Backpack Mack

What do you bring on a trip that crosses three continents and a dozen microclimates? Add in the limitation of space and flexibility (a backpack) and its a real challenge! Decisions were certainly made for function over fashion. 

In preparing for my trip I had a couple key objectives in mind, the weather, the activities, the culture/customs, compactability and versatility. 

First, I researched the weather for each location I would be visiting and also brainstormed every possible activity I might be doing there – hiking, swimming, long city walks, etc… I concluded that I would need warm weather clothing for both humid and more arid environments, I would need activewear for hikes and regular exercise, and I would need cold weather clothes for Peru and Bolivia where the temperatures could drop into the twenties at night. 

In addition to pure function I also had to keep in mind the traditions of the countries I was visiting. Most latin countries but especially Guatemala are religious and somewhat conservative. Having visited before I knew I wouldn’t necessarily have a problem with tank tops or short shorts but I could get unwanted attention or be prevented from entering sites like the cathedrals. 

Next I had to think about packability. Things like cotton or activewear shorts pack down significantly smaller than denim. Shoes are one of the bulkiest items to bring along in a backpack, so I would need to limit to what is necessary. I also evaluated my layering options for warmth and selected things like  a lightweight cotton sweater from vuori instead of a sweatshirt and a collapsable down jacket rather than a large top layer. 

Lastly, versatility was an important factor. If I am going to be rewearing outfits I wanted to make sure I could mix and match. I selected a color pallet that allowed for maximum combinations but also stuck with neutral items that wouldn’t be too loud or clash. I selected blue, green, black, white and grey. If it didn’t fit, it didn’t come! 

I ended with the following: 

• 5 tshirts (one specifically designed for activewear)
• 1 long sleeve sun shirt 
• 1 sweater top 
• 1 lightweight sweatshirt that could be dressed up
• 4 pairs of shorts 
• 3 pairs of pants (including hiking pants)
• 1 workout outfit
• 1 dress 
• 1 jacket
• 1 rain coat
• 1 swimsuit
• Hiking boots
• Tevas
• Running shoes
• Pack towel
• Necessities like a hat, toiletries, contact lenses (the most egregious use of space taken by the daily lenses) mosquito repellent, etc…

Lastly and most importantly I did leave a little room at the top of my bag for additional souvenirs or maybe a new outfit if I get really sick of what I packed! I’ll report back on how this worked out for my but this method has worked on prior albeit shorter trips. 

Time to head out! I’m full of nerves and excitement and that nagging feeling that I’m forgetting something!