What We're Packing

Once we decided to do a backpacking trip the shopping began immediately! We, well mostly Aimee, started to do research on backpacks, shoes, gadgets, & packing lists for Southeast Asia.  We started to price out items & wanted to get the best deals. We mostly shopped around & made most of our purchases at REI and on Amazon. 

Tip: Read reviews, test out items in store, & then check online to see if there is a better deal.  

This is what we are packing...

Deuter Backpacks (REI.com)

Aimee:40 + SL-$179

Dusty:50 + 15 Act Zero-$189

*We went to REI flagship in DT Seattle and tried on these backpacks.  They first measured us & recommended a variety of backpacks that would fit the best (petite & a long back).  They stuffed the backpack for us (20lbs & 40lbs) & we walked around the store with them on. We liked the fit, breathablility, & style. 

Tip: Sign up for REI membership ($20) for discounts & coupons.  We got 20% off on one item for being members! The membership never expires & is a one time fee.

Shoes & Slippers

Aimee- Keen Voyageur Mid Hiking Boot original $120 deal: $90 x Keen Newport H2 Sandal original $99 deal: $70 on amazon.com  x Havaianas $20 from Nordstrom

Dusty- Keen Koven Mid $100 x volcom slippers $30 from surf shop

*Like the backpacks, we went to REI & tried on shoes & tested them out. REI even has hiking trails inside the store.We really liked the feel of Keens, no need to break in, breathable, good support for arch. We actually found the best deal on amazon.com  

Tip: With Keens & most hiking boots go up 1/2 size for the right fit.

Money holders

-RFID Money Belt $16.50 REI.com
*It blocks access to personal data stored on embedded micro chips.
-REI RFID Travel Wallet Combo Pack  gifted 
*Includes a bifold wallet and a neck wallet with detachable cord
-Handwoven Oaxaca Wristlet gifted (Thanks Emma:)

Day backpacks & packing cubes

-REI Convertible Stuff tote bag/backpack gifted
-REI Stuff Travel Daypack $29.50
*Day packs perfect for trips to market & the beach!
-REI Expandable Packing cube set $29.50
*keep backpack organized & accessible 
-Laundry bag
-Waterproof iphone protector from Santa

First Aid Kit

-Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel REI (Thanks Shar & Jake:)
*Fully loaded kit with bandages, pain medication, wipes, ointment, thermometer, dressings, medical instruments, medical book & more! 
-MISC-sunblock, repel bug spray, toilet tissue, seat covers, hand sanitizer, mace, ear plugs, eye drops

Gadgets

-Canon underwater camera
-Fujifilm Instax Max Mini 8 Kit-$130 amazon.com (w/ film and case)
-Kindle
-Samsung Tablet
-GoPro
-locks for day trips

Leisure

-Cressi Snorkels with travel bag gifted from amazon.com

*We are planning to spend a lot of time near the water, we are super excited to have these on hand instead of having to rent them each time. We'll be saving $$$ (Thanks brothers!)

-Cacala Turkish Towels with face towel $20-25 each amazon.com

*Turkish towels are fast drying, soft, & stylish for travel 

  

Planning a backpacking trip is not cheap! We spent months researching & collecting our pieces trying to get good deals. We are thankful for our family members who also contributed to our trip with travel gear & amazon gift certificates.  

The best thing about this backpacking trip haul is that it will come in handy for future adventures & fit well with our 

Hawaii life:)