Fat Passport

Item

Comments and where to buy

Laundry detergent

A small pack of powder detergent is handy for cleaning clothes in the sink. No need to bring much as you can easily buy more on the road.

Guidebook

Lonely Planet and Rough Guide are both generally very good for independent travelers; Eyewitness Guides and Fodor's are good if you're on a group/escorted tour. All are available at Amazon.

Swiss Army Knife

A Swiss Army Knife somehow always comes in handy. Can only pack in checked bag.

Notebook

A small (e.g. 6”x9”) notebook is always handy

Alarm clock

Needs to be small and rugged. May be in your cell-phone, if not then check Magellans.

Pens

Bring a couple of pens (cheap ones if you tend to lose things!)

Reading

Books can be heavy and take up space, so I bring at most two books, then buy or trade for others on the road. Guidebooks often suggest good reading for your destination; also try going to Amazon, search on your destination, and check their user ratings/reviews of books associated with that destination. Another option to consider is Audiobooks on your iPod.

Pocket flashlight

A mini-flashlight is useful in third-world countries, where streets may be rough and poorly lit.

Pocket umbrella

If it might rain where you're going, then a simple, non-descript Pocket Umbrella is worth bringing along. I prefer an umbrella instead of a pancho, which can be hot and uncomfortable.

Generic sink plug

A generic sink plug is surprisingly useful as many sinks don’t have plugs.

Clothes line

Very useful to have a clothes line for when you do your own clothes.

Plastic bags

Bring a few zip-lock plastic bags. They take no space, and somehow always seem to come in handy.

Antibacterial wipes

Antibacterial wipes are very handy when you can’t easily wash your hands.

Tissues

Always carry a small pack of tissues for various uses, including emergency toilet paper.

Inflatable pillow

An Inflatable Neck Cushion takes minimal space, and can be handy on flights or trains.

Sewing kit

A tiny sewing kit with just needle and thread will do fine.

Eyeglasses

If you struggle without glasses, then consider bringing a second pair, and/or your prescription.

Ear plugs

Low-cost, lightweight ear plugs can sometimes be incredibly handy.