Packing Lists for Backpacking and Overland Travel

My Backpackers Packing List

(For an Overlanding Packing List, see below)

As a fairly seasoned traveller, my packing list for backpacking in India has been refined over the years to a careful choice of essentials and a few luxuries. A packing list is a very personal thing, but its contents will be of interest to others, and can be used as a starting point for crafting your own. Its amazing how poor some of the lists are in the travel guides. I hope mine will be more helpful.

Its important to note that there is no one ideal packing list. The contents will vary depending on where, when, and for how long you are going, and the type of travelling you are doing. This list is designed for a backpacker in Asia, travelling during the hotter months, and staying in budget accomodation. It would also be useful for someone in South America and parts of Africa, and could be adapted for Europe, Australasia, and North America.

This may seem like quite a long list, but it actually packs down quite small, and will leave quite a bit of room in a 60 litre backpack. Don't forget that it includes the things you are wearing, and the contents of your daypack.

When flying, kilos are king. You will probably want to bring back lots of souvenirs, but will be limited by your luggage allowance. If you are getting near the limit, better to discard or sell items you can easily replace at home: teeshirts, towel, toiletries, novels, old trainers, etc.

Rucksack	An important choice; it needs to be strong and durable to stand the misuses of porters, baggage handlers, cloakroom assistants, and others. The best choice is a pack that can be locked - essential for some left-luggage offices. Mine has a zippable cover that hides the shoulder straps if required - a good idea when flying, or when checking into those smarter hotels that discourage backpackers. How big a pack ? 60 litres is ideal; 80 is more likely.
Daysack	Some back-packing rucksacks include a daypack that zips on to the main pack - excellent for hands-free travelling. The rest of us wear them on our chests with the main pack behind, and look rather silly doing it.
Bag Labels	You should have a number of these for each of your bags, hidden both inside and out. Don't rely on a single outside tag - these can get torn off.
Mosquito Net and Cord	Not everyone carries a mosquito net, but for budget hotels in Asia they are quite essential, and I wouldn't go anywhere without one. The best type are the wedge-shaped ones; high at the head-end, low at the feet, they only require a single-point fixing - sometimes its hard to find more in a hotel room. Don't forget to tuck in under the mattress all around once you have got into bed. You will also need a length of cord or string to attach your net - about 3 or 4 metres sounds a lot but is often needed for high fixing-points.
Stuff Sacks	I like a number of these, big and small. They are useful for keeping small items together in your backpack, and help to find important items in a hurry. I keep one for dirty washing, one for medical and toiletries, and one for miscellaneous small things. Buy them at a camping store; the small ones are bank cash-bags, with an added draw-string.
Eye Shades	Very useful in a hotel room without curtains, or for napping on a bus or train. Available free on most long-haul airlines; the ones in first class are generally nicer, so keep an eye out for discarded ones as you leave the plane, or ask a stewardess.
Earplugs	Pretty much essential in Asia, where the noise can go on late at night and start again early next morning. Also handy for train or bus travel, and anywhere you want a bit of peace and quiet. I prefer the yellow foam ones, sold in Chemists or Builders Suppliers. They roll up in your fingers, then expand in the ear to fit your own shape. Take quite a few pairs - they are very light, can be washed, but get a bit ingrained after a while. Happiness is a new pair of earplugs!
Candles	Power cuts are frequent in many Asian countries, often when you are not expecting them! Some hotels will provide candles, but its better to have a small supply of your own, and some means of lighting them. How many to take with you ? - who can forget that '2 Ronnies' TV sketch, selling 'fork handles'.
Playing Cards	Another freebie from the long-haul airlines, a pack of playing cards is always a good addition to your pack, for solitaire in lonely hotel rooms, or more communal games. They make popular presents, too, as the local packs are often not plastic-coated, and soon deteriorate.
Towel	Not too big, not too small, not too thick or heavy. Something that will dry you all over, but won't fill your bag. I prefer one about 3x2 feet. You can get super lightweight technical towels, that pack away in no space at all, but I have never found them very pleasant to use. A standard towel is also nice to sit on during long train journeys and un-padded seats.
Washing Powder	A small plastic 'Tupperware' box makes a handy and secure container for this vital commodity. You will be doing your own laundry in various buckets and hand basins, so you'll have to have your own supply. The local powder, in plastic bags, can often burst, and will make a horrible mess in your pack.
Washing Line	You'll often be drying clothes overnight, when you already have your mosquito-net up, so you'll need a second 4 metre length of cord for this purpose. I've sometimes needed it for the mosquito net too, where the only fixing points were at diagonal ends of the bed: a cord fastened to a cord. Get a longer one than you think you'll need; its surprising how bits get cut off along the way, to act as replacement camera straps, drawstrings, pack repairs, etc.
Rubber Circles	Fact of life: cheap hotel washbasins never have plugs. It is possible to go into a camping shop and buy a so-called 'Universal Basin Plug'; they do fit most basins by simply being big enough to cover most plug holes, but their disadvantage is that its easy to dislodge them when doing your laundry - the day it happens will be when you are using your last pinch of detergent. I prefer to find an old bicycle inner-tube, and cut out 3 rubber circles of varying sizes. They go inside the plug hole, and are held against the grill by water pressure.
Vaccination Certificate	In a private area of your backpack, well away from normal traffic, you can keep those important documents needed in an emergency. When you get injections, make sure they are entered on a recognised 'International Vaccination Certificate', available from some travel-health clinics or national medical bureaus for a small charge. Proof of injections is essential at some borders; if you don't have them, they will give you the injections again, at a high cost, and often with second-use needles. Some people take a needle-kit from home, but in Asia its generally easy to buy them over the counter.
Travellers Cheque Registration	You get this when you buy your TC's. Make sure you keep it separate from the TC's themselves, as you'll need it to get a reimbursement if they are stolen. If you have a web-based email account, another idea is to send yourself an email with the TC details on, that you can access from any Internet Cafe. Keep a note of contact telephone numbers and addresses for the countries you are going to as well.
Passport Copy	Useful if your passport is stolen; essential in South America to show to Police and other officials, who would prefer to confiscate your real passport and sell it back to you. A scan of your passport can also be emailed to yourself, for extra security.
Passport Photos	Its always handy to have a few extra passport photos, in case you decide to pop into a neighbouring country and need an extra visa. Some forms for area-entry permissions require photos too, and they are easier to get before you leave home, at one of those high-street booths so loved by Amelie.
Scissors	So many uses - a pair of scissors is essential in any traveller's pack. Make sure they are sharp - you'll be surprised what you'll need to trim with them.
Sewing Kit	I'm not going to list every item in my sewing kit - it would take too long, so my advice is to have a variety of needles and cottons as needed to mend the other items in your pack. Pins too, and a few buttons. As I get older, I find one of those needle-threaders useful as well.
Spare Torch Bulb	OK, so most Maglites have a spare flashlight bulb hidden in the base, but I prefer to take an extra one too - they are very hard to obtain away from the cities.
Gas Lighter	See the entry on Candles, above. Useful even if you don't smoke. I found one that has a locking button that you need to press before the gas comes out - its handy to know it won't be leaking in your pack when something presses the normal button.
Paper-Clips	Paperclips make the ideal traveller's bookmark for your guidebook or novel. Bring two or three.
Sellotape	A small roll of scotch tape is useful to repair rips in your guidebook, or repair torn banknotes that even the beggars don't want. I take a few feet of 'ductape' too - its super adhesive has come in useful for pack repairs and other heavy-duty sticking.
Screw Eyes	These are those small 1" circles of steel with a wood-screw base. I don't use them very often, but sometimes there's just nowhere else to attach your mosquito net. If you must use them, look for existing holes rather than start a new one.
Trainers	Not much to add that everyone else doesn't know, except that I have just found a pair with Vibram soles, that should make walking in the hills that little bit easier. Copies of the expensive ones are available everywhere these days, but please bear in mind that in some poorer countries, various brands are still status symbols, and you can get mugged for the ones you are wearing.
Sandals	I'm a big fan of Birkenstock for comfort, though recently I have found that they just aren't lasting long enough. I've been going through a pair in 3 months, which is just not acceptable. Also, I have found that if you do much wading through water, the soles come detached - are they using water-soluble glue these days? I am now trying different brands, and will report back. Just to add: Your feet are important when travelling - look after them very well. If trekking, take a blister-kit too.
Short Trousers	Not really appropriate wear in many Asian countries, they are useful on the beach, though, and double up as swim-wear.
Long Trousers	I'm a big 'Rohan' fan, and wouldn't dream of going anywhere without a couple of pairs of the famous 'Rohan Bags'. They are carefully thought-out and designed over many years - the ideal traveller's trouser. When you turn the legs up for your own leg-length, keep the off-cut, which might be needed for patching later on.
Belt	Rohan makes a nice quick-release belt to go with their Bags - only 5 pounds.
Fleece Jumper	Fleece is much better than wool for your jumper or jersey - its lighter, easy to wash, and dries a lot quicker too. I like a couple of zip-pockets and a collar, too.
Short Sleeved Shirts	I prefer these to tee-shirts for normal, everyday wear. They are more comfortable, cooler, and look that little bit smarter too - useful when you are dealing with officialdom of all types. I find 2 is enough - replacements are easily available and cheap all over Asia.
Long Sleeved Shirt	Essential to have at least one of these - you'll need it when you go out in the evenings with all those mosquitoes about.
Tee Shirt	I take just one teeshirt with me - its great for the beach, or as an under-shirt in the mountains.
Boxer Shorts	The key here is to get some that are loose and light and cool when travelling in hot and humid conditions. Nothing tight-fitting. Rohan make some that are ideal for this purpose, or you can find others at many major shopping outlets. I take 3 pairs.
Socks	You need some socks that will not turn your feet into balls of sweat when wearing your trainers. Many people like Merino wool socks, but your local hiking shop may have other suggestions. Take 2 pairs.
Sandal Socks	What I mean by these are socks that are very thin and light. Why do you need them ? Well, if you are not used to wearing sandals at home, or have just bought a new pair of sandals, you'll find that they abrade your skin in ways you aren't used to, and blisters quickly form. It happens every trip with me, so a pair of light socks makes a useful padding layer whilst you are getting used to the sandals again. They are also handy to wear in the evenings, when there are mosquitoes about.
Cap	A baseball cap, if you like them. The sun can get very hot, especially at mid-day.
Scarf	Not a thick woollen scarf, but one of those light cotton 'Rami scarfs' found all over India. It has 101 uses: a head covering, a bandage, a towel, a bag for fruit, something to sit on, a sling, a tourniquet, etc., etc., and of course: as a scarf.
Umbrella	Useful in the monsoon season, as a sunshade, as a walking stick, and for brandishing at rabid dogs and children. Cheap to buy in India, and easily mended at 1000 roadside stalls, though not as durable as some western ones.
Sponge Bag	A waterproof bag will keep all your daily toiletries together. Handy if a bottle lid comes off, too.
Soap and Soapdish	Not much to say here, except how important it is to find a soapdish that is not brittle or breakable when your bag is dropped or sat on; also to look for one that will not leak the water around the soap into the rest of your bag.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste	Try to estimate your toothpaste requirements if, like me, you have sensitive teeth. Your favourite brand may not be available abroad. I use 1 tube every 3 months.
Shampoo	How to stop your shampoo leaking into the rest of your pack when the top comes off, or the bottle splitting when your bag is thrown on top of a bus? I tried a mini Sigg bottle, but found that after a few years the shampoo actually ate through the aluminium! I now stick to the original bottle, but am careful to make sure it has a screw-on lid, or one with a strong push-lock. Note: plastic sachets and scissors don't live happily together!
Nail Clippers	A bit of a luxury item really; after all, you could use your scissors to trim your nails, but it you can stand the extra weight, they do the job so much better.
Malaria Tablets	There are various different types - check before you go at your local health bureau to find out which ones suit the area you are going to. Some are available over the counter in Asia if you run out, but NOT ALL, so take a full supply with you. Do you 'really' need to take malaria pills ? Yes you do - malaria can be a killer disease, and may kill you.
Mosquito Repellent	Forget the essential oils and homeopathy just this once: to keep mosquitoes at bay, you need real chemicals. If you have a friend in Australia, get them to send you a bottle of 'Rid', which feels like hand-cream yet really works. Other people will have to use 'Jungle Formula' and anything else with 'Deet' in it - the problem is that it comes on an alcohol base, and when you have it on you'll stick to anything plastic that you touch.
Immodium	Natural ways are best, of course, and this stuff doesn't cure your diarrhoea, it just stops it happening for a while. However, if you are afflicted at the same time as a need to make a long bus or train journey, its very comforting to have a few of the tablets with you!
Nurofen	Or any other high-strength headache remedy. I don't use pills very often, but sometimes its nice to have a treatment for that killer-headache caused by sitting in a bus playing loud film music for 6 hours. Handy if you sprain something, too.
Aloe Vera Gel	Now here is a real wonder cure-all, that I never travel without. Available from health stores in the West, a tube of 99% pure Aloe Vera Gel is the best after-sun treatment of all time, and will alleviate unexpected sunburn overnight. Its also good for any minor skin cuts, burns, and abrasions.
Sun Cream	Its amazing how strong the tropical sun can be on the beach or in the mountains. Even if you tan easily, you'll still need some for those early days of your trip.
Antiseptic Cream	Always nice to have a small tube of this, for emergencies. I like 'Savlon' - you may prefer something else.
Plasters	Take plenty of plasters or BandAids; the ones you get throughout Asia never seem to stick to sweaty skin properly, and fabric-backed ones can't always be found either. When breaking in new sandals, I always seem to go through quite a few, then when wearing sandals its easy to stub a toe or catch a foot on something sharp. Cuts should be protected from dirt and dust, but remove plasters overnight, to let the air start its healing process.
Puritabs	You may prefer to buy bottled water most of the time, but its a good idea to have a few Puritabs for emergencies. These chlorine-based tablets will each treat 1 litre of water - better to be safe than sorry, even if it does taste like you are drinking from a warm swimming pool. In the mountains you'll need iodine-based tablets that can kill Giardia, but don't take them for too long, or they will upset your thyroid gland.
Gel Handwash	A very useful product, this, that can clean and sterilise your hands where soap and water isn't available. I keep a small bottle in my daypack, for unexpected snack-eating.
Toilet Paper	You can buy this throughout Asia, often in Stationery Shops, but it may not be as soft as the brand you use at home. My recommendation is to bring plenty: the space it occupies in your backpack will gradually get replaced by souvenirs.
Waterbottle	The only waterbottles worth bothering with are those made by the Swiss company 'Sigg'. These excellent spun-aluminium bottles are light but durable, and can be used as hot-waterbottles at night when trekking! Various sizes, colours, and tops available. Also insulated pouches.
Padlocks and Chain	You will need 2 padlocks - one for your bag, and one for your hotel door. I prefer a western-purchased combination lock, without a key to lose or mislay. DON'T buy the Indian 'number locks, which are easy to open. If you need glasses to read the numbers on a combination lock then I would suggest a standard lock with key is for you! It is all too easy to mislay your glasses, or not wish to carry them with you, and then not be able to get into your room! You will also need 1 metre of chain, to secure your bag under the seat when travelling on Indian Railways. If you forget to bring a chain with you, they can be found for sale outside most stations.
Spoon	OK, so you are very good at eating with your fingers already... But how about yogurt, or deserts, or hot curry sauce? Better to keep a small spoon in your daypack - those street food-vendors may not be able to provide you with one.
Torch	A good torch is essential when wandering through Asia. Frequent power cuts, caves to explore, unlit streets, and a personal sense of security demand you keep it in your daypack at all times. Which torch ? 'Maglite' of course. End of story.
Penknife	I like to have a small penknife with me, for sharpening pencils, cutting food, peeling oranges, etc. etc. My favourites are the famous red 'Swiss Army' brand, which don't need sharpening so often. Make sure they are in your checked-luggage when you fly, though, or airport-security will confiscate them.
Calculator	A small calculator is handy when exchanging money, pricing souvenirs, or other daily arithmetical jobs. Found anywhere, usually quite cheap.
Sunglasses	A must-have in the bright tropical sun. A spare pair is a good idea, too. DO NOT buy cheap sunglasses or RayBan copies, no matter how good the price - cheap sunglasses without proper UV filters will actually damage your eyes, by expanding the iris to let more UV radiation in. You would be better off not wearing any at all!
Reading Glasses	If you need them, you need them. Glasses are often available cheaply throughout Asia, so take your prescription with you, or send it in an email to yourself before you set off.
Pens and Pencils	Take a few. Cheap to buy when you get there, too.
Highlighter	You know, one of those pens that draws a thick transparent line in fluorescent yellow. Excellent for marking your route on a map, or annotating your guidebook.
Eraser	For adjusting pencil-entries in your notebook.
Daily Toilet Paper	You should always carry 20-30 sheets of toilet paper in a plastic bag, in a convenient back pocket. Who knows when you may get caught short during the day: paper is not generally available in toilets throughout India.
Lip Balm	Excellent when trekking in the mountains, or crossing desert areas that would otherwise dry your lips to the consistency of sandpaper.
Wallet	Keep in a zipped pocket, and be discrete when extracting money in crowded places.
Money Belt	An essential travel item, that should be kept with you 24 hours a day, even in the shower. Use it to store passport, credit cards, traveller's cheques, air tickets, and a small amount of emergency cash. I prefer one that sits on my waist, in the small of the back. I have always thought that neck-pouches are too vulnerable. Access your money belt discretely. In South America, other means may be necessary to protect your valuables.
Watch	A digital watch, with an alarm that actually wakes you up is preferred. Don't bring anything too valuable, or you may be mugged for it. Watches are available these days with compasses, altimeters etc. too - useful when trekking. There are even watches with a mini GPS receiver built in, but the power consumption is too high at the moment to make these attractive to anyone but the serious gadget-enthusiast.
Camera and Case	I'm sure you have one already. If not, there are plenty of websites that discuss the pros and cons of different types. Digital is preferable to film these days, and much more versatile. Make sure the batteries last a suitable time, and are available worldwide. I'd recommend a camera with a look-through viewfinder rather than one that relies totally on the colour screen for framing the photo, as in bright sunlight it is often impossible to see properly. Bring spare batteries, a lens brush, and some extra memory cards.
Guidebook	One of the big 3 are best: Footprint, Lonely Planet, Rough Guide. I prefer Footprint, but that's because I'm not a gap-year backpacker any more.
Maps	Its always a good idea to have the right maps with you. When in India or other parts of South Asia, I find the Lonely Planet South Asia Atlas is the best, though the word is that they have abandoned it these days. In London, go to Stamfords, in Long Acre - they keep a full range of maps, including trekking maps.
Reading Books	English novels are generally available throughout Asia, and are exchanged with other travellers as the trip progresses, but you will want to bring a few favourites from home, just to start you off.
Sleeping Bag	Some people like to take a lightweight sleeping bag, or sleeping bag liner with them. There are no hard rules about when this is or isn't a good idea, but remember that 2-season down-filled bags are very small these days; you can buy one the size of a bag of sugar.
Radio	Definitely a luxury item, this, but its nice to be able to listen to the familiar news from home when you are some months into your trip. Sony sell some very compact short-wave receivers these days, available down the Tottenham Court Road when in London.

My Overlanding Packing List

A packing list for Overlanders is quite different from that needed by a backpacker. The main difference is that it is the truck that is carrying your bag every day, not you, so you can afford to have a heavier, more bulkier pack, with a few extra luxuries that the average backpacker would not normally carry. How you start your trip is an important point to consider, though: if you are flying to meet your truck you will still be limited by the amount your airline ticket allows, whilst if you are driving to meet the truck then weight is not such a consideration.

Bulk is more important than weight on an Overland truck. You should carefully check the trip notes supplied by the company you are travelling with to see what are their limits and recommendations regarding luggage, but generally you are allowed to bring a medium-sized backpack, a small daypack, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping mattress. Some trucks have personal lockers that you unpack your main backpack into at the start of the trip, whilst others have a communal bag-locker from which you must retrieve and then store your bag each day. Some trucks may have small personal lockers for each passenger - these are very handy for securely storing your daypack at night - whilst other trucks just have communal luggage nets above the seating where you can keep your daypack. Sleeping bags and mats may go in the back locker, the nets, or a specialised bag locker. Some trucks even have their own boot-lockers, for dirty hiking boots.

The type of clothes and sleep-gear you bring will depend on the area that you are visiting, and the time of year and climatic conditions that you expect to encounter. Some of the long Overland trips can travel through a large range of temperatures and altitudes, so the best course of action is to work on the principle of 'layers', which can be added to or removed as necessary.

Here is the list I am currently using for my travels on an Overland truck through Africa and Asia:

Rucksack	A backpack of 60 - 80 litres is ideal. It should be soft walled, without an external frame which can snag or puncture other people's bags. A zipped kitbag is also suitable, but a suitcase is DEFINITELY not recommended, as it will not fit in the individual lockers, and prove troublesome to load for the people on your trip assigned to that duty.
Daysack	A bag of 25-30 litres is ideal. Use it to store your camera, rain-wear, guidebook, reading book, iPod, waterbottle etc. You will find that it is sometimes needed to hold a few clothes and toiletries if spending a couple of days off the truck, or a long day on the beach, so don't choose one of the really small ones.
Sleeping Bags (2)	I take 2 sleeping bags and a sheet-liner. One of the bags is a 2-season bag, and the other a 4-season bag. When the weather is at its coldest I use both bags and the liner together. This has proved comfortable even at -10C, when I had to crack ice off the outside of the bag in the morning! As the weather warms up, I use just the thicker bag + liner, then, hotter still, just the thinner bag + liner, and finally, in tropical conditions, I sleep in just the liner itself, or even on top of it.
Sleeping Bag Liner	A liner is essential to keep your sleeping bag clean for long Overland journeys. A sleeping bag is impossible to wash on the road. You can get lightweight silk liners, but I find that these are very slippy and not so practical. Better to stick to a simple cotton bag that you can buy or make yourself from an old sheet. Sew a pillow case to the top, which can be stuffed with clothes at night.
Compression Stuffsacks	A simple idea - a stuffsack with straps on it to compress the contents. Ideal for sleeping bags. Saves a lot of space in your bag.
Thermarest & Repair Kit	Not many companies supply sleeping mats these days, and if they do, they are likely to be the thin closed-cell foam mats. Better to bring a self-inflating mattress such as a Thermarest, which are quite comfortable, durable, and come in a range of lengths and thicknesses. DON'T forget a repair kit.
Mosquito Net	Not everyone carries a mosquito net as tents these days have a net built in, but for budget hotels in tropical areas, or if you like to sleep out at night (as I did all through South America), they are quite essential. The best type are the wedge-shaped ones; high at the head-end, low at the feet, they only require a single-point fixing - sometimes its hard to find more in a hotel room. Don't forget to tuck in under the mattress all around once you have got into bed. You will also need a length of cord or string to attach your net - about 3 or 4 metres sounds a lot but is often needed for high fixing-points.
Groundsheet	Very handy if you want to sleep in the open. A groundsheet protects your mat from punctures, and keeps your sleeping bag cleaner and drier as well. A thick piece of polythene will do. It should be about 2 feet wider and longer than your sleeping bag is.
Stuff-Sack	I like a number of these, big and small. They are useful for keeping small items together in your backpack, and help to find important items in a hurry. I keep one for dirty washing, one for medical and toiletries, and one for miscellaneous small things. One for your walking boots is handy too. Buy them at a camping store; the small ones are bank cash-bags, with an added draw-string.
Walking Boots	Most Overland trips involve some hiking or trekking, even if it doesn't appear on the initial itinerary. A strong pair of boots that provide support for the ankles and will keep your feet dry are essential in mountains and rough terrain. Vibram soles are best.
Trainers	Not much to add that everyone else doesn't know, except that I have just found a pair with Vibram soles, that should make walking in the hills that little bit easier. Copies of the expensive ones are available everywhere these days, but please bear in mind that in some poorer countries, various brands are still status symbols, and you can get mugged for the ones you are wearing.
Sandals	I'm a big fan of Birkenstock for comfort, though recently I have found that they just aren't lasting long enough. I've been going through a pair in 3 months, which is just not acceptable. Also, I have found that if you do much wading through water, the soles come detached - are they using water-soluble glue these days? I am now trying different brands, and will report back. Just to add: Your feet are important when travelling - look after them very well. If trekking, take a blister-kit too.
Long trousers (2)	I'm a big 'Rohan' fan, and wouldn't dream of going anywhere without a couple of pairs of the famous 'Rohan Bags'. They are carefully thought-out and designed over many years - the ideal traveller's trouser. When you turn the legs up for your own leg-length, keep the offcut, which might be needed for patching later on.
Belt	Rohan makes a nice quick-release belt to go with their Bags - only 5 pounds.
Shorts	Not really appropriate city-wear in many Asian countries, they are useful on the beach or around the truck, though, and double up as swim-wear.
Long Johns	Another name for long underwear - these form part of my clothing layer-system, and save the need for a separate pair of thicker trousers.
Pants (3)	The key here is to get some that are loose and light and cool when travelling in hot and humid conditions. Nothing tight-fitting. Rohan make some that are ideal for this purpose, or you can find others at many major shopping outlets. I take 3 pairs.
Fleece (2)	Fleece is much better than wool for your jumper or jersey - its lighter, easy to wash, and dries a lot quicker too. I like a couple of zip-pockets and a collar, too. A full-opening front zip gives more versatility.
Long-Sleeve Shirt	Essential to have at least one of these - you'll need it when you go out in the evenings with all those mosquitos about.
Short-Sleeve Shirt (2)	I prefer these to tee-shirts for normal, everyday wear. They are more comfortable, cooler, and look that little bit smarter too - useful when you are dealing with officialdom of all types. I find 2 is enough - replacements are easily available and cheap all over Asia.
Tee-Shirt	I take just one teeshirt with me - its great for the beach, or as an under-shirt in the mountains.
Walking Boot Socks (2)	Its worth investing in some of the specialised walking-boot socks - they are designed for the job, thicker in the right places, and better at coping with perspiration.
Trainer Socks (2)	You need some socks that will not turn your feet into balls of sweat when wearing your trainers. Many people like Merino wool socks, but your local hiking shop may have other suggestions.
Sandal Socks	What I mean by these are socks that are very thin and light. Why do you need them ? Well, if you are not used to wearing sandals at home, or have just bought a new pair of sandals, you'll find that they abrade your skin in ways you aren't used to, and blisters quickly form. It happens every trip with me, so a pair of light socks makes a useful padding layer whilst you are getting used to the sandals again. They are also handy to wear in the evenings, when there are mosquitoes about.
Scarf	Not a thick woollen scarf, but one of those light cotton 'Rami scarfs' found all over India. It has 101 uses: a head covering, a bandage, a towel, a bag for fruit, something to sit on, a sling, a tourniquet, etc., etc., and of course: as a scarf.
Cap/Hat	A baseball cap, if you like them. The sun can get very hot, especially at mid-day. Those wide brimmed Australian hats are also good for a variety of weather conditions. A woollen hat is essential for cold nights in the mountains, and whilst sleeping in sub-zero conditions. You lose a lot of heat through your head.
Woollen Gloves	Perfect for those cold nights in the mountain.
Umbrella	Though not essential, it a useful addition in the monsoon season, as a sunshade, as a walking stick, and for brandishing at rabid dogs and children. Cheap to buy in Asia, and easily mended at 1000 roadside stalls, though not as durable as some western ones. A folding one fits in your daypack.
Rain Coat and Trousers	or a Poncho. Check the likely weather conditions before you go.
Wallet	Keep in a zipped pocket, and be discrete when extracting money in crowded places.
Money Belt	An essential travel item for storing passport, credit cards, traveller's cheques, air tickets, and a small amount of emergency cash. Most trucks have a safe so you won't nned to carry all your valuables with you all the time, though in some regions you must keep your passport with you for - this is the best way to carry it. I prefer one that sits on my waist, in the small of the back. I have always thought that neck-pouches are too vulnerable. Access your money belt discretely. In South America, other means may be necessary to protect your valuables.
Sponge Bag	A waterproof bag will keep all your daily toiletries together. Handy if a bottle lid comes off, too. Small pockets for scissors and nail-clippers will stop them puncturing containers of liquid.
Soap and Soapdish	Not much to say here, except how important it is to find a soapdish that is not brittle or breakable when your bag is dropped or sat on; also to look for one that will not leak the water around the soap into the rest of your bag.
Shampoo	How to stop your shampoo leaking into the rest of your pack when the top comes off, or the bottle splitting when your bag is thrown on top of a bus? I tried a mini Sigg bottle, but found that after a few years the shampoo actually ate through the aluminium! I now stick to the original bottle, but am careful to make sure it has a screw-on lid, or one with a strong push-lock. Note: plastic sachets and scissors don't live happily together!
Aloe Vera	Now here is a real wonder cure-all, that I never travel without. Available from health stores in the West, a tube of 99% pure Aloe Vera Gel is the best after-sun treatment of all time, and will alleviate unexpected sunburn overnight. Its also good for any minor skin cuts, burns, and abrasions.
Malaria Tablets	There are various different types - check before you go at your local health bureau to find out which ones suit the area you are going to. Some are available over the counter in Asia if you run out, but NOT ALL, so take a full supply with you. Do you 'really' need to take malaria pills ? Yes you do - malaria can be a killer disease, and may kill you.
Nurofen	Or any other high-strength headache remedy. I don't use pills very often, but sometimes its nice to have a treatment for that killer-headache caused by sitting in a bus playing loud film music for 6 hours. Handy if you sprain something, too.
Immodium	Natural ways are best, of course, and this stuff doesn't cure your diarrhoea, it just stops it happening for a while. However, if you are afflicted on a long driving day, its very comforting to have a few of the tablets with you! You won't need to ask for so many toilet stops with the 'bowel trowel' either.
Antiseptic Cream	Always nice to have a small tube of this, for emergencies. I like 'Savlon' - you may prefer something else.
Sun Cream	Its amazing how strong the tropical sun can be on the beach or in the mountains. Even if you tan easily, you'll still need some for those early days of your trip.
Mosquito Repellent	Forget the essential oils and homeopathy just this once: to keep mosquitoes at bay, you need real chemicals. If you have a friend in Australia, get them to send you a bottle of 'Rid', which feels like hand-cream yet really works. Other people will have to use 'Jungle Formula' and anything else with 'Deet' in it - the problem is that it comes on an alcohol base, and when you have it on you'll stick to anything plastic that you touch.
Lip Balm	Excellent when trekking in the mountains, or crossing desert areas that would otherwise dry your lips to the consistency of sandpaper.
Liquid Skin	A wonderful invention. It comes in a tiny bottle, and is painted on an open cut or wound. Useful for those areas that a plaster can not cover, such as splits in between the toes, or cracks on heels which afflict most sandal wearers eventually. I never travel without it.
Tooth Repair Kit	You might never need it, but then one day a filling will fall out or a crown will come off. You might be in the 'middle of nowhere', or you might prefer not to let a local dentist inside your mouth.
Oil of Cloves	The instant remedy for toothache. Easy to apply, and instant results. Take a tiny bottle, but make SURE the top is tight, or it wil stink ALL of your belongings.
Fly Spray	Useful as a knockdown spray to clear your tent of mosquitoes. Careful door-management will achieve the same, though.
Nail Clippers	A bit of a luxury item really; after all, you could use your scissors to trim your nails, but the extra weight won't be a problem on the truck.
Toilet Paper	You can buy this throughout Asia, often in Stationery Shops, but it may not be as soft as the brand you use at home. My recommendation is to bring plenty: the space it occupies in your backpack will gradually get replaced by souvenirs.
Daily Toilet Paper	You should always carry 20-30 sheets of toilet paper in a plastic bag, in a convenient back pocket. Who knows when you may get caught short during the day: paper is not generally available in toilets throughout most of the Developing World.
Waterbottle	The only waterbottles worth bothering with are those made by the Swiss company 'Sigg'. These excellent spun-aluminium bottles are light but durable, and can be used as hot-waterbottles at night when trekking! Various sizes, colours, and tops available. Also insulated pouches. The Nalgene bottles can be quite good, too, though not as durable. Avoid the 'Platypus Reservoir' - a plastic pouch designed for travellers: they seem like a good idea, but I have seen 2 burst on Overland trips, with consequent loss of cameras, diaries, etc.
Travel Pillow	One of those neck pillows, that help you get to sleep whilst in a sitting position. Useful for those long driving days, or when flying home. Don't sit on them - they won't last long if you do.
Eye Shades	Very useful in a hotel room without curtains, a thin tent, or for napping on the truck. Available free on most long-haul airlines; the ones in first class are generally nicer, so keep an eye out for discarded ones as you leave the plane, or ask a stewardess.
Ear Plugs	Pretty much essential in Asia, where the noise can go on late at night and start again early next morning. Also handy for train or bus travel, and anywhere you want a bit of peace and quiet. I prefer the yellow foam ones, sold in Chemists or Builders Suppliers. They roll up in your fingers, then expand in the ear to fit your own shape. Take quite a few pairs - they are very light, can be washed, but get a bit ingrained after a while. Happiness is a new pair of earplugs!
Toothbrush and Toothpaste	Try to estimate your toothpaste requirements if, like me, you have sensitive teeth. Your favourite brand may not be available abroad. I use 1 tube every 3 months.
Gel Handwash	A very useful product, this, that can clean and sterilise your hands where soap and water isn't available. I keep a small bottle in my daypack, for unexpected snack-eating.
Plasters	Take plenty of plasters or BandAids; the ones you get throughout Asia never seem to stick to sweaty skin properly, and fabric-backed ones can't always be found either. When breaking in new sandals, I always seem to go through quite a few, then when wearing sandals its easy to stub a toe or catch a foot on something sharp. Cuts should be protected from dirt and dust, but remove plasters overnight, to let the air start its healing process.
Padlocks (2)	Useful for locking your bag, locking a hotel room, or locking your personal locker on the truck. Combination locks are useful as there's no key to lose, but if you need spectacles to see the numbers a standard lock with key is better. Give a spare key to the driver, or keep in the truck's safe.
Spoon	OK, so you are very good at eating with your fingers already... But how about yogurt, or deserts, or hot curry sauce? Better to keep a small spoon in your daypack - those street food-vendors may not be able to provide you with one.
Playing Cards	No longer a freebie from the long-haul airlines, but a pack of playing cards is always a good addition to your pack, for solitaire in lonely hotel rooms, or more communal games. They make popular presents, too, as the local packs are often not plastic-coated, and soon deteriorate.
Puritabs	You may prefer to buy bottled water most of the time, or drink water from the truck, but its a good idea to have a few Puritabs for emergencies. These chlorine-based tablets will each treat 1 litre of water - better to be safe than sorry, even if it does taste like you are drinking from a warm swimming pool. In the mountains you'll need iodine-based tablets that can kill Giardia, but don't take them for too long, or they will upset your thyroid gland.
Scissors	So many uses - a pair of scissors is essential in any traveller's pack. Make sure they are sharp - you'll be surprised what you'll need to trim with them.
Sewing Kit	I'm not going to list every item in my sewing kit - it would take too long, so my advice is to have a variety of needles and cottons as needed to mend the other items in your pack. Pins too, and a few buttons. As I get older, I find one of those needle-threaders useful as well.
Gas Lighter	See the entry on Candles, below. Useful even if you don't smoke - its only a matter of time before someone wants to light a bonfire, or the truck runs out of matches. I found one that has a locking button that you need to press before the gas comes out - its handy to know it won't be leaking in your pack when something presses the normal button.
Paper-Clips	Paperclips make the ideal traveller's bookmark for your guidebook or novel. Bring two or three.
Sellotape	A small roll of scotch tape is useful to repair rips in your guidebook, or repair torn banknotes that even the beggars don't want. I take a few feet of 'ductape' too - its super adhesive has come in useful for pack repairs and other heavy-duty sticking.
Torch	A good torch is essential when Overlanding. Bush camping, caves to explore, unlit streets, and a personal sense of security demand you keep it in your daypack at all times. A 'Maglite' is the best general purpose torch. You can buy an elastic strap to hold it on your head. Many people prefer head-torches with attached straps, but I find them not as versatile. Also they mainly use AAA batteries - I would rather use AA for everything - less chargers to worry about.
Spare Bulbs	OK, so most Maglites have a spare flashlight bulb hidden in the base, but I prefer to take an extra one too - they are very hard to obtain away from the cities.
Binoculars	Bulky, and not used most of the time, but when you need them they are worth their weight in gold. I would especially recommend them to anyone Overlanding through East and Southern Africa - they will triple your enjoyment in the Game Parks.
Candles (4)	Power cuts are frequent in many Asian countries, often when you are not expecting them! Some hotels will provide candles, but its better to have a small supply of your own, and some means of lighting them. How many to take with you ? - who can forget that '2 Ronnies' TV sketch, selling 'fork handles'.
Passport	Make sure it will be valid for at least 6 months after you return - some countries won't let you in otherwise. You should allow 2 pages for every country you will visit - visas these days take a full page, and then there are all those Entry and Exit stamps.
Passport Copy	Useful if your passport is stolen; essential in South America to show to Police and other officials, who would prefer to confiscate your real passport and sell it back to you. A scan of your passport can also be emailed to yourself, for extra security.
Vaccination Cert.	In a private area of your backpack, well away from normal traffic, you can keep those important documents needed in an emergency. When you get injections, make sure they are entered on a recognised 'International Vaccination Certificate', available from some travel-health clinics or national medical bureaus for a small charge. Proof of injections is essential at some borders; if you don't have them, they will give you the injections again, at a high cost, and often with second-use needles. Some people take a needle-kit from home, but in Asia its generally easy to buy them over the counter.
Passport Photos	Its always handy to have a few extra passport photos, in case you decide to pop into a neighbouring country and need an extra visa. Some forms for area-entry permissions require photos too, and they are easier to get before you leave home, at one of those high-street booths so loved by Amelie.
Trip paperwork	to prove you have paid the bill before you set off, and to show which sections you are entitled to. Also useful for the contact numbers in case something goes wrong - there have been occasions where the driver is injured, or just disappears!
Insurance Form	Absolutely essential. If something goes wrong, you need to know who to contact, and be able to provide the details they will require to help you.
Cash	How much to bring is always a difficult decision. Let your Overlanding company advise you. They may hint that you bring all cash in some areas, and they are right - it makes life soooooo much easier, but there is the obvious security issues that only you can fully decide on, and choose the amount of risk to take. Most trucks do have a safe, though other passengers can access it. If the truck is held up by bandits, don't expect the driver to act as a hero - if he's any sense, he will give them the keys.
Credit Card	Useful for day-to-day spending in certain areas only! Your Overland company should advise where. Useful for emergencies, though, such as air-fares or medical treatment. Even if you are insured, you might still have to pay up front, then claim the money back later.
ATM Bankcard(s)	These are used by Overlanders more and more these days, and have superseded Travellers Cheques in many areas. However, you should not just assume that they will be universally accepted. In many areas of Africa, only certain types are any use. Quite a few passengers were caught out this way, and had to mail home for cash to be sent to them - an expensive process. At the end of the day, cash is the most versatile, but also the most risky.
TCs & Receipt	You get this when you buy your Travellers Cheques. Make sure you keep it separate from the TC's themselves, as you'll need it to get a reimbursement if they are stolen. If you have a web-based email account, another idea is to send yourself an email with the TC details on, that you can access from any Internet Cafe. Keep a note of contact telephone numbers and addresses for the countries you are going to as well.
Penknife	I like to have a small penknife with me, for sharpening pencils, cutting food, peeling oranges, etc. etc. My favourites are the famous red 'Swiss Army' brand, which don't need sharpening so often. Make sure they are in your checked-luggage when you fly, though, or airport-security will confiscate them.
Watch	A digital watch, with an alarm that actually wakes you up is preferred. Don't bring anything too valuable, or you may be mugged for it. Watches are available these days with compasses, altimeters etc. too - useful when trekking. There are even watches with a mini GPS receiver built in, but the power consumption is too high at the moment to make these attractive to anyone but the serious gadget-enthusiast.
Alarm Clock	Absolutely vital for those early morning starts. I don't use the alarm on my watch as its not loud enough to wake me (Timex are better for this than Casio) and anyway I like to wear the watch all the time, so it is usually buried in my sleeping bag. I'd recommend a digital alarm clock rather than an analog one with hands - the reason is that in your bag, the knob for adjusting the hands will touch the side and stop the clock.
Towel	Not too big, not too small, not too thick or heavy. Something that will dry you all over, but won't fill your bag. I prefer one about 3x2 feet. You can get super lightweight technical towels, that pack away in no space at all, but I have never found them very pleasant to use. A standard towel is also nice to sit on during long truck journeys and un-padded seats.
Washing Line	You'll often be drying clothes overnight, when you already have your mosquito-net up, so you'll need a second 4 metre length of cord for this purpose. I've sometimes needed it for the mosquito net too, where the only fixing points were at diagonal ends of the bed: a cord fastened to a cord. Get a longer one than you think you'll need; its surprising how bits get cut off along the way, to act as replacement camera straps, drawstrings, pack repairs, etc. Some trucks have their own line, but it is often in use.
Washing Powder	A small plastic 'Tupperware' box makes a handy and secure container for this vital commodity. You will be doing your own laundry in various buckets and hand basins, so you'll have to have your own supply. The local powder, in plastic bags, can often burst, and will make a horrible mess in your pack.
Rubber Circles (3)	Fact of life: cheap hotel washbasins and campsites never have plugs. It is possible to go into a camping shop and buy a so-called 'Universal Basin Plug'; they do fit most basins by simply being big enough to cover most plug holes, but their disadvantage is that its easy to dislodge them when doing your laundry - the day it happens will be when you are using your last pinch of detergent. I prefer to find an old bicycle inner-tube, and cut out 3 rubber circles of varying sizes. They go inside the plug hole, and are held against the grill by water pressure.
Bag Labels	You should have a number of these for each of your bags, hidden both inside and out. Don't rely on a single outside tag - these can get torn off.
Calculator	A small calculator is handy when exchanging money, pricing souvenirs, or other daily arithmetical jobs. Found anywhere, usually quite cheap.
Notebook	For all your trip details, photo notes, contact details, daily diary, and 100 other uses.
Guidebooks	One of the big 3 are best: Footprint, Lonely Planet, Rough Guide. I prefer Footprint, but that's because I'm not a gap-year backpacker any more.
Maps	Its always a good idea to have the right maps with you. Sometimes the ones on your guidebook are not comprehensive enough, or don't show the bigger picture. There's a huge choice these days in any specialist travel shop - in London, go to Stamfords on Long Acre - they keep a full range of maps, including trekking maps.
Reading Books	Most Overland trucks have a library, though you can never guarantee that the books will suit your reading tastes. On a long Overland journey you can expect to do a lot of reading, so its worth having something that will last. War and Peace, maybe, or A Suitable Boy? Your fellow passengers will have books to exchange as the trip progresses, and English novels are generally available in shops throughout the world, especially in the major cities.
Pens and Pencils	Take a few. Cheap to buy when you get there, too.
Highlighter	You know, one of those pens that draws a thick transparent line in fluorescent yellow. Excellent for marking your route on a map, or annotating your guidebook.
Eraser	For adjusting pencil-entries in your notebook. No one else on the truck will have one.
Reading Glasses	If you need them, you need them. Glasses are often available cheaply throughout Asia, so take your prescription with you, or send it in an email to yourself before you set off.
Sunglasses and case	A must-have in the bright tropical sun. A spare pair is a good idea, too. DO NOT buy cheap sunglasses or RayBan copies, no matter how good the price - cheap sunglasses without proper UV filters will actually damage your eyes, by expanding the iris to let more UV radiation in. You would be better off not wearing any at all! Some areas of the world sell reputable cut-price originals, whilst others, such as Africa, charge the same as you pay at home!! Better to buy before you set off.
Radio & Earphones	Definitely a luxury item, this, but its nice to be able to listen to the familiar news from home when you are some months into your trip. Sony sell some very compact short-wave receivers these days, available down the Tottenham Court Road when in London.
Digital Camera	I'm sure you have one already. If not, there are plenty of websites that discuss the pros and cons of different types. Digital is preferrable to film these days, and much more versatile. Make sure the batteries last a suitable time, and are available worldwide. I'd recommend a camera with a look-through viewfinder rather than one that relies totally on the colour screen for framing the photo, as in bright sunlight it is often impossible to see properly. One other point: on my last 8 month Overland trip through Africa, I saw FOUR cameras totally useless for the same reason. They were the type of small camera that has an optical zoom controlled by a motor, with 3 sections that telescope in and out. They all got sand or dust in between the sections, which jammed the lens and stripped the tiny plastic gears. The passengers were all left without a camera.
AA Batteries	Don't litter the world with disposable Duracells, when recharging is such an easy option on an Overland truck these days. Yuo will need a set of batteries for each item you bring, plus spares, and a couple more waiting to be charged - you might be camped up for a few days, with no option to recharge at the moment you need to.
Battery Charger/lead	Don't forget a charger - there are so many types these days that there is no guarantee that someone else on the truck will have one that suits your type of batteries. Most trucks have a cigarette-lighter socket or two that can be used whilst the truck's engine is running to charge batteries, mobile phones, laptops, iPods and batteries. One that does NiCd and NiMh batteries is most versatile. The plug is a standard size, and the socket will give 12 volts DC. Don't expect an AC supply on the truck, though one is often available in towns and campsites. Be VERY careful leaving a phone or iPod behind the bar when charging - many get stolen.
Camera Pouch	LowePro and Tamrac makes excellent cases that will keep water and dust off your camera. Dull and scuffed is better than bright and gaudy, unless you want to tempt thieves.
Memory Cards	Better to have too many than too few - you will finds that you are taking far more photos than you initially expect. Don't forget to get them copied from time to time. Many camera stores provide this service these days, or someone on the truck may have a laptop. Make 2 copies of your photos - one to keep in your bag, and one to mail home. Photos and virginity are the two things you can't replace.
iPod	Very popular on the Overland trucks these days. You can get sizes of 160GB these days - that's a LOT of music. They can also be used to store photos, notes, contact lists, and even movies. Most trucks will have an amplifier that plugs in the earphone socket and relays the music around the truck whilst driving, or when you are parked up. Some trucks even have speakers in the outside cook lockers, too. Don't forget spare earphones, and a 12 volt charging lead.
USB Memory Stick	A tiny device, but very useful. Plug it into the Internet Cafe's computer and you have a ready place to store emails, passwords, documents, contacts, and photos. Be aware of viruses, though - not every Internet Cafe uses anti-virus protection.
Ziplock Bags	Grab a handful before you go - they are perfect for keeping things dry, free of dust and clean. Useful to put food into, too. Washable and re-usable.
Home Postcards	When travelling to a strange land where you can not speak the language, a few postcards from home are an excellent way to break the ice and start getting to know people. Some photos of your home and family are good, too.
Balloons	The kids love them - they make great gifts, though be careful that the recipients aren't bullied by their peers if you share things out unfairly.
Star-Map	Great when you are camping out away from light-pollution. Solves all those arguments about where the Southern Cross is. Very educational, and great fun.