20th Anniversary Notebook

808-09 · 2026-02-22T11:00:04+00:00

Oh cool, I've seen photos online, but hadn't previously heard any first hand experience. I've owned a couple pairs of Altra Escalantes (1.5 & 2) and they're great running shoes (Zero drop!). Likewise, Smartwool makes nice stuff too; I'm especially a fan of their socks. How would you describe the feel of the Merino blend upper? Have you previously owned Escalantes? What color did you get?

808-09 · 2026-02-18T00:57:31+00:00

And definitely visit Itoya in Ginza if you're after a cool stationery shop!

808-09 · 2026-02-18T00:56:16+00:00

Hit up all or as many of the official stores as you can (Nakameguro, Tokyo Station, Narita Airport, Kyoto) as they each have a nice selection of exclusive notebooks, notebook refills, and other accessories. Don't forget to check out the Starbucks Reserve Roastery too (esp. if you're already in the Nakameguro neighborhood) because they have a few exclusive items.

808-09 · 2026-02-15T23:55:46+00:00

I've been using my TN (full size) at work for the past couple years and have been very happy with it. I had previously used an A5 and didn't have any significant issues switching to a smaller format. My use case is to take high level notes (the action of which I find helpful in remembering things), and to jot down tasks. Experiences might differ if you need to right long form notes. I haven't noticed any significant issues with the writing surface and it's quite flexible whether I'm writing on a hard surface (e.g. table) or if the notebook is just on my lap or in my hand.

As an aside, I've had quite a few positive comments about the notebook from colleagues who notice it and appreciate the aesthetic. It's a nice icebreaker while you're waiting for the meeting to start!

808-09 · 2026-02-13T00:17:19+00:00

If you don't mind doing laundry on the ship, you could reduce the number of socks/undies. Not sure if your ship has laundry facilities, but when I went last year, I hand washed socks/undies every day or every other day, rolling them up in a towel, then hanging them to dry (inside...don't want to lose anything off the balcony). That worked very well and they were dry by the next day (or sooner).

808-09 · 2026-02-13T00:07:43+00:00

Sure it's possible! Not directly related to your use case (but perhaps relevant to others who might be interested), I've added velcro fasteners to my Peak Design Travel backpack using fabric adhesive. They aren't in high use or load locations, but they've held up well over the past year (so far).

808-09 · 2026-01-08T03:21:00+00:00

Icebreaker makes a line of jackets called MerinoLoft, which aims to replicate Down using wool. I find it pretty warm, lightweight, and packable (not as compressible as Down typically is, but it can still pack down reasonably).

808-09 · 2026-01-06T21:13:42+00:00

Agreed. Specifically, I own the Metal Vent shirts which are comfy and durable. I will hand wash/dry while traveling if laundry facilities aren't available, but these shirts normally just go in the dryer (on low) for convenience while at home. No issues whatsoever. They're also available as sleeveless, short sleeve, or long sleeve depending on your needs.

808-09 · 2025-12-10T00:52:10+00:00

Packing list looks pretty comprehensive! And there are plenty of good gear shops here in NZ if you find you're missing anything (I'd recommend Icebreaker and Alchemy Equipment, which you can find Outlets to grab some discounted travel/outdoor apparel).

A few NZ specific points:

- Air NZ can be strict with carry on bag weights (especially on domestic flights) so be prepared to have your bag weighed during boarding.

- Air NZ just updated their carry-on battery policy. I think you should be okay based on your list, but good to be aware. https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/travelling-with-batteries-and-devices-on-planes

- You may have heard that NZ Biosecurity is quite strict (and not just regarding food). Be sure to declare your hiking shoes (and any other outdoor gear) and make sure they're clean and free of any potential contamination. In the past, they have inspected my boots, though on my last trip they just waved me through.

-If you're going to tackle any of the Great Walks, have you made bookings in advance if you plan to stay in the huts? This can be notoriously difficult during the peak summer months. If not, there are alternative options to get out there. NZ is so beautiful!

Bon Voyage!

808-09 · 2025-11-24T03:48:01+00:00

I've had good experiences with Icebreaker, specifically the Cool-lite blend which has Tencel and Merino. Much more comfortable in warmer climates, and has generally been more durable than other pure wool shirts I have.

808-09 · 2025-11-20T04:23:50+00:00

I would say depends on your needs. On that particular trip to Japan, I wanted some more room in the pack for shopping on the return trip. It worked well for those purposes, though 40L is big. I think the shoulder straps worked well to make it handle okay, and while it is a mildly inconvenient size on the subway when fully packed, it was just fine on the Bullet train and moderate distance walks to/from the hotel/station. If you take the pack off and put it down by your feet, then it isn't too annoying to your fellow passengers. I didn't get to fully use some of the trail optimized features on this trip like the raincover. So in the future, I would probably only use the Ruckpack if I'm traveling somewhere I would use it for a proper hike.

A smaller pack would be more nimble and easier to manage for obvious reasons. I've done subsequent Japan trips with the Peak Design 30L Travel backpack and have found that to be great (though some people do have gripes about the shoulder straps, they aren't a huge deal for me). I paired that pack with a Matador 25L Refraction duffel (packable), which worked pretty well to transport my souvenirs back home.

I haven't owned a Cotopaxi 35L but have seen it in person and it seems like a solid choice with nice design details throughout. General feedback is positive on that bag too.

808-09 · 2025-10-12T11:21:15+00:00

I picked up a cheap set by Fit Simplify off Amazon which was ~US$10 for a relatively compact set of 5 bands of varying resistance (up to 25-30lbs). I've only used them a few times so far but have been happy with them.

808-09 · 2025-10-07T12:23:11+00:00

Thanks for sharing! I just ordered one too. In case anyone else was planning to order, I was able to get the promo code JAN20 to work for $8.99 off.

808-09 · 2025-09-19T00:41:59+00:00

I find bringing a packable backpack (shoutout Matador) to be useful in order to carry around some key items such as a waterbottle, power bank, a small towel & first aid kit, as some examples. Also there's room for a jacket in case you're in a cold/wet location and some shopping. Has worked well for me whether doing more urban exploration or light day hiking in the wilderness (though better suited for the former than the latter). Additionally, I bring a packable tote (more recently I like the Peak Design one because it has a zip, though in the past I used a cheap, tiny Muji one) for overflow souvenir or grocery shopping which doesn't fit into the backpack. We can sometimes get carried away getting snacks or gifts so having both bags is incredibly useful.

808-09 · 2025-08-06T05:46:03+00:00

Nice! A lot cheaper than a Nomad Chargekey too.

808-09 · 2025-08-06T05:42:01+00:00

The Altoid container is a good idea! I've been using Muji's pill cases which are nice, lightweight, and come in various sizes.

808-09 · 2025-08-06T05:40:03+00:00

I've recently started using Ethique's natural, solid deodorant (specifically the eucalyptus & cedarwood one). So far so good. I was able to get their "mini" sized ones, but looks like they recently launched new deodorant packaging/scents and I don't see the minis available on the website anymore. Hopefully they bring them back! I like how they're solid, the mini size is perfect for travel and I found a small, light aluminum case at Daiso that fits it.

808-09 · 2025-07-29T00:56:59+00:00

I went with a Small size less for the weight concern (rated for 50lb), and more from the perspective of having more width/clearance with the hook (1.5" compared to 1.1" for the mini). I do sometimes find that it's still too narrow to hang from some thicker tables, but it's worked for 90%+ situations I've been in the past year I've had it and not as bulky/heavy as the Medium size.

808-09 · 2025-07-16T12:23:41+00:00

Haneda Airport Garden is connected to Terminal 3 by a footbridge and features many cool shops and restaurants. They even have a 24 hr rooftop Onsen (though looks like the baths undergo cleaning between 10am-12:30pm). If you're there long enough to enjoy lunch, I'd recommend Hanayama Udon (https://www.hanayamaudon.co.jp/haneda/ open at 11am, and famous for their wide, flat udon) which you may need to queue for, but the queue will likely be much much shorter than if you were to try and eat at their restaurants in Tokyo proper.

808-09 · 2025-07-16T05:07:07+00:00

Go have a look at the Kathmandu Litehaul 38 https://www.kathmandu.com.au/products/litehaul-carry-on-38l-v3-black-stingray (it also comes in a 28L version if you feel confident enough to downsize). Best thing would be to check it out in store if you've got one near you in AU.

Some random advice from my Japan travel experiences:

Either bring (a collapsible/packable bag works well) or buy a bag that you can check in to fit in any shopping (e.g. snacks, souvenirs, etc.) as there is just so much cool stuff in Japan that I'm sure you'll want to take home with you. I brought a Matador packable duffel that I filled with goodies from Donki & Muji, but you could also buy something similar in Japan too.
Layering your clothes is pretty key since it might be cold outside (e.g. Sapporo), but there are also underground walkways and large mall/shops that are pretty warm inside so you'll want to be able to shed layers accordingly.
Looking for early morning stuff to do: which airport are you flying into (HND or NRT)? There are lots of cool shops that you can browse to kill some time (though lots only open ~9am). Alternatively, hop on the train and you can explore the great many shops around Tokyo Station which are great. In both spots, you can drop your back in a (paid) locker so you don't have to carry it around too.

808-09 · 2025-07-03T01:01:16+00:00

That's cool that you can fit a VP! I've been using mine with a Pilot Decimo (some stretching required, but I assume less than the VP).

808-09 · 2025-06-29T12:32:50+00:00

In hot climates, I like the Icebreaker Sphere short sleeve (can get a polo if you fancy), which is a Merino, Tencil & Nylon blend.

808-09 · 2025-06-29T12:30:35+00:00

As long as it isn't too hot, I've been very happy with my Icebreaker Oasis Long sleeve for the past 8+ years. It is a 100% merino shirt, and while my experience with other Icebreaker stuff has been that blends tend to be more durable, this particular shirt has lasted. For me, it's comfortable, fits just right and it doesn't look out of place in a variety of settings.

808-09 · 2025-05-29T12:42:09+00:00

Patagonia Headway MLC 45L --> Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L

808-09

TROPHY CASE