What should I pack?

There is a useful list of what to pack, as well as links to some excellent websites with brand name goods at discounted prices, on the iGapyear travel gear page.

It is important to pack sensibly for your gap year. There are lots of essentials that you need to take with you and only one backpack to fit everything in! When you pack your backpack, you need to remember that you will spend a lot of time carrying it and need to be able to lift it without hurting yourself. Do some research to find out what you need in the country you are visiting. Is it worthwhile packing a bulky mosquito net? Or is that a waste of space. You can always buy things when you are on the road – it is likely to be cheaper than at home anyway.

There are many things that you think are essential to your life at home that you can easily do without while you are travelling. Take advantage of being liberated from your need for material possessions.

• Valid passport (that is not due to expire for 6 months after your return date)
• Any necessary visas
• Travel insurance details
• All ticket details
• Proof of vaccinations received

We advise you to keep copies of all your travel documents with you, but separate from the originals, as well as leaving a copy at home with someone you can reach easily. You could also scan a copy in and email it to yourself for easy access.