Packing to Live Out of a Backpack 

I want to start off with the fact that I know I’m going to Australia, a country that has plenty of stores and options to buy what I need there. But, I really wanted to set myself up with the basics and ideally not spend a lot of my money on new items while I’m there, instead focus on new experiences.

To start off, I needed to find the backpacks. After A LOT of research, I settled on two:

  • Gregory Proxy 65L:  The Proxy stood out with a separate shoe compartment and ActiveShield section to separate dirty/clean and wet/dry gear. I also love the move of outdoor companies for travel backpacks that open like a suitcase versus top-loading. 

  • REI Ruckpack 28L: My day pack was TOUGH. When I first started looking, I thought I would like a larger pack with a detachable day pack. When I went to try bags on stores though I found I wanted more from my day back and carry on. I found this one through a recommendation of a friend, and I love it. Top requirements were a laptop compartment, hydration pack convertible, and pockets for organization. This also has a function for hooks and straps to be concealed, which makes for a smooth, urban look when I’m not hiking.

Other Bags/Organizers:

  • Purse

  • Packing Cubes

  • Dry Bags

Clothes…talk about stressful. I want to have options but I also don’t want to carry too much. 

  • Jackets (2): Packable Down Jacket (LL Bean) , Packable Rain Jacket (North Face)

  • Mid-Layers (5): Full Zip Hoodie, Quarter Zip, Chambray, Flannel, and Long Cardigan

  • Pants/Leggings (4): Light Sweatpants (H&M), Black Camp Pants (LL Bean), 2 Pairs of Leggings - Long & Capri (Fabletics)

  • Shorts (4): Two everyday, two sport shorts

  • Casual Tops (9): Mix of Long Sleeve & Short Sleeve

  • T-Shirts (3): 2 T-Shirts (1 will be sleep), 1 Tank

  • Dresses (2)

  • Bathing Suits (2.5): 3 Tops, 2 Bottoms

  • Underwear (10), Bras (5), Socks (5)

  • Accessories: 1 Scarf, 2 Head Buffs

  • Shoes (4): Birkenstocks, Chacos, Merrell Shoes, Sorel Boots

Technology:

  • Laptop - MacBook Air 13 inch

  • Action Camera - Akaso V50 Pro

  • Phone - Unlocked, Apple X

  • Fitbit - Watch & Step Counter!

  • Chargers & Converters

Toiletries & Small First Aid/Health Kit

Miscellaneous

  • Platypus 1L Water Bottle, 2L Hydration Pack

  • Journal & Pens

  • Sleeping Bag

  • Microfiber Towel

  • Suitcase Locks

And that’s what I’ve got! We’ll see how everything holds up and what I need to buy along the way.

Katherine VanLent1 Comment