My wife and I are embarking on our first trip into the European territories. We are excited and my wife especially has waited, somewhat patiently, for ten years. That said, I would like to make the trip as painless and trouble free as possible.

I spent a good amount of time reading through "searches" for topics I had questions on. Wow, what a wealth of information here! Kudos to the flyer talk community. I hope I can one day return the favor (my only area of expertise is USA, and specifically Texas).

A few questions regarding cross country travel.

- we will be going from Dublin, flying to Amaterdam, train to Paris, and flying to Rome. Each stop 2-3 days.

First question. Albeit simple. I'm deciding on weather to take a roller duffel or a backpacking pack. With public transport to and from airports will it be difficult to lug luggage? I imagine it to be like New York City, with packed subways and filled busses...is this what's to be expected?

And weather. Reviewing the weather almanac, the range in temperature and conditions is...well very variable. I assume this is because a cold front can flip the switch from normally mild autumns. I plan to pack layers and a rain coat. Any other specifics to deal with the local climate?

Thanks in advance!