If you know me, you will know this is a challenge that I will either overcome or end up lugging a 500lb backpack around with me and eventually end up looking like the Terminator. Thirteen months of travel means approximately 390 days of clothing. My wardrobe can handle about this, my shoulders cannot. In my regular life I have a new outfit for everyday and every occasion. New learning will come to wearing the same 2-4 outfits for at least six months. Enter: The Simplified Life.

My packing will be divided in two parts: 1) minimalist hiking in warm weather and 2) minimalist hiking in very cold weather.

Minimalist Hiking in Warm Weather

day backpack (Deuter choice)

2 pairs hiking shorts

1 long comfortable pant

2 short sleeved shirts – wicking fabric

1 thermal light long sleeve

soft shell water resistant jacket

travel dress

3 pairs blister free ankle socks – Wright Sock (my choice)

3 underwear, 2 sports bra

hiking shoes

hiking sandals

swim suit

Water bottle and hydration pack

hat

sunglasses

travel towel

sheet liner

First Aid pack

head lamp and batteries

granola bars, snacking oats mix, fruit nut variety, energy chews and powders for water

toiletries

prescriptions

book – personal reading

book – Camino Guide

iPhone

laptop

journal and pen

Minimalist Hiking in Cold Weather

All of the above plus:

hiking boots

Insulated down coat

long sleeve fleece

fleece pants

2 base layer long sleeve shirts and pants (Icebreaker choice)

wind and water resistance pants

waterproof warm mittens (Canada Goose choice)

fleece wind proof gloves

warm hat

balaclava

big backpack (Patagonia choice)

**there are some things I will be renting from the tour companies so I do not have to carry the items all 13 months:

sleeping bag

ice-axe

crampons

snow gaiters

trekking poles

harness

carabiners

Some added items in the big backpack:

yoga pants and top

camel pants

a second dress

jean shorts

flip flops

dress shirt

This is my life for 13 months in two backpacks. Living life on just the essentials is an added adventure to this already ultimate expedition! Challenge accepted.