Sorting transport for Backpacking Southeast Asia? Compare rental cars with Carla — book now, pay later.
Carla Car RentalCar hire — Carla
Compare rental cars for Backpacking Southeast Asia — Book Now, Pay Later.
Find a car ›As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate publisher and AWIN publisher, we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links. Full disclosure.
🛒 Top picks for this trip
✅ Essentials Checklist
👕 Clothing Checklist
⭐ Nice to Have
Flights — SUMMER50 deal
Search 500+ airlines. Save up to $50 with code SUMMER50.
Search flights › AWIN · AirparksUK airport parking
Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham, Glasgow, Newcastle — book ahead and save.
Compare parking › AWIN · Priceino HolidayBook your accommodation
Compare hotels, apartments and holiday lets for this trip before you lock in dates.
Compare stays ›Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosure
AWIN · TEFL InstituteThinking about teaching English abroad?
Get TEFL certified online before you go — many teaching jobs in this region require it.
See TEFL courses ›✈️ Search and book cheap flights with Ovago — 500+ airlines, no hidden fees
Frequently Asked Questions
How big a backpack do I need for Southeast Asia?
40–55 litres is the sweet spot. Bigger and it becomes a burden on local transport and tight hostel stairs. Smaller and you'll struggle with laundry between washes. Front-loading (clamshell opening) backpacks are easier to pack and access than top-loaders. A smaller 10–15L daypack that attaches to the front is useful for daily sightseeing.
Should I take USD to Southeast Asia?
Yes — USD is widely accepted as a secondary currency in Cambodia (almost entirely USD-based), Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar. In Thailand and Indonesia, local currency is preferred but USD exchanges easily. Take a supply of clean, unfolded USD bills (post-2006 printing) — damaged or old notes are sometimes refused.
Is it safe to eat street food in Southeast Asia?
Generally yes — and it's some of the best food you'll eat. The rule of thumb: busy stalls with high turnover are safer than quiet ones. Food cooked fresh in front of you is safer than pre-cooked food sitting out. Avoid salads washed in tap water. Your stomach will need a week or so to adapt — mild stomach issues in the first week are almost universal.
Check the weather and best time to visit before you finalise your Backpacking Southeast Asia packing list — and see country facts and travel info for entry requirements and local tips.
Not sure which suitcase size or clothing sizes you need? Check 247Sizing's luggage and clothing size guides before you pack.