Initial thoughts on what to pack.

Well, I have finally put some thought into what to pack. Two weeks in Europe has to be done on one backpack in order to be manageable. I initially thought a 60 liter backpack was the way to go but after checking several forums and talking with other backpackers, I am confident that the 40 liter is the way to go. Anybody I have talked to that gives me advice says over packing was their biggest problem on their first trip.

I have decided to go with the North Face Terra 60 as my backpack. I tried on several different backpacks at Gander Mountain and Dicks Sporting Goods. I found that the shoulder straps are the weak point in many packs. The suspension on the Terra 60 is incredible, and the waist belt is made of a really soft almost gel like material. It can expand as needed and has lots of adjustments so you can get that perfect fit on your back.

So enough about the backpack. Here is my initial list of what I am packing. Any advice?

* One pair of khaki north face pants/zipoff to shorts
* One pair cargo shorts
* 3-4 north face/under armor moisture wicking shirts
* 3-4 boxers
* 3-4 pairs of socks
* Sandals
* Light shell, one long sleeve shirt
* Sneakers (will purchase new and wear in one week prior)
* Small thin towel
* Camera and iphone, small headphones, ipod. (possibly netbook/high def camcorder)
* Lightweight daypack, padlock.
* Toiletries, toothbrush and paste, chapstick, tanning lotion, deodorant, shampoo, soap, asprin, antacid, ear plugs. (I plan to pack very light on all of this and pick them up over there. That way I can discard them before I board the plane to come home.)
* Sunglasses, money belt
* One credit card, one atm, some cash, two id's, passport, plane tickets.
* Guidebook and .pdf cheat sheet (which I am currently writing, will post later)

Ryan

Passport should be here shortly.

Well, my passport is now en route. It should be here in about two weeks. I went to the local US post office to order one. For those of you who are interested in international travel, you better plan at least 4-6 weeks in advance.

Here is what you'll need for a first time applicant:

* A completed DS-11 application form.
* One of the following: Previously issued and undamaged U.S. Passport, Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth Naturalization Certificate or a Certificate of Citizenship.
* If you apply in person, you will also need 2 photos, a drivers license, military or government ID.
* You will also have to pay a fee, which is about $100.00.