3 Things I Used Every Day While Backpacking in Asia (under $20)

Backpacking in Asia is all about packing smart—you want to be prepared, but every extra ounce in your bag matters. Through trial and error (and a few regrettable packing decisions), here are the three items (under $25) I reached for every single day. If you’re heading out on your own adventure, consider these absolute must-haves.

1. Alcohol Swabs

I credit my consistent use of alcohol swabs and hand sanitizer as the reason I never got sick when I backpacked through Asia—especially because you're handling cash much more frequently than you do in the states. Alcohol swabs were a game-changer—I used them to clean my electronics (daily), and even disinfect random cuts that seemed to appear out of nowhere. They’re small, light, and infinitely useful.

Find it on Amazon ($6)

2. Carabiner

CALLING ALL OVERPACKERS: This one’s for you. I threw a carabiner into my bag because TikTok told me to, but I didn’t think I’d actually use it. I quickly learned that it's popularity is justified. As someone who insists on bringing just one more thing (even when my backpack is already at max capacity), carabiners were a lifesaver. I clipped wet swimsuits to the outside of my bag when they didn’t have time to dry, strapped on extra shoes that technically didn’t fit but definitely needed to come with me, and kept my water bottle within reach at all times. For something so tiny, it made a massive difference.

Find it on Amazon ($7)

3. Microfiber Body and Hair Towels

When I think of hostel or hotel towels, my first thought is ew. They are always too small, too thin, too rough, and too communal for my tastes. And you usually only get one! Packing my own microfiber towels saved me from that daily disaster—they absorbed water fast, stayed put without slipping, dried way quicker than regular towels, and are great for beach and/or bathroom. I used the Kitch Head Towel and a Microfiber Body Towel from Amazon. It's worth the real estate it takes up in your bag (which isn't much because they are so thin).

Find the Kitsch Microfiber Hair Towel on their website ($23), Ulta Beauty ($23), or Amazon ($20)

Find the Microfiber Body Towel on Amazon ($9)

BONUS: Typically in Asia, getting your laundry done at a local shop is quick, cheap, and easy. Despite this, I found myself in a pinch on several occasions, and found these laundry leaves to be a saving grace for a quick wash in the sink ($15 on Amazon)