We have spent a lot of time living out of a bag whilst travelling the humid climate of Southeast Asia, and after doing so, have created the perfect list of items to add to any girls' packing list for backpacking Southeast Asia.
Knowing what to pack as a girl backpacking in Southeast Asia can be hard, as you want your luggage to be light, whilst still having some of the same comforts as home. Whilst you will need to do a big cull and only bring the necessities, it is possible to still pack light and travel in style. I suggest packing no more than 15kg in weight, or even less is best. You will also be able to save money on luggage, by only taking carry-on on planes if you can get it under 10kg! This list is definitely just a guide, and you can pack as little or as less as you like.Here is our detailed packing list for girls backpacking Southeast Asia.
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A GIRL'S PACKING LIST FOR BACKPACKING SOUTHEAST ASIA
Toiletries can take up a lot of room and weight in your luggage, therefore I suggest you pack minimally and really think about what your few favourite products are. Pack items that are suited to your type of travel, the climate, and what is good for you and your body.
Makeup
When I first started packing for travelling, I thought that I would use the eye shadow, eye liner, blush or highlighter that I packed. But truth be told, we spent more time adventuring, than at a bar or fancy restaurant, so I never used them. You will soon realise that every other girl backpacking in Southeast Asia is doing the same - spending everyday with a bare face, sun-kissed skin and salty and messy hair. When it comes to choosing makeup, I suggest only bringing your top 3-5 items. For me that is a BB Cream, Mascara and Brow Powder. However, I try to get my brows and lashes tinted whenever I can, to avoid having to wear much makeup at all. I also pack a mineral powder and bronzer, but these very rarely get used.
Face Cleanser Pads
As we are trying our best to travel minimally and produce less waste, one product I have loved travelling with is a face cleanser pad. It takes up little room in my toiletries bag, replaces my flannel and my cleansing lotion, and it produces no waste. Just use it with water, and the fibres in the pad clean the dirt and grime off your face.
MY SUGGESTION:
ECOBEAUTY MAKEUP REMOVER PADS - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Solid Shampoo, Conditioner and Soap Bars
When It comes to washing my hair and body, I try to pack travel items with zero wasteand ones that take up minimal space in my bag. That means I often pack solid shampoo, conditioner and soap bars as they are small, make minimal mess and contain no packaging. Lush Cosmeticsis the best place to buy them. Solid toiletries are great to travel with, but if you choose to bring containers I suggest no more than 250mL, and research Zero Waste Stores around SE Asia to refill them.
MY SUGGESTION:
LUSH COSMETICS stock a huge range of solid toiletries from shampoo, conditioner and soaps! Plus they smell divine!
Moisturiser/Body Oils
For me, keeping my skin hydrated was really important as a girl backpacking in Southeast Asia. I would normally come home every day with dry, sun-kissed or salty skin. Most tropical places in SE Asia, such as the Philippines and Bali, sold homemade and local coconut oil, which was one of the best solutions to hydrating my skin. Unfortunately, buying a moisturiser in Asia is difficult, as most contain a whitening cream as well. I suggest packing your favourite moisturiser from home to take with you.
MY SUGGESTION:
DIRTY HIPPIE COSMETICS stock package-free or plastic-free cosmetics, all made with natural ingredients - and they are Australian too!
Waterproof Toiletries Bag for the Shower
Whilst travelling, I pack 2 bags for my toiletries. One clear and waterproof bag for my shower items and one for my dry items. That means I do not have to take my whole toiletries bag into the shower, and risk getting everything that's in it wet.
MY SUGGESTIONS:
PRO CASE CLEAR CARRY ON TOILETRIES CASES - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
FLEXZION REFILLABLE TOILETRIES SET - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Hair Accessories
Whilst it depends on your hair and your style as to what hair accessories you will pack, I always like to pack some items that will make my outfit "pop", as my clothes are quite minimal. I also love doing different hair styles, so including some hair accessories were a must on my packing list. I normally pack a selection of hair ties, plenty of bobby pins (because they always get lost!), a couple of scrunchies and a hair scarf.
MY SUGGESTION:
THE LOST TRIBE are a South Australian label stocking amazing hair accessories and lifestyle pieces.
Nail Clippers and Tweezers
Whilst travelling long-term, trying to keep myself maintained was hard. I always pack a pair of nail clippers and tweezers to cut my finger nails or pluck my eyebrows.
MY SUGGESTION:
QUEENSLAND QUINTESSENTIALS NAIL CLIPPER SET - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Reusable Shaver
Although I got the shaver out very rarely, it was handy having smooth legs and underarms every now and then, to feel just a little bit feminine. A shaver is one travel item you can replace for zero waste travel, by using a reusable one inside of a disposable plastic one.
MY SUGGESTION:
ASPIRE TO INSPIRE DOUBLE EDGE SAFTEY RAZOR - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Hair Products
It does depend on your type of hair as to whether you will decide to pack any additional hair products at all. As my hair is long, blonde, thick, knots easily in the wind and water and loves to frizz in humid climates, I decided that packing a few hair products would save me headaches in the long run. I especially love to pack blonde shampoo whilst travelling Southeast Asia as, from previous experience, my hair turns brassy from the waters. In addition, I also pack a detangler spray for after swimming, and a treatment to add to my hair after I wash it, to help with knotting and frizzing.
MY SUGGESTION:
I love the SUNBUM Leave-In Spray to detangle my hard at the beach!And the Australian hair brand, ELEVEN for their Purple Shampoo and Hair Treatment.
Tampons and Menstrual Cups
Having your period in SE Asia is not fun (when is it ever fun?). If you are lucky, you may come across some sanitary pads in local stores, but trying to find tampons is next-level HARD. They are definitely a first-world luxury. It will be very rare to find any at all and, as we know, it is too risky going swimming without them. That's why I suggest packing as many as you think you will need for your whole trip, as well as purchasing and stocking up on any that you happen to find along the way. In addition, transitioning to a menstrual cup will also save you money and the hassle of trying to buy disposable sanitary items at all. A menstrual cup is also a great way to use less waste while travelling.
This definitely wasn't originally on my list when packing for travel, but I have been stuck more times than I can count. Toilet paper is another first-world luxury, and rare to find in SE Asia. I can't stress enough how important it is to be carrying toilet paper on you, as you never know when you will be stuck. Thank me later.
CLOTHING
I always try to pack clothes that are lightweight, durable, versatile, and will be used often because you love them! Here is a list of the necessities, as well as some of my optional additions.
Plain Tops
On most days you will see me wearing just a plain top and shorts whilst backpacking SE Asia. 5-6 plain T-shirts and singlets will end up being some of your most worn items. Make sure your tops are versatile, can be worn with any bottom that you have packed, covers your shoulders for temple visits and are not easily crinkled. I struggled with some of my favourite shirts getting wrinkled too easily even if I did roll them nicely. **PRO TIP - In the case of fixing wrinkled clothing I used the trick of flicking water on the item and using my hands to brush it out - and that worked relatively well!**
MY SUGGESTION:
WHOLESOME CULTURE stock ethically made T-shirts with meaningful graphics. They are a perfect travel item!
Shorts
1-2 pairs of shorts will also be some of your most worn clothing items. I packed a denim pair and a plain linen pair. Make sure to pack shorts that are comfortable and can be worn with any top you pack.
MY SUGGESTION:
I love the linen shorts, pants and jumpsuits from ROVE BYRON BAY.
Light Sundresses and Jumpsuits
After tops and shorts, light sundresses and jumpsuits will be your second most worn outfits. I packed 2 loose-fitting, short sundresses and 1 pair of thin and short overalls. These outfits were great to just chuck over a pair of swimmers, to wear to the beach and to not worry about being too hot or uncomfortable in.
Without a doubt you will be visiting conservative and sacred places like temples, so packing clothing that covers your knees will be useful. Therefore, I suggest packing a pair of breathable and loose-fitting pants and a long comfortable skirt/dress for these occasions. Make sure both items can be worn with any top that you pack.
Whilst the weather is warm in SE Asia, it is a tropical climate, and bursts of rain can happen at any time of the year. Even though there are dry and wet seasons throughout the continent, not every area shares the same climate. If you are planning on seeing many places, definitely pack a rain coat. We both have coats that fold up really small so they don't take up too much space.
MY SUGGESTION:
MAVIS LAVEN WATERPROOF LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Swimwear
I wore a set of bathers almost every day whilst we travelled, as I never knew when we might jump in the warm SE Asian water for a swim. I managed to pack 5 different pairs of bikinis that I could miss-match to create different styles and 2 one-pieces. This was definitely a lot, but I wore them all the time so it was worth it. I would suggest bringing at least 3-4 of your favourite sets - ones that can be easily mis-matched so you don't get sick of the same pair.
MY SUGGESTION:
There are a few brands I support when it comes to swimwear, for their recycled materials and ethical practices. My favourites are KOLEHA, BURROWS & CO and WINSLOW THE LABEL.
Fitness Gear
Whilst I didn't "workout" or go to the gym regularly, we still went on many hikes and walks around the places we visited. I packed 1 set of fitness wear including a crop top, tights, shorts and a singlet.
Warmer Gear
Whilst the weather is mostly hot in SE Asia, there are still some areas that experience cold weather, especially in the highlands. Packing a lightweight jumper, a long sleeve top, and waterproof pants will come in handy for any cooler nights, and will be perfect for overnight trekking. You will never know when you will need them, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
MY SUGGESTION:
I love the sustainable travel and outdoor brand PATAGONIA. Their gear is high quality and made from recycled materials.
Optional: Dressy Outfits
While this is most definitely optional and they will only get little use, I wore some dressier tops and skirts every now and then. At some point you will want to "dress up", and bringing 1-2 of your favourite summer outfits, such as a cropped top with a denim skirt, will help you get out of your backpacking fashion sense every once in a while. However, keep in mind that a short, tight skirt isn't the most practical getting on and off a scooter, I have flashed too many people I would like to admit.
FOOTWEAR
Sandshoes (Waterproof)
Do not go to SE Asia without a good pair of walking shoes. Any sports shoe will do, you do not need hiking boots. Regular sandshoes are lightweight and take up less space in your luggage than hiking boots. We managed to do plenty of hikes with just our Adidas shoes. However, we do recommend packing a pair that is waterproof, as there is a high chance you will walk over water or get rained on whilst hiking.
MY SUGGESTION:
ALEADER QUICK DRYING WATER SHOES - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Flip Flops/Sandals
My most worn pair of shoes are my rubber pair of Birkenstocks. I wore them all the time, as they were comfortable, it didn't matter if they got wet at a beach or waterfall, and they went with every outfit. I suggest bringing just one pair of flip flops or sandals that you love, but also won't get ruined by water and sand. My first pair of Birkenstocks were made from leather and cork, and although they are still my favourite pair of all time, they didn't last long. If you have enough room, bring another pair of sandals if you wish, but no more than 2-3 pairs of shoes in total.
MY SUGGESTION:
BIRKENSTOCK UNISEX ARIZONA BLACK SANDALS - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
ACCESSORIES
Jewellery
Whilst I do wish I was more of a jewellery girl, it always seems to come off and I forget to put it back on. However, there were some minimal and everyday jewellery items that I did pack. Such as my favourite and treasured rings and anklets. As long as it's minimal and can be worn every day in and out of the water, then packing jewellery is totally acceptable for backpacking in Southeast Asia.
MY SUGGESTION:
LUNA AND ROSE sell ethical lifestyle jewellery from recycled silver. I love their St Christoper, Born to Travel, Globetrotter and Protection Necklaces.
Sarong
A sarong was great for covering up after swimming without needing to put my clothes on over the top and get them wet. It was also good to cover up from the sun. If I put some cool water on my sarong and swung it over my body, it helped cool me down instantly. There are lots of great designs in the market stalls in Bali, and they are relatively cheap.
Whilst out during the day, it is important to have a separate backpack that will fit all your daily needs, such as a water bottle, towel, hat, camera, purse etc. It is also important to choose a backpack that is comfortable and waterproof for long days hiking or when it rains.
KAKA WATER RESISTANT ANTI THEFT TRAVEL BAG - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Small Handbag
Instead of taking your day pack everywhere, for trips to a café or to a bar at night, it is well worth having a small handbag to also take out. Nothing too big, something that can be slung across your body, and will fit your purse and phone and other smaller items inside. Additionally, it is popular to pack a bum bag instead, as this will protect you from theft as well.
MY SUGGESTION:
TRAVELON ANTI THEFT CROSS BODY BAG - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Cap/Hat
I am not a huge hat wearer, but after hiking in the blazing sun, or lying on a beach with the sun directly in my eyes, I soon realised that a hat was necessary. I don't think it is practical packing a huge floppy hat for backpacking, as they are awkward to pack. Instead, I chose to pack a small cap, that could easily be carried in my day pack and fitted firmly so it would never blow off. Pack any hat that you love that can be worn with any outfit, easily packable and suitable for hiking.
Notebook
With the easy access to technology and the notes function so readily available on our phones, having a notebook isn't always a necessity. However, I am someone who loves to physically write things down. I used my notebook for recording information about our travels and for jotting down notes about future travel plans. I also think this is a great memoir to keep and reflect back on after you have finished travelling.
I never thought I would use a waterproof phone case, but it is now an essential travel item. On boat trips I would use one so my phone wouldn't get wet from the spray or fall in the water when filming. Another great use is on a scooter. I am normally the navigator and not the driver. So, whilst sitting on the back I would constantly be holding my phone in my hand for directions. Having my phone in a phone case around my neck meant that there was no chance of it being dropped, snatched or getting wet from the rain.
AIRUNN TECH 3 PACK WATERPROOF PHONE CASE - FIND OUT PRICES HERE
Travel Wallet
I always pack a travel wallet to hold important documents and items. My travel wallet only ever comes out on days we are flying, otherwise it stays locked up in my luggage. Items I put in my travel wallet are passports, travel insurance documents, currency, photocopies of our passports, spare bank cards, sim cards, and receipts.
Whilst cutting down on your packing list for backpacking Southeast Asia is important, how you pack is also just as important. I always pack the same way every time, that way I know where everything is, and can pack my bag quicker. Here are my top tips for packing:
Roll instead of fold! Rolling minimises crinkling your clothes and also makes your clothes smaller.
Use Packing Cubes. Packing cubes are the best way to organise your gear. I have separate cubes for tops, bottoms, bathers and underwear. It keeps my clothes compact and easy to find.
Stuff small items in gaps. Stuffing socks in your shoes, or your towel around the edges of your bag will help with saving space.
Pack Less. If you are "umming" and "ahhing" about a particular item, don't pack it. Only pack what you are certain about. If you wish you packed something, you can always buy items along the way.
Make sure items match. There is no use packing your favourite shirts and favourite bottoms, if none of them match. Make sure all tops can be worn with all bottoms, and vice versa.
Packing for Southeast Asia as a girl doesn't have to be hard. Hopefully, with this list, you will be able to prioritise what items to pack, and be more prepared before your travels. Please share this post if you found it valuable and comment below if you have any more essential packing items or tips for girls' travelling Southeast Asia.
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BR
BreannaCo-founder & Storyteller
Breanna is one half of Chalkie and the Chippy. A former country South Australian school teacher, she writes most of our destination guides and keeps the stories honest, practical and a little bit cheeky.
