American Express Card Don't leave home without it. 3 blank checks from your home bank With your American Express card, you can write a check on your home account at any AMEX office and purchase more Travelers checks. Travelers checks Several months worth. You don't need a big suitcase, especially if you are going to be gone for a while. Your bag should have backpack straps that you can tuck away when going thru immagration.
Wheels are optional.
1 Nametag for pack Get something better than those paper ones the airlines give you at the airport. Sleeping Bag This is definitely optional. You could instead take a polypropylene sleeping bag liner instead - smaller and lighter and usually good enough. Or just do without. It's nice to have separate bags in the main compartment of your pack for similiar items.