“If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all your envies, jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness and fears.”
​-Cesare Pavese

Travelling light is the best thing that happened to me. No seriously, I am not sure I would have travelled as much if I would have kept carrying my 68L (super heavy) bag around. For those of you that have already travelled, were you not tired of packing and unpacking every day? Of having to constantly find a hotel to drop your bag or some sort of storage place. All the worries of being separated with your backpack since it is too big and goes on the roof of some local buses, where it gets all dirty and soaked from the rain?

Some of the gear here is the same that I use for my hiking gear list. There is a joy of having only what you need and leaving all the material stuff at home. As if a weight is lifted from your shoulder. Trust me, that feeling is stronger, the lighter you travel. So get lighter and fly away!

Backpack

Osprey Talon 22
I can only say good things about this pack. I have been using it intensively for years, and it is still going strong. The size is a bit big. Even when I bring a laptop, my gear floats in there, but the extra space (when you don’t fill it) is nice for food and gifts.

What I like

  • Just the right amount of pockets.
  • Dimension-wise, it counts as a personal item, not a carry-on. Which saves you money with low-cost airlines. (Cha-Ching!)
  • It still has a decent belt and frame for its size.
  • The stretching back pocket is quite useful on the fly.
  • Their All-mighty lifetime warranty. (They repair or replace any Osprey backpack for free, even if you bought it used.)

What can be improved

  • The side compression straps should reach higher.
  • I am not a big fan of velcro torso length adjustment.

Pants
These are my favourite pants for any adventure. It comes with a designed belt. Always useful to adjust those few pounds gained enjoying delicious food while travelling and the one lost trekking into wild places.

What I Like

  • Great for hiking (not too breezy, not too hot).
  • Super stretchy and durable (designed as rock climbing pants).
  • Very comfy.
  • Looks classy (good for all sorts of events).
  • You don't have to unbuckle the belt to open the pants.

What can be improved

  • Sometimes a leg hair gets caught in the material. (Ouch!) 
  • The provided belt loses up if you carry a heavy backpack.

Prana Stretch Zion

Shirt

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck
A great shirt that made its name through time, I found long sleeves to be more versatile. I bring two, one with a snug fit, the other one with a relaxed fit. This way, I can layer them in case of unexpected cold temperatures.

What I like

  • 1/4 zip is great for ventilating.
  • Thumps loops.
  • Sleeve stays when pulled up.
  • Nice fit.
  • It dries quickly.

What can be improved

  • I would add a little spandex to the material blend to make it a tiny bit stretchier.
  • The shirt could run a little longer since it tends to run up while wearing a backpack.

Warm Layer
This has been my go-to layer for years. Having no pockets doesn't bother me, I always use my pants pockets for everything. If you run cold, look for a 200 or any mid-weight fleece.

What I like

  • Simple and easy to wash.
  • Cheap.
  • Durable (perfect material to have your backpack rubbing against).
  • Dries super fast.

What could be improved

  • Nothing.

North face TKA 100 

Rain Jacket

Montbell Storm Cruiser Jacket
This is the ninth version of this jacket (it shows how popular it is). I prefer this jacket over the lighter alternative (sub 7 oz) for its durability, 3 layer fabric, and pit zip.

What I like

  • They use the "K-Mono Cut" which reduces seams.
  • Very good waterproofness. (I hope so, it is a rain jacket!)
  • The breathability is more than decent.
  • Full-featured (with pocket and pit zip).
  • Weight (at 10 oz it an impressive weight for a full-featured 20d, 3 Layers material).
  • Cheap (compared to other top quality jackets).

What could be improved

  • Hmmm (I am still trying to find something).

Rain Pants
When it comes to rain pants, I do need new ones! But the one I have never seems to retire. It has been over 5 years now, and they just have tiny holes close to the ankle.

What I like

  • Ankle zips.
  • Breaths well (thanks to the eVent).
  • Tough (unfortunately, when you want to upgrade).

What can be improved

  • Nowadays, there are much better options out there.
  • Heavy (11 oz).
  • Bulky.

REI eVent Pants 

Footwear

La Sportiva Bushido II
Trail runners are one of the most versatile footwear. It breaths, it grips, it dries quick. You can use them as much for hiking, running, or simply walking.

What I like

  • Durability (some of my pairs have lasted over 1500 km).
  • Traction is very good.
  • I like the stiffness of the shoe (sadly it goes away with time).
  • Good support.
  • Tight and precise footing.

What can be improved

  • A plain dark version would be nice. (It seems like trail runners always come in flashy colours.)

Socks
Nothing feels as comfy as merino wool when it comes to socks. But countless times I have gone through a pair because they lack in durability. That was until I came across Darn Tough socks. With their special material blend (merino wool, nylon, and lycra), I can have the pros of merino wool socks, without the cons.

What I like

  • Their legendary durability (you will get tired of the colour before they wear out).
  • Lifetime warranty. (Most shops that stock Darn Tough  will exchange them for free if yours are worn out. The best? No receipt needed!)
  • All the pros of merino wool without its fragility.

What can be improved

  • After thousands of kilometres, the material turns stiffer (I am sure any brand would get there if they would last that long).

Darn Tough Micro-crew light cushion

Headwear

Outdoor Research Visor
I never was a hat kinda guy, so visor just fits me well. For maximum protection, I use a Buff to protect my neck.

What I like

  • It can fold in half to fit in a pocket.
  • You can adjust the back (elastic always stretches with time).
  • Snug fit (won't fly away).

What can be improved

  • Your hair can look quite messy, but I guess that more a hair issue than the visor. It seems like I need a hair cut and I really don't have anything bad to say.

Neckwear
I always carry with me a Buff on every adventure. The weight of this piece of gear is very minimal for its outstanding versatility.

What I like

  • Enough designs and colours to fit every personality.
  • Great protection against the sun, the wind, and the cold.
  • Very versatile (can be used as headwear, neckwear, etc.)

What can be improved

  • Nothing.

Merino Wool Buff

Underwear

Saxx Quest 2.0
ExOfficio used to be my go-to underwear, but that was until I tried the Saxx undies. Since then, I have a hard time wearing out my last ExOfficio pair since I always have Saxx underwear on.

What I Like

  • Their ballpark pouch does a great job at keeping everything in place.
  • Waist elastic don't loosen up too much with time.
  • Snug fit.
  • They look good (who's gonna see them anyway, right?)

What can be improved

  • It is a slight step down in durability compared to ExOfficio.

Towel
I have been using this towel forever now. It is great! I would buy the same if its time comes. (I use the hand size.)

What I Like

  • Very small once rolled up.
  • The clip loop is useful for hanging.
  • Fast-drying.

What Could Be Improved

  • The hand size doesn't cover you completely. If you forgot your clean clothes, don't make a naked run to your room, hoping no one sees you, it never works... If you do often forget your clean clothes, do yourself a favour, just buy the body size.

MSR Packtowl Ultralite

Water Bottle

Smartwater 1L
I know this is a plastic bottle, but its size is perfect. I use them until they give up on life. It's my way to justify the use of a plastic bottle.

What I like

  • Slim (fits well in the side pocket of the backpack and in hands).
  • Truly closes (not like those bottles that if you tighten them too much they loosen back).
  • BPA free.
  • The opening fits with my filter.

What could be improved

  • Even if I reuse them a lot, they are still plastic bottles that don't last as long as hard shell Nalgene.

Water Filter
I have been using this filter for a while for my hiking gear. It is only recently that it struck me to use it for travelling. (About time!) 

What I like

  • Good flow (especially compared to Sawyer mini)
  • Does its job well (I have yet to get sick using this filter).
  • Its lifespan, sawyer claims it can filter 1 million gallons. (That's 2L a day for 1370 years!)
  • Better for the environment (no more plastic bottles).
  • Saves money (compared to constantly buying plastic water bottle)
  • Fits directly on my water bottle (for those lazy days).

What can be improved

  • Sometimes the filter has to be backwashed to remove clogs (to be expected with tiny filters).

Sawyer Squeeze

Electronics

Anker Powercore II 10000

A very good battery pack, it has fast charging, for your device and the battery itself. It can charge roughly 3 times my smartphone. LED indicates how much juice it still has. In my opinion, Anker does the best external batteries.

Smartphone

I use my smartphone for everything; pictures, books, emails, banking, mapping, writing, researching, listening to music, etc. I personally use Apple's iPhones, but this is simply my preference. (Let's not start the never-ending fight Samsung vs Apple.)

Lifeproof Case

Lifeproof holds its name well. It is waterproof, dustproof, snow proof, shock resistant, and has a full-screen cover. I have used those cases for a long time now. The only downside I have experienced is in order to be fully waterproof they have to cover the camera lens, which reduces the picture quality.

Goldfox Travel Adaptator

I found this on Amazon, it has an auto-reset fuse, so no more blown fuse in the middle of your trip. Has fast charging (2.4a) USB ports. You can plug a laptop and use the USB ports at the same time. It is a little bulky, but totally worth it.

Fenix HM50R Headlamp

This little guy has 500 lumens. It is very powerful for its size, it lasts up to 90h on the very low setting (enough for reading), totally waterproof and dust-proof (IP68). USB rechargeable so it works with the power bank above and actually uses the same cable (great one less cable to carry).

Apple Airpods

I never felt the need to have Bluetooth earphones until I actually tried it. Now, it would be hard to go back, I can charge my phone while listening to music and I love the freedom of movement. I chose Apple AirPods for its packing size, battery life, fast charging, sound quality, seamless connection with my iPhone. They are plenty of good options out there, shop around to find what works for you.

Misc

Earplugs

Have you ever woken up because of a 4am Islamic prayer or because of a couple arguing in the middle of the night? If you haven't, travelling will provide you with those experiences for sure. In some cases, earplugs might save your night. I usually bring 2 pairs, since sometimes they can cast a spell of invisibility and some morning, no matter how long I search, they have disappeared.

Eagle Creek Travel Lock

I don't use a lock very often anymore, even in a hostel. Since when I leave for the day, I always carry my backpack with me for food, warm clothes, water, electronics... After all this, I don't have much to lock up except maybe my toothbrush and they don't sell very well in the black market. So no reason someone steals that from me.

Recap

Packing

  • Backpack
  • Plastic bag liner or pack cover (for rain)
  • A few groceries plastic bags (for garbage)
  • Ziploc bags (for passport, electronics, toilet paper, toiletries, repair and aid kit)
  • A bunch of elastics (for rolled-up clothes, ziploc bags, charging cables, etc.)

Clothing

  • 2 Pairs of socks
  • 2 Underwear
  • A pair of pants
  • 2 Shirts
  • A fleece
  • Another fleece or a warmer down jacket (when travelling in cold places.)
  • Rain Jacket
  • Rain pants
  • Hat
  • Buff
  • Toque (if travelling in cold places)
  • Gloves (if travelling in cold places)

Hydratation

  • Water filter
  • Water bottle

Electronics

  • Smartphone
  • External battery
  • Charging cables
  • Wall adapter
  • Travel adapter (when needed)
  • Headlamp
  • Earphone

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Dental Floss
  • Deodorant
  • Soap 
  • Nail clipper
  • Lip Balm (with some SPF)
  • A Razor
  • Toilet Paper (not every place provides some)
  • Travel Towel
  • Baby wipes (for those nights without running water)
  • Cotton Swaps (rolled in plastic wrap)

Repair & Aid kit

  • 2 Sewing needles
  • Sewing Thread
  • 2-3 Alcohol wipes (individually sealed)
  • 2-3 Band-aids (different sizes)
  • 2 Second-skin (for blister or bigger wound)

Misc

  • Bank cards
  • A smile (it helps)
  • Driver licence (if planning to rent a car or a scooter)
  • Earplugs
  • Pen (for those immigration forms)
  • Passport (if you do want to travel)
  • Small Padlock
  • Desire for adventure (you will need it!)
I have made a PDF version of this recap list. Great for printing or offline uses. 

Questions & Answers 
Q: where is your bathing suit?
A: If your entire trip is mostly on the beach, bring one. Outside of that, I usually use my underwear (even for diving trips).
Q: Only 2 shirts?
A: To be honest, I have done some trips with only one (Ewww, that's gross!), but two shirts are the most versatile. You wear one, wash it, while it dries, you wear the other one.
Q: Only 1 pair of pants?
A: I personally don't sweat from the legs, do you? My pants usually get dirty on the outside from dust, stain, etc. In those cases a spot wash is the best, on long trips, I might wash my pants a few times. When that happens, I wear my rain pants (in cold weather) while they dry, or I simply put them back on when wet (in hot weather).
Q: no flip-flop?
A: I am one of those people that can't manage to walk (elegantly) in flip-flops. While travelling you get people stepping on your toes in crowded buses, broken glass is found everywhere, you can get foot infection if you have even the smallest scratch. With shoes, I am ready no matter what. I can properly run, if I am about to miss a bus, I have better traction, I can walk far and comfortably. On the beach? I simply go barefoot. 
Q: Why do you choose synthetic over merino wool for shirts?
A: I used to be a big merino fan, but in my experience; it costs more, it weighs more, takes longer to dry, needs some special care when washing, and doesn't last as long as synthetics (especially the 150). Yes, it has a softer touch and better odour resistance. In my opinion, the cons outweigh the pros and don't justify the price tag. The exception is if you travel in very humid, cold, and rainy places. Then, I do believe wool to be a better choice. That being said, merino wool is still a great choice for travelling, it simply comes down to our own preference.
Q: Would a pocket knife not be useful?
A: It would, but that obligates you to check-in your luggage, which kills one of the advantages of travelling light. When I plan to stay long enough in a country, I usually buy a cheap foldable knife at a market (to use for fruit for example). I give it to someone before I leave.
Q: Why are you not using T-Shirt?
A: I found long sleeves to be more versatile and to be better protection against the sun and the bugs. I just pull the sleeves up and unzip the neck when I'm warm.
Q: Why don't you carry a proper camera?
A: I used to have a DSLR, but not anymore. I started to leave it behind because of its bulkiness and weight. Sometimes I even missed a good photo opportunity because it took so long to be ready to shoot with it. Seeing how far smartphones have come, I now use mine as my main camera. The quality they provide is more than enough for most, even for a blog like this one. Many of the pictures on this website have been taken by a smartphone. Can you tell the difference?

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