using a backpack as luggage: cause for problems?

[Josefine]

Hi everyone,

the Bradt guide recommens not to use a backpack in Iran, as backpackers are considered suspicious and bad by (some?) local people and officials. Does anyone has any experience on this matter and if so what are you're recommandations?
I am a long term traveler by backpack and would like to keep it that we if possible. Thank you!

[bwv812]

I can't imagine it being a problem for locals, and I'm pretty sure I saw people using backpacks without problems. Being an unaccompanied female cyclist is more likely to strike locals and local officials as weird, but plenty of female cyclists have gone through Iran (though not without minor harassment/unwanted attention).

[steven]

I also remember reading that and thinking: what the...? Seriously don't know what kind of circles these ladies frequent but it does not reflect real life in Iran. Bradt has some helpful tips but some things are downright strange.