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[shangguan]

Hi Rauri,
I'd also really recommend a good backpack. I would also suggest that you don't take one of those gigantic ones that many backpackers carry with them. They're murder to try to haul around with you. I'd suggest a decent sized backpack, but not one that is going to be a hinderance. Since you'll be doing a lot of hiking and are not going with a travel company, a big backpack is just too much of a pain in the pigu. I would suggest deciding exactly what you absolutely must take with you and buy a backpack that'll fit it. Then when you are here, buy another one to carry all of the stuff you buy. Remember when packing don't pack toiletries, or towels. Those things you can get here at usually cheaper prices.

A secret I learned with backpacks is to carry a bunch of zip strips with you to lock your bag zippers. They'll allow you to lock your bag very securely and are easy to replace. Also, you don't have to fiddle with keys or combinations. They're also great for adding things to your bag. Things like umbrellas, hats, etc that you don't want to carry. You can just zip strip them to your backpack.

[rauri]

Hi Rauri,
I'd also really recommend a good backpack. I would also suggest that you don't take one of those gigantic ones that many backpackers carry with them. They're murder to try to haul around with you. I'd suggest a decent sized backpack, but not one that is going to be a hinderance. Since you'll be doing a lot of hiking and are not going with a travel company, a big backpack is just too much of a pain in the pigu. I would suggest deciding exactly what you absolutely must take with you and buy a backpack that'll fit it. Then when you are here, buy another one to carry all of the stuff you buy. Remember when packing don't pack toiletries, or towels. Those things you can get here at usually cheaper prices.

A secret I learned with backpacks is to carry a bunch of zip strips with you to lock your bag zippers. They'll allow you to lock your bag very securely and are easy to replace. Also, you don't have to fiddle with keys or combinations. They're also great for adding things to your bag. Things like umbrellas, hats, etc that you don't want to carry. You can just zip strip them to your backpack.

Hey Mate,
I'm glad to hear your opinion, and thanks for all your tips. It has helped me a lot.
Once it gets closer to the time, maybe a few months or so, I'll go on a bag hunt; I'll begin looking for the perfect one asap though.

Thank you once again for all your expert advice

[starlagurl]

We all wanna know which one you end up going with, make sure you let us know!

[rauri]

We all wanna know which one you end up going with, make sure you let us know!

Will do!
Once I find the exact one I'll let you know. I'm busy with exams around this time, so after that I'll have time to go 'back-pack' hunting haha.
Rauri