Mastering the Art of Packing for Your 2024 Backpacking Adventure

You've secured your ideal backpacking journey. The only thing standing between you and the amazing experiences ahead is... your packing list, which is still empty.

Feeling overwhelmed about where to start? Whether your travels take you through one country or ten, this essential packing guide will help you avoid sore shoulders and broken bags.

Choosing the Perfect Backpack for Your Adventure

Before you decide what to pack, you need to figure out the best bag for your gear. With countless backpack brands and models available, finding the ideal one can feel daunting. While some swear you can travel for six months with just a tiny carry-on, others share horror stories of hauling a bulky 90L pack across the globe.

The ideal choice usually falls in the range of 40–70L for long-term travel. The key is not to overstuff it. Many first-time travelers are tempted to pack everything they might need, but limiting your space is crucial to avoiding this mistake.

Consider options like the Kelty Redwing 50, which is an excellent choice for both men and women. This robust 50L pack features an internal frame and is perfect for both hiking trails and hostel-hopping.

If possible, visit an outdoor store to try on various backpacks for size and comfort. A rucksack that fits your tall, broad-shouldered friend might not suit you if you have a smaller frame. Take your time adjusting the shoulder straps, back length, and hip straps to ensure a proper fit.

Don’t forget to bring a high-quality daypack as well. It can fit inside your main backpack or serve as carry-on luggage. We recommend the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack, which weighs just over 5oz (about 150g) and won’t add unnecessary weight when not in use.

Explore more: Your ultimate packing guide

Packing cubes and compression bags

To truly optimize space in your backpack, merely stuffing socks into your shoes will only go so far. Trust me—compression sacks will become your best allies. They not only save significant space but also keep your clothes safe from dirt and spills, plus they help separate your dirty laundry from the prized clean underwear.

Packing cubes can be a game changer for organizing individual outfits, especially in places where rummaging through your backpack is a hassle. This is particularly handy for camping or when staying in tight quarters like a sailboat or camper van.

• For top-notch packing cubes, check out Shake Pak. They are durable and come in various sizes.

• To prevent shampoo leaks and ensure easy access, store toiletries in a high-quality, clear, waterproof bag, like these TSA-approved toiletry bags.

Always opt for versatile clothing.

While it might require some extra thought, the simplest way to stay stylish on the road is by packing a “capsule wardrobe.” No need for a Pinterest board (unless you really want one). Sticking to a neutral color palette and including lots of layers allows for easy mixing and matching. You might be surprised by the variety of outfits you can create with just a few tops and some well-chosen accessories.

A large, eye-catching scarf or sarong is an incredibly versatile accessory: it keeps you warm, serves as a cushion on long bus rides, and can cover your shoulders or hair when visiting sacred sites. The stylish Mer Sea travel wrap is both cozy and fashionable, and it even comes with its own carrying bag.

Read more: Expert tips on packing for a major trip

Health essentials and comforts from home

You definitely need a first-aid kit, but think strategically: unless you're heading to an incredibly remote area with no access to basic medicines or supplies, you likely don’t need a dozen packs of painkillers and a liter of liquid skin.

A compact kit with Band-Aids, blister pads, a few painkillers, antiseptic cream, antihistamines, travel sickness tablets, and any necessary prescription medications or contraceptives should be more than adequate (along with your invaluable anti-diarrhea pills and laxatives).

To support your mental well-being, make sure to pack earplugs, an eye mask, and—if you have trouble falling asleep—a soothing lavender essential oil roll-on:

• These earplugs are both reusable and moldable, ensuring a comfortable fit for any ear shape.

• This silk eye mask from Slip is soft and lightweight, perfect for blocking out light on long flights or in hostels lacking blackout curtains.

• For a peaceful night’s sleep, consider the NOW organic Lavender calming blend. This essential oil is certified organic and non-GMO.

Eco-conscious essentials

It’s 2024. The mantra of “take only pictures, leave only footprints” is no longer sufficient. Bring along a reusable water bottle (with a built-in filter if needed), such as the stainless steel LifeStraw Go. Whenever possible, choose packaging-free or refillable toiletries instead of multiple travel-sized products. Consider lightweight bamboo straws and utensils like Greenzla's travel cutlery set, which rolls up neatly and includes a cleaning brush.

Also, don’t forget eco-friendly sunscreen like Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+, which is safe for coral reefs and EWG-certified.

Despite claims of being biodegradable, wet wipes can cause significant blockages in sewage systems, especially in developing countries. Instead, opt for a flannel or muslin cloth for effective face washing. Using zero-waste sanitary products—such as reusable towels, menstrual cups, or period-friendly underwear—will help reduce expenses and save space in your backpack.

Read more: 8 eco-friendly destinations where sustainability is a priority

Technology and entertainment essentials

Whether you're a digital nomad or just traveling, you'll likely need some tech gear. Even if it’s just a smartphone, remember to pack a charger, a global adaptor, and a portable battery—essential for relying on mapping apps. If you add a laptop, camera, GoPro, drone, and Kindle, your gear becomes both more valuable and heavier. Keep your tech in your carry-on whenever possible, and as you’ll soon hear in station announcements, never leave your bag unattended.

Don't forget to do some digital packing: download essential apps before you set off to avoid unreliable Wi-Fi or costly roaming fees. If you enjoy reading physical books or guidebooks, limit yourself to one or two—you can swap them out at book exchanges along the way.

Find the perfect Dinogo Planet guidebook for your adventure

Locking devices and backup documents

A small padlock on your backpack zippers can help prevent theft of your belongings, while larger ones are useful for securing hostel lockers (which tend to be overpriced if you need to buy one on the spot). It’s wise to carry hard copies of your passport, driver’s license, and insurance documents, or at least store digital versions on a USB stick, in case they are lost or stolen.

Items to leave behind

• Sleeping bag: Most hostels prohibit these to help control bedbug infestations, and they typically provide fresh sheets instead.

• Hairdryer and high heels: You'll quickly adopt a more casual style—consider visiting a local salon if you want to dress up for a night out.

• Neck pillow: These can take up too much space unless you opt for an inflatable version. Even then, is it really necessary?

• Items of sentimental value: Insurance won’t replace priceless keepsakes, so leave heirloom jewelry at home.

• A regular towel: While many travelers recommend against standard towels, some prefer them over microfiber ones. Remember, everyone has their own preferences. If you really want to bring something, go ahead—if it becomes too cumbersome, you can always send it back home or donate it while traveling.

Further tips for your backpacking journey:

• Check out our ultimate guide to packing like a pro

• Discover how to find the best airfare deals

• What does backpacking really mean? The ongoing travel discussion