Here is my backpacking list for my fellow lady backpackers out there:
 |
| Me on the left in Peru with a new friend: sunglasses, headband, across the body zipup purse, black tank, jeans, and teds. |
- Backpack (obviously)
- Packing cubes/ or bags- avoid plastic, they are too loud in hostel rooms if you have to pack or get your stuff while people are sleeping. You need these to keep your stuff organized because if you throw all of your stuff in there you are going to want to die when you are looking for your one top that is hidden under your book
- Comfortable shoes- many backpackers wear walking shoes, I stuck with plain white teds that can be dressed up or down.
- Clothes specific to the weather- this kind of depends on where you are going but for South America I had a raincoat, a plain jacket, and boots for colder weather (I was there during rainy season- definitely look into this).
- Bathing suit- beaches, hot springs, rivers, etc.
- Sunscreen-keep in mind in other parts of the world/altitudes the sun can be more strong
- Flip-Flops- definitely a must for hostel living.
- Fast drying towel
- Scarf- I packed 2 and these were a life saver. They diversify your limited wardrobe, can be used to wrap around you when you're cold, can be used as a blanket, or even as something to lay on at the beach. I used them for all four purposes and I picked 2 bright, solid colors which I am happy with because I didn't get tired of any busy pattern.
- Ipod/ music player- this is tricky because if you flash around ipods you have the risk of getting robbed. I bought a cheap used ipod for $35 on ebay which worked like a charm and I wouldn't be heartbroken if it was lost or stolen. While I was backpacking, I kept it in my bag almost at all times especially if I wasn't changing a song.
- Travel alarm clock- it's better than having your phone out all night in the hostels
- Vitamin-C- I had some emergency packets for anytime I felt my immune system wasn't as strong
- Travel Tissues- Such a life-saver, a lot of bathrooms do not have toilet paper!
- Hand Sanitizer Wipes- I prefer these over the liquid but it's a must because many bathrooms also do not have handsoap while traveling, in my experience
- Wrinkle Release Spray- I didn't use this too often but it came in handy when I needed it
- A Good Book- for while you are in transit
- Knowledge of the Basic Words in the Local Language- they do not speak English everywhere, especially if you are by yourself and go into smaller towns you will probably reach some difficulties.
- Copies of your Passport
- Mini locks- for your bag while you are sleeping, people say that someone can just cut through it but I believe that most pickpockets are opportunistic
- Normal Lock- for lockers to lock up your stuff in the hostel
- Camera
- Normal Toiletries
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Lotion
- Body and Face Soap
- Nail file/clippers
- Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Floss
- Q-tips
- Feminine Products- warning: you might not be able to find what you use just anywhere (or any city)!
- Deodorant
- Make-up remover wipes- These were great for both after a night out and during long travels/bus rides to feel refreshed and keep my skin clear.
- Bigger Purse that zips and can go across your body- for while you are walking around/ gone for the whole day. You also want a purse that you can put in front of your body while you are walking so someone doesn't pick pocket you/ grab it
- Smaller Purse that zips and can go across your body- I liked this one if I was going across the street really quick or to dinner or something. Same reasoning as the Bigger Purse.
- Makeup/ Lip balm
- Hair ties/ Headbands- headbands are also nice to mix up your hairstyle
- Change purse- I liked using one of these because I felt like it looked like I wasn't caring a lot of money
- Money belt- I was really resistant to this until I realized that if I lost my debit card I would be stuck in some city in South America with no money. Do it. Also don't put all of your valuables in one place.
- Pepper Spray- I didn't feel unsafe once but I liked having it just in case.
- Small Flashlight- lifesaver in hostel rooms when you come into the room after people are sleeping!
- PJ's you're going to be comfortable being seen in- one word: hostel
- Clothes-wise- I packed clothes that were plain and could be dressed up or down. Leggings are a must, in my opinion, for long travel days. Things I packed: a plain cotton floral dress, a long white shirt, nude tank for layering, jeans, a long sleeve boy-style button up, black sweater dress, plain black tank, grey shirt/dress. For going out/dinner: two plain black dresses, black tights, and black flats.
- Exercise shoes- great for if you are going on a trek or feel like getting some exercise
- Journal and Pen- great to write down addresses (of hostels), names of people you meet, track the money you are spending, etc.
- Room for Souvenirs- Believe me, you're going to want to buy stuff
(more continued under picture)
 |
| long white shirt with nude tank under, leggings, scarf, cross the body zip up purse, earrings I bought in Ecuador, and a side of a largeee water bottle (backpackers' accessory) |
Optional:
- Vaseline- I packed this and I loved it for the long travels because my cuticles would be really dry (which I am sure is because of the weather) but I would recommend Vaseline or at least hand lotion!
Don't Bring:
- Expensive Jewelry-1. it makes you a target 2. if you lose it or it gets stolen you're going to be heart broken. I only packed a couple pieces which I thought was fine.
- Hair blow dryer, straightener, curler- I didn't see anyone use one of these while I was backpacking and most likely you aren't going to be able to use it because the voltage won't be right (which is what happened to me, complete waste of space and weight)
No comments:
Post a Comment