As with any trip, deciding what to take, and what not to take, is extremely important. Of course, many people always end up packing at the last minute and forgetting something important, or bringing useless (and heavy) items along with them, like an umbrella instead of a plastic poncho. To make sure this won’t happen to you, we have decided to compose an extensive check list of essential backpacking gear that no one should be without. Things like the caffeine soap, or the indestructible and foldable wine glass are undoubtedly useful travel companions, but in this edition we are only covering the basics, like shoes.

No matter where you are headed, be it the beaches of Bali or the fjords in Norway, you will need a sturdy and stable pair of shoes or trainers. This is especially true for backpackers who might walk for days with their heavy rucksacks trying to hitch a ride to the next village. Now for anyone who plans on scaling mountain tops or traversing jungles, hiking boots are a must. However, because real hiking boots are very bulky and heavy, we only recommend bringing along a pair if you are sure to use them. As a rule when it comes to backpacking, bulky and heavy is bad, while light and small is good. Sandals are always a great idea for warm climates and it is advisable to bring an extra pair of lightweight trainers just in case you should happen to lose a shoe.

Now we can get to the next most important piece of equipment, namely, clothes. How many clothes and what types of clothes you pack of course depend on both your tastes and the climate. But because we are assuming no one wishes to backpack around the Siberian wilderness or French Alps in the winter, we will mostly be covering the clothes needed for warmer environments. A waterproof poncho is essential for everywhere other than the Sahara, as it both keeps you dry and is incredibly easy to pack. Simplicity and frugality is the name of the game when it comes to packing clothes. Most backpackers should be able to get by with only 2-4 T-shirts and around 3 pairs of rugged pants. Make sure the pants are extra durable and rugged, and that the T-shirts can be washed easily. Jeans are a good pick because of the toughness, but they can get hot in more tropical climates. Double the amount of socks and underwear, around 4-6 sets are also recommended. Finally, no matter what climate you are in, at least one lightweight pullover is recommended for chilly evenings or airports.

We’re only just getting started as there are many more essential items to bring. Backpacking and camping go hand in hand, as we discuss in more detail in our look at backpacking tents. Therefore, a comfortable, warm and lightweight sleeping bag is absolutely a necessity, whether you are sleeping in your tent, the airport, or a dirty hostel bed. In addition to sunscreen, of which the fairer among us should bring a plentiful supply, some type of hat or scarf is a good idea for protection from the strong tropical sun. In truly tropical countries, mosquito repellent, a first aid kit, and iodine pills for sterilising water become a good idea. Bringing along a few water bottles is also perfect for those hot summer hikes. Some preferably lightweight towels and cooking accessories, like a bowl, and utensils, will no doubt come in handy as well. Last but not at all least, don’t forget to pack those hygienic articles and toiletries, like a toothbrush or deodorant, or you might really regret it.

Whilst some might see these as non-essentials, we believe that camping games are a must on any outdoor trip. Firstly because it relieves the bordom of waiting in airports or when you can’t sleep at night. But also because its a great way to make new friends by asking fellow backpackers to join in.

Now take a deep breath. We have just gotten through the bare essentials, but hopefully there is at least some more room in your rucksack. If not you will see why we stress travelling light, because there are still many, many more, travel accessories to take with you to make the most of your journey. Such as a camera, GPS locater, torch, tent, some good books, a money belt, spare batteries, charger adapter, music player, journal, bin bags and so on. But don’t feel overwhelmed as we will be covering this list in a separate article. In the meantime, review our packing suggestions and feel confident that at least this time you haven’t forgotten anything.