PACKING

Packing List

Gear is one of the most important parts of exploring and can make or break a trip. The main considerations include space, weight, and cost. Having traveled at all extremes—small, large, light, heavy, cheap, expensive—I’ve compiled a list of gear that will be effective for most people. The gear I recommend is budget-friendly, without sacrificing quality, and has worked well for me during my expeditions. In terms of wearables, I like to bring cheap, multifunctional, and off-brand items. Anything you can do to make yourself less of a target for theft is a good idea. Avoid big-name brands and flashy colors, unless they’re normal for the area you’re visiting. I like to familiarize myself with what locals wear and pack accordingly.

As far as packing goes, keep your most-used gear near the top of your bag and your least-used gear near the bottom. Chargers, snacks, and toiletries should be accessible, while shoes, clothes, and towels can be near the bottom. The number of clothing items in the following list assumes you will be doing laundry on a weekly basis at a laundromat or equivalent. I’m a huge advocate of packing light (more on why later).

• 35-55L Backpack

  • If you invest in one piece of quality gear, make it a decent backpack. The ideal size for lightweight travel is 35-45L, while the ideal size for midweight travel is 45-55L. Most airline carry-ons max out around 50L, although I own a 55L bag and have never had any trouble getting it into the overhead bin (under-seat storage is a bit tighter). My favorite brand is Osprey, as they offer free repairs for any reason for life. I recommend the Farpoint 40 or the Farpoint 55 for men, and the Fairview 40 or Fairview 55 for women.

• 15-30L Daypack

  • Unless you want to lug around all of your belongings on a daily basis, you’re going to want a daypack. I like ultra-packable, stuff packs like this 18L bag from Osprey. It packs down super small into its own storage pocket. Leave your large items in a hostel locker and only bring the essentials in your daypack.

• Headlamp

  • A headlamp is equally useful in the wilderness as it is in a hostel. While staying in dormitory-style rooms, the lights are usually turned off between 11:00PM and 8:00AM. Realistically, you have three options: turn the lights back on and piss everyone off, struggle to find whatever you need with cellphone light, or invest in a headlamp and operate normally. As an added benefit over flashlights or lanterns, headlamps allow you to use both hands freely. I own and recommend Black Diamond headlamps, specifically the Cosmo (300 lumens), Spot (350 lumens), and Storm (400 lumens).

• Travel cubes

  • Travel cubes are truly essential for a pleasant backpacking experience. They’re inexpensive, effective, and versatile. I use mine to separate gear from wearables, clean clothes from dirty clothes, and large items from small items. Check out this six-pack bestseller from Bagail that’s trusted by over 10,000 travelers. 

• Microfiber towel

  • A quality microfiber towel will absolutely upgrade your adventure experience. They’re packable, highly absorbent, lightweight, and dry faster than normal towels. I use mine at hostels, beaches, lakes, and anywhere else there might be water. I recommend getting one that’s at least 30x60in (XL) for maximum comfort. Rainleaf makes an excellent microfiber towel trusted by over 10,000 people. Be careful not to use it near dry grass or loose material as microfiber towels are more prone to static electricity and will grab small objects.

• Dry bag

  • A dry bag is a necessity if you’re visiting a wet area or participating in water sports of any kind. This 20L bag from Earth Pak is sure to keep all of your valuables dry even in the harshest conditions.

• Sunglasses

  • Sunglasses are essential but can be expensive to replace. I recommend finding something cheap for your adventures like this unisex pair from Kaliyadi. A decent case, while optional, will protect your glasses from getting crushed.

• Water shoes

  • As somewhat of a germaphobe, I need a quality pair of water shoes for showering away from home. It also doesn’t hurt to have a pair of shoes you can use while at the beach, crossing a river, or just relaxing. I currently own two pairs (but would like to downsize): Chacos for adventures and synthetic slides for showering. However, to combine the best features of each, I would aim for inexpensive Crocs, which I recently rediscovered through a friend. These versatile shoes dry quickly, are easy to clean, and have adjustable straps for light activity.

• Active shoes

  • Unless you’re renting a car, expect to do tons of walking while traveling. A cushioned pair of trail running shoes work for a variety of activities. I recommend a grippy outsole for inclement weather, a lightweight midsole for walking, and a mesh upper for breathability. I’ve had good luck with Asics, and recommend these trail runners for men and these trail runners for women.

• Casual shoes

  • Casual shoe requirements and preferences are obviously going to vary by person. That said, you’re looking for something comfortable you can wear for hours on end. I like the Camden Sneakers from Sketchers (men) or the Ultrarange Rapidweld from Vans (unisex). Both are a bit expensive but offer great support and durability. Another option is canvas-style shoes, but they might be less supportive (traditional Vans, Converse, Tom’s, etc.).

• Eight shirts

  • In order to pack light, consider bringing multi-use, versatile clothing. For example, swimwear that doubles as stylish shorts, exercise clothing that works for casual use, and beach shoes that work for showering. With shirts specifically, I highly recommend the brand 32 Degrees, as they produce affordable, high-quality clothing while keeping branding to a minimum. Their Crew T-Shirts for men and Scoop Tees for women are the most comfortable shirts my girlfriend and I have ever owned.

• Warm jacket

  • Depending on where you’re going, you’ll likely need a decent jacket. I’ve had excellent luck with hooded softshell jackets—they’re warm, yet breathable, and provide protection from the wind, rain, and snow. Consider these functional designs for men and for women.

• Rainproof gear

  • I typically only bring a rain jacket, rolling it up into its own hood to save space (although rain pants might be helpful). It’s important to find one advertised as waterproof, not water-resistant or water-repellant. Again, avoid expensive or flashy name brands as you will paint yourself as a target for theft. Check out these highly-rated, budget alternatives from OTU for men and LDA for women.

• Three pants

  • Everyone has different pants preferences, but some travel-specific features to look for are: zippered pockets to ward off thieves, synthetic fabric for quick dry-times, and stretchiness for ease of movement. I aim for one pair of multiuse pants (men / women), one pair of athletic pants (men / women), and one pair of nicer pants for a night out (men / women). As an alternative to nice pants for ladies, consider a simple black dress with pockets for extra versatility.

• Two shorts

  • Shorts are especially important in hotter climates and both pairs should serve a different function. One could be for day trips, adventures, and city excursions (men / women), while one could be for athletics, working out, or lounging around (men / women). No matter your wardrobe, prioritize versatility and you’ll be set. 

• Two bras

  • I can’t personally recommend any brands here, but I suggest packing one athletic-style bra and one for casual wear. The goal is to do laundry on a weekly basis, so packing enough for a week is essential. My girlfriend recommends this versatile sports bra and this comfortable wire-free bra.  

• Eight underwear

  • Not all underwear is created equal. However, whatever you’re comfortable with is what you should wear. I prefer breathable, athletic-style, boxer briefs for travel.

• Eight socks

  • The socks you bring should also be comfortable and breathable. A common phrase in Alaska is that ‘cotton kills’ in the backcountry due to the amount of water it absorbs. I opt for a mix of synthetic socks and wool socks because of their moisture-wicking properties.

• Belt

  • Most belts will work fine, although there are a few improvements you can make for convenience. Consider finding a reversible belt (two colors) with no metal buckle like this one from M-Tac. You’ll face less of a hassle at the airport and have two styles for the price of one.

• Swimwear

  • Continuing with the theme of versatility, I recommend these multi-use swim trunks for men and these boardshorts for women. Both have two open side pockets and a closeable back pocket, making them perfect for casual wear.

• Baseball cap

  • A baseball cap is something you forget about until you need it. I love this unbranded, faded-color cap from Edoneery. 

• Travel belt

  • A travel belt is one of the best investments in safety you can make while abroad. I own a pouch-style belt, although there are some cash-only belts on the market. The reason I like the pouch style is it allows you to carry a passport, credit cards, documents, cash, etc. The belt sits flat underneath your waistline and can’t be seen by others.

• Wallet

  • The never-ending debate between trifold, bifold, and clip wallets rages on, but whatever you can comfortably fit in a pocket will work. Only bring what’s necessary and make sure to have a contingency plan. For example, if you’re carrying $200 USD and two credit cards, split it evenly between your wallet and travel belt. Trips won’t go horribly wrong 99% of the time but be prepared for the 1%.

• Purse

  • The same concepts applied to a wallet should be applied to a purse. Only bring what you can afford to lose and make use of a travel belt. Consider something simple and adventure-specific, like this purse from Travelon. 

• Passport

  • Easy to forget, but a necessity for international trips. Verify that it's not expired or expiring when planning your vacation. I keep mine almost exclusively in a travel belt (pictured).

• Credit / debit cards

  • Try to bring as few as possible. I always have two, one in my travel belt and one in my wallet. Consider credit cards that reward you with airline miles or accounts that waive foreign ATM fees.

• ID card

  • It’s always a good idea to have your ID on you, especially if you’re going somewhere it wouldn’t be practical to bring your passport.

• Earbuds

  • The same safety advice goes for technology: don’t use flashy, expensive brands while abroad. I recommend wearing a pair of inexpensive, wired earbuds. While headphones and other over-the-ear listening devices might work, they attract unwanted attention.

• Smartphone

  • A smartphone is a valuable tool that has revolutionized backpacking. Any brand will work (I’m partial to iPhone), although consider getting it unlocked before you travel abroad in order to use local sim cards. Phones usually have to be paid off before you can unlock them through your carrier.

• Travel adapter

  • Travel adapters come in all shapes in sizes depending on your needs. I like these multi-adapters that work for many different countries. Similar to chargers, these are pretty easy to find in an airport.

• Portable charger

  • A portable charger is a rechargeable battery used to charge small devices. They are extremely convenient as they allow you to be away from wall power for extended periods of time. Unfortunately, most lithium batteries aren’t allowed on airplanes, meaning you will have to pick one up once you arrive at your destination. I would only recommend this for longer trips.

• Charger

  • Easy to forget, but easy to replace. If you happen to leave yours behind make sure to buy one on the way out of the airport.

• Laundry detergent

  • If you pack light like me, you’re going to have to do laundry on a weekly basis. I can usually fit all my clothes into one load and finish a wash / dry cycle in an hour (I wash all colors together, sue me). One amazing benefit of bringing versatile, quick-dry clothing is it dries within a few minutes in the dryer. Consider bringing a few Tide Pods in a Ziploc bag or buy travel-sized pouches.

• Toiletries

  • Less is more. Bring the essentials, but leave the infrequently used items behind. If you ever need something, you’ll likely be able to find it at a local store (although probably not the brand you’re used to). Flexibility is key, people! 

• Sunscreen

  • Personally, I burn easily and sunscreen is a must for me. I use a minimum of SPF 30 waterproof sunscreen. Be aware that many sunscreens contain oxybenzone which can damage marine environments, so consider an alternative like this one from TropicSport (water-resistant) or this one from Sun Bum (moisturizing).

• Allergy meds

  • Somehow I get allergies no matter where I go. Fexofenadine is a great, non-drowsy medication I take everywhere. If you’re backpacking somewhere you don’t speak the local language, it can be hard to read labels and find the medicine you need, so always bring a bit more than you need.

• Laundry bag

  • Depending on your needs, this could be a plastic bag, a mesh sack, or a compartment in your bag. Whatever you decide, find a way to separate clean clothes from dirty clothes.

• Shoe bag

  • Similar to a laundry bag, you’re going to want something to separate your dirty shoes from the rest of your belongings. Something as simple as a plastic grocery bag or a drawstring cinch bag will do the trick, although they make shoe-specific bags too.

• Sanitary products

  • While tampons and pads are readily available in stores across the world, it pays to be prepared. I can’t personally recommend any products, but I’ve heard from my girlfriend that some work better than others while traveling.

• Water filter

  • I recommend doing some research on the water quality of the country you plan on visiting as different water filters have different applications. This mini water filter from Sawyer is excellent for protecting you from microbes and bacteria, while this Epic Filter can help filter out contaminants. That said, most places have bottled water readily available.

• First aid kit

  • It’s a good habit to be prepared for a wide variety of situations. Bandaids, alcohol wipes, tweezers, gauze, and burn cream (full kit) are all examples of safety gear that might come in handy on a trip. I also strongly recommend having some generic cold medicine on you, as it can be hard to find in a foreign country due to language barriers.

• Emergency SOS

  • Depending on your needs, this can be as cheap as an emergency whistle or signal mirrors, and as expensive as a satellite phone or locator beacon.

• Emergency food

  • Emergency food can be anything from calorie-dense bars to dehydrated meal packs. Having something to munch on in between meals is an easy way to improve your quality of life.

• Two pens

  • Essential for long customs lines (where there are one or two communal pens), writing in a notebook, marking a paper map, etc. I once forgot mine and had to awkwardly ask a fellow passenger for theirs (gasp!).

• Book

  • This one is pretty self-explanatory. My favorite books are Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman, One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and Daytripper by Gabriel Ba and Fabio Moon.

So, why pack light? I pack light for portability, security, and endurance. Having lugged around an 80L pack for two weeks in Korea and Japan, I can tell you it sucks. My bag took up an extra seat on packed buses, painted me as a target for theft (thankfully nothing happened), and gave me serious back pain. I like knowing exactly what I have and not having to keep track of extra belongings. Packing light makes you look less like a tourist, allows you to fit your bag in hostel lockers, and saves you from checked baggage fees.

The gear list I’ve compiled is intentionally comprehensive and should be modified based on the trip (for example, I will leave / bring a water filter, portable charger, and dry bag, depending on the location). However, I normally fit everything listed in a 40L bag with room to spare. Having a little space left over is important because you will likely want to bring back some souvenirs for yourself, friends, or family.

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