I have both a well-made Eagle Creek carry-on size travel backpack (no
wheels) and a standard Samsonite wheeled carry-on size suitcase. In 13
trips over the past six years to Europe, and lots of business travel
in the USA, I've used the wheeled bag almost exclusively (actually,
it's all I usually take, even for two+ week trips). I'm reasonably
young and fit, am an experienced backpacker, and still like my wheeled
bag! Yes, I've rolled it long distances over rough roads, even
cobblestones (a recent 20-minute walk from the RER in Paris to my
hotel in the Latin Quarter, for example), with no problems.

If you are train-touring in Europe, and tend to wander all day with
your luggage, then undoubtedly the backpack is the way to go. If you
stash your bag in a locker or your hostel/hotel during the day, then I
think the wheeled bag is easier all-round.

I do agree that a wheeled backpack is kind of redundant, and adds
unneccesary wieght and complexity. Note that many, if not most,
European and non-US airlines are very strict with wieght and size
restrictions for carryons. Several times I've been denied the ability
to carry-on my bag on a connecting flight (connecting from United or
US Air to Lufthansa, for example). Just because you are allowed it on
your trans-Atlantic leg does not mean you will be allowed it on your
intra-Europe leg. Pack accordingly, and make sure your carry-on does
not look overly heavy or bulging.

Brian W.
Philadelphia, Pa./USA

I looked at them briefly. All they do is add weight except for chasing
around in airports. Traveling by train, as I usually do in Europe, and
often walking over ground where wheels would be useless(have you ever
dragged something with little wheels over cobblestones? "leashes"
break). I didn't even consider one when I went backpack-shopping after
my last trip. I am a not outstandingly fit but healthy 69-year-old woman
who believes in traveling light.