Dear Fellow Travellers...
Something tells me I'll catch some flack for this, but after
making 15 trips to Asia in as many years,this is my packing
checklist.
Yes, it's a lot of stuff. Yes, I travel "heavy". Yes, I'm
TOTALLY self sufficient, and prepared for ANY kind of travel
situation!
I never bring all of these things, but I always bring most
of them, especially the lighter items. I figure: if it's
small and doesn't weigh much, what the heck --- I might as
well bring it since I'm taking all that other junk anyway.
WASH UP & MEDICAL KIT
Shaving cream, razor, extra blades
Deoderant, hand soap, washcloth, headband
Shampoo, comb
Toothbrush, toothpaste, toothpicks, floss
Vitamins, aspirin, cold pills
Sudafed, Nasal Spray, SwimmerÆs ear drops
Eyedrops, eyemask, Melatonin
Nail clipper, tweezers, Q-tips
Condoms, etc.
Imodium
Bandages, Neosporin
Sunscreen, lip balm
Mosquito repellent, insect sting reliever
Small padlock, tie-wraps
Drain stopper (for sinks and bathtubs without one!)
MISC.
Daypack
Umbrella
Compass (OK, youÆre walking in Bangkok and the sign says
Ratchadamri Road. But which direction are you going?)
Nylon cord, adhesive/sealing tape (Always gets used up)
Ziplock bags, big plastic bags
Knife, fork, spoon, chopsticks (option)
Swiss army knife, mini scissors
Flashlight w/extra batteries, bulbs
2 or 3 lighters, Candles
Laundry soap, vegetable scrubber (for scrubbing clothes &
cleaning shoes!)
Toilet paper
Bath towel, loufa (it weighs nothing and will scrape away
that ground in backpacker dirt!)
Mosquito net (option)
Inflatable pillow (option)
Sleeping sheet (option) (a bedsheet sewn up like a sleeping
bag; good for warm climates and good when your guesthouse
bed is grungy!)
Immersion heater, camping pot (option)
instant food, snack foods (option)
Particle mask (for walking in Bangkok!)
READING/WRITING/REFERENCE (PERMANENT)
Zipper envelope w/pens, pencils, envelopes, paper
Mini world atlas
Address book
Visa photos
Extra business/personal cards
BOOKS
Reading books
Guidebooks
Local maps
Songbook
GIFTS / SHOW & TELL
Little presents
Photos of self, home, family, etc.
U.S. postcards
Old stamps (a cheap bagful from a collector's shop ---
light, cheap educational gift for kids!)
VALUABLES & CARRY-ON
Passport
TravelerÆs checks (w/seperate list of numbers)
Personal checks, visa photos
Money belt (to wear INSIDE your clothing)
Cash & local currency
Plane tickets
Sunglasses (worn at ônightö to help beat jet lag on the
plane), glasses case
Ear plugs, eye mask, Melatonin (in carry on bag)
CLOTHES
Nylon pants (great for travelling!), other pants, jeans
(option) (not great for travelling)
4-7 prs underwear
4-7 prs socks
1-2 pr shorts
1 swimsuit
4-7 T-shirts
2 good shirts
pr walking shoes w/extra laces (They WILL break just when
you donÆt want them to!)
pr good shoes (option)
Sports sandals (Better than cheap Asian ôflip flopsö, which
are named that because they have no traction --- Wear them
to the outside toilet at night and when you step into the
first puddle, youÆll flip flop right onto your ass!)
OTHER MEDICAL ITEMS (all optional)
Flagyl (in case of dysentary)
Antibiotics, Dettol, etc. (for first aid; this stuff will
kep infections from getting worse in Asia)
Moleskin (for trekking; in case of blisters)
Thermometer
Acetazolamide (for altitude illness if trekking on high
mountains)
PHOTO, ETC. (all optional)
Camcorder & acces. incl. remote
Camera
Camera kit w/25mm lens, flash, paper, batteries
Extra lenses, U/V, Sun, other filters
Tripod, beanbag
Film & extra film!
Mini binoculars
ELECTRONICS (all optional)
Shortwave radio, antenna, directory
Calculator, Telephone extension cord (more for business
travel --- sometimes itÆs great to have a nice long phone
cord in the hotel room)
AC adaptors, extension cord, etc.
Mosquito zapper & tablets (Like an ôelectricö mosquito coil;
buy it in any Asian dept. store, it really works)
HIKING/TREKKING GEAR (all optional)
Hiking boots w/oil & extra laces (for serious trekking
only!)
parka
2-4 prs heavy wool socks
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Are you American? The reason I ask is that Americans seem to
be gadget and gear obsessed.
You carry way too much. Is all that shit you lug around
necessary?
Thanks for sharing the list. Ever seen the Universal Packing
List and related webpages? Query: hypothetically, you are
forced to limit yourself to 10kg and carry-on bag size. What
would you take?
I wouldn't want to carry half that stuff but I'd sure like
to travel with someone who did! :)
Thanks Beast of Burden for making me laugh at 7.15 pm when
I'm still at work !!
Hey man, you forgot about the fridge for ready made ice.
Have you ever missed a flight because it took so long to go
thru that check list of yours? Good luck to you, 15 trips
would probably kill most.
Haven,t you forgotten your emergency distress flares and
satellite location becon
Just how many bags do you take? I can't really disagree
with any of it, but it's just so MUCH!! I suppose if
you're going to Hong Kong you'll want the "good shirts" but
if you're going to be in the bush why bother? Likewise the
"good shoes" -- Mephistos can double as dress shoes, but
why take them if you're not going to dress up?
.
The only thing missing is a deck of playing cards.
Do you really need an ALTIMETER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
or is that for the C130 thats going to carry all
this stuff !
You're obviously not a backpacker.
How many suitcases does this all take??!?!?!? Twelve?!?!??!
Hi. Once again, thanks for sharing the list. Like the
Universal Packing List and others of its ilk, it is
understood that it is easier to delete things from an
omnibus list than it is to remember to add things to a
skeleton list.
.
In that spirit, I remain genuinely curious about what you
now consider after 15 trips the really important stuff --
vital to you and/or possibly hard to replace in Asia. First
aid supplies, nylon pants, sports sandals, little presents
for kids, and . . . ?
.
This is not entirely academic. For example, any traveller
to Tokyo would be well advised to bring their own Contac (or
similar cold remedy) as the local price can be *many* times
what you are probably used to paying.
Wow. I've been through 6 countries in the last 5 years and
would dreamin' of aboard the Titanic. You have made my dream
come truth. Thanks for your joke. See you aboard. Say hi to
Jame Cameron for me.
Just want to say this is the funest Post I've seen. Thanks
for making me laught. I didn't finish the list so I don't
know if pocket tissue was listed. If not, it's a must. I
couldn't leave home without it when I was in China. (I'm not
joking.)
I had no idea that my packing list would generate such
a...uh...um... so much response.
Well folks it really wasn't meant as a joke, though I may
have kindled a fire with my own somewhat sarcastic comments
at the top.
The packing list is for real, the product of (altogether)
about two years of travelling (yes, with a backpack) through
Asia.
90% of that stuff is very small! Tweezers, a small pair of
scissors, a chunk of clothesline, spare shoelaces, business
cards...that stuff doesn't take up much space, or weigh
much.
Most of it lives in a couple of plastic bags, which I keep
in my closet between trips. It's no big deal.
I've found that the heavier things are: clothing, books, and
the shortwave radio. (But I'd never travel without the
radio. It's about the size of a hardback book. I love
listening to the local AM, and the regional shortwave
stations. At night there are a hundred kinds of Asian music
to hear. The English news from All India Radio, Radio
Nepal, or Radio China can be pretty interesting too.)
Justin, for trekking in the mountains, an altimeter helps
you find landmarks and trails if you have a contour map. I
picked up a cheap watch that has an altimeter built in.
Nice to have sometimes.
Yvette, I am definitely a backpacker! It's a Jansport, one
size down from their biggest one.
Beast of Burden, you said you were curious about the really
important stuff. So OK, besides the aforementioned radio, I
would say the medical items (which are about 50% gone after
a "typical" 2 months trip: 1/3 for me, 1/3 for other
travellers who needed something, 1/3 for local people ---
cleaning up an infection etc.), good flashlight, extra visa
photos, personal checks (they don't weigh very much; once my
passport was stolen and my embassy cashed a personal check,
as will American Express)...maps, songbook (Asian people
love to sing and love to hear you sing), mini atlas (pack of
cards size). LITTLE PRESENTS...a small gift from your home
country is very meaningful to a local person. Photos from
home; magic icebreaker, no words needed, the locals love to
look at them.
Lastly, regarding clothes: On the last night before
leaving, I always have to do some soul searching here
because this is the bulkiest, heaviest part. But I do like
to carry nice clothes, even when going way off into the
boonies. If I am invited to a wedding or party, I know that
even in a small town with dirt paths, the villagers will be
probably dress up a bit and I want to dress nicely too, as I
would for a wedding or a party in my home country. (You're
right Happy Crapper, I'm American.)
Actually the clothing question brings up a side issue. Here
is MY chance to let off a little steam...
Some of you backpackers out there are real slobs! I am
continually amazed by the number of farang backpackers who
are beyond grungy, or dressed in a way that is offensive to
local people.
In Asia, even in very small and poor villages, most of the
locals are well groomed, well dressed, and well shod. By
comparison, some backpackers just sort of let all hang
out..."whatever"...
A Thai will not say to your face that you are dressed
inappropriately or offensively (unless you are entering a
temple), but inwardly they will disrespect you (and/or think
you have a bad attitude). Dirty clothes, dirty face and
hands, bare feet outside, tank tops, shorts, going
braless...those things are NOT OKAY in Asia.
So yes, I bring nice shirts and pants and shoes. I wouldn't
wear them on a songthaew bumping around Laos, but I would
wear them while visiting a temple in Luang Prabang, or to a
local home when a family invites me over for dinner. (More
likely to happen when the locals can SEE that you respect
them and their customs.)
OK now that I got that off my chest, thanks one and all for
your comments.
Beast of Burden had it right. I posted this list so that
others could peruse it, and fine-tune their own travel
style.
So folks, see you on the road! I'll be the American farang
at that wedding reception with all the music and laughter
across town --- cleaning the scrape on uncle's elbow, with
all the girls tugging on my arm to dance with them. Happy
trails!
i may just be the only one who agrees w/ your list -- but not all of it for each trip. just returned from 2 weeks in thailand. not backpacking -- had guides driving me each day so luggage stayed in each hotel. i took 2 bags, rolling 26" bag and an expandable carryon and a large "purse"/daybag. have traveled for 3 weeks through HK, china, s'pore, malaysia and took same luggage. i pack light w/ clothes (sometimes bring clothes i can leave behind) so i have room for souveniers, but my carryon contains every toilettrie/medication/alergy medicines that i would need without running out. i have helped many a tourist who did not bring right stuff. and the best advice (especially for asia) just bring small packets of tissues-- forget the toilet paper roll -- too bulky inless you take out the paper tube and compress the roll. i say, bring whatever you can carry yourself. as for clothing -- modest, lightweight, casual clothes for asia -- i saw women in sundresses w/ their bras hanging out all over and the dresses bearly covering what they were supposed to cover, halter tops with everything hanging out all over, totally inappropriate dressing for temples (you are made to cover up for temples -even the shoes you wear- or cannot get in). most travelers think anything goes -- well, it doesn't say much for you and shows lack of respect for other cultures. what you wear at home is not always appropriate in other countries -- do some research before you travel. (by the way -- i'm young -- not prudish or a sr. citizen)
Some good ideas in there, my biggest gripe is the amount of
clothes you're bringing. Taking few clothes doesn't have
to mean you're dirty, it just means you need to to a little
bit of laundry every couple of days.
My biggest weight thing is the decision to bring my Nikon
SLR (with one lens) or my tiny Olympus Stylus. I sure like
having the Nikon when it comes time to take the picture,
but I LOVE carrying the Stylus....
George
When I saw your list I was reminded of the good old days on
our expeditions to darkest Africa:
You at the front in a pith helmet followed by 20 heavily
laden Zulu's.
Hey David,
You forgot to include a Rupture Support belt in the medical
kit.You'll need it after hoisting your pack off the ground!.
"Oh yeah. White man come to village with with magic
medicine. Oooh, look, white man have talking box. Oh, oh!
Dance with me, you big man, you got much, much."
Yup. You are TOTALLY sufficient. You have all the wonders of
western civilization in your enormous backpack. The locals
will fall to their knees in amazement. You are the god of
plenty.
i say if you can carry it all, who cares what you bring.
WHAT ABOUT IF YOU GO ON A BOAT AND IT DROWND AND YOU GET
ALONE ON A SMALL ISLAND?????
DO YOU GET SUICIDE?
BUT NO STRING TO HANG YOU,
NO KNIFE TO CUT YOUR VEINS,
NO HILLS FROM WHERE TO JUMP DOWN
AND YOU DON'T WANT JUMP IN THE SEA????
HALLO ROBINSON CRUSOE
I use to take...
1. Passport
2. Ticket's
3. Medecines
4. Toothbrush
5. Money.
6. 2 t-shirt's and underwear.
And then I go.
Since we have been talking about SEA etiqutte above, I just
thought it my be a useful peice of advice to Wasa the
Swede,if I suggested that he should also take a pair of
trousers with him. would provide pockets for his nihilistic
packing list.
These are necessary, even if you are Swedish.
David:
Re: Your original post, 'Beast of Burden's response and your own response -
.
I can't say that your packing list is the same length as mine (ahem!)
.
But I do appreciate your good web manners and attitude. You both had messages that contribute, not just another bashing session - the latter, I'm afraid, becoming less and less infrequent.
.
May the road rise up...
Thank you for sharing your list with the world. It's just
really great that someone out there is prepared for
anything. This just goes to show that you have been in
situations we can all learn from. I remember being stuck in
Fiji and just wishing for antiseptamines. My allergies were
so bad! Try to find nasal spray on an island where people
don't speak your language that well. I learned my lesson.
When I was backpacking through Australia in every place I
stayed I left something of mine behind mainly because I
slowly learned to live without it. I say pack light but
don't forget anything like medicine or your favorite
sweatpants or hicking shoes.
Hye Dude: With all that you carry or want us to think you
carry, WHY NOT, just buy a house or hut there and keep
every thing there for when you return??
you all really need lives
And I'm a little envious. How nice to have everything you need on your back. I generally pack very light, because I don't like to check my bag, and like the feeling of being able to live, and live well, with the bare essentials. My acid test for weight is a game of catch with my fully loaded pack. If everyone survives, it'll do.
That's a good list, though. It's always better to start out with too much and end up abandoning/giving away excess, so long as you don't (gasp) litter it all over the place. A lot of hostels have boxes or shelves where people can swap gear.
Ditto about not minding travelling with someone who carried all that! David, are you planning any trips soon?
LARGE CARRY ON BAG
A CLOTHES
3 SHORTS...ONE OF WHICH CAN BE A BATHING SUIT
3 GOLF SHIRTS THAT WILL GO W/ SHORTS,DRESS, GOLF PANTS
1 DARK COLOR KNIT SHIRT THAT CAN BE WORN UNDERSHIRTS
1 LEVIS & BELT
1 DARK COLOR LONG UNDERWEAR
1 DARK COLOR WATERPROOF GOLF PANTS
6 SOCKS
1 DARK COLOR UNLINED WIND BREAKER WITH HOOD
4 FAST DRY BOXER SHORTS
1 TERRY CLOTH HAT
1 VISOR
1 BLACK HIGH TOP TENNIS SHOES
1 SIMPLE THONGS
1 PAIR OF WATER SOCKS
B ACCESSORIES
1 LARGE BEACH TOWEL...DARK PATTERN
1 HAMMOCK...LIGHTWEIGHT FISHNET
1 PAIR OF SMALL KNIT GLOVES
1 SOFT SIDED ICE CHEST
1 ELECTRIC COFFEE POT & PLASTIC INSULATED CUP
1 DARK TWIN BED SHEET
1 BAGS...LARGE TRASH BAG, HEAVY DUTY SANDWICH BAGS,
PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS
1 SNORKEL & MASK
1 TOILETRY BAG
1 READING LIGHT
1 SMALL RADIO
1 BOOKS & MAPS
1 FRISBEE
SMALL FANNY PACK
WALLET, DOCUMENTATION, IMPORTANT INFORMATION, EXTRA COPIES,
DON'T WANT TO LOSE STUFF
LARGE FANNY PACK
GLASSES, EXTRA BATTERIES, SMALL FLASHLIGHT, WRITING MATERIALS,
FILM, WASHCLOTH & SMALL SOAP, ASPRIN, KNIFE & EATING UTENSILS,
FINGERNAIL CLIPPERS, MOSQUITO REPELLANT, BASIQUENT, SUNSCREEN,
TOILET PAPER, RUBBER BANDS, SMALL TOOTH BRUSH & PASTE,
NECK TUBES
CAMERA, MONEY, PASSPORT & CURRENT COUNTRIES DOCUMENTATION
VISA, ETC.
Just a tip for those who do enjoy lookin' good when invited
to a local wedding, etc: Tilley clothes of Canada (called
'Give 'em hell' clothes) are great for wearing anywhere and
can be washed and dried overnight, making anyone look really
presentable for any occasion. They are tough, have lots of
pockets (including secret pockets)and are great for any kind
of travel. The famous story is of the guy who had an
elephant eat his Tilley hat...recovered it thru nature's way
in a day or so, washed it and wore it the rest of the trip.
And no, I don't work for Tilley. I just love their stuff.
I spent one week in Belize and was
prepared for 1 year - all with
1daypack and a big dufflebag. Better
to be prepared than bitch to complete
strangers about what ails you, I say!
Suggestion for the books you take -
leave 'em behind for other english
speaking travellers, or even locals
who speak or are learning english -
they are a welcome "gift" for those
who follow your (heavy laden)
footsteps.
By the way, Elizabeth, Tilley's are
pretty awesome, but be forewarned -
they are pricey!
Is anyone who was in San Ignacio for the BVAR (Backfiller's Club!) excavations in 1994 (I think) out there?
It's me, Mat, that lazy bugger who never wrote!
Get in contact those American & Canadian girls.
David,
It was incredible to me to read such vituperative reviews of
your suggested travel list. The list was only formulated on
your well thought-out opinions based on your travel needs
and experience. It was by no means a personal attack on any
of your reviewers, yet some of their responses seemed to
indicate a sense of personal affront. Anyhow, the list is
quite extensive, yet most of the items were small and
lightweight, easily compacted into a small backpack. I would
agree that some items were probably not necessary or even
useful, yet I question whether a small sleeping bag and/or
bivy sack would be more beneficial than say the camcorder?
How about a small raincoat? Instead of an altimeter?
Thanks to all for the lists. Why criticize? Like em or
lump em. For me, I can peruse the lists and make up my
own mind as to what I'll take or forego. At least the
various lists are starting points so I don't have to
exercise brain cells needlessly. No need to reinvent the
wheel. Thanks again.
yup, David, thanks for the comprehensive list. I weigh only
45kgs, hence I REALLY need to pack as little as possible.
Apart for some of the things on your list, one thing that I
think is TRUELY necessary is WET TISSUES!! Yes, it is
needed especially after food, an injury, loo stop in natural
surroundings, and where general cleaning is needed...etc
Let the man bring what he wants. It's his trip afterall.
Laary
shit mate you didnt have a chess board... or a global
positioning system.....or a laptop... or a doctor...
A V8-ute might also come in handy....
BY THE WAY.... you packed condoms etc....---does etc mean
handcuffs, whips, gaffer tape ....or what????
none of my business really!!
Please tell us the total weight of the whole stuff, last
trip I made it with 4.5 Kg, I┤ll cut off a leg then...
I hear they are making backpacks with wheels now.
Obviously the manufacturer read your list. The only problem is you now have to add tyre levers and puncture repair kit
I will say hi if i see you in Asia on my next trip i"ll know who you are!!!! Have fun
Very good list!!!
To all the negative posters: people, have you ever
really travelled off the beaten track. REALLY off the
beaten track? I somehow don't think so.
(and I don't mean the Thai beaches or Indian hippy
'resorts'!!!)
YOU MUST BE A REAL BOOOOOORE TO TRAVEL WITH ........LIGHTEN UP!
I've wrestled an Anaconda in Sth.America, lived with a group of Pygmies for a year and all I took was a Sleeping Bag!!!!! REALLY!!!!
David's list might be comprehensive, I seriously think there
are still several missing items: -
1)Mother - In case you are homesick
2)Father - In case your mother is homesick
3)HIV detector - After a couple of drinks, u'll never know.
4)Drinks detector - After being confirm you are HIV
posititive, you'll like to have more.
(The last two items are available in most major pharmacies)
Enjoy your trip!!!
Well, I┤ve never traveled with a backpack heavier than me,
I┤ll go for it anyway, will I need backbound surgery upon
return? Better pack a surgeon (not a big one) and the
problem it┤s solved out.., great idea.
I AM DRIVING FROM LONDON TO SINGAPORE NEXT YEAR. DOES ANYONE KNOW IF I WILL BE ALLOWED TO DRIVE MY OWN VEHICLE IN CHINA? I HAVE FOUND IT VERY DIFFICULT TO GET INFORMATION OUT OF THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT TOURIST BUREAUX. IN FACT, ANY INFO ON DRIVING IN SOUTH-EAST ASIA OR THE MIDDLE EAST WOULD BE REALLY HELPFUL. THANKS!
u missed these out: tv, satallite dish, microwave oven,
washing machine, hi-fi....
1) You must be American. No Brit, or anyone else for that
matter could be quite so random.
2) With 45 posts already here, looks like you might be
trying to start WWIII. Congrats on starting an internet
argument.
3) Have you ever just been spontaneous?
Sorry, forgot you're American.
I've just had a great idea.
Why don't we all publish our own packing lists and compare
them to David's. Perhaps an average backpacker should take
more than just an LP and a passport!
1)wallet containing three US$10 bills, atm and credit cards
2)passport
3)condoms in case you hit lucky within 20 minutes of landing
- 6 are usually enough for the first hour. after that
restock from a pharmacy when you go out for a six pack.
4)GPS receiver - bugger the altimeter and compass, this does
it all.
golden rule of travelling - take twice the money and half
the clothes.
whatever else you need refer back to (1) above
It's a great list and helped me clarify some of my own
packing, but I'm intrigued by the etc. More details
please!!!!!!!!!!!!
Blah, blah, blah....
1. That's so too much. Wow, that's soo heavy.
2. Complaints, complaints, bla, bla, you're an idiot, etc.
3. Aha, I think you forgot something! : a piano, a
christmas tree, 2 refridgerators, etc, etc, and other funny
remarks.
4. Blah, blah, blah...
5. I know much better what to bring. I have been
everywhere, done everthing, met everyone and all I brought
was this toothpick.
6. No, that's a really useful list. I love you David.
7. blah, bullshit, etc.
8. What the heck, why do you even bother to add a post
here? Like, I didn't.
So, that's about it. I really had to post something here
too, and now I think I've managed to remember to mention
everthing. Keep those important comments coming!
the practical aspect of all this disappeared around post 10.
despite various attempts to put it back on the straight and
narrow it's been one of the best piss takes i've seen in
this area. we should be proud of that if you see the way
other sections have deteriorated.
shit, the original post missed nothing - well it couldn't,
could it being a 13Mb file.
I can't believe my late night post from way back in April
has survived this long!
*
I have to admit that after I first posted it, I got kind of
steamed when all the jabs started showing up. Especially
the post that wondered how I would kill myself on a desert
island. But now the whole thing just seems hilarious.
*
However...EVERYBODY seemed to miss or ignore my statement
that I would never bring ALL of that stuff while
traveling!!! I made the list to help plan exactly what and
what not to bring. Obviously, taking all of those things
WOULD be insane! A nightmare! I mean yeah, I do travel
kinda heavy. But not THAT heavy!
*
(Aside to Jane, who wondered about the "etc." in "condoms,
etc." Well in that context it meant...umm...well let's just
say..."condiments"...)
*
Hey, I'm going to Asia again in early September! Thailand
and Laos, only a month, not too far off the beaten path. So
no altimiter, camcorder, or hiking boots this time. It WILL
be monsoon time though...maybe I should take a big beach
umbrella...or a London Fog overcoat? (Just kidding. for
God's sake!)
*
Good traveling, everybody.
*
*
I tried packing all of this stuff the other day and found
that i needed a frieght container!! Then i didnt have a
fork lift to carry it around with. No seriously, this is
ludicrous!!!! My wife and i backpacked for 2 years with
one backpack and no!, we wernt on the hippy beach trail. U
are ridiculous, but good luck with it anyway.
By the way, all McGiver ever needed to take with him to
survive any situation was a matchstick and some chewing gum.
Matt
sheesh that
was.........................................................
...................
LP,
Before you extinguish this thread, would you mind posting a
notice of some kind so that those of us who wish to could
either print it up or copy it or something to show to those
proverbial grandkids???
And have you noticed: hardly any flaming and mostly clean
language... Much obliged.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE LONELY PLANET...
NEVER DELETE THIS ENTIRE POSTING. I HAVNT LAUGHED SO MUCH
FOR YEARS AND WANT TO SEE WHAT ELSE IS GOING TO BE ADDED
HERE.
Can anyone tell me if there is a travel agent(s)that
arranges 3-4 day trips into Myanmar from Mae Sai as far as
Kengtung?
I know about this guy, G÷ran kropp. He cykled Stockholm -
Katmandu and back and went all the way up to mount everest
without oxygen and he only had 73 kilo , and he was away
for 1 year. What do you say about that david??
Wasa
Mr. Kropp sounds like an interesting traveller --- but 73
kilos? I'm flying to Thailand next week and my airline has
a limit of 70 pounds per bag, which is 31.5 kilos. So his
load was more than double what mine will be. PLUS the
bicycle!
*
Normally I travel for 2 months at a time, but even if I was
packing for a one year trip, I'd probably bring about the
same amount of stuff.
*
73 kilos...that's 160 pounds. VERY heavy! What was G÷ran
Kropp cycling around with --- a year's supply of knackebr÷d
and tinned herring? I'd like to see HIS packing list!!!
*
*
Bravo David!
You obviously know your swedish food-culture.Never
understood how they can eat that sh**.Imagine what 73kilos
of tinned herring will smell like in your
backpack....Aaargh.When you get back from your trip, try to
come up with something equally thought provoking.Well, maybe
this has been a unique debate, but it sure has been fun to
follow.
Have a nice trip with whatever you carry!
You still packing? Have everything?
Have a good trip.
I can remember that mostly 15 or 25 W bulbs in many
gusthouses and hotels through Asia - so what about let say
75 W bulb in backback?
Come on David, don┤t be shy, shoot it, tell as the rest and
hidden stuff you really pack, you reminded me another
traveller,who was he?? oh yes !!! Jesus Christ.
Any caritative soul out there would join a venture creating
some bussiness to provide and carry out packing lists.
Profit guaranteed, high rentability.
This has been fun to read - my first reaction: what a lot of
stuff - and all those drugs - does David fall ill all the
time?
Second reaction: why do people get furious after reading the
list?
But seriously speaking I miss 2 items on the list if it has
to be an extensive list to pick from (+ the tissue paper
mentioned above):
A GPS (if you are going off the beaten track)
and
a mobile phone (GSM - or nowadays aand off the beaten
track: an Iridium - I do not have the slightest idea of
the cost of an Iridium).
OK, I know I come from one of those countries where
literally EVERYBODY from age 6 has a GSM because the phone
companies hands them out for free or for 10-20 USD. I very
rarely use mine at home - but very much when travelling:
People (family) can contact you (directy or on the answering
machine), send you short e-mails. You can call home at lower
rates than at hotels and easier than at public phones - and
you have it for local phonecalls - and for emergency use.
By the way I know of a few remote places where you are ONLY
allowed to enter if you are carrying radio or sattelite
phone!
....haven't had such a good laugh in ages.
BEANBAG? TELEPHONE EXTENSION CORD? SONGBOOK?
Are you mad?
yay to everyone keeping this thing going, it's histerical!
and only the mildest of spamming!
I was just typing up my packing list for my next 6 month
trip today and I can't tell you how good it feels to read
all this and get to feel superior somehow because i've never
been without but always pack less than all the farangs i
see.
I guess some people are just born with it...
it helps when you start at age 15, though.
I hope Hamish is better at navigating from London to
Singapore than he is at navigating the TT
This is a little bit late ... but ... er ...Condiments????
Perhaps I'm a bit naive, but what "condiments" would be
necessary to bring along on a trip? Are there specific
condiments that would be necessary for a trip to SEA?
one sholder bag/moneybelt
one bulky but i love it camera/pencil,paper
one light trousers/ one stronger warmer ones
three t-shirts/ one loose longsleeved shirt
one cashmere poloneck (excellent investment)
one raincoat/thermal vest and leggins
three socks
underwear: three normal one sexy!
swimming costume
one long dress
sandals
sarong
tooth brush and full medical kit fitting into small ice
cream box oh and hairbrush,soap, shampoo
I have been travelling for three years and although I
started off pretty decked out I have ended up with this
which gets me through cold/hot, smart/casual: every
situation. I agree with looking tidy and often wince at
backpackers attire but I also practice the if you can catch
it easily then it's cool method and still get invited
everywhere by the locals. Afterall why travel if you never
hope to speak to the people of the country you are visiting?
The beanbag is a about half the size of your hand. I bring
it if I plan to do a lot of photography. If I'm resting my
camera on a wall or table (or something) for a shot, I put
the beanbag under the camera to stabilize it and get the
position right.
~
The songbook is a little tiny one (like half a cigaret
pack), with the lyrics to about 40 old rock songs (Proud
Mary, The Ballad of John & Yoko, The Tracks of My Tears,
etc.) When plied with intoxicants, and among complete
strangers, I have been known so howl a few of these for the
unfortunate folk who might hear me.
~
Possible list addition: hair styling mousse. Not sure yet;
I'll keep you posted...
~
OK, so I'm only going away for 5 weeks. Makes you think
about the inforseeable. Hair styling mousee... sure, why
the hell not. Shouldn't tip the scales.
I am heading to Vietnam today and found your list useful.
However, I had to laugh hysterically at the responses, you
yourself said you would catch grief and you did.
If anyone has questions about Vietnam, ask me after I return
on November 20th.
Thanks David... I appreciate your efforts in wanting to
educate others. Along with the much valuable information (I
being and intelligent being, am able to pick out what may
and maynot be useful to my situation), I also appreciate the
humor that your list has generated. May you enjoy many more
years of travel.
Thanks to all others who have posted here in response (both
positive and negative posts). For you have all given
something to everyone else... A good laugh, and some
valuable information.
Thanks All,
adam
If u ever go to Singapore, just bring your VISA, that's what we prefer
congratulations on generating the most responses.
lonely planet should put aside a free book for David for
generating the most traffice with one torn tree message.
I last checked this post back in May, had a bit of a
chuckle, now I simply can't believe it's still going. I
guess I'm helping a bit but I just can't help it. I'm back
after six months and all I took was two sarongs (handy all-
over items/towels), light trousers, 2 light shirts, 2 t-
shirts, shorts, swimming shorts, 3*socks, 3*pants, canvas
trainers, thongs, camera, shower gel, toothpaste & brush,
deoderant stick, washing soap, first aid essentials, lp,
camera, film, pens, c-cards, cash and passport, and plenty
of ziplock bags. It's amazing what you can cram into a
disgusting red and brown Eastpak Daysack and still have
plenty of space for any extras (water, gifts, etc), and
it's easy to lock up too. So you don't have to be weighed
down wherever you pop off to. And if you can't be arsed to
wash things every few days, bin the really filthy stuff and
invest a couple dollars - and I only did this once - when I
ripped something. So travel light and ease up.
Simply your MAD!!
All this reminds me of the Spanish bloke I met in Sudan who
just had the clothes he stood up in,a blanket and a
toothbrush and who was quite looking forward to the day that
the blanket got nicked so it would be and i quote "just
me,me dollars and me toothbrush".
Hey man, I doubt you'll get this far down the list to read this but I think it's great that you posted this list. I can't carry all of that but there was a lot of stuff that you mentioned that I would carry and may not have thought of. I suppose it's all those doubters above that will ask you for stuff along the way. If you're physically capable and want the stuff with you then why the hell not? Soldiers carry heavier stuff than that through wars! If it gets to cumbersome I'm sure you will have no problem giving stuff away as you go. Besides airline restrictions, there is no law of backpacking about what you can and can't bring. Good for you dude, I guess you don't have to go to the qym too often lugging around most of that stuff.
Cheers to the guy who likes gadgets.
I almost peed my pants!
Now this is a very thought out list with some very
important overseen things that would make any life easier.
I can only say this. I don't have that much stuff in my
own home, I've only got a small apartment with limited
storage. What would I do living day to day? I mean, if I
owned this much stuff, I would be in a constant state of
moving.
David, are you sure you're not a street person who knows
how to live comfortably?
This is the list of all lists and I'm going to take
advantage of it. I wish I had some of these things when
I'm travelling ( and a fellow named Igor so I can say
"Igor, go to my pack and fetch me a brain")
Let's keep this posting going!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:-)
What would happen if you fell over backwards in some
backwoods place? You'd end up like a turtle on it's back,
kicking away, yelling for someone to tip you over. It
could be a problem, maybe a hydraulic jack should be in
there too.
I'm kidding, but I can't stop thinking about how funny this
topic can be.
Well, I posted before my big trip to South China, Laos, and
Thailand. Now I'm back. Impressions:
Way too much clothes. Two sets was just fine for me.
I can't believe many Western backpackers are advising NOT
travelling with a well-stocked medical kit. I had more
(much more) than is suggested here and was VERY glad TWICE
that I did. If you're in a monastary on a holy mountain
and get sick you can't just pop down to the chemist for
some medicine...leaving aside the difficulty of trying to
EXPLAIN what is wrong with you! I really recommend another
book, BTW: Staying Healthy in Asia, Africa, and Latin
America by the Moon Press (sorry LP!)
George
How easy (or hard) is it to catch a slow boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang? Is there any sort of schedule, or is it when one is there? Thanks for any insight you can give me.
Hey, i guess the poor man forgot a TUXEDO.
This is one of the funniest colum i read
#79 Ben, wonder if that Spanish guy you mention is a P.G.
Wodehouse fan? (When Aung Agatha summons, Bertie Wooster has
no choice but to whimper resignedly, "Rally round, Jeeves
(or words to that effect) It's that aged relative ... pack a
toothbrush," No doubt the better to savour the delectable
delights dished out by Anatole the Chef.
this reminds me of the first time i rendezvoused with my lover in the pacific. i had 4 bottles of champagne in addition to about as much stuff as david. i can only say that it is a great idea to carry a good bottle of champagne, but it will only last long enough for the first kiss (the fourth bottle was flung into the gaping maw of an active volcano when empty)
I once travvelled with two canadians who took baseball gloves and ball to everest base trek!!
-
You just never know when things will come in handy
x
I really try not to pack that much, but I too am guilty of
packing a baseball and mitt. Kinda hard to find a partner to
toss the ball around with because nobody else remembers to
pack a glove, sigh*
surely the champagne would be duty free carried in a plastic
bag. i'm not sure that it would really count.
With four bottles of champagne to cart around, I feel a
small portable refrigerator would be absolutely de rigeur.
But remember to leave space in the pack for a couple of car
batteries to keep it chilling...
For underwear I just take 2 pair of silk boxers - saw it recommended on the TT - really good option - for men and women.
Heading off next week and thought I'd use this as a
checklist but then I realised I couldn't afford a second
pack.
Anyone got a spare lying around?
Bulk carriers internationial wishes to welcome all similar
travellers like David to our transportation services.
we even have some special dropping planes for delivering
specially designed air drop pallets for your specific
travelling needs wherever you may want to go.
For references check the UN relief organisations in all 3rd
world countries concerning food and relief drops, The
Russian State Circus for the transportation of their
wildlife stock and NASA for the delivery of their Space
Project Shuttle Parts. Discrete delivery guaranteed.
haven't seen one of those for a long time. must go back to
nana plaza some time!!
#20 about suicide. There are a zillion and one things in David's list that are quite handy: phone extension cord, extension cord, nylon cord, knife, swiss knife, razor, extra blades, fork, ziploc bags, big plastic bags, condoms (yap, pull this over your head), sleeping sheet (tear it up, form a rope), adhesive tape (over nose and mouth), etc. Death choices when you can't find a cliff, high rise building, river, well, sea, etc: hanging, bleed or suffocate yourself to death. Or take all that medicine in one go. Heck! Wasn't there some book in Japan on one thousand and one ways to committ suicide? Better pack that, too.
David, Do you seriously carry your little song book around so that you can whip it out anytime and have an impromtu karaoke session when you are "plied with intoxicants"? A big guy under the influence of alcohol or drugs singing with a tiny, tiny, little songbook in hand. Hmmm, interesting.
What on earth is the world atlas for? Aren't local maps (and the compass...in Bangkok!) good enough? Why do you need both candles (with two/three lighters) and a torch (with extra batteries and bulbs)? Are you afraid of being lost in the dark? Mosquito zapper AND repellent AND net? OK, you said you may not take all three but hmm..three options for one bug. What about the leeches, snakes, scorpions, etc, etc? Maybe some doctor/nurse wasn't very nice to you when they took your blood sample when you were young...interesting, what you said about flip flops, sandals and toilets.
And tweezers? What would a man on a backpacking trip do with a pair of tweezers? Where I come from, we use tweezers only for trimming eyebrows. Maybe before you use your condiments? Eyemask! Call me sexist but... and there are always tea bags you know, when you get to the nearest town.
An umbrella? You must be English! #1 was wrong! I've been round Asia, Australia and Europe and the only time when I really wished I had an umbrella was during the 36-hr bus journey from Golmud to Lhasa in 1986. There weren't any toilets/hole-in-the-ground-with-maggots-crawling-all-round or bushes/trees along the way. Wonder if it's still like that?
...just kidding. If you are happy carrying all that stuff, go for it. Must say I agree to be safe rather than sorry where first aid kit is concerned especially if i don't speak the local language. I would carry my own pack of blood if I could.
eh?
David -- I thought I'd drop you a long overdue "thanks"! I
just returned from Laos and, although I did not pack a
songbook (I limited myself to under 10kg so it did not make
the "must take" list), I did remember this post. On
numerous occasions when I was visiting villages and my
sign/body language was exhausted, I broke into song (it
didn't really matter that I didn't remember the words) --
from lullabyes to soothe crying children to more modern
songs when the urge struck. The results were amazing (the
baby did stop crying and the others, it apeared, thought I
was only moderately insane but warmed up nonetheless). So
thanks for the songbook suggestion!
Geeze man, I spent 6 months on the road over 3 continents
with 2 pr of shorts, 4 pr undies, 3 pr socks, 1 pr jeans, 4
shirts, toiletries, camera&film, earplugs, one thick
flannel shirt, my LP "Bible", and a padlock. All of which
fits into a small backpack that is the envy of most fellow
trekkers. Then I spent another 3 months all over asia with
a similar checklist! I didn't need all those clothes, but
I get sick of seeing the same clothes on me all the time.
What's even more amazing is that I'm American!!!
PS This post has given me a lot of good laughs. I hope
ya'll at LP never delete this! Thanks.
It will fit well with your sewing stuff so customs won't
bother you. Your needles can be mixed with poison and your
custom made walking cane is the blow pipe. You blow the
darts at any VIPs or ex girlfriends and get away with it.
Nobody will see or hear the poison darts. But you have to
practice before you go out for your kill. Use your song book
as a target. Draw a head and neck life size and blow
away.Unreal how the darts go right through your song pages
yea? Well, it depends on the distance. Depending on how
strong wind you are, the closer the better. Get good at this
and you will be surprise how good your skills will get with
a Gun. It takes time, breathing, and hand and eye
cordination. Good luck, David. Aim for the neck.
I'm just joking with you, Dave.
Stay cool. I hope you can set some kind of record on LP.
Hi folks, keep on giving us the good info we all need...
greetings
We are off to Australia for a year at the end of February.We
have a stopover in BKK for 7 days. Any ideas of where we
should go,what to see and where to stay which is not too
expensive. Any tips for first time backpackers would be
great. I am 19 and will be travelling with 3 friends about
the same age.
Thanks Ben,Charlotte,Rosina and Dan
Did a search; couldn't find it - I'm amazed. It's one of the
best icebreakers there is when you're out in the bush
amongst the locals.
You can't possibly leave home without one!
I used the list as a checklist. Of course I won't bring all
the stuff on the list, but it reminded me to bring along
some things I otherwise would have forgotten.
I'm heading for SEA now, and want to thank the guy who put
up this list!
Well, obviously everyone spends far too much time on their
computers.
And I would realy like to know how this guy remebers
everything!!
What happens on the way to the airport and you forgot one
of your te-shirts!! Or your compus?
My guess is that the "hardcores" who only pack a toothbrush
can manage because they regularly bump into someone like
you! the pompous bores just won't admit it. BTW the
shortwave radio is a real lifesaver---I've passed many a
dull evening listening to VOA, BBC and the local stations.
"News from home" also is a great conversation starter in
guesthouses.
OH MY GOD !!! What a lot of responses !
In my EXTENSIVE travels I prefer to travel nude . The
airline ticket covers the genitals ( only just though ! )
and I can get the credit card and passport into the most
convenient hiding place known to man - although I did have
to undertake quite a rigorous " sphincter training
programme " some months before my intended departure dates.
Alas I could only travel during the warmer months ;
shrinkage being the least of my problems ; but at least I
was always given a wide berth by the authorities and the
locals seemed quite animated in their attempts to strike up
a conversation.
One final tip for the unwary - watch those airline
seatbelts - once you're buckled in it can be a VERY
uncomfortable flight if you haven't made the necessary `pre-
flight adjustments'.
Good luck to you all !
Between posts 101 and 102, you'll see a large gap of more
than a month, which had actually wasn't so and
people had in fact been posting at regular intervals until
some busybody at LP earlier this month went and deleted/lost
the most recent posts.
Anyway, one I do remember is to carry cut cucumber slices in
a plastic bag, apply them on your eyes on that long flight
and wake up with fresh eyes. (Needless to say, I
paraphrase)/
1) Cut off the handle from your toothbrush
2) Do the math thing with dental floss: once a day X number
of days X 6 inches per day = inches of floss to bring
3) Go for titanium edged-aluminum razor blades= half the
weight of the steel ones
4) Ditch the writing pad and use toilet paper as your
journal. then you can use it to wipe your arse. keep the
used t.p. in a ziplock bag--that way you can compare how
your shit color changes while you travel, what food wasn't
digested
.
.
I, too, often get teased for having a lot of
emergency/contingency stuff in my luggage, but I can't tell
you how many times it's saved my (and my traveling
companions') butts. As you said, most of this stuff doesn't
weigh much (what weighs me down in my video/camera
equipment!) but I use a luggage cart and manage to get to
all the same places the other, minimalist backpackers get
to, in some pretty remote places.
And although I do bring lots of stuff, I bring the smallest
amount/size of everything I need. I don't bother with
bottles of shampoo or tubes of toothpaste and other common
stuff because you can always buy that traveling. (take just
enough for the first day or two) A tiny compass (size of a
fingernail!) is very useful to orient yourself to a map in a
new place. A watch/calculator has a useful double function.
I also have one of those glow-in-the-dark star maps which
allow you to dial in your location. (They're only the size
of a large postcard). I always carry my own plastic
chopsticks in Asia. (You can can hepatitis etc. from
unwashed/ unclean bamboo ones)
A drain stopper is a must if you intend to wash your
clothes. Also the immersion coil for boiling water is very
light and very useful. Not only can you make tea, soup,
noodles -- if you need it, but you can boil water for
drinking if you must.
I thoroughly agree about looking "respectable" while
traveling. I always wear a skirt or dress Neither I nor my
husband ever wear jean, nor shorts, despite the heat. We get
treated much better by the locals than a lot of the
"grungier" backpackers, get invited into more homes, have
fewer problems with customs and other officials, etc. (We're
not talking about polyester leisure suits... just simple
stuff which washes out easily, dries fast and needs no
ironing.)
I like the stamp idea for gifts. Postcards of home are good,
too.
For our next trip, I found a bunch of tiny Avon lipstick
samples and little perfume samples for women. Balloons, pens
and pencils, stickers, lowest denomination coins of your own
country are always great for kids. Again, all small, cheap
and light weight
One important thing you forgot from your list: a tube of
crazy glue. It weighs almost nothing but, boy, it has sure
come in handy more times than I can count!
Another thing which I'm sure will cause riotous laughter and
plenty of snide comments -- but before I leave for a long
flight, I slice up a cucumber and put it in a zipper bag and
take it on the plane with us. We put the slices on our eyes,
then put the sleep mask over them. You cannot believe how
soothing this is to the eyes on a long, dry flight!. Laugh
all you want, but the first time you try this, you'll thank
me! And when you land, instead of feeling as if you have a
couple of tennis balls in your eye sockets, your eyes will
be fresh and rested.
I went to SouthEast Asia with nothing but a change of
clothes and a disposable camera. It was the best. I went
anywhere and everywhere at a drop of a hat. Eventually
because of the heat, I found I had to buy underwear and a
towel. Basically, once there I found out exactly what I
really needed. So the whole trip I kept it light, bought
tourist pants and shirts and had a great time. Never
carried more than a light light backpack. It was perfect,
and I'd recommend this type of travel to anyone.
Two years ago came to Bangkok from Chiang Mai with a
shoulder bag full of books and a spare shirt. The full kit
including a suit was locked up where I couldn't get at it.
It may be still there. ;-)
I was quite comfortable slopping around in shorts and a
faded blue farmers shirt but Thai friends wanted me to look
good and kept giving me clothes. Didn't want anything but
sorta have to be polite, sigh.
I used to travel around with a hard disk with all my
software on it. Now its all stored up on the Internet.
Nobody has wanted to look at my passport for nearly two
years. I sometimes wonder if I really really need it.
Now if I could quit accumulating books.... what a light
load I would have.
I think Wasa the Swede (post #21) forgot his trousers. Just
a thought...
No he didn┤t. That┤s the way we travel. No trouser with the
things dingeling around.
This is hysterical.
Well, I for one, appreciated your list. I have not
travelled extensively and found it a good place to start.
Thanks for taking the time.... And to everyone who gave you
a hard time: If there's too much stuff on the list- don't
bring it. End of story.
Have you ever noticed that you can wear boxers over and over
again on vacation without washing, and have no fear of
smell? Why does it work like that? I wore the same pair of
boxers for 3 weeks in Cambodia, and never had a problem. I
showered thoroughly everyday, but I never neede to wash my
clothes - very strange.
~
Also, I wonder about those people who do not bring a stick
of deoderant along with their toothbrush. That is
absolutely disgusting. And in case you think the locals
don't notice the smell, watch what happens in Bangkok when
some of the Africans with there putrid body odor walk by.
Disgusting.
i just came down here for the first time for ages and saw
the polaroid post. you can amuse the "locals" for ages with
a laser light. had kids running up the street after it and
all sorts. doesn't weigh much either. can't remember why i
even had it.
I've never made it down this far, but I saw 118 posts, and I had to look. I'm writing in hopes that it will save the post for at least another few days. I was amazed by the list. I don't think I have all of those things in my house. I'm going to print it out just for when I go shopping next.
Hi Adrienne,
How'd you do that? If I'm not being indiscreet, where had
you cached it/found it cached? (Wd be especially interesting
if you'd got it online instead of from your own computer
memory.)
Let's hope Mr LP Busybody won't get at these parts again.
You fucking idiot - you left out my guidebook. Your list is
therefore entirely worthless.
Delhi India: Amercan tourist slain, young girl
in detention.
An Amercan man was found dead this morning in what police
describe as mysteriuos circumstances.
A young Indian girl is incustody after apparently bashing
the man with a short wave radio he was carrying, then
chocking him with a particle mask. She was heard to scream
"I will have my beloved Ravid now, forever" before attacking
the unfortunate tourist.
Close relatives were in deep shock and could not understand
the reasons for the unprovoked attack. They did say that the
young girl had been recently promised the hand in marriage
to the local Indian stud, but was was severly distraught
when the his parents declined the offer. Apparrently the
marriage would not go ahead due to insufficient dowry.....
Delhi India: Amercan tourist slain, young girl
in detention.
An Amercan man was found dead this morning in what police
describe as mysteriuos circumstances.
A young Indian girl is incustody after apparently bashing
the man with a short wave radio he was carrying, then
chocking him with a particle mask. She was heard to scream
"I will have my beloved Ravid now, forever" before attacking
the unfortunate tourist.
Close relatives were in deep shock and could not understand
the reasons for the unprovoked attack. They did say that the
young girl had been recently promised the hand in marriage
to the local Indian stud, but was was severly distraught
when the his parents declined the offer. Apparrently the
marriage would not go ahead due to insufficient dowry.....
me, i take a carpet bag and that's all. reach down and
hat-stands and everything you could possibly want. then it's
a jolly holiday (with you bert)...
The stupidest thing I ever packed was the remote control for
the TV. Seriously. And I couldn't even chuck it because I
needed it. So however it got there (and there are several
suspects) I had to cart it around for three months.
I can't believe it!! Ages ago, it seems, when I was still a
working mortal, I read this post at work. Now, about a year
later I'm hanging around Asia and saw this post in a Khao
San Road internet cafe. My first thought: 'Ah, David's
reposted his packing list'. Nope, still the same thread.
Happy birthday, packing list.
I truly cannot believe you sad motherfuckers sit around and a re motivated
to regularly read, write you, and get excited about something as fucking
tragic as a packing list. I have the honour of being (it would seem) the
first "post-birthday" posting here, why, why, why are people prompted to
respond?
You did!
I'm travelling to thailand very soon for the first time so I
shall be following the advice to the letter, I think it's
very mean of you all to make fun of him this way.
I thought I'd take an inner-tube as well in case I want to
paddle.
WENNA.
Not that I can add much to David's list but this seemed as
good as any place to post this - Does anyone remember 'Big
Verv from Texas'???? I'm sure he's still out there in South
East Asia tripping over some of the few things David hasn't
packed in his backpack(s)...
C'mon Big Verve send us your latest adventure...
I forgot to add the footpump (last but one post,
above)!
i wouldn't never have guessed when i first read this that
this message posted on Apr 22 ...is actually MORE than a
year old !!! amazing .... and amusing !
congratulations david ....for generating such a wide range
of emotions from a "simple" checklist !
i think those lost souls such as HAMISH, or BEN & CO.
actually wandered here and mistook these postings for the
main THORN TREE !!
soooo ....to keep this page from being deleted (since it's
the last message in TT) for the amusement of others who have
yet wandered in...i've decided to add a posting here!
I left to travel around the world nearly 5 years ago now. I
left with many of the same things in your check list David
(thanks for the shortwave) but not nearly s much stuff. The
only problem now is that I seem to have picked up stuff
along the way like a car, a kayak, house hold appliences,
ice and rock climbing gear,wet suits, etc. Somehow I still
only have 2 shirts, 1 shorts, 2 pairs of pants and a fleece
for clothing (plus under garnments of course). Traveling
has changed since I am no longer dependant on busses and
trains (but loading and unloading the car is a real drag).
Now the question is how do I get back home with all this
stuff!!! Where did it all come from??? How can I get rid of
it ????
Your list is amazing! Although I won't be carrying
everything from this list, I hope I run into someone who
does!