We’re in the middle of getting a lot of little things done and sorted, such as vaccinations and our packing list. We brainstormed what we knew from previous trips backpacking and hiking, got our friends’ packing list sent over and researched a little. I think most of it is common sense, trying to go minimalist and top that off with a few luxury items that one doesn’t really need but would make things so much more fun!
I thought I’d share our current list to help anyone that wants to do something similar, but mostly, it is to get your input on what you think might be missing. I know quite a few people that have been travelling/backpacking for a longer period and would love your wisdom. Pretty please.
As I said the list below is still a work in progress until we have done some test packing. Also, I know that we don’t need a camera, a phone and an iPad/laptop. They have a purpose and I am still debating with myself if I’m going to take all of it or cut it by at least 1 device.
And ladies, what did you do for that time of the month? Did you pack it all upfront? Help a woman out!
[UPDATE 04-2018: I had a lot of feedback on this. I am still debating how I’ll do it and will experiment with a cup before travel upon recommendation of a friend who said that it worked well for her.]
[UPDATE 08-2018] I attached the list as a Packing list in case it’s helpful for you and you find it easier having it on paper to cross things off as you pack.
29 March 2018
https://herpackinglist.com/ 😉
29 March 2018
Thanks. I shall have a look
29 March 2018
water disinfecting tablets. saved me a couple times in guatemala … but if youre always gonna close to bottles water than maybe not….
29 March 2018
Yes, good one. Thanks
29 March 2018
maybe just a pair of flip flops to relax? the single most useful footgear ive ever had backpacking was my pair of fivefingers
29 March 2018
We’re thinking about sandals that are bit more robust. Do you think that is useful? Or would you still opt for flip flops instead?
29 March 2018
chaffing stick …. for them hikes or long walks in heat
microfiber towels, so they dry fast even in humid conditions
ok i stop now
29 March 2018
Ok updated the list. Towel is already on there. Thanks and feel free to keep going 🙂
29 March 2018
It depends on where you are going. For my mega India trip (December – February), I skipped cold weather gear, and had a selection of lighter layers. My basic formula was three of everything, and I stretched to 4 for underwear. I have quick-drying gear, and three would have been fine. I can’t imagine two sets of swimwear, but bikinis are small, so…
I skipped water purification tablets and carry a UV water purifier. I prefer Ultrathon, a very effective Deet-free mosquito repellent.
aI always carry a Z-Pak (Azithromycin) antibiotic regime (usually 3 x 500mg), just in case. I have had occasion t use it. Ondansetron is another emergency standby, and effectively deals with very severe nausea. Imodium or local equivalent is also a must. If these aren’t enough, I also have emergency insurance, which in the worst of cases, will cover an airlift.
I bought a very cool wire mesh backpack security device. It was about a kilo that I could have lived without. I never used it. I would be happy to send it to you, if you pay shipping.
My backpack and computer bag meet the requirements for international cabin luggage, so I don’t carry anything, such as a leatherman, that can’t be carried on.
I am a little excessive in the electronics department. I always carry a surge-buster, as I have encountered some very odd and occasionally dangerous wiring. I carry a tiny router that can extend wifi or provide it from a wired connection. I use VPN service everywhere. I carry a modest size USB battery.
I have a Google Pixel 2 phone, which in the US can be had with Google Project Fi. That provides phone and IP in 135 countries, and was often preferable to hotel wifi. That phone can also connect to the router to provide a local network. I carry an iPhone 5S, and by a local SIM. It is a lot easier and cheaper that it used to be to do this, and having a local number is often essential for things like Ola Cab in India. It also makes it a lot easier to book a train ticket.
29 March 2018
Brilliant, thank you Cary
30 March 2018
Hey, remember to take a pen, you’ll be surprised at how often you’ll find yourself needing one (for filling in landing cards et al). Spare plastic bags are also super useful. Not sure I saw head torch in there, but also a really good thing to have. And laundry bag + a small bag of washing powder will also likely come in handy. Enjoy!
30 March 2018
Pen and torch are on the list. Why would you recommend a head torch over a normal torch?
Washing powder is missing. Thanks!
31 March 2018
No worries! If you’re somewhere without electricity it’s easier with the head torch as it keeps your hands free to do whatever else you need to do (especially useful for bathroom breaks 🙂
2 April 2018
[…] Travel planning – the packing list […]
5 August 2018
[…] About a week ago, we also test packed for the first time. Plan is to do another round this week when we’ve got some more missing bits. I think we’re on track and don’t actually have that much. Revisiting and revising the packing list definitely helped and also thanks to all the feedback we’ve received. I uploaded the latest packing list in the packing list post. […]