How to Pack for an International Backpacking Trip

Select the right kind of backpack from a reputable company, such as Lowe Alpine or North Face., Create a list of what you think you'll need for an international backpacking trip., Pack a backpack with the following clothing items: Two pairs of...

21 Steps 3 min read Advanced

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Select the right kind of backpack from a reputable company

    Features to look for are:
    Comfortable back and hip straps are a necessity.

    Try it on to check.

    Zipper pockets that can be secured with a small lock.

    A backpack on the light side that provides about 20% of space for maneuvering.
  2. Step 2: such as Lowe Alpine or North Face.

    Experienced backpackers tell you to gather everything you think you'll need and then get rid of half of it.

    Whether you're going to backpack Europe, Asia, or South America, an important question that determines what makes the list to pack a backpack with is "can I buy it local."

    Jeans are bulky and take up a lot of room.

    If you think you can't live without them, wear them on the plane trips.

    If you backpack Europe, you'll notice the only time you see people in shorts are if they're American tourists or you're at a beach.

    If you must bring shorts, consider pants with zip-off legs.

    Two to three shirts, including one long-sleeve shirt when you pack a backpack.

    If you bring a t-shirt and polo, you can wear them together when the temperature drops.

    Females might want to replace one pair of pants with a longish skirt in order to be admitted into historical churches that have dress codes and to limit unwanted attention for showing too much skin in many Asian locations.

    Take 3-to-6 pairs of underwear for an international backpacking trip.

    Fast drying moisture-wicking brands like Under Armour make it easy to wash out underwear at night.

    Socks.

    A small clothesline and sewing kit can be lifesavers on an international backpacking trip. , Light trail-running shoes make good walking shoes for a backpacking trip.

    If you're going to a warm location, take flip flops for relaxing and wearing into public showers.

    Some people prefer to relax with slippers on cold international backpacking trips. , If there's a possibility of rain, go with a hooded water-resistant windbreaker.

    Backpackers who plan on sleeping on the ground may prefer a poncho that can double as something to sleep on.

    A collapsible umbrella is another option.

    Pack lightweight Microfleece for cool days or nights.

    But, for the most part, you'll want to layer clothing for warmth. , They keep your pack organized and packed tightly. , Don't forget:
    Soap.

    Not all hotels provide soap.

    Tissue packets in case you end up somewhere without toilet paper.

    Shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and razors are all available whether you backpack Europe or other locations. , Check with camping or swimming outlets. , Make copies or rip out pages that you need.

    Then staple or bind the pages.

    This allows much more room than taking an entire guidebook or two. ,, Keep repellent in a separate pocket or in a plastic bag to keep it from leaking onto clothes.

    Pack a compact mosquito net if international backpacking takes you to sub-Saharan Africa. ,, Some items you might want to consider are:
    Lightweight sleeping bag.

    Fork/spoon tool combination.

    Bowl. , Experienced backpackers suggest:
    Small LED flashlight.

    Adapter if an international backpacking trip takes you to locations with different electrical currents and outlets.

    Trip journal.

    Tiny lock for locking backpack zippers shut.

    If you check your backpack at the airport, make certain the lock is approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) so they can inspect your backpack without damaging it. ,
  3. Step 3: Create a list of what you think you'll need for an international backpacking trip.

  4. Step 4: Pack a backpack with the following clothing items: Two pairs of lightweight pants made of cotton or another fabric that dries quickly.

  5. Step 5: Take two pairs of shoes: walking shoes and relaxing shoes.

  6. Step 6: Choose weather-appropriate gear based on your location.

  7. Step 7: Use see-through packing cubes for packing clothing.

  8. Step 8: Choose a sturdy freezer zip-lock type of bag or a PVC mesh bag to pack toiletries in.

  9. Step 9: Remember a good fast-drying towel.

  10. Step 10: Save space when you pack a backpack with selected travel information.

  11. Step 11: Bring a digital camera

  12. Step 12: charger and a high-capacity memory card.

  13. Step 13: Carry mosquito repellent.

  14. Step 14: Opt for a small first aid kit with pain relievers

  15. Step 15: band-aids

  16. Step 16: tweezers

  17. Step 17: antibiotic cream

  18. Step 18: something for upset stomachs and hydrocortisone cream for bug bites.

  19. Step 19: Set aside camping type equipment if a backpacking trip will often take you away from towns.

  20. Step 20: Think about small extras that might come in handy.

  21. Step 21: Keep money and important papers in a money belt strapped to your waist and worn under your shirt.

Detailed Guide

Features to look for are:
Comfortable back and hip straps are a necessity.

Try it on to check.

Zipper pockets that can be secured with a small lock.

A backpack on the light side that provides about 20% of space for maneuvering.

Experienced backpackers tell you to gather everything you think you'll need and then get rid of half of it.

Whether you're going to backpack Europe, Asia, or South America, an important question that determines what makes the list to pack a backpack with is "can I buy it local."

Jeans are bulky and take up a lot of room.

If you think you can't live without them, wear them on the plane trips.

If you backpack Europe, you'll notice the only time you see people in shorts are if they're American tourists or you're at a beach.

If you must bring shorts, consider pants with zip-off legs.

Two to three shirts, including one long-sleeve shirt when you pack a backpack.

If you bring a t-shirt and polo, you can wear them together when the temperature drops.

Females might want to replace one pair of pants with a longish skirt in order to be admitted into historical churches that have dress codes and to limit unwanted attention for showing too much skin in many Asian locations.

Take 3-to-6 pairs of underwear for an international backpacking trip.

Fast drying moisture-wicking brands like Under Armour make it easy to wash out underwear at night.

Socks.

A small clothesline and sewing kit can be lifesavers on an international backpacking trip. , Light trail-running shoes make good walking shoes for a backpacking trip.

If you're going to a warm location, take flip flops for relaxing and wearing into public showers.

Some people prefer to relax with slippers on cold international backpacking trips. , If there's a possibility of rain, go with a hooded water-resistant windbreaker.

Backpackers who plan on sleeping on the ground may prefer a poncho that can double as something to sleep on.

A collapsible umbrella is another option.

Pack lightweight Microfleece for cool days or nights.

But, for the most part, you'll want to layer clothing for warmth. , They keep your pack organized and packed tightly. , Don't forget:
Soap.

Not all hotels provide soap.

Tissue packets in case you end up somewhere without toilet paper.

Shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and razors are all available whether you backpack Europe or other locations. , Check with camping or swimming outlets. , Make copies or rip out pages that you need.

Then staple or bind the pages.

This allows much more room than taking an entire guidebook or two. ,, Keep repellent in a separate pocket or in a plastic bag to keep it from leaking onto clothes.

Pack a compact mosquito net if international backpacking takes you to sub-Saharan Africa. ,, Some items you might want to consider are:
Lightweight sleeping bag.

Fork/spoon tool combination.

Bowl. , Experienced backpackers suggest:
Small LED flashlight.

Adapter if an international backpacking trip takes you to locations with different electrical currents and outlets.

Trip journal.

Tiny lock for locking backpack zippers shut.

If you check your backpack at the airport, make certain the lock is approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) so they can inspect your backpack without damaging it. ,

About the Author

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Brian Flores

Brian Flores has dedicated 1 years to mastering lifestyle and practical guides. As a content creator, Brian focuses on providing actionable tips and step-by-step guides.

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