Lets talk about backpack travel. Many people do it, but sometimes it can seem daunting. I mean for real, what all do you even bring with you to be able to live out of a literal bag? Is backpacking only for a certain age group? Is it only for people who can’t afford the fancy shmancy stuff?

These are all questions that i’ll answer for you. First of all, lets get rid of the stigma that only young and broke people travel via backpacking. Backpacking is for everyone. It’s an experience that you can’t get quite anywhere else. Sometimes it can even be humbling to know that you don’t need much to thrive.

I’m going to list what I personally think should be your ultimate essentials for your backpack. First of all, stay charged. Get yourself a power bank, an extension cord and maybe even an international adapter. Next, always consider health. I keep a small first-aid kit in my backpack that is equipped to help with minor injuries/headaches/vitamins. Think about safety, one of my favorite knickknacks to have in my pack is a security lock. Lock your valuables up into a safe locker at the hostile so you don’t have to worry about it while you’re out experiencing travel. I recommend having a compact travel clothes line and a quick-dry, light weight travel towel.

Other than that, just pack enough clothes to last five days. You can wash your clothes in a sink or a bathtub if a washing machine isn’t available. This way, you’re not overpacking. If you ever get the chance to travel via backpack, take it! Here is a link to my favorite travel backpacks. Enjoy!

-H