If you’ve ever been tempted to see the pyramids of Giza, visit the ruins of Machu Pichu, or travel to Europe and backpack from Italy to Russia, but haven’t … my question to you is, why not?

I’m sure before you’ve even thought it through, you’ll state: “It’s too expensive”, or “I can’t get that kind of time off of work”, but if you do maths, (which I used to dread in high school), you’ll find out that, actually it is possible, and yes, you can afford it – if you’re willing to make the trip a priority in your life. There is no better school than life, and travel broadens the mind, and makes you a more educated and open person. I’ve done a post on how to financially fund a year’s break to travel, but before you click through, keep reading this one, and get caught up in the excitement of the idea, and open yourself up to the possibilities out there.

Before that cynical critic in your head kicks in, I want to let you know that many people have successfully done this, and from every travel type you can think of, be it a family, a couple, or a brave lone wolf. There are many, many, many stories from people who’ve done this, and those that are planning to.

Unlike in my previous post, plan your perfect vacation, where I said you need to budget first and then plan your travels, in this situation (though others may disagree), you need to decide how long you’re wanting to travel (two months, six months, a year), where it is you’re wanting to go, and once those two steps are planned, you then need to figure out how much it’s going to cost you per day, in the various countries.

There are those who will follow a planned itinerary to the last details, and there are others who prefer to live a bit more vicariously. They’ll throw their itinerary out after their first city, jump on a train and hot-foot it around, flying by the seat of their pants. I cannot vouch for either method, but whichever school of thought you follow, it’s always good to know a bit of what you want to do, and where you’re going to go (and when your plane is going to be departing).

Once you’ve figured out where you’re going, don’t make the most common mistake (pointed out by those who’ve taken an extended travel). This number one no-no, is trying to fit too many things in. You don’t want to be rushed off your feet from the moment you arrive at your first destination, until you leave and set off for your next one – and if you are, you won’t truly get to enjoy anything. Pick a few things you want to see, or places you want to visit and mark them out on a map. Then work out how much it’ll cost you to visit each one (include food and beverages). Also, you don’t have to see every “Must See”. Sure, if you’re in Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is on almost every Top 10 list, but if you’re not interested in seeing it, then don’t go. Spend your time doing something you’ll enjoy.

A good tip to keep in mind from those who’ve been there and done this, is the more you move around, the more expensive things will be. Try and spend at least two weeks in each area, in one accommodation if possible. If you can stay anywhere on the cheap, try to, but don’t reduce yourself to living from one backpacker’s lodge, to the next dreary backpacker’s lodge, if that isn’t what you’re after. With the way the world is now-a-days, technology has made it much easier to connect with people, so don’t be shy about tapping into those resources. If your aunt has a second cousin in Hawaii, ask if you can have their contact details, and message them to let them know you’re going to be visiting the 50th state for three weeks – you never know, they might be nice enough to let you stay with them.

Figuring out what to pack is tricky, as everyone has their own personal preferences. For the women who use birth control, make sure you have an extended supply – you don’t want to run out after a month and not know what works well in another country. Ditto with personal hygiene products. For many people, my packing list won’t make the cut, but I’m projecting for a year long travel, with only one backpack, and maybe a laptop bag. I’ve included items for both men and women in this list:

Clothing:

• 2x Pairs of shorts.
• 1x Pair of pajama’s.
• 1x Smart long pants.
• 1x Pair of jeans.
• 3x Tank tops.
• 1x Smart long top.
• 1x Jersey or light cardigan.
• 2x Long sleeve shirts.
• 7 x Pairs of undergarments (it may be a bit extreme, but along the way you’re likely to lose a few of them, and it’s a pain to try and replace a beloved item that you know fits well).
• 2x T-shirts.
• 2x Sundress’.
• 2x Swim shorts and swim suites.
• 1x Rain jacket.
• 2x Sandles.
• 2x Takkies (or one pair of takkies, and one pair of boots).
• 1x Smart shoes.

Accessories:

• Backpack (with a zip-off day pack).
• Towels.
• One scarf / bandana/ sarong.
• Sun hat and a beanie.
• Gloves.
• Two pairs of sunglasses (your likely to break a pair in the first month).
• Laptop in carrier bag.
• External Hard drive.
• Universal adaptor.
• Camera.
• Batteries.
• Music Player.

Health & Misc:

• 1x Toothbrush.
• 1x Toothpaste.
• 1x Floss.
• 1x Soap.
• 1x Shampoo (and conditioner if you use it).
• 1x Earbuds.
• 1x Deodorant
• 1x Nail kit and tweezers.
• 1x Shaving kit.
• 1x Hairbrush.
• 1x Toilet Roll or Tissue box.
• 1x Medical kit that includes eye drops, pain relievers, cold and flu medicine, anti-histamines, anti-nausea, anti-diarrhoea, Rehydration sachets and Rennies (or any other anti-acids).
• 6x One month’s supply of medication if required, and a prescription so you can get it re-filled.
• 1x Ziplock bags (always come in handy).
• 1x Insect repellent.
• 1x Sunblock (min of 25spf).
• 1x Safety pins.
• 1x Lip-ice or Vaseline.
• 1 x Phrase book for each of the countries being visited.
• 1x Deck of cards.
• 2x Flashlights.
• 1x Proof of Travel insurance.

So that’s my year long – one backpack only – items list. You’ll notice I’ve left jewellery off. The reason behind this is you can buy as you need, if it’s required. Don’t take the priceless necklace grandma gave you , and run the risk of losing it in Puerto Rico. Make sure every clothing item you bring can be matched with several others. This way you will still have a variety of outfits from a rather small selection.

If you’ve got any personal ‘must-haves’ which aren’t included, please leave a comment stating what they are and why.

Travel Tips:

• Depending where you’re travelling to, it’s always a good idea to have vaccinations against whatever you may encounter. Typhoid fever, Polio, Malaria, and Hepatitis aren’t on anyone’s list of “To Do’s”.
• Don’t overlook making sure your passport is valid for the period you want to travel. I’m not sure about other countries, but S.A passports are valid for a ten year period. Also, make certain your visas will arrive before you set off. Customs could be tricky otherwise.
• Make a list of emergency contacts as well as your embassy’s address, so if the need arrives, someone can point you in the right direction.
• Bring a valid driver’s license along in case you want to rent a car, or a scooter. In some countries, you can apply for a universal driver’s license.
• If you’re a couple travelling together, put one of your outfits (including underwear), into your partners bag. Should the unthinkable happen, (which sadly, occurs far too frequently), and a bag goes missing, you should have at least have one bag, with clothing for both you, to tide you over till you can buy more.
• When you’re packing, roll your clothes, do not fold them. This saves space and to some degree, prevents clothing wrinkles.

This short post should get you started on planning your round-the-world adventure (although it’s doubtful you’ll do it in 80 days, like Phileas Fogg). Remember to always be safe in whatever journey you’re embarking on. Be respectful of local customs, don’t photograph others without permission, and make sure to appreciate the beauty of those around you and the different scenery each country offers.

If you’ve ever travelled for an extended period of time, where did you go? Have any tips to add to this list? Feel free to leave them in the comments. If you’re looking to travel to South Africa, view our list of reputable accommodations.

Main image credited to Rachfog (Flickr)