BEFORE YOU GO…..
This page is there for those people planning their own crazy whacky amazing journies across the old world. What do I suggest to take, do before you go? Hmmmmmm, good question, I may not be the most qualified person to answer the question, so what did I take and how valuable did stuff turn out to be?
1/ Walkman and tapes.
Some may think there is no point to this, but when travelling solo I found this the most important thing one could bring. After a heavy day of walking, sight seeing and being hassled you can find yourself transported to walkman land – and all the problems you faced melt a way and that smile returns to your face. Remember to bring music special to you.
2/ Clothes.
Seriously overated. No, I’m not for a second suggested bring one set of clothes with you and that’s all you need. But they are a hassle and a half, and will take up the majority of your backpack space. So never take more than two of anything, (socks and underwear are the exception) and one pair of shoes only. (and one of sandles) Hat is good, floppy is best so ignore the daggy factor.
3/ Camera and film.
And never be frightened to take photos. Take a billion rolls if you like, you will regret it if you miss shots. Take photos of the people you meet too, V. Important! And don’t be scared to have photos of you in front of famous monuments – sounds stupid now, but on reflection, I wouldn’t have minded.
4/ Insect repellent, deoderant, shaving cream and other toiletries.
Yep. Need em, but go for roll on. You can use soap instead of shaving cream, and as the tube cream sucks majorly, I’d opt for the soap.
5/ Healthy stuff.
Hmmmmm. And before you go you’ll need vaccines. Don’t worry, they’re not too bad, but give 2 months before you go when having them. Malaria medication is horrible, I stopped after 2 weeks on doxycycline, and was instantly better and didn’t contract malaria. But you prolly should take something. If not, coils work well, and repellent is a must. The danger times are dusk and dawn, and mainly in rural areas near stagnant water. But I’m not an expert. For Trip 2000 I’m taking Larium, which apparently affects the brain. We’ll see how it goes, hey? Note that it’s mainly 3rd world countries where you’ll encounter any serious health risks.
Inn places like India, you really need to take a rehydration formula. The water in bottles is processed to make it safe, all the goodness is virtually non-existant. If you do get the runs, drink the formula and eat bananas. Well, that’s what I was told and it worked for me. Maybe bring some ‘stoppers’ like lomotil with you too – if you HAVE to travel you may need them.
6/ Books.
You’ll need a good guide book. I used Lonely Planet – but this isn’t an advertisement. There are plenty out there including Fodor’s, Let’s Go and The Rough Guide Series. Maps are always a good idea. And you’ll have time to read on that long train journey no doubt, so bring a couple. (only one if it’s War and Peace) In places like India there are shops that will swap books for you, so maybe you need only bring one if you don’t want to keep it. A great idea really……
7/ Bring an open mind and a caring heart, yet be weary of scams.
Yeah, sounds like philosophical b/s, but probably the best advice I can give anyone.
Well, if you’ve read this far you are now ready to travel. You need know nothing else. Okay, that’s a lie. Read a lot I guess.