The Ultimate Backpacking Guide for Independent Travelers

Independent travellers often have a very tough time arranging their travelling backpack. It is not because these travellers are not used to packing, but because most travellers are used to travel in groups. With a sudden change in plans, some travellers decide to explore the world alone and boost their confidence by travelling alone. However, when you are travelling alone, you need to be more careful about what you choose to pack as you won’t have a partner to ask for the things you don’t have. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean that you overburden your shoulders by filling up your bag with unnecessary things. This backpacking guide will definitely help you through the confusion.

Buying A Good Backpack

Buying A Good Backpack

The first most important thing is to find a quality backpack according to your travelling needs. You should know that a nice backpack will not come cheap as it will be with you on every trip for years. Size, quality, comfort, and purpose are some major factors to consider before investing in a backpack. Make sure you choose the right size depending on how long your trip is. For example, if you are going for a week, don’t get a bag more than 40L. If you are going for a month 75L will be fine. The bag should be weather resistant and durable with comfortable usage and carrying.

Clothing

The type and number of clothes you will take with you depending on where you are going. For example, if you are taking cheap PIA flights to see the northern areas of Pakistan, you may need jackets and sweaters as well. For colder regions, make sure you have 4 to 5 pair of socks, at least 2 sweaters, a jacket, a raincoat, and shoes. However, if you are going to a tropical area, you will need to pack casual shirts, tops, shorts, pants, and slippers.

Toiletries

Try to limit your toiletries because you can easily buy them after reaching your destination. If you are travelling internationally, then you may need to make sure you have everything you need on-board including tissue papers, moisturizers, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, night cream, mosquito repellent, sanitizer, perfumes, and deodorants.

Electronics

Every new place that you visit may have different electrical voltage and different type of sockets for operating their electrical items. Make sure that you have outlet plug adapters to make things work. You can also pack a travel power strip with you. Pack a portable charger, headphones, e-reader, tablet, digital camera, smart luggage locks, memory cards, and external hard drives with you.

What Not to Pack?

While you have a complete list of the things you have to pack, you should also know what you shouldn’t carry in your backpack. Unless you do not plan on camping on your way back from the hike, you don’t need a sleeping bag or sleeping pad. Don’t pack your books because most hotels and lodges have their own collection of books for readers.