Whether you’re going away for a few months on your gap yearorsimply heading away from Western civilization for a couple of weeks, the idea of suddenly consolidating your entire wardrobe to fit into a 50 liter backpack can seem like a very daunting task for any girl, especially those who regard themselves as fashion forward!
But never fear! Even if you have more shoes than sense, or you can’t imagine ever being able to travel light, this guide will help you choose what to pack for your trip!
What to wear!
Colour theme: The key to packing light is choosing a few main items in just one base color and mixing and matching with other pieces in interchangeable accent colours. This will stop you taking, for example, a pair of shorts that look garish with all of your tops bar one, which would be a complete waste of packing space. A great idea is to select brown for your base items (such as shorts, skirts and trousers) and then pack matching vests, sandals and accessories in a range of whites, creams, golds, turquoises and blues (all colours that look FAB with a tan!)
Tops: Pack only plain coloured vest tops and t-shirts,as these can be worn interchangeably with shorts and trousers in the day, but dressed up with jewelry in the evening, if required. Remember to pack at least one long sleeved top to wear at holy places or when visiting in Muslim countries.
Underwear: Girls’ underwear doesn’t take up much room in a suitcase, so you can afford to pack around a week or two’s worth. A backpacking trip really is not the time to test out a fancy new bra, so I’d suggest you pack two that are supportive and comfortable.
Shoes: If you’re trekking, you’ll need a comfortable and robust pair of boots for walking. We also recommend you pack some casual shoes too: comfy flip-flops or crocs will be great for the beach and a pair of glam golden gladiator sandals will look fab worn with a dress in the evening, but won’t take up much room in your bag. It goes without saying that heels are out!
Dresses: Ensure you have room for a couple of pretty, colourful dresses to sling on after a day at the beach, or to wear at a party. A printed maxi dress will look fantastic of an evening, but they can also be worn over a light, long sleeved white shirt if you’re visiting a Muslim country or place of worship.
Accessories: A sarong is a must have. These can be used to drape over bare shoulders when you’re expected to cover up, they can be used as an impromptu pillow, or they can double up a blanket for cool evenings.Of course, they’re perfect to provide a bit of cover on the beach too!
Jewellery: A few big, bright, bold chunky bangles and necklaces will instantly update your outfit for an evening of drinks, or for a meal out. Do leave room for the inevitable pieces you’ll want to bring home from visits to markets.
Hat/Scarf/Bandana: You ought to pack a hat to keep your face from burning. Of course, a hat can also disguise a multitude of bad hair day sins too. A small bandana or scarf is great for tying rogue fringes and pesky layers back off your face.
Make up and toiletries:
Make up & cosmetics: Only take a few real basics to ensure you look tiptop in pictures (unless you’re happy to go bare!)You shouldn’t need more than a small compact of powder (with a mirror), a sun protecting and moisturising lip balm and a tube of mascara. Do pack a bottle of moisturising sunscreen too. Finally, pack one small pot of bright nail polish (in your color scheme) – a slick of polish works wonders to hide the filth that inevitably gets ingrained in finger and toe nail beds!
Tampons: Far more backpacking-friendly than their cousins, the sanitary pads! Work out how many you’ll need and count them out before you go, plus a couple of extra ones just in case! Good, affordable tampons from familiar brands can be difficult to find abroad.
Haircare: Forget whatever haircare regime you put your tresses through nowand buy a bottle of 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner and a little travel sized bottle for decanting. Remember to make it stretch during your trip!
Waxing/Shaving: Although there’s some leeway with how much stubble you can get away with while backpacking, you’ll probably still want to take a few razors and waxing strips with you anyway, especially if you’re planning to spend time at the beach.
Those misc must haves:
Head torch: A good quality, tried and tested head torch with a fully charged battery is imperative for late night toilet visits!
First aid kit: Remember to source a good, well-stocked first aid kit, ideally a travel sized one that contains plasters, antibacterial wipes, insect replant wipes, safety pins, scissors, gloves, bandages, microporous tape (which can come in handy for a multitude of problems!) and dressings. Some kits contain whistles, which would come in handy to alert people you’re in danger, should such a situation arise. Finally, a very small, basic sewing kit with a few spare buttons might also be worth adding into your bag.
About the Author:
Community Manager @ AsiaRooms.com . Born in Lithuania (love it!), studied in the UK, traveled around Asia and USA, taught in Africa and now residing in Singapore where, equipped with a strong cup of coffee and surrounded by an amazing team I’m blogging about travels, cultures, events and hotels in Asia.
