What To Pack For A Backpacking Trip

Below is a simple broken down guide of what is required for a 1-6 month backpacking trip. This guide can vary depending on your personal preference. However don’t forget that every additional item you add you have to carry! Remember items can be purchased throughout your trip if you discover you just can’t live without something.

CLOTHING
x3 Tops
x1 Shorts
x1 Jeans
x7 Underwear
x2 Bras
x1 Pyjamas
x1 Bathers
x1 Waterproof Rain Jacket

WINTER
x3 Long shirts
x2 Singlets - Use for layering clothes
x1 Jeans
x1 Jacket
x1 Scarf
x1 Beanie
x1 Gloves
x7 Underwear
x2 Bras
x1 Pyjamas
x1 Waterproof Rain Jacket

FOOTWEAR
x1 Boots, Converse or Sport Shoe
x1 Sandels or Flip Flops

TOILETRIES
x1 Shampoo & Conditioner
x1 Toothbrush & Toothpaste
x1 Body Lotion/Soap
x1 Razor
x1 Micro-fibre Towel
x1 Sanitary products for girls
x1 Sunscreen
x1 Insect Repellent - A MUST have in Africa! I’d suggest opting for a lotion opposed to a spray
x5 Pack of Tissues - Essential when travelling to several parts of Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe

EXTRAS
x1 Lock - Useable for both your bag when flying and hostel dorm room lockers.
x1 Universal adapter
x1 Prescription Medication as required
x1 First Aid Kit
x1 Camera - Charger, rechargeable batteries if required and a back up SD card
x1 Hard copy of your passport, travel insurance, flight itineraries and emergency contact details 

OPTIONAL GEAR
x1 Compact sleeping bag - TIP: Use a carabiner to clip your sleeping bag on the outside of your pack
x1 Water Bottle & Filter - Cut down costs on bottled water throughout Europe
x1 Neck Pillow
x1 Head Torch - If you are staying in dorm rooms or camping
x1 Deck of Cards
x1 Laptop & Charger
x1 Mobile & Charger
x1 Kindle
x1 Power Board
x1 Notebook & Pen

EQUIPMENT
x1 Backpack
x4 Backpack Dividers - A fantastic way to sort out your belongings
x1 Day Pack

For more advice on packing check out my article - IF I COULD PACK ALL OVER AGAIN