I have a wonderful Osprey backpack that I love. I also have a small hybrid Osprey wheeled backpack that I am looking to sell (it's just never worked for me), and an LL Bean Sportmans wheeled carry-on sized bag.
For this trip, I opted for the LL Bean wheelie. It's a small wheeled bag, and I plan to pack fairly light so I have room for purchases. I've never had trouble getting it into an overhead bin, and can carry it quite a ways in a pinch. At each of my stops, I will be staying for at least five days, mostly with friends. I'm not doing any formal backpacking or trekking. Other than going from the train station to where I'm staying, I won't ever need to even take it on a bus (and I plan to take subways and trains, I prefer them).
In other words, my "big" bag and I will be following paths taken every day by business workers with those little wheeled briefcases.
Another reason I chose the wheelie over my backpack is because my wheelie has some hard edges and corners. On my flight back out of London, I may choose to check the wheelie, especially if I've picked up any liquids (wine?) or similar. The backpack is not ideal for that.
Also, the my version (an older one) of the LL Bean Sportsman has two equal-sized compartments when opened, which makes accessing items very very easy. Backpacks - not so accessible. Especially since I'll be staying with friends, I like to be able to quickly access my belongings and then pack everything neatly away so I'm not taking up the whole room (or living room!). A wheelie suitcase is better equipped for this.
Finally, on the inconsequential side, the wheelie looks neat, smart, and professional. I like blending in when I travel. I think sometimes Americans get this insane focus on traveling as lightly as possible and end up in rumpled exercise clothes they would never dream of wearing out at home. I'll take the extra weight, work on my arm strength as I navigate, and look much more like a normal, presentable, possibly European person. Works for me.
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