Luggage or Backpacks
One Backpack and one small day bag. I like a plain duffle bag black with handle large enough to put in on my back. Yeah I know not that comfortable, but I've learn to keep it simple and I just don't hike for miles. Avoid unnecessarily expensive gear - for example, my main travel bag cost $20.

My World Travel Luggage (pretty simple huh?)

Boots
Vasque boots. I swear by them. Very comfortable and versatile. I have never had sore feet with them. Lightweight. Simple classic design. Very waterproof
Sandals
I really like Tevas. High quality, durable, Stylist, At home underwater, city street or funky shower.
 

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Maps
Rand McNally Quick Reference World Atlas Is my map of choice that I carry on my travels. Simple, small and I draw right on it to plan my routes Light weight and good detailed maps.

Guide Books

Personal items
Carry ear plugs a very useful item (for any noisy environment that your trying to sleep)

Camera
Use a good quality one. Nikon S1 for example. Take a good quality digital camera maybe 5 mega pixels? that can take mpeg4 movies and most important SMALL enough to carry in your front pocket at all times.  I prefer SD cards because there so small and hold hundreds of high resolution photos.  You can hold about 1500 (5 mega pixel) photos on one SD (2GB) card that costs $35 (At Wal Mart) Also I highly recommend taping them to your passport when full to safe guard them.