Category Archives: Gear

Maja’s Pack List

As a very frequent traveler (I used to fly at least once per week for the past two years) I have become a very efficient traveler and packer. I’ve learned what does, and doesn’t work for me. So when Patrick suggested we use backpacks for this trip instead of suitcases I politely declined. I hate backpacks.

Backpacks hurt my back. I hate how you have to take the whole thing off and awkwardly hold it or put it on the floor (ew) if you want to access anything. I hate the way they look, and the way they ruin one’s posture and silhouette. I hate how absentminded backpack people can be, accidentally smashing their packs into people as they walk down the airplane aisles. Also, backpackers have a reputation for being cheap and dirty, two words I wouldn’t use to describe myself.

So as I said, I politely declined.

Patrick said a backpack would be easier because:

– the 34-40L size he suggested was smaller than a carry-on suitcase, so we wouldn’t have any carry-on issues (or I could just get a smaller suitcase)

– backpacks would leave our hands free when traveling (what would we be doing while walking that would require two hands?)

– walking long distances on dirt/cobblestone streets with suitcases would be tough (ok, fair point)

– a small backpack would force us to travel light (I can travel light with a small suitcase too)

Not convinced, but very much in love with Patrick, I conceded and began backpack shopping.

Bags

Bags

1. Backpack $160 – After a ton of research I landed on the Osprey Farpoint 40. I was attracted to the internal organization layout, fairly simple exterior, and padded shoulder straps. That said, now that I’ve been traveling with it for over a month, I don’t love it. This thing has WAY more bells and whistles than I need. There are a ton of straps I never use, and hip belts that just get in the way (I’ve never used them). The internal structure of the pack is odd to me, I think it’s designed to be top-heavy? But this means there is space in the bottom of the pack that is designed to remain empty, which drives me nuts. I just want something simple and I feel like this bag is trying to do too much. Fed up, I ordered the pack Patrick brought, and had it shipped to Buenos Aires three weeks before we were scheduled to arrive. To this day it is still “being processed” by customs so that’s $300 I’ll probably never see again.

2. Packing Cubes $38 – Packing cubes are life. These babies are super thin, and have a secondary compression-zip system, turning my big stack of clothes into a small, rock-hard cube. They’re amazing. I got them in purple just to spice things up a bit.

3. First Aid Bag $9 – This small packing cube is the perfect size to store basic first aid essentials (bandaids, sterile alcohol pads, antibiotic ointment, gauze) and medications. I turn into a complete baby when I’m sick, and the thought of needing to navigate a foreign country + language barrier + unfamiliar ingredients to seek out medicine doesn’t sound fun. So I packed: Pepto-Bismol, Midol, Pearls probiotics, Sudafed, ZzzQuil, Tums, Benadryl, Refresh Plus eyedrops, Imodium, Advil liquid gels, Zyrtec, Xanax, Azithromycin (antibiotic), Ciprofloxacin (antibiotic), and Atovaquone (anti-malarial). I transferred everything from it’s original packaging into these tiny plastic bags which save a ton of space.

4. Toiletry Bag $25 – Same thin material as the packing cubes, same saucy purple color. Holds all of my non-liquid toiletries (the liquid ones go in a ziploc).

5. Purse $98 – Three years ago, when Patrick and I began talking about this RTW trip, I saw this bag on sale at Kate Spade and thought, “That would be perfect for our imaginary trip!”. Flash forward to present day and I’m ACTUALLY USING IT! Nylon, ultra-light, top-zip, interior pockets, this bag is amazing. Kate Spade doesn’t make it anymore because they’re idiots, but Jack Spade and Tory Burch both make something similar.

Clothes

Clothes

Clothes 2

I am not a travel-clothes person.

I just don’t see the allure in their boxy silhouettes, zip-off appendages, and putty-hued color schemes. Patrick was singing the praises of wool, the magical fabric that doesn’t wrinkle or stink, but I have avoided it due to it’s extreme itch-factor. Patrick introduced me to a new wool clothing company, boasting impossibly soft products, so I bought a t shirt without trying it on (idiot). Once I finally put it on at home, I had to immediately take a shower because my skin was still crawling even after I’d taken it off. So, instead of trying to change into a travel-clothes person, I just packed, like, normal people clothes.

1. Jacket $70 – This ultra light puffy jacket packs into a tiny stuff sack so I can shove into my bag and forget about it until it’s needed. While I would much prefer a less outdoorsy looking jacket, the packability makes it worth it. Originally purchased for Disneyland, because sometimes it can get chilly during World of Color.

2. Rain Jacket $70 – I’ve been hoarding this rain jacket since college and now it’s finally getting some use. I detest outdoor gear, but it’s definitely lighter, and takes up less space than an umbrella.

3. Black Sweater $10 – I plucked this winner off a Uniqlo sale rack a few years ago as a plane sweater for long international flights. It’s a ridiculously soft and warm modal/cotton/spandex blend. It’s not on their site anymore but I posted a similar sweater.

4. Grey Sweater $58 – I used to buy these sweaters in black in bulk. It was my go-to staple for work for years. Three quarter sleeve (I’m constantly pushing up my sleeves), cotton blend, machine washable, perfect. For this trip I bought one in grey (gasp!) because I thought “maybe vacation-Maja wears grey!”. I wish I brought black.

5. Black T Shirts $20 – I brought two of these shirts because I wear one almost every day. 100% cotton, super light, breathable and comfortable.

6. Burgundy T Shirt $9 – I threw in a colored shirt (I know, crazy) because I thought maybe I’ll want a little color? I only wear this when my black shirts are dirty.

7. Camisole $10 – This super-thin nylon/cupro camisole wears like a second skin. Perfect for under sweaters.

8. Long Camisole $8 – Long camisoles are a must for long flights. I freak out if my shirt rides up and my lower back touches the plane seat (EW EW EW), so this long cami comes down over my hips and keeps me covered.

9. Slip $28 – Simple slip, super thin and lightweight, takes up hardly any space.

 10. Black Day/Night Dress $237 – I’d been eyeing this Vince dress for a while and snagged it after it finally went on sale. It’s basically a sexy black bag with excellent tailoring. It transitions well from day to night and is oh so comfortable. It’s sold out everywhere but I linked to this season’s version.

11. Black Beach/Day Dress $118 – I love this dress because I can wear it as a swimsuit cover-up or as proper dress with a slip underneath. It’s discontinued, but I linked to a similar style.

12. Floral Dress $98 – This floral number by Maeve is great because it just slips on, no zippers or buttons. Unfortunately it’s discontinued as well, but basically any of Anthropologie’s day dresses will do the trick.

13. Bras $36 – I brought two of these basic t-shirt bras. Bonus: the straps convert into a racerback.

14. Undies $28 –  I packed 7 of these guys because they fold up into nothing so why not. They are super soft and machine washable.

15. Sports Bra $38 – Holds ’em in place. Enough said.

16. Socks $12 – Basic, white short socks. Easy to toss and replace when I feel like some freshies.

17. Jogging Pants $25 – I love these simple stretchy capris. Great for workouts, lounging, and long plane rides. Plus they’re thick enough to avoid the Lulu-see-through issue.

18. Exercise Top $10 – Simple, lightweight, does the job, and cheap enough to throw away when it gets too grungy.

19. Swimsuit $130 – I bought this suit years ago in black and it still looks good as new. Simple, flattering, and comfortable.

20. Swimsuit cover $13 – I like to have something to throw on over my suit to get me to/from the beach/pool so I’m not like “HERE’S MY BUTT!” to everyone I pass. Super light material, folds up into nothing.

21. Shorts $20 – I normally hate shorts but these light linen ones are pretty lovely for when it’s just too hot for pants.

22. Jeans $48 – I wear these almost every day when the weather allows. Soft, comfortable, casual denim.

23. Nightie $115 – I need something between my skin and Airbnb sheets or else I’ll be up all night thinking about when’s the last time they were washed.

24. Scarf $59 – Super soft cashmere/silk blend. Keeps me cozy during chilly flights, and can be used as an evening wrap, or headscarf, if necessary.

25. Runners $49 Lightweight, supportive, comfortable.

26. Sneakers $70 – These are the absolute best sneakers. I can wear them all day, every day, and they are always comfortable. I’d been wearing classic Chucks for 20 years before the Chuck II’s came out, and Nike’s updates are LIFE CHANGING. The Lunarlon footbed feels like walking on pillows. They’re getting kinda dirty (white shoe problems) so I’ll switch them out with the fresh pair waiting for me in SF when I’m there in July.

27. Sandals $60 – Simple, cheap, slip-on sandal. Hoping to swap these out for something more fabulous in Europe.

28. Espadrilles $25 – Amazingly cheap and comfortable espadrilles from Target. The floral pattern is no longer available, but they have other cute versions. Completely unnecessary and a total waste of space but I love them.

29. Shower Flops $3 – An absolute MUST for gross hostel showers.

Junk (aka Gear)

Junk

1. MacBook $1600 – Only weighs 2 lbs, bright, quiet, long battery life, and it’s GOLD. Patrick and I are booking our trip as we go so a computer is a must. Ever try navigating a budget airline website on an iPhone? No thanks!

2. iPhone 6+ $750 – Great camera, all-day battery life, enormous screen, doubles as a cheese plate.

3. iPhone Case $36 – In addition to being pretty, this Rifle Paper Co. case has a rubber insert and a hard outer shell which provides protection without too much bulk. A shattered screen would be a major bummer because unlike America, the rest of the world doesn’t have Apple stores on every block.

4. Leica Q $4400 – The most incredible camera I’ve ever used. I feel like I shouldn’t be allowed to have it, it’s so beautiful. Shooting with this thing makes me so, so happy.

5. Camera Bag $20 – Totally ugly but it’s small and does the job. I carry it inside my purse (don’t want to draw attention to the fact I’m carrying a camera) so I didn’t want it to take up too much space.

6. Headphones $300 – Great for long plane rides. Noise canceling, and teeny-tiny for packability.

7. Earbuds $30 – Good for the gym so I don’t get my Bose all sweaty.

8. Plug Adapter $7 – Covers all the countries we’re going to, and all the plugs snap into each other so it’s super compact.

9. Notebook $20 – Lightweight Japanese notebook with water-resistant cover. Absolutely necessary for the dozens of lists I’m constantly scribbling down all day.

10. Passport $110 – Slightly worried I’m going to run out of pages and am going to have to deal with the circus of renewing internationally. I’ll just continue to ignore it until it becomes an issue!

11. Card Case $6 – This little card case from Poppin in the best. It comes in 10 colors, is super slim, and has a freakin magnet so it stays closed. Holds my ID, Visa, MC, AmEx, and debit card.

12. Planner $7 – Easy way for me to keep a visual record of what we’ve done. Totally unnecessary but it’s fun.

13. Pens $12 – I know it’s insane to carry six pens everywhere but I love them.

 14. Purell $2 – After a cab, on the plane, after any public restroom, before every meal, after touching a door, basically I’m using this stuff all day.

15. Mints $2 – I have jaw problems due to work stress (lol) so mints are easier for me than gum. That sentence made me sound 100 years old.

16. Sunglasses $116 – Ray-Bans just seemed so romantic and classic. These High Street versions provide a little more coverage than the traditional Wayfarer.

17. Water Bottle $8 – I have mixed emotions about this water bottle. When we’ve needed it, we’ve NEEDED it. For example, in Curaçao we got to our hostel super late at night, the water is not safe to drink, there weren’t any stores open, so we needed something to sanitize tap water in. In that instance, I’m SO glad I had it. But most of the time, it just takes up space. Maybe I’ll make Patrick carry it.

18. Ear Plugs $6 – I packed 14 pairs because this brand is the best and I hate shitty ear plugs and I’m crazy.

19. Neck Pillow $7 – I am a serious bobble-necker so I need this thing to sleep on planes. It’s inflatable, so it folds down into nothing. I’m not picky about eye masks, so I just use the freebies provided by the airline.

20. Blanket $38 – This thing folds out to be 55″x70″, packs up into the size of a croissant, and is surprisingly warm for how thin it is. I hate the texture of airplane blankets, so I prefer to use this one. 

Beauty

Beauty

1. Toothbrush $Free – Whatever free toothbrush I got from my dentist and an adorable toothbrush cover that reminds me of Toothfairy tooth boxes.

2. Razor $10 – Packed one razor and three replacement blades. When I run out of replacements I’ll just buy a groovy foreign razor.

3. Toothpaste $4 – I’m very specific (crazy) about toothpaste, so I packed three travel tubes (I know, crazy) but was totally jazzed to see it stocked in almost every drugstore we’ve been in so far.

4. Leave-In Conditioner $10 – I’m just about to run out of this and I’m panicking. Fingers crossed I can find something equivalent soon.

5. Facial Spray $7 – A completely unnecessary pure luxury. I love this stuff. I use it right when I get out of the shower, on airplanes, in the evening before dinner; anytime my face is feeling a little dry/tired.

6. Sunscreen $9 – This is the best sunscreen. I’m pale AF and this stuff works. AND, the standard size is airplane friendly.

7. Facial Cleanser $8 – I had a bunch of these squirreled away from Clinique Bonus Gifts, so I packed two. Once they run out I’ll just pick up whatever wherever.

8. Face Cream $28 – I just recently became acquainted with Honest Beauty and I love their products. This stuff is a really good super sheer moisturizer + SPF 30. It separates like crazy so you gotta shake the hell out of it before you apply, but it’s worth it.

9. Deodorant $4 – No one likes a stinker.

10. Makeup Remover $8 – I’ve been using this Clinique formula for 15 years and it’s my absolute favorite. It’s super gentle and works super well.

11. Olaplex $23 – Great weekly hair masque to add some protein back into my lightened locks.

12. Hand Cream $15 – My hands can get kinda dry on long flights, and this cream makes them feel like buttah. Plus, no oily residue so you don’t get gross smudges all over your iPhone.

13. Insect Repellent $9 – OMG bugs LOVE me. Our second day in St. Maarten I got SIXTEEN mosquito bites because I forgot to reapply this stuff at night. Meanwhile, Patrick forgot as well and got zero bites.

14. Floss Picks $4 – I’m terrified of having dental issues abroad so for the first time in my life I’m actually flossing regularly. These little guys make it fun and easy.

15. Pressed Powder $27 – I’ve been using this kind of pressed powder since my sophomore year of high school. No matter how many new brands I try I always come back to it. The formula is light and the coverage is incredible. It’s like an eraser for your skin.

16. Mascara $32 -Lengthens, thickens, curls, and separates without clumping or flaking. I brought two so I’d have my next one ready to go (remember to toss your mascara every 3 months!) forgetting you can buy Chanel cosmetics in almost every duty-free shop.

17. Blush $28 – I think Bobbi Brown makes the best blushes. This one (Slopes) is the perfect natural flush shade for light skin.

18. Eyebrow Pencil $21 – I have completely garbage eyebrows so I have to pencil them on every morning. I packed five of these pencils because running out is simply not an option.

19. Tweezers $15 – To shape my garbage eyebrows.

20. Blush Brush $14 – Self explanatory.

21. Lipstick $38 – When I’m feeling like a ragamuffin I can just swipe on some lipstick and then suddenly I’m a Bond girl. The Chantecaille Lip Sheer formula is incredible, and Flare is the perfect shade of red.

22. Lip Balm $9 – Last December I was in Seattle for the holidays and I forgot my lip balm so I popped into the nearest shop (Kiehl’s) and was horrified when they told me the price. $9 for LIP BALM?! What is it made out of, MOON ROCKS? Anyway, of course it’s incredible and now I’m totally addicted.

23. Eyelash Curler $16 – Best eyelash curler. Period.

24. Cologne $Free – I love Jo Malone’s colognes (I don’t wear anything else). They’re beautiful individually or really fun to layer. You can go to any Jo Malone counter and ask for samples (they’ll usually give you a handful) so I just packed five little vials and they should last me until July when I can stock up.

25. Q-Tips $2 – To correct all my makeup mistakes.

26. Hairbrush $17 – I LOVE this tiny hairbrush. It weighs nothing, gets all my knots out, and is easy to clean.

27. Bobby Pins $5 – To keep my hair out of my face.

28. Curling Iron $10 – I know you’re probably like, “SHE PACKED A GD CURLING IRON IS SHE CRAZY” but sometimes I just want to feel pretty.

Things I buy along the way because you can find them anywhere: shampoo, conditioner, soap, and tampons

Things I originally brought and have tossed/shipped home:

  • hairspray (yeah, right)
  • hairdryer (everywhere we’ve stayed has had one I can use)
  • passport holder (while oh so classy, every immigration agent has made me take my passport out of the holder so it felt like a hassle)
  • a dress (three is enough)
  • a fancy top (if I’m dressing up I’ll just wear a dress)
  • watercolors (that was aspirational)
  • another iPhone case (totally unnecessary)
  • body lotion (use sunscreen instead)
  • travel towel (everywhere we’ve stayed has had towels)
  • leather pencil case (dead weight)

Are you still reading this? You’re incredible. If you have any questions or suggestions, please comment below!

Patrick’s Pack List

 

When planning for this trip, I really enjoyed reading posts about what things people doing RTW trips decided to bring with them, so I wanted to share my own list for those interested as well.

My selections are based mostly around the following:

  • Most-weather appropriate. Although we’re planning on visiting mostly warm climates, being comfortable in 50F/10C weather is important.
  • Fits in a carry-on. We want to minimize our time in airports and the likelihood of lost luggage.
  • Multi-day wear for most clothes. We won’t always have easy access to washer/dryers, and doing laundry in the sink is a pain (though we’ll still do it). For this reason I’ve preferred things that are quick-drying and reusable without washing.
  • Good looking and not overtly outdoors-y or sporty. I like minimal, unbranded stuff a lot.

The best advice I read in preparation was “You’ll bring as much stuff as your pack will allow” and with that in mind I specifically chose a bag on the smaller side of things (34L). I haven’t yet regretted it.

The links are mostly referral links, since I’m currently unemployed. Thanks for your support.

Packing

 

GoRuck GR2 (34L)

My only real bag. I love this bag. Everything mentioned below fits in this bag, all at once (except for the stuff I wear, like the Cons), which is kind of insane. This bag, while on the “heavier” side of travel bags, has an extremely minimal exterior (no dangling straps, yay!) and a very feature-packed interior. It has no waist straps, which initially turned me off, but I realized because of the small size and weight (~10kg fully loaded) it doesn’t matter too much. It’s smaller than the carry-on limit for basically all airlines and I’ve had no problem fitting it anywhere. There’s a 40L version, which has the same width and length, but is a little taller, if that’s your thing. The thing I like most about it is the internal top pockets, which make grabbing small items (cables, headphones, etc) super easy, even blind.

 

GoRuck Padded Field Pocket (GR1 Size)

I use this for all my toiletries. Like the GR2 bag, it is indestructible. It has nice little pockets on the inside to keep my stuff in place when I open it, and it’s long enough to hold a toothbrush.

 

Eagle Creek Packing Cubes

I really only use the biggest one for all my clothes. It fits perfectly in the base of my bag, and I like that it has double zippers – it makes it easier to close when tightly packed.

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Herschel Packable Backpack

I use this as my day bag when I need to carry more that just a sweater or jacket. Like everything else, it’s super light and packs into almost nothing. Looks cool (read: non-touristy) too. I use this way more than I initially thought I would – great value given the price!

Basics

 

ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs

These are the best. They’re comfortable, dry quickly, and don’t smell for days. Although the logo decal peels off pretty quickly, they have been holding up as well as I heard and hoped they would.

 

Uniqlo Airism Crew Neck T-Shirt

I should have brought more (than one) of these. They’re ultra comfortable, super light, and quick drying. Which is good because they do get smelly kinda quickly and require frequent washing. That said, it’s a really great base layer under wool shirts that would otherwise be a bit too itchy. One note: They’re very thin, so don’t plan on wearing them solo, unless you’re okay with the visible-nips look.

 

Mission Workshop Sector Wool T-Shirt

Good Basic. Doesn’t get smelly, strong, dries fast, looks good, not overly sporty or brand-heavy, and about $20 cheaper than other wool t-shirts. I like the cut a little more than the Outlier shirt – I wear a large and it’s quite trim. A little on the itchy side but not annoying.

 

Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt

On the more expensive side ($98!) but totally amazing. Much softer than other wool t-shirts, enough to wear without anything underneath, thick enough to be warm but still breathable and easy. I don’t love their thick crew-neck design but it’s not a deal breaker. Sadly mine got a small hole in the side shortly after receiving it, but hopefully it stays small.

 

Darn Tough Vermont Standard Issue (Mid-Calf / Light Cushion) Wool Socks

I came out with these and some Smartwool socks. Although pretty similar, I prefer the Darn Toughs. They still feel brand new and I’ve been wearing them for almost a month and have washed them at least 5 times. Wool socks are significantly better than cotton socks, I’m not sure why I haven’t always just worn these.

Jackets

 

Marmot Precip Rain Jacket

Love this jacket. It packs into its own pocket and is very lightweight. I got it in bright pylon orange because – hey – why not be as visible as possible in the rain. Marmot has another rain jacket that’s even lighter (Essance, I believe), but it was a little steep at $350. Since it’s totally windproof, I’ve ended up wearing this jacket a lot more than I thought I would, and it’s been totally worthwhile.

 

Marmot Quasar Hooded Down Jacket

This is my “warmth” jacket. It also packs into its own pocket and is ultra light. I can wear it on its own or under the rain jacket for extra warmth. I love it for the breast pocket which is super useful for receipts, cash, or a quick spot to hold my phone. (It’s big enough it hold a 6 Plus!) My only complaint is that some of the down has been leaking out already and it’s only 2 months old. Hopefully that curtails itself.

You’ll notice both jackets are from Marmot. I tend to really like their stuff – it’s a bit more expensive than Northface or other outdoor brands but the fits are nice (they tend to be a little longer which is great for tall guys like me) and the designs are a little sharper.

Other Clothes and Accessories

  

Gym Clothes

I wanted to be able to workout and run while traveling so I’ve brought along a set of Nike Dri-Fit socks, shirt, and shorts. I haven’t been running or working out as much as I had hoped (story of my life) but it’s still been very useful to have a complete extra set of clothes just in case, like when I want to wash all my other clothes.

 

Outlier New Way Longs

I bought these as as soon as they came out to replace my Levi’s Commuter shorts that I started out with. The Levi’s were good but were a little heavy weight for travel and took forever to dry. These double as swim trunks and include an internal drawstring which is rad. A little stretchy too, so very comfortable.

 

Wool & Prince Button-Down Shirt

I thought it was important to bring at least 1 dress shirt for nice dinners, consulate interviews and the like. I choose the Wool & Prince one after seeing it on Tynan’s list and I haven’t been disappointed. It’s obviously wool, like everything else, so it doesn’t crease too much. I went with the dark grey and love the fit.

 

Naked and Famous Skinny Guy Stretch Selvedge Jeans

Every day wear. They held up well for the first month but the thing about jeans is that they take forever to dry. That said, they are durable as hell and comfortable enough to wear every day. I like Naked and Famous because a) they’re selvedge demin tends to be cheaper than a lot of the super expensive Japanese stuff, and b) they’re made in Canada. Mine were starting to fall apart a bit (a few loose threads in the leg hole and on the leather patch) but Maja patched them up for me ’cause she’s the best.

 

Outlier Slim Dungarees

Unfortunately, I made the mistake of buying these too late to exchange (they didn’t have any longs in stock for the longest time) and they turned out to be a bit too small. I’ve brought them with me anyways, both because they are small and light enough, and because as planned, I’ve been losing weight on the trip, and will likely fit into them more comfortably very soon. Hopefully around the same time as I blow out my Naked and Famous jeans, and I can swap one for the other.

Patagonia Long Sleeve T-Shirt

While a little sporty for me, a long sleeve t-shirt is super helpful to have for layering when it’s a bit cold but not cold enough for the down jacket. This one was relatively cheap and is holding up well.

 

Surgical Rubber Clothesline

This came from the Wirecutter’s recommended travel items list and I’m super glad I brought it. I wash clothes a lot (at least once a week) and having something to hang them on instead of just chairs or tables is extremely useful.

Shoes

Converse Chuck Taylor II

Best shoes. Super comfortable, stylish enough to fit in everywhere, durable, inexpensive. I hope to wear one pair the whole trip, but we’ll see how far I can take them.

Nike Free Flyknit 4.0

Great travel running shoes because they’re super lightweight and have very little upper structure. The Flyknit fabric upper can be flattened almost completely so they pack into my bag very neatly, and then I can still have running shoes! The stretchy upper also means that I can slip them on and off quickly if I just need to run out of the house on a quick errand or something.

 

Tom’s Sandals

These are great because they’re a little thicker and more durable than regular flip flops, and they come in real sizes, not just S/M/L. Comfy strap too.

Tech

MacBook (2015) (Not pictured)

This isn’t really mine – it’s Maja’s. But I do have the pleasure of carrying it for her and getting to use it quite often. We share it, and that’s worked out pretty well, partially because I’ve also brought…

iPad Mini (2015) + Smart Cover

This doesn’t need too much explanation – it’s great to have an extra ultra light and small computer to browse/email/write/etc while the real laptop is in use. It’s also nice to watch Netflix/Twitch. The smart cover is absolutely necessary for this.

 

Anker PowerCore 15200

This power pack is a little heavy but has capacity for 4 full iPhone charges, which is pretty amazing. (Or 1 iPad and 2 iPhones, etc.) It also has 2 USB ports which is handy when traveling with a partner. It’s a little overkill though – Next time I have the chance I’ll probably pick up something smaller, probably the the PowerCore 10000.

Anker Lightning Cables (6ft and 1ft)

MFi certified and way hardier than Apple’s (somewhat fragile) cables, having one long and one short is the way to go. Every time I see someone hunched over so that they can use their phone while it’s tethered to an outlet I cry a little inside – it doesn’t have to be that way!

 

B&O H3 In-Ear Headphones and Comply TSX-200 Earphone Tips

These are great for airplane travel. Good sound, and the plugs block out cabin noise super well. I don’t generally like in-ear headphones (I hate sticking stuff in my ears, and the foam tips can get gross after many uses), but I got these because they are so tiny and easy to carry. That said…

 

Sony H.ear On Headphones

I bought these in Buenos Aires because I was tired of having to put in earplugs every time I wanted to listen to music. They’re super comfortable and sound totally great. Probably the most comfortable headphones I’ve ever worn. I plan to keep the B&O plugs for plane rides though. It’ll be sort of ridiculous that I travel with 2 sets of headphones, but oh well. I don’t love the flat cable these come with, but luckily it seems to be replaceable, and I’ll swap it out with something I like more in the near future.

 

iPhone 6S Plus and Incipio Feather iPhone 6S Plus Case

The iPhone 6S Plus has the best camera, so it’s the one I’ve brought with me.

I usually can’t do iPhone cases for more than a month, but so far this Incipio one is sticking pretty well. It’s thin enough to not be distracting and gives my iPhone some much needed grip and protection. It’s also super cheap, and way more durable than the Apple iPhone cases, which generally fall apart after a month.


That’s it! Believe it or not all that stuff fits in my bag and it’s just around 10kg, plus the clothes I happen to wear to the airport (Usually the jeans, since they are the heaviest).

I plan to keep this post updated as I add or remove things from my pack, but hopefully that won’t happen to often. Changes will be noted below this line.