I was looking over the stuff that I had purchased for Japan, and I realized there were a few things that I didn’t really use. So I just wanted to write about some of those articles that came in handy and some that were just a waste of money, or extra weight on the pack.
First and foremost lets begin with all the goodies:
Packing Cubes: These were extremely useful with the fact that everything was always very organized. Therefore when it was time to pack and go it was always done very quickly. Aside from their practicality they just made things quick in revision with the customs.
Japanese: Lonely Planet Phrasebook: Although I really didn’t use this much while walking around in the streets of Japan. It did come handy in the way I memorized some of the phrases in there. Which in the end helped simplify things sometimes.
Gorillapod: This mini tripod helped while filming. It doubled as a miniature monopod which helped keep a steadier shot while walking and filming. Makes it easier to the audience when they aren’t getting motion sickness ala Blair Witch Project.
Let’s go over the wasted money, or excess weight:
Monster Portable Power Strip: If you plan on visiting Japan keep in mind that all of the United States products are compatible with their wall sockets. Now the only difference is the fact that they don’t have the little hole in the middle (I think its for grounding). So in this case the Monster Strip was useless and extra weight and space. Though I must say it is a great product if you travel within the U.S.
Master Lock Luggage Locks: The customs agents and revision agents advice you to take them off while checking in any large luggage at the Air Port. Luckily I found this out before heading off and left these behind. In is very safe and don’t expect anyone really going through your stuff at the hostels there.
Compass Travel Pack 29": This is somewhat of a mixed feeling. Your backpack when backpacking (duh!), is the most essential thing you’ll be carrying of course. So it can make or break your trip while you are trekking around with it on your back. Personally I would go with something a bit smaller in size, due to its weight and size. I had the problem of stuffing it with clothes when I really should have just carried 2 to 3 clothes changes, and they very bare essentials. The mini day pack attached to it was great and very useful while sight seeing. It held my camera and gorillapod, water, snacks, and at times a sweater. Personally the pack is great if you are only staying at one place but for my use where moving around a lot was a daily thing I would say go with maybe the 23" version of this pack.
Experience is what makes you learn best I know now what to carry and what not to. If you are considering a back pack trip to Japan take my recommendation in mind but please don’t let me stop you.
