What to pack for a six month trip…
As I begin this journey, one of the most constant stressors has been deciding what the heck to pack that is going to last at least six months, be good for multiple climate zones and fit into one carry one back pack. With some tips from Rick Steves, the list below is what I managed to come up with. It is by no means perfect and I am sure I am going to have to do some shopping along the way, but it is a good starter reference for anyone who thinks they might try to do a journey like this one.
Note: Even though I have been told I am high maintenance because I wear make-up (what?!), I consider myself to be very minimalist and therefore, some may find this list to be absurdly barebones!
Bags:
I bought this luggage backpack off Ebags many years ago. I can’t find the same one anymore, but it measures 9x22x18, basically the same size as a small carry-on.
This Bananafish bag is actually a diaper bag that I snagged at a bin store for $7. It’ll work well for day tripping and should pass as a personal item when boarding the plane.
You can find all kinds of sets of packing cubes online and in stores. These are Bagail brand and fit perfectly inside my luggage backpack.
Accessories:
Plug adapter – a must for international travel! This is Zendure brand.
Power banks – I decided to bring two, just to have a backup in case one died/malfunctioned. This is Miady brand. Can’t really make a judgement on how well they work yet, but they were affordable.
Waterproof phone case – HiearCool brand. Again, haven’t use them yet, so can’t make a proper judgement but it’s better than nothing!
Clothing and Toiletries:
This, clothing in particular, was a struggle. My original plan was three bottoms and three tops, but heading to different climates made it so that I needed a bit of warmth so I couldn’t skip on pants. I ended up with far more than anticipated on both sides. For bottoms, a pair of jeans and a pair a hiking pants, two pairs of every day shorts, one pair of running shorts and some shorts to sleep/bum around in. For tops, a random assortment of tank tops, t-shirts and two long sleeved shirts. I think I ended up with about ten tops in total. The hope is to be able to shed some of them as they get worn and gross. I also packed about five pairs of socks, six pairs of underwear that are quick drying and two sports bras. Oh, and one swimsuit!
For toiletries, I got the travel size of pretty much everything one needs and just plan to buy more as needed. It is nice to note for those that are unsure, that toiletries no longer have to be removed from your bag during screening and you are safe to bring larger sizes of toothpaste and deodorant.
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