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 equipment is not about taking everything.
It’s about taking what is truly useful, for a long time, and in multiple situations. I admit that it’s quite complicated when you have a good wardrobe to make choices. But we started with 3 simple rules, pushing ourselves a bit.
The backpack: the foundation of everything
Packing your bag and gear is THE big step that solidifies a trip. 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 would need them.
To help you with this big step, here are our tips and the preparation of each of our bags:
It will hold all your belongings, follow you everywhere, and will regularly be on your back. A backpack should not be chosen lightly.
Our equipment: Examples of travel bags
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 with several travelers. I really like that the bag is flexible and not supported by metal bars.
In this bag, we find:
Clothing:
7x Boxers
7x Pairs of socks
3x Trousers (2 dress pants, 1 hiking)
1x Shorts
2x Swimsuits
7x T-shirts (including 2 sports)
1x Sweater
1x Raincoat
1x Cap,
1x Pair of gloves
2x Pairs of shoes (Sneakers and flip-flops)
Camping & Sleeping:
Useful Equipment:
Hydration:
1x Water pouch (2L, MT500)
1x Water bottle
A 35L front bag - Northface
Everyone has their own tastes, but for electronic equipment and important papers, I prefer bags that are water-resistant.
In this bag, we find:
Mathilde's Bag
60L+6L Forclaz Easy Fit - Decathlon
With bag organizers to better manage your belongings.
In this bag, we find:
Clothing:
10x Underwear (3 for menstruation, 7 "normal")
10x Pairs of socks
2x Skirts
3x Loose-fitting pants
1x Dress
4x T-shirts
6x Tops/tank tops
2x Thermal long-sleeve tops
1x Sweatshirt,
1x Fleece
1x Raincoat
4x Pairs of shoes (Sneakers, hiking, flip-flops, sandals)
4x Headgear (cap, bucket hat, scarves, headband)
2x Swimsuits
Camping & Sleeping :
Hygiene & Care:
1x Microfiber towel (Size L) - Decathlon
1x Folding toiletry bag (skincare, toothbrush, toothpaste, solid soaps/shampoos, razor, tweezers, mirror, nail clippers, files)
1x Hair kit (brush, combs, clips, elastics)
1x Makeup kit (essentials)
2x Medicine kits
1x Hygiene protection kit
Hydration:
1x Water pouch (2L, MT500)
1x Water bottle
Multi-Pocket Hiking Backpack Escape 500 (23L) - Decathlon
Everyone has their preferences for this part, but for electronic equipment and important documents, I like bags that are water-resistant.
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!
