How to Pack for an International Backpacking Trip

Packing light for an international trip will mean freedom and flexibility throughout your journey. Plan your packing list carefully and stick with it, and enjoy the benefits of light-footed travel.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Local Guidebooks
• First Aid Kits
• Plastic Freezer Bags
• Duffel Bags
• Internal-frame Backpacks
• Stuff Sacks

1. Choose your backpack carefully, and plan to pack only as much as you can comfortably carry on your own within one pack.

2. Consider purchasing a large duffel bag in which to put your backpack when checking it on flights or carrying it on public transport. This will protect your bag and straps from damage, as well as deter against theft.

3. Consult Web sites and guidebooks for suggested packing lists tailored to the country you will be visiting and the activities you will be participating in.

4. Talk to your physician or a travel doctor for a suggested list of medications and first-aid items.

5. Make your own packing list after doing your research and stick with it.

6. Pack clothing that is essential and avoid items that you may need only once or are bringing "just in case." Choose fabrics that can be washed by hand easily and be dried on a line; don't bring items that require dry cleaning or ironing.

7. Bring items that are in good condition and are of good enough quality to withstand many washings and wearings. Choose colors that can be mixed and matched, preferably colors that won't show stains.

8. Plan on layering clothing if you will need to dress for warmth, rather than packing bulky warm items. Try out your layering system before making final packing decisions and make certain you can easily fit items over one another.

9. Roll your clothing into tight tubes to use packing space most efficiently and to keep clothes from wrinkling.

10. Separate your clothing and other items into different-colored stuff sacks by categories such as "socks and underwear," "pants," "warm layers," "gifts." This will make it easier to locate items without having to unpack everything.

11. Use airtight freezer bags for anything that may leak or spill. Anything liquid or gel-like will most likely end up oozing out during your flight.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring only two or three paperbacks for pleasure reading because you can always swap with other backpackers along the way. If traveling with people you know, consult with them before the trip so that you don't carry duplicate books.

on 11/22/2005 People will be friendlier if you don't look like a slob while backpacking. Pack black clothes (they hide dirt), look good anywhere (especially Europe) and hide the pounds you gain from eating the great food. In Asia, always err on the conservative side.

on 11/22/2005 I've backpacked extensively throughout Europe and have made *many* mistakes along the way. To ensure a more enjoyable trip, pack your backpack - then remove half of what you've placed in the bag. You'll enjoy your vacation much more.

on 11/22/2005 Line the bottom of your backpack with a couple of heavy duty trash bags. Not only will this keep your stuff inside dry when you set your pack on the wet ground, trash bags weigh virtually nothing and can be used for other things (like an extra poncho).