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<\/p>\nWhen I was 23, I came across a quote in a travel magazine that stuck with me:\n\"Three sets of clothes can get you through a week, and if you can make it a week, you can make it a month!\" That single sentence changed the way I travel. After purchasing my very first Osprey 36L backpack, I became a backpacker for life.\nWith that one backpack, I\u2019ve walked the cobbled paths of Southern Europe, endured the scorching heat of West Asia and North Africa, and stayed alert through the unpredictability of South America. I completely fell in love with the freedom and flexibility that minimalist travel brings.<\/p>\n
This trip \u2014 the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan \u2014 was yet another challenge in packing and preparation. From April to May, the temperature varies greatly: chilly mornings and evenings around 6\u00b0C, and daytime highs reaching 25\u00b0C. So, clothing needed to provide both warmth and breathability. Since I\u2019d be walking 15 to 30 kilometers a day while constantly changing accommodation, my top priorities when choosing gear were lightweight and functional.<\/p>\n
Below is a summary of my packing insights and gear list \u2014 perfect for anyone planning a long-distance hike in Japan during spring or autumn, or traveling to dry, cool climates.<\/p>\n
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Keep your backpack\u2019s total weight under one-tenth of your body weight, ideally no more than 7 kg. Since I weigh around 47 kg, staying within that ratio was nearly impossible \u2014 but I still managed to keep my pack at 6.6 kg when I set off. After walking for 45 days, I can confidently say this weight was manageable, even for a petite woman.<\/p>\n
I followed the principle of wear one, carry one \u2014 wearing one set of clothes and carrying one spare \u2014 and relied on mid-layers and a good outer shell for warmth and flexibility.<\/p>\n
Merino wool and odor-resistant fabrics from reputable outdoor brands were my go-to choices for keeping fresh and dry during the long journey.<\/p>\n
I used a 36L lightweight hiking backpack from Osprey, featuring a 3D mesh back panel that provides excellent ventilation and support. I highly recommend buying your backpack in-store rather than online \u2014 visiting an outdoor gear shop allows staff to help adjust the fit and weight distribution, which can significantly reduce strain during long hikes.<\/p>\n
Absolutely essential! Not only does it protect your pack from dirt and dust, but it also keeps your clothes, electronics, and n\u014dky\u014dch\u014d (temple stamp book) dry on rainy days.<\/p>\n
01\uff5cPassport
\n02\uff5cWallet
\n03\uff5cCash & Credit Cards
\n04\uff5cPrinted Itinerary: A digital version is usually sufficient, but having a hard copy can come in handy in areas with limited connectivity.<\/p>\n
Short-Sleeved Shirt \u2013 Montbell wickron\u00ae T-shirt: Breathable and quick-drying; works as both a daytime shirt and sleepwear.
\nLong-Sleeved Thermal Base Layer \u2013 Montbell Zeoline M.W.: Warm, breathable, odor-resistant; dries overnight.
\nWool Long Sleeve Top \u2013 Decathlon FORCLAZ Merino Zip Shirt: Great breathability, warmth, and odor control. Best dried near a dehumidifier or in a well-ventilated area.<\/p>\n
Mid-Layer Fleece \u2013 Decathlon QUECHUA Hiking Fleece: Warm and breathable, ideal for layering.
\nDown Vest \u2013 LATIV Ultra-Light Down Vest: Wind-resistant and cozy \u2014 great for cooler, windy conditions.<\/p>\n
COHIKE Summer Hiking Pants: Quick-drying, breathable, abrasion-resistant.
\nCOHIKE Winter Hiking Pants: Warm, fast-drying, and tough against wear.
\nRegular Athletic Pants: Doubles as loungewear or sleepwear.<\/p>\n
Decathlon FORCLAZ Merino Sports Bra x2: Anti-odor, dries overnight.
\nDecathlon FORCLAZ Merino Underwear x2: Same qualities as above \u2014 minimal, functional, and travel-friendly.<\/p>\n
WOAWOA Wool Toe Socks: Warm, supportive, and great for foot comfort.
\nInjinji Merino Wool Liner Socks: My go-to for about 2\/3 of the journey \u2014 quicker drying and lighter support.
\nRegular Sports Socks: Used indoors or for rest days.<\/p>\n
Main Shoes \u2013 SALOMON Ultra 4: Excellent traction and durability with Gore-Tex waterproofing. Great for wide feet.
\nLight Sandals \u2013 TEVA Hurricane XLT2: Perfect for airing out your feet during breaks; comfortable, sturdy, and grippy.<\/p>\n
I skipped wearing knee braces while walking to stay breathable, but I wore Bogoto knee sleeves before bed each night. They significantly reduced soreness by morning!<\/p>\n
01\uff5cTwo Smartphones
\nMuch of the Shikoku Pilgrimage route passes through rural and mountainous areas where services and stores are limited. Bringing a backup phone is a smart move in case of emergency or technical issues.
\n02\uff5cPower Bank
\n03\uff5cCharging Adapter & Cables<\/p>\n
Since I carried my backpack onto the plane, I packed all liquids in containers under 100 ml. Don\u2019t worry too much about running out \u2014 Japan has plenty of convenience stores and drugstores along the way for easy restocking. I relied on the toiletries provided by hostels and guesthouses for showering needs.<\/p>\n
Medication needs vary by person. During my trip, Japan was experiencing outbreaks of influenza and norovirus-related stomach flu, so I brought: General cold medicine, stomach medication, anti-diarrheal, tamiflu (antiviral). All of these can be obtained in one go from a travel medicine clinic before departure.<\/p>\n