Travel Gear

Packing

• Backpacking backpack – We used the Mountain Designs X Country Hike Pack 75L.
• Day backpack – We highly recommend a functional backpack that has a purpose built section for cameras. Sadly, our Crumpler bag has been discontinued, but we love it because a quarter of the bag carried a DSLR and up to two lenses, but it left enough space to be useful as a day bag.
• Crossbody handbag – Aim for one where the bag strap is directly attached to the bag. Handbags with clips break easily and may be easier to steal.
• Compression sacks – Ours are from Kathmandu. We recommend using smaller ones, since once they compress they are quite dense and the larger ones can make it difficult to pack around.
• Lockable backpack cover – If we could recommend one item – have this case was it. Not only did the Osprey AirCover it protect and contain our bag while travelling, it served as a waterproof cover when hiking, and most importantly, it allowed us to lock our bags. Of course, all someone would have to do is slice it open to access what’s inside, but it’s a layer of security and protection that can be the difference between having your items stolen in a hostel, vs not.
• Waterproof soap bag – Say goodbye to slimy soap and wet toiletries. We purchased the Matador Flatpak Soap Bar Case.
• Laundry bag
• Dry bag
• Collapsible tote bags – We used these nearly daily, the Fold Up Shopper Tote Bag from Target carried our groceries, additional laundry, snacks and food.

Technology

• Small laptop – What can we say, we’re millennials…big purchases (like flights) require a big screen.
• Hard laptop case – We bought the TomToc Fancy Case since it could hold all our cables as well as protect any souvenirs or artwork we bought.
• Multi-adaptor – The EPICKA Universal Travel Adaptor worked really well for us for both traditional plugs and USB cords.
• Noise cancelling headphones
• Burner phone – Make sure to download all your apps to this device before you travel. You’ll thank yourself if yours gets stolen.
• Portable charger
• SD card adaptor to back up photos from your phone.

First Aid

• Tactical first aid kit
• Splinter probe
• Alcohol spray

Medications

The following medications were specific for travelling across South and Central America, and may not be applicable to all destinations. Seek advice from your doctor first to decide if these are right for you.

• Altitude sickness medication
• Ondanestron
• Amoxycillin
• Gastrostop
• Hydrolyte tablets
• Paracetemol
• Ibuprofen
• Cold and flu medication
• Anti-parasite medication
• Nasal Spray

Toiletries

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Hairbrush
• Floss
• Moisturiser
• Soap bars
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Makeup remover cloth
• Baby wipes
• Ear plugs

Hiking Gear

• Hiking socks
• Hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Water resistant hiking pants
• Collapsible food containers – Without a doubt, one of the most useful things to have with us, our only regret is not bringing a second bowl. If they come with lids, they can be used to bring fresh food on hikes. Otherwise, they’re a great way to save money by cooking your own noodles and washing your own produce. Make sure you get the ones with the lids. We used the Sea to Summit X-Seal & Go cups and bowls.
• Cutlery

Cold Weather Gear

• Thermals
• Puffer jacket
• Scarf
• Gloves
• Fleece jumper
• Beanie

Miscellaneous

• At least two travel locks
• Pegs and travel clothesline
• Travel umbrella
• Spare charging cable
• Eye mask
• Gym towel
• Permethrin – We soaked our hiking and adventure clothes in Permethrin before departing to give us extra protection in mosquito-prone areas.
• Water purification tablets
• Notepad
• A few clip seal bags
• Are you Australian? If so, pack Vegemite.