Backpacking in Southeast Asia: Packing Tips

Six months ago, I sat in despair on my living room floor, surrounded by my belongings. Clothing, camping equipment, electronics, books, and shoes (oh, so many shoes) littered every surface. How, I wondered, would I ever manage to narrow it all down to the few necessary items I'd need for a four-month trip backpacking across Southeast Asia?

For any backpacking trip, whether it be to Asia, Europe, Central America, Australia, etc., the space limitations are generally the same: one expedition-sized backpack and one day bag. Thinking of bringing an additional bag? Reconsider! I have countless entertaining memories of watching overladen backpackers struggle through crowded Asian streets, trying to avoid people, traffic, and pickpockets. Occasionally, I was one of them. Plus, if you plan to take advantage of one of the low-cost airlines that abound in Asia, the checked baggage weight limit is usually 15 kgs, or just over 33 pounds.

Four months of lugging too much stuff around the world has taught me one thing: pack light!

First things first: What NOT to pack for backpacking in Southeast Asia

1. More than one pair of sports sandals On my last trip, I brought a pair of sturdy flip-flops and my Chaco trail sandals. "I'll wear my Chacos when I go kayaking in Vietnam and tubing in Laos," I thought. Hardly. I wore the light, comfortable flip-flops everywhere--in the shower, out walking, to the beach, whitewhater rafting. In four months, I didn't even take the much heavier Chacos out of my pack, much less wear them. If you're planning to do some serious water sports, bring tough sandals. Otherwise, cheap flip-flops are more than adequate, and you can always find another pair in Asia to replace them when necessary. I'd much rather forget a pair of $5 Target flip-flops in a hostel than a $100 pair of Tevas!

2. A laptop/big, expensive camera Unless you are a professional writer or photographer, leave them at home! You'll spend more time worrying about where to store them (believe me, you won't want to carry them everywhere--even the lightest laptop gets heavy after 8 hours of walking) than you will actually use them. Hostels in Asia often advertise lockers, but they are frequently beat up and unmonitored. I tried this, and spent too much time worrying about whether or not someone had seen me stash my laptop and was, at that very moment, breaking in to take it. Internet cafes are literally everywhere. Store photos online with a service like Picasa, or load them onto your iPod (see Absolute Necessities section).

3. Anything you are uncomfortable wearing at home You know that pair of safari shorts hanging in the back of your closet? Leave them there! They will not miraculously become stylish, comfortable, and flattering upon arrival in Asia. Free up room in your backpack for fisherman's pants from Thailand or an amazing Lao wood carving.

4. White clothing In the heat, humidity, and dirty confines of your backpack, white clothing will not stay that way for long. Stick to colors that don't show dirt as well.

5. More than two books They're heavy, hostels often have book exchanges, and other travelers are always willing to trade. You'll never be without a supply of fresh reading material!

Absolute Necessities: What to pack for a backpacking trip in Southeast Asia

1. A cell phone with no service Hands down, this was one of the best things I brought when backpacking in Asia. This applies largely to solo travelers, but can also be useful if you will be alone at times. Originally, the plan was to use the phone to get numbers to call from my Skype account. (Great, free service, Skype. Check it out!) As it turns out, I didn't once use it for that purpose, but it proved to be a useful deterrent. As a solo, blonde, female traveler in Asia, I received a lot of unwelcome attention. The cell phone provided a non-confrontational way to get out of potentially dangerous or unwanted situations. (As a solo traveler, I try to avoid confrontations lest they lead to more dangerous situations.) My phone allowed me to avoid pushy street vendors, sketchy men, irritating tourists, etc. I'd simply pull it out, pretend to dial, and then hold a one-way conversation--an easy way to politely avoid making eye contact or conversation. It is also a way to conveniently let a lingering stranger know that you are not alone (even if you are) by saying loudly, "yes, I'm almost there," or "I'm walking down Center Street right now, and I'll meet you in five minutes." Why no service? I didn't want to actually use the phone, because it's too easy to disconnect from your traveling experience. Bring a cheap phone to which you are not attached--leave the fancy, thief-attracting iPhones at home!

2. An iPod with maximum memory and video capabilities The purist, idealist travelers out there will scoff at this one, saying, "but your iPod separates you from the culture." I absolutely agree, but on a multi-month trip, sometimes that separation is vital if you are to remain a tolerant, positive ambassador for your country. On days when you've been chased by street vendors, hunted for hours in the heat for an open hostel bed, and spent even more time throwing up last night's curry dinner, a retreat to your favorite music or a rerun of The Office is a lifesaver. An iPod (or other music device) will store your photos, serve as entertainment for long bus/boat/train rides, and is a great way to connect with other travelers and locals. Use your iPod as a connection--use one earbud and let your Thai seatmate listen to your favorite song with the other.

3. A sarong Use it as a scarf when it's cold, a cover-up for the beach, modesty when visiting temples, a light blanket for over-air-conditioned trains/buses, a sheet when the hostel bed/pillow doesn't look quite clean, something to sit on at outdoor events, an impromptu towel, something to wear back from the hostel shower...the list goes on and on.

4. A small camera and multiple large memory cards Buy one that allows you to change the resolution settings of your photos. It should be tough, light, and not so complicated that you'll never use it. I've used several models in the Canon PowerShot line, and have only good things to say. I've dropped them down cliffs, used them in rain and snow and sleet, shoved them in open backpack spaces---and they still perform beautifully. I do NOT recommend the Kodak EasyShare line, which doesn't tolerate rough use or exposure to water. Multiple memory cards allow you to take many photos without worrying about finding the next place to upload.

5. A microfiber towel In the humidity of Southeast Asia, regular towels are bulky and can stay wet for days. Microfiber towels are light, compact, and dry quickly.