2 month packing guide to South East Asia

Well hello to you my reader chums! If you're a regular reader then you'd know between February and April I jetted off to South East Asia for two months. It was the most incredible experience I've done to date and I loved every single second of it.

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2 month packing guide to South East Asia

At first, I was worried I wouldn't be able to fit everything in my backpack or carry it, however, through the packing process and travelling, I learned quite a few things about what I needed and what I didn't. If you love your clothes like me and wanted to pack your entire wardrobe, a little tip would be, don't! Here's my packing guide to South East Asia.

What to bring

Clothes

When it comes to clothes, less really is more. As you backpack through South East Asia, you'll find as it's so hot, you won't want to be lugging a heavy bag, nor will you need half the clothes in there. I packed way too many tops and trousers on my trip as I wanted loads of different outfits to wear, but it just took up room in my bag and made it a lot heavier. Here's a rundown of what to bring:

  • 3 T-shirts
  • 3 Tank/vest tops
  • 2 Pairs of shorts
  • 1-2 Pairs loose trousers (you can buy more at any market).
  • A couple of dresses/skirts for days when you want to dress up a bit.
  • 1 Light cardigan
  • 1 Light jumper
  • 1 Fold up raincoat (you never know).
  • 2-3 Bikinis 
  • Light fabric scarf (to cover up in temples).
  • Underwear and socks - I'd bring a few weeks worth so you can get the grips with a place before you do laundry.
  • 1 Pyjamas
  • 1 Sunglasses
  • 1 Sunhat

Shoes 

With shoes, it all depends on what you're going to be doing on your trip, whether that's a lot of walking or island hopping. I'd suggest bringing the following:

  • 1 Pair of trainers/walking shoes
  • 1 Pair of flat shoes such as sandals
  • 1 Pair of flip flops for beaches or hostel use

Toiletries 

Toiletries are something we all panic about when packing and always bring more than we need, however, it's not necessary. The only thing I would advise you really should pack lots of is suncream as it's so expensive to buy in Asia! Here's everything you'll need:

  • A couple of bottles of suncream and aftersun.
  • Shampoo and conditioner bars - they weigh hardly nothing and last forever.
  • Shower gel with a luffa sponge to make it last longer.
  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Makeup - I would suggest bringing minimal makeup as you really won't wear much in the hot weather. Most days, I put on BB cream, a bit of bronzer, my brows, and mascara.
  • Makeup wipes or a Magnitone wipeout cloth - which is a very handy investment and super eco-friendly item too.
  • Moisturiser - the sun will really dry out your skin.
  • SPF lip balm - you need to protect your lips too.
  • Roll on deodorant - lasts longer than spray on.
  • Twist & Spritz Atomiser or roller ball perfumes.
  • Tangle Teezer
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes - you'll need these for public toilets.
  • Contact lenses and solution.

Electricals 

We can't go anywhere without electricals as we're all phone-obsessed, and here is everything you should bring:

  • Plug adapter
  • Extension lead - to save bringing extra plug adapters.
  • Portable phone charger
  • Spare USB cable
  • Headphones

Handy items

Before I went travelling, there were a few items I purchased that were literally a godsend:

  • Chillys Bottle - a literal lifesaver at keeping water cold in 40-degree heat.
  • Packing cubes - a complete essential that makes packing a million times easier. Don't go backpacking without them!
  • Razors 
  • Brow shaper tool - to keep your brows in shape.
  • Microfibre travel towel - easily compactable and handy for beaches/hostels.
  • Notebook - to note down the travels.
  • Padlocks - to keep your belongings safe.
  • Tote bags - versatile and perfect for the beach, shopping or an everyday bag.
  • Insect repellent wrist bands - stock up on these.
Essentials

Other than clothes, electricals, and toiletries, there are a few essential items you want to make sure you bring:
  • Passport
  • Cash for all different currencies
  • Visas for the different countries
  • Boarding passes
  • ID
  • Itinerary
  • Travel insurance
  • Small backpack

Ultimately, when it comes to packing your backpack, only bring the essentials and a few luxuries here and there. You can always buy things like extra clothes and toiletries whilst you're travelling that there's no point in filling your backpack to the max. You'll also want room for any souvenirs you buy along the way on your trip.

I hope you enjoyed this 2-month packing guide. When are you going to Asia next?

Thank you for reading <3


1 comment

  1. Thanks for sharing your packing list, lots of helpful things to take :)

    Nic | Nic's Adventures & Bakes

    ReplyDelete

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