What to Pack for a Year of (Sustainable) Travel

Estimated reading time: 40 minutes

Written April 19, 2023 by:

Julie Navitka

Are you trying to plan a long-term sustainable trip? Whether you’re headed on a round-the-world trip, or planning on staying in one country or continent, deciding what to pack for a year of eco-friendly and responsible travel can be challenging! Living sustainably out of a suitcase doesn’t have to be difficult, but expert packing does require some forethought. Having traveled to over 85 countries, I can help you make sure you’ve packed everything you need and haven’t included any extras you don’t.

Jump Ahead:

Ultimate Packing List – 100 Ethical Travel Products to Put in Your Pack (includes product recommendations)

Determining Your Needs – Destination, Length of Travel, Climate, and Travel Style

Sustainable Travel Bags – Backpack, Duffel or Suitcase?

Sustainable Clothing – Sustainable Suggestions

Eco-Friendly Footwear – It’s a Tough Choice

What to Pack: Electronics – What Are the Necessities?

In Your Toiletry Bag – Sustainable Options

Other Travel Essentials – Don’t Forget Any of These Eco-Conscious Travel Accessories!

Important Travel Documents – You Can’t Leave Home Without Them

What Not to Pack – Learn From My Mistakes

Traveling Tips – Some Tricks I’ve Learned Over the Years

My Travel Experience – I’ve traveled to 86 countries so far!

Ultimate Packing List: 100 Things to Put in Your Bag

Here is my ultimate international travel packing list filled with eco-friendly travel essentials.

*This packing list is based on my needs as an active traveler on a year-long trip in various climates. We tend to stay in private accommodations with a kitchen and working space rather than hostels or hotel rooms.

**Please note that this list is not perfect for everyone, and you may need to make changes based on the climate of your destination, travel style, activity level, and luggage choice!

What to pack for a year of sustainable Travel

Determining Your Needs

Where Are You Headed?

Of course, no “one packing list fits all” solution exists because every trip is different.

Perhaps your personal preference, even with long-term travel, is to stick to the warmer locations (I don’t blame you!) In this case, you have more wiggle room when it comes to making sure you pack right.

Embarking on a long-term trip where you will experience all kinds of weather, from cold climates to beach days, means you’ll need to pack smart. Of course, all of my international trips have taken me from hot climates to rainy seasons to near-freezing conditions.

Because it is more difficult to pack for the second scenario, that will be the focus of this article.

What Kind of Traveller Are You?

What you like to do while traveling will also determine what kinds and how many things you need to bring. More of an easy-going, sightseeing, cafe-sitting traveler? Great! You can probably skip the type of gear, clothing, and accessories you would need if you prefer physically adventurous outdoor activities like hiking, camping, horseback riding, or white water rafting.

Since my partner and I like to do it all, and because this tends to be the scenario that is more difficult to pack for (lucky us!), this article and the ultimate packing list above will be for the all-around traveler.

How Much Stuff Do You Need?

The answer for me has always been far less than you think. Living out of a backpack or suitcase is all about living as a minimalist. As digital nomads, once settled into a new place, we both tend to wear the same thing daily while working online. Also, what you should pack for a year of travel will stay roughly the same as if you were traveling for a month or two.

On all of my travels, I’ve always been able to accomplish doing laundry (or having it done) roughly every 7 – 10 days. I use this as a guideline to determine how many of each clothing item I truly need to bring. As my friend and fellow world traveller, Georgina Bush of Geo and Bert puts it – “I usually pack less if I know I am going to have access to a washing service or my own washer.”

I am also always trying to reduce my water use, so I have a slightly longer leash regarding how often I can wear something before it is laundered. This will be a personal preference, but you’ll save room in your bag, money from your pocket, and water from being wasted if you adopt this habit!

Since I am a runner and hiking-obsessed, I get a lot of outdoor activity. It’s essential that I have enough socks and sports bras to change them up at least every few uses (yes, I will reuse socks more than once!)

Practice Makes Perfect

Why not do a trial run to determine what to pack for your travels? Set aside all the essential items you think you will need for a week or so, and then test them out. If you have the time, extend this trial to a month. You might find that you need something you didn’t include, and you might be able to reconsider anything that doesn’t get worn. Of course, you must consider the current weather and the season where you are currently located.

Sustainable Travel Bags

First, we must point out that packing lightly is the most sustainable for flying and fuel consumption.

Regarding sustainable luggage options, the type of long-term travel you plan to do and personal preference come into play (again!) You might hope to get away with just carry-on luggage to avoid unnecessary weight, spending money, or dealing with lost luggage at the baggage claim. Or, you might plan to max out your weight limit with checked luggage and a carry-on bag.

Because my partner and I both require items that enable us to work online, and we need clothing for all climates and activities, unfortunately, we used to fall into the latter category. For our next long travel, we are both planning to bring only a carry-on and personal item. Stay tuned to find out if we were able to manage it! *Update – we have now both pared down to one small backpack and one carry-on bag that fits all of our minimalist travel essentials!

Backpack, Duffel Bag, or Luggage?

But how do you know what kind of eco-friendly luggage to choose? If you plan to do any multi-day hiking and camping, or you know you’ll be carrying your luggage around quite a bit, you’ll likely need a suitable backpack. If not, you might opt for an eco-friendly duffel bag or suitcase. Honestly, those roller cases look mighty appealing when I’m wearing my big heavy backpack on travel days.

Eco-Friendly Suitcase

Opting for easy-to-roll luggage that’s sturdy, stylish, and eco-friendly? Paravel creates some that fit this bill made from post-consumer recycled polycarbonate, predominantly sourced from discarded water cooler tanks and CD jewel cases. This makes it strong, lightweight, and low-impact!

Paravel Aviator Set

The Aviator Set is a pair of carbon-neutral suitcases, including the Aviator Grand (77 liters, checked luggage) and the Aviator Carry-On (43.7 liters). They can be bought separately as well. Paravel makes all kinds of sustainable luggage, totes, backpacks, duffels, handbags, packing cubes, and other travel accessories.

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Best Backpack or Durable Duffle

Need something you can strap onto your back and carry around while you wander? The biggest choice you must make here is whether you need something so large that you must check it. If you pack smart, you can get away without checking a bag. Most airlines have a carry-on limit that allows luggage measuring up to a maximum of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. In terms of volume, backpacks that are 40 to 45 liters, sometimes up to 50 liters, will be accepted.

Osprey Talon 44 Pack – Men’s

Explore around the world to strange countries with ease with this green travel bag containing recycled materials that meet the bluesign® criteria. Also available in Osprey Tempest 40 Pack for women.

Check it Out!

If you are still deciding whether to buy new, for maximum sustainability, you can also try buying second-hand from REI’s Resupply site. They will also accept your gear for trade in exchange for an REI gift card.

Sustainable Day Bag or Pack

I hate carrying a purse. I find them cumbersome and uncomfortable, not to mention they don’t hold as much as a backpack can. However, sometimes wearing a backpack doesn’t make sense – like going out for a nice meal at a fancy restaurant, for example. I definitely made the wrong choice regarding my day bags on this trip.

As a carry-on bag or one to wear on longer walks or day hikes, a good option is the Zero Waste EcoSmart® Backpack by Targus.

For casual strolls or more “formal” activities, travelers have never been happier for the fanny pack to come back in style! I hope to get myself this crossbody bag (or something like it!) for my next trip.

The Casual Sling by Rothy’s

Featuring a pouch-like shape and an adjustable, detachable strap, this bag is also available in Sangria Stripe, Marshmallow, and Toffee Stripe. The Casual Sling is made with soft, lightweight hemp and approximately 106 grams of ocean-bound marine plastic.

In 2023, Rothy’s factory achieved TRUE Platinum certification, validating that it’s operating with zero waste practices by diverting solid waste from landfill, incineration and the environment.

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what to pack for a year of travel: Sustainable Clothing

As someone who doesn’t typically follow the trends, I usually include items on my packing list for functionality, not fashion sense. I have no issue wearing the same clothes day after day, as long as they are (semi) clean and comfortable. When it comes to making sustainable clothing choices, comfort is key. If you take anything else away from this article, let it be that. If it’s not comfortable, you won’t wear it.

Honestly, I’ve always wondered how so many other people on a long-term trip manage to look cute and chic. I think it might be because they don’t sweat as much as I do!

Undergarments and Other Clothing Essentials

How many pairs of underwear and socks to bring can be determined by the expectation of doing laundry every 7 to 10 days. I always bring a variety of kinds of socks and underwear as well, so I have what I need for every activity and outfit. A good pair of wool socks is likely a good idea too. As far as bras go, comfort is important to me, so I always bring a couple of low-impact sports bras for everyday wear and hiking, one “traditional” underwire bra to wear with tank tops or dresses, and two running bras (which you can skip if you don’t need high-impact support!)

Organic Underwear from MATE

MATE creates comfortable, eco-friendly undergarments and lounge wear, made from organic cotton, Tencell Lyocell, and other sustainable materials.

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There is a good chance that you will need a rain jacket, or at the very least a good, water-resistant one. Even if you don’t encounter rainy weather, a rain jacket can provide warmth and wind protection on those chillier days or in the evening. Opt for one with a hood and lots of pockets if you can. One thing I love about wearing my rain jacket is that I don’t have to carry a bag for all my stuff!

Don’t forget your bathing suit! Even if you’re not headed to beachy locations, you will likely need a swimsuit at some point. Kyle and I have yet to lay on a beach in our six months in South America, but we’ve needed suits for river swimming and a thermal spa. If you know you’ll don the swimwear often, feel free to bring two pairs!

The Minimalist Suit by Londre

Londre swimsuits are made ethically in Vancouver, Canada, from recycled plastic bottles. They have all kinds of beachwear and comfortable loungewear. I also love that they are women-led and the diversity of their product models!

Take a Look!

Everyday Wear – On Top

The smartest way to pack light for every kind of climate is to bring layers. Lightweight eco-friendly gear is the way to go. Lugging along a heavy jacket or snow pants that you’ll rarely use isn’t the best idea.

Regardless of where you’re headed, there are some items you will need to add to your packing list. T-shirts and tank tops are some of these items, whether you’re visiting somewhere with hot or cold weather. T-shirts and tanks can be worn as a base layer or indoors when it’s cold outside, to sleep, and for exercise or other outdoor activities. I recommend that at least one of these be moisture-wicking and quick dry, more if you are fairly active.

Short Sleeve V-Neck by the Classic T-shirt Company

This classic tee is available in men’s and women’s and comes in a choice of over a dozen colors. Handcrafted in California with 100% organic cotton that’s sustainably sourced.

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You’ll also likely need at least a couple of long-sleeved shirts. Unless you’re headed to a tropical paradise where it never dips below very warm, you’ll be glad you packed this item. If you plan to wear this as a sweaty activity shirt, I suggest bringing one that is wicking and quick-dry.

Painswick Bamboo Training Top by BAM

This lightweight and absorbent jersey has a concealed left hip pocket and reflective morse code design across the left chest. It is made with 68% Bamboo Viscose, 28% Organic Cotton, and 4% Elastane. Comes in black and pear colours.

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Now do you need a sweater or an “everyday” jacket? This will come down to the climate and how often you truly think you’ll need it. I brought a jean jacket with me on this round, and I regret it a little bit because the rain jacket I brought would have sufficed. Be honest with yourself about the practicality of what you’re considering bringing.

Everyday Wear – On the Bottom

Regarding the bottom half of your body, you’ll likely need some combination of shorts and long pants. How many and which type of each will be determined by your activities and, of course, the climate of your destinations. I have found three pairs of casual shorts and two pairs of running/hiking shorts serve me well. At least one pair of comfortable, multi-use pants is a must-have. I also include one pair of comfortable pants for those cold weather spots that I can wear casually or while running or hiking.

Kotn’s Unisex Flow Trousers

I will look more closely at these next time we visit home! Made from lyocell micro twill – a drapey and breathable fabric made from renewable wood pulp fibers.

These versatile pants are crafted in Portugal with certified OEKO-TEX® non-toxic dyes and natural fibers. Every order from this Certified B Corp comes in reusable tote. Also available in Oasis and Dusty Violet.

Check Them Out Now!

Everyday Wear – Everything Else

Aside from your typical tops and bottoms, there are a few other recommended items that you can use to clothe yourself comfortably. If you plan to hit the beach, stroll the streets, or go out for a nice meal, you might want something adaptable for many scenarios. A travel dress or loose flowy skirt might work well for this purpose. I’ve also found that a square scarf or sarong has come in handy in many situations where I needed coverage, warmth, or even something to act as a beach or picnic blanket!

Easy to Love Midi Dress by The Good Tee

After three international trips with my go-to travel dress, I decided it was time to switch it up and bought this one! I love that this midi dress by The Good Tee fair-trade certified and it is super comfortable.

With nothing but five-star reviews for a good reason, it’s made from certified organic cotton and eco-friendly dyes certified by GOTS. Premium yarns are knit to the highest standards creating durable fabrics that last and resist holes.

Use code TGTANDSS for 10% off!

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Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Footwear

Deciding which footwear to pack has always been an incredibly difficult choice for me. If you are active and hope to explore the outdoors, you’ll need a good pair of sustainable hiking boots or shoes. Kyle and I opt for trail runners for their versatility, easily going from street to trail. You might opt for some sustainable walking shoes if you’re not planning to hit more rugged terrain than the cobblestone streets.

Travel sandals are also always a must-have for me. Although flip-flops are lightweight, they aren’t suitable for walking long distances or anything more adventurous than a casual stroll. This is why I’ve switched to a sandal that straps on and has good support. The bonus is that you can wear them in the water without losing them. Having just one pair of sandals will save room and weight in your bag. Trust me, it is possible to find an eco-friendly sandal like this that’s actually stylish!

Midform Universal Sandal by Teva

These classic travel sandals come in many colors and feature quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable, verifiable REPREVE® polyester yarn by Unifi®. These are built to last and are also available in a non-vegan version made with LWT-certified leather. Available in men’s and women’s. Teva sandals are also recyclable through the TevaForever recycling program.

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Eco-conscious travel technology

Regardless of your reason for traveling, you will need your cell phone. Because I only upgrade my phone if it is damaged beyond repair, I don’t worry about anyone wanting to steal it! If you have the newest, most expensive version available, make sure you take extra precautions with it in some cities. You’ll also want a good, eco-friendly case for your phone – if you’re anything like me, your phone will go through some pretty rough stuff!

Eco-Friendly Phones Cases by Pela

A good sustainable option is a case from Pela, which are the world’s first biodegradable phone cases and are heavy metals, BPA, and phthalates-free. Available in variety of styles, patterns, designs, and colors.

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If the camera on your phone suffices for your needs, save yourself the weight and space in your bag and opt out of your digital camera. Since I love photography, I’ve always packed my lightweight Sony a600 and two to three lenses. *After 7 years with my a600, I’ve recently upgraded to the Sony a7III, which is a little heavier, but still small in relation to most DSLRs.

You will likely need an adaptor or two to plug in your devices wherever you are headed. I advise looking up the outlet types used in your destination countries and buying one small adaptor of each kind (rather than a bulky universal adaptor). You might even wait until you arrive to purchase an adaptor to ensure you get the correct kind. As his work requires spending all day on his laptop, Kyle purchased the world travel adaptor kit from Apple to ensure he is covered no matter where we go.

Speaking of laptops. This is the first time I’ve traveled with one, as I wasn’t working on any of my other international trips. If you also must travel with one, I suggest you get a decent laptop bag to protect it during travel days. You might choose to double up on versatility with the Earth Backpack by Terra Thread to carry your laptop as well as your other carry-on items on travel days.

Earth Backpack by Terra Thread

Good for hikes or long walks in the city but doubles as a laptop bag on travel days. Made with 14-oz Certified Fairtrade Organic cotton canvas with 16L capacity and two external water bottle pockets.

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Last but not least, you want to ensure you have all the correct charging cords and accessories for your electronics. If your travels take you somewhere more remote or rural, you should bring an extra cord for your phone in the chance your current one stops working. Planning on getting up to some sustainable off-grid recreation like multi-day trekking on your trip? A small solar panel like this renewable energy gadget by BioLite might be a good idea to take along!

what to pack In Your Toiletry Bag

I still remember when Kyle made fun of me when I showed him the bag of toiletries I had packed before we left Canada in the fall. The zero-waster in me just had to bring all the pills, medications, and first aid supplies we still had in the house, whether we needed them or not! If you commonly need over-the-counter medication like pain relievers, laxatives or diarrhea relief, allergy pills, etc., consider bringing at least a small stash. Most countries I’ve visited don’t sell these items in the corner or grocery store. Finding a pharmacy that is open or close by can be difficult when you need these things urgently.

One thing I wish I had with me is a hanging toiletry bag. I can’t count how many times I’ve had to keep my toiletry bag on the bathroom floor of our accommodation for lack of counter or storage space.

PACK-IT™ REVEAL HANGING TOILETRY KIT by Eagle Creek

Being able to hang a bag with all my daily sustainable toiletries on the back of the bathroom door sounds like a luxury right about now! This one from Eagle Creek is made with bluesign® certified 100% post-consumer recycled fabric.

See it Here!

When it comes to packing toiletries, you know what you need every day. Bring that without a doubt. For me, that’s hair ties, bobby pins, my face moisturizer, toothbrush and paste, and vitamins. Since I had somehow accumulated a plethora of tiny hotel-sized shampoos and conditioners, I didn’t need to purchase hair care before we left. Next time, I will look for a package-free, eco-friendly shampoo bar for my toiletry bag, like this one.

Organic Chocolate Soap Shampoo Bar by Butter Me Up Organics

Package-free, cruelty-free and organic, this shampoo bar provides a wonderful lather and can be used as a shampoo, soap, face wash or shaving soap.

Use code SSANDBMUO for 10% off!

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Don’t forget to bring your reusable travel items like bamboo and silicone ear swabs, cotton facial pads, and a menstrual cup! Organic and biodegradable hygiene products will help protect the waterways in the place you’re visiting. Check the toiletries section in “The Ultimate Packing List” above to ensure you don’t forget anything.

Other Handy Travel Essentials

You will want to add some other everyday life items to your packing list too! I don’t use a money belt, but it is not a bad idea for those days you must bring along your important documents or after you’ve hit the ATM and are carrying a large sum of money. Two things that are not often thought of but I consider travel essential, and I’ve always needed on my long-term trips, are duct tape and a needle and thread to repair clothing and other items.

Some other items to add to your essentials involve doing laundry. If you plan to visit a laundromat or drop your dirty or wet clothes at a laundry service, you will need a bag for that. I use the super versatile large dry bag I always bring along on my travels. We have used the clothespins we bought during our trip quite a bit when we have a washing machine in our accommodation to help with hanging clothes to dry. They come in handy for clipping bags of food products like nuts and spices closed too!

Kind Laundry Sheets

I recommend packing some eco-friendly laundry sheets like these ones from Kind Laundry.

Use code JULIENAVITKA for 10% off!

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Even though I’m not a hat person, I always have one with me for those particularly sunny hikes or to cover up hair that needs to be washed! Don’t forget to pack your sustainable sunnies and reusable water bottle too! Do yourself a favor and invest in a decent-sized travel towel. You’ll be tempted to save money and space with a small towel, but trust me, when you’ve dried only your face, and the towel won’t soak up anymore, you’ll wish you had splurged!

Pack some eco-friendly travel containers, like these ones from Life Without Plastic. Kyle and I often use our reusable silicone bags instead of plastic bags to pack leftovers or snacks for hikes, soap bars, and various other things.

Stasher Starter Kit 7-Pack

Eliminate single-use plastic bags from your life with these endlessly reusable food-grade platinum silicone bags. They are dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe up to 425 Fº and contain no BPA, BPS, lead, latex, or phthalates. They are leak-free, so you can even store soups or sauces in them!

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Important Travel Documents

Of course, you will need all the obvious important documents like your up-to-date passport and driver’s license (if you have one). Even if you don’t plan on driving at all, I recommend you bring it as a second piece of picture ID that you can leave rather than your passport when renting gear or a room that may require this. If you plan on hiring a rental car, you may want to get an international driver’s license. Although I have yet to need mine after driving through dozens of countries, it is inexpensive and smart to be safe rather than sorry!

Make sure you have international travel insurance that will cover every situation you may encounter. If you plan on hiking or visiting some isolated places, you should check that it covers helicopter rescue too. Double-check that you are covered in every country you plan to visit and that the plan will cover the entire trip.

Top travel tip – remember to check the vaccination, visa requirements, and allowed length of stay in each country you plan to visit. I recently made the mistake of “overbooking” us in Chile, which led to what would have been an unnecessary border run to Argentina to renew our 90 days there!

What NOT to Pack for a year of travel

Here are some items I have learned not to pack for long-term travel:

• Anything you never wear at home. If you don’t like it enough to sport it at home, trust me, you won’t wear it abroad either. Kyle has been toting around a pair of sandals that he never wore at home for six months now. He hasn’t used them once on this entire trip!

• Clothing that “doesn’t fit yet.” Please don’t put pressure on yourself to lose weight while traveling. Not only will it cause you stress, but that item of clothing is also useless until it fits (if it ever does). I packed a pair of shorts that were just a little too short for my comfort level but figured once I had “lost weight,” I would be confident enough to wear them. Ask me if I’ve put them on once in six months.

• If it can’t be worn in more than one way or for more than one scenario, skip it. The amount of times you will wear an item decides its worth when you can only pack so much. I packed this beautiful wool shawl I bought in Spain but have yet to use it here.

• If it’s practical but not that comfortable, skip it. Even though you might wear it a lot due to its versatility or usefulness, you’ll wish you had packed something else.

• Georgina, of Geo and Bert, suggests re-thinking “luxury items like a travelling pillow, an additional jumper when travelling in a hot country, or more than two pairs of shoes.”

• Really give it a good consideration about whether or not you should bring jewelry and/or makeup. This may be an easy decision for you either way, but as someone who likes to get “dolled” up occasionally and not every day, I have barely used the jewelry and makeup I packed.

• Really think about any personal item you want to bring that serves only the purpose of emotional comfort or sentimental value. The only thing I have with me now that falls under this category is my Dad’s wedding ring, which I wear daily.

• A hair dryer, flat iron, or curling iron. Even if you use it every day at home, I think you will learn to live without it abroad. Not to mention the room it takes up in your bag!

• Heavy boots. I LOVED having my “stylish” walking boots so much in Europe, that I insisted on packing them for South America. Although I use them quite often, my trail runners likely would have sufficed. The things we do in the name of fashion…

Pro Tips for Travel Days

If you’re traveling for a year, you’re likely not staying in one place. I have a list of travel tips for those bus, train, plane, or boat travel days.

More Sustainable Packing Tips – What to have accessible in your carry-on bag:

• Important travel documents and cash, perhaps in a hidden pocket.

• Your cell phone and other electronic devices, as well as a charging cord and battery bank.

• Water bottle and snacks.

• Hair ties, lip balm, and hand sanitizer.

• Some form of entertainment – like a book, downloaded podcast, or movie.

• If you plan to sleep, some earplugs and an eye mask might be helpful.

• Some motion sickness pills if you often need them.

• A sweater or extra layer in case you get cold. You can also roll this up and use it as a pillow!

• Your water purification tabs, Lifestraw, or Sawyer filter so you can fill up at the airport or station safely!

Sawyer Mini Water Filter

Weighing only 2 oz. and sized to fit in the palm of your hand, the Sawyer Mini water filter is one of the lightest, most compact filters available, and you can use it to drink straight from a stream.

Shop Now at REI!

Other Tips for Travel Days:

Wear your hiking shoes, or whatever are heaviest/biggest, to save the weight in your checked luggage.

If it’s rainy season or you’re worried about your checked backpack getting wet in transit, secure your pack cover onto it before checking it at the airport or putting it under the bus.

If you plan to put your day pack or carry-on bag in the overhead compartment, bring a small bag to keep with you where you can place the items you want to access easily throughout your long bus rides or flights.

Travel Apps & Phone Tips

Getting a SIM card is easier than ever before! Download an eSIM app and choose from a plethora of plans for your region of travel. I use Flexiroam and Kyle uses Airalo.

The app GPSmycity offers downloadable maps and “guided” tours of many big cities! Also, look online for free walking tours in the cities you visit – many of them offer tours daily.

Check out this article for more suggestions and recommended apps for travel!

My Travel Experience

My first international trip was to South America in 2008 for ten weeks with my best friend, Shannon, just after graduating from the Faculty of Education. I’d be lying if I said I remember what I packed! My next trip was to Southeast Asia three years later with two of my other best friends for six weeks during my summer break. This was an easy pack because I knew everywhere I went would be HOT!

The next time I decided to venture out on a world trip, it was solo. I had taken a year-long leave of absence from teaching kids about sustainability and set my sights back on Southeast Asia. After six months, I made my way to New Zealand and Australia for three more. I learned a lot about how to pack smart on this trip!

Two years of teaching later, I was on another leave of absence to fill the need in my soul for travel. This time I visited 8 countries in southeast Africa on a tour before purchasing a car in London and road-tripping all of Europe for nine months. Although I experienced every kind of weather, since I had a car in which to keep my belongings, I didn’t need to worry about fitting everything in one piece of sustainable luggage. Until I needed to come home, of course, at which point A LOT of stuff went into a donation bin in Norway!

I got home from this adventure in the fall of 2019, and before I knew it, we were in the middle of a global pandemic. During this time, I met my partner, an ex-pilot, and we rode out the Covid wave together. We knew as soon as we could, we would be leaving Canada to start a new nomadic life together. We are currently in South America, working online and living our best life. If you want to know more about our story or how to live more sustainably as a digital nomad, you can read more in my article “Sustainable Digital Slomads.“

Final Thoughts about what to pack for a year of sustainable travel

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one around the world packing list that fits all. As discussed, your location, climate, and travel style will have some influence on what you pack for a long trip. When making your packing lists, focus on necessity, versatility, comfort, and of course, sustainability!

My best advice to you from this entire post is to take the time to do a trial run with what you plan to bring. Whether you plan to travel for one month or one year, you’ll need the same items. Put them aside and try living a whole week or two (or more!) with just these items. You’ll learn what you don’t need and what you forgot quite quickly!

Now, are you packed and ready to go?

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