What I bring in my bag has changed a lot over the years. Most of that change relates to the fact that I have a lot of gear related to the blog, but it also reflects that I’ve learned a lot about packaging since my first visit to the road in 2006.
I have learned a variety of packaging techniques over the years. I traveled big duffel bags, 60L packs, 30L packs, carry-ons and everything in between. I did it all, and in all seasons.
And today, I want to share that knowledge with you, so you can become a better packer.
answer?
As little as possible.
Packing lights are clichés, but they have a lot of truth to it. The more I travel, the more I realize I don’t need more. Everything I need fits in now 1 backpack (For my many years of recommendations for testing backpacks, Click here for my top travel backpack.
I like to write down everything I think I need before going and cut it in half. I always ask myself, “Do you use this enough to justify my weight?”
In most cases, the answer is no.
I only take the essentials and if I really need something I didn’t bring, I buy it on the road. Finding medicines, clothes, or umbrellas from abroad is not that difficult.
They also stick to the same climate while traveling, making sure they don’t have to carry different types of clothes. I don’t want to hug my sweater Thailand! However, plans may change and if that happens, buy a light jacket or sweater. Hold it until it becomes a burden and pass it on.
Also, you can I like to wash overseas and carry enough clothes for 7-10 days, and then do the laundry before repeating it. When you can wash what you have, you don’t need to bring a lot of things.
in the case of length Do you answer what you should pack? Now, below is my suggested packing list, which you need to adjust to your needs.
(Note: This focuses on travelling to non-winter climates. If you are heading to a cold place, you will need to adjust accordingly. )
1. Gear
Check out other gear recommendations This post on the best travel equipment.
2. clothes
- 5 T-shirts
- 1 long sleeve shirt
- One pair of jeans (it’s not heavy and dry easily, but I wear them a lot – a good option is khaki)
- A pair of shorts
- 7 pairs of underwear
- 1 bathing suit
- Pair of flip-flops
- 1 pair of sneakers
- 8 pairs of socks (I always lose socks so take the extra! Don’t know where they’re going?)
- A pair of dress shoes (this depends on destination. I’ll do this more Australia and Europe And not so much anywhere else. )
- 1 dress shirt (to go to a great place in the evening)
Note: I’m a huge fan of Unbound Merino for clothes. You can see the reviews here.
3. Toiletries
- One toothbrush
- Toothpaste tube
- Dental floss packaging
- deodorant
- 1 Razor
- Small bottle of shampoo
- Small bottle of shower gel
- 1 Towel (Always pack a towel!)
4. Small medical kit
- band aid
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Antibacterial cream
- Eye drops
- Tylenol
- Hand sanitizer
For more information about the first aid kit, please see Check out this detailed post on how to make it for your destination.
5. others
Special tips: I’m buying a small backpack So you won’t be tempted to overpack. We unconsciously like to fill in empty spaces, so if we have a large bag, we are more likely to overpack it to avoid wasting any space. Getting a small backpack forces you to only take essentials. It’s a mind trick that works very well!
This list discovered that it wanted nothing from me. I’d say many of you read this and say, “But what about X?” Or “You really don’t need a Y.” Well, it works for you and this list works for me. Adjust the list to suit your trip.
I am writing this post. Not because I think there’s one best way to stuff, but answer repeated questions about what I pack and why. This is my list and suits my “Chasing the Summer, Living in a Hostel” lifestyle.
But the real point I want to emphasize is that you really don’t need much when you travel. You don’t need as much as you think.
Next Steps
How to Travel the World for $75 a day
my New York Times Travel bestselling books teach you how to master the art of travel, saving you money, always finding deals, and giving you a deeper travel experience. What the BBC called “Budget Travelers’ Bible” is your A-to-Z Plan Guide.
Book your trip: Logistic Tips and Tricks
Book your flight
Find cheap flights to use Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine as I search for websites and airlines all over the world.
Book your accommodation
Hostels can be booked HOSTELWORLD. Please use if you want to stay somewhere other than the hostel Booking.com We consistently return the cheapest prices for guest houses and hotels.
Don’t forget to have travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you from illness, injuries, theft and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case something goes wrong. I have had to use it many times in the past, so I will not travel without it. Here are my favourite companies that provide the best service and value:
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Do I need a car rental?
Find the car This is an international rental car website that is budget friendly. No matter where you are heading, they will be able to find the best, and cheapest rentals for your trip!
Need help finding activities for your trip?
Get the guide It is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip the Line tickets, private guides and more.
Ready to book a trip?
Please check me Resource Page For the perfect company to use when you travel. List everything you use while traveling. They are the best in the class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
