Backpacking is fast becoming the way to travel in the 21st century. With round-the-world ticket operators offering package travel deals and technology now at a stage where communication can be made anytime, anywhere, living out of a bag of x amount of months combines flexibility, value and convenience.

Below is a rough guide for things to bring and things to leave at home. Backpacking is only easy and convenient if you pack the right amount of the right stuff. There is simply no need for the kitchen sink; you’ll find one of those in the hostels!

It’s is important to remember you’ll be carrying your backpack around with you for a long periods of time. Some individual journeys will be long, hot and tiring. It’s no surprise then however that my first tip is to pack at light as possible. Anything you are unsure about, leave at home. There will be ample amount of opportunities to buy things locally, usually at cheaper prices.

Cutting clothes down to the bare minimum can’t be stressed enough, and you will need to get used to the wearing the same clothes for long periods. This doesn’t mean you aren’t going to get the chance to wash them though! 99% of hostels have a laundry service, and in large parts of Southeast Asia, the service is fantastic.

It is advisable to take:

• 2/3 T-shirts. Pack fast drying t shirts for a quick laundry turnaround, and remember to pack a long sleeve shirt if travelling to places with a lot of mosquitos.

• 2 pairs of trousers, preferably cargo style and styles with rip away knees so they can be easily turned into shorts. Woman may want to swaps a pair of trousers for a skirt and it is wise not to pack your favourite pair of designer jeans!

• A lightweight fleece is often the forgotten garment, but its usefulness should not be underestimated. Even it warmer climates, it can get a little chilly in the evenings, and a lightweight fleece just does trick

• Underwear. Dark colours are the shade of choice for backpackers and it is worth remembering white doesn’t stay white for long when you are on the road.

• You choice of footwear is an incredibly important decision, considering the amount of walking you will be doing. If you are unsure which pair to fork out for, have a look at the Merrell shoes collection. Merrell offer a fine selection of casual, travel, walking and hiking shoes and even some sandals too for those lazy days on the beach.

Making the right decisions now when packing means you will be set up for your whole trip, and will not have the burden of carrying something you don’t want round with you for the duration. Happy Travelling!