While many find it the most ideal way to experience the world on a budget, the most important thing backpackers need to think about before embarking on the journey of a lifetime is their actual backpack.
To avoid ruining your momentous life adventure by carrying around a heavy pack and inviting unwanted back pain, Reservations.com has shared the following tips to help survive a month without the stress of “stuff” to hold you back.
Tips for Living Out of a Backpack for a Month
PURCHASE PACKING CUBES
Packing cubes can compress your clothes and squeeze them tight into a backpack. By squeezing out all the air of the small compartments where you place the pieces of clothing in, this not only saves you space but saves you the heavy burden of carrying your clothes around. Not to mention the much needed protection for your clothing against humidity and dirt.
PACK MINIMUM TOILETRIES
By packing many small toiletries, you save room and get to minimize items to the most vital. A list of must have toiletries generally include solid shampoo bars that can last a while, toothpaste, and sunscreen. For all the lady travelers, a diva cup or a moon cup can be an alternative to tampons and pads because they occupy much needed space.
LEARN TO SHARE POWER CABLES
Taking all your charging cables, whether it be for your phone, laptop, or digital camera tends to waste a lot of space in your bag. So, if you’re traveling with friends learn to share cables and utilize the space in each other’s bags. We also recommend getting a portable charger for those locations that will be far from civilization, they will save you time and space.
TAKE A SMALL CAMERA
For all those traveling photographers, remember you are backpacking for a month. Although, having all your lenses would make your photos phenomenal, it is probably not the best idea. It is recommended to take a smaller camera or if you use a DSLR you might want to keep it out of your bag and adjust to carrying it around your neck.
REMEMBER THE ESSENTIALS
This may seem obvious, but most people still forget: you will be traveling for 30 days. Fresh socks are always an essential, to avoid blisters and wet feet. Packing warm is a must and easy to forget. A water-resistant lightweight jacket is perfect, you cannot go wrong with this. First aid is imperative especially when traveling alone. And please do not forget a traveling towel, it comes in very handy.
