What I Packed in My 40L Bag

After watching countless TikTok videos on “what to pack for a 6 month backpacking trip” I convinced myself that I could pack everything I needed within a 40 litre bag (much to Aruns surprise).

Perhaps it was Arun telling me I wouldn’t be able to fit everything in that made to want to do it more, or perhaps it was the thought of not having to carry a big heavy bag for 6 months - who knows, but I managed it & here’s how.

I got the ‘FORCLAZ 40L Backpacking Travel 500’ from Decathlon - £59.99.

It is super comfy and opens like a suitcase (big bonus!).  It has three compartments inside, with two smaller compartments on the outside (perfect for last minute items to be put in!).

Since we’re spending six months traveling around India and Southeast Asia, I packed light with warmer weather in mind:

• Bottoms: 2 linen trousers, 1 silk trousers, 1 denim shorts, 2 linen shorts, 1 skirt

• Tops & Dresses: 2 vests, 1 black T-shirt, 1 leotard, 1 strapless top, 1 LBD ;-)

• Swimwear: 2 bikinis, 1 swimsuit

• Layers: 1 jumper (worn while traveling), 1 tracksuit bottoms (also for travel), 1 rain jacket

• Extras: Socks, pants

Other essentials I also managed to squeeze in:

• Small makeup bag

• Hairbrush, hair bands, and scrunchies

• 1 pair of sandals and trainers (clipped onto the outside when not in use)

• Sunscreen and a small mirror

I also have a smaller 20L backpack which I have had to squeeze a few items in (battery packs, cables, camera) - but all in all, I think a 40L bag works perfectly for travelling! It limits the amount of stuff you can pack and as a bonus my bag only weights 11KG!

Four Weeks In: The Review

I have been using the bag and all its contents for the last few weeks. I need to pick up another t-shirt (especially as I have been covering shoulders when in India); and apart from hating all my clothes already - I have enough!

We have been getting items washed weekly, so this helps with the rotation of outfits. I also have the added bonus of a few “shared” items in Aruns bag, so I haven’t had to make room for shampoo/conditioner, body wash, toothpaste (but I think I could have reduced some clothes to make space for these if needed!).

Final Thoughts

If you are thinking about getting a 40L bag for your upcoming travels, I would really recommend the FORCLAZ bag & trying to pack light.

I will report back over the next few months for any items missing!