Going backpacking? Not sure of what to put in that backpack of yours? Well, the most important thing to remember is that you are going to be carrying it around all the time, so it's important to keep it as light as possible. However, as any boy scout will tell you, it's important to Be Prepared as well! Here are few ideas to get you started:



? If you like a tipple, take your own bottle opener. These are available as key rings, which saves you hunting about.

? Bring a pack of cards. It's a great way to make new friends, and is especially useful for when you're on the move or in a hostel without television.

? What sarong with you? (Sorry!). Seriously though, the sarong is the swiss army knife of garments. Sarongs can be put to a lot of different uses ? a belt, a sun shade, a blanket for the beach, or best of all, a curtain for a bottom bunk.

? Take a book to write in while you're away. It's a great way to while away your idle hours, and it'll be a treasure trove to you by the time you reach old age and have forgotten everything you've done and everyone you've met. It'll also come in very handy if you ever end up as a travel writer!

? Transfer any liquids, such as shampoo or liquid soap, into empty plastic water bottles. The bottles that they come in are generally designed for easy opening, which is great in the shower but not so good when it's leaking all over your bag. Don't be tempted to take glass bottles, as not only do they weigh a ton, but they also make a real mess when they break.

? When you're in a fast food restaurant or caf?, grab all the free ketchup, salt, pepper, sugar, jam, and sauces that you can without running the risk of getting arrested. It's supposed to be free, so make the most of it!

? Make sure you have a roll of toilet paper with you at all times. You'll need it for sneezing into, jotting down ideas, cleaning your face after eating, wiping up spills, and covering wounds, as well as wiping yourself in dubious facilities.