Long term backpacking is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. Whether you’re going for a few months or a few years, it’s essential to pack carefully and wisely. Knowing what to bring and what to leave behind is key to having an enjoyable experience. Here are the most important items you should consider packing for your long term backpacking trip:
Clothes:
Depending on where and when you’re traveling, you should plan accordingly for the climate.
Pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, so that you don’t have to bring a lot of clothing with you. Make sure to include items such as shorts, pants, t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, gloves, and jackets. Be sure to also pack a good pair of walking shoes or boots as well.
Toiletries:
Bring only the essentials when it comes to toiletries so that they don’t take up too much space in your bag. Things like toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, razors, tampons/pads (if needed), sunscreen, and bug spray are all great items to pack.
Tech Gear:
When backpacking for an extended period of time it’s important to stay connected with family and friends back home. Bring along your cell phone if possible (or at least an unlocked phone in case you need one overseas), laptop/tablet/e-reader if needed for work or school purposes, camera gear if photography is important for your trip (including extra batteries/memory cards), portable charger/power bank as a backup for charging phones or other devices.
First Aid Kit:
A first aid kit is an absolute must-have when traveling anywhere! It should include things like bandages in various sizes, disinfectant wipes/spray/creams (for cuts or scrapes), pain relief medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin (especially helpful if you’re trekking at higher altitudes). Additionally bringing along any necessary medications that you take regularly is also very important.
Essential Documents:
Make sure that you have all necessary documents such as passports/visas with multiple copies stored separately from each other in case anything gets lost or stolen during your travels. Additionally having copies of medical records can prove beneficial if medical attention is needed while abroad.
Miscellaneous Items:
Other useful things include a multi-tool (including scissors & knife blade), water bottle & purifying system if needed depending on where you’re traveling to (if tap water isn’t safe to drink), flashlight & spare batteries (especially helpful during power outages!), travel guidebooks & maps of the area(s) you plan on visiting.
Conclusion:
Long term backpacking requires careful planning ahead of time in order to make sure that all essential items are included in your packing list. Clothes appropriate for the climate where travelling; toiletries; tech gear; first aid kit; essential documents; and miscellaneous items are all necessary considerations when packing for long term backpacking trips.
With careful thought put into what needs be brought along versus what can be left behind at home will ensure an enjoyable journey!