These are the items I consider to be the bare minimum for indefinite travel. You can get by with less if you’re roughing outside civilization, and bringing more would increase your comfort but at the expense of flexibility and weight. Bring these items and you’ll be able to travel for extended periods and live well. Some items come via Tim Ferriss, author of “4-Hour Workweek”, a great book for creating an adventuring lifestyle.
NOTE: I’ve assumed a warm climate/summer months since we’re talking bare minimums (carrying any less would probably get you written up for indecency at some point). Of course if you’re traveling to a colder climate, bring appropriate outer gear.
CLOTHING
Pair of multi-purpose jeans (x1)
They’re durable, comfortable and acceptable in almost any social situation. I prefer jeans darker blue in colour and with a “pre-worn” look – they tend not to look dirty even when they are. They’re the heaviest and bulkiest piece of clothing you’ll bring but because you’ll be wearing them most of the time, it saves space in your bag.
Socks, black and white (x3, some combination)
The black socks are for a pair of shoes that don’t work with white. Stay away from dress socks, they’re too thin and will be uncomfortable on long days. Instead use black sport socks, they look the same and have more cushioning. Three pairs is the magic number, giving you at least a 3-day interval between washings and a spare if you’re just going away for a weekend.
Semi-formal shirt (x1)
A collared shirt helps enormously in getting through customs with minimal hassle.
Shorts (x1)
When the weather gets hot a good pair of shorts is key. Find a pair that can also double as swimming trunks, there’s nothing like a spontaneous dip in the ocean or a pool.
T-shirts (x3)
Like socks you can’t often wear them more than a day but they’re light, comfortable and socially flexible. In a pinch you can wear one for a couple days (see deodorant below) but stay away from white if possible.
Deodorant stick (x1)
In a pinch, it’s a shower in stick form.
Tide stick (x1)
With only one pair of jeans, you’ll need to take care of occasional stains. Most can be handled with a Tide stick (or similar cleaning pen). These only work when the stain is fresh so be sure to keep it close.
MISCELLANEOUS
Backup photocopies of all important documents
Passports, debit cards, visas, health insurance should all be photocopied. When you go wandering, keep the originals with you and if anything happens, the copies will speed things up at consulates.
Money
- $100 in small bills of local currency (this is at arrival for taxis, food, or should you arrive late when banks are closed).
- Credit and/or debit cards (traveler’s cheques aren’t always accepted). I carry two, a Mastercard and Visa. They’re accepted at 95% of the places you’ll go.
Cable bike lock
This is for securing luggage when in transit or in non-private accommodations like a hostel. It’s mainly a deterrent so it can be light and small.
OPTIONAL
Electronic dictionaries
No book versions, they’re too bulky. Many mobile apps do a great job if you have a smartphone, otherwise a dedicated device is just as good except it’s one more thing to carry.
Travel guide
As with dictionaries, there are many mobile apps available but if you run out of batteries you’re sunk. I like to carry the guide in book form because they’re more reliable. Ear-marking pages and scribbling notes is a big plus too.
Computer
If you don’t need a computer, don’t bring one. If you need to check email or look something up, internet cafes, libraries and Apple stores are never too far. Having the capacity to work will tempt you to do it and change the vibe of your trip. Nothing important will happen when you’re gone. If you tell someone you couldn’t respond to their email because you were [insert awesome activity here], they’ll be more interested in that than the email you didn’t reply to.
If you absolutely must stay connected, arrange for a data plan on your phone so that you save space. It also limits your work capacity to what phone can do making sure you don’t go overboard. And if you need a computer (ie. as a photographer), be aware that it can reduce your engagement on your trip and use it sparingly.
The end goal in traveling light is to be engaged in the places, people and things you’re experiencing. Carrying too much or staying connected can bog you down physically and mentally. Travel light, stay light and open in mind and great adventures will unfold in on your path.
