What are Travel Essentials and Extras

In planning our trip to Peru we found we were allowed only 44 pounds of luggage in one bag in order to visit the Manu wildlife reserve. This has focused our attention on what is essential and what is not. Here's my list of essentials:

Clothing

Two pairs of nylon slacks. These can be washed and dried quickly. Two long sleeved shirts. One fleece pullover for cold weather. 1 or 2 pairs of shorts for hot weather, no bug regions. One t-shirt or tank top per day--8 total for a week. One pair of hiking boots. One pair of walking shoes.

Underwear

One pair of underwear per day--8 total for a week. One pair of socks per day--8 total for a week. You might one or two extras for wash day. One bra.

Cosmetics

Many hotels provide shampoo, soap and conditioner. I usually bring all three because I have dry hair that needs extra care. Tooth brush and toothpaste--I like the small squeeze bottles best since they take less room. Deodorant. Lotion. I prefer to carry these in a plastic bag to prevent spillage onto clothing in case of an accident, or to put a plastic cover over the top of each.

First Aid

Aloe alcohol gel. Band aids. Sun protection. Bug protection--DEET. Anti-diarrhea pills. Baby aspirin. Tylenol. Pseudophed. Vitamins. Vicks jelly for foot dryness and fungus. Prescription drugs. Anti-malarial pills if needed. Laxative. Cipro prescription for tourista.

Books

Bird book. Travel journal. 1 book per week entertainment, plus one for each plane trip.

Electronics

Camera, binoculars.

Formal Dinner Dress

Suit jacket, tie and slacks for men. Dress or casual suit for women. Sandals.

Honeymoon style lingerie.

Cosmetics

Overnight cream, body lotion, massage oil.

Swimwear & Exercise

I bring two swimsuits per week since they are easier to put on dry. Cover up. If a gym is available I like to have an extra pair of shorts and t-shirt. Snorkel and fins. Golf clubs.

Videocamera, birding scope and large-sized lenses.

Books

Bird finding guides. Mammal guide.

Hats & Visors--you can often buy these locally in many places, especially those that don't travel well.