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Yesterday I shared with you the top reasons why Osprey Meridians make awesome wheeled backpacks. In today’s post, I’m going to share with you why this rolling backpack didn’t work for me.
Why the Osprey Meridian Doesn’t Work for Me
Table Of Contents
Meridian 22 Downfalls
The major gripe I have is the shape of the this rolling backpack. The edges are rounded which means that I’m not getting maximum space. It’s also a bit awkward to pack as you get a few odd gaps due to the shape.
Because I don’t use the backpack straps it also bums me out that there is valuable space that’s not being used to the fullest in the back of the bag.
Because I prefer the fabric of the Farpoint 55 the Meridian’s materials are too much like a soft suitcase this isn’t what I want in an outdoor brand and wish the fabric could be like the Farpoint.
Lastly, the bag is a bit heavy, but because it has so many bells and whistles, this is normal for different luggage brands.
Learn more about how to choose a suitcase or a travel backpack.
Samsonite Luggage 22 Inch Andante Wheeled Duffel
Why a Rolling Backpack isn’t for Me
When I chose to travel with a rolling backpack I failed to realize that back problems meant that I could not use the backpack so this feature was completely useless for me and also used up valuable space.
As a solution I ditched the backpack straps to give me extra packing space while having the benefits of a  durable, solid bag.
I’m currently on the lookout for a rolling duffle, which makes more sense for people with back problems instead of wheeled backpacks. I still need an easy way to pick up my bag and a strap is more convenient than tiny luggage handles.
These are some rolling duffle bags I found. As much as I love Osprey, I’m currently looking at Samsonite Wheeled Duffle Bag.
Do I Recommend the Meridian 22 Rolling Backpack?
If you’re looking for a durable rolling backpack that’s going to kick butt on the road, the Meridian 22 is great. If you prefer wheels but want versatility to use, the occasional backpack is perfect.
 If you want to use the backpack more than wheels then it might be a bit on the heavy side. I think a traveler buying this bag should be more interested in using it for its wheels.
 If you can opt out of the backpack option, another Osprey pack that looks great is the Ozone 22. I’ve also considered buying this one as a replacement, but hesitated because I would love it to have a strap.
Osprey Ozone 22 inch Wheeled Luggage
I do not recommend a rolling backpack for travelers with back problems for the above reasons.
Please visit this page to learn more about the Osprey Meridian 22 rolling backpack.
Do you travel with a rolling backpack?
To learn more about our suggested travel gear, please read the following:
- Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands
- Packing Cubes: This Video Will Change the Way You Travel
- Weekender Bags for Holiday Travel: Fly in Style with our Top 10 Picks!
- The Best Toiletry Bags for Travel: Which will you choose?
Thanks for all the great info!
Thanks for reading Brenda!
Love reading why you DON’T like something. It makes it easier to enjoy the things you DO like! Thanks for all your great tips and info…. I enjoy them all!
Thanks Brenda! I just hope to help others! Thanks for reading!
I actually used the Meridian to backpack 5 weeks through Europe. I have to say I have a completely different outlook than the reviewer. I too have back problems. I wanted a rolling option but did not want to be limited in times when I needed to carry it on me in areas where the ground would not permit rolling. While on the heavier side, I had a fine time traveling with this pack. I loved that I could attach the daypack to the roller so save my back even more. When I didn’t use the straps, I was able to store my purse in the pocket that housed the straps – so I would not say the space was rendered useless. It’s all about how you are able to maneuver the space your given. I promise, with some creativity, you can make things work.
Thanks for your feedback Vicki. It is a great bag and I love Osprey – it’s just not my dream bag for traveling long term 🙂 I’m glad it works for you!
If the owner of this Osprey Meridian is interested in selling it, let me know!
Hi Gabby, I’m the owner but not interested in selling it yet 🙂
Hi do you still have this pack?
Hi Lorrie, I got the MERIDIAN, because I wanted wheels and needed rugged traction for my long term travels.
However, I found it too bulky for me and ended up switching to the OZONE 46 (they no longer make it, the new one is the 42 version https://amzn.to/2CkvZoA)
The Osprey Ozone 46L wheeled bag was one of my all time favorite carryon bags for long term trips! This is my review: http://bit.ly/ozone46review
When they released a backpack version – the Osprey Ozone 35 L Travel Pack – I had to have it and was just as awesome as the wheeled bag but sadly that too is now no longer available.
The Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack is a similar backpack to the Ozone 35L (Amazon #CommissionsEarned): https://amzn.to/2LjoXaS
Hope this helps!
If you’re looking for a rolling duffle, check out this one from Briggs & Riley: http://www.briggs-riley.com/category/productDetail.aspx?id=Expedition-Large-Duffle_BUD229 I love their bags and they come with a lifetime warranty. I’m very happy with my 25″ upright.
I’m thinking a wheeled backpack might work well on my upcoming trip since my Parisian apartment is a 4th floor walk-up. Oy.
Thanks! I’ll definitely check it out. A duffle would work just as well if it’s for flights of stairs – primarily what I’m looking for 🙂