Guide to Packing For Southeast Asia
When we decided to travel through Southeast Asia with only a backpack, we had no idea how to prepare, what to pack and what we would encounter. We packed four months of essentials into two backpacks. Jade’s backpack weighed 11.3 lbs and Devin’s weighed exactly 10 lbs.
There are two types of people when it comes to packing. Person A: leaves an open suitcase in the corner of their room and packs everything for months, ensuring that by time their trip comes, they haven’t forgotten anything. Person B: Creates a list of what they need to pack in their head but doesn’t actually collect the items until 48 hours before the trip. If they forget something, they’ll buy it along the way. Well, we are pleased to say we are a mixture of Person A and Person B.
We had an idea of what we would be bringing and added items along the way, but had no idea what the contents of our bags would actually look like. From the time we bought our flight, we constantly looked for clothing items on sale, but decided to pack everything in our bags 2 days before our flight left. This gave us enough time to go to a store if needed.
While packing, the one question that runs through your head regularly is, “am I packing too much, or not enough?” The issue of not wearing half of what you packed or longing for an item you left behind. A general guideline while traveling through Asia is to actually underpack. You can typically buy any clothing item you need for less than you could in another country.
Packing Tips:
Divide your packing list into two categories; “must haves” and “could be replaced.” First, we packed our “must haves;” the items we knew we couldn't function without; items like passports, medication, eye contacts, versatile shoes. Next, are items you definitely want on your trip but ultimately could be replaced; items like clothes, swimsuits, undergarments.
We only brought one pair of shoes. We both have Teva’s that we wear everyday. We did purchase a pair of flip flops because it’s customary to take off your shoes before coming into a restaurant, hotel, or any other building that may prefer you to go barefoot. We absolutely do not recommend bringing tennis shoes or shoes that are hot and have to be worn with socks!
Pack sunscreen and bug spray. It is much more expensive to purchase in Asia.
Use packing cubes. You’d be surprised how much you can fit into a little cube. They also help you stay organized.
Always pack your bags the same way and if you’re traveling with a partner, know who has which items.
Invest in a waterproof cover for your backpack. If it rains, you’ll be thrilled that your belongings aren’t soaked.
Pack a roll of toilet paper. It’s not common in Asia to provide toilet paper in restrooms. To be prepared, it’s best to make sure you have some emergency TP.
Don’t let the stress of packing get you down! Remember, you can always buy an item if you lose or forget it. There are only 3 things that are irreplaceable: your passport, medications/health related necessities, and your credit/debit cards. If you have those three things, you are set!