1- I'm going to bangkok, ko samet, phuket, singapore, and the philippines (in that order)...what type of luggage should I bring? I was planning on bringing 1 large rolling/pull-along suitcase, but then I thought about just getting one of those huge North Face travel backpacks. What do you suggest? Keep in mind that I'm gonna be taking ferries, boats, planes, taxis, etc.

2- When I'm hanging out on the beach, where can I keep my camera/I.D./money safe (from water, sand, and thieves)? I want to keep it close to me, but then I also want the freedom of being able to go jump in the water for a few minutes, then come back to my towel and lay out, then go back into the water, etc. Also, if I go on any snorkeling/scuba diving excursions, where can I keep my stuff so that it stays safe (from thieves) and dry?