This blog was written by global gap fellow Mica Cole.
I just finished up my time in Japan, which has been a fire trip, and I am now headed to South Korea.
As I’ve been traveling through Asia, something that is still crazy for me to say, I’ve found that there are a few things I have been extremely grateful to have by my side. So here is a list of things that I absolutely do not regret bringing:
1. My Cotapaxi backpack. a backpack that opens like a suitcase so my things are always organized and it is the perfect size. Bringing a huge backpacking bag is OVERRATED, I’ve been completely fine with a medium sized backpack and it’s way more convenient to have a bag that can be a carry-on or checked bag (it will also save you a lot of money).
2. My Baggu. Geneva calls it my bag of tricks, a perfect name as it fits any and everything I might need on the day to day. It not only holds much more than you would think, it is also a durable material and just a cute bag.
3. My New Balance 530s. the perfect shoe for walking, hiking, sitting, etc. They are also cute so very versatile overall, I wear them most days and they actually compliment my outfits instead of ruining them.
4. My IPad. I love my IPad and am so happy I brought it over a computer. It is small enough to store away but perfectly able to function as a computer as well.
5. A good sweater. Genuinely one of the most important things you could bring, I wear mine everyday and it is much more practical than a sweatshirt in my opinion.
6. A bob. Before departing this past fall I cut my hair into a bob and it’s the best thing I could’ve done, it saves me SO much time and money, 10/10 highly recommend.
7. A loofah. This is very random but also very necessary. There will not always be wash cloths/body towels available and I’m not very fond of washing with only my hands so this has been very handy.
8. Protein bars. These are so convenient, I often find myself in need of a snack or a quick meal and so I always keep at least two of these on me. My personal favorites are Clif bars and the built puffs.
9. Rainbow flip flops. Although these flip flops were costly, they were very worth it. A good pair of leather flip flops shouldn’t be overlooked.
10. My Uniqlo HeatTech. I didn’t realize how essential this would be until I got to Tokyo and it was FREEZING. I had heard good things about the heat techs and figured I would try it out, and it was 100% worth the money. I’ve worn it everyday and it is safe to say my upper body has been nice and toasty.
11. A quality portable charger. This is very important considering that the majority of your day to day could consist of using google maps, which drains your battery very quickly. This is definitely something you would want to splurge a bit on.
12. A GOOD tote bag. Underrated item honestly but I’ve used mine very frequently. Since I only allowed myself to bring one backpack, having a tote bag to carry any other miscellaneous things has been very useful. It is the perfect size for a personal item on the plane and it fits SO much depending on the size.
13. ZZZquil. Coming from someone who went from not being able to sleep on flights to sleeping through the entirety of a 13 hour flight, this stuff works wonders and will actually help you sleep (along with a neck pillow).
The remainder of this list is to be determined, I can’t wait to see what other things I will learn this year! Seoul, here I come!