Backpacks, how are you preparing?

[Anonymous]

Nice idea to try out the equipment. I ordered the type of bag with metal inside so it can't be slashed and the goods stolen. I'm hoping it arrives soon.

I'm still struggling with deciding what walking shoes to bring since I'm so limited on space. I typically bring several pairs, but I don't think it's possible on this trip. Sneakers and skirts don't look very well together!!!

[Anonymous]

These can go together just fine. So many to choose from. Buy now and break 'em in

[Anonymous]

I got a couple pairs of Clark Sandals..they are REALLY comfortable! As for the backpack, I got a daypack from Magellans. At first I thought it was way too small but I have been using it for a couple days and now I'm not so sure. Its really light..which is a plus and seems to hold the things I'll need.

[Anonymous]

That looks like an excessively LARGE backpack...do we really need one that huge?? Looks like it will be very heavy to lug around all day! How much stuff are we going to put in the backpack? camera, sweater, umbrella, book, notebook, bug repellant, water bottle, comb, what else?? The fanny pack will hold the Passport and Money..is there more stuff that I am not thinking about?

[Anonymous]

I don't think there is much need for a big backpack. If we were backpacking solo throughout China and moving from city to city, and staying in parks and hostels, then a large, luggage-style backpack would be great. But for study tours, I've found that packing (fairly) normally is the best way to go. We'll be traveling by coach and staying in hotels so there really isn't a reason to pack like we're going on safari. I think a reasonably sized piece of luggage and a normal backpack should suffice.

[Anonymous]

And, back to shoes.... I agree about Clark's being very comfy, and I would like to also add that Borns (with an umlaut over the o) are also great. Do start wearing them yesterday-- nothing worse than bad shoes! Bring bandaids just in case-- sometimes old friends will turn on you in very hot, sweaty weather!

[Anonymous]

Wow. Joe, that's a big backpack! I wasn't planning to take one that big. I need to check out Magellans. I think I'll bring my tennis shoes and a comfy pair of sandals.

[Anonymous]

I agree a regular size backpack has worked out fine for me in previous study tours. As we move around on a day to day basis packing light for daily excursions has been the best way to go. Carrying a lot of luggage in the hot humid weather is exhausting.

[Anonymous]

I found a great backpack at an army surplus store. It’s not super large and its super comfy and relatively light. I also use it when I ride to work and I figure that if it works for riding and lugging around my school supplies than it will work for our trip.

[Anonymous]

I am planning on bringing my laptop with me, and I was wondering if that meant having to cart it around in a backpack all day long. I don't mind carrying it with me, but I am concerned about it getting wet if it rains. I have also heard that backpacks may not be the safest place for one's valuables. So, what is everyone else doing???

[Anonymous]

I am not bringing my laptop.

[Anonymous]

I will take my laptop, too.
I am planning to put it in a sleeve so this will protect from rain, and planning to carry this around in my backpack. I will keep camera, flip camera and laptop in this backpack and will carry this around everywhere.

1 mid size suitcase and 1 backpack. I will keep the rest simple, a few linen shirts so that I can wash every night if I want to..

[Anonymous]

Simple sounds good! A rule of thumb I learned traveling in Europe is to pack then take out half the stuff I packed. A few shirts and skirts that can be washed at night is a great idea. I also bring older clothing that can simply be left behind-- ultimately leaves more room in the luggage for souvenirs.

[Anonymous]

exactly...shopping in china out to be super fun, if we have the chance too. i'll dump my stuff too )))
i have a question though that i asked Venus, but haven't heard back yet.
the luggage requirement for traveling within China (the 1 bag/44 lb) she told us about in an earlier email.
we can still have our 1 carry on baggage, correct?
the one bag within China refers to checked luggage?
that is the way i am looking at it, but nervous whether or not that is accurate.
anyone know the answer please confirm. thanks.

[Anonymous]

I thiought I heard Clay et al say not to bring a backpack. I usually travel with a small backpack. I am actually thinking about packing it with all the gifts we have to bring and carry it on the plane.

[Author]

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