A backpacking checklist is useful, but many trip advisors go overboard in the sheer quantity of items recommended. While it can be unnerving to consider being without so many creature comforts for an extended period of time, every ounce of extra gear you bring adds up to useless pounds that weigh you down while walking, crowds you on public transportation and, even in that remote moment when you think you might actually need it, remain lost, buried under all the other stuff in your pack that you have been using regularly.
Apart from the absolute essential needs-safety items, personal documents, clothing and additional items to keep you dry and warm-what follows is a checklist of the main items you might want to consider bringing when you go backpacking around the world.
1. An Additional Pack: If you follow the advice here, you won't need a massive, fully-framed pack to lug all your worldly possessions, but rather a modest-sized one that can easily fit under a seat on a bus. Many advisors also recommend a day pack for toting a few items while leaving your larger pack behind, and, if you are smart about it, you can keep this down to just a small messenger bag or shoulder pack.
2. Personal Toiletries: If you are willing to check your bag at an airport, personal toiletries are a convenient addition to your pack. Otherwise, just plan on buying some at your destination.
3. Water Bottle: You could just purchase bottled water and reuse the plastic bottle with tap water readily available in many of the places you will visit, but many backpackers prefer to bring their own bottle.
4. A Brimmed Hat And Sunglasses: These two items provide additional protection from the sun beyond the sunscreen you should already be bringing.
5. Duct Tape: An entire roll of duct tape is excessive, but rolling a bit around your water bottle will give you access to this indispensable multipurpose tool when you need it most.
6. Padlock: Even if you have little of value in your pack, you still do not want to be left with nothing due to a random theft. Bringing a padlock so you can lock your pack up in a hostel while you are gone during the day is a smart, inexpensive security measure.
7. Money Belt: Another security device, a money belt, ought to be more secure than a wallet while still giving you ready access to your cash.
8. Recording Devices: Whether a camera or a sketchbook, many people want a way to record their backpacking travels. Just keep in mind that the fancier your choice is, the more likely it will be stolen.
Assuming you bring credit cards, debit cards and some cash, you can simply purchase the few items you end up needing that you did not already bring; you'll be surprised at how little this ends up being.
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