Do I really need a money belt?

No. A hidden passport pouch or simply keeping your cards and cash in a locked internal bag pocket is safer and more comfortable in the humidity.

Is it better to take a suitcase or backpack?

Backpack. Many Southeast Asian streets are unpaved, uneven, or prone to flooding. You do not want to be dragging a roller bag through a muddy monsoon alley.

How to Pack for Backpacking Southeast Asia

Limit your pack to 40 liters or less to avoid checked baggage fees and stay mobile. Focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics and pack for only one week of clothes regardless of your trip length.

Choose the right pack. Get a 35-40 liter front-loading travel backpack. Front-loading is non-negotiable; it functions like a suitcase, making it easier to find your gear than digging into a top-loading hiking bag.
Use compression cubes. Use packing cubes to divide your clothes by type (tops, bottoms, undergarments). Compressing them saves 30% of space and keeps your bag organized when you're moving between hostels.
Select the right fabrics. Avoid heavy denim or cotton. Stick to merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking materials that dry overnight. You can wash clothes for $1-$2 USD per kilogram at local laundry shops everywhere.
Pare down the liquids. Only pack travel-sized toiletries for the first 3 days. Shampoo, soap, and sunscreen are sold in every 7-Eleven across Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia for a fraction of the cost.

Do I really need a money belt?: No. A hidden passport pouch or simply keeping your cards and cash in a locked internal bag pocket is safer and more comfortable in the humidity.
Is it better to take a suitcase or backpack?: Backpack. Many Southeast Asian streets are unpaved, uneven, or prone to flooding. You do not want to be dragging a roller bag through a muddy monsoon alley.