I'm going to Europe in mid may for about 2 weeks and I've been looking for a decent backpack. I've heard from some people to go for a 60-L internal backpack, and I've also heard from other people that I shouldn't buy a backpack as that pretty much puts the tourist label on me. Suggestions?

In 1986 I backpacked through Europe with a Eurail pass. They are so used to tourists with backpacks that it isn't a worry. I travelled for 2 months in Europe and tended pub in London for 2 months. One of the best experiences of my life. I would recommend not putting an american flag on your backpack as the sentiment towards americans is not the best.

Nah you won't look like a tourist, just a student. It is pretty common here for people to backpack around. I've done it a few times myself. If you are strong go for a 75 litre just for the extra space, I think 60l are a bit small esecially for 2 weeks. But then again I'm a girl so probably need more stuff!

If you want to look like a tourist wear a bumbag and have a camera permanently hung around your neck. And then ask policemen in London where the Edinburgh castle is. (True story)

There is not that much anti american sentiment but if you want to avoid it pretend you are canadian.

Where abouts are you heading?

Well, technically, I'm asian... so I guess that's one "advantage"

I'm heading to:

London
Brussels
Berlin
Amsterdam
Prague
Barcelona
Madrid

Ah, you're heading more north than I did (Italy, Greece, south of France, Switzerland). Planning the trip is half the fun. Have a great time!

Been to Berlin and Amsterdam. I don't have advice on the backpack, I love my suitcase!
I do have advice on the American thing. As a European I do have to say the there is a bit of prejudice with respect to Americans in Europe (not me personally, I love all you guys!), they love Canadians though, so if you want to see your luggage once you get to Europe, put a Canadian flag sticker on your backpack, I kid you not!

Have fun while you are there Sneezy, I must say you have a pretty heavy schedule for a
2 week trip, but you're still young. :)

I traveled all around China and Mongolia with my North Face backpack. Wouldn't recommend traveling without it - easy to carry, expandable for all the goodies you'll buy, and convenient.

All my friends overseas swear by their North Face's. :)

This one is my pride and joy The North Face - Gear - Packs -> Expedition & Technical -> Expedition / Catalyst 60 (http://www.thenorthface.com/opencms/opencms/tnf/gear.jsp?site=NA&model=AZH7&language=en)

Have fun, Sneezy!

First let me say I'm jealous! Second, have you seen this site?

http://www.guideforeurope.com/

It looks like there is a ton of information, and even a section on how to pick out the best backpack for your trip.

Good luck and happy travels! :)

You can browse Student Trips to Europe (http://www.s-trip.com/Trips-and-Destinations/Europe.html) to know more about the European tours & itineraries.

You can browse Student Trips to Europe (http://www.s-trip.com/Trips-and-Destinations/Europe.html) to know more about the European tours & itineraries.Well he posted this in 2008 so I think he's already done his trip. Be careful about posting your link everywhere - it's starting to look like spam and may be deleted. Plus there is no additional information at all, just sales information.
Perhaps you can answer *some* questions without referring to your site?