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Best Backpacks for Traveling Asia

We’ve Found The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling Around Asia!

Matt Francis

  • September 27, 2023

On the hunt for the best backpacks for traveling around Asia? Lucky you! Asia is one of the most fascinating continents on the planet.

My name is Matt, and I have been traveling the world since 1999. I have been through many backpacks over the years and love to pass on my knowledge to the next generation of globetrotters.

At Everyday Ape, we’ve researched and handpicked the best backpacks that offer durability, comfort, and intelligent organization. We’ve selected the very best backpacks, from the carry-on size Osprey Farpoint to the larger Osprey Atmos AG50.

Say goodbye to bulky luggage and hello to freedom with the perfect backpack by your side.

Best Backpacks for Traveling Around Asia - Man on a mountain

Key Takeaways

  • Osprey Farpoint & Fairview, Nomatic 40L, Cotopaxi Allpa 42L, and Osprey Porter are the best travel backpacks for traveling Asia.
  • We’ve grouped our favorite backpacks by size. The first list looks at carry-on compliant models, while the second section looks at larger backpacks that must be checked in for your flight.
  • All the models on our list feature a lightweight design, comfortable harness, thoughtful organization, and durable materials.
  • Consideration of travel needs, size, layout, weight, and structure are important factors when choosing a travel backpack for Asia.

Table of Contents

Man with travel backpack in Asia

Choosing the Best Travel Backpack for Traveling in Asia

When choosing the right backpack for your trip, several important factors must be considered.

First, you’ll want to think about the size and layout of the backpack, ensuring it has enough space and compartments to accommodate your belongings.

Additionally, the backpack’s weight is crucial, as you’ll want to avoid unnecessary strain on your shoulders and back.

Size and Layout

To find the best travel backpack for your trip to Asia , consider the size and layout that will suit your needs. When backpacking through Asia, having the right backpack size is crucial.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best backpack:

  • Ample Storage : Opt for a larger backpack that can accommodate all your travel essentials and souvenirs.
  • Organizational Compartments : Look for a backpack with multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
  • Comfortable Fit : Choose a travel backpack with adjustable straps and padding for a comfortable fit during long hikes and walks.
  • Durable Construction : Ensure the backpack is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of backpacking.

By selecting a backpack with the right size and layout, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the Asian continent and beyond without any worries about carrying your belongings.

With so many backpacks on the market, you will surely find the perfect one for your travel adventures.

For a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience, you should prioritize weight and choose a travel backpack that’s lightweight yet durable.

When exploring Asia’s vibrant and diverse landscapes, you’ll want a backpack that won’t weigh you down. The Osprey Farpoint (for men) and Fairview (for women) are excellent options. These hiking-style backpacks feature a suitcase-style opening and a lightweight design, making them ideal for long journeys.

The Cotopaxi Allpa L Travel Pack and Nomatic 40L are also worth considering. These backpacks offer durability and comfort, with the bonus of intelligent organization.

If you’re looking for the best travel backpack, consider the price an important factor in your decision-making process. While splurging on a high-end backpack is tempting, plenty of affordable options offer incredible value.

Here are some considerations when choosing the best travel backpack:

  • Explore budget-friendly models: By selecting a reasonably priced hiking backpack, you’ll have more money to spend on other essential items for your next adventure.
  • Exploring backpack brands: Opting for a backpack at a lower price point allows you to try out different brands and discover hidden gems that suit your needs.
  • Popular travel backpacks: Don’t be swayed by the hype surrounding expensive packs. There are affordable options that are just as popular and reliable for your backpacking journey.

You might also like to read another of our articles about why backpacks are so expensive .

Materials/Fabrics

When selecting the best travel backpack, you should always consider the durability and quality of the materials used. After all, you want a backpack that can withstand the adventures and challenges of your travel style.

Look for a backpack made from high-quality fabrics such as nylon or polyester, as these materials are known for their strength and resistance to wear and tear.

Additionally, check if the backpack has reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers, as these are crucial for the longevity of your new backpack.

Don’t forget to pay attention to the backpack straps as well. Look for padded and adjustable straps that provide comfort and support in carrying your backpack for long periods.

Weather Resistance

To ensure your belongings stay dry in unpredictable weather conditions, look for a travel backpack that’s both water-resistant and durable. When choosing a backpack for traveling to Asia, weather resistance is crucial to keep your gear safe and dry.

Here are four reasons why weather resistance should be a top priority:

  • Peace of Mind: With a weather-resistant backpack, you can explore diverse landscapes without worrying about sudden rain showers or unexpected humidity.
  • Freedom to Roam: A waterproof backpack gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path, knowing that your belongings are protected from moisture and other weather elements.
  • Durability for Adventure: Whether hiking through lush rainforests or navigating bustling city streets, a weather-resistant backpack ensures that your gear can withstand the rigors of your Asian adventure.
  • Versatility in Any Climate: Asia’s climate can vary greatly, from hot and humid to cold and rainy. A weather-resistant backpack allows you to seamlessly transition between different weather conditions, providing the flexibility you need for your travels.

Choose a backpack with superior weather resistance, allowing you to embrace the freedom and excitement of exploring Asia without worrying about the weather.

Best Carry-on Backpacks for Traveling Asia

Are you looking for the best carry-on travel backpacks for your trip to Asia? Consider the Osprey Farpoint 40L, NOMATIC 40L, Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, Peak Design Travel Line 45L, Thule Subterra 34L, and Osprey Fairview 40L (designed for women).

These backpacks offer the perfect balance between size, functionality, and comfort, making them ideal for navigating crowded cities, exploring remote areas, and quickly hopping on and off transportation.

Osprey Farpoint 40L

The Osprey Farpoint 40L is the perfect carry-on backpack for your travels in Asia. With its spacious main compartment and comfortable weight distribution, you’ll be free to explore Asia’s vibrant streets and bustling markets without feeling weighed down.

The adjustable torso fit ensures a customized and comfortable fit, while the padded shoulder straps and hip belt provide added support. The backpack’s compact design meets carry-on standards, making it convenient for travel. The well-padded laptop and tablet sleeves keep your electronics safe and secure.

However, it’s worth noting that the backpack lacks exterior storage options and a dedicated water bottle holder.

  • Adjustable torso fit
  • Comfortable weight distribution
  • Well-padded laptop and tablet sleeves
  • Compact design meets carry-on standards
  • Not so many exterior storage options
  • Lack of a dedicated water bottle holder

Osprey Farpoint 40L Men's Travel Backpack, Black

  • External Gear Attachment loops
  • Padded top and side handles

NOMATIC 40L

You’ll love the NOMATIC 40L for your travels, as it offers functionality and convenience. With its 20+ innovative features, this versatile duffel/backpack is designed to make your journey hassle-free. The bag’s TSA-ready laptop sleeve ensures smooth airport security checks, while its spacious compartments allow you to stay organized.

The NOMATIC 40L is also built to withstand rough travel, ensuring durability throughout your adventures. Its stylish design adds a touch of sophistication to your travel gear, making you stand out wherever you go.

  • Large capacity and easy to pack
  • Well-organized with pockets for gadgets
  • It is durable and fits under most airplane seats
  • Bulky and feels heavy when fully packed
  • Gets fingerprints easily

NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag- Convertible Duffel/Backpack, Carry-on Size for Airplane Travel, Everyday Use...

  • TSA Ready Travel Laptop Backpack: This TSA compliant bag serves as a carry on backpack with its…
  • Travel Smart: With 20+ innovative features, find your things easily with pockets designed…
  • Versatile Everyday Bag: In need of a stylish business backpack, a functional school backpack, or a…

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Pack all your essentials for your trip to Asia with the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This versatile and durable backpack is perfect for those who desire freedom and convenience while exploring new destinations.

With its 35L capacity, you can easily fit all your clothes, toiletries, and even a pair of shoes. The large zippered mesh compartment on the right side and the subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left side ensure you can keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. The padded laptop and tablet sleeve provide added protection for your electronic devices.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L isn’t only practical but also stylish, making you stand out while on your adventures.

  • Comfortable and adjustable harness system
  • Plenty of storage space and compartments
  • Durable and high-quality materials
  • Convenient and easy access to belongings
  • Stylish and eye-catching design
  • Difficulty remembering which pocket each zipper opens
  • Potential for scratches from overhead bin storage
  • Concerns about the durability of latches on straps

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Black+ New Waist Belt!

  • Weight-distributing, low-profile harness system.
  • Carry-on-compatible 35L capacity. TPU-coated 1000D polyester. 840D ballistic nylon paneling.
  • Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment. Large zippered mesh compartment on…

Peak Design Travel Line 45L

Carry all your essentials comfortably with the versatile and durable Peak Design Travel Line 45L backpack. This backpack is designed to meet international carry-on standards, giving you the freedom to move around without worrying about checking in your luggage. With its modular bag system, you can customize the bag to fit your needs, whether carrying camera equipment, tech gadgets, or clothing.

The dual expansion zips provide extra volume, while the dual side zippers allow instant access to your belongings. The quick tablet and laptop access ensures you can easily retrieve your devices during your journey. The backpack is also compatible with various packing tools, camera cubes, tech pouches, and wash kits, making it a versatile choice for different types of travelers.

  • Carry-on compliant
  • Expandable storage
  • Multiple pockets for organization
  • Robust straps for comfortable carrying
  • Comfortable back support
  • High-quality materials for durability
  • Waterproof design
  • Sleek and stylish
  • Uncomfortable chest and waist straps
  • Lack of interior straps for compacting clothes
  • The bag itself is slightly heavy

Peak Design Travel Line Backpack 45L (Sage) (Expandable 30-35-45L)

  • Modular Bag System by Peak Design, customise the internal carry options to match your requirements
  • Meets international max carry-on standards in default 35L configuration. Dual expansion zips give…
  • Dual side zippers for instant camera and item access. Full rear access via large dual zips.

Osprey Fairview 40L (Designed for Women)

Don’t forget to consider the Osprey Fairview 40L backpack when searching for the best carry-on option. This backpack is specifically designed for women, providing a comfortable and efficient way to carry all your essentials.

With its spacious main compartment, lockable sliders, and multiple pockets, you’ll have plenty of room to organize your belongings and keep them secure during your adventures. The Osprey Fairview 40L also has a removable daypack, making it even more convenient for day trips and excursions. Its adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap ensure a customized fit, allowing you to move freely and comfortably.

  • Designed specifically for women
  • Spacious main compartment with lockable sliders
  • Removable daypack for added convenience
  • Adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap for a customized fit
  • Not suitable for taller women (consider the Farpoint model)
  • Some users may find it heavy when fully packed
  • Limited color options are available

Osprey Fairview 40L Women's Travel Backpack, Winter Night Blue

  • Large panel zip access to main compartment
  • Dual front compression straps

Thule Subterra 34L

You’ll love the Thule Subterra 34L backpack as your go-to carry-on option for your travels. This backpack offers you the freedom to explore with its practical features and ample storage space.

With the Thule Subterra 34L, you can easily manage your cords and charge your devices on the go. Its wide roll-top opening with a magnetic closure allows easy access to your belongings, while the removable packing cube keeps your clothes organized.

The padded laptop sleeve with safe edge construction ensures the protection of your laptop, and you can access it through the top-loading compartment or the side zipper.

  • Neatly manages cords and keeps devices charged
  • Easy access to contents with wide roll top opening
  • Removable packing cube for organized packing
  • Padded laptop sleeve with safe edge construction
  • Multiple access points for laptop
  • Zipper durability issues reported by some customers

Thule Subterra Backpack 34L

  • Cords are neatly managed between your device and your mobile charger in the internal power pocket
  • Easy access to contents through wide roll top opening with magnetic closure
  • Keep clothes organized while traveling thanks to removable packing cube

Best Full-size Travel Backpacks for Traveling Asia

Looking for a full-size backpack for your trip? Look no further!

Some of the best options include the Osprey Atmos AG 65L, Osprey Porter 65L, Osprey Ariel 65L (for women), Osprey Aether Plus 70L, Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, and Osprey Renn 65L (also for women).

These backpacks offer ample storage space, comfortable carrying systems, and durable construction, making them ideal for your adventures in Asia.

Osprey Atmos AG 65L

The Osprey Atmos AG 65L is the ideal full-size travel backpack for your hiking adventures. With its lightweight design and comfortable anti-gravity suspension system, this backpack allows you to explore without feeling weighed down.

The curved zip access and floating top lid provide easy access to your belongings, while the included rain cover ensures your gear stays dry during unexpected showers. The Osprey Atmos AG 65L also features a reinforced shove-it pocket and an internal hydration sleeve, making it perfect for short and longer expeditions.

Whether trekking through the mountains or navigating bustling city streets, this backpack will keep you organized and comfortable.

  • Lightweight and comfortable AntiGravity suspension system
  • Curved zip access and floating top lid for easy access
  • Included rain cover for protection against the elements
  • Bright green rain cover may not be aesthetically pleasing to some users

Osprey Atmos AG 65L Men's Backpacking Backpack, Venturi Blue, L/XL

  • Included raincover made with PFAS-free DWR and bluesign approved materials
  • Curved zip access on one side of panel
  • Floating top lid with lash points

Osprey Porter 65L

Pack all your essentials and hit the road with the Osprey Porter 65L, the ultimate full-size travel backpack. With its large storage capacity and convenient organization, this backpack allows you the freedom to explore without worrying about leaving anything behind.

The U-zip zip access to the main compartment with lockable zippers ensures the security of your belongings. The padded sidewalls protect your items, while the shoulder straps and hip belt can be tucked away when checked.

The Osprey Porter 65L isn’t only durable and versatile but made with recycled fabrics and sustainable materials so that you can feel good about your purchase.

  • Large storage capacity
  • Convenient organization with on-the-go access
  • Durable and versatile
  • Discomfort caused by the flimsy backplate
  • Size may not be suitable for carry-on
  • Lack of a removable bladder

Osprey Porter 65L Travel Backpack, Haybale Green One Size

  • Zippered top pocket provides easy access to toiletries and liquids
  • U-zip full panel zip access to main compartment
  • StraightJacket compression with padded sidewalls secures any size load effectively

Osprey Ariel 65L (Designed for Women)

You’ll love the Osprey Ariel 65L as your go-to full-size travel backpack for exploring the world. This backpack is designed specifically for women, providing a comfortable and adjustable fit that allows you to move freely and effortlessly. The spacious front zip access makes packing and unpacking your belongings easy, while the separate bottom compartment allows for better organization.

The Osprey Ariel 65L isn’t only durable but comes in an attractive color that adds a touch of style to your adventures. With convenient features like pole stow straps and lower-access water bottle pockets, this backpack is designed to enhance your freedom and convenience while traveling.

  • Comfortable and adjustable fit
  • Spacious front zip access
  • Separate bottom compartment
  • Attractive color
  • Convenient features like pole stow straps and lower-access water bottle pockets
  • Fewer pockets compared to other models
  • No stow-on-the-go pole loops
  • Smaller waist-belt pockets
  • Lack of convenient stow for certain items

Osprey Ariel 65L Women's Backpacking Backpack, Claret Red, WXS/S

  • Premium efficiency and design
  • Storage tuned to the each season
  • Purpose designed to help mak the most of each exploration

Osprey Aether Plus 70L

When exploring the Asian continent, carry all your essentials comfortably with the Osprey Aether Plus 70L backpack. This backpack allows you to pack everything you need for your adventure without sacrificing comfort. With its large capacity of 70 liters, you can easily fit 3-5 days worth of trekking gear. The adjustable lumbar padding and strap adjustments ensure a customized fit, while the height-adjustable back plate and load-lifter straps help distribute the weight evenly.

The multiple compartments and side mesh pockets allow easy organization and quick access to your belongings. Additionally, the backpack features a removable top lid that can be converted into a day pack, perfect for shorter excursions. The Osprey Aether Plus 70L backpack isn’t only comfortable to wear but also made of strong and durable material, ensuring it will withstand the rigors of your travels.

  • Large capacity suitable for 3-5 days of trekking
  • Included neon-green raincover
  • Adjustable lumbar padding and strap adjustments
  • Height-adjustable back plate and load-lifter straps
  • Multiple compartments and side mesh pockets
  • The trekking pole holder and top portion can be used as a day pack
  • Comfortable and well-ventilated design
  • Strong and durable material
  • Pricey compared to some other brands
  • Complex design with many pockets and straps
  • Empty pack weight may be a concern for those aiming for a lighter pack

Osprey Aether Plus 70L Men's Backpacking Backpack, Black, Large/X-Large

  • Removable top lid converts to DayLid daypack
  • Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
  • Dual front panel zippered pockets for easy-access storage

Osprey Renn 65L (Designed for Women)

Don’t miss out on the Osprey Renn 65L backpack designed specifically for women, considered one of the best full-size travel backpacks for exploring any continent.

This backpack is perfect for women who desire the freedom to travel comfortably and efficiently. With its womens-specific sizing and fit, you can experience a pack tailored to your body, providing optimal comfort and support.

The Osprey Renn 65L features a fixed top lid with a zippered pocket, allowing quick and easy access to your essentials. It’s also compatible with the Osprey Daylite, offering additional storage options. The integrated and removable rain cover ensures your belongings stay dry in unpredictable weather.

With superb ventilation, a sleeping bag compartment, and hip belt pockets, this backpack offers convenience and functionality during your travels.

  • Womens-specific sizing and fit
  • Fixed top lid with zippered pocket
  • Osprey Daylite compatible
  • Integrated and removable rain cover
  • Superb ventilation
  • Sleeping bag compartment
  • Hipbelt pockets
  • Hard and rough shoulder straps
  • Lacks side pockets
  • It may not be suitable for heavy packers

Osprey Renn 65L Women's Backpacking Backpack, Aurora Purple

  • Women’s-specific sizing and fit
  • Osprey Daylite compatible with front panel cord loop attachment points

Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10

Experience the comfort and versatility of the Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, the best full-size travel backpack for exploring the planet. This backpack is designed for those seeking freedom and adventure on their journey. With a capacity of 65L and an additional 10L expansion pack, it offers ample space for all your travel essentials.

The Aircontact Core back system ensures effective load transfer, keeping the weight close to your body and center of gravity, providing full pack control and outstanding load transfer. The VariSlide adjustable back length and ActiveFit shoulder straps built on a Y-frame offer a secure and perfectly balanced fit, ensuring maximum comfort even during long treks.

  • Ample storage capacity
  • Effective load transfer for better control
  • Adjustable back length for a personalized fit
  • Comfortable and balanced shoulder straps
  • Hand washing only may require additional effort
  • It may be too large for some travelers
  • Limited color options

Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 - Graphite Shale 75L

  • Adjustable sternum belt, VariSlide System, VariFlex System, Pull-forward hip fins, Walking pole…
  • Inside compartment to keep your valuables safe, Elasticated inner compartment for storing wet/sweaty…
  • Hip fins with two zippered pockets, Goggle holder on shoulder strap, Lumbar pad for effective load…

How to Pack a Backpack for Travel

To make the most of your backpacking experience, start by familiarizing yourself with the proper way to pack your backpack. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and enjoy the freedom of traveling with a backpack:

  • Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimize wrinkles.
  • Use packing cubes or compression sacks to organize your belongings and maximize space.
  • Pack versatile and lightweight clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions.
  • Keep your essentials easily accessible by using the outer pockets of your backpack.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your possessions are packed efficiently and ready for your backpacking adventures.

Embrace the freedom of traveling light and easily explore the diverse landscapes and cultures. Happy travels!

Travel Backpack Sizing Guide

Choose a backpack size between 30L and 70L that suits your individual needs when traveling. Different sizes can work for you depending on your travel style and the duration of your trip. Here’s a table comparing the features of various backpack sizes to help you make the right choice:

When headed to Asia, a backpack in the 40L-45L range would be a good choice. It allows you to pack the essentials without exceeding carry-on size limits. Consider investing in one of the best travel backpacks of reputable brands that offer durability and comfort, as they are designed to withstand years of travel. Find the perfect travel backpack that suits your needs and desires for freedom.

Essential Items to Pack in Your Travel Backpack

Pack essential items in your travel backpack, and remember to include a first aid kit and extra toiletries. These items can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go and need a quick fix.

But what else should you pack in your backpack to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip? Here are some must-haves:

  • A portable charger: Stay connected and never miss a moment by keeping your devices powered up.
  • A microfiber towel: Lightweight and quick-drying, it’s perfect for those impromptu beach days or hostel showers.
  • A reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste by refilling your bottle wherever you go.
  • A universal adapter: Keep your electronics charged no matter where you are.

What are the best backpacks for traveling Asia?

A: Some of the best carry-on backpacks for travel in Asia include the Osprey Farpoint and Peak Design backpacks. The best full-size backpacks include the Osprey Atmos and the Deuter Aircontact Core.

What makes a backpack the best for travel?

The best travel backpacks are designed with specific features that make them ideal for travel. These features include durability, comfort, ample storage space, organized compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and a TSA-friendly design. The best travel backpack should also be lightweight and have excellent weight distribution.

What size backpack is best for traveling?

The size of the backpack you choose for traveling depends on your personal preferences and the length of your trip. However, a carry-on travel backpack with a capacity of around 40-45 liters is generally recommended. This size provides enough space for your essentials while still complying with airline carry-on size restrictions.

Can I use a backpack as a carry-on for air travel?

Many travel backpacks are designed to be used as carry-on luggage for air travel. However, checking the airline’s carry-on size restrictions is essential to ensuring your backpack meets the requirements. Generally, carry-on travel backpacks are designed to fit within the specified dimensions and provide easy access to your belongings during the flight.

What should I consider when choosing a travel backpack?

When choosing a travel backpack, you should consider factors such as the duration of your trip, your travel style, the climate of your destination, and the activities you plan to engage in. It’s also essential to consider the backpack’s features, such as size, weight, storage compartments, comfort, and durability.

What is the best backpack for hiking and backpacking in Asia?

For hiking and backpacking in Asia , choosing a backpack specifically designed for outdoor activities is recommended. Some popular hiking backpacks include the Osprey Farpoint 40, Nomatic 40L, and Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

What are the best travel backpacks of 2024?

While it’s not possible to predict the exact best travel backpacks of 2024, some backpacks that are highly rated and expected to perform well in 2023 include the Osprey Farpoint 40, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Nomatic 40L, and Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

What should I look for in a travel backpack for long-term travel?

When choosing a travel backpack for long-term travel, it’s crucial to prioritize durability, comfort, and ample storage space. Look for a backpack that can withstand the rigors of frequent travel, has adjustable straps for a customized fit, and offers enough room to carry your essentials for an extended period.

Can I use a laptop backpack for travel?

Yes, a laptop backpack can be an excellent option for travel, especially if you frequently travel with your laptop or other electronic devices. Some backpacks, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack, are specifically designed to accommodate laptops and provide additional protection for your electronics.

What are the advantages of using one bag for travel?

The advantages of one-bag travel include increased mobility, convenience, and flexibility. With one-bag travel, you can navigate airports and crowded streets more easily and be free to explore your destination without the burden of multiple bags.

Matt Francis

Matt Francis

Hi, I'm Matt Francis. A digital nomad, blogger, web developer and all-around good egg! I am the brains (and brawn) behind Everyday Ape. My website features a wide range of topics, with a focus on travelling and working online.

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Best Backpacks for Traveling Asia

The Travel Runner

The best backpacks for traveling asia [make your trip easy].

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This post was last updated on

Choosing the best backpacks for traveling Asia depends on many things. But these backpacks will make your Asia trip better (not worse).

When it comes to backpacks, your perfect pack is about as unique as your fingerprint.

The best backpack for traveling Asia depends on several factors, such as your height, the kind of traveler you are, the trip you’re taking, and where you’re headed. However, there are a few things that all the best backpacks for traveling Asia have in common.

This article will look at the 5 best backpacks for traveling Asia. I’ll also give tips on what to look for when choosing a backpack for your next trip — whether hitting the beautiful beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui or diving into the mountains of Nepal!

5 best backpacks for traveling Asia

Why getting the right backpack is important, what to look for in a backpack, how to get the most out of your backpack.

With as many backpack brands as there are (and more popping up every day), it’s a tough list to narrow down.

But here are the 5 best backpacks for traveling Asia :

1. Osprey Farpoint 40L

Best backpack for backpacking Asia

The Osprey Farpoint 40L is the perfect backpack size for Southeast Asia.

It’s a front-loading backpack with plenty of pockets and sleeves to keep your belongings organized and safe. The Osprey Farpoint 40L is also comfortable. You can easily adjust its shoulder straps, and the suspension system helps balance it perfectly.

Whether roaming Ho Chi Minh City streets or the ruins of Angkor Wat, the Osprey Farpoint 40L is perfect for you. 

And you won’t be alone in Southeast Asia. Many consider the Osprey Farpoint the best backpack for backpacking in Southeast Asia.

Also, they make a women’s version of the Farpoint called the Fairview 40L, which is probably the best travel backpack for Southeast Asia for women.

Top Features

  • Many pockets and sleeves for your small items
  • Great suspension system
  • Front-loading
  • Offer women’s specific version

Buy it here : Buy the Farpoint 40L on Amazon | Buy the Fairview 40L (Women’s) on Amazon

2. Nomatic Travel Pack

Are you tired of lugging around heavy luggage when traveling? 

I mean, you ordered a backpack, not a boulder from The Flinstones. No one wants a heavy bag while they’re island hopping in Thailand .

Well, say goodbye to those days with the Nomatic Travel Pack. 

This backpack is the perfect travel companion, whether you’re going on a quick weekend getaway or an extended trip.

The Nomatic Travel Pack has many features that will make your life easier as you jump from vehicle to vehicle. It has a built-in laptop sleeve, a water-resistant front pocket, and even a place to store your passport. 

Plus, the adjustable straps make this the best backpack or suitcase for Southeast Asia.

So whether you need a hiking backpack for the mountains, a city backpack for exploring a new city, or a suitcase for a business trip, the Nomatic will get you there in style.

This combination of features makes it one of the best backpacks for traveling Southeast Asia, digital nomads, and anyone looking for a solid laptop backpack.

  • Water-resistant
  • Great for digital nomads
  • Plenty of hidden pockets for safety

Buy it here : Buy the Nomatic Travel Pack on Amazon

3. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Are you looking for the best bag for backpacking Asia that catches eyes and works in the city and mountains? 

Let me introduce you to the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack. 

This pack has everything you need, whether you’re headed out for a quick weekend trip or a multi-week adventure.

The Allpa 35L is made from durable, water-resistant materials. So, you don’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet or damaged during the rainy season in Phnom Penh, especially with the rain cover. And it has many pockets and compartments, so you can easily organize everything you need based on your style. 

Plus, it comes in various stylish colors, so you can find the perfect one to match your outfit (for a day at least).

So if you’re looking for a travel pack that has it all, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack makes for a great Southeast Asia backpack.

  • Looks unique
  • Great water-resistance
  • Comfortable on your back

Buy it here : Buy the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L on Amazon

👉 Looking for the best Frontier Airlines backpacks?: 5 Best Backpacks for Frontier Airlines [Save on Fees!]

4. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L

If you’re a frequent traveler, you know your bag is like Frodo
and you’re Samwise Gamgee.

You’re helping each other. Even if one is doing less work than the other one and is just being carried around all the time and not providing muc
.oh, I’m sorry. I got carried away.

You get the point.

You need something large enough for your things but not so big that it’s a pain to carry around. You also need a bag that fits snugly like a good t-shirt but also with straps that keep the weight balanced. 

And, of course, it needs to look good, too. Not asking too much.

The Topo Design Global Travel Bag 30L doesn’t think so. 

It’s large enough to hold everything you need for a long trip but small enough it feels like a daypack on your back as you wander around getting street food. The straps are comfortable, distribute the weight perfectly, and the bag is stylish and well-made.

If you’re looking for a travel bag that ticks all the boxes, the Topo Design Global Travel Bag 30L is the perfect choice for the best backpack for Southeast Asia.

  • Many pockets for smaller items
  • Small enough for carry-on size
  • Distributes weight well

Buy it here : Buy the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L on Amazon

5. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 45L

Welcome to the world of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack 45L.

Voted ‘Best in Show’ and Editor’s Choice by several websites, like Outdoor Gear Lab, Gear Patrol, Gear Junkie, and Carryology, to name a few.

And one of the main reasons is its expandability. You can compact this backpack to make it 30L or expand it to 45L. So, the Peak Design Travel Backpack can handle your needs, whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist (this is a thing, right?).

And if you’re looking for a backpack that’s as stylish as it is functional, look no further than the Peak Design Everyday Backpack 45L.

  • Expandability
  • Sleek design
  • Comfortable
  • Large main compartment

Buy it here : Buy the Peak Design Travel Line Backpack 45L on Amazon

You may be thinking, “Why does it matter what backpack I use? They all serve the same purpose.” 

But you’d be very wrong. The backpack you choose can make or break your entire travel experience. 

The author walks in a field with is backpack on

Here are a few reasons why getting the right backpack is so essential.

  • Comfortable to wear . You’ll be lugging this thing around all day like an overworked mom with an infant. The longer you carry it, you’ll feel fatigue start to set in until you can’t stand it anymore. The best backpacking Asia backpack will be comfortable.
  • Enough space to fit everything . You need your backpack to be small enough to fit bag requirements but big enough to fit everything on your packing list. Quit the problem, right? So, it’s good to test different backpack sizes to know what you need.
  • Enough security for your valuables. You’ll have valuable items on you — passport, phone, wallet, computer. You want to ensure your pack has enough protection to keep them safe. Does the zipper have a loop for a lock? Can the material be easily cut with a knife?
  • Looks great . It may sound petty, but you’ll look at this thing daily. You better like how it looks. Plus, you can use the color to spot it easily. I like my bright red backpack because it stands out instantly if I ever need to stow it on a trip.

Your backpack is the last thing you want to worry about when packing for a trip . 

But with so many different types and styles of backpacks on the market, it can take a lot of work to know which is right for you.

A woman sits with a backpack on her back in front of small waterfalls

If you’re in the market for a new travel backpack, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • What type of traveler are you ? Are you the type who likes to pack light or bring everything? If you pack light, you want a lightweight backpack that’s easy to carry. But if you’re more of a ‘just-in-case’ type, you’ll need a big pack to fit all your items.
  • What kind of trips do you take ? Are you a backpacker who spends most of your time roaming cities, dashing between landmarks? Or are you a traveler who gets out of town and heads to the outdoors? Keep the features in mind for each type.
  • How much do you want to spend ? This one is obvious, but it’s important to stress. Travel backpacks can get expensive. And before you know it, you’ll have sunk more money into bags than your mom did for you in the 3rd grade (✋).
  • What extra features does it offer ? Do you want a day pack? Is a top loader (top loading) or a front loader better for you? Do you need a hip belt? Extra features depend on you.
  • What size backpack for traveling Asia? How will you be traveling in Asia? If it’s by plane, you’ll want to stay under baggage limits to save money. For that, stick around 30-35L. If you’re not traveling by plane, you have more flexibility.

Whether a beginner or a pro, you can do a few things to get the most out of your travel backpack. 

With some planning and the right gear, you can ensure your backpack is comfortable, functional, and stylish. 

The author looks at the camera, smiling, with an Osprey backpack on and snowy mountains in the distance. The Osprey series are some of the best backpacks for traveling Asia.

Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your travel backpack:

1. Choose the right backpack

Seems obvious, right?

But it’s a lot easier said than done. Even to this day, I’m constantly seeing new backpacks with features I think would help. I adjust what I take and try to slim down if I can. It’s a neverending process.

Plus, you may be asking, “What size backpack for Southeast Asia/Asia?”

Generally, you want to stay under 45L . If you’re in the 30-35L range, even better. Keep that in mind if you’re traveling on a plane.

So, it’s essential to think through which backpack you want. You’ll spend a lot of time with it.

2. Pack smart

You can have the best backpack in the world, but if you don’t pack it right, it doesn’t matter.

Here are a few quick tips for packing efficiently :

  • Get packing cubes
  • Roll your clothes
  • Distribute weight evenly
  • Remove even more items

If you want more advice on how to pack, I wrote a post about how to pack your backpack perfectly .

(I promise at least a few of the tips will be helpful 😉)

3. Try different things

You’ll surprise yourself even when you think you’ve nailed down how to pack your backpack.

You’ll find you should have been packing X in before Y, and if you put Z sideways, it creates 3% more space!

Sounds weird, right? Until you’re the one doing it. But take that time to try different things. Pack other items, put them in various places in your pack, and twist them around to see what works best and maximizes your space.

There’s no right way to pack — only wrong ways.

Wrapping up

If you’re looking for the best backpack for traveling Asia, your search is over!

This list provides the best options to suit any traveler’s needs. From packs specifically designed for travel to those offering a more general design, there’s something for everyone. 

So, what are you waiting for? Share this list with your friends, follow me for more travel tips, and leave a comment to let me know which travel backpack is your favorite!

Or, if you know anyone headed to Europe, here are the best backpacking tips for Europe !

Last, if you aren’t already, follow me on Facebook , Instagram , YouTube, and TikTok !

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Related Posts:

Packing Your Bag for World Travel

Must-Have Travel Gear for Backpacking Southeast Asia

What to Pack for Southeast Asia and What to Leave Behind

best bag for travelling asia

If you're planning on heading to Southeast Asia for the first time, it can be hard to know what to pack. Unfortunately, the thousands of packing lists available online don't make it any easier and often offer conflicting advice -- should you take jeans or not? Do you need a laptop? What about a first aid kit? Should you bring a backpack or a suitcase? Do you need hiking boots ?

Whether you're planning on lounging on the beaches of Southern Thailand , searching for orangutans in the rainforests of Borneo , exploring the temples of Angkor or partying on a cruise around Halong Bay , we have the perfect recommendations for you.

Choosing a Backpack

First things first, suitcases are incredibly impractical for Southeast Asia and you shouldn't even consider taking one. The streets are frequently unpaved, full of potholes and many of the islands in Thailand, fo example, don't even have roads. 

You'll need to bring a backpack, and the smaller the better. You should aim for a size between 40 and 60 liters and definitely no larger. While it may seem that bigger is better, remember that you'll need to carry it on your back, sometimes for an hour or more, in an extremely hot and humid climate.

A small backpack will therefore remove the temptation to overpack. There's no need to worry about forgetting something important either -- Southeast Asia is incredibly cheap so anything that you do forget can be easily replaced at a fraction of the cost.

As for which type of backpack you need? A front-loading backpack will save on packing time and is easier to keep organized, a lockable backpack will help deter thieves, and it would be great if you could find one that's waterproof -- especially if you're going to be traveling in the rainy season .

I've been traveling with an Osprey Farpoint for several years and couldn't have been happier with it. I highly recommend Osprey backpacks because they're durable, well-made, and Osprey has an amazing guarantee! If your backpack breaks for any reason at any time, they'll replace it with no questions asked. That for me definitely makes it worth your while! 

There are a few places in Southeast Asia that are cold (Hanoi/Sapa in winter immediately springs to mind), but there aren't many of them, so you'll want the majority of your backpack to contain lightweight clothes, preferably made of cotton. Try to choose neutral colors so that you can mix and match in order to maximize your number of outfits. You don't need jeans in Southeast Asia (they're heavy, bulky and take hours to dry), but pack some lightweight pants for any chilly evenings or temple visits. If you're female, you'll need to pack a sarong to cover your shoulders as well.

For footwear, you can get by with just flip-flops or sandals most of the time, but pack some light hiking shoes if you plan on doing a lot of walking. I like Vibram shoes (yes, they look weird), but they're good for all kinds of outdoor activities and pack down small. Bonus: everyone will be transfixed by your feet and you'll find it far easier to make friends because of them! 

Consider getting a microfiber towel as these can be huge space savers and are very quick to dry. A silk sleeping bag liner won't be used much as guesthouses in Southeast Asia are typically clean and free of bed bugs , however, it's still a good idea to carry one in case you end up staying somewhere that's a little dirty. If you're short on space, though, the silk liner is one you should skip -- I've only used it once in six years of travel! 

I have to mention that clothes can be bought and replaced for a couple of dollars in Southeast Asia so don't feel as though you need to pack your entire closet for every possible occasion. If you forget to pack something, you'll be able to replace it in most towns/cities in the region, and likely at a far cheaper price than you'd pay at home. 

Most medicines can be bought over the counter in Southeast Asia - including antibiotics and birth control pills, so you don't need to worry about bringing an enormous first aid kit. Pack some Tylenol , Imodium , and Dramamine (and a general purpose antibiotic if your doctor will give you one) to start with and replace them as they run out. You can pick up almost anything you need from any pharmacy (including birth control pills) in the region as you travel

You should also pack some insect repellent and sunscreen for your first few days, and you can then stock them up while you travel around.

When it comes to anti-malarials, whether you decide to take them or not is a personal decision, and it's worth speaking to your doctor before you leave to see what they recommend. I haven't ever taken anti-malarials in Southeast Asia, but malaria does exist and travelers do contract it there. Whether you decide to take them or not, remember that dengue is a far larger problem in the region, so you're going to want to wear repellent and cover up at dawn and dusk, when the mosquitoes are most active. 

It's worth investing in a small toiletries bag for your trip. It helps keep everything together and the rest of your luggage dry. If you're in a rush when checking out, throwing damp shower gel bottles straight into your backpack is going to lead to smelly clothes and a gross backpack.

For travelers, I highly recommend picking up solid versions of toiletries: they're inexpensive, they're lighter, they take up less space, and they last much longer. Practically every toiletry product you can think of has a solid counterpart, whether it's  shampoo ,  conditioner ,  shower gel ,  deodorant , or  sunscreen ! 

In addition, I recommend packing a small bar of soap instead of shower gel, a hairbrush if you have long hair, your toothbrush and some toothpaste, a razor, tweezers, nail scissors, and a  diva cup  if you're a girl. 

If you're all about wearing makeup, aim to keep your looks natural and minimal in Southeast Asia, as the intense humidity will likely have you sweating off your make up within minutes of stepping outside. I recommend opting for some tinted sunscreen, a brow pencil, and some eyeliner for tight-lining, and you'll quickly discover you need little else. 

Laptop: Internet cafes in Southeast Asia are in rapid decline so if you plan on keeping in touch with friends and family, you'll need to bring a laptop or phone. If you're going for a laptop, look for one that's as small and light as you can get away with, especially if you'll only be using it for email, social media, and to watch movies. Try to get a laptop that has good battery life as well as an SD card slot for uploading photos. 

Camera: Consider using a Micro 4/3 camera, such as the Olympus OM-D E-M10 , which gives you SLR quality photos from a camera the size of a compact. If you're not sure about carrying a camera around with you and would be happy with the quality of photos on your phone, then don't feel the need to bring a camera with you. 

Tablet: A tablet is a great option if you don't want to carry around a laptop, but still want to get online and watch TV shows on long travel days. 

E-reader: If you're planning on doing a lot of reading on the road a Kindle Paperwhite  is a worthwhile investment. The e-ink screen eliminates glare, so you'll easily be able to read a book while sunbathing on the beaches in Cambodia. It helps keep your bag lightweight because you won't need to carry any books or guidebooks with you. 

Phone: If you're going to be traveling in Southeast Asia, I'd suggest getting an unlocked phone and picking up local prepaid SIM cards as you travel. These SIM cards are the cheapest option for calls, texts, and data, and are available in most grocery stores. If you don't have an unlocked phone, then opt for making phone calls using Skype over Wi-Fi.

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Get Your Luggage Ready to Travel

best bag for travelling asia

6 Steps to Choosing the Best Backpack for Hassle-Free Travelling

Traveling through Thailand, and indeed South East Asia, means one thing: choosing a backpack that isn’t going to hinder your journey and make life uncomfortable on the road.

Whether taking the train to Chiang Mai, trekking across Luang Prabang, or travelling by minivan from Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat, a travel backpack can make or break your happiness.

There's a slim line between cool and comfortable and hot and heavy.

I'd go as far as to say it's one of the most important decisions you'll make next to booking your plane ticket.

As a seasoned traveller of ten years, I'm going to help you choose a backpack by giving you my top tips on the most important features to consider.

I'll give you a variety of choices too, so you can find the best travel backpack for your size and travel needs.

best-backpack-for-traveling

Best thing about a good backpack is it doubles up as a pillow 🙂

Step 1. Choosing the Right Size Backpack

Some people travel super-light.

I have a mate who turns up for a 60-day stint with a basic Jansport rucksack. He carries two changes of clothes, a laptop and a toothbrush and he's set.

I don't know why, but I always end up with more than I need.

So I go for the biggest, lightest pack I can get. 60-70 liters is about perfect.

Don't go bigger than that if you are under 5 foot 7 though.

Man, I've seen some people really struggling with 70+ liter backs on the BTS in Bangkok. Think of your poor body in the heat. Extra weight means extra energy required to support that weight, which mean extra sweating.

However, in my opinion, it's better to have a bit more space than you need.

Why? Because you will buy a few things on the road, no matter what sort of budget you are on.

Maybe you will collect some shells or stones on the beach, or buy a couple of t-shirts or handicrafts for the folks back home.

Don't leave with a pack stuffed to the brim. Leave some space for things you'll pick up along the way.

Kelty does some great backpacks that go up to 80 liters, like the one below.

kelty-80-liter-backpack

This Kelty Coyote packs in 80 liters!

Click here to see the full spec

If you're female, with a smaller frame, and want something super light. check out the Osprey below.

It says this is for women, but honestly, the weight of the bag and the features make it an attractive proposition for anyone really.

best womans travel backpack

Just 2.19kg! Also has adjustable torso length.

Step 2. The Pros of Multiple Entry Points

Many backpacks now open like a suitcase from the side but also provide access from the top.

This can be really useful. It's important when travelling because there are moments when you need to shove your hand inside quickly and access an item of importance; perhaps a document or some toiletries.

Having only one entry point usually means having to spill everything out onto the floor, which is not only frustrating, but also makes you a vulnerable target for thieves.

Older style packs have one main entry point and tie up with a drawstring at the top. This makes the pack fiddly to open and hard to access.

Imagine you’re trekking and come across a great stream to cool off in. You’ve only got twenty minutes to make the most of it, yet it takes you ten minutes to free your swimwear from your overly well-organised packing system.

Or you're at the airport, with 30 minutes until your flight, and you realise your passport is in a jacket somewhere in the middle of your bag.

With a good backpack, you can lay it down, unzip it and extract what you need without disrupting the entire bag.

Make sure your backpack has multiple entry points, big enough to access an item in any area of the bag (see above).

carry on backpack suitcase

This High Sierra opens like a suitcase & has top access on the front bag – which is detachable into a day pack.

Click here to see how it works

Step 3. consider top & side handles.

If you’ve ever taken the bus across the friendship bridge into Laos, you’ll know you’ll need a backpack that can be picked up quickly to wing-it through immigration as you hurry from the minivan,.

You'll also need one that stands upright when you board the bus with barely an inch to move, otherwise you will be laying people out if you keep that pack on your back.

Not to mention that having the luxury of carrying your bag sideways will give your back a much-needed occasional break.

In fact, there will be many a time on your epic adventure when you need your bag to behave itself, and having those top and side handles will become a blessing in disguise.

Paying that bit extra for a pack with soft cushioning on your spine shoulders is essential too.

The top handle must not protrude when it's pushed down, as you don't want to feel any metal/plastic on your back when travelling around.

Travel Osprey backpack with top and side handles

This gorgeous Osprey backpack has wheels, a side handle and multiple access points.

Click here to see more pictures

Step 4. think whether you'll need a detachable day bag.

A day bag is essential for one key reason: you won’t want to lug your main pack everywhere all the time.

Also consider flights or bus trips when you want your main bag stashed under the vehicle and a separate lighter bag to carry on.

Travelling can take its toll on your energy levels and your back, and although it can be tempting to just take the one big bag, you should take a smaller detachable bag to roll with on smaller journeys.

Perhaps you'll go off kayaking for a day, or spend a few nights on and island.

With a day pack you can lock up your main pack, leave it at the hotel/hostel (take all valuables with you or put them in the hotel safe) and explore with your big pack’s lighter cousin.

Of course, you could use a standard rucksack as a day bag, but an integrated, detachable bag not only looks cooler, but is super efficient for bus, minivan, train and plane journeys.

It also keeps all your stuff together when checking into hostels and bungalows and getting on and off transport. It’s peace of mind to know your bags are locked together and can’t be separated without some serious effort.

deuter traveler 70 backpack

This Deuter has a rucksack that detaches from the main bag to offer a smaller option for planes & around town.

Step 5. Choose Between Wheeled & Non-Wheeled

To have wheels or not to have wheels 
that is the question.

Personally, I like wheels, because when I fly into huge airports like Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi, I can wheel my bag and give my back a rest, not to mention making it first to the immigration queue.

However, if you’re travelling through the jungles of South America, you won’t be doing any wheeling, so you might argue it's not an essential feature for you.

But here’s my take on it:  Modern backpacks, like the Osprey pictured below, seamlessly incorporate wheels that you’ll barely notice until you’re whizzing along past all the other’s slow-boating on the way to the visa checkpoint.

Wheels add hardly any extra weight (none that you’d notice, anyway) to the pack and therefore they’re a feature well worth having.

Moreover, if you buy a top quality backpack, you’ll be using it on multiple trips, and at some point those wheels will come in handy.

Wheels is one of those extras you'll regret not having; kind of like electric mirrors on a car: you don't wish you had them until some loon swipes one off when you're inside the store.

Travel backpack with wheels

For me this Osprey Meridian Red is perfect: Wheels, side opening, top opening, and detachable day pack. AWESOME!

Click to read more on the Osprey Meridian

Step 6. my brand recommendations.

For a super-duper travel backpack that will get you around Thailand and South East Asia, and safely back home again, without breaking, or breaking your back, any of those pictured above will do the job.

In my experience, Amazon is usually the cheapest place to buy the top brands like Osprey, Deuter Northface, Kelty, and High Sierra. Use the filters onthe left-hand-side of the page to select by brand and budget.

=> Click here to start looking

With Amazon, multiple sellers offer their stock in one marketplace, which naturally drives up competition and reduces prices.

If you visit an independent store, you are only seeing the one price. You can often save quite a bit if you buy last season's model too,  because they drop the prices on old stock when the new models come in.

Next up, you'll need to get travel insurance. Don't worry, I've got you covered right here.

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Last Updated on April 25, 2018

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The foolproof packing list for Asia: 16 must-have travel essentials

Photo of author

Welcome to our ultimate packing list for Asia travel essentials

From mountainous jungle to enticing oceans, massive religious monuments to historical ruins, Asia has so much to discover. When you also consider how cheaply you can travel much of the continent, there is no wonder it is one of the best backpacking destinations in the world.

Given that Asia is so immense, many visitors opt to travel slowly across Asia to absorb as much of the beauty and culture as possible. 

With that in mind, we have come up with this handy packing list for Asia travel fundamentals and gadgets to help long term travelers and short term tourists alike.

Where the recommended product is a little expensive, we have also recommended a budget option too.

You may also enjoy:

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Coming up Traveling Fundamentals Recommended travel tech Travel Health The ultimate must-have essential Affiliate disclosure: The links to tours or accommodation in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase after following one of these links, I make a small commission at no cost to yourself. Think of it like a win-win ?

Traveling Fundamentals

A bloody good backpack.

You gotta have one of these if your backpacking right? Since there is tons of walking when visiting Asia, a comfortable and well-organized backpack is a travel necessity. 

There are a couple of things you may want to consider before investing in a backpack. First is if it has waterproof features, it is common to get caught in sudden downpours in certain parts of Asia frequently.

The other important consideration is if you be checking it in. If you plan not to, make sure it fits the requirements of a carry on backpack .

We recommend: Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 travel backpack

Of course, the backpack you need will depend heavily on the size you require, however you cannot go far wrong with the Osprey brand. One such backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40 that opens like a suitcase. Made of a durable material osprey Farpoint 40 boasts of roomy compartments, a plethora of pockets and lockable zips to keep your all your travel gears intact. For maximum comfort when covering long distances, the pack has generous padding and adjustable straps for perfect fitting.  The long-term traveler will appreciate the padded laptop sleeve and a lifetime warranty that comes with Osprey products. 

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the Gonex 55L hiking backpack with rain cover

best bag for travelling asia

Packing Cubes 

When I discovered packing cubes, it was a game changer when packing for long-term travel. They maximized space and helped my previously disaster zone of a backpack to stay organized. They also come in handy when separating clean clothes from dirty ones. The good thing is that they come in various sizes to accommodate different sizes of clothes. For easier identification of the piles of crap that will accumulate in your backpack,  you may find it easier to pack in cubes of different colors.

We recommend: Eagle Creek Pack It Original Starter Set

Eagle Creek makes excellent packing cubes. They are lightweight, washable, and made of top quality fabric. With over four colors and different sizes to choose from Eagle Creek is a must have for every backpacker.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the 7-pc Travel Packing Cube System

best bag for travelling asia

Backpack lock

Traveling with unlocked luggage can weigh on your mind, especially when you are in dorms. Now I will happily say that almost all of the hostels that I have stayed in, I have felt confident that my stuff is safe, but there is always one or two where you feel a little nervous about leaving things behind. opportunity. That is why I have tracked down some backpack locking systems for my packing list for Asia.

We recommend: Pacsafe Backpack and Bag Protector

For ultimate peace of mind, take a look at this full on wire mesh backpack lock. You just slip the backpack in there, lock it up and no one will be getting in.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the TSA Approved Luggage Locks

While these locks aren’t perfect, most thefts are a spur of the moment decisions and by adding a lock to your backpack, it will certainly deter thieves. The cables on these locks are a good length and should slip over most buckles as well as zips. If it is too small, you can always connect two together.

best bag for travelling asia

Ultra-portable water  bottles

To keep well hydrated and save on the cost of purchasing bottled water ever time, one of the best travel accessories to pack is a lightweight bottle.  Reusable water bottles also help in reducing plastic waste accumulation. Since drinking water is readily available in Asia, you just fill your bottle before long day adventures and enjoy your travels.

We recommend: Vapur Element BPA Free Foldable Water Bottle

Vapur element flexible bottle is a great solution. It is foldable, takes up little space, is cheap and BPA free. You can freeze water with them, and they are easy to clean.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the Qnch Collapsible Water Bottle

best bag for travelling asia

Portable luggage scale 

Overweight luggage can decimate your budget quicker than an ice cream melts on the equator. So to avoid this, a great little accessory is a small luggage scale.

We recommend: Camry luggage scale

With Camry portable travel scale, there is no more guesswork or excess baggage you can travel confidently. Camry is accurate, easy to hook on the bag, and is small enough to fit in your backpack. This handheld digital scale comes with a battery that holds power for a long time. The digital readout display is visible and large. 

best bag for travelling asia

A headlamp is a  great travel accessory for outdoor activities, especially for long-term travelers backpacking Asia.  Whether it is during unexpected power outages, hiking at dusk or merely trying to find the toilet at midnight in a dorm room when others are sleeping, headlamps are part and parcel of your travel packing list.  

Unlike a flashlight, the great thing with headlamps is that they free your hands so you can multitask while ensuring your path is well lighted.

We recommend: GRDE rechargeable headlamp

We love the GRDE rechargeable headlamp, it is one one the brightest headlamps available while also being waterproof should you get caught in the rain. We also love the fact that it is a rechargeable headlamp but it can also be powered by standard batteries should you find yourself away from power for an extended period of time. Finally, it boasts of three brightness level that can be adjusted by the switch (perfect for not disturbing dorm mates), lightweight and has a comfortable and adjustable strap.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the LE Headlamp with 4 lighting modes

best bag for travelling asia

Microfiber travel towel

Trust us when we say a packable travel towel is essential travel gear. We have seen many of the rentable towels in hostels, and quite frankly, we’d rather not see them again. Look for a towel that occupies minimal space in your backpack yet a quality product that lasts.  Due to variation in climate travelers envy a quick-drying material that is washable and durable.

We recommend: ECOdept microfiber travel towel

The Ecodept microfiber travel towel is a great choice. Made of a soft, absorbent, quick drying, and feather-light material, the microfiber towels comes in different sizes.  When rolled, it will fit comfortably in your carryon without eating space. 

Note: To ensure they retain their absorbency, avoid using fabric softeners and detergents.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the 4MONSTER packable microfiber towel

best bag for travelling asia

There will be a stage in your journey where these come in handy. Crossing the Zambezi to take a leap into the Devil’s Pool or just swimming in the ocean and don’t fancy leaving your valuables behind, a dry bag can come to the rescue.

They are great little things to stow away as they really don’t take up much space and offer plenty of use.

We Recommend: Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags

These dry bags feature double closure strip seals at the top to prevent water from coming in and the larger bags also have added protection with a roll top fastening. They are extremely sturdy, lightweight, tear resistant and best of all, it floats.

best bag for travelling asia

Recommended Travel Tech

Portable travel charger .

These have been a lifesaver for many travelers visiting Asia.  Not much is more irritating than getting a flat battery in a foreign land. Given that while traveling, you will often find yourself outdoors or in transit and away from power outlets, the chances are that at some point, your phone is going to run out of juice. Don’t underestimate how much Google mapping, communicating with loved ones that you’re safe, and of course taking millions of amazing pictures to show off to your friends stuck at home. These are all battery sapping behaviors, so a backup powerpack is borderline essential . 

Note: Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries that most airlines won’t allow to be checked I, so make sure you keep it in your carry on. Having been over the Atlantic ocean while smelling burning on a plane as one of these set fire in the hold, I can promise, it is for a reason. It is not a nice feeling!

We recommend: Anker PowerCore Lite 20000mAh Portable Charger

The Anker 20000Mah power bank offers great value. With two USB ports, Anker is super fast at charging and easy to use. Just make sure you remember to charge the charger, plugging your phone into it to see it too is dead is awful, trust me, I’ve been there.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the ZMI PowerPack 10000mAh Fast Charging Portable Battery Pack

best bag for travelling asia

Lightweight but great travel camera

While phones are getting better at taking photos every day, for most serious photo-backpackers, a camera is an absolute essential travel accessory.  There is nothing more fulfilling than capturing your best travel moments, scenic landscapes, and iconic attractions. Given that Asian destinations are a dream for photographers, an excellent lightweight camera is a must have for backpackers. While DSRL seems to do a great job, they are heavy and may not be an excellent choice for the minimalist traveler or long term traveler traversing Asia due to portability.  

We recommend: Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera

The Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera is a great choice.  Apart from being reasonably priced, a6000 captures fantastic photos and record great videos at 1080/60p. Thanks to its easily accessible manual settings featuring the menu button, dual function dials, and function button beginners can easily customize the settings. It has an in-built Wi-Fi and is light to travel with. It features filters, epic low-light performance, and autofocus system to ensure the quality of your images is maintained. 

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the Nikon COOLPIX B500 digital camera

best bag for travelling asia

Pocket wifi

An international wifi hotspot is incredibly useful when it comes to long-term travel. A connection has become an essential ingredient of everyday life.  The most common challenge travelers’ face is slow speed, unstable and insecure WI-FI. Since most long-term travelers work online to sustain their nomadic lifestyle, stable and robust portable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. Portable Wi-Fi comes in handy when traveling across many countries as you need to keep in touch with your clients.

We recommend: GlocalMe 4G LTE International WiFi Hospot

If you plan on spending much time exploring Asia, then Glocalme mobile hotspot is your perfect match. It is super fast and can basically keep you connected in most countries, especially in Asia. Glocalme comes in three different packages depending on the number of countries you intend to visit. This wireless connectivity password protected to avoid data leakage and can connect to multiple devices.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the ZTE Velocity 4G LTE Mobile Pocket WiFi Hotspot

best bag for travelling asia

Noise Cancelling Headphones 

Crying babies, snoring passengers or noisy neighborhoods, we’ve all had our peaceful journeys affected by one of these at some point, right? This can be frustrating, especially at night or during long flights, making it hard to sleep, read, or simply stay calm. Well, the good news is that noise canceling technology is fantastic and a great travel accessory.

We recommend: Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Bose quiet comfort 35 is an excellent choice that guarantees calm and peaceful travel experience.  It has unparalleled noise cancellation, long battery life, and superior sound quality and is Bluetooth enabled.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

best bag for travelling asia

Travel extension cord with USB

If you are an avid traveler, you’ve probably noticed that power outlets are not always located in the most convenient spots.  Whether you are in hotels, hostels, cafes, or airports, you may find that outlets are too few to charge all your gadgets. A power strip with multiple outlets and extension cord is your ideal travel companion. It gives you the freedom to charge multiple tech devices at once and close to your desired spot.

On a tight budget? Try the TESSAN 3 outlets travel power strip with surge protector

When it comes to Asia TESSAN portable power strip is the best.  For your convenience it futures 5 feet extension cord, three USB ports, two power plug slots, and fireproof material. If you want extra protection for your devices, you can bring a surge protector along.

best bag for travelling asia

On a tight budget? Try the UPWADE Outlet Travel Power Strip

best bag for travelling asia

Travel Health

Basic first aid kit.

One of those things you hope to never have to use, but you’ll bless the stars if you need it and you have it. Nothing too fancy, just have some plasters, anti-septic wipes, that kind f thing in the case that you get a nasty cut or even have to patch up some leech bites . . . tasty.

We recommend: 66 Pieces Soft Shell Travel First Aid Kit

This little pack is the perfect size for stuffing in your back pack and forgetting about it. For the tiny space inside, it packs a lot in there with almost everything you may need for any unwanted scrapes on the road. apart from tiger attacks. If you get attacked by a tiger, you’re probably better off heading straight to hospital rather than putting a plaster on it.

best bag for travelling asia

Portable UV sanitizing wand

OK, time for you to gross out for a minute. Have you ever considered the number of bugs on hotel sheets or even hostel mattresses? Trust me, it’s a lot more than you would probably think.

For the most part, they are harmless. But a lot of travelers don’t fancy sharing their bed with the microscopic hitchhikers. So, luckily some technology will help, the bug killing wand. 

We recommend: UV Care ultraviolet sanitizing wand

This portable device uses the power of concentrated UV Rays to kill off many of the germs and bacteria that get in its way. While it’s not going to get everything, it will undoubtedly be an improvement. It will even come in handy for your own sleeping bag if you are traveling long term.

best bag for travelling asia

Other recommend health essentials

I just wanted to give you a few extra suggestions that you may want to consider picking up from a local pharmacy before you travel. While they may take up a bit of space and you may never use them, trust me when I say searching for a pharmacy while suffering from crippling diarrhea in a foreign land just to save a bit of space is not fun.

  • Insect repellent
  • Diarrhea Medicine
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Rehydration sachets

Final product

So here it is, my top recommendation that I swore like a trooper when I didn’t have it and have never left it behind since. A plug. Yep, it’s that simple. It was when traveling through Africa that I had to do some laundry and none of the damn sinks had plugs. Now I don’t know if you have ever tried cleaning your underwear under running water, but it is bloody difficult. The great thing about a universal plug it is that you will never expect to use, it, you may not even do so, but when you need one, it is very hard to plug a sink with a sock. for the price vs. space vs. how useful it is should you need one, I highly recommend packing one.

We recommend: Universal Silicone Sink Plug

There’s not much I can say about it but look . . . It has a world map on it, that’s cool. ?

best bag for travelling asia

If you wanted to know more about my trip through Africa, I have a fun travel diary, How to clean your underwear in Africa , available on Amazon. You can also get a digital copy by joining my mailing list . Only updates, no spam 🙂

Final Words

Travel accessories make trips smooth and more enjoyable.  They save space, time, and money and offer traveler peace of mind. While the packing list may differ from each individual, the above-listed items are very beneficial and are worthy of investing in.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Packing List

Southeast Asia Packing List ‱ ESSENTIAL Items you NEED (2024)

Traveling through Southeast Asia is the definition of backpacking. Not only does it offer an adventure at every turn – it’s also gorgeous, diverse, culturally-rich, party-packed (if you’re into that sort of thing) and hospitable – and did we mention that it’s super cheap? If you like the idea of comfortably covering costs of accommodation, transportation, and meals for less than $50/day, you’ll be in heaven.

South east Asia covers nine different countries – Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam –  and the 9th is Singapore. Each country has varying activities, traditions and weather conditions – so you probably have a lot of questions about exactly what to pack for Southeast Asia.

And you’ve come to the right place to get your answers! We’ve put together this Southeast Asia survival guide that includes your top needs packing list, tips on what to wear in SE Asia to be comfortable and culturally appropriate.

Ok, let’s dive right in!

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Packing List

Pack for southeast asia checklist: personal gear, the basic stuff to pack for southeast asia, final thoughts on what to pack for southeast asia.

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

Nomatic Travel Bag

  • Capacity > 30L
  • Price > $299

Nomatic Carry on Pro

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

  • Capacity > 37L
  • Price > $400

GoPro Hero 11

GoPro Hero 11

  • Resolution > 5k

Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket review

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

  • Price > $600

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Insurance From World Nomads

  • Price > Click For a Quote

For many of you, this may be your first proper backpacking trip. With that in mind we shall ease you in and tell you exactly what to bring to Southeast Asia.

By the way, Southeast Asia is very popular with bloggers, influencers and ex-pats. If this is you, then check out our Digital Nomad packing list too.

best bag for travelling asia

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Nomatic Travel Bag

Best Backpack For South east Asia:  Nomatic Travel Bag

Before you even take on the task of figuring out what to pack for Southeast Asia, you’ll need an amazing backpack to pack it all into. For all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag .

The Nomatic travel bag covers every detail to make backpacking travel the best experience. Because of its smart design, it manages to provide loads of packing space in a convenient, carry-on size package! Its handy built-in pockets make plenty of room for all the necessities on your what to pack for SEA checklist – you’ll find separate compartments for important items like shoes, water bottle, electronics, underwear and darn tough socks . As an added bonus, there’s also an RFID-safe and cord management pocket.

You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack. 

Nomatic Carry On Classic

Best Suitcase For Southeast Asia:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. 

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Nomatic has been an industry leader when it comes to travel gear and that reputation is reflected in the quality build design and functionality of the Carry-On Pro suitcase. 

This is another one for minimalists. However, the big advantage is that you carry it on meaning you get to take advantage of the ultra cheap flights within Southeast Asia.

Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase. 

go pro hero 9 black

Best Camera For Southeast Asia:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities.

But
 if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black .

It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of a different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie-mode).

Think of a camera purchase like this as a long term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here.

If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

best bag for travelling asia

Best Sim For Southeast Asia – HolaFly eSim

The good news about Southeast Asia is that there is extensive 4g and 5g Internet coverage, taxi apps and food delivery apps. The bad news is that your native SIM card will not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around Thai phone shops queuing to get a local SIM card or you can is,ply install a eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the packages for the country you need, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport.

eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

Wandrd Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes For Southeast Asia – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few.

These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money. If you decide to pack light, then just buy the smaller ones.

Here is a packing tip and a life lesson – never leave home without underwear. Now that’s out the way, let’s run through our Southeast Asia checklist (drum roll please…).

Packing for Southeast Asia is for the most part pretty simple – a few pairs of shorts and flip flops will take you pretty fair and there is no shortage of markets selling funky shirts and “Leo Beer” vests.

However, it does pay to have a think about the time of year you are visiting and about any activities you wish to do. For example, if you are going trekking or camping you need good gear. If you are visiting in rainy season you may need a poncho!

OluKai Upena Sandals

Sandals:  OluKai â€˜Ohana Flip-Flops

Circling back to the footwear question, now we are going to talk about sandals. Sandals or flip flips or thongs (whatever) are very useful for travelling Southeast Asia. Just remember to trim your toe nails and I personally would not drive a scooter or motorbike wearing these unless you are open to the idea of losing a toe.

Your feet will be tired and sweaty from those long days wearing shoes so do yourself a favor: pack sandals and give your feet some well-deserved cushion and fresh air. These Olukai flip flops are ultra-comfortable, well-made, and come in a variety of colors. 

Check out the  women’s OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops . 

Osprey Daylite Plus

A Good Daypack for Hiking –  Osprey Daylite Plus

If you intend on doing any hiking, camping, day trips or even going to temples during your Southeast Asia trip then you will need a daypack. They are great for carrying water, hat’s and gloves and for packing sandwiches for lunch. We love Osprey products and this daypack is our personal pick. It is also very good for beach days and you can fit in your towel, speaker and an inflatable dinghy.

The Osprey Daylite Plus has a mesh-covered panel to keep your back cool and fresh by minimizing contact with the back of the pack itself and allowing air to get between you and the pack.

Check out our   full review of the Osprey Daylite plus  for more details.

Additionally, you can attach it to other Osprey packs in case you want to add more capacity and carry just one piece of luggage
 but the reviews on this feature are mixed.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

Good Shoes For Southeast Asia – Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

I won’t lie to you, a lot of backpackers in Southeast Asia survive the entire trip in flip flops. Other’s go barefoot a lot of the time. However, we recommend a good pair of tactical shoes – and remember, we are the professionals.

These are useful for hiking, for exploring cities and offer your feet some protection in the event they get mangled in a scooter – believe us, it happens. Take this opportunity to be good to your feet and buy pair today. I mean, your body is already going to be suffering enough from all of those full moon booze buckets you’ll be drinking and all that unprotected sex you’ll be having.

Showing the souls of your feet is also considered to be a faux-pas in many parts of SEA – you won’t have that problem with these!

Check out the  women’s Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero .

best bag for travelling asia

Good Rain Jacket For South East Asia – Arcteryx Beta AR

Did you know that the surface of the earth is 70% covered in water? And you know how that water got there? Yep because it tends to here rain here on planet earth quite a lot!

There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong gear for it. Don’t let a bit (of a lot) of rain ruin your trip and make sure you are ready with some top notch rain gear. I was recently in Bali during the rainy season – it rained – everyday. Thankfully I had a rain jacket. If you are packing for Southeast Asia in rainy season, then remember to bring a rain jacket yeah?

This is our pick of the many rain jackets we have tried. It’s reliable & stylish and looks good worn out in the mountains or in city bars.

Abaco Polarized Sunglasses

Best Sunglasses For Southeast Asia – Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your Southeast Asia packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

swimwear

In Southeast Asia, you’re never more than a drunken belly flop away from a blue ocean, an infinity pool or a “what could possibly go wrong” drunken river rapid inflatable ring. So make sure you pack your newest, nicest, cleanest and sexiest swimwear.

We’re not going to tell you what to wear in Southeast Asia (but elephant pants are a thing) but don’t forget Swimming clothes. Please. If you only pack one thing on this list, make it this (and your passport and insurance).

packable travel medical kit

Travel First Aid Kit

You don’t need to tote around half a pharmacy, but a well-stocked first aid kit should be in all our backpacks. Stuff happens on the road and it’s inconvenient and embarrassing when you can’t manage small situations like a cut finger or hangover migraine.

You can tuck this lifesaver away in a forgotten pocket – and it’ll be there when you need it.

Tip: Add a few bits and pieces to the first aid kit after you purchase it, like extra headache medicine, any personal meds you need (like allergy pills), whatever you take to calm your stomach and a few more plasters.

Planner/Travel Journal

Kodiak Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Travel Insurance From World Nomads

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

best bag for travelling asia

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Thinksport Sunscreen

Suncream:  Thinksport Safe SPF 50+

Backpackers in Southeast Asia can be neatly divided into 2 categories – the ones who packed & use sunscreen and the reddened, perma-peeling lobsters. Which side do you wanna be on?

Thinksport Safe SPF 50+ sunscreen gives folks strong sun protection in a non-oily formula that’s free of gluten, paraben, phthalates and biologically harmful chemicals.

Seriously guys, it is all too easy to neglect to put sunscreen on but please dont. Getting burned can cause long term health damage.

patagonia trucker hat

A Hat –  Patagonia Fitz Roy Trucker

The poet and songwriter Pete Doherty once said, “there are few more distressing sights than that of an Englishman in a baseball cap” . Well let me assure you that one infinitely more distressing sight is that of this particular Englishmens sunburned forehead hiding beneath monsoon- humid hair.

Baseball caps are great sun-blockers and great for hiding unsightly backpacker hair. I bought one and never looked back. They’re presumably also good for playing baseball.

Patagonia makes great hats. I have probably bought three or four of these over the last five years. Simple. Practical. Comfortable. That is what you are after. 

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a trip to Southeast Asia:

Old Bagan, Bagan

  • 1-2 pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
  • 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
  • A few pairs of socks
  • (Sexy) underwear x 5
  • Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
  • Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
  • Phone charger
  • Amazon Kindle for reading by the pool
  • Condoms. STI’s are not as much fun as they are cracked up to be.
  • Copy of your passport just in case
  • Cash (not too much, there are ATM machines in major cities and tourist spots)
  • Packable Towel
  • A packable backpack

best bag for travelling asia

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There you have it, adventurous friends! Your ultimate Southeast Asian survival guide complete with a top-22 needs packing list, a seasonal breakdown of weather conditions with wardrobe recommendations, what NOT to pack to save yourself space and extra weight, and our favorite travel bag to pack it all into.

Now you know all you need to know about what to pack for Southeast Asia – so set your mind at ease. Just keep in mind every backpacker’s golden rule – less is more. Stay focused on the essentials that will ensure comfortable and safe travels, and you’re good to.

Now – get excited – because you’re about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in all the splendor that is Southeast Asia!

best bag for travelling asia

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Monique MacPhail

Monique MacPhail

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best bag for travelling asia

Southeast Asia Packing List – ULTIMATE Guide for 2024

Planning a trip to Southeast Asia? Our guide covers the essentials to include in your Southeast Asia packing list.

We’ve visited all countries in SE Asia, and it’s one of our favourite areas to explore.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

southeast asia packing list girl with backpack

Travelling through Southeast Asia is exhilarating! Expect your trip to be full of adventure, diversity, smiling locals, beaches, incredible cities, and  fantastic street food ! 

The best part is that it’s super affordable too.

Southeast Asia includes nine countries – Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Laos, Indonesia, and Cambodia.

Each country has different local customs and traditions, varying weather conditions depending on the time of year you visit, and various things to do.

Our best advice for your Southeast Asia packing list is that less is more!

Travelling around SE Asia is much easier when your backpack or suitcase is light. It makes it so much easier when you’re guaranteed to jump on and off buses, boats, trains, tuk-tuks, and ferries to get around this gorgeous region.

Southeast Asia is one of the easiest continents to travel through. Many travellers wander through these countries with just a few items and some comfortable shoes.

If you forget something or need anything else, picking it up at the markets or the nearest mall is easy. 

Here it is! Your Southeast Asia Packing List :

southeast asia packing list rice fields

Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Travel Bag

Ok, some people are backpack travellers, and others are suitcase travellers. We chat about the pros and cons of each travel bag in our post  Suitcase Vs Backpack – Which one should you choose?

In saying that, we recommend choosing a backpack over a suitcase for your travels in Southeast Asia. You will encounter uneven surfaces, rough terrain, numerous islands, stairs, and random transport options. It is much easier to navigate this if you have a backpack rather than wheeled luggage.

Nowadays, you can buy awesome travel bags that offer both options, like the Osprey Wheels 36 Bag. You can wear this bag as a backpack and then convert it into a rolling bag, too. 

We’ve used many travel bags over the past twenty years. We now use the Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack ; we love it!

This is the ideal backpack for your Southeast Asia packing list. 

Do you need a small day pack?

Travelling with a small day pack is a personal choice. We travel with one as we always prefer to keep our valuables with us.

This is especially important when taking overnight train/bus rides.

We carry this small Osprey day pack

We often lock our large 40L backpack to something stationary when we sleep, and our small daypack containing our valuables will remain on our person, inside our silk sleeping sheet while we sleep – it feels much more secure to do this to deter any opportunistic thieves.

When we’re on the move, our small Osprey day pack sits on the front of our body with our Osprey 40L backpack on our backs; this makes it easy to access passports or money quickly.

southeast asia packing list

Choosing Your Travel Clothes

Generally, most of Southeast Asia is relatively warm throughout the year. Temperatures range between 26 and 36 degrees from cool to hot season, and the humidity is high year-round. 

The best clothing for your Southeast Asia packing list is light, breathable cotton, clothing you can mix and match, and items that dry quickly. 

Southeast Asia Packing List: Clothing for WOMEN

  • 1 pair of  black skinny jeans
  • 1 pair of Columbia zip-off long trekking pants  OR  Lululemon travel pants
  • 1 North Face  lightweight jacket/fleece
  • 1 Light Rain jacket
  • 1 pair of black  loose cotton pants
  • 1 light  long-sleeved cotton shirt
  • 2  basic t-shirts
  • 3 loose  singlets/tanks
  • 1  denim shorts  
  • 1  cotton shorts  (H&M brand)
  • 1  light short  (wear as pyjamas or to the beach)
  • 1  nice top  to wear out
  • 1 little  black dress
  • 2 pairs of  ankle socks
  • 7 pieces  underwear
  • 1  bikini   (we love Roxy brand swimsuits)
  • 1  Ripcurl cap
  • 1 bra  and  1 sports bra
  • 1  headscarf   (to visit places of worship)
  • Birkenstock Sandals
  • Havaianas – Slim Black flip flops
  • Merrell Women’s Black Hiking Shoes

Southeast Asia Packing List: Clothing for MEN

  • 2 pairs of Quiksilver Boardshorts
  • 1 pair of Travel/Hiking Shorts
  • 1 pair of Long Trousers
  • 3 Tank Tops
  • 1 Long Sleeve Cotton Shirt
  • 1 Smart Shirt
  • 1 Casual short-sleeved shirt
  • 1 Warm Fleece
  • 1 Light NorthFace Waterproof jacket
  • Salomon Hiking Shoes
  • Underwear & socks

heymondo 15% discount

Toiletries for Women

We’re lucky to be able to share some toiletries on the road – so it gives one of us a little more room in our backpack.

If Marty carries the toiletries, I’ll carry our  espresso machine  and fresh coffee to share the load.

southeast asia packing list toiletry bag

We try to keep toiletries to a minimum as they can be heavy. We also travel with carry-on baggage; therefore , all our toiletries must be 100ml or less.

  • Hanging Toiletry Bag
  • Small containers  (100ml) for refills
  • Shampoo/Conditioner  100ml each
  • Bar of  soap
  • 1  shaver/razor  (we never have a problem at airports with this in our carry-on)
  • 1  hairbrush
  • Roll-on deodorant
  • Toothpaste & toothbrush
  • exfoliating shower glove  (we found these in Morocco..love them)
  • 100ml sized  sunscreen  â€“ We like Nivea or Neutrogena brands
  • Nivea face moisturiser SPF30
  • Blistex  and lip balm
  • A few pieces of makeup (which we rarely use, but sometimes it feels nice to dress up) 1 tube of  foundation , bronzing powder, and brush,  1 mascara

Toiletries for Men   (as suggested by our male travel buddy)

  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Moisturiser
  • Shaver/small shaving cream
  • Mosquito repellent (with DEET!)

 Accessories/Extras

  • A  pouch  that holds my passport, different currency, bank cards, passport photos, copy of my passport, driver’s license, and a copy of our  Heymondo travel insurance  policy
  • Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
  • Silk sleeping sheet
  • Sarong  (our shower towel, beach towel)
  • Frank Green Portable Coffee/Tea Cup
  • LifeStraw  filter water bottle (this lives in our small day pack)
  • Oakley Sunglasses  & Protective Case
  • Travel clothesline
  • Lonely Planet Travel Guide ( Southeast Asia on a Shoestring )

Technology/Electronics

We understand if you’re a photographer, digital nomad, or can’t live without your MacBook and other electronics. We need these things as we work online as we travel the world.

Here’s what we take in our Southeast Asia packing list regarding electronics.

southeast asia packing list MacBook electronics

  • 13″ Macbook Pro   with charger
  • iPhone 13 Smartphone with a USB charger.
  • Apple  AirPods  for iPhone
  • Old-school  iPhone headphones 
  • Sony RX100 Mark III Camera   with leather case
  • Sandisk  2TB external hard drive
  • Worldwide adapter plug.
  • GoPro Camera  â€“ a waterproof stick/a few extra clips for it
  • Belkin  Powerbank 
  • Small portable  USB drive
  • Small pouch  that holds all cords for cameras, etc
  • Gorilla tripod  for our Sony camera

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Safety in Southeast Asia

Travelling around Southeast Asia is considered relatively safe, but it’s best to read our  12 Tips for Safe Travel.

The same goes for  travelling anywhere in the world; accidents do happen.

We highly recommend you sort out some good travel insurance to cover you when things go wrong. We recommend Heymondo  Travel Insurance (here’s a 5% discount on all policies )

We recommend adding one of their comprehensive travel insurance policies to your Southeast Asia packing list.

Another fantastic (and affordable) Travel Insurance company is SafetyWing Travel Insurance.  This is an insurance company created by travellers, for travellers.

These guys offer Travel Medical Insurance that covers people from all over the world outside their home country – The best part is that COVID-19 coverage is included in their affordable plans. 

Get Connected with eSIM

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Get connected the easy way when you’re travelling – and buy an eSIM! An eSIM works like an app: buy it, download it, and get connected within minutes! It’s easy, affordable, and convenient. Keep your original phone number too!

Read more about how an eSIM works or click below to see which eSIM data plan you need for your next adventure. Use our referral code: RACHEL5045 to get $3 off your first purchase !

Transport and Getting Around Southeast Asia

Getting from A to B in Southeast Asia is easy. If you’ve got the budget to include flights, fantastic! We book all our flights o n Skyscanner . The prices are unbeatable, and you can pay in your chosen currency.

If time doesn’t matter to you and you’ve got a budget to stick to, consider looking at trains and buses.

The best website for checking boat, bus, and train timetables is  12Go.asia

When deciding what to pack for Southeast Asia, remember that you may be taking many forms of public transport.

Therefore, a light backpack is essential to help you move about easier with more freedom and flexibility.

southeast asia packing list tuk tuk

How to Book Accommodation in Southeast Asia

We always use the same websites to book accommodation in Southeast Asia.  Booking.com  is our number one choice for booking accommodation.

In saying that,  Agoda  has some unbeatable deals all over Asia, so it’s worth double-checking if you can get a better price with these guys.

  • đŸ”„ Hot Tip: Book accommodation in advance on Booking.com
  • 🎟 Book your attractions and tickets online: We recommend Viator and GetYourGuide
  • 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
  • 📾 Join a Group Tour: Find some amazing Group Tours here
  • ✅ Get Connected with an eSIM: Fast, easy and affordable! View easy eSIM options here

Apps to download for Southeast Asia

Download these apps on your phone to make your travels in Southeast Asia easy.

  • Skyscanner (to search for flights)
  • Booking.com  (to book accommodation on the go)
  • XE.com (to check the latest exchange rates)
  • Maps. me (the best offline maps to help you navigate around)
  • Google Translate (while English is widely spoken in SE Asia, this app is very useful when you get lost in translation. )
  • 12.Go (book a bus, boat, ferry, train, or flight in Asia)

RELATED POST – 20 Best Travel Apps in 2023 (Plus They’re Free)

southeast asia packing list apps to download

 Staying in Southeast Asia long-term?

If you’re considering staying longer in Southeast Asia, check out the Trusted Housesitters  website for saving loads of money on accommodation. Become a house-sitter in Southeast Asia (and worldwide) if you’re considering staying in one place for a little longer.

Being a house-sitter means free accommodation for you in return for looking after different homes around the globe. Signing up for a membership was one of the best things we ever did!

Join now with our invitation and receive a massive 25% off your membership!

Travelling Beyond Southeast Asia?

Our  Ultimate Packing List for every traveller includes the items we carried on our journey to visit every country in the world!

Considering we move between all types of weather, from very cool temperatures to sweltering hot ones. And we still manage to travel with carry-on baggage only, our 40L Osprey backpack or sometimes our Samsonite suitcase , often weighing less than 10kg.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. Trust us, it’s one of those things you don’t want to leave home without. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

Click here and get 15% off Heymondo insurance, offer expires 24 March!

Join a Small Group Tour in Southeast Asia

Have you considered travelling around SE Asia on a small group tour? We highly recommend  G Adventures . They offer 30+ different itineraries in SE Asia, so there is a trip to suit everyone.

Check out the range of G Adventures Southeast Asia Tours.

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Travel Tips for Southeast Asia

If you enjoyed this post, check out these  20 Jobs that PAY YOU to Travel the World.  We love sharing our TOP TRAVEL HACKS to save you money  and the travel websites we use to save cash .

If you’re heading to SE Asia, we highly recommend you plan to spend a good chunk of time in Thailand!

Check out these  15 Amazing Things to do in Thailand  to help you in the planning stages, and we’ve got your back with these 26 Handy Travel Tips for Thailand.

Whether you’re planning to chill, surf, and relax at Kata Beach in Phuket , go island hopping or go on an eating adventure in Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand (you’ll need our Chiang Mai food guide for that), Thailand is a fantastic destination to kick off your Southeast Asian adventure!

Travel Planning Resources

✈ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏹 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

đŸ„ Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 15% off Heymondo, offer expires 24 March!) & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

đŸ‘« Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📾 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

đŸ¶ Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

đŸ“¶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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You guys are such an inspiration for me thank you for this post it’s helping so much for my first solo (female) backpacking trip!

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The Best Southeast Asia Packing List (plus what to wear)

Packing for Southeast Asia , is actually pretty straight forward. Given how warm and humid it is, chances are all your clothes will be lightweight and not take up much space which makes packing a breeze. Trust me it was much harder packing for other trips where I had both hot and cold climates to contend with!

The hardest things about packing for Southeast Asia is making sure your clothes are modest enough not to offend people yet don’t cause you to swelter. We’ll come to that in a bit…

This Southeast Asia packing list covers everything you need in your backpack as well as what clothes to wear in Southeast Asia for both men and women.

But first, before we get to the useful bits, I must plead with you: PLEASE don’t be that person who’s wandering around a holy temple in clothes that should be reserved for the beach. A bikini top with butt-skimming shorts is NOT appropriate attire for visiting temples and yet you can guarantee you’ll see at least a few people wearing just that. Save it for the beach guys…

I also need to tell you guys that I do sometimes use affiliate links in my articles. This means if I really love an item or think it will be immensely useful, I may link to it. If you purchase through my link I may get a small commission at no extra cost to yourself. This is how I afford to keep the blog running and providing free unbiased information for my readers 🙂

No time to read it now? No worries! Pin it for later!

Right, on that note let’s dive into this Southeast Asia Packing List. Let’s start with what clothes to wear…

What you can expect from this article...

  • 1.1 What to wear in Southeast Asia at temples
  • 1.2 What to wear in Southeast Asia’s Cities
  • 1.3 What to wear at Southeast Asia’s beaches
  • 1.4 What to wear in the evenings in Southeast Asia
  • 1.5 Buying clothes in Southeast Asia
  • 1.6 Which shoes to wear in Southeast Asia
  • 2 Women’s Clothes Packing List for Southeast Asia
  • 3 Men’s Clothes Packing List for Southeast Asia
  • 4 Documents to Pack for SouthEast Asia
  • 5 Travel Essentials for your Southeast Asia Packing List
  • 6.1 General Electronics
  • 6.2 Photography packing list for Southeast Asia
  • 7 Toiletries to pack for Southeast Asia
  • 8 Southeast Asia Travel First Aid Kit
  • 9 Non Essential Items for your packing list
  • 10 Backpack vs Suitcase for Southeast Asia?
  • 11 Packing Tips for Southeast Asia
  • 12 Other Packing Lists you may enjoy
  • 13 Other Related Articles

What to Wear in Southeast Asia

It’s important to remember that even though it’s hot and humid in Southeast Asia, the culture is conservative. You risk offending local people if you don’t dress in appropriate clothes especially in holy places like temples.

What to wear in Southeast Asia at temples

In temples, make sure that your shoulders and knees and everything in between is covered. Maxi skirts with t-shirts are a great option that shouldn’t make you overheat. If you do choose to wear a strappy top, get a lightweight kimono to cover your shoulders with and wear longer length shorts or trousers that reach your knees. If you don’t have any, sometimes the temples will provide shawls which can be used to cover your shoulders or can be tied to make a skirt which reaches your knees.

For men, wear longer shorts which reach your knees and a t shirt with short sleeves. Avoid sleeveless vests at temples, especially the type which gape and show off your chest! Keep them for the beach!

What to wear in Southeast Asia’s Cities

The big cities, especially Bangkok , are slightly less conservative than some of the smaller towns and villages so baring your shoulders here is generally acceptable except when you are visiting temples. But I still recommend wearing shorts that fully cover your butt and tops which are not low cut and do not show your midriff off.

What to wear at Southeast Asia’s beaches

The popular islands and beaches are a lot more used to ‘beach clothes’ and so you should be fine to wear your short shorts and strappy tops here. But keep the bikinis for the beach and never sunbathe topless if you are a woman – it could really offend the locals. I would veer towards slightly more conservative bikinis and swimsuits. Perhaps use it as an excuse to invest in a pretty beach dress or kaftan?!

For men, stick to regular board shorts and stick a t shirt on when you are walking around the town, especially if you are somewhere more remote. You can get away with baring more flesh in places like Koh Phi Phi who are very used to having lots of tourists.

What to wear in the evenings in Southeast Asia

Long sleeves are ideal in the evenings to help avoid getting too many mozzie bites. Choose light weight floaty materials or you could even consider getting t shirts in fabrics which are pregnated with mosquito repellant .

It’s likely to remain warm at night but as you get accustomed to the weather, you may get chilly in the evenings so I recommend you pack 1 jumper. This is also useful on air conditioned buses when it might get cold.

As for going out in the evening, most places are fine with flip flops unless you are visiting any swanky bars in Bangkok such as the Sky Bar for views over the city! In most places, a dress and flip flops or even shorts for a girl is acceptable for a night out and the dress code is fairly casual. Similarly, men may choose to wear shorts, a t-shirt and flip flops.

Buying clothes in Southeast Asia

Lots of people travel with a fairly empty backpack planning to buy their clothes in Southeast Asia. If you’re short and petite, then fine, go for it! Elephant pants are super comfy! But if your averaged sized or larger you may struggle as a British size 12 (10 in the U.S) is classed as Large or Extra Large in Southeast Asia! I had to get a sleeping bag in Indonesia before I travelled to East Africa, and it only came up to my waist! (I’m 5ft8.)

If you want to wear elephant pants and you are a size 12 or larger, you can buy them online beforehand in your actual size.

Which shoes to wear in Southeast Asia

You will spend most of your days wearing flip flops. I recommend investing a little more and getting some really comfy ones like those made by Teva which will support your feet and won’t fall apart. It’s worth spending the extra to avoid having to buy 5 pairs along the way, all of which fall apart after 5 minutes. ( and there are many beautiful hikes)

If you are planning on doing some hiking or staying anywhere rural, then you will need a pair of comfy trainers or hiking boots. I’d choose trainers as they are lighter and easier to wear unless you are planning any serious hikes in which case boots may be necessary.

You may want to consider a 3rd pair of shoes but only if you think you won’t be comfortable in flip flops all day every day. I have flat feet so flip flops make my feet ache if I wear them too much so I usually pack a pair of super light and incredibly comfy TOMs shoes which don’t take up much space.

Read next: Long haul flight essentials checklist

Women’s Clothes Packing List for Southeast Asia

  • 3 strappy tops
  • 3 t-shirts with short sleeves
  • 2 dresses, 1 shorter dress and 1 maxi dress
  • 1 long sleeved top preferably impregnated with mozzie repellant .
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 1 skirt (below the knee length)
  • 1 pair of gym-style leggings
  • 7 x underwear
  • 1 x sports bra
  • 2 pairs of socks – you’ll be wearing flip flops and sandals mostly.
  • 2 x bikini or swimsuit
  • 1 kaftan or shawl
  • 1 jumper or cardigan
  • 1 set of PJs or a 2nd pair of leggings to wear at night.
  • 1 pair of flip flops
  • 1 pair of trainers or hiking boots.
  • +/- 1 pair of super comfy flats.
  • 1 pair of cheap UV-safe sunglasses – they’ll likely get damaged and you’ll replace them with some cheap “Roy Bons”
  • 1 Sunhat. Again easy to replace if it gets damaged.
  • A lightweight waterproof jacket

Men’s Clothes Packing List for Southeast Asia

  • 1 short sleeved shirt
  • 1 long sleeved top for the evening (preferably impregnated with mozzie repellant)
  • 2 pairs of shorts, including 1 pair of knee-length shorts
  • 1 pair of lightweight trousers
  • 2 x board shorts
  • 2 pairs of socks
  • Trainers or hiking boots
  • 1 pair of cheap sunglasses (UV protected)

Documents to Pack for SouthEast Asia

Check, double-check and triple-check that you have your passport! I speak from experience… Once having returned to the U.K. for an interview where I had forgotten I’d taken my passport it of its cover to show them as ID. Before I left for my flight back to Australia where I lived at the time, I grabbed my passport cover and only discovered the missing passport when I tried to check in…

Here’s a few other documents worth packing…

  • Travel insurance details. I recommend using Nomads travel insurance who are great for insuring for adventure trips
  • A paper copy of important addresses and contact numbers such as the hotel and flight details in case your phone runs out of battery.
  • If you are travelling from a country with yellow fever, you need to bring proof of your yellow fever vaccination .
  • If you are on regular medications, bring two copies of your prescription , one for your hand luggage and the other for your backpack.
  • Some passport photos are useful in case you need them to organise a visa at any of the Southeast Asian borders.
  • Cash + more than 1 credit or debit card . I use an Easy FX currency card which allows me to convert money into foreign currency instantly at the best exchange rate. It can also be used in shops and restaurants as a debit card. But always have a spare card and keep it somewhere safe. Always have some cash as not everywhere will accept card payments.

Travel Essentials for your Southeast Asia Packing List

  • Travel Towel . Look for one which is sand-free, anti-bacterial and quick drying. I love these fun colourful ones from Dock and Bay.
  • Sleep sheet – packing a silk liner will weight barely anything at all and will be really useful if you are staying in budget accommodation as there may be times where you don’t fancy sleeping on the dubious bedding provided…
  • Earplugs . If you are planning on staying in any hostels, you will want to have some noise-cancelling earplugs just in case you get unlucky with a snorer or a 4 AM party animal!
  • Travel pillow . I was so excited when they bought out this 3 -in-1 travel pillow so you no longer have to choose between bringing a pillow for sleep and a neck pillow for journeys. It even converts into a back support as well. Genius.
  • Water bottle . You won’t be surprised to learn that the tap water is not safe to drink in most places in Southeast Asia. So to avoid paying for bottled water (which is also pretty environmentally unfriendly) get a water bottle with a filter system. This clever water bottle filters the water as you drink therefore keeping you safe. Its environmentally friendly and cost saving. Get a 15% discount with the code GLOBETROTTERGP if you order through their website Watertogo.eu
  • Padlocks . Paying attention to security is important when you are travelling in Southeast Asia. Consider using padlocks, or for more subtle security, use some cable ties. Though make sure you have a penknife handy to cut them open again when you reach your destination! Another option is a theftproof bag. Some of them are really pretty these days so you wont have to sacrifice style for security.
  • Laundry line – especially if you will be on the move a lot as you won’t necessarily be able to get your washing done for you. Have a laundry line and you can wash your laundry in the sink and hang it out to dry overnight.
  • A head torch . Useful in poorly lit streets and also in hostels when you need to find something in your bag without waking up the whole dorm.
  • A swiss army knife. So so useful. Be it for trimming your cable ties mentioned above, opening your bottle of beer or peeling fruit bought at street food stalls.
  • A journal . Make sure you record your memories as you go. Be it by writing a blog or note keeping in a good old fashioned journal. You’ll enjoy looking back on this in years to come…
  • Waterproof backpack cover . When it rains in Southeast Asia, it REALLY rains. So make sure you have a waterproof cover for your backpack just in case!
  • Duct tape . Comes in handy for mending EVERYTHING.
  • Dry bag . An essential if you are spending time at the beach or on boats. A dry bag will keep all your belongings dry and will float if you happen to drop it in the water. It’s great to have peace of mind.
  • Cable organiser . If you are like me, you will have a lot of technology and electric devices with you when you travel. Help to keep them organised and tangle-free in a cable organiser .
  • Biodegradable fabric wash . If you are planning on doing some of your own washing then get some biodegradable soap . You can even wash your clothes in a stream if you are doing some multi-day trekking.

Electronics for your SouthEast Asia Packing List

General electronics.

  • Headphones . I took some fancy beats bluetooth headphones with me on my last trip and whilst the sound was brilliant quality, it annoyed me that I had to charge them every few days – I have enough to charge! So I think I’ll be reverting to some good old fashioned headphones next time and I’ll reserve those for the gym instead.
  • Worldwide Plug Adapter . Different countries in Southeast Asia will require different plug sockets. So splurge on a worldwide adapter . It’ll save you money in the long run.
  • Kindle . If you’re anything like me you’ll get 1 chapter into a book, decide its not working for you and wish you bought a kindle instead with a huge library of potential books. The latest kindles are both great for reading in bright sunlight and are also waterproof so they are great for reading at the beach.
  • Power bank . You’ll want to keep your phone charged up for use on long journeys. A power bank is always one of the most important things on my Southeast Asia packing list. Also, you may only have access to one charge point if you are staying in a hostel. If you charge a power bank overnight, you’ll be able to charge all of your devices on the go the next day. This one can also be charged by solar power too.
  • Laptop or Ipad . An Ipad mini is really useful when you are travelling for watching films on journeys, editing and storing your photos and sending emails home. For most people, an Ipad or equivalent tablet is all you need. If you are a blogger like me then I’d recommend taking a travel-sized laptop as an Ipad just isn’t convenient for all that writing! I use the Macbook as it is incredibly light but also powerful.

Photography packing list for Southeast Asia

  • Waterproof camera . There are so many pristine reefs along the coastline of Southeast Asia, you are going to want to capture it on camera. I have a GoPro hero 6 which takes brilliant photos and videos but if your budget won’t stretch to a GoPro, there are plenty of cheap alternatives under $50 like this one .
  • Regular camera. This will all depend on your level of photography. But since Southeast Asia has some absolutely wonderful landscapes, I’d encourage you to bring a good camera if you have at least a little interest in photography. If you’re looking for an entry level DSLR, you can’t go wrong with the Nikon D5600 . I learnt on its predecessor the D5500 which I loved for many years. These days I use a mirrorless camera which is lighter. I use a rather pricey but fabulous Sony A7iii . However I’d recommend for those just dabbling in photography, the A6000 (cheaper) and A6500 are fantastic options.
  • Lenses . If you are bringing a DSLR or mirrorless camera you will need some lenses for it. I recommend a telephoto lens and something a bit wider so you can capture wildlife, landscapes, portraits and street photography, For the Nikon DSLRS , I loved my 18-105mm and 55-300mm lenses. For Sony, I’d recommend a 16-50mm and a 55-210mm .
  • Tripod or Gorillapod . If you are travelling solo and want some piccies of yourself or you are a serious landscape photographer, you’ll be needing a travel tripod. I use the Benro travel tripod but if I’m short on space, I’ll just use a Gorillapod which can even be attached to fences and branches to get the right angle and perspective.
  • Polariser filter. The one filter I wouldn’t leave home without is a polarising filter . This inexpensive accessory will help boost the colours, decrease reflections and prevent washed out skies in your photos.
  • Theft proof camera bag . You need to think about how you’ll protect your camera as petty crime is common. A theft proof camera bag will give you some peace of mind. Here is a list of some of the best theft proof bags for travel
  • Memory cards . Always take a few spares, you never know when one might fail. I personally don’t like deleting photos until I get home so I can back them up in a few places so I always take several memory cards. I usually use 32gb Ultra San Disk SD cards which are fast enough for photos and video.

Toiletries to pack for Southeast Asia

  • Sunscreen – I recommend getting reef safe sunscreen if you are snorkelling
  • Mosquito repellant
  • Deodorant – you’re going to sweat – a LOT!
  • Conditioner
  • Eco-friendly refillable squeezy bottles for all your shower lotions and potions
  • Travel sized moisturiser – can also be used as after sun.
  • A Tangle teezer hairbrush – the only hairbrush I take with me now
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Wet wipes – keep these in your hang luggage – so handy!
  • Hand sanitiser – trust me, you’ll be using this a LOT.
  • Blister plasters and regular plasters.
  • For women; Feminine hygiene products. Tampons are especially hard to find in many Southeast Asian countries.
  • Basic make-up. I don’t take much but I like to have a foundation, mascara and a clear lip gloss at a minimum. Find out what is in my  travel make-up bag.
  • For men; shaver

Top Tip: Ladies, if you have wavy frizz-prone hair like me, consider getting a Brazilian blow dry before you leave. I always do this before I travel now which means my hair stays smooth and straight whilst I’m away with minimal fuss. You can have it done properly in a salon or if you don’t have the cash, you can get DIY keratin kits to do at home.

Southeast Asia Travel First Aid Kit

  • Your Regular medications – split these between your hand luggage and main bag just in case they go missing. If you are a diabetic travelling with insulin then read my guide about travelling with diabetes .
  • Anti-diarrhoea medication – loperamide . Trust me, long journeys without this when you get an upset stomach will NOT be fun.
  • Paracetamol – your go-to medication for a headache or fever.
  • Ibuprofen – great for muscular injuries though always take with food
  • Consider speaking to your GP about some broad-spectrum antibiotics – just in case.
  • Antihistamines – useful for allergic reactions.
  • Buscopan – this can help with abdominal cramps if you get gastro.
  • Anti-malaria medication . Most places in Southeast Asia have low or no risk of malaria but there are some places you will need to take anti-malaria medication for. Check the Fit For Travel website for malaria maps to see if where you are going, requires them.

Non Essential Items for your packing list

  • Yoga matt . If yoga on the beach is your thing then you may want to consider a travel yoga matt . This would not be necessary if you just plan to take the occasional class.
  • Travel hammock – a nice luxury if you have space in your backpack. I’m imagining being in a hammock right now sipping a pina colada and reading a good book… Bliss! But it’s certainly not essential…
  • Travel speakers. Only really necessary if you want to host beach parties! But they do come in tiny compact travel size these days.
  • Snorkel set – if you’re planning on skipping the tours and want to do some DIY snorkelling, you may want to bring a snorkel set with you.
  • Pair of high heels . Only necessary if you want to visit the super trendy city sky bars where the dress code is significantly smarter than most bars in Southeast Asia.
  • Travel guidebook . You could just read my blog… But if you insist on taking a guidebook, I’d recommend lonely planet and the rough guides which are regularly updated and full of really useful information.
  • Waterproof phone case . Great for keeping your phone safe on a boat or a beach and if you don’t have an underwater camera, you could even use it to get some photos. That said, I’m not sure I’d be brave enough to submerge my phone completely unless your phone is water resistant as most are these days! Or at least test it first…
  • Travel straighteners . Like I mentioned earlier, I always get a brazilian blow dry before I travel so my hair stays frizz free and straight. But if you really want to take straighteners with you to fight the humidity frizz, then make sure you get the lightweight travel ones. These ones allow you to both straighten and curl hair.
  • Scrubba bag . The scrubba bag is actually a travel washing machine! Yes really. It requires a little more effort than a regular washing machine but it doesn’t take up much space in your luggage (it fits in the palm of your hand) and it will wash your clothes faster and better than you will manage in a sink! But don’t take my word for it, read the reviews .

Backpack vs Suitcase for Southeast Asia?

If you are going straight from the airport via a taxi to a plush hotel in the city or resort by the coast then it would be fine to take a suitcase.

However, if you are planning to travel around Southeast Asia, a backpack will be essential. The road and paths are often bumpy, dusty and broken and the wheels on your suitcase wont last long! Also you cannot relay on lifts working at all times and sometime you will have to carry your luggage up several flights of stairs.

Short stay, 1 hotel = suitcase

Longer stay, multiple locations = backpack

You will also need a day bag and if you have lots of camera gear then you may want to consider an anti theft camera bag which is big enough to include the other essentials you may need on a day out in Southeast Asia such as water, sunglasses, currency, a phone and your camera.

Packing Tips for Southeast Asia

  • Do not over pack. You will always wish you bought less. I have never once thought “I wish I bought more stuff with me…”
  • Packing cubes will be your best friend. They’ll help you organise your clothes and keep your clean and dirty clothes separately.
  • Roll your clothes rather than fold them to avoid creases
  • Take non-crease clothes – SO much easier
  • Take plenty of ziplock bags to organise your belongings
  • Maximise space by packing socks and underwear into your boots or trainers
  • Make sure you adjust your rucksack to fit you so that it will evenly distribute the weight.
  • Leave some space in your backpack so that it’s not a logistical challenge every time you need to pack and move to a new hotel. Also, you’ll want space for a few souvenirs.

Hopefully, you feel a lot more confident about what to include in your Southeast Asia packing list now. Here are a few take-home messages I hope you’ve gleaned…

  • Choose lightweight materials which dry quickly.
  • Cover shoulders to knees whenever you are visiting a temple.
  • Take plenty of reefsafe sunscreen and mosquito repellant with you.
  • Packing cubes will help you pack smart and save you a lot of stress.
  • If you’re going to be travelling around Southeast Asia, then use a backpack.

Other Packing Lists you may enjoy

  • Galapagos packing list
  • South America Packing list for hot and cold climates
  • Skiing Packing List
  • Backpacking Essentials

Other Related Articles

  • The Perfect 10 day Thailand Itinerary
  • Thailand Island Hopping From Phuket
  • B ackpacking Laos Travel Guide
  • The Best Cambodia and Vietnam Itinerary
  • The Ultimate Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks
  • A Singapore City Guide by a Local

Do you have any questions about this packing list for Southeast Asia? If so, drop them in the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer them!

In the meantime, here are some pretty pins for your Pinterest boards…

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Leanne – good tips. Dress lightly but cover up in the temples for sure.

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Travel Essentials Packing List for Asia

Woman in Asia wearing raincoat and backpack

Table of Contents

Travel Essentials Packing List for Asia: What you need and what you don’t

Guest post by Deborah Provenzale.

YOU’RE EXCITED FOR your upcoming trip – you’re backpacking Southeast Asia and/or South Asia! You’ve made your plans, booked your flights, and now it’s time to pack. The only problem is, how do you know what should go on your international travel packing list? Packing for travel in Asia, especially Southeast Asia, and South Asia including India, is different than other regions due to the combination of heat, humidity, traditional cultures, and challenging travel conditions.

After living and traveling in Asia for eight years, I’ve taken my personal experience to put together the essential travel packing list for your trip. I’ll share with you the backpacking must haves, including luggage, shoes, clothing, and gear, as well as the things you can either buy on the road or simply leave at home. I want to recommend good and useful products, and also warn against things you don’t need and won’t use.

Note on the affiliate items in this post: all items were hand chosen by Deborah or by me, Mariellen, and they have our personal stamp of approval. For India, specifically, check out my post Packing for travel in India .

What to Pack for Thailand and backpacking Asia: Your travel packing checklist

Travel backpacks and luggage.

Essential luggage for backpacking Asia includes a travel backpack. The first item on your backpacking essentials list should, of course, be a good travel backpack. I bought mine several years ago at REI in the USA, so it’s no longer available, but here are some things to consider and what I like about mine.

– Opens in the front instead of the top: This makes it easier to pack it like a suitcase and quickly find what you’re looking for. I like that mine also has interior mesh pockets where I often put my socks, underwear, and all the cables, chargers, etc. for my electronics. It even has straps on the inside like a regular suitcase so I can strap everything down once I’ve finished packing.

– Adjustable torso: It’s important that your backpack fits you really well, especially if you’re going to be using it for a long duration while backpacking Asia. The torso can be adjusted to your height, and there are several other points on the backpack that are adjustable, including the hip belt and top straps.

– Capacity: The backpack I have is 80L, which holds a lot. Nowadays, the range seems to be more around 40-60L to comply with airline regulations for size and weight allowances for carry-ons. I have had no problems carrying mine on while traveling all over Asia, but you definitely need to be aware of your backpack’s dimensions and how much weight you pack. My pack can definitely get heavy, but thanks to its great design, the weight is distributed onto the hips, so it’s super comfortable to carry and doesn’t add any stress to my back or shoulders – very important when backpacking Southeast Asia and South Asia

– Removable day pack: One thing I love about my travel backpack is that there is a smaller day pack in the front pocket that’s removable. The day pack has mesh side pockets for water bottles, it has two zippered compartments – a smaller front one for pens, keys, your sunscreen, and other smaller items, and a spacious main compartment with an elastic pouch for your laptop and space for notebooks, a jacket, or whatever else you want to carry with you.

– Lockable zippers: When shopping for a good travel backpack, make sure you find one that has zippers that can be locked together. On the one I have, the zippers for the main and top compartments have rings like on a suitcase that fit together so a lock can go through. Check out this post for more anti-theft backpacks . 

– Rain cover: When you’re backpacking Asia, especially during monsoon season, it’s highly likely that you’ll have some rainy days. To protect your clothes and items inside your backpack, you’ll need a good rain cover. One thing I like about mine is that the rain cover doubles as a protective bag for times when I need to check my bag for a flight. It keeps all the straps together and secure and protects from dirt and rough baggage handling.

There are many great backpacks for female travelers on the market today, so use these tips to find the right one for you. These are two of the best (note they come in different sizes):

Osprey Fairview 70 Women’s Travel Backpack  

Eagle Creek 65L Women’s Travel Backpack  

Carry-on suitcase

Perhaps you want the experience of traveling Southeast Asia or South Asia but you don’t want to carry a backpack. Then another option is to get an international carry-on suitcase. The brand I like is TravelPro. They have the Maxlight 5 line of suitcases that are the lightest I’ve seen on the market so far. They have a great warranty and are very good quality.

Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for a carry-on suitcase.

– Lightweight: Weight is always important when flying, but it’s more so with a carry-on. In Asia, there are many budget airlines, and their restrictions are quite strict. In my experience, most airlines will allow you to carry on a maximum of 7 kg (a little over 15 lbs) at no extra charge, but you have to pay extra if you want to increase it to 10 kg (22 lbs). More than that and you’ll have to pay to check your bag. So instead of wasting precious weight on the suitcase itself, opt for the lightest one you can find.

– 360-degree spinner wheels: This will make your life so much easier when navigating through crowds and maneuvering along uneven roads and sidewalks, all of which Asia has a lot of. Just make sure to get a suitcase with a good warranty and high-quality wheels as these are often the first items to break or get damaged while traveling.

– Fits international carry-on standards: Not all carry-on suitcases are alike. For domestic travel in the USA, the allowable dimensions are actually a bit bigger than those allowed for international travel. So check that your carry-on accommodates international dimension regulations. You can check the regulations on any airline’s website to be sure, and as a tip, when measuring your suitcase, make sure to include the wheels and handles. Travelpro has a specific international carry-on to save you the worries. Here are a couple we recommend:

TravelPro Maxlight 5 

Swissgear Sion Spinner 21” Carryon

Compressible packing cubes

Packing cubes are all the rage now, and for good reason. They really are travel essentials. Not only do they keep your backpack or suitcase organized so items are easy to find, but they also come in different sizes so you have just the space you need for everything from undergarments to shirts, pants, and even jackets.

The ones I use are the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes which come in a set of three – small, medium, and large, which are the perfect sizes to put my socks in one, underwear in the other, and shirts and leggings in the largest one.

The reason I love these cubes is because once I’ve filled them up, then there’s a second zipper that compresses the cube to save on packing space. They’re made of a strong, water- and stain-resistant fabric that is woven in a box pattern to prevent tearing. I’ve been using mine for two years, and they still look brand new. Plus, they come in a variety of great colours. Eagle Creek also makes great compression packing cubes.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes  

Eagle Creek Compression Cube Set 

Luggage locks and cables

When backpacking Southeast Asia and South Asia, you MUST be diligent in keeping your bags locked and your belongings secure. Due to the sheer volume of people, it’s a haven for pick-pocketing and theft, and all it takes is for you to look away for even a moment to then find that your bags have disappeared.

The best way to protect yourself is to lock the zippers on all of your luggage, even any small backpacks and bags you’re hand-carrying. In addition, when you can’t be near your luggage to keep an eye on it, lock your luggage all together with a steel luggage cable. I like the 4-foot cables because they’re long enough to thread through all the luggage handles and then wrap around something solid like the leg of a bus seat or any unbreakable poles or handrails.

I like these particular cables because they’re thick braided cable that is cut-proof, covered by a vinyl coating to protect against rusting and friction. It’s a set of two 4-foot cables, which is great because I always like to have a couple cables in case I need the extra length. The other great thing is that they’re light-weight and compact, so you won’t even notice that you’re carrying them. Just note that they don’t come with the locks, so you’ll need to buy those separately, and make sure you get TSA-approved locks.

Cable luggage lock and cables

Safety Cable

Good travel shoes are backpacking must haves

When you’re planning your packing list for Asia, one of the most important things is your shoes. However, you need to find a balance between having shoes that coordinate with any outfit and are appropriate for any function and not going overboard with too many shoes. All you really need are three essential pairs: light hikers, flip flops, and walking sandals.

One note is that it’s a good idea to have a pair of closed-toe shoes. The streets in Asia can be quite dusty and dirty, and there are times you might want to go trekking in places with grass or brush. So be sure to have one pair of shoes that covers your toes.

Flip flops Flip flops are a must for any Asia backpacker’s travel packing list and Reef is the best brand. Not only are the streets dirty, but you won’t want to be going barefoot in any public areas including swimming pools, beaches, and even showers at spas and hostels. It’s not that these places are totally disgusting and never cleaned, but just think about all the people going in and out coupled with the humid environment. It’s a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus like athlete’s foot.

Reef Stargazer flip-flops 

One thing to note is that when you’re deciding what things to pack for Thailand and other Asian countries, keep in mind that many hotels and guest houses will ask you to remove your shoes before entering the building. It’s also common in many other Asian countries like India, China, Japan, Malaysia and Indonesia. Often, they will provide you with some indoor slippers, but not always. So for these cases, it’s also a good idea to have a pair of flip flops with you that you can wear indoors so you don’t have to go barefoot.

Thailand rope sandals One thing you can leave OFF your Thailand packing list and instead, put on your Thailand shopping list, is rope sandals. These amazingly comfortable sandals are not only super cute and stylish, but they’re hand-crafted in Thailand. I bought a pair in Chiang Mai while backpacking Thailand a few years ago, and I paid only around $10 USD for them. I loved them so much that I took them with me everywhere I went while backpacking Asia. If you are backpacking Southeast Asia or Thailand, get yourself a pair. You’ll love them.

READ: The best Thai food in Thailand.

Deborah in Asia with backpack

Clothing packing list for Asia

As far as clothing goes, the list is short and simple because Asia is a great place to find comfortable, stylish, and inexpensive clothing. So when you’re making your backpacking essentials list, you can save the space and weight by going light on the clothes. There are really only a few essential items you need, and the rest you can buy as you go.

Long skirt and pants This is pretty much the foundational item on every solo female traveler’s packing list. Long skirts can be paired with anything, can be worn in any circumstance like visiting temples where bare legs above the shins are not allowed, are classy and comfortable, and they keep you cool in the Southeast Asia and South Asia heat and humidity. You can’t really go wrong with any type of long skirt you like. Just make sure it’s a light-weight and breathable material as some cotton skirts can be heavy for packing and take a long time to dry when wet.

It’s also a good idea to pack very light-weight long pants in a neutral colour – you can use them for hiking, trekking, or wildlife tourism and safaris.

Loose, modest shirts

Asian countries tend to be more modest than in the USA, Canada, and Europe. So it’s important to respect the cultures and traditions by dressing modestly. As a solo female traveler, it’s also in the best interest of your safety to not draw unwanted attention to yourself.

Hiking shirt  

Columbia long-sleeve travel shirt 

When I’m creating my international travel packing list, my go-to clothing staples include long, loose t-shirts, shirts and tunics because I know that they will go with whatever skirt or pants I choose to wear. They also layer well, are comfortable, and they’re appropriate for temples and other sacred places where bare shoulders are prohibited. Be aware that t-shirt material – jersey cotton – is very hot and clingy in humidity and never dries when you hand wash! It’s much better to pack breathable fabrics like light, woven cotton and wicking microfibres.

Biker shorts This is one of the travel essentials that only travelers who are experienced in backpacking Asia know about. “Why biker shorts?” you’re probably asking. Because after you’ve been walking all day in the heat and humidity of Southeast Asia and South Asia in a skirt or dress, you’ll start to feel some chafing where your thighs have been rubbing together. Do this day after day, and you’ll be in some serious pain.

Biker shorts – the sporty, moisture-wicking ones, not cotton – protect your thighs from the chafing. Wear them under any skirt or dress, and you’ll have the added benefit that if an unexpected gust of wind blows your hem up, you won’t have your panties on full display. They’re great for times when you’re actually riding a bike or scooter, too. Biker shorts are light-weight and form-fitting, so no one will even notice that you’re wearing them under your skirt or dress.

You can also try bamboo capri leggings, which are cooler than cotton, and can be paired with long tunics (called kurtahs in India).

Microfibre underwear

If you haven’t noticed a pattern yet, any packing list for Asia must account for the heat and humidity. Your underwear are no different. Cotton panties are not advisable because they soak up the sweat and then stay damp all day long, which can put you at risk for yeast infections. Microfibre underwear and bras, on the other hand, wick away moisture and dry quickly. They are also easier to wash as they don’t hold onto bacteria and odours like cotton underwear do, and they can be dry within an hour or two. ExOfficio specializes in travel clothes that wick away sweat and moisture.

ExOfficio bikini underwear 

Comfortable bras Much like your panties, bras can get sweaty and smelly, too, and depending on how much walking you’re doing, they can start to chafe around your bra line. After living in Taiwan and traveling throughout Asia for eight years, I tried many different options, but there is only one that has become my tried-and-true solution.

ExOfficio has some great breathable, seamless, and wireless bras and camisoles. The microfibre material wicks away moisture so you don’t get those sweaty friction points that you get with regular underwire bras. I like these, too, because they can layer as a shirt or even be worn by themselves. You just have to remember to cover up your shoulders if you go to any temples or shrines.

ExOfficio bra 

ExOfficio camisole 

Hat The sun can get pretty intense in Asia, so it’s a good idea to have some kind of cap or hat as sunscreen alone might not protect you all day long if you forget to reapply it. It’s best to get a wide-brimmed hat, and preferably one that can be rolled for easy packing without losing its shape.

Rain jacket Although it’s easy to find disposable plastic raincoats in any convenience store in Asia, it’s not a very earth-friendly option. Instead, opt for a light-weight, breathable wind-breaker jacket that’s waterproof. I love my Marmot rain jacket. It’s a nice colour, it packs down inside its own pocket for easy carrying, and it’s great for cooler evenings when a light jacket is needed.

Marmot lightweight rain jacket 

Mariellen wearing a kurtah and loose trousers in Bandra, Mumbai

Items you can buy in Southeast Asia and South Asia

Sarong One of the travel essentials when backpacking Asia is a sarong. Sarongs are versatile and can be used for many purposes. They can be worn as a skirt, a scarf, a shawl, and a dress, and they can be used as a sheet or light blanket for those cold flights and bus rides, or when you don’t want to sleep directly on the sheets on a bed. Don’t worry about finding a sarong before your trip, though. You can find these throughout Asia, especially in places like India and Thailand, and they’re super inexpensive and come in a huge variety of colours and patterns.

Scarves If you want something lighter to keep your neck warm or just want a cute accessory to go with your outfit, you will also find an abundance of beautiful scarves during your travels in Asia. Thailand is one of my favourite places to shop for amazing scarves at unbeatable prices, and the variety in India is mind-boggling.

Tunic or kurtah Kurtah means shirt in Hindi, but refers to a long tunic that is often worn with flowing pants and a long scarf – together, these three pieces are called a “suit,” “salwar kameez,” or “Punjabi suit.” If you need to be ultra-traditional, or if you’re going to a dressy occasion, wear all three together. Otherwise, you can just wear the tunic with jeans, leggings, or a skirt.

Read my post What to wear when travelling in India for more ideas.

Thai Elephant pants Thailand wins again with its huge assortment of elephant pants. Don’t know what those are? Just a quick Google image search will show you the fun, colourful, and comfortable array of Thai elephant pants. Want some comfy lounge pants? Need some new pyjama bottoms? Just want a comfortable, light-weight pair of pants to go sight-seeing in or to do yoga? I give you elephant pants. I bought so many of these on my visits to Thailand because they’re so comfortable and inexpensive. You can get these in India, Bali, and throughout Asia, where they are popular with backpackers. 

And speaking of the famous Indonesian island, here’s a great list of the best places to stay in Bali for your trip planning.

Jewelry In general, I don’t make it a habit of traveling with a lot of jewelry, but especially when backpacking Southeast Asia and South Asia, you don’t need to pack much jewelry because you can find it everywhere you go for really great prices. Thailand is a great place to buy silver, just make sure you’re getting the real stuff, Indonesia has a lot of beautiful wood and bead jewelry, you can find nice jade in Taiwan, Japan abounds with hand-painted accessories, and the bling in India is astounding. Every country in Asia seems to be known for its own unique type of jewelry, so leave the stuff you already have at home, and treat yourself to some new bling.

Read my post What to buy in India? For more ideas.

Travel toiletries list.

Toiletries is another section on the travel packing checklist that you can keep relatively short. You can buy most skin care, hair care, and cosmetic items wherever you go in Asia, and you’ll have no problem finding high-quality products, as well as products in travel sizes. There are still a few items, however, that I’d recommend packing.

Silicone travel bottles Instead of getting the cheap plastic bottles that end up leaking, breaking, and getting thrown in the landfill, try these environmentally-friendly leak-proof silicon bottles. This kit comes with four bottles for shampoo, conditioner, lotion, or whatever else you want to use them for, two toothbrush covers, and three small containers for creams, scrubs, or even pills all in a clear carrying case.

Silicone travel bottles

Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant Although you can easily find these products while traveling, I don’t know about you, but I’m picky about my hair care products and deodorant. So to avoid any bad hair days or smelling a bit riper than you would like, I recommend putting your favourite products on your backpacking essentials list. This is especially true if you are careful about what deodorant you buy.

Contact lenses & solution Being a contact wearer myself, and having really sensitive eyes, I always had a hard time finding contact solution when I was backpacking Asia. So before I go on any trip, I always make sure to stock up on travel size bottles of my preferred contact solution and more than enough contacts for each eye so I know I’m covered in case I lose or tear a lens.

One side note, however, is that in Taiwan, you can buy boxes of contacts really inexpensively without a prescription, and they had my contact solution, too. So if you’re traveling in Taiwan, you’ll be fine. I’m not sure if that’s the case in other Southeast Asian or South Asia countries, though, so it’s best to not risk it and just go prepared.

Mineral powder and tinted moisturizer Heavy make-up is not fashionable or practical when on the road, so you can get away with keeping it simple. When traveling, the only product that I could never live without was mineral powder. I had a particular kind that I liked, it was a simple, one-step process to make myself feel presentable, and it didn’t feel heavy or sticky with the heat and humidity. So if you’re a make-up wearer and can survive without all your usual products, just carrying some mineral powder and a kabuki brush will save you a lot of space and weight in your bag.

Another option is tinted moisturizer with sunscreen, also known as BB (beauty balm) cream. These can be bought easily in western countries – some great options include those by Aveda and Marcelle – and also throughout Southeast Asia. Tinted moisturizer, or mineral powder, and tinted lip balm make a great on-the-go travel make-up duo. You don’t really need anything else.

Aveda tinted moisturizer , note it comes in various shades, this is just one of them 

Marcelle BB cream  

Menstrual cup

Let’s face it, ladies, our cycles don’t go on vacation just because we do, but who wants to pack a big enough supply of pads or tampons to last the whole trip? Not to mention, pads and tampons create a lot of waste. On one hand, you won’t have a difficult time finding pads. Tampons are not as common in Asia, but I used to buy them in Taiwan and did see them in other countries. However, there’s another option so you can leave these unsustainable products off your travel toiletries list.

I’ll be honest, I’m a late adopter of the menstrual cup. I was grossed out by the idea, and I wasn’t sure how they worked. However, after finally having the courage to give it a try, I became a fan. I’m still not an expert, but I do know that it’s important to find one that fits properly and is comfortable. One that I like is the Pixie Cup. There are various sizes, but I like that the stem is small and round. The first cup I tried bothered me because of the rigid stem. I also like that for every cup you buy, the company gives one to a woman or girl in a country where having her period would mean staying in a hut and missing work or school. Other well-regarded makers include Diva.

As a tip, don’t waste your money on the special cleansing soaps that are promoted for menstrual cups. You could use them when you’re at home, but it’s not worth carrying the extra weight when traveling. At the end of your cycle, simply boil the menstrual cup in water, dry it carefully, or let it air dry in a clean environment, then put it in a pouch or small container to keep it clean until next time.

Pixie Cup  

Diva Cup 

Backpacking gear list

No international travel packing list is complete without the essential gear. From converters to drinking bottles that keep your tummy safe, these are the backpacking must haves.

Converter and surge protector

When traveling internationally, you definitely need a converter and I highly recommend a surge protector. After years of backpacking Asia, I’ve tried several different converters. Many hotels and hostels in Asia are now equipped with outlets that have the converters built-in. So all you need to do is plug your appliances or devices into the correct socket and they work great. However, it’s always a good idea to use your own converter and surge protector as you never know how stable their electrical systems are, and you wouldn’t want to risk frying your laptop, phone, or other devices.

Electrical converter  

A Belkin travel surge protector is a must-have item for charging laptops and smart phones. 

Portable Drinking Straw and Cutlery Set A lot of restaurants now are going away from plastic straws, thankfully, but when I was backpacking Southeast Asia, I still encountered many situations where I was served drinks with plastic straws. So to avoid these situations and to do our parts to reduce plastic waste, it’s easy to just carry your own reusable drinking straw.

I like this stainless steel telescoping straw because it’s compact, comes in its own small carrying case that fits on your key ring, and comes in a variety of fun colours. So no more forgetting your portable straw or leaving it behind because it’s too big and inconvenient. You can always have this one on you, and it even has its own telescoping cleaning brush when you’re finished.

It’s also a good idea to carry your own cutlery set to avoid having to use plastic utensils, which are still widely used in Asia. Bamboo is great because it is naturally anti-bacterial and is strong, so it won’t get moldy or mildew and will hold up to daily use over a long period of time.

Reusable straw  

Bamboo utensil set  

Laundry bags When going through your travel packing list, don’t forget laundry bags. You’ll undoubtedly be doing laundry when you’re on the road, and these bags can greatly extend the lives of your delicates. Personally, I like a mesh laundry bag.

Laundry detergent strips Instead of carrying more liquid with you and wasting valuable space and weight, use laundry detergent strips. You can get a package for 48 loads, and they’re light-weight and lie flat in your luggage. They can be used in any kind of washing machine, whether front load, top load, or high-efficiency, and they’re safe to use for hand-washing in the sink because they’re made of bio-based products.

Laundry detergent strips 

Mariellen walking through Rishikesh, India with backpack

Backpacking essentials list

Lastly, when putting together your international travel packing list, there are some absolute essentials you must not forget to pack.

Prescriptions Although medical care is quite good in many parts of Asia, and pharmacies are well-stocked, you might be hard-pressed to find a prescription medication you need. So it’s better to stock up on enough to get you through your trip, plus a little extra, just in case, so you don’t have to stress about your health while traveling.

Kleenex/tissue packets & hand sanitizer Tissue packets and hand sanitizer are the “never leave home without it” items you must carry with you at all times when traveling Asia. I can’t even count how many times I needed to use a restroom while backpacking Asia only to find that there was no toilet paper and no soap to wash my hands. So without a doubt, do not forget to take these travel essentials with you wherever you go.

Reusable water bottle and filtered water bottle

Instead of wasting money on plastic bottles, and contributing to the plastic pollution problem, I recommend getting a reusable bottle. One that I like is a silicone collapsible water bottle. It’s leak-proof, and it can expand to 18 oz. You can put hot or cold beverages in it, and because it’s collapsible, you can stuff it into smaller spaces like your purse or backpack.

You can also get filtered water bottles like Lifestraw Go, Grayl, and Water-to-go, and you never have to worry about your water source, or contributing to plastic pollution, again.

Read my Responsible Travel Products post for more ideas.

Lifestraw Go filtered water bottle  

Grayl filtered water bottle 

Water-to-go filtered water bottle 

Reef-friendly sunscreen It’s sad to know that while we’ve been diligent in protecting our skin from sunburns and ageing, we’ve also been contributing to coral reef depletion. However, the good news is that we now have more options, and they include reef-safe sunscreens. So when you’re deciding what to pack for Thailand and other destinations in Asia with great beaches, there are tons of brands and products to choose from. Just find the one that fits your required SPF, and if it’s too big to carry on in your backpack, squeeze it into one of your silicone travel bottles so you can hit the beach guilt-free.

Sun Bum reef safe sunscreen  

Mosquito spray with Deet Unfortunately, malaria and dengue are real risks in a lot of countries in Asia. While you can definitely find mosquito repellants in these countries, it’s not always guaranteed that they contain Deet, which is the essential ingredient for repelling biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Travel-size bottles of mosquito sprays and creams can be found in the travel products section of most stores, so grab a bottle before you head out on your trip.

Thief-proof RFID purse and wallet

We talked about cut-proof safety for your luggage, but what about for your wallet? As I mentioned, when backpacking Asia, you really do need to watch out for pick-pockets and purse snatchers. That’s why I love this Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag that I bought three years ago and have been traveling with ever since. The purse itself is cut-proof, along with the strap that can be worn across your body. It has RFID-blocking pockets for your passport and credit cards, and it has clips on the zippers as an added measure so thieves can’t easily get into your purse. The handle also has a clip so you can wrap it around a table or chair leg. This purse is so handy and is one of the backpacking must haves.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag  

Pacsafe Anti-Theft shoulder bag  

Pacsafe RFID safe wallet 

Ear buds, ear plugs & eye mask Whether you’re trying to catch a few winks on a bus or plane, you’re staying in a hostel dorm room, or you’re just a light sleeper in general, like I am, you’re going to want to pack ear plugs, an eye mask, and your headphones or ear buds. Asia is a noisy continent in general, and sometimes it can be hard to escape it. So it’s nice to be able to just plug in to some music to drown out the din, or to unplug and get some shut-eye without background noises disturbing you.

Quick-dry travel towel When you’re backpacking Asia, there’s never a guarantee that you’ll have a towel at every place you stay. If you’re staying in hostels, you’ll definitely need your own towel. However, there’s nothing worse than having to put a damp towel inside your backpack or suitcase. So make sure you pack a quick-drying travel towel. These towels are light-weight, compact, and the micro-fibre material dries quickly and is lint-free.

Quick-dry towels  

So there you have it, your complete travel essentials packing list for Asia. By following this list, you will ensure that you have just the items you need for a safe and comfortable trip without the added bulk of things you don’t need or that you can pick up along the way. Share your favourite backpacking must haves in the comments, and happy traveling!

Deborah Provenzale is a solo female expat, world traveler, writer, and life coach. Having lived in Taiwan for eight years, she utilized her background in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship to build an online business so she could be location independent. Now Deborah teaches other women how to escape the rat race so they, too, can travel, have more adventures, and have the freedom to pursue their dreams. Find out how on her site at DeborahProvenzale.com.

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The Ultimate Southeast Asia Packing List | What To Bring & Wear

Planning your Southeast Asia adventure but feeling a bit lost in the packing process? Overwhelmed with fitting everything into your travel bag? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! Packing for Southeast Asia, especially if it’s your first backpacking trip, can be a bit of a puzzle. The dynamic climates, diverse terrains, and cultural variations across Southeast Asia demand a thoughtful approach to packing. Lucky for you, this article is your go-to packing list guide for Southeast Asia , based on our own experiences exploring the region for years. This packing guide is for anyone up for a variety of outdoor activities , from hiking and swimming to navigating city life in Southeast Asia’s different weather vibes throughout the year.

The motto here is less is more , but traveling efficiently and lightly doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. We’ve put together this super practical Southeast Asia packing list to ensure you don’t forget a thing on your trip. We’ll break it down into different sections – from picking the right travel bag, and organizing and protecting your stuff, to detailed lists for clothing, toiletries, electronics, and other handy travel gadgets. Let’s make sure you’re well-equipped for the adventure of a lifetime!

*  Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Some golden packing list rules for Southeast Asia

Packing for Southeast Asia is actually surprisingly uncomplicated. Given the consistently warm and humid climate, your wardrobe will likely consist of lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable fabrics. This not only ensures comfort but also makes packing a breeze as these clothes won’t take up much space. Laundry facilities are readily available in most places, and in case you forget anything, local shops and supermarkets have you covered. However, there are a few items that might be trickier to find once you touch down in Southeast Asia. Depending on your planned activities and regions you’ll be exploring, it’s wise to consider some extra items.

Traversing Southeast Asia is much smoother when your backpack or suitcase is on the lighter side. This proves invaluable when hopping on and off various modes of transportation like buses, boats, trains, tuk-tuks, and ferries to navigate this stunning region.

Southeast Asia stands out as one of the most traveler-friendly continents. Many adventurers effortlessly roam these countries armed with just a handful of essentials and a reliable pair of comfortable shoes.

For your Southeast Asia packing list, keep these key points in mind:

  • Opt for lightweight, quick-drying materials as it’s hot and humid all year around.
  • Less is more. You will have to pack, unpack, and carry your luggage around in a very hot climate!
  • Laundry facilities are readily available in most places.
  • Bring a few sarongs, as you have to cover up your shoulders and knees when exploring temples.
  • Pack ample reef-safe sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
  • Utilize packing cubes for organized and stress-free packing.
  • Roll your clothes and arrange them side by side in your packing cubes to maximize space.  
  • If you’re moving around Southeast Asia, favor a backpack.
  • Avoid bringing luxury or valuable items.
  • Keep some space for the treasures and souvenirs you might pick up along the way.

1. Choosing the right travel bag

When it comes to choosing between a backpack and a suitcase for your Southeast Asia adventure, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. But let me tell you, from my own experience, I highly recommend going with a backpack . Southeast Asia is known for its uneven surfaces, rugged terrain, and plenty of stairs. Plus, you’ll likely find yourself hopping on boats to reach some of the beautiful islands, not to mention navigating through various modes of transport.

Trust me, having a backpack makes all of this a breeze. I started my travels with a trusty suitcase at 20, adamantly claiming I’d never go the backpack route. But after a few trips, I quickly converted to the backpacking lifestyle. It just makes everything so much smoother, especially when you’re racing after a bus or making a mad dash through the airport to catch your connecting flight.

Now, if you’re torn between the two worlds, fear not! There are convertible backpacks that can transform into either a backpack or a wheeled suitcase, giving you the best of both worlds.

Having explored most Southeast Asian countries over the past decade, and discovering all sorts of destinations, we’ve narrowed down a list of backpacks that we’ve personally tried and tested. These gems are perfect for carrying your ultimate packing list for Southeast Asia. Let’s dive in!

Our Recommended Travel Backpacks

Selecting the right backpack is a game-changer for your trip. So, when it comes to brand, size, and quality, choose wisely, you want your backpack to accompany you on many journeys to come! The gear you pack can make your journey a whole lot smoother. Remember, in Southeast Asia, you’ll be doing a lot of walking with all your gear in tow, so the size and volume of your backpack definitely matter . It’s essential to know how much space you’re working with before you even start assembling your ultimate packing list for Southeast Asia.

Now, when it comes to your main backpack, we highly recommend trying them on with some weight in person . We’re all unique, and what works like a charm for one person might not be the best fit for your body. Personally, we are big fans of the German brand, Deuter. We’ve been using their gear for years, and it’s never let us down. Good to know, Deuter offers both female and male versions of their various backpack models, catering to everyone’s preferences. We’ve personally experienced these bags as comfortable, practical, and built to last, so be sure to include them on your Southeast Asia packing list.

Woman Travel Backpacks

Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL –  Standing at 175 cm (or 5’7″), I find the 60L capacity of this backpack to be just right and in perfect proportion. Designed with the female anatomy in mind, it boasts a VariQuick back adjustment system, allowing you to customize the fit to your body. Plus, both the back system and the straps are generously padded, ensuring ultimate comfort even during long hauls. The integrated 10L daypack is a handy addition. What I particularly love is the dual access points – both from the front and the top – and the separate bottom and lid compartments. There is also a transport cover included at the bottom which doubles as a rain cover.

Osprey Fairview 55 – If you’re a fan of the popular American brand Osprey, you’re in luck. The Osprey Fairview 55 is tailored for women and offers an adjustable torso fit. It cleverly separates into a main backpack and a smaller, detachable daypack that can be either attached to the larger pack or worn on the front for easy access. The large front panel makes easy access to the main compartment. Need even more space? Consider the Osprey Fairview 7 0 for added packing room. And for those times when you’re looking to streamline, the back panel harness can be conveniently stowed away. 

Men Travel Backpacks

Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 + 10L – Moritz his backpack from Deuter shares similarities with the Osprey counterpart. It features a single, generously sized main compartment accessible from the front, offering a more suitcase-like feel rather than the traditional top-loading style. This design choice makes organizing and packing your belongings a breeze. Inside, you’ll discover handy side pockets and a dedicated shoe compartment for added convenience.

The exterior boasts a spacious pocket that houses the included 10L daypack with a comfortable, padded back. It can also be securely attached to the shoulder straps if necessary. The entire back panel harness can be neatly stowed away for easy transport, giving the backpack a sleek and streamlined look.

Osprey Farpoint 40 – A fantastic alternative to the Deuter for men. Like the Deuter, it offers a spacious main compartment accessible from the front, providing easy access to your belongings. However, it lacks the additional side pockets which can often be quite handy. We also observed that it doesn’t feature an adjustable strap system in the back for a customized fit. Just like the Deuter, it does come with a practical cover to neatly stow away the straps during transport.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 boasts a convenient size, allowing for a very compact travel experience. If you find yourself in need of more space, there’s also the option of the Osprey Farpoint 70L , which comes complete with an extra attached daypack for added versatility.

Smaller daypack for daily adventures

In addition to our primary travel backpacks, which typically hold our clothes and are checked in during flights, we each carry a compact daypack that accompanies us on board. This smaller pack is reserved for our valuables and personal items like laptops and camera gear. We also bring along one of the extra 10L daypacks that come with our main Deuter backpack. This often serves as a secondary daypack for hiking when we need a bit of extra space. When we’re on the move, our daypacks are carried at the front for easy access, while the larger travel backpacks rest comfortably on our backs.

Deuter Giga 28L – Depending on your needs, we’ve come to appreciate the 28L Deuter Giga for its ample capacity and well-designed compartmentalization, making it ideal for daily use. Once we reach a destination, it often becomes our go-to for carrying travel essentials like water and snacks while on the move. For a smaller option, take a look at this light daypack from Deuter .

WANDRD PRVKE 21L – The second daypack in our arsenal is the WANDRD PRVKE 21L , which we got together with their removable camera cube , tailored specifically for safeguarding our camera equipment. It has many discreet compartments to neatly store smaller items, including a hidden passport pocket at the back. There is also side access for easy retrieval of your camera while on the go, and the camera compartment opens from the back, providing a convenient overview of your belongings. Additionally, there’s an expandable section at the top, keeping personal items separate from your camera gear.

2. Organizing and protecting Items

Packing cubes.

When it comes to keeping your clothing neatly organized in your backpack, investing in packing cubes is a game-changer. This way you don’t have to dig through your stuff and create a chaotic mess just to find that one item. We allocate each cube for a specific category – whether it’s t-shirts, bottoms, socks, you name it.

TIP | Roll your clothes and arrange them side by side in your packing cubes. This little hack works wonders, helping you maximize the space within your cubes even further. 

Luggage locks

Luggage locks are an absolute essential on your Southeast Asia packing list to ensure the safety of your belongings while you’re on the move. They come particularly in handy in situations where you can’t secure your backpack in a locker, and they’re a must-have for air travel as well.

If you’re planning on engaging in water-related activities in Southeast Asia, like snorkeling or kayaking, consider adding a dry bag to your packing list. It’s a smart move to keep your belongings safe and moisture-free. This particular dry bag even comes with a waterproof phone case, which proves incredibly useful for capturing moments by the beach. All in all, a dry bag is a valuable addition to your packing list, especially considering the climate and occasional sudden downpours in Southeast Asia.

Backpack Covers

The same principle applies to your larger backpack – you will be happy having a rain cover to shield it from getting completely soaked. If you’re considering renting a motorbike to embark on the Mai Son Loop in Thailand or the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam , this addition will be a true lifesaver on your Southeast Asia packing list.

Anti Theft Bags

For an added layer of security, especially if you’re a frequent hostel-goer, consider investing in a Pacsafe bag. These anti-theft bags are purpose-built to safeguard your valuables and are often referred to as “portable safes” . The stainless steel wire mesh integrated into the fabric is highly resistant to cutting. Whenever we found ourselves in accommodations without door locks or safes, we’d stow our passports and laptops in it before heading out. Fortunately, we didn’t have to use it too often. While it’s a bit of an investment, it provides peace of mind, and we always bring it along. It’s incredibly compact, lightweight, and can be easily stashed flat at the bottom of our backpack.

Cross-Body Bag

We each also have a cross-body ba g that we carry next to our big backpack and a small daypack. This is to carry our phone, wallet, and other small things on the go and for easy access. Also handy to have for in the evening or if for once you don’t want to wear a backpack.

Carabiners are yet another handy addition to our arsenal. We make sure to pack a few every time. They typically find a home on our bags, ready to swiftly link them together, or secure items like a water bottle or a camera to our backpacks when we require hands-free convenience.

Travel Document Organizer

Personally, we’re a bit fanatical about the organization, so while this item may not be an absolute necessity, we find it incredibly valuable. A travel organizer allows us to keep all our crucial documents, including passports, boarding passes, and various currencies, neatly together. It streamlines the check-in process and ensures that all our paper documents are conveniently in one place .

Electronic Cable Organizer

If you’re anything like us, traveling with a multitude of chargers for your phone, laptop, and camera gear, this electronic cable organizer is a game-changer. It effortlessly fits into our smaller daypacks, providing a tidy home for all our cables, chargers, SD cards, and portable chargers. Say goodbye to the hassle of tangled cables; everything is neatly organized and easily accessible.

3. Clothes Packing List for Southeast Asia

Opt for light and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen when selecting clothing for your Southeast Asia packing list. Choose versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched and dry quickly. Steer clear of overly tight or synthetic materials that can feel sticky in the heat. Comfort should be your priority – leave delicate fashion dresses at home , as they’re likely to suffer wear and tear. The combination of sunscreen, constant packing and unpacking, and rigorous laundry sessions can lead to fading and damage to delicate fabrics. In most cases, you won’t need an extensive wardrobe for your Southeast Asia trip. Laundry shops are plentiful and will wash your clothes for just a dollar or less. 

That doesn’t mean you can’t rock fashionable outfits! Just keep in mind that Southeast Asia generally experiences warm and humid weather year-round . The exception might be if you plan on hiking in places like Sapa ( Vietnam ), Pai (North Thailand ), or the Cameron Highlands (Malaysia), where you’ll need some extra outdoor gear.

With the exception of the beach area, it’s crucial to remember that many parts of Southeast Asia are more conservative , and locals tend to dress modestly. When visiting religious sites, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees, so keep this in mind when choosing your outfits.

Below, you’ll find a suggested packing list for Southeast Asia, tailored for both men and women . Keep in mind that these items are just recommendations and may vary based on your individual travel style.

Southeast Asia Packing List Women

  • 3 pairs of shorts – Active shorts , Denim Shorts & Linen shorts
  • 1 pair of leggings – Perfect for the colder areas when you go hiking, but I also use these as loungewear
  • Hippie pants (buy those in Asia!) 
  • 1 long skirt
  • 3 dresses – two long and one short 
  • 4 tank tops or light shirts
  • 2 lightweight shirts with sleeves
  • Long sleeve baselayer – I usually wear this when flying from home, where it’s often significantly colder, and use it as loungewear for overnight train rides and hiking in colder areas.
  • 7 pairs of underwear
  • 1 Sports Bra
  • 2 Bralettes
  • 2-3 bikinis
  • Hat for sun protection, definitely if you go hiking to prevent heat stroke
  • 1 pair of sunglasses
  • 2 or 3 lightweight cotton scarves (in some fun colors) for covering up when visiting temples, often I also use them to protect myself from the sun when I am wearing a sleeveless top. We always carry one in our backpack as it comes in handy on numerous occasions, as well as a sarong or beach blanket!
  • 5 pairs of socks + 1 pair of trekking socks (we really like the ones from Falke!)
  • Lightweight sneakers (we personally enjoy the ones from Adidas)
  • Birkenstocks are always a comfy option to explore a town and go temple hopping all-day
  • 1 pair of comfy flip-flops
  • Fleece or hoodie – to be comfortable on train rides and definitely if you plan on visiting Northern Thailand (can be rather cool in the morning), North Vietnam like Sapa or plan on trekking Mt. Kinabalu in Borneo Malaysia.

All of the above fit into my Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL backpack divided over packing cubes. I highly recommend the roll-and-stuff method!

Optional items for women:

  • Lightweight Rain Jacket – We, personally, don’t pack rain jackets as we’ve never found the need for them. Whether or not you should bring one depends on whether you’re traveling during the peak of the rainy season. In our case, we usually opt for compact foldable ponchos or simply purchase disposable ones on the spot if necessary.
  • Hiking Shoes (lightweight and low cut) – The need for these depends on your planned activities. Everyday sneakers work perfectly for standard hikes. However, if you’re venturing into more intermediate terrain, it’s highly recommended to bring an additional pair of hiking shoes. I was immensely grateful for mine in L a os , where the landscape was rougher. Personally, I really like the brand Salomon , as they provide extra support, excellent grip, and stability on challenging surfaces like pebbles and gravel. Plus, these shoes are equipped with a GORE-TEX membrane, making them waterproof. You’ll certainly appreciate this feature if you encounter a sudden rain shower or find yourself in a muddy area.

Southeast Asia Packing List Men

  • 3 pairs of shorts – cotton shorts , linen shorts & athletic shorts
  • 1 pair of hiking pants – Moritz really likes the convertible cargo pants from North Face as they can be worn both long and short, also perfect for hiking in the colder areas.
  • 1 pair of long trousers (for temple hopping and cities, lightweight pants over jeans!)
  • 6 T-shirts, a combination of cotton T-shirts and dri-fit sports T-shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Cotton Shirt
  • 1 Casual sleeved shirt
  • 1 Warm Fleece or hoodie
  • Birkenstock Sandals , a comfy option to explore a town and go temple hopping all day
  • Cap for sun protection, definitely if you go hiking to prevent heat stroke
  • 1 pair of Sunglasses
  • 2 pairs of swimming shorts
  • 10 pairs of underwear (this depends on how long you are on the road, we packed 10 pairs on our 3-month backpacking trip through South East Asia).
  • 10 pairs of socks (can really recommend bamboo ones) + 1 pair of trekking socks from Falke

Optional items for men:

  • Light waterproof rain jacket – As mentioned, we don’t pack rain jackets as we’ve never found the need for them. In our case, we usually opt for compact foldable ponchos or simply purchase disposable ones on the spot if necessary.
  • Hiking Shoes – Moritz got these lowcut ones from Adidas for South East Asia, they are also with Gore-tex.

4. Electronics Packing List for South East Asia

On a personal note, we tend to travel with an abundance of electronics since we work while on the road. Our WANDRD PRVKE 21L backpack is fully geared with everything necessary, from laptops to external microphones. We understand that not everyone shares our passion for photography and shooting, and for those looking to keep their backpacks more streamlined, we’ve listed only the items we believe might make your travel easier and could be fun & easy for capturing your incredible adventure.

General electronics packing list for Southeast Asia

Besides the obvious as not forgetting your phone and phone charger, below are some other electronics that we personally always pack and make our travels more easier and pleasant:

Portable Charger / Power Bank

A reliable power bank for your phone is an essential item on your Southeast Asia packing list for on-the-go charging. Particularly during long bus rides or full days of exploration when you may not have access to power outlets. This specific portable charger from Anker provides almost 5 full charges for your phone.

Travel Adaptor

Don’t forget to pack a universal adaptor to ensure you can charge all your electronic devices during your trip. Different countries in Southeast Asia will require different plug sockets.

Kindle or E-Reader

While we have a deep appreciation for physical books, it’s not the most practical to lug around weighty volumes while backpacking. Opting for a Kindle or e-reader allows you to carry an entire library of books for on-the-road entertainment. Given the likelihood of spending considerable time on long bus or train rides, it becomes the perfect companion for passing the hours. The latest e-readers feature a glare-free HD touchscreen, making it possible to read in direct sunlight while also offering adjustable brightness and color temperature. Plus, many of them are waterproof, ensuring they’re always ready for unexpected spills or the occasional dip in the swimming pool.

Another entertainment item for those overnight trains is headphones . We love having a good travel playlist or listening to podcasts while on the road. I’m personally more a fan of classic headphones while Moritz these days prefers earbuds from Anker.

USB Flash Drive

While Southeast Asia is frequently modern and technologically advanced, there may still be instances where you need to print bus tickets or visas. We consistently carry an old-school USB drive from Sandisk with us because it proves to be quite handy in these situations.

Lightweight Laptop or tablet (optional)

While we strongly encourage you to immerse yourself in the outdoors and limit screen time during your Southeast Asia backpacking adventure, having a sm all tablet can be incredibly useful. Even before we began working on the road, we found handling emails, making bookings, and checking things on a tablet more comfortable than on a phone. Additionally, for some Netflix indulgence during our journeys :p, a tablet provides a screen size that’s just right. If your tasks involve travel writing or photo editing, a tr avel-sized laptop might be more convenient in this scenario.

Photography Packing list for South East Asia

While your phone may be sufficient to capture all those unforgettable moments these days, the following gadgets can add a fun touch to your photography packing list for Southeast Asia:

If there’s one item that will truly enhance your travels, it’s an action cam! We personally have been enjoying the Go Pro H ero 10 on our latest travels. Depending on the range of activities you have in mind—whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking—a GoPro is an ideal tool to capture your underwater adventures or any extreme environment where using your main camera or phone might be challenging. Its versatility shines as it captures both photos and videos, offering super wide-angle shots and even the option to shoot in raw format. While the GoPro can handle some water exposure, consider an underwater case for deeper dives. The compact size of an action cam is perfect for travel, but for hands-free filming, we recommend using a backpack mount to secure it to your backpack or another attachment .

Tripod or selfie stick

For solo travelers seeking to capture some self-portraits, investing in a versatile selfie stick that doubles as a tripod can add a fun dimension to your journey! Consider the Joby Gorillapods ; they’re compact, sturdy, and flexible, allowing you to attach them to branches or fences for creative shots. With various mounts available, they offer versatility for use with both phones and cameras.

As mentioned earlier, nowadays, you can effortlessly capture all your travel memories with your phone. However, if you’re keen on exploring photography further, consider starting with a budget entry-level model. We’ve always had a soft spot for Canon as a brand, you might want to check their entry-level DSLR model Canon EOS Rebel T7/2000D . For a lighter option, a mirrorless camera could be the perfect fit. If you’re just diving into photography, the Sony Alpha A6100 or Sony α6400 are excellent choices.

Always good to take a few spare SD cards for your camera, we personally don’t like deleting on the go and want to make sure we have enough memory space with us. We can personally advise the SanDisk Extreme Pro SD cards , and we usually buy ones with a minimum of 128 GB to be sure that we have enough space (also depends on whether you shoot in RAW). Lately, we also have been testing the Samsung Pro Plus Micro SD cards for our Go Pro & drone.

Drone (optional)

Undoubtedly, this falls under the category of a splurge item and isn’t essential. It will occupy a notable amount of space in your daypack. Nevertheless, it’s an incredibly enjoyable addition that provides a unique perspective of your surroundings. We have the DJI Mini 3 , a small and compact model. Before taking flight, make sure to familiarize yourself with the regulations, as flying these devices isn’t permitted everywhere. In 2023, it stands out as the smallest, lightest, and best-value mini-camera drone in DJI’s lineup. Not only is it the quietest, but it’s also the simplest and most fun to use. Moreover, it falls below the maximum weight threshold, eliminating the need for additional registrations, and making it a hassle-free choice.

5. Practical Travel Gadgets & Accessories

Listed below are a few more essential accessories that we recommend you take:

  • Bring a reusable water bottle and fill up at refill stations with clean water whenever possible. Alternatively, consider investing in a Life Straw or high-quality filtered water bottle from GRAYL that can turn any water source into safe, drinkable water, ensuring you’re never without a clean water supply!
  • Ziplock bags – these always come in handy to store away snacks or leaking bottles.
  • Elastic Bands or closable clips
  • Duct tape – we have used this multiple times during our travels!
  • Microfiber Towel – for at the beach or in case your stay doesn’t have towels.
  • Flashlight or head torch – useful on poorly lit alleys, or if you stay in hostels and need to find something in your bag without putting on the light.
  • Swiss army knife / Multi-tool – Make sure to store this in your checked-in luggage when flying, not your carry-on luggage!
  • Sleeping mask – Although we only started bringing this recently, it has been a game-changer for our sleep, especially during overnight rides or in hotel rooms that often lack darkening curtains.
  • Noise-cancelling earplugs – Same as the sleeping mask, but definitely recommend if you will be staying in hostels. The walls in Southeast Asia are thin!
  • Travel journal – Carrying a compact journal while traveling is an excellent way to reflect on your experiences and chronicle your adventures.
  • Waterproof watch – Moritz likes to bring a watch and this waterproof Casio watch in army green is just the perfect men’s accessory.

6. Toiletries Packing List for Southeast Asia

For added peace of mind, in case you’ve forgotten a toiletry item at home or need a replacement, most things are readily available in major cities throughout Southeast Asia . However, if you have specific preferences, such as skincare for acne-prone skin, it’s advisable to bring those along. Some items may not be as easily found everywhere and can be expensive, especially sunscreen. Additionally, be cautious about creams or skincare products that may contain whitening agents . Here’s what we typically bring, categorized for both men and women + items we both share.

TIP | We use travel-size containers for shampoo, body wash & lotion, etc. so we don’t have to bring the full-size bottle.

Products we share together:

  • Toiletry Bag – This is the toiletry bag we share together. In case I’m traveling alone, I use the following smaller toiletry bag .
  • Sunscreen – As a face sunscreen I can recommend Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion , and for the body Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion , both are oil-free, water-resistant, and reef-friendly. 
  • Mosquit o repellant
  • Wet wipes – keep these in your hand luggage, will often come in handy!
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Tissues – Always have some paper with you because a lot of restrooms in Southeast Asia do not have toilet paper. 
  • Travel Medical Kit – Carrying a first aid kit is vital for Southeast Asia! The high humidity in the region can easily lead to infections in cuts and burns, making it essential to address such issues promptly. Our travel medical kit includes bandages, plasters, sterile gauze pads, disinfectant, tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and a range of medications, including ibuprofen, paracetamol, diarrhea pills (loperamide), buscopan for abdominal cramps, and motion sickness tablets.

Toiletries Packing List Southeast Asia: Women

  • Refill Deodorant
  • Shampoo & Conditioner
  • Body lotion – if you have very dry skin like me you will want to bring a travel body lotion as this is also not easy to find in Asia and often holds whitening ingredients. You can also use this after the sun to moisturize.
  • Face wash & cream – I personally am a big fan of products by The Ordinary & Origins . Make sure to bring your favorite products, because again most facial products have whitening in them!
  • Hair Brush – Tangle Teezer Hairbrush for the win!
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Nail clippers & file
  • Feminine hygiene products & tampons (not easy to find in Asia).
  • Basic make-up: I don’t wear that much makeup anymore in general, and trust me in Southeast Asia it melts right off. So keep it basic, some mascara, eyebrow pencil, and maybe some concealer. One product I highly recommend is this tinted moisturizer with SPF from Origins , I wear it on top of my sunscreen, no need for foundation. Check out the following small make-up pouch .
  • Chapstick with sunscreen – don’t forget to protect your lips!

Toiletries Packing List Southeast Asia: Men

  • Body wash or soap bar – Moritz is a huge fan of this all-around soap bar from Foamie
  • Nail clippers 
  • Shaver/Razor
  • Toothpaste & toothbrush

7. Documents & Finances Checklist

  • Passport – stating the obvious here
  • International Driver’s License – this is a must if you intend to ride a scooter or motorbike while in Southeast Asia, your driver’s license from back home isn’t sufficient. Fines are really high if you don’t have one.
  • Photocopies of your passport – important in case of loss or theft
  • Cards – Debit, credit
  • Vaccination certificate
  • Cash Money – We always carry some euros and dollars with us; often, in major cities, there are exchange offices with favorable rates. Also, just in case you need to exchange a bit at the airport to pay for a taxi or bus fare.
  • A printed copy of your booking or stay – in case you don’t have an internet connection yet upon arrival and need to know where to go.
  • A printed copy of your travel insurance – to keep with you at all times in case of an emergency.
  • Copy of your emergency numbers
  • Extra passport photos – always handy for visas.

TIP | We also recommend scanning these documents and storing them online . This is very easy, e.g., with Google Drive or Dropbox. If you lose something or it’s stolen, it will be a bit easier if you can present a color copy of the original document for recovery.

Last Piece of Packing Advice for Southeast Asia

When you embark on the packing process, lay everything out on your bed . Personally, I like to envision potential outfit combinations, try them on, and consider the occasions for which I can wear them—whether it’s hiking, beach outings, city explorations, or temple visits. During my initial trips to Southeast Asia, I packed a suitcase filled with the 20kg limit, only to realize I didn’t wear half of it. With some strategic planning and packing finesse , it’s entirely feasible to limit yourself to the essentials listed above. Keep in mind that you’ll be packing, re-packing, and carrying your luggage around frequently in a very hot climate!

To give you an idea, here are the approximate total weights of our backpacks:

  • Large backpack: approx. 13-15 kg
  • Small daypack: approx. 5-7 kg

Consider getting some items in Southeast Asia:

  • Some clothing: Leave space for beautiful pieces you’ll find at night markets for just a few euros! Elephant pants, in particular, will become your favorites.
  • Tiger Balm: This magical cream is a must-have for soothing muscle aches (a holy grail among Thai boxers) and easing mosquito bites. Stock up!

Leave the following items at home:

  • Jeans: It’s too hot; you’ll never unpack these.
  • Laundry line: Laundry services are so affordable that there’s no need to bring your own.
  • Mosquito net: Most places provide them in the room, and mid-range hotels often have well-secured windows, eliminating the need for one.

Practical Travel Basics & Links

TRANSPORTATION | For checking and booking bus, boat, and train rides in advance, we recommend using the website 12go . This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, keeping in mind that peak season coincides not only with the best weather but also with festivals and local holidays.

ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Southeast Asia is a breeze with Booking.com . It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Southeast Asia on Skyscanner . We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility. Skyscanner’s filter system simplifies finding the most suitable flight, and you can stay updated on the best prices with price alerts.

TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Southeast Asia, consider Heymondo . It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link .

CREDIT CARD | When it comes to managing your money while traveling, it can be a headache! We recommend getting a Credit Card that doesn’t charge you extra for foreign transactions.

INTERNET | Secure reliable internet access for your Southeast Asia trip with Airalo . Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Southeast Asia, check out GetYourGuide or Viator .

VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality in the countries you plan to visit. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com .

Southeast Asia Packing List Guide

We hope this Southeast Asia Packing List guide helps you when planning for your exciting upcoming trip. You can show some ❀ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

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Travel Fashion Girl

Backpack or Wheeled Luggage for Southeast Asia?

Backpacking , Best Suitcases , Packing , Packing Tips

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

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Confused about whether you should take a backpack or wheeled luggage when traveling? Read this post to help you choose the best option for your trip!

Backpack or Wheeled Luggage

Travel Fashion Help! Reader asks:

“I was just wondering if you could help me; I am really torn as to whether to take a backpack or wheeled luggage?

I am going to move over to Thailand for a few months teaching English. From there I am unsure but I basically want to travel as much as I can – as far as I can!!! I am looking at doing working holidays everywhere / anywhere.

In the past, I have always preferred a rolling bag as it is easier for me to lug around. Also, I am a bit of a neat freak – I like things tidy and organized.

I took a big backpack with me a few years ago when I went for a 3 week holiday in Asia, and found my bag got very messy very quickly!

I also had to unpack everything every time I wanted to find something; however, that was a holiday – moving place to place every day or two. (Editor’s Note: this is the perfect solution for this problem.)

My upcoming travel I will be staying put for a month or so at a time. As I am also going to be traveling cheap, I want something that is going to be easy to take on buses etc.

Can you please give me some advice as to what you would recommend for someone in my position in regards to luggage? Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated!”

First, start by reading this article on whether you should choose a backpack or rolling bag . It walks you through the pros and cons of each one.

Then read this free downloadable guide on how to pack for Southeast Asia . Tourists on vacation in Southeast Asia are always quite a sight as they maneuver a massive suitcases for a two-week beach vacation. By understanding what you need you’ll avoid overpacking the things you don’t.

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

tourists on the narrow walkway in Koh Samui about to board the ferry 

As someone that spends quite a bit of time in Southeast Asia and has used both wheeled suitcases and backpacks my instant response is that a travel backpack is better than a wheeled suitcase for this part of the world.

Read this post to learn how to choose the best travel backpack !

Southeast Asia has so much adventure to offer that I’ve felt like I was constantly getting “off the beaten path” quite literally as can be seen in the image below.

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

getting off the broken path in Bali in 2013 with this convertible wheeled backpack

As you can see in the above pic, walking on a sidewalk might not be what you’re used to at home. While this road in Ubud was busy, it’s no where near as busy as some roads in Bangkok when there isn’t space on a sidewalk because it’s cluttered with food stalls, vendors, motorbike, and people.

Whether it’s Southeast Asia, Central America, or even Europe – be prepared to encounter various terrains. While Southeast Asia may have many unusable sidewalks the cobblestone streets in Europe (along with the many staircases) can also make it difficult to manage a heavy, cumbersome suitcase.

When choosing a backpack or wheeled luggage, keep these things in mind as you decide what type you will travel with as well as how much weight you pack:

No Sidewalks

Many times there isn’t a sidewalk available so you might find yourself walking on a road. When you’re dodging motorbikes, tuk-tuks, people, dogs, chickens, and whatever gets in your way then you can do this much easier without wheels to get caught along the way (especially in the busy streets of Bangkok or Saigon).

Uneven Broken Sidewalks

If there is a sidewalk you might find yourself scaling up and down the paths various heights. Most commonly, though, you’ll find broken concrete, holes, or rough patches desperate for repair.

This is much easily traversed without the need to lift and pick up or maneuver a suitcase around every few minutes. With a backpack you can just walk around it with ease.

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

Ubud is beautiful but the sidewalks don’t reflect that beauty

Unpaved Roads

In addition, roads may not be paved and your destination may lead you to a ground filled with gravel, rocks, sand, mud, dirt, or just about anything else.

One of the biggest cons of traveling with a rolling backpack was that whenever I actually needed to use the straps I was on the go and didn’t feel like stopping to get them out of their compartment. It was just easier to pick up the bag by the handles and quickly cross whatever it was I needed to cross.

While  some travelers love wheeled backpacks , I found that I never used the straps so it was better for me to just have the wheels and cut down on the weight. I ended up replacing my Meridian with the lightweight  Osprey Ozone 22″  and it was a good choice.

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

everyone’s luggage piled on each other aboard a ferry in between Koh Phi Phi and Phuket.

Boarding Boats

There are also many beautiful islands to explore requiring you to board on a ferry, speed boat, and more often than not a long tail boat.

You’ll have to carry your luggage on; sometimes climbing various flights of narrow unstable ferry stairs or walking on a makeshift tightrope-like wooden plank (no more than 12 inches wide). I’ve cursed the world every single time I’ve traveled with wheels on and off some boats.

As you can see in the above pic, I’d recommend you also use a backpack cover or a suitcase cover to prevent your bag from getting wet or dirty.

Size Matters

Wheels are not just an issue in this part of the world but you definitely need to be mindful of size especially if you’ll be taking local transport as a budget traveler. Seats are smaller and so is storage space if available.

Avoid bags over 65L max. If you can downsize to 35L, that’s the best!

Since I no longer travel with a backpack due to back issues, I dealt with the dilemma of choosing wheels that would work for the terrain (or lack of) that I would encounter in Southeast Asia or similar parts of the world such as Central America or even Europe.

Read this post on the importance of a healthy back for traveling!

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

Now if you do choose a rolling suitcase there is one feature that is most important! The wheels.

When you’re dealing with the types of terrain mentioned above, flimsy standard suitcase wheels just won’t do unless you feel like carrying your suitcase most of the time – but then you may as well use a travel backpack.

You want strong, sturdy, durable wheels that are made to last. Look for luggage that has “off road” style wheels with ridges and grooves made for rough terrain.

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

22″ Osprey Meridian |  22″ Osprey Ozone

I have to say I have been extremely pleased with my choices. First I traveled with the Osprey Meridian but then decided it was too clunky and even a bit too heavy so I traded it in for the feather light but efficient Osprey Ozone .

You can read my full comparison here !

I dragged these suitcases over anything and everything and refuse to pick them up unless I absolutely have to. Rocks, holes, even sidewalk curbs – these suitcases easily wheeled over them. Picking up my wheeled suitcase instead of rolling it can easily cause to much back strain and discomfort.

Trust me, I am cruel with my gear. I have to make sure it’s tough and I can recommend it to you, too!

While I am a loyal Osprey fan and absolutely love their products there are a few other brands that I’ve found that also feature sturdy wheels that would work well for the demands of long-term travel:

  • 22″ North Face Rolling Thunder
  • High Sierra AT6 Carryon Wheeled Duffle
  • 45L Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffle (shown below)

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

Patagonia Rolling Duffle Bag

As of Sept 2016, I’m using the Patagonia wheeled suitcase shown above because I’m traveling with all of my scuba diving gear (minus wetsuit) and my Scubapro Seawing Nova Fins  are two inches too long for my Osprey Ozone.

It’s a fantastic bag because it’s only two inches longer than a carry-on bag but it fits my ultra-light scuba gear PLUS all my clothing, toiletries, and shoes too! I surprisingly even have space to spare.

Rolling duffle bags are an awesome alternative to wheeled backpacks. Take a look at these top styles !

backpack-or-wheeled-luggage

the gear I’m currently traveling with: Patagonia wheeled duffle  & Jansport daypack

Ultimately, you have to choose what you feel most comfortable with. While I would prefer a small 35 L backpack for my Southeast Asia travels, I now use a 44L wheeled suitcase and it works well, too. You’ll get used to what you have and then get on with it.

Now that I’ve succeeded in traveling  luggage free , I’d even be able to travel with just my 28L Jansport backpack if I didn’t have my diving gear. On shorter side trips that’s all I’m currently using!

( My Jansport backpack is AWESOME by the way! Review coming soon.)

How to stay organized:

Staying organized in a travel backpack is just as easy as a suitcase if you have the right tools. As you see in this post, packing organizers enable me to pack and unpack in 15 minutes or less!

There is even one specific suitcase and backpack organizer that allows you to unpack in seconds. Learn more here!

My favorite organizers are these packing cubes. Watch this video to learn how to use them! When each of your belongings has a “home” in your luggage that ensures you’ll have a less stressful packing experience.

Whatever you do, just pack light!

It won’t matter if you have wheels or straps if your bag is too heavy. Read this guide  to learn how to pack light on each and every trip!

These tips are most relevant to budget travelers or those that plan to travel for an extended period of time. They may not apply to you if:  you don’t plan on walking more than a few minutes with your belongings, you plan to book private not shared shuttles, or you prefer to utilize taxis from point A to point B.

What type of bag do you prefer to travel with? Comment below!

For more tips on choosing a backpack or wheeled luggage, please read:

  • How to Choose a Suitcase
  • How to Choose the Best Travel Backpack
  • Backpack or Rolling Bag, which one should I choose?
  • Minimalist Travel: What’s in My Bag for 4-Weeks

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I hope you liked this post on choosing wheeled luggage vs a backpack. Please share them with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Alayna

Thank you so very much for this Alex! It is INCREDIBLY helpful – and the links to the other blogs are little gems of advice as well! After reading this, I have decided to go with the wheeled backpack… and definitely getting my hands on some packing cubes! Thanks again!!! 🙂

alex

Wonderful! So glad you found it useful Alayna! Happy travels!

Cheryl Rader

The Osprey Ozone 22 has a 10” depth. This is 2” larger than 60% international carryon size. Have you had any issues with that?

Emily

Whenever I’m in Southeast Asia, rain seems to be a frequent visitor. For that reason (and a few others) backpacks seem to work best for me.

Great point Emily!

Tania

Oh please will you get Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30? Just trust me on this, I have two of them.

I live in Southeast Asia so I know it will be perfect for your travel here. And the bag is great for neat & tidy freaks like me andknow you. The bag allows for great organization inside.

Thanks for the suggestion Tania! I’ll have to look into it! Thanks for reading!

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best bag for travelling asia

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The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

best bag for travelling asia

In This Article

Jump to a Section

  • Our top picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips For Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking in a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We tested dozens of carry-on backpacks and evaluated them based on traits like capacity, comfort, durability, and design. First, we tested the backpacks in our New York City lab and utilized our airplane set complete with row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins. We then took them out into the world for six months to further test each bag on a variety of trips. From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

  • Capacity 5 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Comfort 5 /5

The backpack has an unstructured style that makes it easy to pack clothing and accessories, plus a plethora of thoughtful features catered to frequent travelers.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

We think this durable Cotopaxi bag will remain in excellent condition no matter how many times it hits the road, as it was not damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed it onto the ground. The rubber texture also seemed easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found that it's the perfect size for long weekend trips and helps keep all of our items organized and easy to access. Both stylish and functional, this backpack can even be made one-of-a-kind by choosing the surprise colors option when purchased through Cotopaxi’s website.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Away f.a.r. convertible backpack 45l.

  • Design 4.5 /5

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Traditional

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

  • Design 4 /5
  • Durability 4 /5

Thanks to its clamshell design, it’s like a suitcase without wheels.

Some of the straps weren’t intuitive to use.

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is ideal for travelers who like the structure and sleek, minimalist style of a traditional suitcase but want the portability of a backpack. We love that this bag opens like a suitcase, making it easy to access everything inside. There was plenty of space leftover after packing the backpack, and the classic clamshell opening allowed for easy access to items in the compression-strapped main compartment and the zippered pockets on the inside of the front flap. All of the interior and exterior pockets, including the water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, are useful for traveling. You can convert the backpack to wear as a duffel bag or a briefcase, and it has a rear strap to place on a rolling suitcase if desired. The straps were easy to adjust, and it felt like the weight was nicely distributed thanks to the structured style of the backpack. There was a small scuff on the bag after we tossed it on the floor during our durability tests, but the contents of the backpack remained unharmed. When flying with the bag during our six-month testing period, we found that it easily fits in airplane overhead bins and under the seat. Overall, it’s a backpack with the features of a well-compartmentalized suitcase and much more.

The Details: 13 x 20.5 x 10.5 inches | 3.31 pounds | Polyester, recyclex | Padded laptop pocket | Convertible straps

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

  • Value 4.5 /5

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpack on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

  • Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack. 

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. 

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpack, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. 

The Details: 20-42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

  • Capacity 4 /5

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

  • Capacity 4.5 /5
  • Comfort 4.8 /5

You can choose from four colors to customize the shade of the front, back, sides, and straps of the backpack. 

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded.

Customized luggage can be hard to come by, but Roam’s The Continental backpack makes it easier than ever to build the carry-on backpack of your dreams. The front, back, sides, and straps of the bag can be red, green, black, or blue, or you can keep the backpack all one color for a monochromatic look. We were a bit worried about the light colors when we first got our hands on this bag, but after four months of traveling, is has no signs of wear and tear, there are no stains or loose threads, and everything is still in good shape. We were also impressed by the exterior pockets to stash headphones, snacks, chargers, water bottles, or anything else you could need whether lounging in the airport or mid-flight. The bag is made with a lightweight, water-repellent fabric and YKK zippers so it easily handles temperamental weather while traveling. Spacious and easy to access, the front flap opens wide so packing the bag with clothes and shoes was a breeze, too. The laptop pocket in the back could easily fit a 17-inch device, but it isn’t padded, so you may want to store your computer in a case to be on the safe side. 

The Details: 26 liters | 17.75 x 14 x 8 inches | 2.4 pounds | Water-repellent fabric | Laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

  • Capacity 4.8 /5
  • Comfort 4.5 /5
  • Durability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.8 /5

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

  • Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

  • Durability 4.3 /5

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best for Hiking

KĂŒhl eskape 25.

The 25-liter capacity makes this backpack versatile for an airplane or the great outdoors.

It takes some adjustments to get it to fit comfortably on the back.

This rugged carry-on backpack from KĂŒhl is the perfect option for travelers embarking on an outdoor adventure. The smaller size of this bag is its greatest strength since it can easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip, or you can use it as an adventure pack for day hikes or camping trips. There are a variety of thoughtful features for hikers including a stowaway hip belt for extra support while trekking, load-lifting shoulder straps, and the bag is made with durable TPU-laminated nylon. Plus, the chest strap slides up and down the shoulder straps so travelers can get the most comfortable fit for their upper body. We found that it takes some extra effort to adjust all of the straps for the right fit, but once you do, the bag is comfortable to carry for long periods of time. For even more versatility, the bag has a padded laptop pocket and a variety of other small and large zippered pockets to stay organized if you’re commuting or traveling for work. 

The Details: 25 liters | 20.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches | Waterproof nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This lightweight backpack has a sleek and contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.  

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to be best suited for weekend trips because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack. During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack for traveling with or without other pieces of luggage. There is a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag as well as a water bottle holder on the side and a front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With four earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences. 

The Details: 27 liters | 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On two separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 34 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight on how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was leftover as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space.

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes the majority of the team's "Travel + Leisure Trusted" articles. Anna owns several carry-on backpacks, including the top pick from Cotopaxi, so she combined knowledge of traveling with just a backpack and the thorough lab testing and real-world insights to put together this list of the best carry-on backpacks.

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best bag for travelling asia

IMAGES

  1. Our Complete Packing List For Southeast Asia

    best bag for travelling asia

  2. What to Pack for Southeast Asia? The Perfect Packing List!

    best bag for travelling asia

  3. What To Pack For Your Trip To Southeast Asia

    best bag for travelling asia

  4. Guide To Choosing The Best Bag For Traveling Japan

    best bag for travelling asia

  5. 8 Best Travel Backpacks

    best bag for travelling asia

  6. Carry On Bag Size For Airlines In Southeast Asia

    best bag for travelling asia

VIDEO

  1. Travelling South East Asia

COMMENTS

  1. We've Found The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling Around Asia!

    Osprey Farpoint & Fairview, Nomatic 40L, Cotopaxi Allpa 42L, and Osprey Porter are the best travel backpacks for traveling Asia. We've grouped our favorite backpacks by size. The first list looks at carry-on compliant models, while the second section looks at larger backpacks that must be checked in for your flight.

  2. The Best Travel Backpacks

    Osprey Farpoint/ Fairview (40-litre) - Overall Best Backpack for Travel Pros Clamshell Opening Carry On Compliant Includes Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee Cons The Water Bottle Pockets Suck Badly Placed Laptop Sleeve

  3. From Cities to Trails: The Best Travel Backpack for Asia [My Picks

    50-60 Liters: Extended Travel: A daypack in the 50-60 liter range comes with pros and cons but the biggest pro is that you have way more room for thick clothing if your travel to Asia involves a 4 season climate!

  4. The Best Backpacks For Traveling Asia [Make Your Trip Easy!]

    The best backpack for traveling Asia depends on several factors, such as your height, the kind of traveler you are, the trip you're taking, and where you're headed. However, there are a few things that all the best backpacks for traveling Asia have in common. This article will look at the 5 best backpacks for traveling Asia.

  5. Southeast Asia Packing List: Ultimate Guide on What to Bring

    Since Southeast Asia is made up of multiple islands and rugged terrain, we recommend choosing backpacks over wheeled luggage. Alternatively, you can also choose to get convertible backpacks which convert as a backpack or a wheeled suitcase.

  6. 19 BEST Travel Backpacks (for Adventuring in 2024)

    Seriously peeps, choosing which backpack to bring on a given trip is almost as important as choosing where to go. Your travel backpack will carry every single one of your possessions on the road and will become your home. You need your chosen backpack to be strong, durable, comfortable, and compact enough to save you some space!

  7. Essential Travel Gear for Backpacking Southeast Asia

    There are a few places in Southeast Asia that are cold (Hanoi/Sapa in winter immediately springs to mind), but there aren't many of them, so you'll want the majority of your backpack to contain lightweight clothes, preferably made of cotton. Try to choose neutral colors so that you can mix and match in order to maximize your number of outfits.

  8. How to Choose the Best Backpack for Traveling In Thailand

    Best thing about a good backpack is it doubles up as a pillow 🙂. Step 1. Choosing the Right Size Backpack. Some people travel super-light. I have a mate who turns up for a 60-day stint with a basic Jansport rucksack. He carries two changes of clothes, a laptop and a toothbrush and he's set. Not me.

  9. The Ultimate South East Asia Packing List For 2024

    Free Printable Packing Checklist. We have put together a 3 page printable South East Asia packing list for you, to help make your travel planning a complete breeze. It includes a checklist section for men, women, children and babies, as well as travel essentials and gadgets. Click below to get your printable checklist:

  10. Backpacking Southeast Asia Packing List: everything I brought for 3

    Steal my backpacking southeast Asia packing list - here's everything I packed for 3 months of traveling through SE Asia. Packing for three months in a backpack can be hard - let me walk you through it! ... Shop the best travel adapter; BUMBag. The last bag I brought, and arguably the most important, was my Lululemon Belt Bag! ...

  11. The foolproof packing list for Asia: 16 must-have travel essentials

    We recommend: Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 travel backpack Of course, the backpack you need will depend heavily on the size you require, however you cannot go far wrong with the Osprey brand. One such backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40 that opens like a suitcase.

  12. Southeast Asia Packing List (22 CRUCIAL Items for 2024)

    Nomatic Navigator Carry On Capacity > 37L Price > $400 Check Best Price Ultimate Packing List - Best Camera GoPro Hero 11 Resolution > 5k Price > $400 Check Best Price Ultimate Packing List - Best Rain Jacket Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket Price > $600 Check Best Price Ultimate Packing List - Travel Insurance

  13. What Size Backpack Do I Need For Travel?

    25-30-litres Best for
 A 25-30-litre backpack is best for city breaks and long weekend trips if you pack light. Some very light packers can get away with travelling indefinitely with a bag of this size but they are in the minority. Most long term travellers require a larger bag than this.

  14. Best Travel Backpacks 2024 Buyer's Guide (Tips + Top Picks)

    Best general carry-on by Marek Looking for a new backpack but feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry, I'm here to help! Based on what kind of traveller you are, let me guide you to the right backpack size, type, and features. If you're in a hurry, check out my top choice Peak Design 45L Backpack View at Peak Design What I know about this

  15. 10 Step Packing Guide for Southeast Asia

    Best Anti-theft Bags for Women; Are these Safe Travel Items Worth Taking; Tried and Tested Tips to Avoid Theft While Traveling . Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel! Travel Insurance: On my round-the-world trip, having travel insurance saved me $800 in hospital fees when I got a skin infection in Southeast Asia.

  16. Southeast Asia Packing List

    Southeast Asia Packing List: Clothing for WOMEN. 1 pair of black skinny jeans. 1 pair of Columbia zip-off long trekking pants OR Lululemon travel pants. 1 North Face lightweight jacket/fleece. 1 Light Rain jacket. 1 pair of black loose cotton pants. 1 light long-sleeved cotton shirt.

  17. 10 Best Travel Backpacks (2023 Buyers Guide & Reviews)

    The backpacks listed below have enough space to accommodate a sleeping bag, tent, and cooking equipment needed for typical trekking and overnight camping adventures, as well as your travel gear. 6. Gregory Mountain Zulu 55 - Adventure Travel Backpack.

  18. The Best Southeast Asia Packing List (plus what to wear)

    2 dresses, 1 shorter dress and 1 maxi dress. 1 long sleeved top preferably impregnated with mozzie repellant. 2 pairs of shorts. 1 skirt (below the knee length) 1 pair of gym-style leggings. 7 x underwear. 2 x bras. 1 x sports bra. 2 pairs of socks - you'll be wearing flip flops and sandals mostly.

  19. Travel Essentials Packing List for Asia

    Essential luggage for backpacking Asia includes a travel backpack. The first item on your backpacking essentials list should, of course, be a good travel backpack. I bought mine several years ago at REI in the USA, so it's no longer available, but here are some things to consider and what I like about mine.

  20. What Is The Best Daypack for Travel? 2024 Guide

    Stubble & Co Roll Top Super comfortable Weatherproof Excellent customer service Check Best Price Related: (links open in a new tab) Ultimate Gear Guides Best Backpacks for Travel Best Travel Backpacks for Women The Best Travel Daypacks 1. Cotopaxi Luzon Del DĂ­a 18-litre Pros

  21. The Ultimate Southeast Asia Packing List

    1 pair of Sunglasses. 2 pairs of swimming shorts. 10 pairs of underwear (this depends on how long you are on the road, we packed 10 pairs on our 3-month backpacking trip through South East Asia). 10 pairs of socks (can really recommend bamboo ones) + 1 pair of trekking socks from Falke.

  22. Backpack or Wheeled Luggage for Southeast Asia?

    As someone that spends quite a bit of time in Southeast Asia and has used both wheeled suitcases and backpacks my instant response is that a travel backpack is better than a wheeled suitcase for this part of the world. Read this post to learn how to choose the best travel backpack!

  23. The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    The 15 Best Travel Tote Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed . The 9 Best Mini Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed. The Best Away Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed.