There’s nothing more liberating that kissing goodbye to the daily grind and embarking on a backpacking adventure. However, if you’re to enjoy your experiences overseas, it’s important that you plan your trip carefully. For example, before you set off on your travels, it’s a good idea to create a packing checklist so that you don’t forget any of the backpacking essentials.
Here is a rundown of some of the most important belongings you’ll need when you’re away from home.
What are the Backpacking Essentials?
Bags
A good backpack should be first on your backpacking essentials shopping list. This must be big enough to fit all the items you’ll need, but not so large that it’s uncomfortable to carry around. Ideally, it should be suitable for carry-on luggage, and fit you well. This will save you time and hassle when you’re passing through airports. Your bag should also be waterproof.
As well as your backpack, remember to take some clear zip lock bags. You’ll need these items to take any liquids through airport security. You can also use them to stop bottles leaking in your luggage. No one wants leaking bottles – what a mess!
Documents
Of course, you won’t get far on your adventures if you don’t have your passport, travel tickets and any visas you need. You might also require vaccination certificates. If you have a student ID, take this as well. It could save you lots of cash on the road. It’s a good idea to take a list of emergency contacts numbers too. These aren’t just backpacking essentials, but really, travel essentials.
Health
You’ll also have to think about safeguarding your health abroad. This means you’ll need any personal medication, painkillers and at least a basic first aid kit. Depending on where you’re going, you might also want to pack insect repellent, sunscreen and hand sanitizer. Sickness tablets, rehydration sachets and water purification tablets may be important too. A great first aid kit should be among your backpacking essentials, as you never know what you’ll encounter.
Cosmetics
On a related point, your cosmetics bag should contain shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush. It should also feature wet wipes in case you can’t shower, a razor, a hairbrush and some toilet paper.
Technology
Some technology is a must these days. You might want to take a decent camera to make sure you snap some great photos. An MP3 player is also handy, and you may want to take a smartphone, tablet or travel laptop. In the past, it was important to pack one or two good guidebooks. However, you can save space in your luggage by using these devices to check out websites like Traveller.com.au. This is a convenient way to access travel information on the road.
Don’t forget your chargers though otherwise all this technology will be useless! Not that I’ve ever forgotten my chargers. Oh, wait. Yes I have. Another great backpacking essential is an external battery. This holds a charge which allows you to power up your other devices when they run low. An external battery is about the size of a cigarette lighter and weighs just a few ounces.
Clothes
You’ll have to prioritize when it comes to clothing. By hand washing your garments while you’re away, you can get by on a relatively small number items. However, a few pairs of underwear are a must and you should also take some waterproof items. The exact garments you need will depend on the climates of the countries you’re traveling to. If you do happen to stay in a hotel, many have guest laundry facilities. It may be worth the little splurge once in a while.
If you’re planning to do a lot of walking, it’s worth taking a decent pair of boots. To save space in your backpack, wear these when you’re en route.
So that you don’t forget any of these backpacking essentials, it’s a good idea to create a checklist and to run through this before you set off.
Have you gone backpacking? What are your backpacking essentials?
photo credit: Al_HikesAZ Jason Priem Mat Honan