Every trip is different.
You might need a few items more or less, but these are some essential items we like to take with us and recommend for you*:
NON-CAMERA GEAR
Lightweight backpack (or suitcase) for your non-camera items. Try to pack as light as possible. Bags with wheels and backpack straps are awesome!
Lightweight day bag that can fit water, one camera body with lens and an extra lens (especially for hiking)
Separate locks for your baggage and camera bag
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing that folds small
Bathing suit
At least one pair of pants, one pair of long shorts/skirt/dress, one t-shirt, one long-sleeved shirt, rain jacket and one warm sweater/jacket (depending on the weather at your destination, of course!)
Bring culture-specific/culture-appropriate clothing. For PWB School: India, we’ll take you shopping for clothes made by the community members!
Undergarments and at least two pairs of socks
Travel toiletries: consider refillable sets and environmentally-friendly concentrated suds (we love Campsuds).
Tissues and hand sanitizer (without microbeads)
One microfibre towel or sarong (some of us like to use sarongs as towels that we can wear!)
Dessicant packets (in case something important gets wet)
Natural insect spray (no DEET--it's bad for the environment and your camera gear)
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or more)
Versatile shoes. We love shoes that are lightweight and good in all weather, like Keen hiking boots or Keen water shoes/sandals
Unlocked phone (if you want a local SIM card and data package, which is usually much cheaper than roaming)
Flashlight/headlamp
A hat/toque in case it gets cold
Stomach/diarrhea and headache medication. These are the most common issues while travelling
Two copies of your passport, travel documents, insurance, etc - one on your person and one in your bag
Reusable water bottle!
CAMERA GEAR
Durable bag for your camera and other related items.
At least one body (required)
A good portrait lens (required)
Tripod (highly recommended but not required)
At least one good telephoto, one good macro, one good wide and other lens favourites are recommended but not required
Weatherproof daypack
Small laptop for editing (highly recommended)
Extra batteries and memory cards (required)
Portable hard drive to back up memory cards (highly recommended!)
Lens cleaning equipment
Protection for your camera so you can shoot in the rain. We love the simple $10 rain covers available at most camera stores
Personal equipment insurance (highly recommended; PWB is not responsible for lost or stolen items)
*Unless indicated, these are recommendations only and you are not necessarily required to purchase or bring these items.