What to bring and not to bring... that is the question?
What are somethings that you took on you first travel that you wish you never brought cause you never used it?
What is something that you always bring that is very useful that most peole don't think about?
Reply to this As it says in my Profile "Every pleasure has a price! I HATE PACKING". When they searched my gear at Panama City local airport all the other passengers looked on in awe.It was like 1 of those film clips where all the clowns keep getting out of 1 car.There was stuff in there I'd forgoten I owned.I move around so much I need clothes for all weather.I just shove everything in and there's always room for 1 more piece.
Reply to this A sleeping bag can often be the thing that I dont use when I take it with me. It is also the thing I often wish I had brought with me, when I didnt. I wished I had it on my recent trip to Brazil and Uruguay. The weather was quite warm, but the airconditioned night busses werent.
Mel
Reply to this I don't know what they all them in the USA but one of the most useful articles I have found is face wipes. When you have been on a bus/train/plane for a few hours and you feel grimey and sweaty, a cool, damp, perfumed (with natural oils, of course) cloth to wipe your face and hands is wonderful. They are easy to make yourself.
You can also give some to other travellers and make new friends 😊.
Another thing I have found useful is to make a pile of all the things you think you will need to take. Put your backpack beside it. If the pile is smaller than the backpack, you're halfway there. If it is not, keep discarding things until it is. If you have more than two of something, discard items until you only have two (underpants and bras may be an exception to this rule). When the pile fits your backpack, pack it and go for a three hour walk in the sun/rain/wind with it - include a few steep hills and some steps and lift it over a few barriers. If you are comfortable at the end, you're ready to go. Otherwise, empty the pack and discard items until you are comfortable.
John
Addit: My wife says disposible panty-liners are a boon. I'm not in a position to comment but maybe another female traveller has an opinion.
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