We expect this to probably change a little as we get closer to June, but here is our first attempt at our packing list. I can carry about 20lbs and Terry can pack in about 40lbs – it’s going to be tough to narrow down our item list!
1. Backpacks: Manali’s Pack - Gregory Deva 60 Terry’s Pack – Gregory Z65 (4lbs 3oz)
2. Documents: Passport Photos, Passports, Visas, Airline Tickets
3. Eyewear: Glasses, Contacts, Sunglasses
4. Footwear: Manali’s Shoes – Merrell Siren Sport Cross-Training Shoes (20oz), Socks, Flip Flops
5. Toiletries / First Aid: Duct Tape, Zip Lock Bags, Anti-Biotics, Pepto, Purell, Bug Repellant, Sunscreen
6. Outerwear: Manali’s Rain Jacket – Marmot Precip (12oz), Terry’s Rain Jacket – Marmot Precip (12oz), Lightweight Fleece
7. Misc: Pen, Small Notebook, Deck of Cards, Reading Book, Puzzle Book
8. Swimwear / Bathwear: Swimsuits, Ultra Light Pack Towels
9. Clothes: I think the key is to “layer” – so 2 zip off pants, few tanks/tees, a long sleeve shirt and 5 pairs of undies/socks… we still have to think this through.
Terry’s Underwear: ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go Boxer (4oz) (4 pairs)
10. Tent: REI Half Dome 2 Tent (5lbs 11oz)
11. Electronics: Nikon D60 (16.1oz) w/ 18-55MM (9.3oz) and 55-200MM Len (11.8oz), Canon HV20 HD Camcorder (1.2lbs), Laptop and Accessories
Does it go in the Backpack?! That’s our money saving motto! We really don’t need to buy any material items other than what goes into our backpacks, everything else has can wait until we get back…
I don’t know your exact agenda, but this is what worked for us:
For starters, that pack looks rather complicated; it’s designed for people who are probably walking farther in one stretch than you ever will while carrying it. When you need to open it in transit, which you will, it’ll take a bit to get it open, and the small top opening means you’ll have to take other stuff out unless what you’re looking for is on top.
We never carried our large packs for more than a mile at a stretch, so what we went for weren’t backpacks, but travel packs. Mine has been discontinued, but it’s similar to this: http://www.eaglecreek.com/bags_luggage/backpacks/Thrive-65L-10066/ (although not in that hideous color). It’s got easy access through a huge zip-off flap (important), a removable day bag, exterior side pockets, a separate compartment for shoes, solid handles for when I carry it as a suitcase, and a flap that will zip up to cover the straps. (Did you know that some airlines will automatically charge you a large-bag fee if the straps are exposed?)
You’ll also definitely want a sleep sack of some sort; you’d be surprised at the number of guesthouses in Asia that don’t provide sheets. We used these: http://www.rei.com/product/690012 and loved them; I still use it here in France because it’s so comfortable. It’s especially important if you’re considering carrying a tent.
We didn’t bring hiking boots; I found that these: http://www.rei.com/product/763575 were a really good balance of technical specs and not looking like hiking boots. We also didn’t load up on technical clothes; unless you’re spending the vast majority of your time jungle trekking, wearing street clothes so you don’t stick out quite as much is preferable, and generally more comfortable (for me, at least).
Man, that turned out to be quite a lot of unsolicited advice. Hope it helps somewhat, and have fun!
Hey Guys,
After 3 months traveling around OZ, New Zealand and Fiji you’ve missed a fes essentials…
We had an elasticated washing line which was a god send for drying stuff over night in your room (socks, undies etc)
)
Also, your own camping style cutlery set – feel much happier using that than the stuff some places had to offer.
A torch / flashlight
And we couldn’t have survived without our walking boots! Lived in them almost the entire trip. For hikes or just running around daily – they were so comfortable and didn’t make your feet sweat or anything. Still using them now, 4 years later! Definately worth investing in a good pair!
I’ll also agree with Bryan and say you definately want to be taking a sleeping bag. Was like a home comfort, getting into something similar each night, plus you knew where it had been!
I’m loving this site! How did you put it all together??