The "PILGRIM's KNAPSACK" is a spiritual Travel blog by a Roman Catholic priest that focuses on the pilgrimage of life as he travels mainly in the Philippines and also in other parts of the world wherever God asked him to go. It is basically a cool website to reflect and explore the history, customs, traditions, and the people of a place; backpacking the WORD of THE LORD. Life is not just a mere journey but a pilgrimage, a journey of holiness. That makes life exciting!

"TRAVEL LIGHT!" is the simplest yet a great principle in traveling. It is about preparing the necessary things beforehand and anticipating travel needs. Whatever's inside your knapsack or any bag for that matter depends on where you are traveling. Going to the beach is different from hiking up the mountain. Long travels are different from short distance travels.

Here are some basic stuff that I put inside my knapsack. Again, travel needs depend on the person himself. When traveling as a group, consider all other stuff such as food, water, beverages, candies, tent, beach ball, group discount coupon, and all other things that might be needed.

By the way, most of the stuff enumerated here are meant for local travels. You definitely need something bigger than a knapsack for international travel!

CLOTHES, APPARELS, UNDERWEAR

Determine the duration of your stay. Then, estimate the number of clothes that you might need. I usually prefer fewer clothes but I Bring some detergent powder just in case (he he he). There are available disposable undies as well. Caps, shades, and visors are good for summer outing.

THE HOLY ROSARY

I always bring along my rosary when traveling. Pray for a safe journey and reflect on how blessed you are. Let us always be thankful for the opportunity to travel.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND TICKETS

These are very important especially for international and local travels. Airplane or reserved bus ticket must be kept in a proper place. Prepare exact toll rates.

TOILETRIES

Bring along travel-size toiletries. Don't rely on what the hotel may provide. Suntan lotions, mosquito repelling ointment and hand sanitizer may come handy. Of course, consider the basic first such as soap, shampoo and toothpaste. Don't forget your toothbrush, towel and shaver (if your male). Determine the airline policy regarding toiletries through their website when traveling by air.

FOOD, WATER, MEDICATION

Bring something to eat like candies. Most especially, bring a bottled water to replenish the water loss as you travel. I buy water inside the lounge. Bring along the basic and prescribed medications. A medicine kit may be of help for hikers.

DIGICAM, MP3 PLAYER, COMMUNICATION GADGETS, PC, IPAD

We don't have to bring our laptops all the time. A simple cellphone to communicate is enough. Don't forget the charger. Although MP3 players are not essential, some would prefer to listen to music while traveling or sunbathing. The most important gadget for me is the cellphone with a digital camera to document the event. Check out the battery and its peripherals before traveling.

FOOTWEAR AND SOCKS

I usually wear rubber shoes and bring "versatile" slippers that can be used on the beach, in casual gatherings and even in the toilet. Don't forget the socks when you wear your shoes. Otherwise, you'll easily get stinky.

CASH, DRIVER'S LICENSE, ID's, CREDIT CARDS, DISCOUNT CARDS, ATM AND OTHER CARDS

It's important to bring your wallet with cash and credit card/s. You may want to buy a souvenir or pay your hotel bills through credit card. Sometimes, ID's are important, too. If you have Privilege cards, Senior Citizen card, discount cards, etc. bring them with you. You don't know when you will be needing them.

TRAVEL GUIDES, MAPS, ITINERARIES

Bring your travel guide and map; and on a piece of paper write down the address of the place where you are staying, contact persons, itinerary, plan, etc. Print your researches about the place as well.

OTHER STUFF

Depending on the person's need, consider other stuff like watch, contact lens and solution, eye wear, shades, visor, cellphone charger, towel, pen, papers, and books among other things. Notes and pen might be needed from time to time.

Well, that's all I have inside my knapsack! Travel light. Travel safe. Travel with a grateful heart!