The Definitive Checklist for Backpackers: Things Every Traveler Needs
Packing for a big trip often causes dilemmas. Should I take a large tube of toothpaste to last the trip? How many pairs of pants to wear? Should I invest in ventilated underwear? It is too easy to worry about your packing list – be selective and remember that you can buy most things while you are away.
To help you, we have prepared a list of essential elements – it is not exhaustive (obviously, do not forget your passport, tickets, money and credit cards too), but these are elements for which you will be truly grateful….
- Earplugs
Treasure these little beauties: you’ll be worshiping their inventor every time you face a sleepless night, like when you inadvertently choose to stay at the party hotel next to the mosque on a main cruise during a party.
- Eye mask
The humble eye mask is at the forefront in the battle to sleep – a barrier to that aggressive first ray of tropical sun that crosses the faint curtains and receives a direct blow to the retina.
- Personal GPS Tracker
No matter whether it is a trip in big city or a hiking in the mountain, it is essential to carry personal GPS trackers for you and your team member. With personal tracking devices, everyone can share real-time location on the phone app even when there’s no cellular service. Anyone encounters emergency can send SOS signals to others. GoFindMe is one of the best GPS tracking device for personal use. The battery lasts as long as 72 hours, and tracking range can reach up to 5 kilometers. What’s more, there’ s no monthly fee for this tracking device.
- Bags of All Kinds
Pack your clothes in cloth bags inside your backpack and avoid being the irritating thief in a shared bedroom. If you are going to a humid climate, cover the inside of your backpack with a garbage bag to keep your belongings dry. Bring replacement plastic bags for your dirty clothes and a few bags of ziplock food for a good measure.
- A Sarong, Even For Men
A simple piece of cloth with many functions: it can be used as a skirt or as a shawl to protect yourself from the burning sun or to visit religious places; It can also be used as a sheet in hot weather; and can be used as a towel (quick dry) or to cover after a shower or on the beach.
- Flip Flops or Waterproof Sandals
These simple and lightweight shoes will keep your feet protected when you have to shower in a grubby cubicle.
- Walking shoes
If you are going to leave for a few months and plan to go trekking, do not wear walking boots. In hot weather, you will not want to use them and they are heavy to carry. Instead, opt for lighter walking shoes that have a strong sole. Although they do not offer the ankle support provided by the boots, it is a fair compromise for something you will not wear so often.
>> Also check, How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes – Hiking Shoes Buying Guide and FAQs
- Travel Adapter
Be sure to buy at least one adapter before leaving home, as it can be difficult to find the right type once you are abroad. Get one with multiple plugs and preferably a USB port too.
- A Mobile Phone
If you have an unlocked phone, buy a local SIM card when you arrive in a new country to enjoy local rates. Smartphones can be invaluable – in addition to the obvious benefits of communication, you can pre-load street maps while you still have Wi-Fi. Most also have a series of travel gadgets, such as an alarm clock and a compass, and there are practical applications, such as currency converter and offline language dictionaries.
- Portable Charger
This little gem could save the day if your phone’s battery needs a boost while you’re away.
- Cervical Cushion
Get rid of embarrassing head movements and sore necks on night flights and on coach trips. Buy a good quality inflatable cushion that is packed flat.
- First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit should include oral rehydration salts, plasters, water purification tablets, antiseptic cream, mosquito repellent, pain relievers such as ibuprofen and, in short, Imodium.
- Sewing Kit
Don’t underestimate this – there will be times when it will be vital, including needle, pins, thread in various colors and safety pins. Also include some rope, which can be used in many ways, for example as a washing line or when one of the shoelaces is broken.
- Padlock
Many hostels offer a closet for your valuables, but you have to bring your own lock. It is also advisable to close the bag in crowded places where pickpockets are active. Look for a combination lock instead of a locked one, as the keys may be lost.
- Headlamp
In addition to the obvious uses in camping trips and night walks, a headlamp is useful if you want to read when others are trying to sleep, leaving your hands free to turn the pages.
- Waterproof Pants
Don’t be too vain to wear waterproof pants on rainy days – they will keep you comfortable and dry, instead of wallowing in the soaked bottom misery. Choose breathable fabrics to avoid getting wet inside.
