<<<What should I take travelling?>>>

That is way to broad of a question. That's like asking 'where should I go for dinner?' and then leaving it open to anywhere in the world.

You need to figure out your trip before you figure out what to take for it. Where are you going (more specific than just the continents), what time of year, what kind of budget (backpacker vs luxury), what are your interests (staying in cities or out in more rural areas and hiking), are you traveling alone, etc. How will you be getting around (public transit means you probably want a carryon size bag/backpack)?


Once you get your trip figured out, then look for items that fit your needs. Remember to layer clothes... you don't need big bulky sweaters if you layer them over a camisole and a long sleeve t-shirt. Take things that can be mixed and matched as you'll want to be able to wear every top with every bottom. Shoes add a LOT of space and weight so plan on taking 2-3 pairs of shoes/sandals max. I usually go with a pair of walking shoes, a pair of walking sandals, and (if needed) a pair of dressy sandals/flats.


As for how much you'll pay, it depends on what you get and where you get it from. I generally don't buy any special clothes to travel, I just pull stuff out of my closet.

You really don't need anything more than a passport, money, ATM card/credit card, and a plane ticket. A backpack with some clothes is good too.

the basic needs:

a small first aid kit. you'll need it most: band aids, topical antibiotics. Don't forget your medicines (if you are on maintenance), you might have a hard time purchasing the same if you are in another country..and something for LBM
...just in case

See my packing lists at http://mytimetotravel.wordpress.com/2010/02/08/what-to-take-part-one/

I've done long RTWs with them. But short answer is "as little as possible, resupply en route".

Follow the old adage, take Less Clothes, Bring More Money - actually in this day and age you don't need too much cash - you can use ATM's Debit & Credit Cards all over the world.