🌍My Traveler's Story
After over 20 years of travel, from the beaches of Bali to the mountains of Peru, from the savannahs of Kenya to the markets of Istanbul, I've learned that packing is an art that can make the difference between a memorable trip and a stressful one. Each destination has taught me something new, and today I want to share with you the secrets I've discovered along the way.
🧳 1. The Basics: The Right Suitcase
"🇧🇷 Rio's Lesson: Less is More
Living in Rio, I learned a simple philosophy from the Cariocas: bring only the essentials. When you have to frequently travel between Copacabana and Ipanema on public transport, you quickly realize that every gram counts..."
The aluminum suitcases I use now are incredibly durable yet surprisingly light. They have survived the most brutal journeys unscathed: from low-cost flights in South America to overnight trains in India. Their sturdiness has saved me many times, especially when I had to transport delicate camera equipment across Africa.
🚨 2. The Golden Rule: Never Pack Everything in Your Suitcase
The most important lesson I've learned? Never pack everything in your checked bag. During a flight to Machu Picchu, my suitcase disappeared for four days. Luckily, I followed the carry-on luggage rules wisely.
🎒The Life-Saving Carry-On
In my carry-on, I always carry:
A complete change of clothes for two days - underwear, shirt, pants
Essential medications - especially prescription ones
Basic hygiene products - toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
Charger and cables - to stay connected
Light jacket - for temperature changes
Backup documents - laminated copy
🔐 3. The Body Bag: My Best Friend
After being robbed in Barcelona (an expensive lesson!), I never travel without my body bag. I always wear it under my shirt and it contains:
🛂 Original passport - always with me
💳 Major credit cards - distributed in different locations
💰 Emergency cash - in local currency and dollars/euros
🆔 Copy of ID - for local checks
🏥 European Health Insurance Card - for travel within the EU
📞 Emergency numbers - written on paper, not just on my phone
🎯 4. The separation strategy
I've learned to divide everything into three security points:
Personal document holder: original documents and major cash
Carry-on luggage: copies of documents and minor cards
Checked luggage: laminated copies and hidden spare cash
This strategy saved me when my backpack was stolen in Colombia: I still had everything I needed to continue my trip.
💊 5. The Medical Kit: Lessons Learned the Hard Way
During my first trip to Peru, I underestimated the importance of a complete medical kit. Altitude sickness in Cusco taught me that being prepared can save your trip:
Painkillers and anti-inflammatories - essential for altitude headaches
Lactic acid bacteria - after that terrible food poisoning in Delhi
Broad-spectrum antibiotic - by prescription
Band-aids and disinfectant - for minor accidents while trekking
Antihistamine - discovered after being stung by something in the Amazon
Digital thermometer: compact and reliable
Insect repellent - essential in the tropics
☀️ 6. Sunscreen: Not Just for the Beach
The Sahara Desert sun taught me that sunscreen isn't just for beach vacations. Even in the mountains, snow reflects UV rays devastatingly:
SPF 50+ sunscreen - water and sweat resistant
Lip balm with protection - a lifesaver at high altitude
Hat with visibility - preferably with a neck guard
Category 4 sunglasses - essential for glaciers and deserts
📸 7. Photography Equipment: Capturing Memories
From the Northern Lights in Iceland to sunsets over the Kenyan savannah, I've learned that photography equipment can truly capture unforgettable moments:
Mirrorless camera - the lightest of the traditional SLRs
Versatile 24-70mm lens - covers most situations
Ultralight tripod - for night photos and selfies
20,000 mAh power bank - for days without electricity
Extra memory cards - always in separate cases
Waterproof case - tested during the monsoons in Vietnam
🧳 SUITCASES TESTED ON 5 CONTINENTS 🧳 20 Years of Travel Has Taught Me What Really Works Discover the Suitcases That Can Withstand Anything:
https://topviaggiaresolutions.com/products/valigia-trolley-lega-di-alluminio-e-magnesio-con-ruote-universali-leggera-e-resistente
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👕 8. Clothing for Every Climate
🌴 For the Tropics (Asia, Central Africa):
Breathable technical fabrics
Lightweight long pants (mosquito protection)
Trekking sandals for rivers
Ultralight rain jacket
🏔️ For the Mountains (Andes, Himalayas):
Layering system: base layer, fur, shell
Merino wool socks
Break-in hiking boots
Thermal gloves and hats
🏜️ For the Deserts (Sahara, Atacama):
Long, light-colored clothing
Scarf to protect your face and neck
Closed, sand-proof shoes
🎁 9. Space for Memories
An important lesson: always leave 20% of your suitcase empty for souvenirs. I learned this rule after having to buy an extra suitcase in Marrakech for all the carpets and spices I couldn't leave behind!
I always use:
Vacuum bags - to compress clothes on the way home
Portable digital scale - to avoid excess weight
Extra foldable bag - becomes carry-on luggage for the return trip
📦 10. Internal Organization: The Method That Works
After years of trial and error, I've developed my perfect system:
Bottom: shoes (in bags) and heavy items
First layer: pants and heavy clothing
Second layer: t-shirts and underwear (rolled, not folded)
Top: medical kit, electronics, backup documents
Side pockets: frequently used items
✅ Conclusion: The Perfect Suitcase Exists
After 20 years and 4 continents, I can say that the perfect suitcase is not the most expensive, but the one that best suits your needs. My aluminum suitcase has become my most faithful travel companion, protecting my memories and accompanying me on every adventure.
Remember: every trip is an opportunity to learn something new, even about packing. Don't be afraid to experiment and adapt these tips to your specific needs.
🌟 Have a great trip and... happy packing!
📚 Read Our Other Articles Too
🌟 More Travel Tips:
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"Traveling is the only thing you buy that makes you richer."
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