Checklist of Items Every Backpacker Needs

✅ Backpack & Storage

• Main backpack (40–60L, carry-on size if possible)
  
  
• Small foldable daypack
  
  
• Small essentials bag / funny pack
  
  
• Waterproof backpack cover
  
  
• Packing cubes / separators
  

✅ Clothing

Don't overpack, laundries are affordable (many times free) and everywhere.
You don't need 63 t-shirts and 17 pair of shoes - you are a backpacker not a Zara outlet. Pack smart, not heavy - you can always buy clothes on the road if needed.

• Underwear, lightweight pants/shorts, t-shirts
  

• 2x Swimwear

• Light jacket or sweater

• Rain jacket or poncho

• Flip-flops + sturdy walking shoes

✅ Travel Essentials

• Passport + copies (digital + physical)

• Travel insurance

• Debit/credit cards

• Emergency Cash (USD)
  
  

• International power adapter

• Phone + charger + power bank

• Lightweight travel towel (microfiber)

✅ Dopp Kit

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Hand sanitizer (small spray is ideal)
  
  

• Sunscreen

• Face lotion
  
  
• Nail clippers
  
  
• Electric razor / normal razor
  
  

• Mosquito repellent
  Don't bring with you, you can find them everywhere in SE Asia - cheaper ones that smell better! 
  

✅ Extras & Tools

• Dry bag (for electronics/valuables)

• Lock (for hostel lockers)

• Headlamp
  

• Earplugs + eye mask

✅ Med Pouch 

Looking for a pharmacy in remote islands because your stomach is exploding isn't fun. A simple light Med pouch is essential and can save you from lot's of drama.

• Paracetamol -> painkiller

• Pepto-Bismol -> for diarrhea, upset stomach

• Azithromycin or Ciprofloxacin -> Broad antibiotics
  
  
• Dramamin -> motion sickness
   
• Bandages / Tape
  

✅ Optional but Useful

• Water purification tablets
  
  
• Reusable water bottle (filtered if possible)
  
  

• Kindle or e-reader
  

• Lightweight sleeping bag liner

• Travel cutlery / spork / chopsticks 

• Backup debit/credit card