Planning for an 8-month-long trip can be quite a challenge, especially when you’re traveling through vastly different climate zones—from the mountain peaks of the Himalayas and the Andes to the jungles of Papua New Guinea and Central America. Adding the need to bring a computer for work doesn’t make it any easier. The aim was to keep the luggage weight to a maximum of 14kg and hand luggage to 9kg when flying.
Here are 10 essential gadgets that I believe every backpacker might find useful:
1. Gore-tex Jacket (like the Arcteryx Alpha LT) – This small, breathable jacket can be used in temperatures ranging from -20 degrees to +30. Choose a lightweight one that takes up little space. Options like Arcteryx Alpha LT, Arcteryx Alpha SL, and Haglofs LIM are excellent choices. You’ll be surprised how versatile it is, even in the mountains of Borneo!
2. Flashlight (such as the Coast LED Lenser P7) – An energy-efficient, bright flashlight will be incredibly useful in countries with poor infrastructure. In places like Burma and Albania, a flashlight is a necessity.
3. Water Bottle (like the Katadyn EXstream) – Clean water can be hard to find in underdeveloped countries, especially when you’re on the move. A water purifier built into a sports bottle can be a lifesaver.
4. Clock/Watch (Silicone Watch) – While some need specialized watches for diving or mountaineering, I just needed to know the time, so I opted for the smallest watch I could find.
5. Pacsafe (Travel Safe 20L) – This pack bag comes with built-in steel cables and locks to help secure your computer and photographic equipment.
6. Compression Bags (Eagle Creek Pack-It) – These are great for compressing clothes and other items, helping to save space in your backpack.
7. Waterproof Camera – A durable camera is a great addition if you plan to venture into environments that require more rugged equipment.
8. Travel Alarm (Cavius Travel Alarm) – Handy if someone breaks into your room and you have valuable items. There’s also a smaller and cheaper version available at Clas Ohlson.
9. Speaker (X-mini Max) – Perfect for sharing music without the need to carry a heavy speaker. While the sound isn’t top-tier, it’s good enough for a relaxing evening on the porch.
10. Gorillapod (Gorillapod Zoom) – A fantastic addition to a standard tripod; it’s lighter and takes up less space. It comes in various sizes and has bendable legs to attach to different objects.