Packing for this trip will be a challenge. I'm trying to put things together which will ensure looking nice in front of the Eiffel Tower and still be practical by the time we hit Nepal. We will also experience different temperatures along the way - I will probably send my long johns and sweater home- or give them away- before Egypt! But maybe the Himalaya will be cold and I will need them....agh...Steve says its not about fashion- strictly function. We clearly aren't on the same page. I wish we could hire a sherpa for the whole trip...Here is a rough copy of our gear list...we are following the 'one man one kit' rule ;)
I don't know what we were thinking! We already planned to bring WAY TOO MUCH!!! Everything we bring is stuff we are willing to leave somewhere, give away, or have stolen :). I have found 'Rick Steve's Packing List" and agree with most of what is on that...so here is our revised list!
Shirts. Bring up to five short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirts in a cotton/polyester blend.
Sweater or Lightweight Fleece. Warm and dark is best — for layering and dressing up. Dark colors don't show wrinkles or stains.
Pants. Bring two pairs: one lightweight cotton and another super-lightweight for hot and muggy big cities and churches with modest dress codes.
Shorts. Take a pair with pockets — doubles as a swimsuit for men.
Dress - for BJ :)
Swimsuit.
Underwear and socks. Bring five sets (lighter dries quicker).
Long underwear (merino wool)-doubles as pj's.
One pair of shoes. Take a well-used, light, and cool pair, with Vibram-type soles and good traction.
Sandals- for the shower too!
Jacket. Bring a light and water-resistant windbreaker that has a hood. Gore-Tex is good if you expect rain.
Tie or scarf. For instant respectability, bring anything lightweight that can break the monotony and make you look snazzy.
Money belt. It's essential for the peace of mind it brings. You could lose everything except your money belt, and the trip could still go on. Lightweight and low-profile beige is best.
Money. Bring your preferred mix of a credit card, debit card, an emergency stash of hard cash, and a couple of personal checks.
Documents and photocopies. Passport, airline ticket, driver's license, hostel card, and so on.
Small daypack.
Camera
First-aid kit.
Medicine and vitamins
Extra eyeglasses, contact lenses, and prescriptions.
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Toiletries kit.
Sealable plastic baggies.
Soap- on a rope? :)
Clothesline.
Small towel.
Travel information. Rip out appropriate chapters from guidebooks and staple them together.
Computer!!
