D I S T I N C T L Y M O N T A N A
S P R I N G | 2 0 1 5
2 1
Gal
bRING SAfeT Y PINS
AND A SCARf
Safety pins are the backpacker
fix-all. Use them for wardrobe, backpack, or purse malfunctions,
to fix sunglasses (they can take the place of a screw), and most
importantly to lock zippers (yes—a safety pin properly affixed
prevents a zipper from opening—don't make it easy for people
to steal from you). On that note, bonus tip: always bring a purse
that zips closed.
A scarf is essential for its versatility. Use it as an extra layer if
you're cold, an accessory to an outfit, a wrap if you need to cover
up to enter cathedrals, mosques, monasteries, etc., a towel if you
find yourself without one, and use it as a sheet if you want to
cover up your hostel or hotel pillow.
LeGGINGS ARe GeNIuS fOR TRAveLING
Cotton/spandex leggings are the perfect bottoms for
traveling. They are comfortable, stylish, and pack lighter
and smaller than jeans. Generally, leggings should be
worn with tops that cover your bottom because it's more socially
acceptable (even if it's just a long tank top). If you don't have
enough tops like this, the cheat around that is to bring a cotton
spandex mini skirt that can be worn over the leggings, looks nice,
and hardly takes up any space to pack. The skirt also doubles for
dressy bottoms if necessary.
For more packing tips just like this, check out my Web site post
"Ninja Packing Tips: Packing List for Europe in Just a 30L Back-
pack" and subscribe to my newsletter to get a free download of
Ninja Packing Tips: How to Pack for 2 Weeks in a Tropical Destina-
tion in Just a 30L Backpack
JACKIe
LAuLAINeN
has been back-
packing the world
since 2003. Author
of The Aspiring
Traveler's Handbook: A Preparation
Guide to International Travel, she
started the site TheBudgetMind-
edTraveler.com which is a travel
blog and podcast designed to equip
and inspire Americans to travel the
world, on a budget. She is also a
freelance writer for Yahoo Travel,
and when she's not traveling the
world, you can find her exploring
her own beautiful backyard of
Bozeman.
T WO WAYS TO
LO CK YOuR
zIPPeRS WITh A
SAfeT Y PIN
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