Clothing

A sarong (a supremely versatile item – use it to cover shoulders in the more conservative countries and use it on the beach when you fancy a dip in the sea)
A selection of simple tops (the simpler, the better as you’ll get away with wearing the same thing over and over (and over) again 😉)
2 pairs of shorts
1 cosy jumper or fleece
2 long skirts, dresses or jumpsuits – (jumpsuits are a personal fave here as you get both movement and modesty)
1 nice dress (for when you’re feeling fancy)
1 pair of leggings (perfect for sports and the plane)
2 pairs of socks
2 bras
7 pairs of underwear (one for each day of the week 😉)
1 pair of hiking boots
1 pair of sandals
1 pair of trainers / lightweight shoes
1 waterproof jacket
1 swimming costume
Sunglasses

Toiletries

Shampoo
Conditioner
Body wash
Moisturiser
Face wash
Dry shampoo
Hand sanitiser (for times when there’s no bathroom in sight)
Travel first aid kit – anti-histamines, diarrhoea tablets, safety pins, painkillers etc.
Insect repellent
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Menstrual cup
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Tweezers
Make-up (minimal if you’re going to a hot climate)
Eye mask (critical for blocking out light on those overnight journeys)
Hairbrush
Earplugs (a hosteller’s must-have)
Small mirror
Toiletry bag

Microfibre towel (lightweight, fast-drying and compact – don’t leave without one!)
Padlock (preferably one with a combination lock rather than a key)
Clothes wash
Reusable water bottle
Ziplock bags (handy for dirty laundry and for separating out toiletries)
Personal safety alarm
Passport
Travel visas (get these sorted as early as possible!)
Extra passport photo (in case of any visa issues)
Headlamp
Camera
Peppermint oil
Sleeping bag liner
Local currency (even a small amount will help you get off to a good start once you touchdown)
Emergency contact numbers
Money belt
Plug adapter
Books or a kindle
Electronic device chargers
Portable charger
Headphones
Portable Speakers