What to Know About Europe’s Rumored Wheeled Luggage Ban

The loud clacking of luggage rolling across Europe’s famous cobblestone streets has caused a lot of noise online (pun intended). But as annoying as the sound might be, European wheeled suitcase bans—for better or worse—are only the stuff of fiction. 

These online rumors are hardly new—unfounded claims of European bans on wheeled luggage have been circulating for nearly 10 years. Back in 2014, it was rumored that Venice would soon begin charging tourists a hefty $620 fine for dragging their suitcases through the Italian city’s historic alleys and city squares; however, city officials swiftly denied that such a law would be enacted.

More recently, in 2023, speculation rose that wheeled suitcases would be banned from the charming stone-paved streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town district in Croatia, following incessant noise complaints from locals. This rumor was later debunked by the Croatian National Tourism Board in a statement, sharing that the medieval coastal city has no intentions to implement such a ban in the future. 

While rolling carry-ons and suitcases might not officially be banned in Europe, it’s worth recognizing that wheeled luggage and cobblestone streets aren’t a great mix. On top of the loud, grating sound that ensues, these uneven roads can cause undue stress on your bag’s wheels and axles, shortening their lifespan in the process. Plus, nothing slows you down faster or screams “tourist” quite like struggling with your carry-on suitcase on bumpy cobblestone. 

If you’ve got a trip to an old-world destination on the books, we recommend opting for a travel backpack or duffel bag instead. Keep scrolling to check out some of our favorite alternatives to traditional wheeled luggage, including three-in-one carry-on backpacks, weatherproof duffel bags, and organizational weekenders, starting at just $28.

Best Overall Duffels and Backpacks

Editor’s pick: Calpak Terra 50L Duffel Backpack, $238

Our “Best Overall Duffel Bag:”  Thule Chasm 70L Duffel Bag, $180

Best budget find: Etronik Duffel Weekender Bag, $40 (originally $50)

Great for overpackers: Samsonite Foldaway Packable Duffel Bag, $28 (originally $40)

Best wheeled backpack: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT Wheeled Duffel Backpack, $299

Calpak Terra 50L Duffel Backpack

This two-in-one Calpak duffel backpack has become a favorite among Travel + Leisure writers and editors, including yours truly. This carry-on-sized duffel bag is outfitted with tons of genius features and details, including exterior compression straps (a dream for overpackers), tons of interior and exterior compartments, a 17-inch padded laptop pocket, and a zippered clamshell opening that allows you quick access to your belongings. The padded shoulder straps, sternum strap, luggage trolley strap, and adjustable, removable shoulder strap mean you can comfortably wear it around multiple ways—no wheels necessary.

Etronik Large Duffel Weekender Bag

On sale for 20 percent off, this now-$40 Etronik Duffel Weekender Bag is worth its weight in gold. It’s chock full of organizational features, including a separate toiletry bag and a zippered shoe compartment at the base. Shoppers report that this carry-on-sized bag, 20.5 inches long, is so roomy that they didn’t have to check an extra bag. One five-star reviewer who wanted to forego checking a bag brought it on a five-day international trip, writing that it was “perfect for long haul flights as a carry-on.”

Taygeer Travel Backpack

On sale for $20 off, this Taygeer backpack is a dream for light travelers. Inside is a separate wet bag for toiletries, a mesh zippered pocket for small essentials, and a large main compartment for your clothes, complete with a built-in shoe pouch and space-saving compression straps. Over 15,000 Amazon shoppers have awarded this travel backpack five stars due to its surprisingly roomy interior. Despite being smaller than a standard carry-on, one five-star reviewer shared they can squeeze up to a week’s worth of clothing in it; meanwhile, another shopper shared that it was the perfect size for a month-long trek across Europe.

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

At 22 inches tall, Cotopaxi’s Allpa 42L Travel Pack—the brand’s biggest travel pack to date—is basically a full-sized carry-on in backpack form. This monster of a travel bag has a suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening that opens to reveal three large mesh zippered pockets. The exterior features a discrete zippered laptop pocket on the back, a stretchy mesh water bottle holder on the side, and a slim, zippered front compartment perfect for stashing your keys, passport, and phone. These organizational details mean you won’t have to blindly dig around for your essentials at a moment’s notice; everything has a dedicated spot that’s easy to track down.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT Wheeled Duffel Backpack

Who says you have to give up rolling carry-ons entirely? This Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel is a wheeled suitcase, backpack, and weekender bag all rolled into one 21.5-inch package. Built with two heavy duty, durable wheels, deployable backpack straps, and four exterior grab handles, this bag can be rolled or worn to your destination. While this duffel bag is a bit pricey at nearly $300, Amazon shoppers say it’s worth every penny: “This is our fourth purchase of an Eagle Creek piece of luggage and we are very pleased,” wrote one five-star reviewer, who purchased the Cargo Hauler XT for their college-bound son. 

Thule Chasm 70L Duffel Bag

The Thule Chasm currently holds the T+L title of Best Overall Duffel Bag, thanks to its durable materials, tons of packing space, organizational components, and comfortable backpack straps. At 26.6 inches long, this checked duffel bag was built to withstand the elements, making it a stellar option for outdoor enthusiasts. Waterproof zippers, weather-resistant fabrics, and strong, oversized grab handles ensure this bag will last you for years to come. Bonus? It’s made with 100 percent recycled materials, making it an eco-conscious investment. 

Samsonite Foldaway Packable Duffel Bag

If you love to shop on trips, this wheelless, packable Samsonite Foldaway Duffel is the bag for you. Available in two sizes—medium and extra-large—this foldable duffel bag is the perfect solution for when you need extra space for your souvenirs. It has two grab handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, and multiple side pockets for organizing your take-home goodies. One international traveler awarded it five stars, writing that it was “so useful” as a day bag for excursions.

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