I’m currently on a 4-month backpacking trip around Southeast Asia — Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Japan.

And honestly… it’s not always what it looks like online.

Everyone glamorises it, but there are so many things no one tells you.

These are the tips and tricks I really wish I knew before coming.

1. Pack light — but pack smart

Yes, you’ve heard this a million times, but it’s about knowing what’s actually worth bringing.

I’m travelling with a 40L backpack, and it’s been perfect.

What I wish I’d brought more of:

• Comfy bikinis (this is the MOST important thing)
• Cute but light going-out clothes (mini dresses, floaty tops)
• Things you can take nice photos in without overheating

Game changers:

• A laundry bag (I’ve seen people washing clothes in 7-Eleven bags… don’t do that 😖)
• Packing cubes — even if you have space, they keep everything organised

2. Download these apps BEFORE you arrive

These have saved me so much stress.

TravelSpend

An absolute lifesaver for budgeting. It tracks:

• daily spend