Welcome to my gear page with everything you need to know about what to pack, which items are essential, and what, after over three years of traveling nonstop, I consider to be the best possible items to have on hand when traveling abroad.
Whether you're traveling to hot or cold climates, developed or developing countries, through Europe, Asia, South America, North America, Oceania or Africa, these items all make sense to bring with you on the road to make your life easier, to protect your belongings, and to have a more worry-free vacation.
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Recommended Packing Gear
When I'm not traveling carry-on only, I take a 55L backpack along with me. It's perfect for when I'm traveling long term in varying climates or need to take a lot of camera gear with me, plus it's comfortable and fits my body well. Generally, I suggest trying backpacks on in person, but if you can't then go for Osprey, REI or Pacsafe.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Containment Set
My biggest secret for packing light and being organized when traveling? Packing cubes! I've had the same Eagle Creek cube for three years and take it on absolutely every trip with me, packing it to the brim and it's still just as good as new. Worth its (light) weight in gold!
Pacsafe Anti-Theft Backpack & Bag Protector
I can't tell you how many dorms, bamboo huts, and even hotel rooms I've stayed in where I was so glad to have this wire mesh bag protector. If you travel long-term, eventually you will come across a situation where there is no locker or safe, and that's when this wire mesh bag comes in very handy. I never travel without it.
If you plan to pack carry-on only, this is a very simple and straightforward backpack with all of the awesome anti-theft technology, and I especially like that it opens up like a suitcase.
Camera Gear
I bought this camera because it's just one model down from the camera that all of my favorite photographers use (the A7). It's lightweight, excellent in low light, and has tons of functions including WiFi capabilities. This camera helped me take my photos to the next level
When I want to take stellar photos with not just what the eye can see, but the periphery as well, my wide-angle lens helps me get all of the scenery into one shot, beautifully.
For rad underwater shots, videos, or to have a versatile camera that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, check out the GoPro. I love it for the fish-eye effect and for situations when a normal camera would bite the dust (or water!)
I resisted buying a tripod for a long time and now I wonder why. They're essential for long-exposure shots and this one is super cheap at under $40!
For the Ladies
Everything I know from three years of traveling all over the world solo in one convenient book. Designed to take the fear out of planning so that you can get right to enjoying the trip of a lifetime.
Pacsafe Citysafe CX Crossbody Bag
When I'm out for the afternoon without my camera gear or computer (which are locked up in my room), I love this slash-proof shoulder bag with locking zippers to peruse markets and walk around cities with fewer worries.
Most of the time when I travel, nothing goes on my face - except for daily moisturizer with SPF! This is a mineral sunscreen that is reef-safe and non-greasy.
You never know when you'll need your own towel - at a beach where your accommodation only provides one, at a hostel where there aren't any on offer, when camping, or when staying with friends, it's always nice to have your own quick-drying towel.
Other Essentials
Travel insurance is a must no-matter where you're traveling. Sure, the small stuff can be covered out of pocket, but when a real emergency strikes, travel insurance can bring you home, pay your medical bills, and help you to replace your stolen belongings. Should the worst occur, be prepared.
Anker PowerCore Portable Charger
Why did I resist a portable charger for so long? This thing is so convenient, and has saved me more than once when my camera ran out of battery, or worse, my phone at a time when I needed it for navigation. This model is cheap, holds four charges, and can charge up to two things at once via USB cable.
I like to read when I travel - a lot! What I don't like is lugging around several books or only having to choose between what's on offer at the book exchange. The Kindle allows me to carry hundreds of books at once without the weight, and the battery power lasts nice and long too!