When considering what to bring on a trip, we all have a habit of packing way too much. Less is always more, which is why we came up with a list of 20 things that every wanderer should pack for the perfect trip.
When deciding what to bring on a trip, make sure you only bring products and items that you will truly need. These must be long-lasting and of good quality. It’s absolutely worth investing in things that are a little more expensive but will not break in the middle of anywhere.
Nothing is more inconvenient than preparing for a 6-month journey and having to buy a new backpack halfway through because you chose the cheapest one.
Don’t get us wrong: you don’t need the costliest backpacker travel devices either!
We’ve put together a list of 20 budget-friendly travel necessities for every wanderer. Some things can be a little more expensive, but we try to strike a balance between quality and affordability. These are the packing essentials that we personally suggest, and believe every wanderer, regardless of budget, should have.
Top 20 Things All Wanderers Need in Their Backpack
1. Backpack for Travel
We might as well start with the apparent necessity, the travel backpack. The size of the backpack you need for your backpacking trip will be determined by a number of criteria, the first of which is the length of your journey. Here are the bag sizes we recommend for various travel lengths…
- 90-130 pounds for 1-3 months
- 130 pounds for 3-6 months
- 130-180 pounds for 6-12 months
Another factor to consider is your height; if you’re on the shorter end of the range, you should attempt to limit your bag to 130 pounds or less. zips that lock, internal organizer compartments, and an adjustable back system are all important characteristics to look for when purchasing a travel backpack.
A backpack with a detachable daypack eliminates the need to purchase a separate bag for daily usage.
2. Light-Weight and Quick-Drying Microfiber Towels
When traveling, it’s usually a good idea to bring your own towels. If you stay in a low-cost hotel, towels may not be supplied, or if they are, you may not be allowed to take them to the beach. Because saving space is important, we propose investing in a microfiber towel, which is much smaller than a conventional towel.
Furthermore, they dry much faster and are just handier to carry with you when traveling. They’re simple to clean and may be used as a beach towel. Definitely a must-have for every wanderer and should be at the top of your list when considering what to carry.
3. Multifunctional Tool
Having a knife with you when traveling might provide several advantages. It is really beneficial whether you want to buy fruit as a snack or if you are cooking for yourself. This hiking must-have gear is especially handy when it comes with a variety of different tools such as pliers, a saw, a bottle opener, or scissors.
That way, you’ll always have the correct tool on hand. Many high-end multi-functional tools are available in supermarkets, but they are not cheap. We would recommend adding a less expensive item to your list of travel necessities. They continue to do their job! When flying, make sure to pack these items in your checked luggage.
4. Light-Weight Dry Bag
This is a waterproof bag that is available in a variety of sizes. However, not all dry bags are created equal. There are some that are quite heavy-duty and are suited for lengthy outdoor activities, and others that are much thinner and lighter. I recommend purchasing a medium-sized dry bag that is not too hefty.
When determining what to take, keep space and weight in mind, which means a big drybag may not be the ideal option. I definitely recommend obtaining one that is locked, since this is ideal for protecting your things when at the beach or on boat outings.
5. Power Bank
It’s no surprise that a power bank is an absolute must-have for any traveler. You’ll need a lot of electricity for your electronics, especially if you’re camping or traveling long distances. Having a high-capacity external battery with you will alleviate any concerns about running out of power in the middle of nowhere.
This is one of those backpacker travel devices where we would advocate spending a little extra money to acquire a long-lasting, high-quality product. It’ll be worthwhile in the long run, so bear that in mind when determining what to bring.
6. Torch
When it comes to important travel goods, keeping a torch with you at all times is one of our top recommendations. It’s impossible to predict when you’ll need it. Of course, walking about in the middle of the night in a place you’re unfamiliar with is never a smart idea.
When pursuing those magnificent sunsets, though, there are moments when you could get lost or just lose track of time.
Having a torch with you all the time ensures that you can see where you’re going at night and decreases the chance of becoming lost. Combine this with Google Maps on your phone to ensure you know where you’re going, and you’ll be good!
It’s also a pretty great idea to keep extra batteries on hand in case they run out and your torch goes dead.
7. First Aid Kit
Traveling is an incredible experience, but it is not without its share of knocks and bruises. It’s always smart to have something with you in case you trip on a trek, become dehydrated from the sun, or simply have a stomach ache.
Keeping a modest first aid kit with basic supplies in your backpack is a good approach to make your travels more pleasant. Band aids, pain relievers, antiseptic cream, and antihistamine pills or cream should all be included.
Tweezers, eyewash, electrolyte pills, and even ibuprofen gel for tired muscles are among more items to include in your first aid box. However, a first aid bag is not a substitute for a doctor, so if you continue to feel ill, go to the nearest doctor or drugstore.
8. An International Driver’s License
When determining what to pack for a vacation, you should include obtaining an international driver’s license on your to-do list. Most of the time, this is a short and uncomplicated process, although it differs per nation.
An international driver’s license is a separate document that you must carry in addition to your standard driver’s license. This permits you to drive (nearly) everywhere on the globe and is frequently required when renting a vehicle or scooter.
Make sure you apply for your license at least a few weeks before your trip to guarantee you get it in time. Every tourist must be well-prepared.
9. High-Quality Water Bottle
This is one of the most basic essentials for any tourist. Being ecologically conscious is a vital requirement for every traveler as eco-friendly travel becomes increasingly crucial. By purchasing one reusable water bottle, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste while also saving money.
Besides, water refill stations are now available in many nations, typically for free. Bringing a water bottle is a game-changer. It is normally preferable to use a metal bottle because they are easy to clean and lightweight.
Using an in-built filter in its cover, the Water-to-Go bottle eliminates 99.9% of dangerous bacteria, viruses, cysts, and protozoa present in water. When compared to chlorine and chlorine dioxide treatments, this is a much easier solution.
10. Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel & Wipes
You’d be amazed how often travelers fall ill as a result of inadequate hand hygiene when traveling. Carry a bottle of anti-bacterial hand gel with you at all times to avoid this.
Hand washing facilities aren’t always easily available, and if you’ve just handled some filthy money or need to wash up before you eat, you’ll be relieved to have some on hand.
Another travel hygiene need is a pack of wet wipes, which are fantastic for cleaning your hands, freshening up after lengthy trips, or removing dust from your feet and legs after a day of exploration.
11. Locks
Security is a key concern for travelers, so make sure you can always lock your backpack with a combination padlock. If your backpack has two lockable compartments, get two locks, or use one for your main bag and one for your daypack.
If you’re traveling through the US, choose a TSA-approved lock because this will allow airport security to check your bag without causing damage to your lock or luggage through forced entry.
Cable locks are popular with travelers because they can be used to lock backpack zips and even hostel lockers, as well as to lock your gear to fixed or hard-to-move objects.
12. Packing Cubes
Use packing cubes to separate and organize different items of clothes in your backpack to bring some order to it. Packing cubes not only make it easy to find your favorite pair of shorts when you need them, but they also help you maximize your packing space by keeping your garments neatly coiled and as compact as possible.
Packing cubes come in a variety of forms and sizes, and Amazon has a large assortment. You’ll never want to go back to not utilizing packing cubes after you’ve tried them. They’re one of the most essential items for any traveler, as well as one of the greatest travel packing tips.
13. Sleeping liner
When sleeping in a hostel, there’s always the worry of whether the linens have been cleaned. Who was the last one to sleep in that bed? These doubts will not arise if you use a sleeping liner. It will fit like a sleeping bag, providing you with peace of mind and allowing you to feel more at ease than you have in weeks.
They’re light and compact, and they fold up into a little ball! Additionally, it protects your sleeping bag from body oils and keeps it dirt-free. In the winter, it adds a layer of warmth, while in the summer, it may be used merely as a sleeping bag.
14. Earplugs
Earplugs are a must-have item in your room to drown out the snorers, midnight gigglers, and drunken stumblers.
You’ll get the beauty sleep you deserve with an excellent set of earplugs, making your stay far more comfortable than the 2* cockroach-infested place it most certainly is. They’ll undoubtedly become your favorite traveling companion.
Plus, taking a walk outside in the open allows you to reflect on your ideas.
15. Camera
Making new memories is what traveling is all about, so don’t forget to capture them with a high-quality camera. There’s nothing like reflecting back on all you’ve done and reminding yourself what an incredible ride you’ve had.
Phones capture fantastic images but having a camera will make a tremendous impact on your content. What type you bring with you is primarily determined by how serious you want to take your photography. When deciding what to pack and bring on a trip, consider the added weight and inconvenience of lugging a big camera.
For further protection, invest in a memory card to keep images and mail them home. Don’t forget to have fun along the road!
16. Neck Pillow
Long hours on a bus or a flight might be made more bearable if you bring a neck cushion. It will relieve the excruciating discomfort of a stiff neck. They come in a variety of colors, and some even feature an electric button that turns the neck pillow into a vibrating massager.
Assume you’re seated in a window seat on a flight, staring out the window, and your neck cushion is a massage pillow. Feels like you’re in heaven, right? If you’re concerned about packing too much in your carry-on, inflatable neck pillows are widely available and take up nearly no room.
17. Bluetooth Headphones
Nothing beats listening to music or podcasts on a lengthy bus or airline travel. Investing in Bluetooth headphones will greatly improve the flexibility and comfort of your listening experience. There’s no need to be concerned about cables or having to choose between charging your phone and listening to music.
Bluetooth headphones are an absolute must-have for every hiker. They assist to minimize jet lag and travel fatigue by allowing you to sleep more comfortably in flight. It’s not easy when you have to deal with cabin noise and talkative neighbors.
If you’re not on a tight budget, Apple’s EarPods are an excellent pick. They are, however, extremely expensive, especially for travelers.
18. Multipurpose Shoes
You must have a comfortable pair of shoes so that if you decide to go trekking or hiking in the spur of the moment, you are prepared. You don’t have to worry about having numerous pairs of shoes or canceling your excursion.
We recommend waterproof, long-lasting footwear for extended walks around town or unplanned treks.
You don’t have to be concerned if it rains or if you have to cross or stroll on a dirty roadway – you can quickly clean them and be safe. Investing in decent waterproof shoes is a smart idea whether you hike or not, or whether you travel in the off-season (autumn or spring) or winter.
19. A Breathable, Lightweight, Weatherproof Jacket
Check that the sizing is correct, that the fabric is robust, water, and weatherproof, and that it doesn’t impede your range of motion. This is necessary in case of terrible weather/unsuitable weather conditions to prevent you from being ill and developing a cold.
It is vital to wear a lightweight, waterproof jacket that is substantial enough to block the wind if it gets cold. Spend as little as possible and attempt to make do with what you currently have in your closet.
Jackets aren’t exactly cheap, but if you can afford one, invest in a high-quality one that will keep you warm on your excursions.
20. Travel Adapters
Before you go to your destination, do some research on the travel adapter you will require. The type of adapter you will need differs by nation, and they might be much more expensive in the airport if you need one last minute.
There are several sorts of adapters to pick from, and some are superior to others. To make things easier, getting a high-quality one with many ports might be beneficial. In this manner, you may charge numerous gadgets at the same time!
When deciding on a travel adapter, make sure that it is of high quality and safe to use. Just in case, avoid the really cheap ones.
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