Reviewing my packing

I initially got by with one small carry-on suitcase and a backpack that was about half full.

Now writing it out, I think I overpacked a bit! These are all the items I brought:

  • First aid kit
  • Protein bars
  • Deodorant
  • Sunblock
  • Grooming supplies
  • Soaps (body, face, hair) + loofah
  • Invisalign + cleaning tablets
  • Sleep mask
  • Laptop
  • SSD full of movies
  • Airpods (better audio) + Pixel buds (better for sleeping)
  • Smartwatch
  • Power bank (10k mAh)
  • 2 charging bricks - 1 US plug and 1 converter
  • 4-5 USB C-C cables + device-specific cables
  • AirTags on all bags
  • Rain poncho
  • Water bottle
  • Clothes (~8-9 weather-specific sets in packing cubes)
  • 2 wallets (magsafe for cards and I.D., pocket for passport copy + cash)
  • Ziplock bags
  • Pens
  • Passport
  • $100 USD (in phone case)
  • Gum
  • Hand wipes
  • Drawstring backpacks (good for laundry & shopping)
  • Day bag (holds wipes, contact lens tools, glasses, drawstring backpack, power bank)
  • Sweater (left in phillipines)
  • Raincoat (left in phillipines)

packing

Notes

  • Contact lens solution: Bring a large bottle, the small one wasn’t enough & I had to buy more
  • A notepad: - it’s really nice to write out itenerary
  • More ziplock bags: they’re just useful for holding random stuff
  • Don’t overpack toiletries, they’re cheap and widely available + also you can take them from hotels
  • Don’t bring a water bottle. Water bottles are pretty cheap (₫10k / 50¢), and I didn’t really use it much
  • Don’t leave your stuff with your friend in the phillipines, it’s kinda hard to use it when you’re in a different country.