My Go-To Travel Essentials

This page holds my veryyyy detailed list of travel essentials.

Here you’ll find everything I bring on quick trips and for extended backpacking travels: my favourite travel bags, my natural travel products/toiletries + holistic medicine choices, helpful packing guides for destinations around the world, go-to travel shoes, and much more.

Skip ahead to

Related Posts

More posts like this coming soon.

Trustworthy Travel Insurance Companies

Popular & trusted companies used by backpackers around the world.

How to Travel with Contacts

Soft lenses, RGPs, sclerals, and where to find contact solution abroad.

Favourite Travel bags

I always opt to use a backpack over a suitcase while travelling. The bags below are what I bring on 99% of my trips. No matter where I’m going or what I’m doing these bags always seem to be the perfect combo for functionality.

Security is very important to me. I travel with these luggage locks and always keep my backpacks locked in public spaces/hostels. I also use this Pacsafe exo-mesh for enhanced anti-theft properties; 85L size exo-mesh for my rectangular shaped 45L backpack. The exo-mesh is helpful for sleeping in airports and times when you must leave your luggage in unsecured locations while you’re away (like on this Albania hike or taking off for a motorbike loop in Vietnam).

Patagonia 45L Cragsmith this bag is ever-so-slightly oversized for carry-on, but I always get away with it as long as I’m not flying budget (like Ryanair). The bag’s back panel opens fully like a suitcase allowing complete access to the internal contents, there’s a top pocket large enough to store all my odds & ends, external straps for attaching shoes, and it has a chest & waist strap. This bag is the ULTIMATE backpacking bag for storage and functionality, in my opinion.

• Links to the Cragsmith at Patagonia Canada and Patagonia USA

Osprey Sirrus 24L: I’ve used this bag (men’s version) for the past 4+ years and have travelled and hiked all over the world with it. It’s the optimal personal item size for flying, it has all the features of a technical hiking pack, yet its small size makes it easy to bring anywhere. I can stuff a surprising amount of things in it and it also has external straps for carrying shoes. I love this bag so much I purchased the 36L version too for light overnight camping trips and winter hiking.

Patagonia 27L Black Hole Tote: I always bring a tote bag for beach days or wandering the city (mainly to avoid back sweat in hot climates). The Black Hole is water resistant, has large external pockets for water bottles, zips closed, has an exterior laptop sleeve, an internal hanging pocket, and also has backpack straps. Its ability to pack down into its own pocket means it easily fits in my Cragsmith bag alongside my other belongings when I’m not actively using it. The Black Hole Tote also works as an alternate carry-on bag if I ever need to check my larger backpack.

• links to the Black Hole at Patagonia Canada and Patagonia USA

Lululemon fanny pack: I literally never leave the house without this fanny pack. It’s made of high quality materials and has external/internal pockets. The strap is sturdy and can be adjusted to wear as a sling or as a tight waist belt bag which is great if you’re running or biking. I also always keep this 500ml water bag in it for an easy-to-carry water option.

Osprey Fairview 55L: a popular choice for backpackers is this backpack (men’s version). It’s very similar to the Cragsmith, with the difference of a detachable 15L daypack meaning you can carry both your bags on your back rather than having to carry one on both your back and frontside. I opt for the two separate bags mentioned above as I prefer more technical features in my daily hiking pack, but this one would be my #2 choice.

PRO TIP: bring a waterproof rain cover for each backpack. These backpack covers are priced affordably, come in various colours, and sizes range from 15L-90L.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Documents

I recommend making multiple copies of your documents before you leave to go travelling. I personally bring a photocopied version (in colour) of every document listed below stored in a sturdy ziplock. I also have photos of these documents on my phone and I leave a photocopied version at home with family members. NEVER put these documents in checked bags and always keep them locked up if you’re staying in public spaces like hostels.

• Cash – not a document but I always try to obtain local currency before or shortly after arrival in a new country. I also travel with $100 in USD at all times for things like passports on-arrival.
• Passport
• Drivers license and identity card (for Europeans)
• Debit and credit cards
• Vaccination card
• Birth certificate
• Health card
• Additional licenses (ie, a boating license)
• Travel insurance – the travel insurance companies I recommend can be found in this post
• Extra passport photos – certain countries require you to have passport photos pre-printed prior to arrival (ensure they’re taken within a 6 month window of arrival and follow the local companies passport photos size requirements)

It’s also a good idea to obtain an IDP (International Driving Permit) before you travel. This permit is recognized in 150+ countries. You are legally not allowed to drive in many countries without one. They are typically inexpensive and can be obtained quickly. They last for 1 year at the time of registration.

Canadians pals – here’s information for obtaining an IDP in the great white north.

My favourite security products can be found below.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Toiletries

I am the toiletry queen. Having natural products and sustainable toiletries is my biggest priority during packing – I feel I’ve found the perfect combo.

Skip ahead to my wellness section which outlines the oils and supplements I bring to stay healthy on-the-go.

PRO TIP – buy aluminum containers you can store smaller amounts of your toiletries in (ie. toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc) for shorter trips or carry-on travel. I use these 15ml containers and these 2oz containers.

What’s in my Shower Bag

I use a small mesh bag like this to keep shower-only items. Everything else stays in my toiletry bag and the shower bag only comes out when I’m washing my hair. The items in this bag are:

• Shower cap
• Scrub mitt – I use a compact hemp scrub mitt, like this, from the Body Shop for a body exfoliant.
• Face loofah – I bring one of these per every 2 months I’m travelling for a gentle facial exfoliant.
• Shampoo bar, conditioner bar, and leave-in conditioner (plus their travel tins) from my home country. Hair care bars can be difficult to find abroad. I’m picky so I bring everything with me and store the extras in a sturdy ziplock bag until I’m ready to use them. This is my fav Canadian brand for hair products (this isn’t even an affiliate link).
• Razor – if you’re travelling carry-on style you’ll have to purchase these when you land.

What’s in my Toiletry Bag

• Facial oils – I list information about my facial oils + travel supplements below
• Natural soap bar in a plastic soap container. I usually bring a few bars from home because I’m picky about this too.
• Bamboo toothbrushes and a toothbrush cover – toothbrushes are widely available everywhere, however I bring a few months supply so I don’t have to worry about scouring the city to find bamboo options.
• Toothpaste – I use natural brands and fill these containers for carry-on purposes.
• Toothpaste tablets – I love these tablets. They’re perfect to bring on hikes or at the airport. I transfer them to a small plastic bag to reduce storage size and weight.
• Tongue scraper – I use this one in the morning to scrape away overnight toxin buildup.
• Deodorant – I use a travel size salt stick. It sounds weird, I know, but it’s designed to cleanse your pit’s pores rather than clog them like traditional deodorant.
• Lip balm – I make my own and bring one for every bag.
• Nail clippers and tweezers – spend the extra money and purchase high quality ones so they actually work. I’ve used these tweezers for years. They’re bomb proof.
• Reusable Q-tip – I bought a reusable Q tip set and I bring 1 to save space – not the whole package. I then wrap TP around the Q tip to clean my ears.
• Hair ties – bring more than you think you’ll need and clip them together with a carabiner – thank me later. I also bring elastic spiral hair ties as they prevent hair breakage.
• Large hair clip
• Hair brush – my curly hair requires only a finger brush when I wash it so I don’t pack a brush.
• Diva cup – I’ve been using this for years and my periods are no longer an issue when travelling. In some countries it’s very hard to find tampons.
• Sunscreen – I make my own face sunscreen and package it in this container. I do not use body sunscreen, but I limit sun exposure by using long sleeve shirts, hats, and pants instead which I find more comfortable and convenient.

I also try to pack in advance or purchase upon arrival one of the following sprays: rose water, witch hazel (alcohol free), or colloidal silver. These three liquids are great for skincare, sunburns, cuts, and general health & wellness.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Travelling With Contacts/Glasses

I’ve worn many types of contacts from soft and RGP lenses to sclerals. From finding contact solution abroad to what to pack and cleaning protocols on-the-go – I list everything you need to know in this post.

Odds & Ends

These are all the random little things I’ve found helpful from road tripping in Norway to backpacking Southeast Asia.

Security is very important to me. I travel with these luggage locks and always keep my backpacks locked in public spaces/hostels. I also use this Pacsafe exo-mesh for enhanced anti-theft properties; 85L size exo-mesh for my rectangular shaped 45L backpack. The exo-mesh is helpful for sleeping in airports and times when you must leave your luggage in unsecured locations while you’re away (like on this Albania hike or taking off for a motorbike loop in Vietnam).

• Towels – this 24″ x 48″ microfibre towel (my preferred size for backpacking) is perfect for the beach and rolls up to almost nothing. I also bring a very thin cotton towel for showering. In many countries you can purchase multi-purpose sarongs for this.
• Earplugs and a silk sleeping mask – I pack 25 pairs of these ear plugs (for long-haul trips) which I find super comfy. I also wear a silk sleeping mask for skin health and cleanliness. I can’t sleep without these items on public transport or in hostels.
• 2 mesh laundry bags – I like this one with a zipper. 1 bag for laundry, 1 bag for organizing clothes/carrying them to hostel bathrooms.
• Fanny pack – I use the Lululemon fanny pack as my everyday “purse” + running/biking pack.
• 500ml silicone bag – I bring this water bag everywhere. It fits perfectly in my fanny pack so I can bring water without having to hold a bottle or bring a backpack to hold it.
• Aquatabs – these tabs give you the ability to filter water from organic material. I bring these on all my travels just in case.
• Tote bag – I talk about this bag in detail above, but this foldable tote/backpack combo bag comes with me everywhere. It’s perfect for a day of exploring cities, at the beach, hiking, on public transit, etc
• 3L Hydrapak – this silicone bladder is the only way I carry water on hikes.
• Stasher bags – I bring 1 snack size and 1 sandwich size bag. these bags are great for holding snacks, keeping electronics dry, and just about anything else.
• Bamboo cutlery and a reusable straw – this bamboo set includes a straw and straw cleaner. I don’t bring the knife.
• 750ml water bottle – I recommend this one for it’s size, screw-on lid (no leaks), and hot/cold abilities.
• Headlamp – I use this for hiking, getting ready in dark hostel rooms, and so many random little things. This model is a bit pricey, but it’s rechargeable, water resistant, and will last a lifetime. I researched this one for months before buying. 
• Backpack covers – bring a rain cover for each of your backpacks.
• Bug suit – If I’m visiting countries where mosquitos are an issue, a bug suit comes with me as I like this option better than bug spray or larger bug nets. It’s comfortable and easy to sleep in too.
• 400 page journal – with 3 pens. I prefer to bring 1 large journal like this one to avoid carrying multiple small journals.
• Sunglasses – I bring 1 pair of Oakley Sutro sunglasses (small size for women) and a second “stylish” pair. I also bring 2 microfibre glasses pouches and the Oakley hard case to store them in together.
• Jewelry – I bring my daily earrings and one silver chain with 3 gems I can rotate between (rose quartz, obsidian, and citrine – if you were wondering). I also have a tiny plastic box I store my jewelry and ear plugs in when I’m not using them so they don’t get lost.
• Laundry detergent – I’m all-natural, so I shredded 2 bars of this soap I could toss in with my laundry for a natural detergent option.
• Thin gloves – for cold destinations I bring these gloves (men’s version). Sometimes I bring a thin pair of wool glove liners to hot destinations for sun protection (ie. riding motorbikes in SE Asia).
• Condoms – pack some from your home country before you travel, just in case. In some countries it can be difficult to find proper condoms.
• Rain poncho – can be purchased in-person if required in a rainy country. I only do this when I need rain protection intermittently. For colder destinations I bring a waterproof jacket.
• Sturdy ziplock bags – I bring 2 medium and 2 large sizes.
• Collapsible silicone bowl with lid – this one is great for the most random things + eating in hotels.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Essential Oils | Wellness | Medication

Wellness on-the-go is SO important to me. Oftentimes travelling wears out your immune system so I’ve found compact ways to bring natural medication with me no matter where I go.

I do not use traditional Western medication. Instead I use a blend of diet, essential oils, daily practises, and supplements to help my immune system fight off ailments naturally. You therefore will not find any recommendations for things like Ibuprofen or Gravol here.

What’s mentioned below is NOT professional medical advice – but rather old remedies and plant knowledge that I and many others have found beneficial.

My Favourite Supplements for Travel

I bring up to 3 months of supplements (depending on trip length) from brands I trust and package them in smaller plastic bags + attach the original label to them. I then place my supplements in this small pill organizer so I only have to open the bags once every few days. I use this pill organizer for 2 week trips. The supplements I pack for travel are:

• Advanced B complex – I’m vegetarian.
• Omega 3 + vitamin D – for all around health and wellness + enhances skin immunity to sun.
• Advanced magnesium complex – regulates sleep, helps sore muscles, maintains bone density, regulates blood pressure, etc.
• Zinc-copper balance – immune support (I double up on these if I experience cold/flu symptoms).
• Probiotics – supports healthy gut flora – I’m a mess without probiotics so I usually mix in 2 brands for variety.
• Charcoal/ginger – relief for stomach cramps, bloating, indigestion, or any stomach ailment.
• I also take lutein/zeaxanthin (personal preference) as this helps with natural blue light defence. As a blogger I’m always in front of a screen.

Keep in mind many countries have their own local supplements that are helpful. For example in Southeast Asia Dengue and Malaria are an issue, but papaya leaf is a natural way to prevent/cure these diseases (this is not professional medical advice). You can purchase papaya leaf supplements locally.

Always purchase your supplements from a health food store and dish out the extra cash. The pricier brands are almost always higher quality and your body absorbs more of the supplement. My favourite brands are AOR and CanPrev.

My Favourite Essential Oils for Travel

I bring a mix of essential oils to handle everything from skincare, aftersun, and natural bug spray, to natural medication, dental hygiene, and perfume. Essential oils are how I’m able to bring an entire apothecary with me when I travel, with only a small amount of space.

These are my go-to essential oils – they MUST be mixed with a carrier oil, not applied directly. I aim for 15ml bottles which last forever. The following oils are commonly found in countries around the world.

• Lavender – the mother of all oils. Good for acne, redness and inflammation, sunburns, bug bites, sleep, anxiety and just about everything else.
• Roman Chamomile – specifically Roman. Is very similar to lavender for its properties. You don’t need both, but I like giving my skin a variety – like how you’d think about a diet.
• Clove – I add this to a morning oil pulling routine to whiten my teeth and prevent dental issues like tooth sensitivity. It’s also great for your immune system and can help with sore muscles and pain.
• Frankincense – the holy grail of skincare. Promotes tight and even skin (astringent properties), reduces puffy eyes, prevents aging and fine lines, reduces dark spots, heals acne and hormonal imbalances, etc etc etc.
• Peppermint/Rosemary/Eucalyptus blend – is my go-to for ailments. These 3 oils can be applied topically or inhaled via steam to help with nausea, congestion, coughs, plus all other general cold + flu symptoms. It’s best to mix these oils with a carrier oil in a roller for easy application to your temples which is helpful for headaches and motion sickness.
• Citronella & Eucalyptus blend – I don’t always bring this, but I do in mosquito heavy countries as a natural bug “spray.” It also smells nice and can be used as perfume.

I also try to pack in advance or purchase upon arrival one of the following sprays: rose water, witch hazel (alcohol free), or colloidal silver. These three liquids are great for skincare, sunburns, cuts, and general health & wellness.

My Favourite Carrier Oils for Travel

I also bring or purchase on arrival at least one high quality carrier oil for a face moisturizer. The oils I rotate between are all basic and can be purchased in most natural shops in most countries:

• Rosehip is typically my oil of choice as it’s light and helps repair damaged skin – even sun damaged skin. It’s also high in vitamin C and prevents ageing. I mix this with lavender, chamomile, and frankincense during the application process.
• Jojoba and Argan are also great choices as they double as skincare and haircare oils. Jojoba is great for hot, humid climates as it’s most similar to our natural sebum which regulates our own oil production.
• I purchase a raw, unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil whenever I land somewhere new to mix with other carrier/essential oils for a body moisturizer (not face*). I also use it every morning in an oil-pulling routine with clove oil.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Electronics

The following items are electronics I’d pack as a regular traveller – not with my travel blogging needs in mind. If you’re a fellow digital nomad reading this, my additional digital nomad tech needs are listed below.

I pack all electronics in a waterproof toiletry-style bag to keep things organized.

• International power adaptor – I like this one for how many charging ports it has so I can charge everything at once.
• Waterproof phone case – I never leave my phone at the beach unattended. I bring it in the water with me in this buoyant, waterproof case. It fits my iPhone 14 Pro Max with a large case.
• Smart phone & x2 charging cables – I have the iPhone 14 Pro Max which is too large (I used to be an Insta creator), but the iPhone 14 Pro I’d highly recommend for it’s compact size, camera quality, and the satellite function for remote, emergency communication if you’re a hiker.
  • I also ALWAYS bring a SIM card removal tool. These come in handy on every trip.
• Phone Lanyard – these lanyards seem dorky but they’re SO convenient and great for preventing phone theft or putting your phone down and forgetting it.
• Portable charger – I’ve been using this compact charger for years. Multiple charges, always reliable.
• Kindle: if you plan to read as you travel this is the best option as books are heavy, bulky, and hard to find on-the-go.
• Tripod – needs to be suitable for a phone and camera if you’re bringing both. I’ve linked the tripod I use in the camera section below.
• Headlamp – I purchased this headlamp for camping and sunrise hikes. I’ve since travelled all over the world with it and I’ve use it in a shocking amount of unexpected situations. This model is a bit pricey, but it’s rechargeable, water resistant, and will last a life time. I researched this for months before buying.
• Headphones – I bring 2 sets of apple headphones WITH chords. I don’t mess with AirPod radiation or the potential of losing cordless headphones.
• x3 USB charging cables – these cables always seem to break so I bring a few extra on every trip.
• Camera – more about this below.
• Action camera – I honestly don’t recommend bringing this unless you’re going to be doing a ton of diving or action sports where you’re not able to use a phone/camera. I have an Insta360 and a GoPro – GoPro is much better and takes up less space.
• Laptop – not required unless you’re sorting photos on an external hard drive or working online. If you prefer a larger screen for travel research or booking hotels/flights/etc, I’d suggest bringing an older iPad mini like this one instead of a laptop. Cheaper and smaller.

Which Camera I use for Travel

• Camera – I use the full frame, mirrorless Canon EOS RP body. It’s compact and for its price point it’s loaded with features and produces high quality images.
• Camera lenses – I use a combination of 3 lenses: 16mm (wide angle shots), 24-105mm (landscape and everyday), and a 50mm (portraits).
• Lens adaptor – a couple of my lenses are older (I previously used the 6D). I purchased this lens adaptor so I didn’t have to replace my old lenses.
• Camera batteries – I bring 6 batteries. Mirrorless batteries lose charge quick and I don’t always have access to charge batteries on-the-go.
• Charging dock – I bring this compact 2 slot charging dock with me so I can quickly charge 2 batteries at once.

My go-to Camera Accessories

• SD cards – I bring multiple Sandisk Extreme Pro SD cards for their fast speed. I usually use cards with max 128GB – I don’t like to store everything on one card in case I lose it.
• Capture Clip – this little clip holds your camera and attaches to your backpack straps allowing you easy access to your camera without having to remove your pack on hikes.
• Camera strap – I prefer this strap over the stock Canon straps.
• Shutter remote & extra battery – I use the Canon brand remote (or Canon app) + tripod combo for moments of solo portrait photography.
• ND filter – chasing waterfalls? I use this filter with my 24-105mm lens to adjust exposure and capture smooth flowing water pictures even in broad daylight.
• Tripod – this is overkill for most travellers, but I use this tripod (carbon-fibre version) which is quite heavy and large compared to a phone tripod, but it’s durable, quick to setup, and I never have to worry about it falling with my camera attached. It also has a built in phone holder so it’s a 2-in-1.
• Microfibre cloths – I bring multiple and leave them in every bag so I always have one handy.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Shoes

I rotate between trail runners, sandals, crocs, and hiking shoes – nothing else. I try to only bring 2 pairs of shoes whenever I travel, but depending on the climate and activities I’ll be engaging in, sometimes (on rare occasion) 3-4 pairs are required.

Sandals: opt for sturdy, comfortable sandals you can walk far distances in. I like this model (men’s version) as they’re super sturdy and can be worn in water which is great for beach days and showers.

Trail runners are more comfortable and last longer than running shoes. I love anything Salomon when it comes to trail runners and switch up the model depending on travel activities. For hiking-heavy trips I like this model (men’s version), whereas when I need more of an everyday shoe I use this model (men’s version). In colder climates I opt for the Goretex model, in hot climates I opt for the regular model.

Hiking boots: for trips when my main activity is hiking I break out my hiking boots. I’ve been using this model (men’s version) which are pricey but last for years and can comfortably tear through any terrain. I beat the crap out of my hiking boots on all kinds of terrain, over crazy distances, and in every climate. I can usually get 3 seasons out of them – clocking in 1,000kms+ by the end.

Crocs: I LOVE a good pair of Crocs for showering, beach days, slippers, or just generally walking around. If they weren’t so bulky I’d bring them everywhere, however due to their size I have to save them for trips where I have extra luggage space or won’t be frequently using airlines for travel – I can’t always have them strapped to the outside of my pack. I like the all-terrain model (Canada link | USA link) as they have adjustable straps and extra-thick grip so they last longer.

For socks, I bring max 3-4 pairs suited to the type of activities I’m doing and footwear I’m bringing. I only use Smartwool socks because they last forever and don’t need to be washed often. I usually opt for a medium level of cushion regardless of the climate. Crew length is my favourite, but this length is only necessary for hiking boots.

Clothing

I always use packing cubes – which I never recommend travelling without. These little guys keep you organized and keep your backpack from looking like a war zone.

I also recommend using a mesh bag with a zipper for laundry.

Unfortunately every trip is different when it comes to clothing so I can’t tell you want to pack, but I can give you pointers. Generally pack less, pack versatile clothing that matches multiple other items (ie. if you have a shirt that only matches one pair of pants, leave it), and try to plan trips around similar climates so you only need one season of clothes – don’t plan to visit Norway in the spring, followed up by Albania and Egypt in peak season (I did this on my first backpacking trip, whoops).

If you’re not sure what to pack, bring the essentials and purchase clothing when you arrive. I didn’t 100% know what to pack for my first backpacking trip to SE Asia, but I knew clothes there were cheap and would be suited to the local climate. I brought the necessities and waited until I arrived to get the rest.

Clothing Tips

• Materials: I love anything wool, linen, or loose-fitting cotton. Synthetic materials need to be washed more frequently and generally are not as functional as natural materials.
• Never bring: anything denim or large hoodies (if you’re backpacking). These items are bulky and heavy + you never really end up wearing them. There are way more functional items that could replace these options (ie. swap a hoody for a wool zip that offers comfort, can be used for the outdoors/hiking, plus offers variable levels of warmth).
• Favourite brands: I do shop locally in certain areas of the world, but generally for clothes I bring travelling I love the following brands: Patagonia for hiking pants & jackets. Fjallraven for mid layers, zip sweaters, and basic wool shirts. Kari Traa for base layers. Lululemon for tank tops. American Eagle/Arie for the odd cute piece and bikinis.

Favourite Clothing Items for Travel

If you’re travelling in colder climates unfortunately your focus is strictly on staying warm so some of the below is irrelevant. I usually bring a packable down jacket, insulated pants, and a waterproof jacket/pants to colder destinations. A toque, thin gloves, and extra socks are essential too. Wool base layers are dreamy as well because they provide so much warmth and take up so little space.

Loose fitting cotton/linen button-ups are my go-to. You can tie them up, wear them open, cover your skin in holy places, plus they double as a warm layer and a beach coverup. They’re my most used clothing item when I travel and you can usually buy them in any warm country.

Active wear that doubles as cute – my time is split equally between hiking and day-to-day activities when I travel. I therefore try to find clothing items I can wear on-the-trail, but also mix in with nicer outfits. A prime example of these clothing items are flowy athletic shorts and tight, cropped tank tops; the Lululemon align tops or lightweight cropped cotton tanks are my fav for this.

Bikinis – I bring extra in warm climates as you end up wearing them as underwear and bras most of the time. Less laundry and less bra packing.

Bras – adding onto this, the only bras I bring are cute sports bras that can double as tops, bikini tops, or ultra-light cotton bras (small boobs make this possible lol). I want my bras to be as multi-purpose as possible because they’re space-eaters.

Long sleeves – I bring a combination of thin wool long sleeves, sun shirts, and wool zip ups. You end up using long sleeves way more often than you’d think: sun protection (burns and prevention), travel days, cooler nights/mornings are just a few situations.

Long pants – I always bring at least 1 pair of summer hiking pants. Depending on the climate I’ll also bring or purchase high-wasted, flowy pants when I arrive. They’re more comfortable and take up less space in your bag than jeans or pants made of thicker fabrics. Plus they’re cute.

T shirts/shorts – I try to keep T shirts minimal as I prefer layering tank tops with loose cotton button ups, but I do bring 2 cropped Ts (black & white). For shorts I bring a couple athletic/cute pairs, 1 lightweight pair for sleeping, and depending on the culture I’m visiting potentially a couple pairs of flowy shorts. Sometimes it’s better to stick with pants for climate/cultural reasons though.

For everything else – dresses, skirts, sweaters, etc. You really have to pay attention to the climate and activities you plan to do. For example, I usually don’t pack skirts or dresses for travelling (even though they’re comfortable) because they’re bulky and can only be worn in a few situations. If you’re doubting something, leave it behind. Usually you won’t end up needing it and if you do, you can purchase it while you’re away. No sense in filling your valuable backpack space with “maybes.”

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Hiking Essentials

I literally do not leave home without these hiking items. They’ve become a part of me.

I only use Osprey hiking backpacks. I have 24L, 36L, and 55L technical bags from them that I absolutely adore and will use ’til the day I day. I have my favourite backpacks linked above.

I also always pack the following items for any trip that involves hiking:

• Aquatabs – these tabs give you the ability to filter water from organic material. I bring these on all my travels/hikes just in case
• 3L Hydrapak – this silicone bladder is the only way I carry water on hikes.
• Stasher bags – I bring 1 snack size and 1 sandwich size bag everywhere I go. these bags are great for holding snacks, keeping electronics dry, and just about anything else.
• Headlamp – I purchased this headlamp for camping and sunrise hikes. I’ve since travelled all over the world with it and I’ve use it in a shocking amount of unexpected situations. This model is a bit pricey, but it’s rechargeable, water resistant, and will last a life time. I researched this for months before buying.
• Backpack covers – bring a rain cover for each of your backpacks
• For safety – on hiking-heavy trips I bring a Garmin Inreach Mini and purchase Garmin’s Search and Rescue Insurance. This insurance is epic as it covers heli rescue costs for most countries around the world. No travel insurance company will cover this.

For my hiking footwear recommendations, scroll back.

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Digital Nomad

If it weren’t for my constant online presence, photo editing, and email sending type of activities there’s no way I’d bring the items below – especially on a backpacking trip. Since I do however make a living online, I pack the following items for every trip in addition to the electronics mentioned above.

• Laptop & charger – I personally use this laptop which I am absolutely obsessed with. It’s a bit overkill for what I do, but I wanted a good quality laptop that could process photos and do some video editing.
  • Laptop case – I use this case to protect my laptop on-the-go. It’s lightweight, water resistant, and has a front pocket where I keep my hard drive and scans of my important documents.
• External Hard drive – I use this 2TB SSD drive which is so fast and compact. I previously used HDD drives which are bulky and BREAKABLE + they’re unaffordably expensive to recover when they do (speaking from experience). Pay the extra for SSD drives.
• USB adaptor – I bring these teeny tiny USB adaptors. Not all laptops have USB ports so when transferring photos these come in handy.
• Laptop headphones – most laptops still have aux outlets for headphones so I bring one pair for this purpose.

If you’re into DIY I made my own blue light screen protector for my laptop using these sheets; I cut them to match the size of my screen, then used packing tape along the edges to fix all 4 of them together. It’s not perfect, but it’s the best blue light protection option I’ve found. Plus it’s ultra-light and takes up no extra space in your bag.

aaand that concludes everything I bring on a backpacking trip!

The Holistic Backpacker’s travel essentials

Recent Posts

• 
  How to Plan a Trip to Banff: Backpacking to Luxury Travel
• 
  Travel & Camping with Contacts (Scleral/RGP/Soft) + Finding Contact Solution
• 
  Local’s Guide to Skiing Sunshine Village, Banff
• 
  10+ Albania Hikes WORTH DOING
• 
  3 Day VALBONA ITINERARY (Albania): Hikes & Things to do
• 
  3 Day THETH ITINERARY (Albania): Hikes & Things to do