Travel Packing List: What to Pack for Backpacking in Any Climate
This packlist is about items that make travelling easier. The products I recommend are chosen based on the best bang for the buck and lightweight design. It’s the result of thorough research on gear I’ve already tested — and I figured I’d share it.
I try to be as much of a minimalist as I can. That means I investigate each item carefully to make sure it fits my needs and offers the most value in terms of usefulness and price.
If you’re someone who prefers buying the absolute best regardless of cost, then this article probably isn’t for you.
Packing cubes
Provided that you haven’t already discovered the value of packing cubes, you should really check them out. They let you pack more efficiently and organize your gear far better. Buying packing cubes doesn’t mean you need to go for the most expensive ones to get great value — but only up to a certain price point. What you should look for is ultralight construction and durable, high-quality nylon.
Lightweight Compression Packing Cubes 7 set
Lightweight Compression Packing Cubes 4 set
Water Bottle
A good water bottle is essential for travel. It keeps your water cool in warm climates, and in many countries — especially across Europe — you can refill it straight from the tap.
Even in places where tap water isn’t drinkable, it still makes sense: just buy a large bottle of water to keep in your hotel room and refill your travel bottle as needed.
At airports, you can simply empty your bottle before going through security and refill it afterward — most terminals have water stations.
I recommend choosing a bottle that keeps water cool for up to 24 hours. Look for one that’s lightweight, durable, and easy to clean — stainless steel or insulated bottles are great options.
Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw
Powerbank
There are many powerbanks to choose from, ranging from 5 000 mAh (about one average smartphone charge) to 40 000 mAh. I find the sweet spot is around 20 000 mAh; it lets me charge my phone and earbuds, and still have enough power left for another day. After that they get way too bulky. If you are travelling with a computer and need a emergency power, there’s a product recommendation for you as well.
To squeeze a little more juice out of your battery pack:
- Use short, high-quality cables
- Charge your phone with the screen off
- Keep both the pack and your phone cool
Belkin Portable Charger, USB-C Power Bank 20000 mAh
UGREEN Powerbank 25,000mAh 145W Laptop Portable Charger
