We have all been there and its really not a pleasant experience. Having a sour aroma hanging over you like a veil of shame can be humiliating for you, but most importantly offensive to those around you.

Personal hygiene is of utmost importance – particularly when backpacking and sharing living space with many others. Consider this ultimate toiletries packing list for your next trip, these are the only things you’ll ever need to avoid being that smelly backpacker.

Apply twice daily for maximum effect.

Roll-On Deodorant and Anti-Perspirant

Never leave the house without this. Seriously. Unlike aerosol sprays, you are permitted to bring roll-on with you in carry-on luggage. Not to mention it is lightweight and serves as a deodorant AND an anti-perspirant. And due to its roll-on nature, you apply only what is necessary and a single roll-on can last two or more months!

Cotton Tips

Ever accidentally looked down the ear of a fellow human being and been so utterly disgusted at the sight of such filth lurking in the depths of the inner canal? Hmm, well do yourself a favour and carry at least a handful of cotton tips. These days you can buy packs of 20, perfect for travel. I carry 100 tips in a ziplock bag and it lasts for ages, also very lightweight. You can use them for other things too, like applying ointment or cream to cuts and grazes.

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

This goes without saying. ‘Nuff said.

Shaving Oil

Smaller than a can of shaving cream, much lighter too. This stuff can be used for more than 100 shaves! I have a beard now, so I don’t use it anymore, but when I was in Europe this was definitely a practical way to carry much needed shaving apparel.

Tweezers

This one is optional, but I carry them in case I need to battle it out with stray eyebrow hairs daring to meet each other in the middle. Oft times do battle with ingrown hairs and having tweezers in hand is certainly a thankful luxury.

Beeswax Lip Balm

Dry lips? Raw nostrils from blowing your nose? Beeswax Lip Balm will be your lifeline to relief from dryness. Apply twice daily for maximum effect. Now, get those duck lips photo-ready.

3-in-1 Shower Gel

A backpacker’s biggest concern is keeping his/her bag weight and belongings to a minimum. With this beauty you’ll knock out three unnecessary bathroom items, instead carry one. Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Gel all in a single mixture that you can use to lather up your whole body – even those hard to reach places.