Have you ever gotten to your destination, only to realize you brought the wrong type of bag? Whether it’s a day out with friends or an overnight work trip, there are situations where carrying anything but a backpack can come back to bite you. No matter what kind of bag you’re planning to take on your next excursion, this ultimate packing list will ensure that you’re prepared to handle just about anything that comes your way.
Shoes & Accessories
Pack a pair of shoes that are good for walking in any weather. This means sturdy, closed-toe shoes. They don’t have to be running shoes (though it’s always great to have those on hand), just something with good traction that will keep your feet dry and warm when the weather is bad. If you’re going somewhere like the Grand Canyon where there might be snow or if it looks like rain, bring an extra pair of socks too!
-One thing that you’ll see people carrying around on backpack day is their water bottle. I recommend bringing one with an insulated sleeve so it doesn’t get too cold or hot.
Weather Gear
For anything but a backpack day, you will need:
- A good pair of rain boots or shoes that can get wet and not leak so you don’t get your socks wet!
- A waterproof jacket or windbreaker for when the weather is cold, rainy, or just unpredictable. Consider keeping it in your bag to use as needed!
Liquids & Gels
Liquids and gels are typically the largest volumes of items that you’ll need to pack. Be mindful of the 3-1-1 rule when traveling with liquids (3.4 ounces or 100-milliliter container per 1-quart bag) and remember to put them in a clear bag so they’re easily scanned at security checkpoints. Here’s what to bring for anything but a backpack day:
-Sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, face lotion, and antibacterial gel for hands
Miscellaneous Items
Some of these items may seem unnecessary for this type of day, but to really enjoy an ‘anything but a backpack day’ you need the right equipment. In addition, the point is to set yourself apart and look stylish while doing so. Remember that there are no rules when it comes to what you bring with you!
- A DSLR camera (even if your plan is only to snap quick shots)
- An umbrella in case of rain or if you need shade in the event heat becomes unbearable
- Earphones or headphones in order to block out any external noise and focus on your own music
- Jumper cables and water, just in case someone’s car dies while out with you!
Ideas for anything but a backpack day
The one day you don’t have to worry about bringing your backpack is anything but a backpack day. Here’s Ideas for anything but a backpack day:
- A long-sleeved shirt for sun protection, an extra pair of pants, and some socks for when the weather changes.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- Extra water bottle. – Some trail snacks like bananas, apples, or granola bars that are easy to carry. – A light jacket in case it gets cool later in the day and rain gear in case it rains on your way home from school.
Day to Enjoy
On any day you are not wearing your backpack, you should be wearing at least one of these four things: – A hat to keep the sun off your head. – Sunglasses to keep the sun out of your eyes. – Chapstick to protect your lips and make them feel good. – Sunscreen to prevent sunburns and skin cancer.
How it feels to be a part of a backpack Party
I’m not sure about you, but for me, any day without my trusty backpack is an Anything But A Backpack Day. I’ve been through thick and thin with my backpack, from freezing Canadian winters to the world’s worst thunderstorms. It has never let me down and it’s always there when I need it most.
I can’t even imagine how much planning would be needed if you were limited to carrying around just one bag all day long – what clothes would you wear? What would you use as your school/work bag? How would you carry your books and laptop? And don’t even get me started on how stressful airports are these days!