Packing List
I went to Europe for 4 months in 2006. I took 2 bags weighing 50 pounds each. I was there for two seasons – Fall and Winter, both of which were characterized by mild weather. I did not take my own food or bedding.
Now I am going to 11 different countries, will probably experience all four seasons (with extremes of heat and cold), will have to bring some of my own shelter, bedding, and cooking utensils, and it will all need to fit in one bag weighing no more than 40 pounds! I’m sort of thinking my complete collection of Vera Bradley handbags and coordinating flip-flops will have to stay behind.
That was a joke. I do not and never have owned anything Vera Bradley. And I am very much okay with that.
As I mentioned in an earlier blog, I am no outdoor expert. I have already wandered through a few outfitter stores just kind of staring at shelves of stuff. In other words, I’m open to advice. I am also trying to do this as cheaply as possible, which means I am not opposed to begging, borrowing, and bargaining.
So here is my list of basic gear, excluding the small items I can buy at Target the week before the trip. This list comes from the World Race Packing List and includes some of their recommendations.
See something you have that I can borrow? Call me!
Have a good tip on purchasing a product below? Post a comment!
Have a good/bad personal experience with a product? Please share!
Would you like to donate a new item from my list? Great!
See something that is not on the list but should be? Lemme know!
Got a coupon in the mail for an outfitter store you won’t use? Send it my way!
Internal Frame Backpack (This is likely an item I will purchase and not borrow. )
- between 4,200 and 5,000 cubit inches
- many packs that are appropriate are labeled “Week-long Packs”
Other travel gear
- pack duffle or “airporter” – bag that fits over pack for checking at airports
- rain cover for pack
Camping Supplies
- 2-person, freestanding tent with rain fly and adequate ventilation (cannot be staked!)
- footprint (material that goes between tent and ground/floor)
- sleeping bag rated for 35 degrees or cooler
- sleeping pad
- pocket multi-tool or knife
- headlamp
- universal outlet converter
- travel locks
- small passport/ID holder
- eating utensils (plate, silverware, mug, bowl)
- stuff sacks
