ESSENTIAL TRAVEL KIT
In this factsheet we outline the essential pieces of kit we think you should take and why!
Travel bag
Even though these can be the most expensive types of bags they have loads more features and will last for years. A detachable daysack means you can take the essentials and your valuables away during the day and leave the rest in your accommodation. You can also zip away your rucksack straps to protect them during flights. They also open sideways so its much easier to access and store your belongings.
Torch
A torch is an essential accessory for travelling. From fnding your toothbrush in a hostel to avoiding snakes on your way to the dunny it’ll come in handy trust us! Maglite make the best torches in the world. They are shockproof and waterproof and used by the armed forces.
Travel Towel
Taking a regular towel in your luggage will mean you won’t have space for much else. It will also take ages to dry and probably start to smell if you leave it in your bag! Travel towels are developed to be much more compact, dry faster and many now have an antibacterial treatment which stops them rotting or smelling. A great investment for extra space and good smells!
Money Belt
One thing you really don’t want to do on your trip is lose your tickets or passport. A money belt means you can keep them close to hand next to your body. It also stops thieves getting their hands on them!
Travel Sewing Kit
A great little kit for fixing clothes when a tiger attacks you or you get attached to your rucksack zips. Also very useful in case you get problem with rucksack straps or your baggage in general. Failing that you could so some cross stitching.
Document Wallet
There is nothing worse than rifling through your dirty clothes in your bag as someone stands over you demanding your passport. Solve this embarrasing problem by storing your documents in a handy wallet. They will last longer as well!
Combination Luggage Lock
Getting a lock that secures the zips on your bag will keep away would be thieves on buses and in hostels. Remember if you are going to the USA to get a TSA approved one. We would also recommend a combination one as its much easier to remember a number and if you lose your keys you are scuppered!!
Travellers First Aid Kit
A health essential this one. You should take a basic first aid kit wherever you are heading. If you are heading to a more developing area then get a much more comprehensive one including sterile needles and water treatment. A survival blanket and bite treatment are also useful in your kit..
Fist aid kit to include:
- Antiseptic wipes
- Bandages
- Dressings
- Plasters
- Paracetamol/Ibruprofen/Loperamide
- Zinc Oxide
- Sterile Needles
- Anti-fungal powder/cream
- Re-hydration sachets
- Anti-Malarial tablets – Please seek the advice of your GP
- Diarrhoea and laxative tablets – you never know!
- Small tub of Vaseline
- Prickly heat powder/lotion
- Emergency survival blanket
- Energy bars/trail mix
Personal toiletries and medication
- Antiseptic wipes
- Bandages
- Dressings
- Plasters
- Paracetamol/Ibruprofen/Loperamide
- Zinc Oxide
- Sterile Needles
- Anti-fungal powder/cream
- Re-hydration sachets
- Anti-Malarial tablets – Please seek the advice of your GP
- Diarrhoea and laxative tablets – you never know!
- Small tub of Vaseline
- Prickly heat powder/lotion
- Emergency survival blanket
- Energy bars/trail mix
Baggage/Sleeping
Large Rucksack: Top-loader: Try this on numerous occasions before travelling to get used to it
Sleeping Liner/Lightweight Sleeping Bag (synthetic, NO Down)
Sleeping Mat: Foam or Self-inflating but be conscious of the weight
Hammock with compatible Mosquito Net
Bungees and paracords
Dry-Bags/Waterproof Bags for both keeping clothes dry and isolating wet clothes
Rucksack waterproof cover
Lightweight hiking shoes/sandals: Must withstand getting wet and must be worn in before the trip.
Flip-flops: Wear only around the campsite after a days trek. DO NOT hike in these.
Lightweight socks
Blister plasters and foot powder
Large Rucksack: Top-loader: Try this on numerous occasions before travelling to get used to it
Sleeping Liner/Lightweight Sleeping Bag (synthetic, NO Down)
Sleeping Mat: Foam or Self-inflating but be conscious of the weight
Hammock with compatible Mosquito Net
Bungees and paracords
Dry-Bags/Waterproof Bags for both keeping clothes dry and isolating wet clothes
Rucksack waterproof cover
Lightweight hiking shoes/sandals: Must withstand getting wet and must be worn in before the trip.
Flip-flops: Wear only around the campsite after a days trek. DO NOT hike in these.
Lightweight socks
Blister plasters and foot powder