that is usable as a small lap throw or blanket for a picnic in the park/beach. A rollup sunhat or wool cap for colder weather. My biggest goal is I don't want to end up with back problems and I find that many backpack travel bags are terrible on for your shoulders, neck and back.

I travel with a small rolling cabin bag and a weekender bag that qualifies as a personal item. I’m frequently in Europe and use public transport, so I’m mindful that I have to be able to maneuver cobblestones, carry my stuff down subway stairs, etc. I use the Away suitcase (the smaller one, which is sized for European airlines’ dimensions) and a weekender that has a sleeve to slide over the suitcase handle so you don’t have to carry it (mine is the small Catalina weekender from Lo & Sons). IMO the key is to get a 4-way roller so you can push it upright alongside you with a bag that can sit on the suitcase. I find backpacks bulky in crowded areas and also less secure - pickpockets can grab stuff more easily.

I can pack for 3+ weeks with this setup. Bring clothing that matches, 1-2 pairs of shoes max, and try to do laundry once on the trip. Good luck!

Minimize your toiletries.You can go without the full skincare routine, etc. for a short period.You don’t need much if staying at a hotel that provides the basics. Many AirBnBs will supply if you ask. I’d honestly rather spend an hour in a hair salon abroad getting pampered with a blowout than drag unnecessary stuff in my luggage. I’m a very light packer and my trips feel a bit luxurious when I do this. I’m not sure of your budget, though.

Anonymous wrote:Backpack will be much more maneuverable if traveling anywhere other than the biggest stations/mainline trains. Definitely can't count on smooth rolling surfaces and ramps everywhere. If you can handle the weight of a backpack (meaning putting it on, adjusting, etc), something like this is light but will be comfortable to walk with because of the waist belt, which puts most of the weight on your hips.

https://www.rei.com/product/207736/osprey-fairview-40-travel-pack-womens

I had one of these when I toured Europe right after college. I'm 58 now and I would absolutely NOT wear a heavy backpack at my age. I think OP needs an expandable spinner carry on or a small expandable spinner if it is just over carry on size and check it. And they should be thoughtful about the stuff that is packed in it so everything fits. And find the largest personal item to bring on the plane to overfill for purchases to take home from the trip. But as an "older women" OP won't want to carry around a heavy backpack. I hope you have a fabulous trip OP!!