Backpacks

Everything I've read lately gives the sage advice that you will be happier if you can take half as much stuff and twice as much money. The money is what it is at this point but we kept this firm in our minds when we bought our packs.

We decided to go for the smallest backpacks we could bare, and they are not yet fully packed and they are already almost full. This is going to be tough pickings to bring only the bare essentials but I think we will revel in the freedom if affords us. Being able to carry our packs on planes and buses. Not having to make a beeline directly to hostels and just not being so bulky we knock people over when we turn around. The 30-40L size backpacks is heavily recommended by Travel Independent a great site on travel.


We both ended up getting the same pack, a Deuter Futura Pro 42 pack from REI. Mine is blue, his is red. It's really comfy and the frame holds the pack away from your back which is a big plus if you sweat like me under exertion. There are a lot of compartments, on top and bottom, and one that opens between the two so everything is easily accessible. Also has a built in rain cover. I'm really loving it! But let's see after I've carried it a few months : )

Our goal is to keep the pack weight under 10 kg or 22lbs.