Insert fancy youtube quality video, good lighting, smooth transitions, and trendy background music. Oh wait, I forgot that I struggle with editing pictures on Instagram and this post has taken me over three weeks to complete. So on that note, here is a little #nofliter picture of what six months abroad looks like:
It took me several weeks and bargain online shopping to find the right pack for me. Unfortunately, in Florida there is a limited market for hiking/travel bags. After reading many reviews, I went with the Gregory Deva 60. It fit my needs for this trip: multiple compartments, horseshoe front zipper, comfortable hip belt that moves with my hips that do not lie, water resistant, and large enough to fit all the essentials. Luckily, the Container Store opened in Boca Raton just in time to satiate my needs for all things travel organization aka everything Eagle Creek.
Inside the Backpack...
Small Rectangle Cube 1: 6 headbands (the amount of headbands is inversely proportional to how crazy I look). I have also included four bras. Space is limited so two pairs are sports bralettes to conserve space.
Small Rectangle Cube 2- 9 panties, two of which are Exofficio brand which advertise extended travel with one or maybe two pairs! I should explain... Jonathan first told me about this brand and I was as skeptical about this as you are. At $20 a pair it was an investment, so therefore a well researched purchase. Apparently they are supposed to be moisture wicking, durable, light weight panties that can be hand washed repeatedly and hold up. I obviously was not completely sold and without experiencing it first hand I decided to bring several more underwear. 3 pairs of ankle socks, and 3 pairs of no-show black socks are also included in this cube.
Disclaimer: Almost three weeks into the trip and I dont think that the Exofficio's have been worth it. Perhaps they will prove me wrong...at $20, hopefully they prove me wrong.
Large Square Cube 1- (bottoms) 2 pairs of mid thigh shorts, 1 denim shorts, 1 pair of barely bootcut jeans, black leggings, gym shorts, two pairs pajama pants, and 1 pair pajama shorts. *Remember, socially appropriate lounge wear is essential for hostel living.*
Large Square Cube 2- (tops) 1 long sleeve shirt, 2 short sleeve shirts, one button down, one dressy shirt, two camisoles, 1 tank top, and one exercise tank top. I figure if I ever get really cold I can just wear all of my tops at once.
I also brought one long skirt and another dress/skirt that can be worn 8 different ways. I held on to that tag of instructions because with such limited clothes, I would hate to find out that I did not wear it all 8 ways.
Bathing Suits- 2 pairs of bathing suits that I can mix and match...thats 4 different looks :)
Shoes- 3 pairs of shoes. Flip flops, trail sneakers, and Keens. (The Keens are featured in the pic above) I got two shoe bags, so I can always put the two pairs that i am not wearing in them while traveling. I should also add that I store my shoes and my laundry bag at the bottom of my bag in the sleeping bag compartment to keep them separated from the rest of my clothes.
Toiletries- Go Toobes! I may be one of the biggest fans. At a perfect three ounces, I brought 6 of them and I will refill as we travel with whatever the locals use. To carry them all, I originally purchased a clear hard plastic pouch but i quickly found that it was not malleable enought to acommodate my tubes and therefore wasted space. So after a little more research, I found a highly recommended brand on Etsy called Airquart. 1 quart sized clear malleable plastic pouch with a handle. Sounds simple but really a lifesaver when airport security decides to be sticklers.
Also Included in the pack:
1 brush
1 wide toothed comb
1 first aide kit
a few earrings
makeup- and by makeup i mean eyeliner, eyeshadow, and lipgloss. (All in an effort to not scare you away with my pictures)
pouch with electronics chargers, flashlight, and locks
Baggalini daybag
Quick dry travel towel (not all hostels provide towels)
Rain jacket
Fleece jacket
Tissues, antibacterial handgel etc.
I think that sums most of it up. Three weeks in and I can say that I am REALLY happy with my packing choices and I would recommend them all to an extended traveler. (minus the $20 drawers) If you have any questions feel free to ask!
