Here’s a website we used to do some of our planning, “Travel Independent”. They recommend packing as light as possible. Unfortunately, Rachel and I are going to be traveling through a lot of climates and given my size, it’s difficult to just pick up clothing as I go. Here are some of the items we are bringing along, most of them, very light. I’ll make some reviews as soon as we put them to the test.

Deuter Bags - These things have been incredible! Not one tear, rip, or hole. Not even a thread is out of place. Nine months of dusty roads, bus stations, rain, bungalows, and they still look new. Comfortable.

Samsung NC-10 - The NetBook market is getting really competitive but I couldn’t recommend this little machine highly enough. 6 hours battery life, 160gb, bright screen, powerful WiFi, nice keyboard, quick, and reliable. Great for entertainment. It made and maintains this website.

Chaco Sandals - These things are comfortable, they have thick soles, they stay on, but they’re expensive ($80). I used to recommend them to everyone I met but once we got to the Philippines, both my vibram soles completely fell off and I had to keep rubber cementing them back on. Now one of my straps has ripped 2/3 across and I’m worried it will soon break. I’ve heard that the Chaco Customer Service is great. I’ll write more once I’ve talked to them.

 

Washburn Rover (knock-off) - If you are a guitarist, or trying to learn, this is a valiant little instrument. I’ve let loads of other people play it and they are all impressed by it’s output and tone for what it is. A Martin Dealer said it’s better than their more expensive “Backpacker” model. I really love this thing.

Altec Portable Ipod Speakers - Hardcore backpackers scoff until they hear what these things can do. You can transform the vibe of the dingiest room with some classy tunes. Our speakers have made many a “movie night” possible because they can hook up to our computer. They also have a generous 9 hour battery life (4 AA) and can charge our ipods.