Packing List
Whether you’re planning to ride a motorbike through Mongolia, camping as you go, or to relax on a beach in the Bahamas without a care in the world, packing efficiently is essential.
You can find below some of my recommendations for specific items which you may want to take on your next adventure.
Packing depends on many factors. Some good questions to ask yourself are:
- How long are you going away for?
- What climate(s) are you travelling to?
- What activities do you plan to do?
- The culture of the country you are visiting? Do you need some conservative clothing to cover more skin/tattoos?
- Do you need anything which you can’t get abroad? i.e. medicine, life straw etc.
- Are you travelling with others? If so, could you share items which you use infrequently?
Don’t Stress!
Many people also make the mistake of overpacking, bringing huge bags of toiletries, medicines they never use and too many clothes. People often forget that in most places you will visit, the locals there also use the same services and need the same things that you use in your day-to-day life. For example, if it’s a cold country, they will sell warm clothes. If it’s a warm country, they will sell lightweight clothes which protect the skin from the sun. They will also have markets, dentists, doctors, pharmacists etc just like you have in your home country. Buying clothing and other items abroad also makes for nice keepsakes. I have travelled for years now and very little of what I first packed when I left England remains and I have a collection of items with me, many of which are superior to what you find in Western countries, as clothing etc is adapted for extreme climates which local people have had to adapt to. Long story short, don’t worry too much if you don’t bring that extra pair of shorts or an extra T-shirt; chances are you will be able to get something just as nice, if not nicer, overseas. That being said, if you have any medical conditions etc., where it’s imperative that you must take something with you, come prepared and make sure you can replenish your stores where you’re going.
Packing List Items
Backpack
If you want to be a backpacker, it goes without saying that you need one of these. You can take suitcases, but they can be more awkward to move around with, especially in parts of the world where pavements (sidewalks) are not as well-maintained or existent as in many Western countries. They are also a pain to carry up flights of stairs and many budget accommodations don’t have lifts. If you pack well with a decent backpack, you can also store loads of clothes and not be too worried about them getting creased.
Try to get a backpack that is comfortable and fits you well. It’s worth seeing some in shops if you are going on a long trip. Many also have male and female versions, which are specific to the dimensions of our backs, so make sure you get the right one for you. A good comfy hip strap is a must and make sure you know how to fit a backpack so that it doesn’t cause you pain. In reality you will find you don’t carry around a large rucksack too much other than for short distances from public transport to tour hostel, you’ll then leave most of your things there and take a smaller bag out in the town/hiking so it’s likely you won’t have one of these on your back as much as you first think; unless you plan on doing lots of multi-day hiking trips where you need camping gear etc.
Some people, when they first start traveling take a large rucksack on their back and a smaller one to carry on their front – I was no different. The small one can be carried around towns and kept with you, while the big one largely just ends up sitting in your hostel down/hotel. If you can, try and get a small back which fits inside the big one with its contents, as carrying another bag on your front for longer distances can be annoying and make you a very sweaty Betty. It’s normal to start backpacking with a large rucksack, then cut down what you need as you get more experienced.
Backpack styles – Some people like backpacks with a zip which undoes the entire front of the backpack. I had this on my first travels and never used it. To me, it’s one more thing that can go wrong and if you use packing cubes (which I discuss below), then you never need to do this anyway.
Access – Consider access to your backpack: is there a water bottle holder on the outside? Is there a smaller compartment somewhere for quick-to-grab items? Etc.
Waterproofing – Most countries get rain pretty regularly, consider getting a backpack with a built-in waterproof cover, or if you love a backpack without one, get a good cover that you can keep to hand should you get a sudden downpour. You can also use these in areas where you are considered for your security with it being harder for pickpockets to see zips and open your backpack when its covered by the waterproof layer although this double edged sword can make you stand out more as well as a tourist; that being said chances are you’ll be seen as the tourist you are from a mile away anyway!
Aeroplanes – If you want to budget travel, be conscious of the dimensions of your backpack and its weight once packed. The three common types of travel items on planes are:
- Checked bags – the big one going under the plane. The size and weight restrictions vary from airline to airline, but it’s often around 23 kg (50 lbs). Many budget airlines are only around 20kg (44lbs). Check with your airline before you go.
- Carry-on baggage – This is the bag you take on the plane with you. I try to keep my valuables in here so that they’re with me at all times with my passport, wallet, etc., in my pockets on the plane.
- Personal item – A very small bag or purse you can take with you.
Depending on the airline and what you pay for, what items are included in your ticket price may vary. When I travelled for a few weeks in Mexico, I used budget airlines that only included a personal item for free. Being the light-weight traveller and cheapskate I am, I took only this, and it worked really well – this is, of course, only really possible in warm climates where you only take lightweight clothes.
Packing cubes
These are a game-changer! You can roll up your clothes in these so that they don’t crease too much and keep your clothes compact and organised. I have labelled mine with plastic fobs so organise clothes by use: hiking, tops, bottoms, underwear & socks. etc. If you are going for a longer trip, they’re a great buy.
Toileteries
You will need a toiletries bag and many beginner travellers take a huge one, which can be very bulky. A lot of travellers have small bottles of shampoo and other potions in this bag. I find they run out quickly, leak, and they add weight and bulk. You will find in a lot of places that hostels and hotels also provide shampoo and shower gel, so if you don’t mind using the toiletries on offer, I just do that.
I myself have probably the lightest toiletries bag you’ll ever see. I take only:
- Manual toothbrush (electric takes up more space and also needs a special charger)
- Toothpaste (small)
- Moisturiser (small)
- Nail scissors (mine fold up so they can’t stab/damage anything)
- Comb (not brush)
- Hair wax (small)
- Lip balm
- Beard trimmer
Yes, that’s it; no shampoo, no deodorant, no conditioner, no shower gel, just the pure essentials. All this I keep inside, what I believe was actually designed as a net pencil case, meaning air can flow in, so things can dry and not go mouldy. I would use my loadout as a starting point for your toiletries (minus the beard trimmer for the ladies), and add more as you see fit, weighing up the options as you do. Be conscious that the size of your toiletries, particularly your quantities of liquids, dictates your aeroplane luggage; if you want to only take carry-on luggage with no checked bag, airlines typically restrict you to take 100ml or less per bottle on the plane.
If I find small bottles of shampoo or small bars of soap at hotels, then I often take these with me as a backup in case the place I am going to doesn’t have anything. If I get somewhere and it doesn’t offer any bodywash, etc. and if I don’t have any small soaps, etc. that I’ve taken from another place with me, then I just wash with water. To many Westerners, I’m sure you are curling your noses up at me and the thought of this, but I have found that washing off the sweat and grime at the end of the day means I don’t smell (or at least not that I’ve been told anyway!). I also haven’t used deodorant for years now. My view is it’s big, bulky, heavy and frankly, I think our natural human smell is often nicer anywhere than a load of chemicals. If you do take some, you’re best off taking a small roll-on, it’s smaller, lighter and won’t set off your hostel/hotel smoke alarm!
Travel Documents
I recommend that you keep your travel documents in a waterproof folder and check regularly that they’re still there. Some may be electronic, but make sure you have your:
- Passport
- Visa (if required)
- Plane ticket
- Yellow Fever card (if required – some countries require proof of vaccination on entry)
Some countries also require proof of an outbound flight from that country, even if you are planning to leave by bus/boat, which can be annoying. See my Travel Tips for more information on preparing to travel.
Using my universal travel adaptor on a train in south India.
Universal Travel Adapter
Every traveller needs one of these! Make your life easy and get a universal travel adapter, which means you can charge your devices in whichever country you visit.
Battery Pack
I undertook most of my early travels without one of these, charging my phone at night, on car journeys via a USB port and using aeroplane mode to save battery when required. I got a battery pack around 1 year into my travels and found it really useful when heading into less developed areas of the world and when going on longer, off-grid trips.
Chances are you will be using your phone a fair amount on your travels: taking photos, using maps, researching destinations, logistics, visas requirements, listening to music and tracking your trip; I use a great app called Polarsteps which I use like a diary and travel tracker which I love but when its tracking you all the time it does take up more battery. For more info on the Polarsteps app, check out my list of travel app recommendations on my Travel Tips page.
I do recommend getting a small, lightweight charger for your phone, which can charge it 2+ times over at least. Larger ones I have rarely found the use for; if I do go on a longer trip, I just use my phone more sparingly or turn on aeroplane mode still. If you aren’t sure whether to get one or not, you can always buy one in your destination country; they’re pretty commonplace. If you are going off-grid, you can always buy a separate GPS tracker for safety (see below).
Note for motorbikers: I learned to ride motorbikes abroad, and it’s something that many people do while travelling. You can often charge devices from a USB port while driving. I am no expert on this, but I was told that these means of charging can surge and damage your phone and that it’s safer to charge a battery pack from these and then charge your phone later from the battery pack to mitigate the risk of damaging your phone.
Headtorch
I took one of these travelling and didn’t expect to use it much (since I rarely use a torch at home), but found I used one loads of my travels and highly recommend it. There will be times you are out at night in remote areas, stargazing, camping, animal spotting, you name it. Your phone torch (flashlight) may be good for short-distance light to dodge the odd tree root, but you need a proper torch to avoid missing out on incredible nighttime activities; besides, there is a good chance you may want to save your phone battery anyway. Try to get one with a USB-C charger or regular (AA) batteries so that you can save yourself the headache of taking multiple charging cables on your trip.
Padlock
It’s always good to take a padlock, especially if you are staying in hostels. Lockers are normally provided for your belongings, but padlocks often aren’t, so take one with you! I strongly recommend a combination padlock rather than one with a key in case you lose the key!
Water Bottle
I am a big fan of insulated, metal water bottles; they keep your drinks cooler for longer and also your hot drinks warmer. They are great for cold climates when you want cool water, and also in cold climates where your water would otherwise freeze. Always do research to make sure that where you are going on your travels has potable tap water; if it doesn’t, buy bottled water. I tend to pour my chilled bottled water into my insulated travel bottle to keep it cool. I also decorate mine with stickers of where I’ve been so that I can tell it apart from other people’s and it makes for a nice souvenir for myself. I use a 621ml (21oz) Hydro Flask, which I have linked below and I supplement it with a Lifestraw (next up on this list!).
I have also met a girl while travelling who had one which shines a UV light into her water to kill bacteria and it was rechargeable. She got it as a present before travelling and loved it as it meant she was able to drink tap water in countries which do not have drinking water from the tap. That being said, they’re not cheap, so if you feel like splashing out (or asking friends and family to gift you one as a leaving present), then I have included a link for one below with good reviews.
You can find links to examples of two of my suggestions (one insulated and one UV) below.
My friend Tobias borrowing my life straw and drinking from a stream on our ascent of Tenacity Peak, Canadian Rockies
Lifestraw
Easily one of my favourite items I own. A Lifestraw is a plastic straw with a filter inside, which makes most water drinkable. There are some restrictions, for example, you can’t drink most water (with some exceptions like saltwater, etc.). I would advise getting one of these before you go travelling, as they are difficult to find in many countries. I love them as it means I carry way less water with me on hikes, as I can drink straight from streams as I go. Where possible, I try to drink from clean-looking running water (as opposed to stagnant) just to be safe, but it’s really good.
You will find that in areas with snow or if you climb so high up a mountain that there are few sizable streams, you will still need to take more bottled water, but I have found this product to be a true game-changer!
I often drink directly from streams. It’s tasty, fun and makes you feel very animalistic and in touch with nature. I have recently bought a flexible bottle, which is compact but can be filled and used to push water through my Lifestraw filter into a water bottle to refill what I have and I recommend this if you are going on longer hikes/camping, etc. I have linked the Lifestraw I use below but as for the squeezable bottle to push water through it I haven’t been able to find the exact one. I have linked one which looks similar, so give that a go, although I haven’t tried it to see if it’s a good fit, so be prepared to have to send it back!
Earplugs
Taking a few earplugs can be good for sleeping in hostels if you get a snorer. Some hostels provide them at reception but it doesn’t hurt to take some with you before you go. For the cheap sponge-like ones, you fit them by pinching the end to go in your ear and twisting it around before pushing that into your ear opening; this way, when it opens and expands, it will form a better seal. You can often find these cheaply on Amazon or at hardware stores. Alternatively, you can consider getting some better, long-lasting ones like those I’ve linked below, which, if you are planning a trip of more than a few weeks, are definitely worth considering.
First Aid Kit
I’ve always taken one, frankly, though, in my years of travelling, I’ve never used it. If you feel better off taking one with a few bandages, etc., in there, it can’t hurt; if so, make sure you know what’s in it and how to use it. If you do something away from any medical facilities, though, such as going hiking, then definitely take one. It’s also a good idea if you are doing longer trips, around the world.
Medicine and Contraception
If you need regular medication, take some with you and consider where you can get more. Als,o it may be worth taking some basics such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, etc. In some parts of the world, you may also require malaria tablets.
For those taking the contraceptive pill, prepare accordingly by either packing enough for your trip or making note of the pill you take and researching where you can acquire it overseas.
Condoms are often easy to find at pharmacists the world over; however, you may want to take some with you as well.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are definitely worth taking, it’s important to protect your eyes in bright light, and also nobody wants to be squinting in every travel photo they have. I often wear sunglasses on planes too, to help me sleep. I am a big fan of polarised sunglasses as they make water look incredible and can show things that you may not otherwise notice. It’s also worth getting good prescription glasses and sunglasses before you travel to make the most out of what you are going to see.
Me wearing Vallon sunglasses on the Athabasca Glacier, Canadian Rockies
Vallon sunglasses
I use Vallon sunglasses in extremely bright conditions, such as in snow and deserts. They have material on the sides to reduce glare and offer better protection than regular sunglasses. I am also regularly complimented on their style too. I have found them to be great if you plan to spend a lot of time in more extreme climates. If you don’t plan on spending lots of time in extreme conditions, then I would suggest only taking regular sunglasses. I also use regular sunglasses in conjunction with Vallon sunglasses, as the side coverings mean that your peripheral vision is hindered, so they should not be used while driving.
If you head over to my Brand Discounts page, you can find a discount code for Vallon along with many others.
Hat
If you go somewhere hot, you will need one! Even if you are blessed with high melanin content, skin cancer is no joke. Also, there is nothing worse than missing out on activities because you are back at the hostel, hiding in the shade in agony, applying copious amounts of aloe vera to your sunburnt skin as your friends go off on an adventure because you didn’t bring a hat.
Me wearing my Barmah hat while sleeping on my horse, Dusty, during a horse trek across the steppe in northern Mongolia
Barmah Hats
I take a Barmah hat with me travelling, which my brother recommended to me, and it’s amazing. It’s made of kangaroo leather and looks a bit ‘Indiana Jones-vibes’ for want of a better way to describe it. It rolls up into a bag, which they provide, so it doesn’t take up too much space.
I remember when I received that hat, it came with scratches on the leather and an accompanying piece of paper stating that the scratches are not damage but scars from when kangaroos have been fighting and scratching each other. If you are also not a fan of using animal products, be aware that kangaroos are far from endangered; there are over 35 million+ in Australia. If you don’t believe me, head to the land down under. I used to live there, and everywhere you look, those overgrown rabbits are knocking about! Kangaroo talk aside, get a good hat!
You can find discounts for Barmah hats and other brands which I love on my Brand Discounts page.
Suncream
Take some good stuff! You can typically buy it in every hot country you visit, but if you have a specific brand you like, consider taking some with you. I am a big fan of Banana Boat suncream as I find it protects me without being too greasy, so I’ve put the Amazon link for you below. Ultimately though, on a long trip, you’ll end up needing to buy more abroad. The more I have travelled, the more I have realised that suncream only does so much; it’s always best to cover up your skin with light, breathable layers and avoid direct sunlight when it’s really hot.
After Sun
I’ve never taken any; I often find someone else has some I can use, or I buy some at a pharmacy as and when required. If you are prone to sunburn (to my ginger friends out there, I am talking to you), maybe consider taking it.
Mosquito Spray
You can take some if you like. I have often bought stuff locally overseas and found good brands where mosquitoes are the worst. If you want to be organised and get some before you go then I suggest you get a small travel-sized one like that linked below.
Swimwear
Get some you like! You’ll find swimming spots wherever you go on your travels, whether it’s beach vibes or swimming in mountain lakes and plunge pools.
Be conscious that in hot countries it’s often good to wear a T-shirt, especially while snorkelling, to avoid significant burns. I often wear a thin breathable one, which won’t absorb a lot of water, making me slow in the water, but which is sufficient to keep the sun off me. If you intend on doing lots of surfing, you may also want a hat with a spring that can offer protection from the waves.
I am a big fan of taking some googles with me on my trips to beach locations. You can use them in the sea or swimming pool, and given their small size and lightweight, it’s not much hardship to take them on your travels.
You may want to look into taking a waterproof pouch for your phone when you are swimming. This means you can keep your valuables with you and get some underwater shots (although be sure to test it while empty first, just to be safe).
If you plan on doing a lot of water activities, especially around shallow coral, you may also want to consider getting coral shoes for extra grip and to reduce the risk of cuts. These can take up space, though, so it’s only worthwhile if you think you will get use out of them. You may struggle to find them in some developing areas of the world, but in countries like Australia and New Zealand, you will likely be able to find them relatively easily when you’re there.
Swiss Army Knife
Swiss army knives/pen knives/multitools, no matter what you call them, can come in handy on larger excursions. That being said, I took one for much of my travels and found that I very rarely used it. Maybe take tweezers and scissors with your first aid kit, but other than that, I found little use for one. You also cannot take these as carry-on luggage onto the plane, so bear that in mind.
Check out my Brand Discount page for discounts.
Me wearing Salomon Quest 4 hiking boots at Cirque Peak, Canadian Rockies
Footwear
Footwear is tough because it can be bulky.
I typically take as a minimum:
- Flip flops (or similar; sandals, etc.) – I use these loads while abroad, around the hostel, out and about, at the beach, etc. They’re small, and you can even clip them onto your rucksack with a carabiner or your bag straps while they dry if needed.
- Trainers (sneakers) – I typically get trainers, which are comfortable and washable; washable trainers are not only easy to clean but also typically fold down flat to save space.
Extra footwear:
- Hiking boots – I love hiking, so unless I am going on a very short trip, I typically always get them. I always recommend ensuring they are waterproof and that you try them on to ensure that they’re comfy and work for you. Everyone is different, so have a good walk around the store in them before you look to buy any.
I also take a carabiner to attach them to the outside of my backpack for when I’m not using them otherwise, they take up a lot of space.
I’m a big fan of Solomon Hiking boots. They’re incredibly comfy and waterproof. The only downside I have found is that they aren’t as durable as I would like, but that’s a fair trade-off for their overall performance. I have been wearing their Salomon Quest 4 for years now, like them. Check out my Brand Discounts page to browse my brand discounts. - Coral shoes – As discussed above under ‘swimwear’.
- Climbing Shoes I am a climber, and I sometimes take shoes on shorter trips, but I never take them on longer ones. They take up space, and let’s be honest, they smell. I only take them if I know I’ll spend a good portion of my trip climbing. I have found in places famous for climbing, I can often rent some along with some gear while I’m there.
Towel
Your main options for a travel towel are:
- Microfibre towel – The most common choice amongst the travelling community – they are quick-drying and far smaller than a conventional towel.
- Sarong – A thin fabric used to cover the legs for men and women. Sarongs are commonplace in south-east Asia but are also found in other areas. I use mine for everything, it’s smaller and quicker drying than a microfiber towel and as I got it overseas, it’s also a souvenir which travels with me. If I’m travelling light, I use it for everything, but some people use them for beach towels and use a microfibre towel as their main towel. They’re not great for drying hair, so if you have long hair, they may not be great for you. If you are in south-east Asia, however, I highly recommend you get one! I often use just these in hot countries to dry off the thick of the water, as in hot countries, you air-dry in no time anyway.
- Turkish towel – Although I haven’t used one myself, some people love Turkish towels, which are thin and fast drying, but not as thin as a sarong.
- Beach Towel I never travel with one as they are far too bulky. Some hostels and hotels loan them out to guests, or you could buy one when you’re overseas if you’re a beach fanatic, but they are very space-hungry.
I would recommend spending a couple of seconds flicking and brushing water beads off yourself after a shower before you use your towel. This will make your towel less wet and therefore make it dry more quickly. Your towel can also get musty if you pack it in a bag after a shower for a long period of time so consider putting wet socks or a towel in the net water bottle pouches on the outside of your backpack while in transit to maintain some airflow.
Tops (Clothing)
Waterproof jacket – I take a thin waterproof jacket which can be rolled up relatively small. If you are only doing hot places like south-east Asia and nowhere else, you may be fine with simply buying cheap, disposable waterproof ponchos, which are sold at convenience stores. If you plan on hiking, however or doing anything more extreme, I think they’re a good idea and mine has been used a lot on my travels. Try and get a good brand where the water ‘beads’ and runs off rather than cheaper ones where the water can ‘cling’ to your jacket, making you much cooler.
Layers – I typically pack thin layers, which I can combine together for extra warmth and always take a microfleece. This means I can travel light while still being warm in most climates. For longer trips, I take a thermal top and trousers. I barely ever wear them, but they don’t take up much space for the amount of heat they add if I am in an emergency.
Gents – hot climates – I highly recommend having short-sleeve shirts in hot climates. I normally wear those and shorts for 95% of my time. Shirts are far superior to T-Shirts as they often dry more quickly and the buttons at the front let in some ventilation. I also often take a breathable T-shirt to use for hiking and while swimming, which dries quickly.
Revealing clothing – If you enjoy wearing crop tops or tank tops, etc., consider bringing a shirt or similar which you can take with you during the day and wear over the top to avoid sunburn. Also, be conscious of local culture: depending on where you are going, you may want to take clothing to cover your shoulders, knees, tattoos, etc.
My friend Florian and I wearing matching sun hoodies on a hot steep hike up Akamina Ridge, Canada
A/C in hot countries – I’ve taken many a bus ride and been in many a hostel in hot, humid countries where the A/C blasts out like you are in a freezer. Despite being somewhere warm, you may find yourself staying somewhere where this is the case, so bear in mind that some warm layers for emergencies may be a good idea. Also, many hot countries can get cool at night.
Hoodies – I am a big fan of having a hoodie to wear for sleeping in on planes and buses – popping my hood up and nodding off. I am also a huge fan of really light-weight, breathable hoodies to keep the sun off you. You can combine these ‘sun hoodies’ with a baseball cap and keep out of direct sunlight.
Check out my Brand Discounts page for travel clothing discounts.
Bottoms (Clothing)
Take a few options – I never take jeans travelling and most seasoned travellers agree with me on this one. They look cool, but they don’t keep you particularly warm, they don’t keep you cool either, and they take a long time to dry; stylish, yes, practical no.
I often take thin, gym-like shorts which dry quickly and roll up incredibly small. For my trousers, I often take a pair of chinos – they are comfy and can be used for smart or casual styles. I also take a pair of thin trousers to hike in.
Underwear and Socks
When it comes to socks, I usually take some trainer socks, regular socks and a pair or two of good merino hiking socks. Merino is amazing and I am a big fan! It is a type of natural sheep’s wool which I wear all the time: it regulates your temperature really well and repels odours as well, making it really popular with outdoor enthusiasts. If you would like to shop merino products, you can find discounts via my Discounted Brands page.
Me a thin buff next to a crevasse on Saskatchewan Glacier, Canadian Rockies
Buff
Buffs are the best! They sometimes have different names with ‘Buff’ being a brand name a bit like ‘hoover’. They are elastic scarves in a connected circle which pull easily over your head to cover your neck. They are incredibly small, dry quickly and are affordable. They are great in different climates and I have used them:
- To provide extra warmth, prevent cold breezes from getting to my neck and reduce draughts down my top
- Keeping my nose, month etc warm (although when you pull it up over your mouth, breathing can make it a bit moist but it’s better than being cold)
- Keeping dirt, sand, etc. from your mouth and nose; great in dry, hot places.
- Keeping the sun off your neck and preventing burns.
They are a must-buy for travellers in my opiion. They are tiny, so they take up no space and are super handy when you need one. Plus, they are often harder to get your hands on in many countries, so you’re best off buying one before you go. They’re also available in a range of colours.
Carabiners
Buying a small pack of carabiners can be really handy to attach things like footwear to the outside of my backpack. I have also used them to repair things quickly on the go. Another must-buy for me before a trip!
Hiking Gear
I love hiking. If you aren’t doing anything too strenuous, then you can probably get away with normal light-weight, breathable clothing and good footwear. If you want to do it more often, however, I take the following:
- Hiking boots – As discussed above under ‘footwear’.
- Hiking socks – I am a big fan of merino (see below under ‘merino’ in this list for more information.
- Bottoms – I have thick, lightweight trousers for hiking in. Try to get some with zip pockets; there is nothing more annoying than losing your phone on a long hike or horse trek and having to retrace your steps to find it! I also pack waterproof trousers, they are small and have been great during my time hiking, but even more so when I have been on motorbikes and horseback, when your thighs can get soaked. They do take up more space and are more expensive, so it depends on where you are going if you think they are worthwhile. I also take thin gym-like shorts for hiking in; they take up barely any space and are lightweight.
- Tops – I take thin, breathable hiking tops. I take:
- 1 x short-sleeve top: I can use this for sun protection while swimming as well as most hikes. It also takes up barely any space and weight.
- 1 x light-weight hoody: I used to take a long-sleeve hiking top on my travels to keep the wind and sun off my arms, but I am now a recent convert to light-weight, breathable hoodies. They keep the cold winds off direct-skin contact and offer amazing sun protection when combined with a cap.
- 1 x Microfleece: These thin but warm fleeces dry quickly, are warm and pack down to a relatively small size. I like the ones with a collar and with long sleeves with thumb holes, which pull over the palms of your hands for extra warmth.
- Buff: As discussed above. One of the best purchases you will ever make!
- Waterproof Jacket: As discussed above under ‘Tops’.
- Waterproof trousers: As discussed above under ‘Bottoms’.
- Gloves – I carry two pairs, some thin and breathable to keep the wind off me and some thicker and waterproof. Ultimately, it depends on the climate you are going to, though, as to what you need.
- Compression Dry bag – I often take a compression dry bag to put anything in which I don’t want to get wet. I like the ones with multiple straps, which can make things like my thermals take up very little space. Mine is made by Sea to Summit.
- Rucksack – Waterproof cover – Ensure you have a waterproof cover for your bag should you get a downpour.
- Thermals – I always take them on hikes in case I come into bother and get stuck somewhere for the night. Although I rarely use them, they fold up so small and take up so little space that I always bring them. I have merino thermals, which I love.
- Spikes – If you are hiking in snowy or icy conditions, you may want pull-over spikes for your shoes. They work really well. For mountaineering, you may often want full crampons with front-facing spikes; however, for easier trips, they can work well.
- Survival Bag – A specially-made but bin-bag-like survival bag can offer great emergency shelter. They will not keep you overly warm in themselves, but will do so indirectly by being waterproof and windproof. They are incredibly small and lightweight for the benefits they bring, and I always take one, should I get injured and need to wait for rescue.
- Other items: Check the list above for other items not listed under this section, such as: a buff, mosquito spray, suncream, sunglasses, toilet paper in a ziploc bag, water bottle, first aid kit, headtorch, Lifestraw, etc., which I recommend for all hikers. You will also want to consider other typical hiking items such as a compass, whistle, GPS, maps, etc.
Disclaimer – Hike at your own risk! Do your own preparation, bring the right equipment for your hike, stay together in groups, let people know where you are and stay safe out there!
Discounts – You can find discounts for top outdoor brands on my Brand Discount page.
Brand Discounts
Merino
Not an item per se, but I wanted to include some mention of Merino because it’s a wonder material. Merino wool comes from merino sheep, originally from Spain. You will find lots of them in New Zealand and also some in Australia and Canada. I love it because it’s natural, comfortable, great for regulating temperature (rarely makes you too hot or too cold) and naturally breathable. In very hot and humid countries, you’ll still sweat loads, so maybe not great for them (let’s be honest, no clothes are really suited for hot and humid climates), but dry heat and any other weather is amazing. Merino socks for hiking are, and I also have merino thermals and a T-shirt. Food for thought, especially if you can get some for a baa-rgain price.
Check out my Brand Discounts Page to find discounted Merino clothing.
Headphones
I take in-ear headphones. Larger ones are quite bulky, but if you love your music and want to bring them, that’s up to you. In-ear headphones are great for using on public transport and also for drowning out the noise of a snorer in a hostel if you get unlucky with your doormates.
Books
I love reading while travelling. Taking physical books can be bulky, so one at a time is the way to go. There are also plenty of hostels where you can do book swaps when you’re there and of course, you can swap directly with other travellers. Kindles can be a good way to save weight, and I’m a huge fan of Audiobooks and podcasts too.
For my recommendations for books to read while travelling, check out my Books page.
If you would like something to listen to on your travels, you can also check out my podcast.
Bum Bag (Fanny Pack)
You may want to take a ‘bum bag’ (or ‘fanny pack’ for my North American friends) to keep your valuables safe. Some people also take a spare wallet with them, should they be robbed while keeping their main wallet safe somewhere else. I like the bum bags which aren’t too bulky and are more discreet.
Me with my Garmin inReach Mini 2 GPS/SOS device attached to my rucksack. With my friend Barney outside a large ice cave. Saskatchewan Glacier, Canadian Rockies.
GPS Tracker
For most backpackers, you won’t need a GPS locator. Many parts of the world, even in less-developed countries, have good phone signals, so if you are going to the usual backpacking spots in south-east Asia or most parts of Europe, you can easily contact emergency services and use maps via your mobile phone. If you do plan on going to areas of poor phone reception (cell service), then you can consider getting GPS trackers. Good examples include remote parts of Australia, Canada and Africa. If you are on a guided tour for remote areas, however, it’s likely your guide will have some emergency procedures in place; don’t count on this, though and check with your tour provider.
I do have a GPS device and use a Garmin inReach Mini 2, but I am a rather adventurous fellow and it suits my needs.
Check out my Brand Discounts page to save on Garmin GPS devices.
You can also check out my blog article with more information on GPS devices on my blog page or by following the link below.
Having my meal in my Jetboil MiniMo in Kananaskis, Canada.
Jetboil
If you are considering doing a lot of camping, then I recommend looking into the brand Jetboil. They do great, lightweight, fuel-efficient camping stoves. They aren’t the cheapest, but I really think they’re worth it. The vast majority of travellers will not need a camping stove at all on their trip; however, if you do plan lots of camping adventures, they are a great option. Head on over to my Brand Discounts page if you are interested in the brand.
The view from my MSR tent as I awoke after camping on a beach in Hawaii, USA.
Tents
Like a Jetboil, I would only recommend bringing a tent if you know you will be doing lots of camping, they are just more weight, bulk and expense. If you are a hardcore traveller, however, who is looking to take your own tent, then be sure to check out my Brand Discounts page. I have a one-man MSR tent, and it has been amazing!
Cameras and Laptops
When I first went backpacking, I took a decent Canon camera with me and a laptop. My theory was that I wanted good photos of my travels to frame and put on my wall at home (when I finally got one) and the laptop would help me edit photos and maybe make some videos while I travelled. I also had a project I was working on, which I needed the laptop for at the time.
Now that I have more experience, I would strongly advise against taking a camera and laptop in most cases…
The reason why I am against taking laptops and cameras for most travellers is because:
Cameras:
- Space – Although some cameras can be lightweight, they do take up space and given how fragile they are, you wouldn’t want to ram them into an overloaded backpack. They also take up more space and weight than you realise because you typically have charging cables specific to the camera.
- Cost – I found that given my camera’s expense, I was always paranoid about where I took it and where I left it.
- Accessibility – I was worried that by wearing it and keeping it to hand, I stood out as a tourist and a target for thieves and scams (although I saw no evidence of this on my travels). I also found that cameras can take time to get out, and for me, the best moments are spontaneous, so you often can’t capture those in time.
Laptops:
- As with cameras, they can take up space and some of the more powerful ones do add a fair bit of weight. As with cameras, you end up carrying yet more charging cables, which are only useful to your laptop; unlike with USB-C cables, for example, which are more versatile and smaller.
- Cost – As with my camera, I found that given its expense and the photos, etc., stored there, I was always paranoid about where I took it and where I left it.
Laptop summary – There are, of course, some times when you will find laptops beneficial. If you work remotely, chances are you will need a laptop. Applying for a visa and planning can also be nicer on a laptop. When I got my phone pickpocketed in Delhi, I also found that having a laptop to email people on, etc., was useful, although you can just borrow someone’s phone or buy a cheap one to get you through the basics normally too (which I ended up doing). Ultimately, though, unless you need a camera for work, I personally think they are not worth bringing with you; there is very little which you can’t do on a smartphone nowadays.
Me swimming with a Manta Ray. Nusa Penida, Indonesia
Camera summary – Unless you are really passionate about photography, I personally think that getting a good phone camera has been what I appreciate more. Phone cameras are now really good, easy to use and easy to share photos from with little post-photography faff afterwards. I would advise that you back up your photos, though in case your phone is lost or stolen. Some options, like GoPros, can be great for capturing dynamic moments, especially those of the underwater world. These are small too and get a lot of positive feedback. Check out my Brand Discounts page to check for current deals. When I have met people abroad, they often have better cameras than me and I am often cheeky and ask them to share their photos with me – often my photos are of other people and not myself anyway and vice versa.
Make your own decision on how important these are to you, but for me, I started travelling with both, and I don’t take either on my travels if that’s any help to you!
Make your own decision on how important these are to you, but for me, I started travelling with both, and I don’t take either on my travels if that’s any help to you!
Links below are for my Brand Discounts page, where you may find links and discounts on places where you can buy a GoPro; however, if you find them a bit beyond your price point, you can find a link to a budget version akin to a GoPro below, which also shoots underwater footage.
Bonus Tips
Bonus Tip One – Consider taking a small Ziploc bag with some toilet paper in it on your travels for emergencies.
Bonus Tip Two – You don’t need to fill your bag! If you have spare space, good! This means you don’t have to spend as long packing everything, particularly when you move from place to place and also gives you a place to pick up bits and bobs on your travels if you need. Most essentials you can get abroad anyway, so don’t panic if you forget something!
I hope that you have found this list useful. Most importantly, don’t stress! Worst-case scenario, if you forget something, then nine times out of ten you can buy it or something similar while you are travelleing!
More Advice
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Andy Argo
Title image: Me riding a Dayun motorbike on a motorbike and camping trip in central Mongolia.