Traveler's Tips: Packing

Take a copy of your passport and spare passport-size pictures. You never know when you need them. To avoid getting them wet, copy or print them on plastic sheets.

Store valuable information, such as insurance papers and visas, using a fax- or e-mail-on-demand service. This way you can never use it and access it in case of emergency.

Remember not to take too many shoes (they use a lot of space in your backpack or suitcase)!

Take a change of underwear, a clean shirt, soap and a toothbrush in your hand luggage, in case your luggage ends up in limbo for a few days.

When backpacking, roll your clothes instead of folding them – it save space and causes less creases.

Zip-off trousers: two pants with the weight and space of one!

Realize that ‘ventilated’ footwear is inadequate for many outdoor activities. Imagine the dirt, bugs, and skin irritations and settle for sturdy boots instead. (Worn-in) army boots are relatively cheap and will do nicely.

Take items that can be discarded at the end of the trip, such as old t-shirts. They can make someone else happy and enable you to lighten your load along the way.

In humid areas, mind that your towels and laundry won’t dry quickly – and you don’t want to carry wet garments around! Sarongs or thin, big towels dry quickly and are livesavers as they can be used as clothing, to provide shade or as a blanket.

A pocket knife, (sealable) plastic bags and duct tape are things you can use for practically anything from water-proofing equipment to carrying (smelly) possessions around.

Take some sweets or snacks from your home country with you, especially when staying with local people. Or use them to bribe expatriates.

Never forget your smile and your ability to see things in perspective!