The last step, the equipment!
Before leaving, we read everything. The endless lists, the conflicting advice, the overly full bags. We started comparing many sites to find the best gear, which would be lightweight and versatile, with a little aesthetic touch. So we conducted tests directly in stores: we prepared, tested, compared, and now we’ve tested everything in the field. That’s also why we’re writing this article, hoping it can help you if you’re looking to embark on a long-term trip!
The golden rule before listing
Good gear isn’t about taking everything.
It’s about taking what really serves you, for a long time, and in several situations. I admit that when you have a good wardrobe, having to make choices is quite complicated. But we went with 3 fairly simple rules, while pushing ourselves a bit.
The backpack: the foundation of everything
Preparing your bag and your gear is THE big step that makes a trip real. But no departure is perfect, we'll tell you right away: Yes, you will forget things (and that's okay)!
You will forget things because you already had a lot on your mind, or because you didn't know you were going to need them.
To help you with this big step, here are our tips and the packing of each of our bags:
It will hold all your belongings, follow you everywhere, and regularly be on your back. A backpack should not be chosen lightly.
Our gear: Examples of travel bags
The links refer to the equipment we have selected, but we do not earn money through these redirects.
Tristan's bag
Quechua Escape 70L - It is no longer available for sale, but alternatives exist.
I chose this backpack for its large capacity and because I saw it on several travelers. I really like that the bag is flexible and not held in place by iron bars.
In this bag, we find:
Clothing:
7x Underwear
7x Pairs of socks
3x Pants (2 for town, 1 for hiking)
1x Shorts
2x Swimsuits
7x T-shirts (including 2 sports T-shirts)
1x Sweatshirt
1x Raincoat
1x Cap,
1x Pair of gloves
2x Pairs of shoes (Sneakers and flip-flops)
Camping & Sleeping:
Useful equipment:
Hydration:
1x Water bladder (2L, MT500)
1x Water bottle
In this bag, we find:
Mathilde's Bag
60L+6L Forclaz Easy Fit - Decathlon
With bag organizers to better organize your things.
In this bag, we find:
Clothing:
10x Underwear (3 period, 7 "regular")
10x Pairs of socks
2x Skirts
3x Flowy pants
1x Dress
4x T-shirts
6x Tops/tank tops
2x Long-sleeve thermal tops
1x Sweatshirt,
1x Fleece
1x Raincoat
4x Pairs of shoes (Sneakers, hiking shoes, flip-flops, sandals)
4x Headwear (cap, bucket hat, scarves, headband)
2x Swimsuits
Camping & Sleeping :
Hygiene & Care:
1x Microfiber towel (Size L) - Décathlon
1x Fold-out toiletry bag (skincare, toothbrush, toothpaste, solid soaps/shampoos, razor, tweezers, mirror, nail clippers, nail files)
1x Hair kit (brush, combs, clips, hair ties)
1x Makeup kit (essentials)
2x Medicine kits
1x Sanitary protection kit
Hydration:
1x Water bladder (2L, MT500)
1x Water bottle
Escape 500 multi-pocket hiking backpack (23L) - Decathlon
After trying several on, I chose this model for its comfort, large capacity and excellent support. I also really like the fact that it has many pockets and that the top section can be transformed into a small backpack.
In this bag, we find:
Small tips before choosing your travel clothes:
Choosing clothing is essential to adapt to temperature variations (hot, cold, rain, or all three). Versatility is key: favor modular outfits, such as zip-off pants. Opt for lightweight: several thin layers (for example, lightweight fleeces) are preferable to a single thick piece for better climate management. Additionally, it is necessary to bring more underwear than the rest of the clothing, as they will need to be changed more frequently than t-shirts, for example.
Do you want to continue to learn about the best way to prepare for your trip?
We offer you three other articles related to preparing for a long trip. You know that you need to equip yourself properly for a journey of such duration, but you must also plan the administrative aspects, take care of your health, and anticipate potential problems. After all, it is better to be prepared for everything to fully enjoy your trip!
