The Essential Backpack Packing List For A Day Trip

This post will be sharing the essential backpack packing list you need for a day trip.

Over the last two years, I’ve taken about a dozen day trips. During this period, I’ve gone from using a super-sized Tote bag to stylish shoulder bags and now backpacks. I’ve used these different bags with various comfort levels. Just recently, I switched to backpacks and it just reminded me of why they’re the ultimate for any kind of trip.

During my trips, I love to be stylish as I put a lot of effort into my appearance. But I also love to be comfortable because I literally walk around the cities for over six hours. There’s nothing as uncomfortable as your shoulder or elbow hurting from carrying uncomfortable bags for long periods. Plus, backpacks free your hands so you can take the best photos or simply use the maps on your phone.

So, why Backpacks?

Why not?

• They’re comfortable; You could have them on your back all the day without really feeling any pain.
• They’re spacious: You can fit all the essential necessities you’ll need on your trip without the need for an extra bag.
• They’re compact; There’re just about the side of a large Tote bag but with straps.

While I used to have a love-hate relationship with backpacks, I feel like I appreciate them a lot more now.

Here is the Essential Backpack Packing List for your next Day Trip

When going on day trips, there are certain things you need to have in your backpack to ensure that your trip is a smooth success. These are must-have items that I absolutely cannot do without. Right now, I know them by heart so much that when it’s time for my next trip, I know what to pack without hesitation.

Over time, I’ve perfected my backpack packing list to include the main necessities. While I would love to pack my iPad to entertain myself on the trains, it’s not worth the weight for two – three-hour journeys. So, my phone would do just fine.

As for my backpack itself, I currently use my Waterproof Camera backpack for now. I take out all the compartments and just use it as a regular backpack.

Without talking too much, let’s get right into it;

Camera

I currently use the Canon 2000D and it’s literally the most important item in my backpack after my iPhone. I take all my travel pictures. Some of which you can see on my travel posts and Unsplash account. So, It’s absolutely necessary to have my camera with me at all times. In fact, one of the reasons why I had to upgrade from a handbag to a shoulder bag was because of how much space my camera took in my bag. It literally took up all the space and there was little to no space left. I use a Camera Pouch Case to protect my camera in my backpack.

Tripod

Ever since I learnt how to take banging photos of myself, I never go on any trip without a tripod. Listen, it is a game-changer especially if you’re shy to ask strangers to take your photos. Now, I just go with my tripod, set it in my favourite location with a nice backdrop and take my photos. Yes, you’ll get scared but who cares? After a few times, you really don’t care about people staring anymore. You just do your thing. In fact, people always think you’re somewhat of a professional when you’re seen whipping out a tripod. Don’t forget your Phone Mount as well.

Pro Tip: Take a video of yourself and screenshot your best photos from there.

Power Bank

So, I’ve tried taking my iPhone charger instead but my power bank has come through for me every single time. This is because it is not all trains that have functional charging ports. I remember how I was almost stranded on one of my trips because my battery died and there was no socket on the train. Ever since then, I’ve dropped my chargers and taken my 10,000 mah power bank. It’s not the lightest. Actually, it’s quite heavy and I’m thinking of getting a 5,000 mah one instead. But it never disappoints me. Don’t forget to get a Power Bank case to store your power bank and cables.

Here are 5 Gadgets To Take When You Travel.

Foldable Shopping Bag

Then, I pack a foldable shopping bag because my backpack is small and compact. As much as I avoid shopping on my trips, I honestly can’t help myself so I just pack it to avoid paying for plastic bags. More often than not, it turns out to be very useful eventually as I always have somewhere to pack my souvenirs.

Smart Watch

If I don’t wear a smartwatch on my trip, I wouldn’t know that I average 20,000 steps in a day. This is such a fun fact for me that I never forget to take my smartwatch on my trip. In fact, a lot of times, I toss it in my backpack so I don’t forget.

Beanie/Muffler

On my last day out in Harrogate, I came home sick because I didn’t wear the appropriate jacket. I also didn’t remember to put a muffler/scarf in my backpack. Anyway, that won’t repeat itself again. Especially now that it is getting colder, make sure you take a scarf and a beanie for the weather.

Here are the Top 5 Packaging Tips for your Holiday.

Smartphone

It goes without saying that you should always have your phone on a day trip. I mean, how else would you navigate your destination without Google Maps? Yes, you can always the Tourist Information Centre and get a physical map but that will simply make you look even more touristy.

Motion Sickness Pills/Mints

If you’re anything like me that suffers from motion sickness, make sure you always pack your pills. Sometimes I forget so I make sure I have a pack of mints in my backpack. It really helps relieve my discomfort.

Here’s how to Pack for a Last-Minute Weekend Away.

Sunscreen

Yes, you should be wearing sunscreen all year round and not just in the Summer. By default, I always have a bottle of sunscreen in my handbag for reapplication. While I might not reapply as much during the colder months except it’s really sunny, it’s non-negotiable for me during the Summer. Here are 18 Best Drugstore Sunscreens Worth Trying In 2021

Optional cash & coins

I typically don’t carry cash but on some trips, I’ve discovered some street vendors prefer cash or coins. So, I take my coin bag and squeeze in a £5/£10 note in it. It comes in super handy for ice cream or street food.

Miscellaneous items

There are some miscellaneous items that always have to be in my backpack on a day trip. They include;

• Hand cream
• Lip stick/loss/balm
• Keys
• Face masks
• ID Card
• Pocket tissues
• Travel Cup/Water bottle
• Credit/Debit Cards
• Earphones/Airpods

In Conclusion,

I hope you have found this post on the essential backpack packing list on a day trip useful. A quick hack that works for me is transferring the content of my main handbag into my backpack and including my gadgets. In all, I try not to carry too much and just stick to the essentials. The lighter your backpack is, the further you can go without discomfort.