Carrying it all by yourself, you very quickly come to that one question:
What is really important?
Over the years I found an answer for myself. In the end everybody has to come up with his own version – that is why my travel companions backpack is always a few kilos heavier than mine 😉 Here is a list of items that I find so useful, that I will carry them willingly.

Backpack

• Arcteryx 70l
• Stuff sacks in different sizes, waterproofed
  If you go hiking and it rains for days in a row, you will be so happy! You can use normal plastic bags as well.
• Raincover
  As well a good dirt shield e.g. in bus luggage compartements

Daypack

• I use it for day trips to carry water, food, a small first-aid kit, some clothes and a travel book
• Raincover

First-aid kit

• Standard first aid kit (band aids, scissor, … )
  If you buy the content separatly you could pay less
• Antiseptic
  Especially for countries that have a different hygiene standard than you are used to
• Blister pads
  Pure gold if you get blisters during a hike
• Aspirin
  Good against headache and fever
• Electrolytes
  In case of diarrhea you have to prevent dehydration
• Immodium
  In case of diarrhea. Only if I don’t have another choice and have e.g. to catch a plan. I prefer to get it out of my system as soon as possible!
• Sun screen

For certain travel destinations:

• Mosquito repellent
  You have to be careful if you use “Deet”, but it does a good job!
• Mosquito net
  Bring your own, it is worth it. In many hostels the nets are in a very bad shape. One hole is enough to give you a rough night and some fun for the days ahead.
• Fenistil
  It’s an antihistamine/anticholinergic used orally and locally as an antipruritic.
• Malarone
  It is a malaria prescription medicine. You should seek medical advice before using it,
• Micropur
  For water disinfection & conservation

This is not a medical advice! Go talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you leave. For certain countries it is better to seek the advice of experts. We ourselves go to the Department of Infectious Diseases & Tropical Medicine at the University of Munich.

Electronics

• Headlamp
  You have both of your hand free. Buy one with a lighting mode selection. If you walk at night a switch to red light is a good choice.
• Camera
  The model I use is a Canon PowerShot SX220 HS. It’s important for me to quickly take pictures with a good quality. The camera is small, so it disappears quickly in my hand and into the pocket. If you are heading to take pictures of the big five, you should go for a better optic.
• Waterproofed plastic box for the camera
  Does the trick but is not as expensive as a original accessorie.
• Gorilla tripod
  It is fantastic to take pictures e.g. of sunsets, where you need long shutter speed
• Memory cards
  Internet is very slow in most parts of the world. So always have at least a second one with you.
• Charger
  Try to find one for all your electronic devices. We use a Skross Pro Plus USB World Adapter Dual USB and a Goal Zero 41022 Guide 10 Plus Solar Recharging Kit.
• Mobile
  Normally I don’t use it, but it could be useful in a emergency situation. Before leaving check with you provider if you can use it in the country you are going to.
• Tablet
  Maybe a good choice considering that internet cafés are in danger of extinction. On the other hand it’s something that everybody wants to have … so be careful.

Clothing

• Hat
• Buff
• Light rain jacket
• Soft shell
  I prefer jackets with underarm vents
• Performance shirt long sleeve & short sleeve
  If I plan something like going up a mountain
• Performance shirt button down
  I like them for areas with e.g. mosquitos. Choose a light color.
• Fleece pullover
  A good second layer on cold days
• Convertible pant
  Yeah, it’s not cool but very practical.
• Keen sandal
  Great quality sole and very good toe protection. My personal choice is “Newport”.
• Flip-flops
  Not only for the beach … as well for public showers
• Light hiking boots, waterproofed
  I prefer boots with a high shank, that give your ankle a better footing

Accessories

• Hand towel
  Fast drying with a mesh sack
• Earplugs
  One of the most important items – so that you find sleep whenever you need it.
• Money belt or holster.
  Never put all your money in just one place!
• Sunglasses
  Be sure that you have quality lenses, your eyes will thank you for it.
• Multy tool
  My choice is a “Leatherman Skeletool”
• Spork
  It’s a combination of fork, spoon and knife and it’s ultra light
• Berghaferl
  It’s a combination of cup and bowl so you can use it for beverages, cereals or soup
• Games
  I like to take my beanbags for juggling, a frisbee and story cubes

Books

• Lonely Planet
  Make sure that you have always the latest edition available. Things can change very fast, especially in developing countries.
• A book that has something to do with my travel destination or one of the many books I didn’t find the time to read or a book at home
  Books we’ve read and can recommend here

Tip
Before you leave pack you backpack and carry it around for at least an hour. If you want to go hiking, get outdoors for a weekend. You will quickly discover if you feel comfortable.

Thank you 4 sharing!