I would have to say I'm more of a 'loose' traveler. Like to have an idea of where to go, what to see, but take a very 'see what happens when you get there' approach. Seems to leave things open to meeting people and truly seeing what the 'place' is all about. I spent 3 months in NZ and meeting the people and staying in their homes and experiencing it all was the most fun. Though it's SO much easier when you share the language. (Even so...at times I had NO idea what was being said
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I do like your idea of things to bring and such. Earplugs (many) are a key for me, you can sleep more places. Plus buses are SO noisy. The clothes, having whatever you might need for warm/cold/wet, just means you can enjoy it all that much more without distraction. And a camera. Takes care of a lot of boredom/loneliness, if and when it arises, because you can turn over so many visual rocks with it. Plus allows for more interaction with local folks. And as you point out, it is SO different in other countries, there is so much to record. And write about on Steemit ( :

And of course, the writing materials. Though I suppose that is what folks use laptops or phones for now. Not as disconnected, I suppose. But good old paper and a pencil works ALL the time. Sounds like a glorious trip. And a whole lot of fun. Enjoy.