Here is a suggested packing list for the average backpacker. Obviously the
requirements differ from person to person and also depending on where you are
going. To be honest if you don't know what to take, perhaps you should stay at
home.
Plenty of film / several memory cards
Belt
Wide brimmed compactable hat
String
Travel Wash
Small Nailbrush (good for cleaning cuts etc. + nails)
Hanging toilet bag
Normal toilet bag
Medical kit (including Imodium, paracetamol, syringes, etc.)
Sun creams 25, 16, 8
Anti-malarial prophylaxis
Regional travel guide
Reading material / nothing scandalous
Water bottle (e.g. Sigg)
Water purification treatment
Small sewing kit
ISIC card or something that says you are a student
Mosquito repellant - DEET
Small torch (maglite is good, head strap is useful)
Batteries (for all different equipment)
Passport photos
Universal sink plug
Swiss army knife
Travel alarm clock
Books
Wallet
Clip money belt
Ziploc Freezer bags
Sarong
Sleeping bag liner
Sleeping bag (small) (3 season +15 - -10 )
Decent walking boots (hard sole e.g. Vibram)
Decent sandals e.g. Merrell not Nike etc.
Biros
Deck of cards
Small notepad
Diary
Decent walking Socks
Underwear
Shorts
Trousers (Convertible ones are good, where the legs unzip to make shorts)
T-Shirts (cotton)
Swimming costume
Casual shirt or other loose top
Lightweight Fleece jacket
Lightweight Waterproof jacket
Thermal underwear (if going to particularly cold or high places)
Fleece Gloves
Warm hat
Daypack - aprox 35 litre (so can use for short treks)
Backpack - 65 litre+ (suitcase style-not top loading)
Decent toilet paper (it'll be the last for a while)
Waterproof watch with glass face (DEET melts plastic)
General toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush)
Small hairbrush
Doorstop (prevents unwanted visitors, if no lock on door)