The Ultimate Packing List for a First Time Backpacker

If you’re leaving your hometown behind and plane-hopping around the world for the first time ever, it can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. Backpacking across the globe is one of the most thrilling and adventure-filled things you could do in your life and there’s no doubt that your experience will be absolutely unforgettable. But it’s also natural to feel a little apprehensive and nervous too if you’re going it alone.

Here is the ultimate packing list to help you ensure that you’re well prepared for anything and everything on your travels.

Bags and Clothing

Your most important item is of course your backpack. This has to be able to serve you throughout your travels, whether you are away for 3 months, 12 months, or 2 years. If you still haven’t decided on your backpack, visit Nomadic Matt’s blog to get help in choosing one. In terms of baggage/storage and clothing items, here are other things to bear in mind:

• Day bag – something smaller to carry during the day.
• Rain cover – you can’t predict the weather and even the hottest countries have rain storms!
• Rain coat – waterproofs are a must-have wherever you are. For lightweight, technical jackets, visit E-outdoor.
• Underwear and socks – bring enough to last you between washes
• Comfortable travel clothes – always pack for comfort when you are travelling and remember to pack for both extreme heat and extreme cold.
• Smart outfit – pack at least one smart outfit for evenings out or events that you might get invited to.
• Swimwear – for Australia or SEA, take a few pieces with you.
• Headwear – caps and hats can protect you from the heat so this is definitely something to consider.

Health / Medical

Looking after yourself when you’re travelling is essential. Here are some items to think about:

• Medication / vitamins – don’t forget to pack your daily medication or vitamins if you take any.
• Aspirin / Paracetemol – you never know when you might these.
• Sun cream – this is a must-pack item and can be very expensive to purchase abroad so make sure you pack enough to last a while.
• Insect repellent / mosquito nets – insect bites can be a big problem for some travellers. It’s important to remember that there are different types of insects, not just mosquitoes so try and look for multi-insect repellent sprays and lotions.
• Antihistamine cream – some people don’t react well to insect bites and if you should suffer from extreme itching or swelling, antihistamine creams can help relieve this. Find out more info on allergic reactions to insect bites on the NHS website.
• Other medication – don’t forget travel sickness tablets, diarrhoea tablets and rehydration sachets.
• First aid kit – decent first aid kits can be purchased from most good outdoor clothing shops.

Other Essentials

But the list doesn’t stop at clothing and medication. Here are other things to consider:

• Washing detergent – make sure you are able to wash your clothes wherever you are. Take a universal sink plug with you too and some lightweight laundry bags to keep your dirty laundry separated.
• Bar of soap – this will take up less room than shower gel and will last much longer.
• Nail scissors, razors and tweezers – don’t forget essential grooming items.
• Hand sanitizer – keep your hands free from bacteria and germs at all times.
• International plug adaptors – handy for charging phones or using a hairdryer.
• Travel locks – keep your belongings secure with travel locks for your backpack.

Small sewing kit – these take up very little space and can be bought from local supermarkets or haberdashery shops.