Convertible backpacks, wheeling into the marketplace, seek to combine the ease of rolling luggage with the keep-your-hands-free convenience of a backpack. But does the combo work? We tested five brands designed for overnight travel, in a range of sizes, prices and styles.
Cruiser Travel Pak (REI, $175)
Without the proper padding, the handle system and wheels of convertibles can be a real pain in the back. Not in this case: The sporty-looking REI model aces the comfort factor, and that's why backpackers may appreciate the bag's design more than the rolling luggage crowd. Still, it succeeds in full rolling mode, as it glides as smoothly as Tara Lipinski on ice. I had no problem packing a weekend's worth of clothing into its compact interior, and there's a handy outside accessory pocket.
Info: 800-426-4840,www.rei.com.
Whitehall (Tumi's T-Tech Collection, $350)
This bag does the best job of disguising itself as a suitcase on wheels (its back straps are concealed beneath a flap), and its roomy interior and two outside pockets can fit a good deal. And at that price, it should. But because it's so large, you can't tote a loaded Whitehall on your back for long. I was able to walk just a few blocks before breaking down and wheeling it smoothly to my destination. In a pinch, you can lug around a week's worth of clothing, but don't even think about using it as a backpack in that case.
Info: 800-322-8864, www.tumi.com.
Sydney (Jansport, $200)
Well, it looked comfortable. Then I hoisted it on my back and discovered the painful truth: There just isn't enough of that all-important padding to protect against the bag's mechanics. Fortunately, it rolls fine and is roomy enough to accommodate a high-maintenance traveler. Best of all, it comes with a detachable mini-backpack so you can leave the Sydney behind (and you'll want to!) if you're just hopping around town.
Info: 800-346-8239, www.jansport.com
Latitude Switchback (Eagle Creek, $260)
Although not as liberal with the padding as REI's model, the Switch-back (I tried the 22-inch model) is a fairly easy bag to tote, and I especially liked the flap that prevented the wheels from hitting my backside. It's designed more like a suitcase than a backpack, so traditional travelers will savor the roomy interior. Unlike some of the other bags tested, though, I was able to keep it strapped to my back for a half-hour commute with minimal pain. As a roller, the Switchback performs admirably.
Info: 800-874-9925, www.eaglecreek.com
Carryall Rolling Travel Pak (L.L. Bean, $199)
First, the good news: This handsome bag comes with a detachable knapsack that converts to a substantial business briefcase. The bad: It's cumbersome both as a roller and as a backpack. The handle rests too low, almost as if it were built for a child. I'm 5 feet 9 and was nearly stooping when pulling the pack. And the padding is poorly placed. You're better off with L.L. Bean's Deluxe Book Pack, which is strictly for day trips but more manageable.
Info: 800-809-7057, www.llbean.com.
Conclusion
The design of the rolling backpack simply does not lend itself to long-term use as solely a backpack. So, don't take one on a trip into the woods. But more adventurous travelers will find the flexibility of the convertibles appealing. Of those tested, REI's is by far the most comfortable and, while not the roomiest, it's more than adequate for a weekend visit — and is the least expensive.