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The 2012 Digital Nomad Packing List (Holiday Gift Guide Inside!)

12/11/2012

in Travel

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Every year, I like to go through my gear and look at what worked, and what didn’t. I rarely change the gear I carry because I tend to buy long-lasting, robust gear (like my Deuter Futura 28 bag, which I first modeled in my Tim Ferriss 4-Hour Workweek video over 3 years ago.)

Since it’s getting to the end of the year, I wanted to share the guide of what I used for my travels this year. My biggest inspiration for gift posts is Tynan, who ironically issued his 2012 gear post today as well.

Below, you’ll see a video where I am unloading my entire backpack (in a hostel in Medellin), and talking about what I find important while packing.

Hey, download the PDF Packing List

I’ve gone ahead and packaged up the packing list in an easy to read PDF.

Download the Packing List Here — It’s pretty I promise. Special thanks to Arturas Petkevicius for making the PDF.

Otherwise, feel free to browse the list below!

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Table of Contents

  • Deuter Futura 28 Liter Backpack
  • MEI Voyageur Bag
  • Macbook Pro 13″
  • Macbook Pro Speck Case
  • External HD: LeCie Rugged 1 TB Hard Drive
  • iPad 16 GB with case
  • Trent Embassy iPad Keyboard Case
  • iPhone 16 GB Unlocked
  • Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Headphones
  • Panasonic RPHJE355A High Fidelity Ergo-Fit Inner Ear Earbuds
  • Canon VIXIA HF Video Camera
  • Lowepro Edit 110 Camera Bag
  • USB Hub
  • LiveScribe Pen
  • LiveScribe Notepad
  • Swedish Grammar Book
  • Slimmy Slim Wallet
  • Wrist Guard
  • Sonicare Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Nail Clippers
  • Multivitamins
  • Fish Oil
  • Headlamp
  • Earplugs
  • Eagle Creek Cube
  • Eagle Creek Compression Sack
  • Baseball Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Hair/Beard Trimmer
  • Scottevest Tropical Jacket/Vest
  • 2-3 Pairs of Travel Boxers
  • 2-3 Pairs of Merino Wool Socks
  • 1 Pair of Shorts
  • 3 Icebreaker Merino Wool Shirts
  • Travel Towel
  • Jeans
  • Garmont 9.81 Escape Running Shoes

DEUTER FUTURA 28 LITER BACKPACK

Description: This is the main backpack I use to travel. It might be smaller than your high school Jansport, but you’ll be suprised at how much you can fit. I traveled for over a year with just this bag. It includes a pouch that is perfect for easy access to your computer, and a zipper at the bottom for easy access to your important stuff.

Why carry it: You have to have a bag! This bag is a perfect carry on, and it’s extremely comfortable thanks to its aircomfort suspension system. In a pinch, you can use it as a pillow.

Caveats: It might be too tiny for some. When doing serious long term travel, I will often carry this and the MEI Voyageur bag as well.

 

MEI VOYAEUR BAG

Description: When I’m going to be traveling for a long time and need to carry a lot, I travel with the MEI Voyageur bag. Its size is the legal maximum for a carry on, so you won’t have to check it. The coolest part is that it zips out and converts into a backpack, so you can carry it easily—but turn it into a handbag when you need to make it a carry on.

Why carry it: Slightly bigger than the Deuter Futura, these two bags work well together if you want to avoid
checking luggage. Carry your large items in the MEI, and use the Deuter as your day pack, and you’ll be set.

Caveats: It is simply a large bag–so if you wanted compartments, you’re out of luck. Use Eagle Creek Cubes to compartmentalize.

MACBOOK PRO 13″

Description: As a digital nomad, our computer is our livelihood. I chose the Macbook Pro.

Why carry it: If you are working online, you’re going to need something. I prefer Macs, since they just work great. The Pro has been awesome for me, for over 4 years now.

Caveats: It certainly is heavy. Consider the Macbook Air if you are going to be doing an extended vacation.

MACBOOK PRO SPECK CASE

Description: A simple case that attaches directly to your laptop. Beautiful and simple—and you never need to remove it!

Why carry it: Keep your Macbook protected, without having to deal with continually unpacking your laptop from a case.

Caveats: After 1.5 years of leaving this case on, I discovered it had left some scratches on my Macbook Pro. Next time, I might get an InCase case instead.

EXTERNAL HD: LACIE RUGGED 1 TB HARD DRIVE

Description: Carrying a lot of data or recording a lot of video? An external backup hard drive will be extremely useful to keep your data safe.

Why carry it: The LaCie Rugged drive is very good at keeping your hard drive from breaking. It can handle a lot of shock.

Caveats: Although the data on my LaCie drives has never been damaged or corrupted, I have had some issues with the connectors on the back falling out. On the other hand, LaCie has always been great with their customer service and 3 year warranty.

IPAD 16 GB WITH CASE

Description: Completely useful everywhere you can find wifi and its lighter than a computer (even though you’ll see that I also brought my computer with me). There is a pocket in the Scottevest jacket above made just for the iPad, making it so you can carry it on your person instead of in your backpack. This makes it less likely it’ll break as well as keeping it safely close to you.

Why carry it: It’s a really easy way to connect when you find wifi, and its much more lightweight than a computer. Even if you bring your computer as well, you can carry it in your jacket, making it easier than pulling a computer out of your backpack every time you want to use it.

Caveats: It’s an electronic, which means there is always the chance it will get damaged. But if you’re careful, there should be no problem with carrying it around, especially if you have a great case for it.

TRENT EMBASSY IPAD KEYBOARD CASE

Description: It’s a hard shell case that protects your iPad and has a bluetooth keyboard attached. The stand for the keyboard and the screen are adjustable to three different angles making it super convenient for you.

Why carry it: Mostly to protect your iPad, but the case I used also has a keyboard, making it much easier to type and use when you’re on the go.

Caveats: It adds a small amount of weight to the iPad and makes it a little bit more bulky to tote around.

IPHONE 16 GB UNLOCKED

Description: I got my iPhone unlocked so I could travel anywhere with it and have it be compatible in any country. iPhones are incredibly useful not only because you can use it for wifi if there is any around, but as long as it is unlocked if you decide to stay in any country for an extended period of time, you can use one of their networks. Also, it doubles as an iPod, so you only have to carry around one device instead of two.

Why carry it: It makes it incredibly easy to have a phone as you travel from country to country. Plus, as I mentioned earlier, you can put all of your music on it as well and listen on the go.

Caveats: As with other electronic devices there is the chance of damage. Again, if you’re careful and put a good case on it, you should be good.

AUDIO-TECHNICA ATH-M50 HEADPHONES

Description: These are awesome headphones for either producing music or escaping loudness on a plane. Excellent sound quality and bass.

Why carry it: If you are a serious music lover, or do any work with video or music production, you’re going to want accurate sound reproduction. These studio headphones are excellent for working with sound. Plus, they give off that ‘don’t fuck with me, I’m working’ vibe.

Caveats: Are certainly a bit bulky, so make sure you need them before you bring them.

PANASONIC RPHJE355A HIGH FIDELITY ERGO-FIT INNER EAR EARBUD

Description: My favorite earbuds–I’ve bought at least 8 pairs of these around the world because I continually lose them. Has great sound quality, bass, and loudness, all for less than $20.

Why carry it: To keep yourself entertained with music while you’re traveling!

Caveats: As I mentioned, they’re easy to lose. But they’re not super expensive, so you can easily get another pair.

CANON VIXIA HF VIDEO CAMERA

Description: A great handheld camcorder, for filming interviews, taking good photos, and recording memories.

Why carry it: You never know when you’ll get to meet someone you’ve wanted to film a podcast with. So, always have a camera on hand.

Caveats: You might need some accessories, like extra batteries and SD cards.

LOWEPRO EDIT 110 CAMERA BAG

Description: A great bag for lugging your camera and accessories around.

Why carry it: I lost this bag, and destroyed my camcorder in the process. This thing will keep it safe, guaranteed.

Caveats: It’s a bit bulky, but it will fit into the Deuter Futura bag without any difficulties.

USB HUB

Description: A simple extender for your USB port–get four for the price of one.

Why carry it: The Macbook Pro only has two ports, which leaves a lot to be desired. I use this hub daily, to plug in all the devices I need.

Caveats: None, works great.

LIVESCRIBE PEN

Description: This pen records everything you write on your LiveScribe notepad and everything you hear. It allows you to replay what you wrote or what you heard by just tapping on the notes that you wrote on the notepad. You can also save all your notes and recordings to your computer and then you can share with others via email, google docs, etc. I did a full, in depth review of this pen on Hack The System.

Why carry it: It makes it very easy to transcribe your thoughts from your mind to paper and into your computer at the same time. You have the benefit of still being able to handwrite things, but the information goes into the computer without you having to type it in.

Caveats: It’s a little bit expensive, but if you’re writing while traveling it makes the entire experience that much easier.

LIVESCRIBE NOTEPAD

Description: This pen records everything you write on your LiveScribe notepad and everything you hear. It allows you to replay what you wrote or what you heard by just tapping on the notes that you wrote on the notepad. You can also save all your notes and recordings to your computer.

Why carry it: If you have a LiveScribe pen, it’s necessary so that what you’re writing can be transcribed into your computer.

Caveats: If you’re carrying more than one notebook it can add a little bit of weight to your bag.

SWEDISH GRAMMAR BOOK

Description: What are you doing traveling, if not learning something? I always try to learn a language, at least one per year. Because I’m learning Swedish, this year I’m carrying my Swedish: Essentials of Grammar book.

Why carry it: If you want a reason to talk to the hot Swedish girls at your hostel, this is it.

Caveats: Extra weight if you’re too lazy to actually learn while traveling. Loser.

 

SLIMMY SLIM WALLET

Description: It’s advertised as the slimmest wallet on the planet and it fits in your front pocket. Very comfortable to carry while wandering.

Why carry it: It fits easily into your front pocket, you can’t overload it with too many things, and if you do carry it in your back pocket it’s still comfortable while walking and sitting. Incredibly convenient for traveling.

Caveats: As I mentioned, you can’t put a lot of stuff into it, so if you tend to carry a lot in your wallet, this may not be large enough for what you usually carry with you.

WRIST GUARD

Description: This is for the constant computer user, like me, who has some wrist trouble. It stabilizes the wrist for you so you don’t injure it further as you continue your internet exploration.

Why carry it: If you have wrist troubles and you plan on writing or typing a lot on your trip, it’ll help lessen any further injury to your wrist.

Caveats: It’s really only if you need it, it can take up a bit of extra room where you could stuff an extra pair of socks if you wanted to.

SONICARE TOOTHBRUSH

Description: You’ll need a toothbrush to stay healthy. I’ve learned from experience that the Philips Sonicare one prevents cavities and is actually kind of fun. But, any toothbrush will do.

Why carry it: Real health starts from tooth health.

Caveats: It’s quite large, and might not fit in your Eagle Creek Quarter Bag.


TOOTHPASTE

Description: You gotta have some with you. Tom’s is the best and safest, although not the cheapest.

Why carry it: Keep your mouth clean.

Caveats: You can usually get this on a plane, but I’ve heard disaster tales where they weren’t allowed.

FLOSS

Description: I continually carry floss, although I don’t use it enough.

Why carry it: Apparently, daily flossing correlates with a six-year longer lifespan.

Caveats: My first ever box of floss is still with me. Use it!

NAIL CLIPPERS

Description: You don’t want your nails getting too long, do you? Bring along a pair to stay clean and pretty.

Why carry it: You don’t want to borrow clippers from that gross dude in the hostel, do you?

Caveats: This pair is cheap, but it might not be the sharpest. But whatever, you can buy these anywhere in the world.

MULTIVITAMINS

Description: Something to keep you going, especially when fried street food isn’t meeting your nutritional needs.

Why carry it: A multivitamin is good for you! I think. And you might not be able to find good ones in third world countries. So, go prepared.

Caveats: The container can definitely take up some space.

FISH OIL

Description: Fish oil is one of those supplements that you should definitely be taking.

Why carry it: It’s healthy and good for you, and though/expensive to find in other countries.

Caveats: Can be large. Consider combining with your multivitamins.

HEADLAMP

Description: A little sexy headlamp to impress the ladies in your hostel room while you are packing your bag at 4am to catch the 5:30am bus.

Why carry it: If you are the kind of person who is going to be moving around a lot, you might like these headlamps for difficult packing situations. But really, why wouldn’t you want to look this good?

Caveats: Honestly, I can count the number of times I’ve used this device (aside from camping) on one hand. Not really that valuable for hostel travel.

EARPLUGS

Description: Simple earplugs for getting some shut-eye on planes and in hostel dorm rooms.

Why carry it: Do you have trouble sleeping? You’ll love these. Simple, cheap, effective.

Caveats: You might want to get a case–these mofos will get everywhere.

EAGLE CREEK CUBE

Description: The Eagle Creek Cubes are excellent for organizing your items within a bag. I use it for my toiletries, but in the past I’ve used them for electronics, books, etc. Just don’t use them for your clothing — the Eagle Creek Stuff Sack will do the job much better.

Why carry it: You’ll keep your stuff organized much more easily. After a while, the color red will remind you of the bathroom 🙂

Caveats: There are a few sizes, and you might not get one that fits your stuff. But, try out a few and see which is right for you.

EAGLE CREEK COMPRESSION SACK

Description: This is a lifesaver — this compression sack allows you to stuff all of your clothing into one bag and remove the air, saving you 40-50% of the space that it would normally take. Without this, I would never have been able to travel the world. All for less than $20.

Why carry it: Without this, your clothing will take twice the size. Buy this and I promise, you’ll love it. No vacuum pump needed!

Caveats: The little yellow slider can fall off easily, but you don’t really need it to close and compress your bag.

BASEBALL CAP

Description: A simple baseball cap to wear as you travel. Easy to pack away in your bag or jacket pocket, doesn’t take up much space at all.

Why carry it: For sun protection.

Caveats: You will sweat. It will get dirty. I recommend a dark color so you notice it less.

SUNGLASSES

Description: Cheap sunglasses you can carry while you travel.

Why carry it: Tropical countries mean sunlight. Sunglasses protect your eyes!

Caveats: Since you’re traveling with only a backpack, they might break, but that’s why you buy the cheap ones.

HAIR/BEARD TRIMMER

Description: Depending on how you deal with your hair, you might want a trimmer or a razor. I tend to keep a goatee and a shaved head, so I actually carry a head shaver and a beard trimmer. However, you might want to bring a simple razor if you go clean-shaven.

Why carry it: Carrying your own trimmer/razor will save you a lot of money and time, rather than finding a barber in each city. Nothing like the feeling of a barber clean shave, though.

Caveats: Can be a bit bulky, and nothing is more embarrassing than when one of these bad boys runs out of batteries right in the middle of shaving your head–and you have to walk around with a half shaved face/head for a day.

SCOTTEVEST TROPICAL JACKET/VEST

Description: This jacket has 18 pockets, is incredibly lightweight and mesh-lined. Because it is made for tropical climates, it is very breathable, has zip off sleeves and packs into itself for easy carrying when you’re not wearing it. One of the 18 pockets will fit a Macbook Air or an iPad (or both)

Why carry it: This jacket is perfect for traveling. Not only can it hold your iPad, passport, phone, wallet, camera, water bottle, etc., you can zip off the sleeves if the day is too warm for the full sleeves.

Caveats: It has lots of tiny pockets that I found to be sort of useless. I ended up just using the big pocket for most things.

2-3 PAIRS OF TRAVEL BOXERS

Description: You’re going to need some underwear. Unless you want to carry a full wardrobe with you, I recommend you get quick-drying nylon boxers made by ExOfficio or Scottevest. Why? These guys are super quick to clean and dry. Just take them in the shower with you, wash them with hand soap, and leave them out for a few hours — or wear them right away for a super speedy dry. You won’t need to do laundry every few days if you use these bad boys.

Why carry it: These guys will save your life. Perfect for traveling, they are compact and quick drying, and don’t retain too much of a smell. I wear only this brand. The Scottevest one is even better because it comes with an iPhone and a Passport pocket. Use it to store some extra cash and valuables when you are in a precarious situation.

Caveats: None. You definitely want these.

2-3 PAIRS OF MERINO WOOL SOCKS

Description: Merino wool is the magic fabric for travelers. It never smells and dries extremely quickly. Believe me—you won’t want to lug around 5 pairs of socks while traveling, so stock up on a couple pairs of the good stuff. You won’t need to wash them every day.

Why carry it: Keep your feet from getting smelly. Wear Merino Wool.

Caveats: If you really want that sleek black or white look, you won’t get it with Merino wool. All the ones I’ve ever seen have a very technical gray/black color scheme to it. Often, I’ll bring a single pair of dress socks along for fancy situations.

1 PAIR OF SHORTS

Description: Is it hot where you’re going? Bring some shorts. I usually bring a pair of running shorts so I can exercise in them (and show off my Stanford Cardinal colors as well).

Why carry it: It gets hot, and you have to wear something.

Caveats: Most other countries don’t have the shorts culture that America has. Be prepared to be laughed at, for example, if you wear shorts and shoes in Italy.

3 ICEBREAKER MERINO WOOL SHIRTS

Description: Believe me, you want to buy these shirts. Merino wool will change your life, and make travel 10x easier. Icebreaker makes my favorite Merino wool shirts, and I use them almost exclusively. Check out SmartWool for some other options as well. I carry three types: a black 150 workout shirt, a Icebreaker Tech T Lite shirt, and a 200 Bodyfit shirt.

Why carry it: Merino wool is the magic fabric that keeps you warm in the winter and wicks away sweat in the summer (meaning your shirt stays dry, even after a crossfit workout). It has no smell, so you don’t have to wash your clothes every day. Or every month.

Caveats: Moths LOVE pure wool, and will sometimes rip tiny holes into your expensive shirts. But if this happens, Icebreaker will replace them for free.

TRAVEL TOWEL

Description: These travel towels are awesome. They are quick drying and super compact, so you can stuff them in the bottom of your Compression Sack or in your toiletries bag. I recommend the MSR brand over Eagle Creek, because it comes with a nifty carrying case. Also, spring for the extra large–it doesn’t take up much more space, and I guarantee you’ll be happy when you don’t have to reveal your naked body to everyone in your hostel room.

Why carry it: You won’t have space for a full size towel, but you probably will need one while traveling. So get this one instead.

Caveats: If you don’t let this dry completely, it will start to smell a bit rancid. So, make sure it dries or wash it thoroughly!

JEANS

Description: I can’t wear those funky zip-off pants anymore. Jeans are my staple — they look great and are comfortable. Of course, they are heavy and take up a lot of room, but that’s the price for looking so good.

Why carry it: You’ve gotta wear pants at some point. And jeans work everywhere in the world. Versatile, comfortable, and good looking.

Caveats: They are heavy and take up room, so I suggest you wear them while traveling, rather than packing them up.

GARMONT 9.81 ESCAPE RUNNING SHOES

Description: Stylish running shoes? Who would have thought? I love these shoes because I can use them for the gym or for going out at night. Comfy, and I got them for a steal. A little more expensive now, though. I recommend you find a pair of running shoes that suits you. Shoes will take up a lot of space in your pack, so try to find ones that you can use for walking and for looking fly.

Why carry it: What, are you going to travel the whole world barefoot?

Caveats: None. You’re going to need a pair of shoes, so get ones you know are comfortable.

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{ 28 comments… }

JC January 28, 2013 at 5:31 pm

I agree with bringing jeans. I avoided bringing a pair when I was planning my trip, then finally decided to buy one about 7 or 8 months in. I now wear them most of the time.

How often do you wash yours, btw?

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Kirk December 30, 2012 at 3:50 am

I’m still amazed that people can travel with such small bags. I’ve always been a light packer, but this is taking it to the extremes.

With that said, I’m definitely up for the challenge!

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Wil C December 20, 2012 at 7:35 am

Thanks for the list! Love seeing these things in summation so I don’t have to go searching for it myself.

Keep up the great writing.

Happy Holidays!

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Andrea December 19, 2012 at 11:05 am

Love the Merino wool and the Icebreaker recommendations! Was introduced to the city merino wool socks recently and are worth the price for such high quality. Great post, thanks Maneesh!

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YFAA December 16, 2012 at 12:11 am

Merino wool is amazing for when you’re traveling light and everyday use in general. It’s well worth the splurge!

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Gentoku December 13, 2012 at 1:38 pm

You indeed have a very short list of items. The only other thing I took on my trekking around India that rocked was a compressible travel pillow. It meant I could sleep almost anywhere I wanted and needed to. Plus I like to have two pillows when I sleep so it was handy.

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Tim December 13, 2012 at 9:43 am

Hey Maneesh, I liked reading this post. 2 thumbs up! I’m always trying to pack lighter and will check out the jacket/vest and that slimly slim wallet. Do you find the Garmont shoes more comfy than barefoot shoes like brands with Vibram soles (merril, New balance has them)?

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Regev Elya December 13, 2012 at 2:51 am

Awesome!

Listen to what Maneesh says about Merino wool. I’ve been traveling with this fabric for a few years already, and can definitely say this is the best fabric I have ever used for multi-purpose traveling. Worth every penny. (Cashmere has the same benefits, but is a bit more expensive)

Here’s my full gear list, for those interested:
http://regevelya.com/travel-gear/

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Adil December 12, 2012 at 4:31 pm

Great and timely post! I’m heading to Costa Rica soon enough, going the minimalist route, and been looking for a post like this. Thanks Maneesh!
-Adil

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Andre Fohlin December 12, 2012 at 1:14 am

Hey Maneesh!
I just saw that you have a Swedish Grammar Book in the list. Are you going to Sweden soon, or just want to improve your language skills? As a native Swede I would love to help you out if you have any questions.

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Jason December 11, 2012 at 7:57 pm

Solid list. I didn’t think too many people knew about the MEI Voyager. That’s my main bag it’s the best bag I’ve ever owned. It’s been with me to 6 continents, 40+ countries, and 35+ states over the past 4 years and aside from a little dirt and grime it’s practically like it was the first day I got it.

I’d also recommend this wallet: http://www.etsy.com/shop/slimfold

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George D December 11, 2012 at 4:53 pm

I actually own less than this most of the time, since I pretty much live internationally and don’t check much baggage. I don’t have any great issues with most of the list (issues of personal taste don’t bother me), I would suggest a nice shirt, since you never know when you’ll be invited to a cocktail party or official reception.

I do however want to say that a cheap pair of sunglasses will destroy your eyes. This is because while they block out the visible spectrum, they still let in UV light… and because your eyes think it’s dark, the pupils open to let in even more. Double the damage!

Use polarized lenses, or not at all. They’re not that expensive; you’ll start from about $40 up. Protecting your eyesight is worth the extra $20.

As for flossing, try doing it twice a day, in the most quick and basic way possible. I swear you’re more likely to get it done at least daily that way.

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Vikram December 11, 2012 at 12:56 pm

One bag for sure. I like Tim Ferriss’s Buy It There approach. The shopping run makes a good first day wandering/getting over jet lag. Two SIM phone so you can use a local network on long stays. Dr. Bronners for soap/shampoo/laundry/smelling like mint/hippie cred. One little bottle lasts a long time. Shaving oil, not cream. Tiny bottle lasts a month and conditions skin. I’m surprised a nice Indian boy like you doesn’t know Vicco toothpaste.

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JJ December 11, 2012 at 12:43 pm

Great list! Here’s a few options/alternatives I would suggest:

– Macbook Air 13″, it’s pretty much just as powerful (I use it for HD video editing, motion graphics, 3D work, etc..) but lighter and slimmer.
– Something other than a Lacie Hard drive. I’ve been editing for a decade and used hundreds of hard drives from different brands. The one that consistently fails is Lacie, including the ‘rugged’ ones. Don’t trust them (warranty is useless when you loose your work).
– iPad mini instead of full size iPad. It’s a perfect travel sized iPad.
– DSLR instead of the video camera, something like the Panasonic GH3, Sony NEX. These shoot even nicer video and take amazing stills. There’s a lot of new mirrorless cameras that are small and just as portable as the Vixia.
– Wristguard, this is a tough one but I’ve found all of my wrist problems have gone away once I started using a pen input (Wacom) instead of a mouse. Wacom tablets are hardly portable though, but there are a few pen mice that might work as well for travel. The pen holding wrist positing is much more natural and stops 100% of my wrist pains.

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Mona December 11, 2012 at 10:36 am

>My biggest inspiration for gift posts is Tynan, who ironically issued his 2012 gear post today as well.

Ironically? What’s ironic about it? How about incidentally?

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Arturas Petkevicius December 11, 2012 at 10:36 am

Thanks Maneesh!!!

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Bernard Vukas December 11, 2012 at 10:32 am

Agreed with minimalist travel, I carry mine in a single backpack as well! I also carry a Blendtec blender and some training gear.

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Annika S December 11, 2012 at 10:21 am

Totallly agree, minimalist travel is absolutely the way to go when travelling, both for quick trips & extended ones. My boyfriend is an expert at this, he travelled to Europe in the middle of winter for 4 weeks with just hand luggage! Personally, I’m getting better every time I pack, although as a girl I definitely find this a bit harder – I need too many clothes! When I (eventually) go on an extended trip, I will definitely look at getting some of those multipurpose clothes that don’t look awful: 6-in-1 dress, shorts-pants, and so on.
Thanks for sharing your packing list, I have to say I’d never heard of LiveScribe, and am intrigued. Do you find yourself using it often?

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Raj December 11, 2012 at 10:09 am

Icebreaker replacing shirts with holes? I was an ardent supporter of Icebreaker, even met Jeremy Moon. Sadly, the Vancouver store turned me away with my shirts that started to develop holes citing regular wear and tear.

I’d like to know who thumbs-upped your replacement…

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Vince December 11, 2012 at 10:08 am

Nice that this came out at the same time as Tynan’s gear post. So much gear post awesomeness all in one day!

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basti December 11, 2012 at 9:53 am

28l is possible unless you are photographer and travel with DSLR. Just small DSLR body + 2 lenses + small tripod and some filters and other necessary gear easily eats 2/3 of Deuter Futura. Im often using Gemma Marathon 35l and sometimes I have to carry DSLR outside the bag.

If you camp outdoors, the packing list gets much longer 😀 I bet 50l for whole week is quite good (including food).

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Chloe December 11, 2012 at 9:36 am

Welcome to being a minimalist traveler!

Here’s my pack list from a while back: http://blog.chloefan.com/2011/12/mexico-travel-pack-list/

Except I “upgraded” to a 10L backpack, which I use for shorter trips:
Bag: https://twitter.com/chloester/status/179928029747875841
Pack list: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=676100192652&set=pb.2103277.-2207520000.1355247285&type=3&theater

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kasimir December 11, 2012 at 9:26 am

Hey Maneesh,
Do you travel without a power adaptor or multiple adaptor with all those devices?

I’ve got one that can convert any power socket into any other, and it’s small.

when you have just flown into a new country and you need to charge batteries, what do you do?

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Susan December 11, 2012 at 9:21 am

This is a good list, I like merino wool clothing because it’s low maintenance, easy to wash & dry overnight and super comfortable in many temperatures. The one thing I pack for minimalist travel is essential oils, I have several that make up a compact first aid kit so I’m prepared for any ailements or injuries that might happen while traveling. The last thing I want to worry about on vacation is finding a walk in clinic, pharmacy or drug store.

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lavanya December 11, 2012 at 9:15 am

Good one .. keep sharing

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Brian Kwong December 11, 2012 at 9:09 am

Awesome, thats really everything anyone needs and more in one bag. The Tire Sandals = Priceless =)

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Matt December 11, 2012 at 9:01 am

Hey man,

Are you still in South America? Have been reading your stuff for a while and would love to meet up for some empanadas and business brainstorms. Hit me back.

Matt

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Brent December 11, 2012 at 9:58 am

On your headlamp… have you ever considered getting a new one? I know it’s expensive, but i am in love with my Zebralight headlamp. The light range is incredible and the range is from .1 lumens to 750 lumens. It fell with me into a freezing creek the other night and still held strong!

http://www.zebralight.com/H600-Cree-XM-L-750Lm-Headlamp-18650_p_72.html

The batteries are expensive at around $10 each, but they are rechargeable and I hear the Cottonpicker chargers are incredible for them, but I have yet to try one out 🙁

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