What to pack

If you are going to consider yourself a bona fide backpacker you are going to need a backpack. No excuses, suitcases just won't cut it. Unless that is of course you are moving to a destination and staying put. Because in that case, you'll never get enough in your backpack!

So you've got a backpack.

Then you want a daypack, a smaller version for trips out, overnight stays and weekends away when you don't want to take everything you own, its often impractical to take a large bag and unnecessary!

Don't forget

• A Money belt- to carry cash, traveller's cheques and important documents. Most common ones are either worn around the neck or around the waist. Make sure it's concealable though because thieves often look for these. And leave a record and photocopies of all important documents and at least 4 signed photographs back home with your folks for emergencies.
• Address book- or in today's electronic global village, otherwise known as an email book. You'll meet some wicked people you just don't want to lose contact with.
• Alarm clock- You really don't want to be missing those flights, buses or trains so this is very important. You could always take your mobile phone with you, not only does it act as an alarm clock it's a handy calculator and means of contact, especially in emergencies!
• Batteries - imagine the horrors of running out of power on your camera mid festival/sunset/action! It's a great idea to carry spares with you for all your electrical devices just in case you are somewhere you can't get hold of any.
• Contraception - Condoms are usually available in most countries but the quality varies. And you should make sure you check the use-by date before you buy any. So it's easier to carry your own supply from home, plus if you ask nicely at your local family planning clinic they will provide you with some for free! If you are on the pill, bring along enough to last your trip.
• Eye wear - Ah sunnies, your eyes are important to you and they'll need protecting, another excuse ton pop out and purchase some fashionable eyewear. If you wear glasses make sure you take a spare pair as it could be difficult to get hold of your prescription whilst away. Contact lens wearers should also remember to bring spares, just in case you do actually lose one .
• Guidebooks, maps and phrasebooks - Ok they weigh quite a lot, but will save you a lot of time being lost or missing out on the highlights and money if you resort to buying another copy when you are out there!
• Matches/ lighter- For fires, lighting mosquito coils, candles etc.
• Pack of cards - Boredom beaters while waiting at airports, railway stations, late nights at hostels and an awesome accessory to make friends, since card games, like music cross borders and nationalities.
• Padlocks and chains - to secure your backpack while travelling long distances or to fasten the door of your room for extra security. Get bigger ones to fit adequately into hostel lockers that can secure your valuables. Combo-locks are the best for tamper-proof security.
• Pocket-knife - A Swiss army knife or a similar penknife have loads of useful attachments like scissors, bottle opener, can opener and has even been known to open the odd coconut or two! Remember not to keep this in your in flight luggage, as it'll be confiscated and you'll feel like a Wally at customs!
• Sunscreen - skin cancer isn't fun, and neither is sore, itchy, peeling skin, so slip, slap, slop on some factor 15-30 for adequate protection. You'll still tan and it will last longer when you return home!
• Toilet paper - never leave home without it. Leaves really just don't cut it!
• Towels- make sure they are not too big or thick or they would take ages to dry. Invest in a travel towel - made of fast drying material that feels like chamois. Keep it washed though or they start to smell a bit!
• Torch - a very handy gadget and a total necessity. Some places don't have electricity and it's annoying when you have to change your clothes or find the toilet in the pitch black. If going hiking or even if not consider a minor style lamp that straps to your forehead because it frees both your hands.
• Toiletries - most toiletries are widely available, but carry any special products you use from home.
• Sterilised kit and medical kit - you can buy prepared kits from most chemists or travel shops or you can make you own. Use a container that is water proof and squash proof. Try a pocketed plastic case or a plastic zip up box.
• Driving licence - a very useful photo id, lots of places will accept UK driving licences as proof of age. Try and get an international driving licence as this means you can drive abroad - if you are over 21 of course!
• Hand sanitizers of travel wash - convenient cleansers while you are on the move and fun to use.
• Camera and film - A compact camera with a small zoom should be affordable and great for everyday photographs, unless you are a photographer at heart and want some extraordinary shots. Try out different films and get creative. Make sure that your shots are better than anyone else's!
• Sleeping bag and cover sheets - an absolute essential if you plan to be on the move and don't plan to stay in hotels all through your stay. Invest in a sleeping bag liner, they are thin and come in cotton or silk materials that can keep you away from bugs (remember bed bugs DO bite, they are not a myth!) and mosquitoes, and it's particularly useful if its too hot for a sleeping bag. Many hostels do not provide bedding.


• For more tips and advice check out our Gapper's advice section where seasoned travellers give you the best tips they learnt whilst on the road!