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- You don’t need a change of clothes for everyday.
- Layering is the best way to dress for all weathers.
- Cotton clothes retain water, which is rubbish for backpacking in the winter. During the summer however that is an obvious perk.
- Wool socks and base layers are the way to go in winter.
- Merino wool is worth the money because it’s not itchy.
- Extra socks are a necessity not a luxury.
- Every little thing you can cut from your backpack bag really does make it weigh less.
- Pack less, smile more.
- Pack a portable charger WITH converters.
- Take a kindle not hardcopies of books.
- Download “offline” maps while you have wifi.
- Listening to music on an mp3 player is better than wasting phone battery.
- Microfibre towels take ages to dry, a wash cloth is just as good as a towel.
- Ziplock bags in various sizes will save your day, every day.
- Going with the flow and hoping to find a bed for the night doesn’t work out if you turn up mid-festival/holiday/celebration… check how busy your destination might be before you head there.
- Good socks are just as important as good shoes and boots.
- Sock liners are a luxury you make room for if you don’t want stinky feet or blisters.
- Looking for stuff in an unorganised pack is a waste of time – pack your bag so the stuff you use the most is on the top or in external pockets.
- Earplugs are a must if you want a good night’s sleep.
- Hostel beds can be rank even at the best of times – pack a travel sheet.
Don’t forget your travel insurance! Living out of a bag and being constantly on the move ups the risk of losing belongings, or having them stolen. We have special long stay insurance perfect for backpacking adventures. Cover from 3 to 18 months covering casual work plus many sports.