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[johntorti]

Hey guys,

I’m going to be backpacking SE Asia for two months, starting in June (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia). I plan on doing quite a bit of trekking, and am not sure if bringing a daypack is worth it or not.

I’m thinking of brining my Camelbak, which has a few pouches on it to hold day & overnight gear – and would be perfect for the treks (not to mention flights/travel if I have to check my 70L bag). But the downside would be it would take up a good amount of space and weight in my main pack… so do I just use my main pack for everything???

Also, how secure are the mid-range hostel/guesthouses? Can I even leave my pack in my room when I’m gone?

Any insight you may have on this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

[aopaq]

I would definitely say that having a small daypack would be worthwhile but I think you might consider something smaller than your Camelback especially if it will take up that much space and weight in your main pack. I would certainly not want to be taking my main 70L bag for trekking around.

As for the security of hostels and guesthouses, my question is more what are you bringing that you would be so worried about losing? If you have a daypack you can keep your money, passport, camera, mobile phone and most other valuables with you so security should not be so much an issue. Therefore, if you leave your bag in the room and it mostly just contains clothes, it will be of little interest to any thieves.

[ScottWoz]

Great advice. Take it..

[johntorti]

Thanks guys! These are some great ideas ...I appreciate the help!