Amy Reynolds Being on the road for months at a time brings about a unique set of challenges which you wouldn’t face on a typically trip. Here are some products you should take backpacking for a smooth, stress-free experience.
Reliable backpack
This one’s obvious. Your backpack will hold absolutely everything you need for the duration of your travels, making it possibly the most important purchase you will make in preparation for your trip. Some key features to look out for are comfort, durability, practicality, and functionality. If you are wanting to fly with only carry-on luggage, ensure you check your airline’s size requirements before buying your bag to make sure its dimensions comply.
Comfortable walking shoes
While you should try to ensure that everything you pack is comfortable, shoes are key as travelling usually involves lots of walking. Investing in high-quality, cushioned footwear will save you from blistering and pain. Consider your itinerary to determine whether you should opt for extra features like a grippier outer sole or waterproofing.
Other items
If you’re taking the traditional backpacking route of working your way through hostels, there are some often missed items which are incredibly useful. These include:
- Laundry items: this may include travel detergent sheets, mesh bags to ensure delicates are not ruined in a machine cycle, and a portable washing line to dry your clothes. In general, it is good principle to opt for fast-drying fabrics to expedite this process.
- Containers and cutlery: many hostels have communal kitchens, which are an excellent way to save on food costs. However, these savings can be diminished or negated if you’re ditching your leftovers each time you move cities. Bringing a small Tupperware container and a reusable plastic cutlery set solves this issue, and makes prepping lunches for busy sightseeing days a breeze.
- Rain protection: while most travellers will remember to bring a rain jacket or umbrella, bag covers are often omitted from packing lists. While most backpacks will have some level of water resistance against light rain, getting caught in a downpour with all of your fresh clothes soaked through is never a fun time.
- Certified copies of your identity documents (physical or digital): this is an incredibly underrated tip. When you’re away for an extended period, the risk of losing or damaging your passport becomes higher. Even if you’re responsible with your belongings, theft often occurs in touristy areas. While it doesn’t quite measure up to an original document, a certified copy of your passport carries more weight than a traditional scan or photocopy and may be able to help you out in sticky situations.