I have had a few people ask me how one goes about packing for six months of traveling, especially when one is visiting four continents in various seasons and with various amenities. I asked myself the same thing many times in the year before our adventure. In truth, I still don't know what one should bring, but whatever we did managed to work just fine for us. At least it has worked so far, after all, we still have plenty of trip left.
I was going to write a list of everything we brought, but that would take a while. Instead I will just touch on a few things.
Clothing
- I would recommend bringing less than you think you will need. I have 4 tanks, 3 tees, 2 light longsleeves, and a heavier longsleeve. I also have 2 shorts (short and knee length), 2 capris, and 2 long pants (tights and linen). I would have brought 2 tanks and 2 tees, but multiple bottoms have been a necessity. In regular life I prefer the opposite, but the length for bottoms options have been lovely. One of my capris are leggings/tights which are so comfy to travel in, but the tightness isn't always the most appropriate option. I only wear the short shorts when I am hiking or at the beach.
Hygeine
- It is fairly obvious, but it is worth reiterating -- hand sanitizer is wonderful when traveling. We don't use it too often, but it definitely comes in handy when you do not have access to a clean water source.
- Also wet wipes. These are w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l. Really they are. I wouldn't travel without them.
Medications
- Most people know to take immodium with them when they travel, but I would also recommend bringing sennekot in case you run into the other issue. Also, I would only recommend taking immodium if dehydration is an issue or if you are taking a long bus ride. My policy is, if you have a decent enough bathroom then use it!
Gear
- Headlamps are a must, especially when headed to a third world country as power is less than reliable or non-existant.
- Organization Bags are also handy. We have some mesh ones and, of course, ziploc bags. They help keep our packs clean and easy to navigate.
- Compression Bags are also wonderful. I have all my tops in one and all my bottoms in another. I think Erik has all his clothes stuffed into one. When space is limited, as it is when you have a single pack to carry eberything in, compression bags are awesome!
What We Didn't Bring
These are things we wish we had brought. None are necessary, but they would make traveling a bit more pleasant.
- For starters, air fresheners. I am talking the bathroom spray. I brought these to Ghana but didn't think to pack them this time around. I am particularly fond of the neutralizing spray... The tiny, super powerful spray things. They are especially delightful when you have an exceptionally stinky room. Or when you can't flush toilet paper and are frequenting the bathroom. Or if you are prone to gagging every time you use a public poop hole. I wish I could remember the brand I love.
- I canot tell you the number of times I have wished I had Ikea clips like these. They would come in handy to seal off crackers or bread or rice or whatever else. Nobody likes stale, soggy, or spilt snacks in their bag.
- I wouldn't like using one at home because I love real books but if I were traveling for an extended time again I would bring a kindle. I have SO many books in my bag!
And that is all I have time for right now.
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