PART 2 My Packing List: What I'm Carrying With Me On my Epic Journey Through Latin America
This section of my Packing List will detail what I am carrying in my smaller backpack as well as some information about the actual backpack.
DON'T LAUGH!! Yes, I'm carrying ALL that.
For Part 1 this is my list for my toiletries bag.
For more information on where I am going check out my blog Should I Marry the Kuna?
When I last traveled I had some eye opening experiences which I am very grateful for now because I have built on those experiences, better preparing myself for this long, epic journey.
Three years ago I was in Costa Rica on Christmas Eve at a bus station. My smaller backpack with my computer and other important items was sitting right next to me. As I sat waiting for my bus I was absorbed in the book I was reading. After about 10 minutes of reading I looked up and realized my backpack was gone. These thieves are skilled and are not to be underestimated.
After a bit of research I found that there are bags called Anti-theft bags. They come in all kinds of styles, colors and sizes. As far as I can tell, the backpackers seem to favor the PacSafe and TravelOn brands. Mine is a TravelOn but is already sold out and no longer available. They can be a bit pricey but I theorize the investment will be worth it. I chose a slim backpack style.
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Another NoTe: I'll be carrying Carabiners to hook my packs together while waiting in bus stations. This will halt the workings of quick and easy backpack thieves.
Features of a good Anti-theft bag:
- Zippers have latches to hook them shut, keeping thieves from easily sliding them open without your knowledge
- Contain special RFID fabric that blocks scanners and readers from picking up your passport and bank card info.
- Metal, slash resistant inserts in the outermost lining
- Slash resistant straps with fine metal cords built into the webbing so no possibility of the Slash and Run technique.
- Padded internal pocket that holds my computer beautifully
- Water resistant
This bag will be my "Go-to" bag that I will carry on the buses with my basics for crafts, reading, entertainment, power station and some snacks for the many road trips I expect to have.
As for now, this is what's going into my Anti-Theft backpack:
- Journal/notebook, Sketchbook and markers(I've already relocated the sketchbook and markers to my Osprey backpack), Pencils and pens
- Laptop and power cord
- Phone and power cords
- Spanish/English translation dictionary and a Spanish Verb book (The verb book has been relocated to my Osprey backpack)
- Earbuds, ear plugs, and a plastic toothpick
- Hand held flashlight and a head lamp
- Tooth powder and a toothbrush (I like to be able to easily get to this so I don't store it in my toiletries bag)
- Passport
- Bank cards
- Bluetooth earbuds and charging equipment
- Heal Your Bodyby Louise Hays book. This book is crucial for helping me with taking responsibility for all of my experiences. I am not a victim to injuries and illnesses but the creator of my own experience.
- Sleep mask (highly recommended)
- Baggie of tissues. Great for when bathrooms are ill-equipped.
- Canvas slingback purse. To be used for when I only want to carry only a few things. Garden of Eden business cards, Sharpie marker
- Money bag, cash, lip balm, lighter
Excellent post dear friend @loveon, I admire the adventurous people, it was a dream that I have never fulfilled, I appreciate all this data and your experience, I must admit that you have a very well organized handbag, congratulations and many thanks for spreading this post
When I was researching what to bring I really appreciated all the packing lists out there. Mine has its own unique purpose therefore needs to be broadcasted. Much gratitude for the support.
Thank you @nano2nd for your encouragement and support. I hope to continue to see your support and interaction. This is only the raw beginnings.