Packing our bags
Packing for such a long trip and so many climates has proved very challenging - particularly as we both tend to err on the side of overpacking.
We will be leaving the UK and travelling through Europe in winter, as well as going to high altitude and mountainous regions throughout central Asia, before arriving in tropical climates in Southeast Asia where we'll be wanting to swap out our winter coats and boots for bikinis and flip-flops. Whilst we will probably leave some clothes along the way, we need to pack to prepare for lots of different climates and occasions.
Important stuff
Passport
Photocopies of passport
Emergency dollars stashed away
Vaccine certificates
Phone and charger
Portable charger
Adaptor
Bags
Big backpack (approx. 60 litres) & waterproof bag cover
Day pack (approx. 20 litres) & waterproof bag cover
Bumbag
Under bumbag (to hide money and passport under clothes)
Tote bag
Shoes
Walking boots
Lightweight trainers
Flip-flops/sandals
Clothes
Puffer coat (with stuff sack)
Waterproof coat and trousers
Warm layer (eg fleece)
Underwear (including walking socks)
Trousers (one thin, one warm)
Shorts
Vest tops
T-shirts
Warm top
Dress
Swimsuit & sarong
Sports leggings & shorts
Accessories
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Warm hat & gloves
Wash bag
Toiletries/pharmacy
Personal medication
First aid supplies (painkillers, plasters, antiseptic etc)
Insect repellent
Solid soap, shampoo & conditioner (with tins)
Mini hairbrush
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Travel hand wash for clothes
Suncream
Miscellaneous
Camera and charger
Diary/sketchbook, pen, pencils & mini paints
Book
Snorkel
Mini binoculars
Laundry bag
Eye mask & ear plugs
Travel/neck pillow
Sleeping bag liner
Lightweight sleeping bag (for high altitude hostels and night buses)
Mosquito net
Dry bag
Head torch
Plastic bags (for wet stuff - v useful!)
Ear phones
Travel towel
This sounds like a lot but I'm always surprised at what can fit in a backpack when packed efficiently. Our top-tip - use packing cubes.
Dora