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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3192 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

General packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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The Savvy Backpacker

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The ultimate packing list | travel checklist for for wherever you travel.

Our curated travel checklist to help you pack and prepare for your next vacation.

So you’ve finally booked your travel but now comes the most annoying and confusing part — packing and making sure you’ve done everything to be fully prepared. We travel thousands of miles a year so we have this packing thing down to a science. That’s why we’ve created this travel checklist (which also includes our favorite travel gear) to ensure you don’t forget anything during the pre-travel chaos.

We’ve divided this packing list into multiple sections:

Summer Clothing

Winter & off-season clothing, travel accessories, travel technology.

• Luggage & Packing Aids

Pre-Travel Checklist

More packing resources.

Let’s start with clothing since this is the bulk of what you’ll be packing.

• Underwear/Bras: A few quality pairs of underwear will make traveling much more comfortable — especially on an extended trip. Check out our favorite travel underwear to learn more.
• Sleepwear: Travel is exhausting so a good night’s sleep is essential. Wear whatever is comfortable.
• Athleta : Athleta has really stepped up their travel clothing and they have a lot of solid options. Some of their offerings feel like yoga clothes but there are some non-yoga choices.
• Lululemon : Lululemon has a number of good travel clothing options. Again, many of their options look a little too “athleisure” but there are some nice-looking choices.
• Prana : Prana is a company that has traditionally made outdoorsy clothing but they’ve recently started making more fashionable items.
• Anatomie : Anatomie has a bunch of higher-end, fashionable travel clothing.
• Uniqlo : Uniqlo always has a few great travel clothing options that are friendly on your bank account. Their stock is always changing so be sure to check them out.
• Shorts & Skirts: Warm weather calls for shorts and skirts — plus they take up very little space in your bags.
• T-Shirts: We always pack a couple of t-shirts for day-to-day travel and they work well for sleep. We like wool t-shirts from Wool & Prince and Unbound .
• Dress/Dress Shirt: We pack one slightly more formal outfit if we want to dress up a bit. Wool & Prince has nice wool options and Bluffworks has some nice synthetic options.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget a swimsuit if you’re heading to somewhere with a beach or pool.
• Light Jacket: Unless you’re traveling in the middle of summer, it’s usually smart to pack a light jacket — they’re also nice for chilly plane rides. Fleece or lightweight puff jackets are our favorite options. We love our Patagonia Nanopuff and Patagonia Better Sweater but anything will do.
• Rain Jacket: A lightweight rain jacket is nice if you’re traveling during rainy times. REI has a nice selection.
• Waterproof Shoes/Boots: We highly suggest waterproof or weather-resistant footwear if you’re not traveling during the summer. We like waterproof sneakers since they’re comfortable and functional. There are also more hiking-style shoes if you want a little more support.
• Shower Sandals: If you’re staying in a hostel or other budget accommodation then we highly recommend a cheap pair of sandals.
• Belt: Keep your pants on. Worried about safety? Check out these hidden pocket travel belts .
• Hat: You’ll probably spend a lot more time outside then normally so be sure to bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Sunglasses: We also suggest bringing a protective case or bring a pair that you won’t mind losing.
• Watch: Don’t miss that train because you’re late. We like using a watch instead of looking at our phone all the time simply because we don’t have to constantly pull our phones out.

Winter is great as long as you know how to dress for the cold weather and possible rain/snow. The real key is layering a few key pieces of clothing to create maximum warmth without adding a ton of bulk.

• Good Socks: A few nice pair of socks will help keep your feet warm and dry — which is essential in the cold weather. We like to put on a fresh pair halfway through the day. Smartwool & Darn Tough are our favorite brands but there are plenty more on REI .
• Base Layer: A thin base layer will add a ton of warmth so we always throw on a pair of long underwear. Our favorite fabric is fine merino wool since it is warm and resists odors. Synthetic is a much cheaper option but it doesn’t do a very good job of resisting odors. Browse REI to find something in your price range.
• Mid-Layer: A nice fleece or lightweight puffer jacket will add a ton of warmth when worn under a larger coat — and it’s especially warm when paired with a base layer. We use the Patagonia Nanopuff and Patagonia Better Sweater .
• Long-Sleeve Shirt: A long-sleeve shirt, whether a sweater or a button-up, are both great ways to add warmth without adding bulk.
• Hat, Gloves, & Scarf: Keep your extremities warm.
• Water-Resistant Footwear: Ideally, you’ll want a pair of waterproof shoes for those rainy or snowy days. Weather-resistant footwear is also a good option because fully-waterproof shoes aren’t always easy to find — especially if you don’t want boots or if you’re concerned about fashion.
• Winter Coat: A warm waterproof coat is a must if you’re traveling in really cold climates. REI has the best selection so check them out.
• Notebook & Pens: A small notebook is a great travel accessory because you never know when you’ll need to jot something down. We like to write down addresses and confirmation numbers so we don’t have to go searching through emails. Moleskine Notebooks are the classic choice.
• Guide Books: We’re still fans of guidebooks since they’re a quick and easy way to see what to check out in each location we visit. We’re fans of Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.
• USB w/ Important Info: Honestly, these days I save all my important information (credit card info, passport copy, etc.) to my Google Docs but it’s not a bad idea to have the information saved to a USB that you can hide.
• Travel Towel: If you’re staying in a hotel or rental apartment you don’t need a travel towel but people staying in hostels should consider packing a quick-drying travel towel .
• Money Belt: While we’ve never been big fans of money belts, there are a lot of people who swear by them. Check Amazon as there are multiple options there.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: An eye mask can be nice for sleeping on planes/trains and earplugs can be nice for noisy environments.
• Stain Remover: Washing your clothes isn’t easy while on the road so a stain remover will come in handy. Tide2Go Pens is our top pick.
• Handwashing Stuff: If you want to wash clothing in your sink then you’ll want a sink stopper , travel soap , and possibly a travel clothesline .
• Lint Roller: Be gone vile lint!
• Door Stop/Lock: If you’re staying in an unfamiliar place or traveling alone then using something like a portable doorstop or this portable door lock adds some extra security.
• Padlock: You’ll want a basic padlock if you’re staying in hostels so you can lock your lockers.

• Portable Battery Pack: Travel (especially GPS) kills your phone’s battery so a portable battery is a must these days. Amazon has multiple chargers so get whatever fits your budget.
• Plug Adaptor: If you’re traveling internationally then you’ll need a few plug adaptors for your electronics.
• Headphones: Confession, I love my Apple AirPods cause they’re amazing for travel. Not having to deal with wires or bulky headphones is a godsend — especially on flights. That said, we still pack a pair of normal earbuds just in case.
• Extra USB Cables: You can never have too many USB charger cables since I always seem to lose at least one when I travel. That’s why we throw an extra cable into your daypack so we always have one within reach.
• Portable Power Strip: Many hotels and hostels don’t have a lot of electrical outlets so a portable power strip is a nice thing to have. We use this Belkin Travel Power Strip because it also has USB ports.
• International Data Plan: Check your phone plan’s international rates because international data could cost you a fortune. While we’ve never used one, mobile hotspots have become a popular option if you need reliable data wherever you’re traveling.
• Camera w/ Extra Memory Cards: If you’re a photo geek then you’ll want to pack your digital camera. These days we mostly use our phones to take photographs but a camera is a must if you want really nice photos.
• Laptop/Tablet: We rarely travel with a laptop but we love our iPads. They’re great for travel since they’re small and powerful.
• Blowdryer/Curling Iron: Make sure your accommodation provides a blowdryer. If not, we suggest a travel hairdryer since they take up less space. Traveling abroad? Ensure you get a dual-voltage hairdryer or you’ll fry your North American dryer since Europe uses a higher voltage. The same goes for hair straighteners/curlers.

Travel Toiletries

• Pepto-Bismol Tablets: Travel can wreak havoc on your digestive system and Pepto tablets are easy to throw in your bag.
• Band-Aids: We mostly use bandaids for those pesky blisters on our heels so we always pack a few heavy-duty bandaids. There are also bandages for your heels if you’re prone to blisters.
• Body Powder: Lots of walking in hot weather can lead to chaffing — which is never any fun. Body power is a great way to help prevent some uncomfortable situations. We like Anti Monkey Butt or good ol ‘ Gold Bond powder .
• OTC Pain Medicine: Medicine is often only sold in pharmacies but many pharmacies are only open for limited hours so we always pack some so we at least have a few pills on hand.
• Basic Makeup: It’s easy to go overboard with makeup so we suggest only bringing the basics. Here are some skincare products and cosmetics .
• Toothpaste: We either start with a small tube and buy it once we arrive or throw in whatever we have at home. It also depends if we’re flying carry-on only or not.
• Toothbrush and Toothbrush Cover: We just pack our normal toothbrush and we clip on a self-sanitizing brush protector to help keep it clean.
• Floss: We’ve found floss to be expensive in some places so pack some.
• Shampoo/Bodywash: If you’re traveling with a carry-on then we highly recommend putting your liquids and gels into Go Toob travel containers because they won’t leak.
• Deodorant: Don’t stink.
• Sunscreen: We buy ours online since it’s expensive in the stores.
• Lip Balm: We pack a few tubes of lip balm because always end up losing a couple.
• Face Wipes : A pack of Resealable Face Wipes is great for freshening up after a long plane ride. Throw a pack into your carry-on.
• Moisturizer: Travel can be very dehydrating — especially flights.
• Jet Lag Pills: Arrive not feeling like a zombie. Miers Labs No Jet Lag is the most popular choice.
• Hand Sanitizer: To sanitize your hands.
• Contact Solution: Finding contact solution can be surprisingly tough in some places
• Perfume/Cologne: Scents and memory have a powerful connection so we like wearing a new fragrance when we travel somewhere new. We’re cheapos so we’ll often get some free samples from the store. But we suggest packing a Refillable Perfume Bottle Atomizer if you already have a fragrance you already own.
• Nail Clippers: Keep your nail game strong.
• Wet Wipes: These can be a lifesaver when you’re on the road.

Luggage And Packing Aids

• To learn more, check out our article on the best travel backpacks & the best travel backpacks for women .
• Daypack: You’ll want a smaller bag or backpack to wear while you’re out exploring during the day. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy but we recommend something with secure zippers to deter pickpockets. Here’s a list of our favorite daypacks .
• Toiletries Bag: Keep all your toiletries organized. We prefer toiletry bags that have a hook in case you’re staying in a bathroom with little/no counter space. Amazon has multiple options.
• Packing Cubes: The best way to keep all your clothing organized and relatively wrinkle-free is by using packing cubes. We always use packing cubes these days so check out our guide to the best packing cubes to learn more.
• Travel Liquid Bottles: There is nothing worse than when your liquids leak all over your stuff so we highly recommend using the GoToob Leak-Proof Travel Bottles .
• Plastic Bags/Ziplock Bags: Throw in a few plastic bags and ziplock bags since they come in handy. We pack our important documents in a ziplock bag for protection and we’ll put extra shoes in a plastic bag to protect our clothing from dirty shoes.
• Coin Bag: If you’re traveling to Europe then we suggest packing a small change purse/pouch since you’ll get lots of coins.

Ok, so you have everything packed but there are a few more things to think about before you depart.

• Get Travel Insurance: If you’re going on a big trip then you might want to consider picking up some travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical emergency or travel interruptions. We use World Nomads since they offer affordable insurance.
• Triple Check Your Travel Dates: You would be surprised at how many people mix up their travel dates — especially with international flights where you arrive a day later than when you left because of the time zones.
• Book Accommodation: You’ll almost always get the best deal on hotels, hostels, and rental apartments by booking early. We like Hostelworld for hostels, Booking.com for hotels, and Airbnb for rental apartments.
• Book Train Travel: Traveling Europe by train? You might save a good amount if you book your tickets early. Check out our guide on How To Travel Europe by Train . Also, if you’re traveling with a Eurail Pass then you’ll want to order it a few weeks before departure.
• Get Your Passport: Double-check your passport and make sure it is still valid since it can take a few weeks to get a new passport. Check out the State Department’s Passport page for information.
• Write Down Reservation Numbers: We like to write down all our reservation numbers in a small notebook so we don’t have to go searching through our email for those elusive numbers.
• Call Credit Card & Bank: Let your bank and credit card companies that you’ll be traveling because they might cancel your cards once you start using them overseas. We also recommend bringing an extra credit card for emergencies.
• Make Copies of Important Documents: Take a photo of your passport and credit cards and save them to your Google Drive or email them to yourself. This will help you get them replaced quickly if they get lost/stolen.
• Research Where You’re Going: You don’t have to plan out every minute of every day but spend a few hours researching things like what to see, cool restaurants, and nice bars. This way you don’t have to worry about missing something you really want to experience.
• Figure Out How To Get From Airport/Train Station: There are often a handful of ways to get from the airport to your accommodation so it’s smart to do your research before you arrive — especially if the destination is known for crooked taxi drivers.
• Download Audioguides: We’re big fans of Rick Steves’ free audioguide walking tours so we make sure to check if he’s made one for our destination.
• Check Your Phone’s Data Plan: Be sure to check your phone’s international data plan to see if you can use it abroad or see how much it will cost to use data.
• Hold Your Mail: If you’re going to be gone for a long time then you’ll want to have the post office put a hold on your mail.
• Break-In Your Shoes: Don’t make the mistake of wearing brand-new shoes as that’s a surefire way to get painful blisters. So put some miles on your shoes before you depart.
• Research The Weather: It’s impossible to predict the weather but you should take a look a few days before you depart so you can tailor your clothing choices.
• Arrange Visas: Not every country requires a visa for entry but some do so you’ll need to take that into consideration and give yourself enough time to get them.
• International Drivers License: Not every country requires an international driver’s license so do some research you plan on driving.
• Don’t forget to weigh your luggage to make sure you’re under the weight limits. We suggest picking up a luggage scale .
• Pack Some Travel Snacks: Having a stash of simple travel snacks like beef jerky, granola bars, etc. is always a good idea.
• Consider Getting Some Currency: Some people like to get a small amount of foreign currency before they depart. ATMs are easy to find these days but having a little cash on hand when you arrive gives you a nice piece of mind.

We’re always writing about the best travel gear and giving your our favorite packing tips. Here’s a list of more articles we’ve written in the past:

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
• Best Travel Pants for Men
• Best Travel Underwear (Men’s and Women’s )
• Best Hiking Socks For Backpacking Europe
• Guide to Fashionable Travel Clothes and Performance Techwear
• Best Daypacks and Day Bags for Traveling Europe
• Best Packing Cubes
• How To Properly Pack Your Backpack for Maximum Organization & Wrinkle-Free Clothing
• Guide to Ultralight Backpacking and Travel in Europe
• Tips for Choosing Between a Backpack or Wheeled Luggage
• Guide To Dressing For Winter in Europe
• How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe
• Women’s European Fashion — Tips for Dressing like a European
• Skincare, Makeup and Beauty Essentials For Travel
• Recent Posts
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024

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The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Packing can be one of the most frustrating elements of traveling. It doesn’t seem to matter if it is your first trip or your 10th, you always seem to miss something. We put together this ultimate packing list t o help you avoid those packing mistakes on your next trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect Packing Checklist

It is important to note that we compiled this ultimate travel packing list from 10 years of being professional travelers and bloggers. The goal of this packing list is to provide you with packing tips that will allow you to travel as efficiently and as comfortably as possible.

Travel Packing List for Luggage

Choosing what type of luggage you are going to use is a personal choice. We have used everything from hi-tech wheeled luggage to the latest backpacks. These are our top recommendations for checked luggage and carry-on luggage that is durable and lightweight.

Aluminum Roller – Known as the Rolls Royce of Luggage, Sterling Pacific is the top choice for luxury travelers, frequent fliers, and pilots. Its aluminum body is lightweight and the Italian leather handles give it extra points for style. Plus it has a lifetime warranty.

4 Wheeled Roller : Our yellow   Voyageur Check-In 28  turned heads. We didn’t worry about anyone mixing up our bags on the conveyor belt with our unique color and design. We found the 28-inch a bit too large, but you can order 24? or 26?. But with the large handle and ultra-quite 360° spinner wheels it was super easy to navigate through the airport

Carry-on Roller : Pro Carry-on with Laptop Pocket  by Level8. We felt so chic going through the airport with these hard cases and modern design and it was easy t o  pop out my laptop and documents right from the front hard case pocket when going through security.

Travel Backpack : If you are heading to destinations that are less developed, you are going to want a reliable backpack. You will want something in the 55L size and it should be comfortable on your back. We recommend the Osprey Fairpoint for men and the Osprey Fairview for women.

Rolling Duffel Bag Eagle Creek Rolling Duffel – Duffel bags are lightweight and durable for rough terrain. We like the separate compartments for hiking boots and how it can still look elegant when going into higher-end hotels.

Messenger Bag Travelon Antitheft Messenger Bag   – Deb carries an over-the-shoulder bag that crosses over her body. It keeps valuables secure from any snatch and grabs and the RFID component helps with any cyber security.

Carry-on Backpack – We’ve recently started using this carry-on backpack by Standard Luggage. The 3 in 1 bag turns into a backpack, suitcase, and shoulder bag to suit your needs. It meets all airline cabin rules which is a bonus and expand from 35 – 45 L. Plus, it’s water resistant to help keep valuable electronics and camera gear safe.

In addition to your luggage, you are going to want to keep everything organized.

Organizing Your Luggage

The first thing you will want to purchase will be packing cubes. These are lightweight compression bags that can help you separate your different types of clothes and keep your bag organized.

• Electronics Organizer
• Toiletry Bag
• Foldable Day Pack
• Document Organizer

Pro Tip: When checking in at the airport, take your computers out of your carry-on bag and put them in a collapsible tote bag (we fold it in the front pocket of our carry-on.) That way it lightens your load should you be weighed, but it doesn’t look like an extra piece of luggage.

Travel Packing Lists for Clothes

Packing clothes can be the most confusing and frustrating experiences of all. What we have learned over the past 10 years fo traveling is to have a base set of close, or capsule wardrobe , consisting of pieces that can be mixed and matched. We then add on from there depending on the length of the trip, the weather at the destination, and if we are going carry-on only or not.

Capsule Wardrobe for Women

• 1x Travel Skirt
• 1x Convertible Pants
• 2x Casual Pants (Usually 1 pair of leggings and 1 pair of pants that can be dressed up or down)
• 1x Long-Sleeved Shirt (I may add one depending on the cultural norms of the country I am visiting.)
• 4x Short-Sleeved Shirts or Blouses
• 1x Bathing Suit
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater or Fleece
• 4-6x Sports Bras and Underwear
• 1- Dress/Sundress
• 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 casual pair and 1 hiking pair)
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool Hiking Socks)

Travel Accessories for Her

• Buffs or headbands
• Rain Jacket or Outer Shell

Capsule Wardrobe for Men

• 1x Long Sleeve Shirt
• 3x Short Sleeve Shirts
• 2x Convertable Pants
• 1x Lightweight pant or jeans
• 2x Shorts (1 doubles as a bathing suit)
• 4-6 Exofficio Underwear
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool )
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater
• 2x Pairs of Shoes (1 casual and 1 for hiking)

Travel Accessories for Him

• Rain Jacket/Outer Shell

Pro Tip : If you are looking for a winter vacation planning list make sure to check out our How to Dress for Cold Weather article.

Checklist for Packing Toiletries

No travel packing list worth its weight would be complete without a comprehensive checklist for packing your toiletries. The first step is to make sure you have a good toiletry bag. We use this one as it is spacious, light, and hangs on the back of any door. To make it easier for you we have broken down to the travel essentials and the extras.

What to pack in your Toiletry Kit – Toiletry Essential Checklist

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and Conditioner (We transfer ours in GoToobes for easier storage)
• Tweezers and Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• Gold Bond Medicated Powder (for hot climates)
• Face/Body Moisturizer
• Chapstick/Lip Balm
• Prescription Medication

Toiletry Extras Checklist

• Hair products like hairspray and hair gel
• Travel Mirror
• Shaving Kit and razors
• Pegless Clothesline
• Travel Towel
• Hairbrush or Tangle Teezer
• Toothbrush Sanitizer

Read:  7 Tips for Stress-Free Travel  – here you will find a travel packing list of what we take in our care package on

Packing Checklist for Electronics

When it comes to electronics there are a lot of variables that will determine what you take and what you leave at home. In today’s day and age, there are certain things that everyone will want to take with them, and most of them will fit easily into your carry-on luggage. This checklist for packing electronics will give you the tools to bring back great memories and pack as light as possible.

• World Travel Adaptor : Each country that you visit may have a different plug configuration. This adaptor has you covered for every country.
• Belkin Mini Surge Protector : This is one piece of electronics we don’t leave home without. It protects your electronics against surges, has 3 plugs and 2 USB outlets for charging.
• iPhone/Smartphone: We use the iPhone 11 Pro. : Almost a necessity in today’s world, a smartphone can come in handy in so many ways. You can use it as a camera, a place to store your itineraries and keep friends and family up to date on Social Media.
• Travel Camera: Our recommendation would be the Sony RX100 VII : A good camera that fits in your pocket should be on everyone’s travel checklist. We recommend one that is small, lightweight, and can fit in your pocket.
• Noise Cancelling Headphones: If you want to get any sleep on a plane or bus ride these are essential. We use Beats Studio 3 but some people prefer earbuds. Whichever you choose make sure they are good quality to drown out all that noise.
• Portable Power Bank : The last thing you want to do is run out of power for your electronics when you are on the road. We carry a portable power back that keeps all of our electronics charged.
• Memory Cards : Always pack spare memory cards so you don’t run out of space when you want to capture that perfect shot.

Optional Electronics

• E-Reader or Kindle : If you are into books this is something you will want to add to your packing list.
• Laptop (This is for extended trips) : We carry one everywhere as that is our business. We recommend you pack one for longer trips or if you are into taking a lot of photos and videos like us. We recommend the MacBook Air for most people.
• External Hard Drive : Plan on taking a lot of videos and photos? Make sure you back them up so if something happens you don’t lose all your precious memories.
• Drone: We use the Mavic Pro 2 : Add a whole new element to your memories with a drone. We have been using one for years and love it.
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker : If you love music as much as we do you have to pack one of these for some tunes in your hotel room.
• Travel Tripod : Whether it be for selfies or night photography you will be glad you have on in your bag for those unique situations.

Are you into Travel Photography? Make sure to check out my Travel Photography Gear Guide and find out what is in my camera bag.

Packing List for Comfort

If there is one thing we have learned after all of these years is that a little comfort goes a long way. Especially when you are traveling on airplanes and busses. By adding these travel accessories to your packing list you can rest assured you will be comfortable . All of these have been tested on long plane, train and bus rides so you know that they work.

• Travel Pillow : After flying over 500,000 miles we have found the Trtl Neck travel pillow to be the best travel pillow out there. It is comfortable, gives great supports, and takes up almost no room in your bag.
• Eye Mask and Ear Plugs : No plane flight would be complete without these. The Pretty Care Eye mask is what we recommend. IT doesn’t rest on your eyes, is padded, and blocks out all light.
• Foldable Water Bottle : Staying hydrated on the plane is paramount to feeling refreshed when you arrive at your destination. WE fill this up after security so we always have water on the plane with us.
• Sarong : We have found that plane blankets just don’t cut it. That is why we always have a sarong with us on the plane if the air is a little too cold and you want to bundle up.
• Chapstick and hand moisturizer : WE all know how dry the plane gets. I pack this moisturizing kit so that my hands and face stay moisturized throughout the flight.
• Flight Flap Phone and Tablet Holder : WE discovered this last year and fell in love with it. No more sore necks from watching movies on your phone and tablet. This hangs on the back of the seat so you can watch in comfort.
• Travel Socks : I started using compression socks because they prevent DVT. I know more than a few people who have gotten DVT and this can be very serious. Compression socks help prevent blood clots and are highly recommended.

Packing List for First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential piece of travel gear. We have a n extensive first aid kit as we do a lot of adventures, but most people can get by with the essentials. You can buy pre-made first aid kits. This compact first aid kit  is a good start but it is just as easy to make one at home from your medicine cabinet. That way you only pack what you need.

• Prescription Medication – with a photocopy of our prescriptions
• Insect repellent 
• Advil or Tylenol for pain relief
• Gravol – for nausea  
• Benadryl and Claritin – For allergic reactions
• Allergy Eyedrops
• Imodium – for mild diarrhea
• Rehydration tablets and electrolyte tables – in case of dehydration or severe diarrhea.
• Topical Ointment like Polysporin or prescription Fucidin Cream – For cuts and scrapes
• Antiseptic spray – it’s important to clean cuts quickly, especially in tropical climates. 
• Moleskin – protects your skin from blisters.
• Thermometer
• Do you want to be prepared for every travel emergency? Check out our Ultimate First Aid Kit Packing List.

Travel Documents

Keeping your essential travel documents in order and organized can really take the stress out of travel. Using a travel organizer allows you to all the things you need in one convenient place.

• Passport and Visas- Make sure to have an electronic copy of both in case yours gets lost.
• Personal ID like a drivers license
• Bank cards, Credit Cards. Keep a contact number for your bank and credit card companies in your phone for emergencies.
• Emergency cash: We suggest 1 days worth of USD.
• Frequent Flier cards
• Travel Insurance documents, policy number , and contact information.
• Immunization records if needed.
• Itineraries or reservations- either printed out or stored in an app like Tripit.
• Boarding passes
• Emergency contact information.
• Guide book or maps- in either hard copy or digital copy.

Travel Security

Travel security is something we should all take seriously. Most problems tend to occur in bigger cities and in the form of pickpockets or petty theft. If you add these items to the travel packing list it might help deter would-be thieves.

• RFID Wallet: Protects against RFID Skimming, which is a form of theft using wireless transmitters to gain information to your credit and debit card identification chips. They can do it just by walking by.
• Money belt or neck wallet: We used these in the early days and they can be useful in the big cities where there are a lot of pickpockets.
• PacSafe Luggage Lock: This is perfect if you are staying in hostels or guesthouses.
• Luggage tracker: Give you peace of mind and lets you track your luggage if it gets lost.

More Anti-Theft Suggestions: If you want to get more in-depth about protecting your valuables when you travel check out THE BEST ANTI THEFT TRAVEL BAGS AND ACCESSORIES

Pre-Trip Checklist

Regardless of whether you are going on an extended trip or just a 2 week vacation there are a few things you are going to want to do before you board the plane. We have a complete pre-travel checklist that you can see here.

• Call your banks and credit card companies to tell them of your travel plans. This will avoid cards being flagged for purchases in another country.
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check to see if there are any Visa requirements
• Check Immunization requirements
• Leave flight and travel itineraries with a friend or relative.
• Check-in online or check flight information before leaving for the airport.

And there you have it. Our complete international travel packing list. We have done our best to answer all your travel packing questions and give you some packing tips that you can use on your next vacation. After years of traveling around the world, we hope that our extensive experience helps you when you are deciding what to pack for your next big adventure.

If you enjoyed this post why not Pin It?

Looking for more packing tips?

If you liked our ultimate travel packing list, why not check out some other great packing lists and travel tips travel that will be sure to help you out on your next trip.

• The Ultimate Camping Packing List : All the essentials you will need for your next camping trip.
• The Ultimate European Vacation Packing List : Great packing tips for your next trip to Europe.
• The Only Pre-Travel Checklist You Will Ever Need Everything you will need to do before you head to the airport for your next vacation.
• The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories : Tips and recommendations on what you need to stay organized while traveling.

You May Also Like These Helpful Travel Planners

• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
• Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?
• How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs
• Essential Tips for Essential Travel
• 10 Must Have Items to Make Air Travel Easy

What else would you add to our travel packing list? Add them in the comments below.

Disclosure:  The links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We receive affiliate commissions, but it’s no extra cost to you!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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29 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)”

This is very good content, images to perfect articles, hope you will share more in the future for everyone to see. Thank you very much.

Goig to Machu Pichu in Feb 2020.. 67 yrs young, not a regular hiker. Can you help me with packing list please? Also Amazon headwaters then to coast to relax by ocean for couple of days.

Hi I’m travelling from Australia to India for 2 weeks and will be visitng Dharamashala, Bodh Gaya and Dehli (2 nights)? I am 21yo, well I will be when I leave on 15 January. I am travelling with 7 others. I will be sharing a room with another lady, which I am pleased about as I can be prone to anxiety. Could you please help me with a packing list? Also do you think I should purchase a back pack that will protect my cards from being scanned? Do you recommend some type of money bag/sleeve that I can safely hold my money and passport? Thanks and sorry for all the questions, I don’t want to be caught out!

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

if you are only using a carry-on, you cannot take tweezers, or small scissors. They were taken away from me when I had them in a carry-on.

Actually I have affiliate links for both booking.com and lonely planet, but only on my guides section. The booking.com link works well, $15 for whenever somebody uses my link. On top of it, I do my own hotel bookings through my own link, so I’m actually giving myself a $15 discount 🙂 I only have these links on a very small section of my blog, totally agree with not doing too much of it early on. I’ve seen too many blogs that I previously enjoying selling out to advertising and turning into what looks like an online Casino site 🙂 Frank (bbqboy)

Great to hear Frank! Thanks for sharing.

Hey guys – we ended up going to the Bay and getting a couple of rolling duffels. Plus they had a special over the weekend and picked up bags that were usually $600 each (we went for the higher end models) at 50% off. So great tip about the Bay. Yes, I should be smarter about affiliate links on the blog. I’ve been a bit lazy on the monetization aspect… Frank

That’s fantastic! The Bay is great isn’t it? I love shopping there. Every time I go to the checkout, they always have a surprise discount. Even when it’s advertised on the item that it’s on sale, they seem to have another deeper discount at the desk. I think it’s one of the best places to shop for luggage. Best of luck with affiliates. It took us years to get around to it. You really need traffic to make it happen as you don’t make much off of each item. It’s base more on volume than sales. With Amazon it’s something like 4%. But it’s nice to get a bit of extra in the pockets if you can supply your readers with something of value.

Great! Have one right downtown next to the optometrist I’m seeing today. Thanks!

Perfect. Hope your eyes are doing well 🙂 The bay always has amazing deals on luggage.

I have seen so many of such type of blogs which contains these packing lists. But all of them possesses the same sort of things in the list. You have done such a wonderful job of adding some brilliant things, which can be very useful in any tour. I really appreciate your work.

Thank you for the kind words. We had a lot of fun putting it together. I just went through my bag and started making a list. It was a lot of work, but I think it’s worth it.

Wow…really great packing list especially with the images, never seen this before. It would be great if you can create a smartphone app 🙂

I was never a fan of these packing list posts. But we’ve been travelling non-stop now for a year and have had so many frustrations with our gear. Besides too much stuff (inefficient clothing mostly) our carrying bags (backpacks) just so damn heavy. Like you say, you can go light when travelling for a couple of weeks but when you’re gone for a year you’re going to be carrying more. We’ll be back in Canada next week and one of the many things we have to do during our month there is to re-organize our whole baggage/packing situation. I know I’m asking for a lot here – but any idea where in Montreal we can get some of those Travel bags? I’m not one to buy stuff online, have to see it with my own eyes. Informative post! Frank (bbqboy)

HI Frank, We bought our rolling duffles at The Bay, they always have amazing deals.

Some great ideas here, but I cant fathom traveling with this much stuff or luggage. I take much shorter trips, but do everything in a 20″ expandable rollaboard and daypack.

My concern with packing camera gear in a larger back is what if you are forced to check that bag? Even runway check the bag? My Crumpler camera bag and laptop fit in the daypack so even if I am forced to check the rollaboard, I have my breakables in the smaller bag to carry on the plane.

I do what Stuart mentioned in the above comment. I have a list for a carryon beach/adventure vacation; a list for the checked bag adventure/beach vacation; lists for carryon and checked city vacations and a business trip packing list. All of these can be altered for the weather/sports at the location.

There’s certainly some good kit on this list. A friend of mine swears that the best way to pack is to maintain lists for different types of destination (i.e. one for winter sports and another for beach vacations) and refer to them while packing. I still pack on an ad hoc basis! Enjoy your travels.

Some great tips here guys! I wish I had read one of these before I first hit the road seven years ago! – certainly would have changed what I took! These days, as long as I have my knife and my head torch; I know I’m pretty much ready for any adventure 🙂

Great article Dave and Deb! You guys are travel experts so if you like our clothes we know we’re doing something right. We look forward to continuing following your travels!

I like it so much. Each time I travel and expect long hour travel by plane, I make sure I have a jet lag cure like JetlagFX. It’s a great supplement and works well for me.

I just got a sample pack of JetlagFX, I can’t wait to try it out.

Great lists! As someone who packs light when I travel, I like how you categorized everything and stuck to the basics.

Thanks. We aren’t the lightest packers since we are on the road constantly, but for we find this list does everything we need without too much extraneous weight.

Great article!! i am a girl so is difficult for me to make a Packing list , but i really think that i have to make one the next trip because i always travel with a lot of stuff in my bags.

Wow, it really is a long list of things…. Bags, organizers, clothes, gears………. simply amazing By the way, Deb looks dashing on the image carrying luggage…

Holy moly, that is the motherload of packing lists. I’m bookmarking it for later. I’m particularly interested in your photography and electronics. I have only just started making enough money writing to even begin to think about traveling and writing full time, but I just don’t know where to begin. Thanks for this awesomely detailed post.

Great post! I need some organization in packing wisely when traveling. My favorite was the travel organizers. I probably would not need as much electronic gear as you have. My iPhone is sufficient enough for me when taking pictures. They come out pretty good. Some of your other ideas are great. We usually check on locations for laundry when traveling for any length of time. This too can cut down on the amount that you have to pack. The downside is that it may take up some of your time to do the laundry.

wow great information. i like this list for travel packing.

Protect Your Trip »

Vacation packing list: 27 essentials for any trip.

This vacation packing list covers the major essentials you don't want to forget.

Vacation Packing List

Getty Images

Make sure you have everything you need for your next getaway.

While every vacation packing list ultimately looks different based on a variety of factors – the destination, traveler(s), budget and more – consider this guide a jumping-off point for the must-haves. You can also scroll down to More Vacation Packing Lists to see recommendations for specific trips.

Vacation packing list

For the journey, for the vacation.

Courtesy of Coolife

Before your adventure begins, you'll want to decide what type of bag(s) to pack. To determine the type of luggage you'll need, consider:

• How many days will you be traveling? If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag ) should be sufficient.  
• Who are you traveling with? Determine if you can combine your belongings to avoid unnecessary checked luggage fees. If traveling with children who can help carry bags, consider some kids luggage they'll be excited to carry or roll along. 
• What type of climate(s) will you be in? For cold weather vacations, you might consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . 
• What are the baggage restrictions for your mode of travel? Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.
• What kind of clothing will you need? Is this a casual trip or will you need formalwear for dinners and other gatherings? If you'll need the latter, you might want to purchase a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing. 

Packing cubes

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

To maximize suitcase space and stay organized, invest in at least one set of packing cubes. Travel experts recommend any of the packing cubes by Eagle Creek , as well as this cheap, quality set on Amazon . For more options, check out The Best Packing Cubes, Chosen by Travel Experts .

Credit cards

When traveling, it's good to have at least two credit card options with you. That way, if there are any issues with one card (or maybe a merchant doesn't accept American Express or Discover, a common occurrence when traveling abroad), you've got a backup payment option. It's also helpful in the event your credit card gets compromised and subsequently locked.

Read: The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel documents

Having your boarding pass and personal identification is essential no matter where you're traveling. For international travel, you'll want a passport wallet for your passport along with any visa or customs forms you may need. Be sure to keep these documents either on your body or in your personal item that you place in under the seat in front of you on the plane (not in the overhead bin, where you may not always have access).

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Whether it's a long flight, train ride or car trip, dozing off without support can be a literal pain in the neck. Depending on what's comfortable for you, the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the Trtl Travel Pillow are two of the top U.S. News travel pillows . If you're short on space, you may want to consider the multitasking Tube Travel Neck Pillow , which doubles as a packing cube.

Water bottle

Staying hydrated while on the go is essential, and traveling with a reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly way to do it. The LifeStraw Go is dishwasher-safe (when you remove the filter) and made of BPA-free plastic; the flip-straw has a two-step filter to trap bacteria and more. To keep your water cold for hours, the YETI Rambler has a durable stainless steel construction in a variety of colors and is the perfect canvas for travel stickers you collect along the way. To save space, try the Nomader Collapsible water bottle.

Hand sanitizer and holder

Keeping your hands clean while traveling helps fend off germs and unwanted illnesses. Hand sanitizer is essential for any trip, and clipping a travel-size bottle of it to your carry-on or handbag makes it easily accessible when you need it. You can find hand sanitizer holders on Amazon or at your local dollar store. You may also want to consider some antibacterial wipes for your in-flight tray table and sticky situations.

Toiletry bag and toiletries

Organizing your makeup, hair products, personal hygiene items and shaving supplies in a quality toiletry bag – such as the well-rated Lug Trolley on Amazon – makes it easy to find your essentials while traveling. Depending on what you plan to pack, a hanging style like the L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag , with a removable shower caddy and built-in hook, helps to save counter space and is especially useful in tight cruise ship cabins. To easily see everything at once, choose any of the clear cosmetics cases from CALPAK , which are available in multiple sizes and color trims.

For air travel, you'll need to keep in mind the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: that all liquids, gels and creams must be 3 ounces or less and placed into a one-quart clear bag. You can find refillable and travel-size toiletries and reusable quart-sized TSA-approved bags on Amazon .

Read: The Best Toiletry Bags

Medications and first-aid kit

You'll want to be sure to pack any prescription medications in your carry-on bag, along with other medications you may need while traveling, such as Dramamine . It's also helpful to have a travel-size first-aid kit with Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and more.

Compression socks

For everything from long flights to walking miles exploring a new destination, compression socks can help provide additional support and reduce swelling. With varying levels of compression available, one medium-level option to consider is the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks – a U.S. News top pick .

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Walking shoes

Courtesy of Birkenstock

Every journey includes a fair amount of walking, and nothing can put a stop to the fun like foot pain. Before you depart, be sure to invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes . For a sneaker style, the ASICS Gel-Contend is a U.S. News top pick. If you'd like a slip-on style, the Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer for both men and women provides comfort and stability, while being able to be dressed up or worn casually. For a sandal, consider a supportive option like the Birkenstock Mayari .

Travel purse/bag

One way to keep identification, credit cards and other personal information organized and protected while traveling is with a well-designed purse or belt bag , such as the Anti-Theft Classic Messenger or the Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack by Travelon . The Lug Convertible Carousel also includes RFID protection and can be worn as a belt bag or as a crossbody.

If you're looking for a fashionable bag that can easily go from day to night, check out the TUMI Voyageur Crossbody , which has a choice of leather or nylon construction with leather accents, multiple compartments and gold hardware. The sustainable and machine-washable Vera Bradley Utility Tote Bag is another great option, with a removable shoulder strap and exterior pockets for your phone and other essentials.

Read: The Top Travel Purses

Long-sleeved shirt

When you're traveling, there's a good chance you might be changing climates or find yourself a bit chilled from air conditioning. Pack a long-sleeve tee, such as the L.L.Bean Beyond Soft Tee for women or the Carefree Unshrinkable Tee for men . This basic wardrobe staple works as a shirt on its own, a base layer in colder weather or a pull-on style over a tee. For young travelers, consider the Kids' Graphic Tee from L.L. Bean for a bit of playful fun.

Button-up shirt

For a shirt that can truly multitask, pack a button-up shirt. A classic style – like a Calvin Klein shirt for men or a timeless white button-down for women on Amazon – can be dressed up for dinner or a museum visit, paired with shorts and rolled sleeves for exploring, or put it on with a bathing suit as a cover-up.

This wardrobe staple is a travel essential. Versatile black, white or navy tees can be worn alone, under a blazer or layered for added warmth as needed. Pack a few basic options like the cotton tees at Lands' End for women , men , girls and boys , then add a fun graphic tee or two.

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

A jacket that can fold up small to be tucked into your luggage is essential for any vacation packing list. From rain jackets to lightweight puffer jackets, choose the perfect packable jacket to keep you warm and dry in any locale.

Evening outfit

Even if you're going to the beach or planning a casual retreat, chances are you'll go out for a nicer dinner at least one night. Women may want to consider a black travel dress on Amazon , which can be dressed up with evening sandals and a necklace (or worn during the day for sightseeing). Men can invest in a packable travel blazer and wrinkle-free dress pants.

Reusable/foldable bag

Whether you're heading to the local market or going on a day trip, a packable tote like the CALPAK Compakt Tote Bag is ideal for stowing your daytime essentials and finds you buy along the way. If you're the type that likes to buy a lot of souvenirs from your travels, the Lug Packable Boxer is ideal to use for a day tote while traveling and as a personal item on your return flight. One of these reusable bags can also double as a beach bag. Or, if you want to bring a beach bag to double as your everyday travel bag, check out the best beach bags from U.S. News for additional recommendations.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Focus on the moment (and enjoy the visual later) with a digital camera like the Panasonic Lumix G100 4K . A mirrorless model with both the ability to capture video and still images offers versatility whether you want to record the waves at sunset or snap a selfie in front of a museum. To get creative angles or have a tripod on the go, the Joby GorillaPod is a flexible and bendable option for travel.

If you're an active traveler, a GoPro HERO9 is a must-pack item. It has built-in stabilization features, and you can livestream your endeavors, film video or shoot images with this waterproof design. For a vintage-infused photo gallery, the Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is a hybrid camera that allows you to store images on a memory card or print them directly from the device. It's the perfect way to document your travels along the way.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the oceans with reef-safe sunscreen . Depending on your destination, some places – including Hawaii; Key West, Florida; Aruba; parts of Mexico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, to name a few – have laws against the sale of sunscreens with reef-harming ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Many of the traditional brands of sunscreen have these ingredients, so look for an effective mineral-based sunscreen like Blue Lizard or Sun Bum .

In addition to sunscreen, a hat protects your face from the sun's harmful rays. What's more, it can be a fashionable addition to your beach attire. A packable style like the San Diego Hat Company women's large brim hat can be rolled and packed into a suitcase or carry-on, and provide a generous amount of shade at the beach, by the lake and beyond. For more recommendations, see U.S. News' list of the best beach hats .

While there's an endless array of bathing suit options, classic styles like a black tank suit for women can be paired with a long skirt to be transformed into an outfit. Or, a classic men's swim trunk can be worn with a polo top to maximize your vacation wardrobe. For the kids, Lands' End offers cute and functional designs for girls and boys .

Beach towels

Whether you want to add something soft to your favorite beach chair or you want to lay it right on the sand, a beach towel that repels sand and dries quickly is a vacation must-have. Consider a quick-drying oversized Turkish towel from Amazon or an attention-grabbing Lilly Pulitzer beach towel . You may also want to invest in a beach blanket .

Ideal as added sun protection or for walking through the air-conditioned corridors of a resort or cruise ship, a cute swimsuit cover-up is another packing essential. Some options include a chic J.Crew beach shirt , a stylish romper or a sheer La Blanca kimono .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Nothing says laid-back vacation like a pair of flip-flops. Havaianas has styles for the whole family , in an array of colors and prints to coordinate with your beach attire.

Water shoes

Cuts on feet from coral, shells or even glass can be extremely painful. To protect the soles of you and yours, consider the Native Jefferson shoes , available in both children's and adult sizes. Designed for street wear, these versatile shoes are also water-friendly, making them ideal for everything from strolling the boardwalk to tubing down the river. For a more traditional water shoe, check out the Keen Newport sandals .

Sunscreen and cover-ups may protect your skin, but the sun can really hurt your eyes (especially when it reflects off the water). Top off your vacation style with Ray-Ban aviators or a classic Wayfarer . If you're seeking a chic retro vibe, you can't go wrong with a Kate Spade cat-eye frame.

More Vacation Packing Lists

Check out these other packing guides compiled by U.S. News:

• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Packing List
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• Road Trip Packing List
• Camping Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag, a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote. She used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans
• How to Renew Your Passport
• TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Is Right for You?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist: What to Pack and Why

Table of contents, introducing your comprehensive travel packing checklist.

I think that one of the most basic questions people ask when preparing for a trip is “What to pack!?” I know first hand how stressful this part can be for any trip. You don’t want to forget something very important and useful, but at the same time you dread the idea of carrying tons of luggage with you. And if you have only one carry-on, then it is a nightmare to make your list short, but efficient. OH and don`t get me started on that most horrific thought, when you are on the airport or on the road and you remember that you forgot THAT important document or item! I swear I have nightmares with this scenario days before I leave for my trip! 

If you find yourself in any of these situations, or you want a complete list with travel items, then you arrived at the best place. Welcome to the ultimate resource for stress-free travel preparations! This comprehensive travel packing checklist is your go-to guide for ensuring that you are fully prepared for your upcoming adventure. From essential clothing items and accessories to vital documents and gadgets, this travel packing checklist has it all. 

I feel like starting a trip by being prepared with anything you need can boost your confidence in the planning department so much. You can begin By making a travel packing checklist. Because who wants to forget their battery charger for their camera? Scarry, right?! 

To help you even more, at the end of this article I’m leaving a simplified list with all the travel items mentioned here. So even if this is a long read for you, just scroll down any time and copy and paste the travel packing checklist on your phone. Or, if you are using Pinterest, you can save the dedicated pin in your board.

Just to let you know… This post (probably) contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, and I may receive a small commission when you click on the links. This is at no extra cost to you and allows me to keep running this website. How cool is that?! I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.

Simplifying the Packing Process with Essential Items

Packing for a trip should be exciting, not overwhelming. I knew that in theory and in the past I tried to keep that in mind every time I start packing, but as soon as I start adding items in my luggage I become more and more anxious. I thought that I was taking too many clothes, or not the proper shoes, or what if I forget my charger? Or my camera? It never occurred to me that my travel game was missing a travel packing checklist!

In time I started to understand that the key to successful packing is having a checklist that I can adjust for each trip, because every destination is different in terms of weather conditions or the activities that I plan to do. But by having a travel packing checklist I make sure that at least I will have all my travel essentials with me. Also, it liberates me from the anxiety and stress of the “what if…” thought. 

If you find yourself in the same situation and dread making your bags, don’t worry I’m here to simplify this process and streamline your packing routine. I know that every traveler is different and its needs are unique because there are so many types of activities and travel styles, such as backpacking, road-tripping, hiking, going on luxury holidays, cycling and so on. This is why I made this travel packing checklist as complete as possible. And to make it easier for you to design your own checklist, I divided the list into 2 categories: travel must-haves (that are generally required in every trip, no matter the type) and less common, but useful travel items (that apply only in certain situations or destinations).

The goal of this travel packing checklist is for you to say goodbye to the stress of overpacking and underpacking and focus solely on the joy and excitement that a new trip is bringing.

Also, feel free to update the checklist and move things around if you feel like it. Maybe some items in the less common section are must-have for you. So, make it your own.

Travel Essentials: Your Must-Have Packing List

Clothing staples: what to wear for comfort and style.

Depending on your fashion style I suggest you do a little planning in advance and don’t throw every favorite thing from your closet in your luggage. Chances are you are going to wear only half of them, but your luggage is going to be full and difficult to navigate. Believe me, I’ve been there and I hated it, especially when I got home and had to unpack everything. This is why I always start my travel packing checklist with the clothes items.

First of all, find out the weather conditions or the climate of your destination. Second, think about the activities that you are planning to do such as hiking, walking, sunbathing and so on. After that and with the number of days for your trip in mind, you can design your outfits.

For you to master the packing game, try to not take more than you need. For example, if you are going to stay 7 days in a hot place, then take 7 T-shirts or 4 dresses and 3 T-shirts and 3-4 pairs of pants. My advice is to stick to basics, don’t complicate your outfits and most importantly, don’t take items that you usually don’t wear at home because chances are they are uncomfortable or hard to style. The goal during your holiday is to relax and have fun, not stress about uncomfortable outfits. If you are traveling to a cold place, or during winter, then think how you can layer up and combine a few items and create multiple outfits. 

Also, another important tip is to take things that generally go well together. We all have in our closet that skirt that matches only one blouse in our wardrobe. Don’t take that skirt thinking that you are going to wear it, you aren’t, trust me.

In the past I made the mistake of putting things in my luggage thinking “Oh, maybe I will feel like wearing this!”, and repeated it for basically my whole wardrobe. Spoiler alert: I will not. The thing is that when you are traveling you want to spend your time relaxing, exploring and moving around easily, not trying to figure out what to wear. This is why it is so important to have a few things, but easy to match and wear. Planning your outfits before your trip is going to take a huge stress from you. Stick to the travel packing checklist that you already made and you’ll be fine.

That being said, I feel like this couldn’t be a travel packing checklist, without a checklist, so I’m going to write down the most basic items that you should have with you, and build from there:

• Basic T-shirts (especially in colors that are matching most of your pants and shoes, for example white);
• Basic pants (that pair of jeans that fits you perfectly and it can be match with all of your T-shirts);
• Dresses (if you are a female and like wearing them, then I should advice to take a few because you are having an entire outfit with one piece and also, you are going to look cute in photos);
• Underwear (I’m not going to tell you how many panties you should take :)), but try not to overpack);
• Belts (if you need them, not more than 2);
• Hat (if you are visiting a hot destination).

Footwear: Shoes for Every Occasion

I must start this by saying: don’t take too many shoes! Especially those pairs of high heels that make your feet hurt every time. Remember, while traveling comfort is everything, so choose only shoes that are easy to wear and that match most of your outfits. Personally I recommend you take only an extra pair, excluding the ones you are wearing on the day of your departure. 

Preferably, pack the ones that are lighter and wear the ones that are bigger or occupy the most space. Also, if you are planning to go to the beach, then don’t forget to also pack slippers. If you plan to go hiking, then don’t forget to take proper shoes. I know those can be very heavy and bulky, this is why I recommend you wear them on the first day of traveling.

Necessary Accessories: Enhancing Your Outfits

Like I said, you can do many outfits with only a few pieces of clothing, especially if you pack some accessories like a belt or a hat that can give your outfit a different look. Pack smarter and take small items and accessories with you, instead of many clothes.

Documents and IDs: Travel Must-Haves

One of the things that scares me a lot is to forget an important document at home. I mean, I can travel without my favorite dress, but for sure I can’t do it without my passport. I highly recommend having a travel packing checklist for documents, even if you don’t use any other list. 

Most of them you need to have on your phone, but I suggest you download photos of them in a local folder, because there may be occasions when you don’t have access to the internet.

Here is the travel packing checklist for documents and ID’s:

• Passport and/or ID card (make sure you take the one that is required);
• Visa (if it’s required, you will need to check that before your trip);
• Driver’s license (especially if you are planning on renting a car);
• Hotel reservation
• Credit/Debit card and cash (some rentals require you use a credit card, so make sure you have one)
• Travel insurance documents. 

I would like to highlight the importance of having travel insurance, because I feel like people often overlook this aspect. I know I did, because I felt like I paid for nothing thinking that “What are the stakes of something bad happening?!” And happy to report that nothing bad happened, but if it did, well I would have regretted not having travel insurance. Better safe, than sorry. Of course, you don’t need to have an expensive one, but you are going to feel more relaxed and at ease knowing that you have this safety net. 

Summarizing it, here are the main reasons why having travel insurance is important(these depend on the travel insurance particulates):

• financial protection against unexpected expenses;
• coverage for medical emergencies and treatment abroad;
• reimbursement for trip cancellations, delays and interruptions;
• assistance and support 24/7, especially in emergencies;
• tailored coverage for various travel styles and needs
• peace of mind to enjoy a trip worry-free (which is one of the most important ones).

I feel like travel insurance is an affordable investment compared to the potential risks. If you are interested in good travel insurance, then you should check out this link here (or save it for future trips) .

Toiletries and Medications: Staying Fresh and Healthy

Most accommodations offer some sort of toiletries, but generally the quantities aren’t sufficient for your stay. Also, if you have sensitive skin, or prefer to use your own products, then you need to take your essentials. This is why I always include on my travel packing checklist, my  daily products. Make sure you pack everything in approved recipients (especially if you are traveling only with a carry-on). Honestly, I suggest you pack your toiletries in small containers no matter what luggage you have, because you are going to have so much free space left! If you are interested, them check out this ones here . I own this set (see the picture below) and besides the fact that the design is very cute and colorful, they are very easy to use!

Also, it is also recommended you take with you some basic medication in case of emergencies. You are going to find pharmacies, but it’s good to have your own. Especially, if you know that you suffer regularly from stomach pain or migraines or get sunburn very easily.

Here is the travel packing checklist for essential toiletries and medication:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste;
• Shampoo and conditioner (i don’t know about you, but I can’t live without my conditioner);
• Skincare products (i suggest you take only the basic one like cleanser, serum and cream);
• Travel-size first aid kit (with medication for usual pains and also for common problems like diarrhea or sunburns);
• Tampons (if you are a girl).

If you are looking for approved containers for your toiletries, then check out these cute ones, here . These are the ones I own and I love the quality and the design of them.  Also, I find this set of medication bags amazing! The bigger one is perfect for long vacations and the smaller one is ideal if you want to have medication with you all the time. I put in them the medication for the whole family, including for my baby and it’s amazing how great fits in my luggage. You should check them out !

Gadgets and Tech: Enhancing Connectivity and Exploration

Depending on your travel style and preferences, this travel packing checklist may differ, but this list contains the most common items that travelers need on their adventures:

• Smartphone and charger
• Power bank (so useful when you spend your days roaming the streets or hiking and it’s hard to keep your phone and devices working)
• Universal travel adapter (check out this travel adapter that is a best seller on Amazon!)
• Headphones or earbuds (I recommend noise cancellation ones, like this ones )
• Camera and accessories like batteries and memory cards (if you are a photographer or like to take tons of photos)
• Laptop or tablet (if you work remote, or enjoy watching movies during your travels)
• Travel-size cable organizer (if you want to master the packing game, then you need a nice cable organizer, otherwise you are going to have an entanglement of cables in your backpack and it’s so annoying).

If you are interested in a really nice and useful travel-size cable organizer, then you should check out this one, here .

Enhance Your Journey: Less Common, Yet Essential Items

Packing aids: organizers, compression bags, and more.

If you want to become an advanced travel packer and simplify your life during your adventures, then you need to invest in some travel organizers, compression bags and similar items. Add them to your travel packing checklist and you are going to see a huge difference. There are a lot of products available on the market, but before you go and buy all of them, think about your needs and what is missing from your travel packing game.

If you are interested, here are my favorite products to use for organizing my bags:

• Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases
• BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes Luggage Packing Organizers
• BAGAIL 4 Set/5 Set/6 Set Compression Packing Cubes
• BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook
• Travel Cable Organizer Bag Pouch

Tech and Gadgets: Innovative Tools for Smooth Travels

If you are a passionate photographer, travel blogger, content creator, then you will need extra gear with you during your travel, such as:

• Additional camera accessories (tripod, lentils for different scenarios);

Comfort Boosters: Neck Pillows, Eye Masks, and beyond

The items that I included in this subcategory seem insignificant or things that are obvious, but people tend to overlook them, or forget about them,

Here is the travel packing checklist for comfort boosters:

• Neck pillow 

So useful when you are going on long flights.  Sleeping in the plane without one is very uncomfortable.

• Bag for dirty clothes

Believe me, you don’t want to throw your dirty clothes in your suitcase and create a mess. Having a bag for dirty clothes will keep everything organized and tight. 

• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

These are so important to have in your small bag or carry on. Chances are you are going to touch a lot of things and you will want to clean your hands before lunch or having a snack. If you put them on your travel packing checklist you are going to thank me, I assure you.

• Kindle or a physical book

If you love reading, as much as I do, then maybe you should move this one to the essential travel items. My Kindle is always part of my travel packing checklist, no matter if I leave for the weekend or a couple of weeks.

• Portable luggage scale

Even if you are going to weigh your luggage before your trip, if you are planning to shop during your trip, then having a portable luggage scale can save you the headache from the airport. You can check out this one , which is an Amazon best seller.

If you are flying long hours chances are your eyes are going to go very dry. Also, if you skip sleep during your travels, then applying a eye mask can be a life charger, because you are going to look and feel better afterwards;

• Portable wifi Hotspot Device

If you are someone that watches a lot of movies during holiday, or doing remote work, then having this device will improve your work for sure.

• Recycled water bottle

If you are always on the road or on long hikes, having a water bottle with you is a must. If you are thinking of investing in a good quality water bottle, I highly encourage you to buy one that is made from recycled or natural elements. 

• Travel planner

If you are like me and love to plan your itinerary or travel plans using a pen and paper, then a great travel planner is a must. My favorite one that I’m using at the moment is amazing and I recommend it because it’s easy to carry in your backpack, has dedicated pages to planning and writing impressions of your destinations. You can check it out here .

Plan and Pack: Your Stress-Free Travel Prep

The convenience of a checklist: simplifying packing.

The first step in setting up for success in the travel packing game is to make a checklist. Even if you hate making lists (I got you, if that’s the case), having a travel packing checklist is going to take so much of the pressure and stress of getting ready for your trip. Also, putting things on paper or writing on an app will clear your head and program your mind to stick to the essential items only. In the long run you are going to travel lighter and smarter, while also having all the items that you need for comfort and pleasure with you. Also, keep in mind that you need to leave some free space in your luggage. If you are like me, then chances are that you are going to buy souvenirs that will serve you as reminders of your destinations. 

What is also fun about having a travel packing checklist is that you are going to learn to be more organized and maybe learn to enjoy this whole process.

Tailoring Your Packing to the Destination and Duration

If you want to make the best and most efficient travel packing checklist, you need to take into consideration the destination and the duration. With these two in mind you can start to plan your outfits depending on the weather and the particularities of your trip. And of course, you are going to think about the duration, because it is so easy to overpack when you don’t think about the number of days.

Your travel packing checklist

As promised here is your travel packing checklist. Feel free to copy it and use it as it is, or adjust it to your own needs.

Must-haves:

Clothing items:

• Basic T-shirts 
• Basic pants 

Documents and IDs:

• Passport and/or ID card 
• Driver’s license 
• Credit/Debit card and cash 

Toiletries and Medications: 

• Shampoo and conditioner 
• Skincare products (cleanser, serum and cream);

Gadgets and Tech: 

• Power bank 
• Universal travel adapter 
• Headphones or earbuds 
• Camera and accessories like batteries and memory cards 
• Travel-size cable organizer 

Less common, but important:

Tech and Gadgets: 

Comfort Boosters:

• Portable Wifi Hotspot Device

Conclusion: Ready to Pack for Your Next Adventure?

I know how excited I get every time I think about a future trip, but the planning and preparations that come after you book your vacation can be a joy killer.

With time, I discovered that it is better to take my time and put some effort in writing a travel packing checklist before I start to throw things in my luggage. Being organized during your trips will make you enjoy the journey more and not worry about the logistics. 

I hope that this article with my travel packing checklist helped you design a stress free vacation mentality in the future. Feel free to leave a comment and let me know if you think  I should add more items to this checklist. 

Also, if you are looking for some travel inspiration or you are in need of finding a new amazing destination, then I suggest you check out my travel guides .

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 and the Best Vacation Packing Tips (Printable)

Before taking a vacation, it’s a good idea plan. In addition to planning your itinerary, you also need to figure out what you will pack. Taking the time to sort out what you need to bring before you leave is an excellent way to prepare well for your trip. If you haven’t traveled in a while or you feel like you’re always missing essential items when you travel, this travel packing guide may help. Are you taking a trip soon? Here’s what you need to know before you pack for your next trip or vacation.

Table of Contents

What to Consider Before You Pack

Before you begin packing, it’s best to think more about the trip you will be taking. After all, not all trips are the same, and some trips may require different items.

Here are some things to consider:

• What bags to bring: Your travel plans and airline’s baggage policy may dictate what bags you bring. Knowing what bags you plan to bring before you begin packing is a must. That way, you can strategize and not overpack based on the luggage space available. 
• Number of travel days: You want to have plenty of clothes and essentials for your entire trip. Make sure that you pack plenty of items for the number of days you plan to travel. If you’re staying in a home rental with laundry facilities, you may be able to pack less and do laundry during your trip. If you prefer to pack light, check to see if you’ll have access to laundry facilities or if there is a laundromat near your accommodation. 
• The weather situation: You want to make sure that you pack clothes that will be comfortable for the weather. Check the expected temperature, see if there will be rain or snow, and let this information guide you when packing. If you don’t pack appropriate clothing and gear, you may have to spend money when you arrive or risk being very uncomfortable. If you have room, bring a compact umbrella.
• The type of trip you plan to have: Your planned activities and travel style will also dictate what you need to pack. If you’re all about comfort and hope to lounge around a lot, you may not need to pack many dress clothes. If you’re an adventure seeker who plans to participate in recreational activities, athletic attire and appropriate shoes are necessary. 
• What you can buy at your destination: Some items may make more sense to buy at your destination. For example, if you’re only bringing a carry-on bag, you might decide to buy a bottle of full-size sunscreen after you arrive. When creating your packing list, note items that you can easily buy at your destination to avoid wasting space.

The Vacationer Tip

Review your airline’s baggage policies before packing. Here are polices for some of the top airlines.

– American Airlines Baggage Policy – Delta Air Lines Baggage Policy – Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy – United Airlines Baggage Policy

How to Decide Which Items to Put in Which Bags

When it comes time to pack for your trip, take some time to think about which bag each item will go in; for example, if you’re planning to check luggage, some things may make more sense to go in your checked bag rather than your carry-on bag. Additionally, some items may not be allowed in your carry-on bag—such as full-sized liquid products.  

If you take any medication or have other essential items that you’re packing, those items should stay close to you—such as in a carry-on bag or personal item, like a backpack or purse. Checked bags may get lost or delayed, and you don’t want to be without essential medications or other necessary items. If you’re packing medications, the TSA recommends they be clearly labeled. 

As you pack your carry-on bag, It’s also a good idea to bring at least one change of clothes with you. If something happens to your checked baggage, you’ll be thankful that you have some clothes to change into after traveling. 

If you’re traveling with a laptop or another electronic device, like an iPad, keep those items in an easy-to-access place (like upfront or in a laptop pocket). These items will need to be removed from your carry-on bag, purse, or backpack during security screening. If they’re not accessible, it will take you longer to get through security, and you’ll hold up the line.

Further Reading: Carry-On Essentials for Flights and Best Carry-On Luggage

Packing Liquids

As you prepare for your trip, don’t forget to consider which liquids you’ll need to bring. If you’re bringing some checked luggage, you’ll need to consider which liquid items will go in your checked bag vs your carry-on luggage. 

If you plan to pack liquids in your carry-on bag, they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less. They also need to fit in one quart-sized resealable bag. If you’re traveling with multiple people, each person can have one quart-sized resealable bag with appropriately sized liquids. Ensure that all containers are sealed well, so you don’t have a mess all over your suitcase and belongings. 

When you go through the security screening process at the airport, you’ll need to remove your bag of liquids and place it in a bin; You do not have to remove your liquids if you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry . To conserve space, focus on packing liquids that you need. Most hotels and some home rentals provide essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Before packing, check to see what will be provided at your accommodation.

Packing Shoes

Most people plan to bring more than one pair of shoes when traveling. If you have several pairs of shoes that you want to bring, you may be worried about wasting space. But if you’re strategic, you can pack several shoes and make it work. 

One way to save on space is to use the empty area inside your shoes to your advantage. You can fill your shoes with smaller items such as socks, underwear, and belts. If you’re worried about dirty shoes, put disposable shower caps on the bottoms of your shoes. If you don’t have these, you can use smaller plastic bags to protect your clothes from dirt.

Ideas to Maximize Space

If you’re looking to maximize the space that you have available, you may be wondering how to pack your items to save room. Here are some techniques that may help: 

Packing cubes: Some travelers use packing cubes for their clothing items and accessories. These cubes can help by slightly compressing your items, so they take up a bit less space in your bag. If you’ve never tried packing cubes, it may be worthwhile to give them a chance. 

Rolling instead of folding: Another option to consider is rolling your clothes. This does take time,  but you may find that you’re able to fit more items in your bag this way. Just make sure that you remember to roll your clothes back up when packing up to head home. 

Choose versatile clothing items: You can also save on space by strategically choosing which clothing items you bring. Consider packing versatile clothing items that work well for multiple outfits. As an example, packing clothing with neutral colors is a great idea. You can wear items multiple times without it looking obvious. Doing this will make it easier to mix and match outfits, and you may find that you can pack fewer items. 

Buy some items at your destination: If you only have so much space to work with, buying some things at your destination may be the best bet. Make sure that you consider cost and availability before choosing to do this.

Suggested Vacation Packing List

Having a packing list can help you make sure that everything you need makes it into your suitcase. If you’re forgetful, printing out your list and checking off each item as you pack is recommended. Here’s a suggested packing list to follow as you prepare for your next trip:

Here are our recommended clothing and apparel items to pack.

Shoes and Accessories

Here are our recommended shoes and accessories to pack.

Here are our recommended toiletries to pack.

Miscellaneous

Here are our recommended miscellaneous items to pack.

Comforts for travel (suggested to pack in personal item)

Here are our recommended comfort items to pack.

Tips for success

With proper planning and good organization, you can ensure that you pack everything that you need for your upcoming trip. The following tips can help you have more success: 

• Make a packing list and check each item off as you pack . It may seem silly, but this practice can help you avoid forgetting must-have items. You’ll be glad that you have what you need.
• Start with your must-have items. As you begin to pack, start with essential items. This way, you don’t forget to bring what you truly need. 
• Keep items packed up. Once you check an item off your list, ensure it stays in your packed bag. If you remove something and forget to make a note, you may end up leaving without it. 
• Don’t forget masks. When traveling during the pandemic, you’ll want to bring plenty of masks. Mask requirements vary by destination, and you want to make sure that you have what you need before you arrive. 
• Know your airline’s baggage rules. If you bring an overweight or too-large bag, you may get stuck paying extra fees. Check your airline’s sizing and weight rules before you begin packing, and double-check the weight once your bag is all packed up.  
• Consider wrinkles when choosing clothing items. Some fabrics are more wrinkle-resistant than others. If you don’t have access to an iron or a dryer, (I’m not the only one that de-wrinkles my clothes this way, right?!) try to pick materials that are less likely to get wrinkled. 
• Wear bulky items. Bulky items take up a lot of space and weight. If you plan to bring a bulky winter jacket or boots, for example, wear them on the plane. You’ll have what you need without taking up space and weight in your bag. 
• Do laundry while traveling. If at all possible, do laundry while traveling. Whether you stay in a home rental with laundry facilities or stop at a laundromat, this can help reduce the number of clothes you need to pack.
• Don’t overpack. It can be easy to overpack accidentally. Focus on what you truly need instead of bringing “maybe” items.
• Ensure your house is in order. Before leaving, make sure all of your lights are off and your alarm system is set if you have one. Other things to do include watering your plants, taking out the trash, setting automatic pet feeders, and notifying your credit card companies of your travel.

Yes, you can travel with liquids. Liquid containers must be no larger than 3.4 ounces, and all liquid containers must fit in one resealable quart-sized bag. If you want to bring larger liquid items, they must be packed in checked baggage.

Experiment with different methods of packing. Some travelers find success using packing cubes, while others find better success rolling their clothes. The more you experiment, the better you’ll get at maximizing space.

Make a packing list and check each item off as you put it in your bag.

Consider keeping electronics, valuables, money, your passport, essential medicine, and a change of clothes with you. If your checked baggage gets lost or is delayed, you’ll have what you need with you.

While you can do this, it’s recommended that you don’t put valuables in your checked baggage. Instead, place them in your carry-on bag or personal item. Putting valuables in a purse or backpack under the seat in front of you is best because it will be near you. If you place valuables in a checked bag, they could be stolen.

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Don’t leave your packing until the very last moment. If you do this, you may be unprepared once you arrive at your destination. With proper planning, packing can be easy and quick. Follow the tips above for the best success as you begin to pack for your trip. See our beach vacation packing list for more specifics if you will be vacationing near the ocean or a lake.

By Natasha Gabrielle

Natasha has been a freelance writer since 2015. She specializes in writing travel and credit card rewards content. When not busy writing, she’s either dreaming up her next credit card rewards redemption or traveling the globe. Her goal is to encourage more people to experience the world around them while making smart money choices.

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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!

The Ultimate Packing List

This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:

• Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
• Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
• General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

• Packing List For Luggage
• Packing List For Clothes
• Packing List For Toiletries
• Packing List For First Aid Kit
• Packing List For Makeup
• Packing List For Hair and Grooming
• Packing List For Electronics
• Packing List For Backpacking Gear

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

• Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:

• you can write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
• you can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• and most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item

Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!

  Packing List by Categories

Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.

Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Airplane Outfit: Top , Bottom , Shoes

I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.

If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel .

You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.

A purse for travel is a must-have for a day spent sightseeing, here are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing which day bag to join you on your next trip!

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!

• Packing Cubes for Clothes
• Packing Organizer for Accessories
• Packing Organizer for Electronics
• Toiletry Bag
• First Aid (if applicable)
• Document Holder
• Other Organizers (as needed)
• Daypack/Personal item

Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest! 

Watch this video to discover TFG editor’s travel capsule wardrobe must-haves, that are versatile, chic, and timeless

No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe . These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

Best Selling T-Shirt: L.L. Bean Pima Tee

In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel . It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.

• Dress (or other) 1
• Dress (or other) 2

Visit our  travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants , stylish travel dresses , and the best  cold weather items .

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.

You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel .

For underwear , we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear .

• Outerwear 1
• Outerwear 2
• Sleepwear 1
• Sleepwear 2
• Underwear 1-10

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

Leith Dress  ( similar) |   Naot Sabrina Flat Sandal |  Rebecca Minkoff Backpack | Sunhat

Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.

Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk 4 Charcoal Comfortable Sneakers

For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.

We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats , walking shoes , travel sandals , hiking shoes , waterproof boots , ankle boots , and more.

• Purse – Day
• Purse – Night
• Sunglasses Case
• Watch (or Travel Clock)
• Gloves (if applicable)

Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.

“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.

Best Selling Toiletry Bag: eBags Pack-it-Flat Hanging Toiletry Kit

Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.

• Conditioner
• Leave-In Conditioner
• Soap/Body Wash
• Deodorant/Antiperspirant
• Body Moisturizer
• Face Moisturizer

Optional Toiletries:

• Baby Powder (hot climates)
• Pumice Stone
• Hair Styling Product
• Female Urinal Device
• Menstrual Cup
• Toilet Paper

Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip .

First Aid Kit (optional)

Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit ”.

• Prescription Medication
• Contact Solution (if needed)
• Pain Relievers
• Travel-size Tissue Packet
• Digestion Tablets
• Upset Stomach Medication
• Allergy Pills
• Motion Sickness Tablets
• Antibacterial wipes/gel
• Bug Repellant (Deet-Free)
• Travel Size Sewing Kit

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.

• Eyebrow Pencil
• Eye shadow palette
• Lipstick/lip gloss

Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.

Hair / Grooming

Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.

• Travel Size Hair Brush
• Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

• Travel Size Blow Dryer
• Travel Size Hair Dryer Brush 
• Travel Size Flat Iron 
• Travel Size Curling Iron 

Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!

Electronics

The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.

International Universal Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad . Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.

• International Travel Adapter
• Phone Charger
• Phone Cover
• Camera Charger
• Camera Battery 
• Camera Memory Card
• Camera Cover
• Memory Stick (with important info)
• e-Reader Charger
• e-Reader Cover

Optional Electronics:

• Tablet Charger
• Tablet Cover
• Laptop Charger
• Laptop Cover
• Laptop Case
• Screen Protector
• Keyboard Protector
• External Hard Drive
• External Hard Drive Cord
• Portable Power Bank
• Portable Power Bank Cord
• Music Device
• Music Device Charger

Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight .

Editor’s Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (similar)

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.

Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.

• Sleeping Bag Liner
• 2 Travel Locks
• Travel Towel
• Swiss Army Knife
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Packable Tote
• Mosquito Net
• Pillow Case
• Laundry Bag
• Laundry Line
• Travel Pillow
• Disposable Poncho
• Travel Size Umbrella
• Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)

If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post. If you’re staying at hostels, read this post. If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.

With the exception of your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.

• Passport Copy
• Passport Holder
• Boarding Pass
• Itinerary (some airlines require this printed when you have to check in in-person)
• Visas in passport (if needed)
• Immunization Records (if there are health requirements such as yellow fever)
• Emergency Cash in USD (enough for one full day)
• Credit Cards
• Drivers License / Alternate Form of ID
• Language Guide
• Notebook (to note addresses in paper, not phone)
• Pen (to fill out immigration forms)
• Emergency Contact Info
• Travel Insurance
• Copies of all travel documents (in memory card, USB stick, or stored in email)

Watch the video above for tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.

Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings, such as using one of these anti-theft devices.

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

Anti-theft products  that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!

Best Selling Anti-theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Black Messenger Bag

While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse  in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.

• RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
• Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)

Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling .

Pre-Trip Checklist

These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.

• Call banks to inform of travel plans
• Immunizations
• Check weather at destination
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check visa regulations
• Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)

Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.

The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!

The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes . When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint .

The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.

Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!

Destination Packing Lists

We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!

For destinations, please read:

• Europe Packing Lists
• Asia Packing Lists
• Africa Packing Lists
• North America Packing Lists
• South America Packing Lists
• South Pacific Packing Lists

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I hope you liked this travel packing list of things to bring on vacation! Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

96 comments.

Your packing lists and tips are the best! It’s so easy to forget an important item, and your lists help avoid that. Thanks!!

Is ultimate packing list is what help me to prepare our very first 17 day trip in Europe (Italy and Spain). I’ve recently sent it to Friends to share the wealth! I absolutely love the Travel Fashion Girl site!

Love this whole blog, this entire post is very helpful all being in one post! Thank you for helping us travel!

The idea of packing cubes was not foreign to me; however, after reading all these tips and putting them into practice, my hubby and I were both able to travel 3+ weeks in Europe last Fall with only an AWAY carry-on suitcase and a backpack that I ordered specifically to fit under the seats on European inter-company smaller planes. Thanks so much for saving us, as we will likely never travel the same as we used to!

Thank you for creating these packing list. They are very helpful.

This list has been incredibly helpful!! I have always maintained a customizable packing list that I came up with years ago, but this took my list to the next level and was significantly helpful in keeping myself organized for a recent 2-week, backpack-only, trip I just took to Europe! I have traveled to 35 countries and continue to return back to TFG for fresh tips, outfit ideas, the best packing tools, and lots of other helpful information! Thank you so much to TFG and this wonderful community of women!!

Super helpful info- I added a bunch of tops and dresses to my Amazon list. I’ve already got many of the items you recommend- one of my favorites is the electronic cords organizer. I never leave home without it!

Your packing lists are fantastic! I don’t have to think so hard! Thank you!

I have used these packing lists time and time again. They have helped me pack exactly what I need and cut down on items I won’t need. I used to be an overpacker but these lists have solved that problem!

I have been traveling carry-on only for years now (whether it’s a hardside bag or my backpack), and I’m always looking for new capsule wardrobe ideas!

I printed out the packing list for Italy the beginning of this year as I prepared for my May departure. I kept it in my purse at all times so no matter where I was, I had it to refer to when I was I happened to be in a store. It was super helpful in keeping me focused. Thanks !

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

Love, love, love these checklists! I used one on my two week trip to Italy last May and it was so helpful. Planning to use one again on our girls trip to London and Paris in April. 🧳

I have always used a packing list. It helps me know that I haven’t forgotten something and not over pack. I love the Compass rose packing cubes…I bought a set for hubby and myself. We use them a lot. Thanks for all of your tips and info…now to just get a trip planned!!

I love everything about travel fashion girl, but having these already made printable packing lists are the best thing ever! They are going to come in really handy as I’m preparing to take my two teenage granddaughters to France in March and this will give them a good idea of what they need to pack and how to do it. Of course I will supervise lol!

Thanks so much for sharing this list! It was so helpful for my recent trip to Panama. The Leith dress was a great addition to my travel and everyday wardrobe!

I’ve been working with fine tuning my packing list for years. If my husband says, “do you want to go to …?” I can be fully packed for any type of trip in 20 minutes.

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

Never j ew what a packing cube was until I read your site. You are a life saver! Now I can’t live without them!

Love lists to help me feel confident that I’m ready! Your lists and advice are so helpful.

These lists are so helpful and love the packing cube video.

I love your blogs, you do amazing research have have great practical tips on how to best travel.

I went to Italy in the spring and the first thing I did before getting ready to go was read your blog to see what I should get that would help make it the best trip.

I also try to travel with only carry-on luggage, so you helpful suggestions are amazing.

I have used these packing list as the basis for my upcoming trip to England. This is the most prepared and least anxious I have ever felt about packing for a big trip. I love that the list comes with shopping links/reccomendations as well as reccomendations on where to pack it. If you’re short on time – the most helpful shopping list was the toiletry list. It provided great suggestions on how to stay within the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines even if you are planning to be away for a lengthy trip! Thank you!!

I love this blog!! These packing lists are a lifesaver!!

Thanks TFG for the best Packing Checklist! I use it everytime I go! And this year, 2022, I’ve been making up for not being able to go for the past two years. After a cruise in March and a month in Hawaii in the summer, I’m now packing for a Baltic cruise after a couple of days in London. The destination lists for London, Finland, Norway, etc. have been so very helpful, too. I’m pretty confident that I’ve packed what I’ll need. Haven’t yet tried carry-on-only and probably never will, but I’m pretty proud that I put at least 5 items back into the closet instead of in my suitcase this time!

While researching for our two-week vacation to Munich, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I discovered your web site. I am so happy I did! Since we were traveling to so many places in a relatively short period of time, and using a carry-on and personal bag only, it was essential that I pack efficiently. Your capsule wardrobe and packing cubes were a game changer! I admit I fudged a bit and threw in a couple of extra items but never even wore them. Thank you so much for the great information!!

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

I honestly go over this packing list every time I go on a trip! So helpful. Also a side note, their subscription emails are amazing. Simply the best.

When I was finally able to travel internationally, this list was what I used to help me organize. Congratulations on 10 years and all you e accomplished- and thank you. 🙂

Love, love, 💕 the packing lists! I’ve been using them for several years. I started prepping for my 3 week trip to Peru in September. Thank you for the guidance, recommendations and inspiration!

This spreadsheet is my favourite clothing packing list, and one I recommend to everyone for carry-on only, or even just lightening the load on small checked bags. It even works for kids’ packing. Excellent, comprehensive resource, thank you for creating it, and sharing it with us all!

Thank you for these wonderful suggestions!!! Going to London in early October and the printed checklist will be very handy. Thank you!!!! Love those pants!!!! I need them!!!!

Love this resource!! Seriously has been so helpful for planning a 2 week Europe trip! Also was so helpful for my week in Montana during the winter! Highly recommend!!

I love all your travel tips! I will definitely be referring to your packing list for my upcoming trip to Spain and Portugal.

The packing cubes are a great idea, but what about wrinkles? And is a steamer able to work on an adapter only?

Hi Tammy, one of the keys to avoiding wrinkles is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and to use the bundle wrapping method inside the packing cube! You can find more tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/

I love your blog❣️ I just returned from Portugal and met a new friend who turned me onto your emails. Please subscribe me, as I’m not on Social Media. All my best, and safe travels.

Hi Linda, just gone ahead and subscribed you to our newsletters. Hope you had the most incredible time in Portugal!!!

Thank you, your information has been most helpful. Amazon.ca doesn’t seem to have any of your recommended items for sale at present, especially The Comnpass Rose Slim Cubes. I used them on our last cruise and it made packing easy before, during and after the Cruise. Would recommend this to any traveller. M. J. Sutherland

That is so amazing to hear thank you Jean!!! Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again 😢

Hey, I’ve really enjoyed your site and recommendations on traveling lightly. I’m not sure if you’re still active on here but the link to your packing checklist seems to be broken.

Hi Sara, I am really sorry about this, we are having some problems fixing this issue on the blog.

If you would like a copy of our packing list, please email us at [email protected] and we will send you a copy straight away.

I pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested.

Hi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂

I’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack. I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try).

Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂

Thank you Theresa!

Hi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx

Hi Liz, read this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-singapore-vacation-tips-from-local-fashion-blogger/

I love detailed lists – helped me stay organized when I travel. Thank you for this!

Great post! I will go to Sicily soon and this look like a great way to start organizing my trip.

Thanks Patrizia!

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

As always I love reading all your post, but this one is probably my favorite!! It’s packed with really helpful tips, it’s something I always come back to, and is in many cases encouraging…. Lol but that couldn’t be any more true!!

Yay!!! Glad you enjoyed it even more than the others 🙂

This list makes me happy! Im an excel spreadhseet list make and this is perfect for a base to customize. Thanks!

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

So in going through the Ultimate Packing List (thank you for this by the way), I have a question about the clothes the traveler is wearing! I assume that’s included in the 10 items, but per the packing list, they are packed in something. You don’t get an extra set of clothes on top of the 10 items, right?? 🙂

For my Russia packing list (pre-UPL), I listed out all the items and then listed what was going in my suitcase, what in my backpack and then finally, what I was wearing! 😀

Great job for your trip to Russia Julie! That’s right, no extra clothes for travel – they are included in the ten items. However, ten is a good number to use as a guideline but it’s okay to go up or down a few items, too 😉

Hi, this is so helpful for me so I do not forget anything. The older I get and the more I travel, forgetting something seems to happen far too often. But not any longer!

Glad you like it Gayle!

I have been using these packing lists this Spring and Summer and they have totally changed the way I plan and pack for a trip! I love being able to customize it. The main thing this did was make me think about WHERE I wanted to put everything. I then also added a little “how many times I wore it/used it” column so I could analyze at the end as well and start planning for the next trip. Thank you so much for these organizers!

Wow that’s a great idea, good job Nadja!

So excited to use this packing list for my three big trips next year: mediterranean cruise, Machu Picchu and Cairo/Nile Cruise/Jordan!!

AMAZING destinations!

Great packing list post, we just spent 4 weeks in Alaska and now we are off to FiJi. Your packing list is a huge help.

That’s awesome David, thanks!

Great post! This is very helpful for people who need help on what to pack!

Thanks Valerie!

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

Hi Isabelle, they are on the way towards your inbox right now!

Thank you for making this packing list editable! I’m particularly loving the “How to Pack It” column, which is missing on so many other lists. It really helps me figure out which packing cubes/organizers to use, how to place it in my bag and also to mentally include clothing I’ll wear while traveling.

Thanks Megan! Glad you liked the “How to Pack It” column 🙂

Excellent packing list!! This will be very useful for me!

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

Right now I am packing for my trip to Italy and I am using only your list. It is amazing. For the first time I feel that I do not overpack, that I have everything what I really need, and that I won’t forget any stuff. Your blog has changed completety the way I pack. Thank you 🙂 xoxoxo

Yay! That’s great to hear, thank you Justine!

Great post! One question: Do the clothing lists include items you’re wearing, or just what’s in your bag? Also, I always bring dental floss; in addition to keeping my gums healthy, it’s awesome for sewing!

They include all clothes including what you wear on a flight 😉 Dental floss is a good add!

Perfect timing for my trip to Europe next month. Thanks!

Glad you like it Kim!

Wonderful, detailed list. I recommend your site to anyone asking about travel and packing light. Especially friends who want to travel and still look fashionable!

Thank you Kim 🙂

This is so comprehensive! I plan on referencing this next time I travel. Thank you for the breakdown.

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

I am going to Italy in October and I am so excited to find this blog at travelfashiongirl.com. I have been stressing about what to pack. Now, I have a detailed list to follow and I couldn’t be more happy! Thank you TFG!

Love it! You thought of everything! Will use this on my next trip (instead of recreating a new list which I seem to always do). Thanks!

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

Love having all of this info in one post! Thanks for the tips!

While I enjoy all your posts, this one is SERIOUSLY the best I’ve seen on your site – or any site, for that matter! Thanks so much for gathering this all together for your readers. You’ve thought of everything!!!

Ah-maz-ing! Just what I needed!!!

There’s a lot of different types of products that need to be stored during travel, but finding those emergency items is what’s important when you’re out there all prepared! These print-out lists are exactly what I’ve been using for myself since high school, & for nostalgia sake, that original template I put together & taped over to “laminate” it, is still there slipped behind the zippered space in my overall bathroom bag. Thanks for sharing your process! It seems like a lot of work that many individuals have appreciated finding!!

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Vacation Packing List

This Vacation Packing List includes all the travel essentials you need to get the most out of a week-long trip.

The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation

Packing list tool.

Our packing list tool allows you to customize this list to your exact needs. You can add specific products directly from our website, adjust quantity, and keep an eye on total weight and price. Sign up for a free account or Join Pro for additional features & deals.

Everyone relaxes a little differently. Sometimes you spend the whole day taking it easy, only moving from your lounge chair long enough to refill your cup with a fruity drink (you know the kind we’re talking about—half a coconut and a bendy straw). Other days, you feel the urge to venture off and experience local life, whether you’re making your way to a nearby waterfall or window shopping in a quaint downtown. Maybe it’s a mix of both, and you rotate between relaxing in a hammock and snorkeling just offshore.

Regardless of how you chill, this vacation packing list covers everything you need for a week of R&R. Though we focus on travel essentials designed for warm-weather destinations, this gear covers more than just the tropical bases. We’re talking comfy clothing, exciting travel accessories, and everything in between to help you decompress in style.

Spend time away from your hotel or Airbnb and go on a cave tour, search for seashells, or explore a museum. Then, come back for a night of enjoying warm breezes on a restaurant patio or light a beachside bonfire. Whether you’re an ultra-planner with dedicated days for each activity or a go-with-the-flow type, we’ve got you covered.

Our team has researched and tested each item on this vacation packing list. We checked for durability, breathability, packability, and just about every other -bility you can think of. We even spent the day at the beach to ensure the water essentials are up to snuff. It’s hard work, we know, but someone has to do it.

The sections are split into unisex items (productivity & tech and miscellaneous) or men’s and women’s (bags & organizers, clothing & accessories, and toiletries & personal care). However, that doesn’t mean you need to follow the binary. After all, you’ll be the one on vacation, so you should pack what’s best for you. Check out our guides , reviews , and other packing lists to explore more options and find exactly what you need.

After all, vacations are about staying stress-free, and by creating a packing and travel checklist like this one, you’ll be ready to relax at the drop of a (sun)hat. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.

Vacation Packing List Video

• Men's Focused
• Women's Focused

Standalone Bags & Organizers

In this section, we cover the bags used to carry everything on this list. We recommend choosing a pack with enough space for your creature comforts, though you can always go smaller if you want to keep it light.

Every item on this vacation packing list fits inside the main travel pack so that you can one-bag it all the way to paradise. Well, two-bag if you count the sling. So, whether you’re catching your flight, hauling entertainment to the pool, or touring the local sights, you have all the space you need for your travel essentials.

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag covers all the bases, from a supportive carry with its stowaway hip belt to gear organization with its built-in pockets. There’s a place for everything without needing a million cubes and pouches. You heard that right—a zip panel separates the main bucket storage from the rest of the bag, so you don’t even need packing cubes to keep your clothing from unraveling. Most importantly, there’s enough space for a week’s worth of travel gear, even if you don’t go ultra-minimalist. You can opt for the smaller 30-liter size if you want to pack light, but we like the 40-liter version because there’s more than enough room for everything you need, plus a little extra. You are going on vacation, after all, so you may as well make the most out of your trip. Either way, choose between Topo Designs’ notoriously fun and punchy colorways so everyone at the airport knows you’re off to somewhere fun.

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The Moment MTW Mini Fanny Sling's design is simple, effective, and so lightweight that you hardly even remember you have it on. Plus, it comes in eye-catching colorways that easily accent your daily looks. We like to wear it across the chest; however, it also works as a hip pack if that's more your style. Though it's on the smaller side, this 1-liter sling is a great dump pocket for your everyday items like a wallet, battery bank, or even a camera. There's minimal internal organization, with only a single slip pocket at the back to hold a smartphone or similarly sized item. After all, you won't need to carry much with you on a day of relaxing beyond your chill attitude and a couple of essentials.

Your travel bag is great for getting you to your destination, though it looks pretty out of place at the beach. We dig Nanobag Reusable bags for their versatility and ultra-small form-factor. They take up virtually no space until you need them. The diamond ripstop is exceptionally lightweight but can hold up to 66 pounds, so it’s more than capable of hauling your pool towel, speaker, e-reader, and a drink or two. It dries fairly quickly when wet and is super easy to clean with a quick flip inside out if you accidentally get sand inside. Though it comes in a few different styles, we like the 19-liter Crossbody Sling because it feels the most secure. You won’t have to worry about it falling off when both of your hands are full of ice cream cones.

The Bellroy Slim Sleeve’s thin profile is surprisingly spacious and feels right at home in a pants pocket. It's not exactly a minimalist wallet , as there are two quick-access sliders for things like your credit card or hotel key and a pull-tab pocket for extra cards. Though there’s no cash sleeve, it does have enough space to fit half-folded US dollars or larger tri-folded international currencies. There are over a half-dozen leather colorways, a handful of leather-free options, and a few premium leather models with a refined style if you want to go the extra mile for your everyday carry.

We appreciate wallets with thin profiles that still have plenty of storage, and the Bellroy Card Pocket delivers. There are 3 storage spaces to choose from, with enough room to hold a few cards, some cash, and even coins. We like the zippered design for its added security, though it can be a bit sticky to open. That said, it’s small enough to slip into a pocket or sling, so you’ll never be without a few dollars to buy an ice cream cone. Choose between a few chic leather colorways and embrace your vacation style.

If you’re doing your relaxation internationally, the Bellroy Travel Wallet’s low-profile slim form factor fits all your daily essentials and two passports. Size is a huge factor here, as it won’t bulk up your pockets at the airport or while exploring the local downtown. If you’re not traveling internationally, you can leave this behind.

Clothing & Accessories

It’s time to embrace your vacation personality. Whether you’re into tropical patterns or prefer to keep things simple with solid t-shirts, we’ve got something for you. In fact, everything on this vacation packing list is designed for warmer weather.

Fabrics like linen, bamboo, and cotton are in no short supply, as they’re lightweight, breathable, and—most importantly—super comfortable. However, since they’re prone to wrinkles, it’s worth perfecting your packing technique. For a detailed walk-through on how we keep our clothing crisp, check out the How We Pack It video in Pack Hacker Pro .

We’ve also chosen light, neutral colorways that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, which helps keep you cool in the hot sun. Plus, neutral colors are fairly easy to turn into a capsule wardrobe—just be sure to match tones of saturated colors like blue and brown to avoid clashing. Once you pick your color palette, add flair in the form of individual pieces that accentuate your personality. We’re talking patterned button-ups that look right at home at the cabana.

Let’s get comfy.

When traveling to a warmer place, your entire outfit should be tailored to the climate, from your hat to your underwear. The David Archy Comfy Bamboo Rayon Boxer Briefs are crafted from a soft bamboo material that’s lightweight and wicks away moisture when a leisurely walk down the boardwalk turns into a hike off the beaten path.

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While we don’t have beef with underwire per se, there’s something bralette-like about Aerie’s Superchill Wireless Lightly Lined Bra that’s hard to beat when you’re in relaxation mode. It has enough support without feeling stiff against your body, which, let’s be honest, is the worst part about a bra. It provides more coverage and support than a bralette can give, though the material is thicker and can therefore get a little warm if you’re in the tropics.

Comfort is the name of the game on this vacation packing list, and the Aerie Real Free Padded Bralette delivers whether you’re sleeping or going on an evening walk. It’s shaped like a regular bra and has enough support to keep you comfortable while you lounge. Plus, the wide straps and soft, lightweight material won’t feel heavy on your body or dig into your shoulders. We like that the cups are removable, though they’re so thin you’ll hardly even notice they’re there.

It can be hard to avoid panty lines on a regular day, so why worry about them when you’re decompressing? Aerie’s SMOOTHEZ No Show Underwear features a seamless design that won’t show through lightweight or light-colored fabrics. We’ve chosen a mix of cheeky and thong cuts to cover us for any look. Though we’ve only packed three pairs and opted to give them a quick wash between wears, these are so lightweight that you could probably bring 20 and still have room to spare.

Even on a tropical vacation, you’ll need to wear closed shoes now and then. Bombas Cushioned No Show Socks ensure that your feet stay comfortable and dry until they’re back in the sand where they belong. Their cotton construction is breathable even on the warmest days, and the low-cut design won’t show with most shoes. Though they aren’t super odor-resistant, we’ve only packed three pairs since we’ll mostly be wearing sandals. You can still get a couple of days in before they need a wash, or you can always bring extras.

The Outlier Ramielust Cut One T-Shirt is made with a fabric called ramie, which is crafted from nettles and performs similar to linen. It’s lightweight and airy to keep you cool on humid days and is a great base layer for almost any weather. Its breathability also makes it somewhat see-through, though it’s mostly only visible if the shirt color you choose contrasts with your skin tone.

Versatile clothing is important for any trip, especially when your journeys take you into climates you’re not used to. The Fair Harbor Kismet Solid Tee is a t-shirt crafted from 50% cotton and 50% polyester. The cotton is breathable, so you stay cool while the polyester wicks away moisture that might make you uncomfortable. We’ve gone with plain white because it pairs well with any pants, shorts, or bathing suit, no matter the pattern or color.

Nothing screams vacation like a patterned button-up, and the Howler Brothers Mansfield Shirt delivers. It adds a sense of flair and fun to your wardrobe as an accent piece and even has a microfiber attachment on the hem to keep your sunglasses clean. We recommend looking for a pattern with colors that complement the rest of the clothing on your vacation packing list so that you can wear it any time, anywhere.

During a long day in the sun and surf, cool breezes off the water aren’t uncommon. The Patagonia Regenerative Organic Certified Cotton Lightweight Henley (that’s a mouthful) is a casual long-sleeved shirt that will keep you warm in the evening and looks at home just about anywhere. Though we like the casual look of the buttons, they can show through if layered with a lightweight sweatshirt. However, the breathable materials make it a great addition to any warm-weather loadout.

Even on the most laid-back trip, it’s important to have a piece that doesn’t look out of place at a fancier affair. The Everlane Linen Standard Fit Shirt is a breathable long-sleeved top that looks just as comfortable poolside as it does at a classy restaurant. Just be sure to pack it properly, as linen is prone to wrinkles and may still require some steaming or ironing once you get to your destination.

The transition from a hot beach to an air-conditioned restaurant can be a bit jarring. The Free Fly Bamboo Slub Hoodie is lightweight enough to be carried in your bag all day and acts as a comfortable layer when you need some extra warmth. The breathable material makes it a great option for varying temperatures, whether on the airplane or at the poolside bar; however, it is prone to wrinkling, so be sure to roll it up nicely.

The Outlier New Way Five-Fives look like your favorite pair of chinos but are crafted from a stretchy material that gives them a performance edge in warmer climates. They have an internal drawstring, so you won’t need a belt, and they can even be worn as swim shorts if your bathing suit hasn’t dried yet.

Sometimes you need durability in addition to comfort. The Patagonia Men’s Stand Up Shorts are tough enough to handle a day excursion hiking up a mountain as much as a relaxing afternoon under a cabana. The double-fabric seat and large back pockets are great if you want to go hands-free on your adventure. They’re not the most packable due to the thick organic cotton material, but we dig the loose, casual look.

The Cozy Earth Men's Ultra-Soft Bamboo Shorts are comfortable enough to sleep in but don’t look out of place at the breakfast buffet or on a late-night walk before going to bed. They’re crafted from super-soft materials, so comfort is top dog no matter where you wear them. Plus, the bamboo helps wick away moisture during sleep—feel free to open those windows and enjoy the warm breeze.

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One of the most essential pieces of gear for a vacation packing list is a bathing suit. The Wellen Lined Swim Trunks pair vintage styling with subtle (yet fun) pattern options. The quick-dry poly blend and extra pockets make this a great beach or pool companion all trip long. We find the suit to be a perfect balance between loose and tight-fitting, ensuring that comfort is king.

The Madewell Athletic Slim Chino Pants have a relaxed fit and feature stretchy and breathable materials for a casual look on warm days. It’s made with COOLMAX, a cotton and polyester blend that’s lightweight and woven for better airflow. The loose fit looks good just about anywhere you might end up on vacation, so these are great as everyday pants.

The lululemon ABC Pant looks like your favorite pair of chinos, though its breathability and stretch are a step ahead of the game. It’s great for hot and humid days, wicking away moisture and stretching with your body as you drink one-too-many daiquiris. Plus, there are over a dozen colorways, so you can find something to wear for all occasions.

Whether you’re going to the arctic or the everglades, your pants need support. The Arcade Atlas Belt is a Pack Hacker favorite and slides perfectly into a vacation pack out. The material is stretchy, not restrictive, so you’ll be comfortable whether you’re exploring local towns or sitting on a patio all night. Plus, it has a TSA-safe buckle, so you don’t need to worry about taking it off at the airport security checkpoint.

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These Cotton-Linen High-Rise Pants from Madewell are a happy medium of comfort and style. The material is lightweight and keeps you cool on warm days, and there’s a fair amount of stretch both in the legs and the waistband. We’re big fans of the relaxed fit—it’s almost like wearing more stylish sweatpants. Plus, the neutral colorways are easy to pair with just about any top.

Though they’re called joggers, we all know these comfy pants are just as happy lounging on a patio set. The elastic waistband adds comfort for sleeping while the included drawstring stays out of your way unless you want some additional cinching at the waist for a more stylish look. Plus, the FlashDry-XD material is stretchy, breathable, and dries quickly if you find yourself caught in a surprise rainstorm. Not that it ever rains when you’re on vacation, obviously.

The best leggings feel like a second skin, and the Pack Out Tights from Patagonia are comfortable, stretchy, and soft enough to do just that. They feature two side pockets for holding your phone while you run to the breakfast bar for another waffle and a zippered pocket large enough to hold your ID or credit card if you venture off in search of a specialty morning coffee.

Versatility in your clothing is key, and the Athleta Brooklyn Short’s simple design and soft material are great whether you’re poolside lounging or taking a short hike to a nearby waterfall. Plus, they even work as pajamas—yes, they’re that comfortable. Other features like the ribbed waistband, quick-drying fabric, and UPF 50+ protection make these shorts great for travel.

Some days are so hot that even shorts aren’t enough to keep you cool. On those days (and any other day, if we’re honest), we reach for the Abercrombie & Fitch Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts. With 55% linen and 45% Viscose—a type of rayon that’s breathable, soft, and absorbs moisture—you’re set for both extra-sunny days and breezy nights. They come in a range of colors from neutral to neon and patterns from floral to plaid, so you can wear them as a staple solid or opt for a design to add flair like us.

Even if you won’t be doing any yoga on your vacation, the lululemon Align Tank Top’s soft, stretchy material makes days of walking around town more comfortable. Its cropped, fitted style looks great on its own, though it also works well as a base layer on a chilly day under a long sleeve shirt or button-up. It even comes in a few bold colorways, though we kept it neutral for easier pairing. We like the built-in bra, and the cups are removable if you prefer to go without.

Patagonia’s Trail Harbor Tank Top’s simple design and blend of hemp and cotton is the perfect combination to wear with…well…anything. The materials keep you cool as temperatures rise throughout the day while the scoop neck, wide shoulder straps, and hip-length design is easy to tuck in or leave out depending on the waistline of your pants.

When we say the Cozy Earth Stretch-Knit Bamboo Lounge Tee is soft, we mean it. Though we like to wear it to bed or while lounging around because of its breathable, moisture-wicking bamboo material and flowy look, it doesn’t look out of place tucked into a nice pair of pants for a night out. And, if you happen to find yourself with a gnarly sunburn on your chest, shoulders, and/or back, it’s soft enough to be comfortable on your sensitive skin. Not that it ever happened to us, of course.

What do we want? Flowy tops! When do we want them? Pretty much always, but especially on vacation! The Cates T-Shirt from lululemon is made with 94% Pima Cotton for breathability and 6% Lycra elastane for stretch and to help keep its boxy shape. This top is great for lazy mornings and pairs well with high-rise pants or shorts but is long enough to go with low-rise, too.

Not only does The Linen Workwear Shirt from Everlane keep you cool, it has a casual look that can be dressed up or down depending on where the day takes you. Tuck it in for a more dialed-in dinner style or leave it unbuttoned and layer it over a tank top to keep your shoulders protected on a sunny day. However, because it’s made with 100% linen, it wrinkles pretty easily and may require some TLC once you arrive at your destination.

The Scoop Swim Top from Cuup has an innovative underwire that’s flexible enough to bend, meaning you get extra support in your swimsuit without losing packability. Plus, the ECONYL nylon resists fading in chlorine and salt water or after contact with sunscreens and oils. The lack of padding may not be for everyone, though the ability to granularly adjust the fit and inclusive cup sizes are great for practically any body type.

If you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the water, the ECONYL nylon fabric of Cuup’s Highwaist Swim Bottom is a must. It resists fading whether you’re heading to the beach or the pool, and it even fights against sunscreen and oils. Its thin, too, so it packs down small like a pair of underwear in your bag. We like the cheeky high waisted cut because of its unique fit, though they also have bikini, brief, and a fuller coverage high waist options available at the time of publishing.

Whether you’re wearing it to dinner or as a bathing suit cover-up, the Athleta Newport Wrap Dress has a flowy fit that’s comfortable enough to wear all day long. The material is lightweight, stretchy, and thin without being see-through. Plus, it wicks away moisture and easily fights wrinkles. We also like that it has cap sleeves for a little added shoulder protection.

The Abercrombie & Fitch Halter Linen-Blend Mini Dress is a saucy little number that looks good whether you’re on a boardwalk patio for lunch or jumping between local nightlife hangs. The light color keeps you cool while the linen and Viscose blend of fabric adds breathability and stretch. This means that you’ll not only feel better in warm temps, but you’ll also be comfortable as this slim-fit dress moves with your body. Just be sure to hang it up when you get to your accommodations, as the fabric is prone to wrinkles.

This Bamboo Lightweight Long Sleeve from Free Fly is made with—you guessed it—lightweight bamboo material. What does that mean? You won’t be left overheating if you decide to throw it on before the sun fully sets, and you’ll even get the added benefit of UPF 40+ protection. We like this top for lounging around at night or on breezy mornings, though its soft colorways are great for any time of day.

The Organic Cotton Dreamsoft Travel Scarf from Zestt is a scarf, shawl, and blanket all in one—a triple threat. The soft cotton adds just enough warmth when you need it. Drape it over your shoulders on an evening walk around the city or when it gets breezy. We went with a solid color so it’s easier to match, though there are also color-blocked designs if you want to add some variety.

With sunny days ahead, you’ll need a set of sunglasses to see the ball in an intense beach volleyball game. The Sunski Avila sunglasses are lightweight enough to keep on your person at all times, and they don’t feel heavy on your face after a day in the sun. Plus, they provide polarization and protection from UVA, UVB, and UV400 wavelengths. There are tons of styles and colors to choose from, so you can show off your personality all day, every day.

A sunglasses case will ensure nothing breaks in transit, whether between the hotel and the beach or your home and the airport. Though we don’t have a specific recommendation, we prefer a hard case to ensure they don’t get crushed in our bag. However, keep in mind that they’re often bulkier than a soft case.

A hat is a vacation must to keep the sun out of your eyes and prevent sunburn. The Melin Hydro Hat has the feel of a regular hat but is made with materials that float in water. This means you won't lose it to the deep end if you get thrown in the pool by your travel buddies. After a long day of sun and surf, take it into the shower, give it a quick wash with shampoo, and hook it to the outside of your pack to dry using a carabiner.

What’s a vacation packing list without shoes that feel at home on sand, water, and the trail? This list’s answer is the Tropicfeel Monsoon, a lightweight sneaker that can be put on quickly for a day exploring town, short hikes, and even a dip into the water. It isn’t the most packable shoe we’ve seen, but we dig the fact that it dries quickly and has a drainage hole in the sole for water to dissipate. Who doesn’t want to slide their toes into a waterfall now and then?

The Birkenstock Arizona Essential EVA packs the ruggedness you expect from Birkenstock into a lightweight, waterproof shoe that’s perfect for walks along the beach. After a day in the sand, they clean easily with any water source or the brush of a hand. Plus, they come in tons of bold colorways, so you can make a statement or keep it neutral like us.

Nothing says vacation like a wide brim hat. However, that doesn’t mean they’re the easiest to pack. Thankfully, this FURTALK Beach Hat is flexible enough to pack down into your bag and bounce back after a few hours of travel. Or, hang it on the outside of your bag if you bring along a hat clip. The fit is adjustable via a hook-and-loop closure on the inside head band. Plus, it comes in plenty of shades and ribbon colors, so you can choose the palette that best suits your vacation packing list.

Wide brim hats may scream beach, but they also scream, “Wait, how do I carry this without wearing it?” Instead of shoving your hat into your travel bag and risk impacting its shape, hang it from the outside using the Klipsta. It uses powerful magnets to secure on either side of a brim, meaning you don’t need to worry about poking holes in your hat just to hang it. Though your hat can still slip through if you swing your bag around hard enough, we haven’t had any issues making it through the airport, TSA, or in and out of an overhead bin with the hat attached. You may just need to adjust the hold every now and then.

We’ve opted for a satin scrunchie from Kitsch to keep our hair up. The material dries quicker than a jersey or cotton commonly found in other hair ties, so you can get in and out of the water without hanging on to a wet scrunchie for the rest of the day. Similarly, satin (and scrunchies in general) are less harsh on hair, so they’re great for sleep. We went with black, but there are fun patterns and lighter colors to choose from, too.

We kicked it up a notch on this classic Vans shoe and went with the Old Skool Platform. Its chunky midsole has a trendy look without being so bulky that they’re hard to pack. Plus, the flat bottoms easily slot together in your travel bag; however, we prefer to wear these in transit. Though they’re not the most breathable shoe we’ve worn, we still find them comfortable enough to walk around in all day, even in the heat. We like the white because they have a sleek, trendy look that pairs well with the wide range of colors on the list, though there are plenty of fun colors available.

Embrace the urge to dip your feet in the water without taking off your sandals every time. The Reef Water Vista sandals have TPU straps that won’t hold on to moisture, so you’ll dry off quickly. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and feature a hook-and-loop adjuster to dial in your fit. Plus, the simple style is easy to pair with any outfit on this vacation packing list and will look nice on just about any occasion. However, keep in mind that the adjuster can take a while to dry, unlike the shoes themselves.

The Peak Design Shoe Pouch ensures that sand doesn’t make its way into your travel pack and has enough room for two pairs of shoes. This enables you to go off the beaten path without worrying about how to get a pair of dirty shoes home. Plus, it packs into itself, so you can leave it in your daily bag in case you decide to walk back to your beachside accommodations barefoot but don’t want to carry your shoes the whole way.

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Productivity & Tech

This is great time to relax and unwind, and everything on your vacation packing list should help get you there. Maybe you like to watch movies before bed or wake up and read a few pages of your local newspaper. No matter how you unwind and unplug, we’ve got you covered.

Though we’ve kept tech to a minimum on this list, there’s still plenty to keep you connected to your life back home. As long as you come out on the other side refreshed, we’re happy.

The Topo Designs Accessory Bags are great for keeping like items together, whether you’re using it as a pouch for your daily essentials or to keep your camera and its accessories packed into one convenient place. They come in fun colors that feel at home in a tropical destination and are surprisingly spacious given their flat, simple design.

With a tiny pouch like the Topo Designs Square Bag, you can organize your small gear and keep it close at hand. This little dump pocket is a perfect spot for headphones, chapstick, a small deck of cards, or anything else you want access to during a flight or throughout your day. It even comes with an attached carabiner to hook it to your travel bag or belt loop. You’ll project major dad vibes in the best way.

Sometimes it’s nice to decompress after a long day in the sun. Instead of a laptop, bring along an iPad Air to watch your favorite TV show or movie, chat with friends and family members back home, or play a few brain puzzles to tire your engine out. The M1 chip and enhanced graphics are a step ahead of the iPad’s previous generations, so you’ve got a lot of power in a tiny package. However, we recommend disconnecting your work email for the week—you've earned it!

The TiMOVO Case for iPad Air pairs protection with a ton of bright colorways, making it perfect for a fun vacation. It has a low-profile design that fits into most device pockets. Plus, the front cover folds into a built-in stand so you can watch videos and play games hands-free on the plane or while you decompress before bed. Though the case isn’t sand-proof, its tight fit reduces the number of particles that get inside.

When vacationing with friends, it’s fun to get your memories off your phone and onto something more tangible to share, but you might not want to carry around an extra camera just in case you take that perfect shot. Instead, we’re packing the instax mini Link 2 and printing our favorites when we return to the hotel or Airbnb. It prints up to 100 small photos on instax film and can act as a remote for your smartphone so you can take the perfect group selfie. We like to bring two film packs with us, one loaded in the printer and one extra. The film is pretty easy to find, so if you run out, just stop at a local drug or big box store to grab more.

We’ve opted for the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition for its IPX8 rating and glare-free screen that auto-adjusts to your surrounding light. You don’t have to worry about surprise splashes while sitting poolside or fighting for a cabana to avoid the afternoon sun. Plus, the upgraded 32-gigabyte storage ensures you have plenty of room to download another beach read.

We like to wear an Apple Watch because it allows us to put our phone away for the day and still keep an eye on our notifications. That way, we can determine what can be ignored for a little while longer—this is a vacation, after all. Plus, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as blowing your step goals out of the water while you’re exploring a new city.

Though phones are becoming more durable and waterproof, the GoPro Hero10 is a perfect supplement to your smartphone camera when the journey becomes aquatic. It’s waterproof up to 33 feet, shoots 5.3K video, and fits into the palm of your hand. What else could you ask for?

The Handler Floating Hand Grip is a GoPro accessory that makes it easy to take selfies, point the camera at underwater life, and get action shots playing in the ocean–all while protecting your GoPro from sinking if you accidentally drop it.

What’s a vacation without some killer tunes? The Altec Lansing Mini H20 offers an IP67 waterproof rating, meaning it can withstand submersion up to a meter of water for 30 minutes, and resists dust and dirt, as well. This Bluetooth speaker has great sound quality for something this small, and you can attach it to any bag with a carabiner, making it the perfect companion for the pool or beach.

The Anker 735 has three available ports for charging every device on the full vacation packing list. It has a skinny form factor and flip-in prongs, which packs away nicely. With a maximum capacity of 65 watts, it quickly gets you the juice you need. Top up more of your entertainment at once, whether you prefer to do it overnight or while getting ready for the day.

Bringing universal cables is an easy way to save space in your bag when you only have a few devices on hand. The Rolling Square inCharge XL looks the same as your typical cable but has swappable adapters, so you can charge up to six different ways. Bring the 1’ version for your battery bank and leave the 6.5’ version back at your accommodations in a hard-to-reach outlet. The included case is a little bulky, so we opted to ditch it and keep it in our tech pouch instead.

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The iFory Watch Charger is about as minimalist as it gets. It acts as a base to charge your Apple Watch, but instead of an attached cable, you can plug in your own USB-C cord. We love its small size and sturdy feel that takes up practically no space in a tech pouch. The less cords you have to manage, the better.

You never know when your phone will pop onto low-power mode just as you need to make a dinner reservation or get back to the hotel. The Clutch Charger Pro is the size and shape of a credit card and just a bit thicker, with a 5,000 mAh capacity that’s enough to help you make it through even a usage-heavy day. The charging cord is attached to the card, and it has MagSafe to stick to your phone, so it’s easy to hold and use even as you get more juice without being tethered to a bulky battery bank in your bag. You will need a separate cord to give the Pro more power for the next day, but you can leave that at your accommodations and top it up overnight.

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Whether you typically bring a full DSLR set-up or simply enjoy capturing casual memories, the iPhone 13 Pro has you covered. While the standard lens is great for most shots, the second two lenses are ideal for group photos and detailed shots of native flowers. Plus, 12 megapixel photos are more than adequate for sharing on social media. If Android phones are your cup of tea, look for one with multiple lenses to ensure you can get the perfect shot!

When you want to keep your carry as minimal as possible, reach for the Jimmycase Wallet. It protects your phone and features a stretchy elastic pocket that can hold up to six cards. Store your ID when you head to the nearest patio for a drink or bring extra cash to buy a lemonade on the pier. Plus, there are a ton of fun patterns and colors to choose from.

Protect your phone, charging cables, and power bank from sand and surf with the Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Travel Pouch. Its IP67 waterproof design acts as a barrier between your tech and sand or spilled margaritas. In the meantime, use it as a tech pouch within your travel bag to stay organized. Plus, you can even attach a strap or weave paracord through the side loops to create a makeshift sling and go hands-free.

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Whether you’re looking for some peace at the airport or a cabana overrun by Spring Breakers, Apple Airpods Pro have noise-canceling technology that allows you to find your beach no matter where you are. Plus, they fit into the palm of your hand, your pocket, or your sling with ease.

If you’re traveling internationally, it’s essential to be prepared to charge your phone, tablet, or eReader once you arrive. The Kikkerland Travel Adapter has you covered in more than 150 countries so that you can juice up your devices around the globe. It’s important to note that the Kikkerland adapts the outlet—it doesn’t convert power—so be sure to double-check the specifications of the country you’ll be traveling to. If you’re staying local, you can leave this adapter behind.

You never know where you’ll find inspiration worth jotting down. The Pokka Pens Classic Pen is lightweight enough to fit just about anywhere and has a ton of colorways to match the mood of wherever you’re heading. Though it’s not the most premium pen we’ve tested, it’s a great option for writing in your journal while enjoying the sound of crashing waves.

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Remember when …. ? The Letterfolk Trip Passport is the perfect place to jot down thoughts and memories of your vacation as you make them so you don’t forget before you get home or lose track of why you loved a certain spot the moment it leaves your newsfeed. It’s easy to slide into your backpack since it's about the size of a passport and includes pages to note who you were with, what you ate, and how you felt, and more freeform dot grid pages to record your favorite memories in word or picture form.

Toiletries & Personal Care

Looking to check out that five-star restaurant everyone’s been raving about? What about when it’s time to spend the day sun-bathing as you nurse a cold drink? No matter where you’re headed, you’ll need your toiletries to get ready for it.

Before you start adding everything and the kitchen sink to your vacation packing list, first check with your accommodations. Most will provide things like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Some even go so far as to provide makeup wipes (if you need them)! By checking what’s available first, you’ll save space in your bag for other (more fun) things—we’re looking at you, Miscellaneous section.

The Aer Travel Kit 2’s ability to organize bulky and tiny toiletries alike makes it a great pick if you have more to carry. The deep bucket shape secures larger bottles of lotion in place while the zippered pockets keeps your tweezers and makeup brushes from getting lost in the shuffle. Plus, there’s even a built-in hook for hanging, so you can give yourself a little extra counter space while you’re getting ready for the day.

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The Gillette Venus Intimate Grooming Razor has a super flexible head that makes it easy to touch up a hard-to-reach bikini line. There’s a built-in bar that reduces the amount of contact it makes with your skin, which means there’s less of a chance for irritation. Plus, there’s even a precision trimmer on the back of the blades to really clean things up.

You can’t always plan a vacation around your cycle, but that doesn’t mean you need to pack a bunch of sanitary items just in case. We like the MeLuna Menstrual Cup for its convenience if your cycle starts early or runs late. They have sizes and shapes to accommodate just about anyone, so you can find a fit that feels right.

After a long day of body-surfing in the waves, your hair will need a bit of detangling. The Michel Mercier Travel Hair Brush is compact and features a cap that protects the bristles when you toss it in your sling or beach bag. Though it works great for getting knots out, the bristles are pretty hard on the end, so take care in how you brush if you have a sensitive or sunburnt scalp.

The lightweight coverage of Fenty Beauty’s Eaze Drop feels breathable in warm weather and adds just enough coverage to lightly even out pigmentation. You’re on vacation, after all—looking great with minimal effort is the name of the game. Plus, it comes in tons of skin tones, so there’s something for everyone.

Even on vacation, it’s nice to put a little makeup on. What’s not-so-nice is getting to the beach only to realize that you’re at risk of raccoon eyes if you go underwater. The Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara from Too Faced comes in a travel size container and stays on even when you decide to show off your best swan-dive at the pool.

With the Milani All-Inclusive Eye, Cheek & Face Palette, you have everything you need to get ready for a day in or night out. Go glittery with your eyeshadow or keep it basic with a little blush. There’s even a bit of highlighter and bronzer when it’s time to contour. Though you can’t choose the individual shades, there are a few different palette combinations to match your makeup style and preference.

Whether you want to wear makeup every day or just on special occasions, the Daily Essentials Total Face Kit from EcoTools gives you more options with less bulk. Use the large handle for the blush and buffer brushes and the small handle for the crease, concealer, and spoolie heads. Swap between them as needed and go through your routine with ease. Plus, you can add more interchangeable heads, as each type is compatible with either the small or large handle.

It’s nice to go to bed with a fresh face. At the end of the day, the Clean 10 Cleansing Balm from JUNO & Co. makes quick work of taking off dirt, SPF buildup, and yes, even waterproof mascara. A little bit goes a long way! Rub it between your fingers to create an oil, massage it into your skin, and wash your face just like you usually would. If you’re feeling adventurous, double-cleanse and follow up with a regular face wash. Your skin will thank you.

We like to keep things simple while on vacation, even with our toiletries. The Bellroy Dopp Kit has basic organization for carrying just what you need and nothing more. It has a flexible structure that’s easy to pack full of travel bottles, and it even has a dedicated shelf for your toothbrush. Bring it along to the beach or leave it on the bathroom counter until you’re getting ready for bed. Either way, it’s easy to find exactly what you need.

If you expect to be in and out of the water throughout the day, having a comb on hand is a great way to ensure that your hair always looks dapper. The Chicago Comb Co. Model No. 2 Carbon Fiber is ultra-lightweight, fits into your pocket and is durable enough to take the bumps and knocks of travel.

In addition to the Braun Electric Razor’s sleek design, it operates relatively silently with two double-A batteries. We like the twist cap that acts as both a protective cover in transit and a longer handle when it’s in use. Plus, it won’t turn on while the cover is closed, so the rest of your toiletries are safe. We’re sticking with easy beard maintenance on this vacation packing list, though you can bring a razor if you want a closer shave.

You might think your daily deodorant is perfect for a beach vacation, though standard roll-on deodorants are at risk of melting in hot weather or getting flagged at TSA. The Vasarii nakd. Thai Crystal Deodorant Stone comes in a sturdy, travel-size case and won’t melt in the sun, so you won’t have any issues with airport security. Get it wet before applying for the best results.

We make space for the clear Gravel Pouch in our Dopp kit just in case TSA officers ask to inspect our travel-size liquids. Its weather-resistant zipper keeps gels, creams, and liquids inside in case your bottle springs a leak, and the adjustable silicone handle makes it easy to pull out for inspection or hang in the bathroom shower once you reach your destination. Bundle it with Gravel’s Soft 3oz Liquid Bottles to bring all the goos you need to survive your next trip.

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While you can fill that pouch with travel-sized toiletries you buy at the store, we prefer to pack our favorite brands in reusable bottles like these stackable, durable options from Gravel. The silicone bottles fit together neatly in pairs, and the plastic caps have a rotating label ring around the neck so you know what’s inside. They come in a pack of two, so we’re filling four bottles with sunscreen, face wash, aloe for soothing skin after long days in the sun, and toothpaste for, you know, your teeth. If you’re careful to lather up with enough SPF to avoid a burn, you can swap out the aloe and bring body lotion instead. No matter what you pack, the thin, compact design of these bottles is ideal for your liquid essentials.

Here at Pack Hacker, we like to keep everything organized, including our medications. The humangear GoTubb is small, lightweight, and has enough room to stow medication for your trip. We like to keep ibuprofen here just in case we need it, and you can even leave the pills in there when you return home until your next trip.

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A vacation packing list calls for sun, surf, and sugary snacks. The Philips One Battery Toothbrush by Sonicare meets our travel toothbrush size expectations and has the vibrations we’re used to from our regular model at home. Nobody likes messing up their daily hygiene routines, and staying ahead of your brushing can save you a toothache later.

Walking barefoot on the beach is one of the best feelings in the world; however, the occasional splinter is possible while traveling along the boardwalk. The Tweezerman Slant Tweezer has a minimal design that works well at removing everything from wood pieces to errant eyebrow hairs.

Nobody likes a hangnail, especially on vacation! The Victorinox Swiss Army Nail Clippers are a super packable set of clippers that ensure you won’t ever have to wait to get rid of a pesky hangnail again. Plus, they're TSA-friendly.

Though most hotels and Airbnbs provide beach towels, it’s always good to have a spare for spontaneous trips to the water. With over a dozen designs to choose from, the Nomadix Ultralight Towel adds flair to your relaxation without taking up too much space in your beach bag. It’s made with MicroSuede, which is a type of microfiber designed to absorb water and dry quickly. The included carrying case is a little large, so we prefer to roll it up and stow it in our pack on its own.

We always keep a tube of lip balm with us, especially on a beach vacation, to ensure our lips don’t get chapped due to humidity changes, sun exposure, and salt water. We recommend choosing a version that includes SPF protection. That way, you have an extra layer of safety from the sun’s rays.

Whether you need to contain something inside or outside the bag, a Ziploc bag does the trick. We’re bringing a quart size to get our liquids through TSA and a gallon size just in case we go for one last dip before our flight and need to lug home a wet bathing suit. We like to use a VELCRO cable tie to keep them rolled up and stowed in our toiletry bag or travel pack.

Miscellaneous

The items in this section are here to amp things up. We’re talking games, relaxation enhancers, and travel essentials that will make your life easier.

Though some of these aren’t necessities, they’ll help you get the most out of your vacation. Sometimes day 4 of sitting on the beach can get a little old, and this gear will ensure you’re having a good time as you relax.

On days when you want to go straight from the beach to dinner, store your wet bathing suit in Matador’s Droplet Water-Resistant Stuff Sack so it’s separate from the rest of your dry gear. It has 2.5 liters of storage space when expanded and packs down into a silicone container small enough to fit on your key ring. However, it’s not waterproof, so moisture can still seep out of the top cinch closure. It’s important to keep it upright when possible.

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Card games are a great way to pass the time, whether you’re waiting for a storm to pass or just looking for a way to spend a few hours without screen time. Though they’re only slightly smaller than a regular deck of cards, every inch counts when you’re traveling with one bag. They’re durable enough to be used anywhere, though be gentle with the case, as it’s similar to a standard deck of cards and can be easily crushed.

Simply put, the Waboba’s name is a shortened version of what it is: a WAter BOuncing BAll. It fits into the palm of your hand and skips across water with ease, offering endless opportunities for fun at the beach or pool. The gel core doesn’t get saturated with water, so you can play with it for hours. However, it can skip a long way, so be careful how hard you throw it!

A hammock is a perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring a new destination. The Kammok Roo Single UL Camping Hammock makes that possible without adding weight to your pack. It weighs less than 6 ounces and packs into itself, so it’s easy to stow away until you need it. However, it takes a few tries to get used to the repacking process, so practice makes perfect.

An ultralight hammock is nothing without a set of ultralight hammock straps to pair with it. The Kammok Python 10 UL Hammock straps compress easily and slot nicely into your pack. Despite their small size, they can hold up to 300 pounds. They come with an included carrying case, though rolling the straps to fit inside can take some getting used to.

One of the best things about a tropical vacation is enjoying the sunset from the beach, though sand can deter you from sitting on the ground in your dinner clothes. The Matador Pocket Blanket 3.0 fits in your pocket for easy storage and has enough coverage for up to three people to sit. However, we’ve found it’s best suited for two. Plus, with the included stakes on each corner, you won’t have to worry about it blowing away.

Though the Purist Collective Mover looks like your everyday insulated water bottle, its unique design gives it an edge. On the inside is a thin layer of glass that protects your drink from developing that metallic-y taste you sometimes get when it’s left in a stainless steel bottle too long. This means that your ice-cold lemonade will stay fresh even if it takes you a few hours to finish it. We also like the sleek matte exterior, though it can scuff.

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Tropical climates usually mean sun and surf, but it’s worth being prepared for inclement weather. We chose the DAVEK MINI umbrella for its compact size and lightweight construction. It’s so small that you won’t regret lugging it around town even if you don’t end up needing it. Plus, it comes in a ton of bold colorways, so there’s something for everyone.

The Loop Quiet Noise Reduction Earplugs help you enjoy a few hours of peace and quiet after a night on the town. They dampen outside noises so you can easily get a few more hours of shut-eye. Choose between four different silicone ear tip sizes to find the right fit for you. Plus, they come with a small carrying case, so you’ll always know where they are when you need them.

The Orbitkey Key Organiser is a minimalist key ring that holds a handful of the keys you need, like your house key for your place back home or the Airbnb you're staying at for the week. Leave it inside your travel pack or throw it in your pocket when you head out for the day.

Carabiners are always useful, but Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock takes function to a new level. It’s separated into two sections, so you can secure small items like your keys on one side and attach them to your everyday bag with the other. Plus, it has a built-in lock so you won’t lose your keys if something bumps into the gate the wrong way.

Whether you plan to take a few day-long excursions or don’t plan to leave the pool for more than an hour, it’s always best to be prepared with first aid. We like to purchase a standard premade kit and empty the contents into a small, thin pouch that’s easier to store. That way, we can look cool while we tend to a blister from walking around town all day!

Eating a frozen snack from a cart vendor is a great way to cool off; however, it can be a little tricky if your hands are covered in sand. Hand wipes are the perfect way to clean up before eating to ensure no sand or saltwater makes its way into your mouth. We like disinfectant wipes both for our hands and sanitizing public bathrooms or changing surfaces before using them.

See How We Pack It

Time to Chill!

So, there you have it! A vacation packing list designed to help you relax in style and, most importantly, comfort. If you’re curious about how to pack for more than just your vacation, check out our other packing lists and guides to help you get started. We cover everything you need, from traveling as a digital nomad to choosing the best travel backpack.

Whether you’re hitting up international beaches or staying within your home country’s borders, we hope this vacation packing list takes the stress out of packing so you can relax before your trip even starts.

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The Five Foot Traveler

Reaching new heights, 137 travel essentials: a comprehensive packing list.

by Sarah Gallo | Aug 15, 2019 | Resources | 2 comments

You’ve decided that you wanted to travel somewhere new, so you booked a flight, secured your hotels, and told all of your friends. You eagerly search Instagram for the must-see spots and, before you know it, you leave in a few weeks! Now, I never recommend saving packing for the last minute, but it’s silly to start gathering your travel essentials few months out too. 

This article is meant to serve as a guideline for the most efficient ways to go about packing your travel essentials. Coming from someone who has visited over 100 countries, it’s safe to say that I’ve done enough trial and error for all of you! In this article you will find the most useful carry on essentials, packing and clothing essentials, outdoor essentials, fitness “on the go” essentials, reading essentials, and business management essentials.

Chimp trekking in Uganda with travel essentials on hand

Now, here’s the thing: this list of travel essentials covers just about everything, so try not to get overwhelmed. No matter your age, no matter your type of travel, this comprehensive list should be used as a guideline to decide what you need to pack depending on your trip. For instance, you certainly won’t pack the same things for a luxury cruise through the Caribbean , an RV trip through New Zealand , or a road trip through South Africa . Of course, it should go without saying, but if you’re going to places like Antarctica or the Arctic, you will certainly need to include gear for extremities, and a packing list is almost always provided. 

Please note: This page contains affiliate links, meaning that The Five Foot Traveler may receive a small commission when you purchase any travel essentials using the links in this article at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your continued support!

I personally use and own everything that I recommend below. 

Before you begin packing, please make sure you go through this checklist of absolute, no questions asked travel essentials:

• Is your Passport valid for six months after you depart your destination and for the duration of your trip?
• Have you checked to see if you have all of the necessary visas for where you’re visiting?
• Have you purchased a comprehensive travel insurance plan ?

Hopefully you’ve answered YES to the above questions, so let’s dive in. First thing’s first, I always recommend having a staging area for your travel essentials well before you pack. For me, it’s the loveseat in my bedroom, but anywhere will do (although I do suggest keeping it out of reach from messy children or pets). Here, you can organize the travel goodies you’ve purchased and start organizing your piles of clothes and toiletries. I find this useful because I usually want to use the things I need to pack, so I’m not a big fan of throwing everything into a suitcase two weeks prior to departure.

And speaking of suitcases, decide early on the way you’d like to travel. Are you going on a luxury European vacation? Trekking through the Himalayas? Relaxing on a beach somewhere? Your luggage should reflect your style of travel. Since I started this travel journey as a backpacker, I initially checked a 55L backpack and used a hiking backpack as my carry on.

When I first started backpacking these were my travel essentials

Then I started traveling carry on only, where I used a spinner carry on and a hiking backpack as my personal item. Then, finally, when I transitioned into luxury travel and *gasp* needed to pack heels and a variety of dresses, I started checking a 24” spinner and bringing with me a carry on spinner on the plane and a cross body bag as my personal item for under the seat in front of me.

I've cleaned up a bit over the years though, don't worry!

I’ve loved every backpack, bag, and suitcase that I’ve owned and highly recommend picking and choosing between the following:

Airplane Personal Item

• Cross-Body Bag:  If you want to look a little more put together, but want easy access to all of your carry on travel essentials, a cross-body bag is a must. If you like to travel with your laptop, make sure you purchase one that has a laptop sleeve too. Of course, it should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you but roomy enough that you won’t have to dig around in it to find what you want. My Recommendation – Vera Bradley Lighten Up Weekender Travel Bag . This is honestly an absolute must for me, and I bring it everywhere I go.
• Backpack: Your backpack should be both supportive and spacious. I love that this also can substitute as a hiking day pack. Everything that I pack in my cross-body bag will also fit in my 24L backpack, so it just comes down to personal preference. My Recommendation –  Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. These both have incredible structure and hip support.

Airplane Carry On Item

• A Spinner Carry On Suitcase: If you’re questioning whether you should get a suitcase with two wheels or four wheels, always choose the four-wheel spinner. It will make your life easier as you both navigate crowds within the airport and on the busy streets of your destination. Trust me on this, as I converted from a two-wheeler to a four-wheeler and it made a huge difference in the way that I travel. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 21” Hardside Spinner. Hardside here is key. It helps you not to overpack, and it is also more durable for your travels. This is one of the most lightweight hardside carry on suitcases that you’ll find on the market, and it has a built-in TSA-approved lock as well as a limited lifetime warranty.
• If you’re not carrying on a suitcase, you may be able to carry on both recommended personal items – depending on the airline, size, and weight.

Airplane Checked Item

• Spinner Checked Suitcase: Again, I highly recommend a spinner four-wheel suitcase over a two-wheel suitcase for the purpose of ease. Personally, I like when my carry on spinner and checked spinner match, which led me back to TravelPro. I like the way that the inside is organized, and it’s helpful that each of their hardside spinners come with a built-in TSA-approved lock. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 25” Spinner and TravelPro Maxlite 5 29” Spinner. Depending on the type of trip you’re taking (and how many shoes haha), you’ll need to decide which size checked luggage works for you. I find it useful to have a 25” and 29” on hand, but 99% of the time I will choose just to bring the 25” Spinner, as I’ve found that’s more than enough for me. If you’d like to purchase the 21”, 25”, and 29” as a set – which is the best bang for your buck – you can do so here.
• Trekkers Pack: Now, if you’re moving around a lot, camping, trekking, and staying in refugios, then a trekkers pack will certainly be the better option for you. When I first started traveling I used a trekkers pack, and it definitely has its benefits for the active among us! When researching which pack to get, make sure that it’s easily opened from multiple points on the bag, that it has plenty of pockets for your smaller items, and provides you with plenty of support. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . I tried on what felt like hundreds of trekkers packs before realizing that these were, hands down, the ideal pack that I was looking for. I have carried quite a bit of weight in mine, and it was always comfortable on the hips and shoulders. Plus, Osprey has an “all mighty guarantee” where they will repair any damage free of charge and, if they can’t fix it, they will replace it at no cost to you. Incredibly, this applies to all of their products, no matter the purchase date. You can read more about it here , if interested. 
• Rolling Duffle: At the end of the day, some people just love duffle bags (my grandpa is one of them!). They’re a great combination of a duffle bag and rolling suitcase, and you have the ability to carry the bag or roll it, depending on your circumstances. My Recommendation – TravelPro Rolling Duffle Bag with Drop Bottom. This comes in all different colors and sizes, but I recommend the 30”, as it’s plenty roomy without being overwhelming. This rolling duffle is lightweight, yet incredibly durable; it survived a few weeks of safaris in Africa with no problems. It also has many different pockets and separators to keep your bag well-organized. 

To keep your luggage organized as a whole, I couldn’t recommend packing cubes highly enough. I originally didn’t think they had much use, but they’ve changed my life when it comes to packing – whether it’s just for a weekend trip or a year-long journey. They come in all different sizes, and I use a variety of small, medium, and large packing cubes. My Recommendation: I have tested many packing cubes over the years, and I can say – without a doubt – that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cubes are the absolute best on the market. They are incredibly durable and as lightweight as possible. And look at how nicely they fit into a suitcase!

How I pack my carry on to include all travel essentials

And always remember: lock all of your luggage with TSA-approved locks if you don’t have a suitcase with built in locks. Both checked luggage, and carry on (yes, this means backpacks too). I’ve tried many different locks over the years, but these are my favorite. I presume you’re like me and don’t want people sifting through your checked bag nor people sneaking into your carry on while you sleep (have you heard the stories of valuables being stolen from airplanes?).

But now that you’ve chosen your luggage, you’re probably wondering what travel essentials are actually necessary to pack….

I’m going to break down my packing list into easy-to-organize categories for you. Just remember to pick and choose what you most need for the trip you’re taking. So, let’s do this!

Carry On Essentials

Documents & Confirmations: These are things that you simply must have on you at all times. DO NOT leave your house without packing these into your personal items, as they are absolute travel essentials. 

Comfort: Unless you travel first class, flights are rarely considered comfortable – and it doesn’t matter if it’s an easy 5-hour flight or a 19-hour flight! Make your life easier by packing these few travel essentials for a bit of extra comfort. There’s no way that I could do an overnight flight even semi-comfortably without these!

Noise Cancelling Headphones, Eye Mask, Pillow – Travel Essentials

• Blow Up Pillow:  I’ll start by saying that I think I’ve tried every airplane pillow out there, or just about! Since I take so many overnight flights, and we all know how airplane pillows feel, it makes sense to bring your own. I began not to worry about the shape or size — if it helped me sleep, it was a keeper. My Recommendation – Haobaimei Airplane Pillow. I know, I know it looks a bit silly, but I promise you that it’s the best airplane pillow out there. It has allowed me to sleep comfortably in a variety of positions. I’d like to be able to describe it in detail, but you’re better off clicking this link , and scrolling to the “product description” to see all of the reasons why this pillow is a must!
• Foot Rest: You’re probably thinking, “what?” But yes, airplane footrests are a thing, and quite comfortable. Rather than trying to squeeze your legs under the chair (and slam your shins along the way), you can instead set up your footrest. My Recommendation – Sleepy Ride. I’ve had this footrest for years; it’s incredibly lightweight and folds up tiny. It’s very easy to set up, and you can adjust the height to your preference. 
• Eye Mask – Eye Masks are a tricky thing. Assuming that it will be over your eyes for hours on end, you need to ensure that it doesn’t press against your eyes, doesn’t let light in, and doesn’t slip off your head. My Recommendation – Manta Sleep Mask. I was drawn in not only by their 100% darkness guaranteed, but also by the fact that you can still open your eyes behind the mask too! The fact that there is zero pressure on your eyes, and that it’s fully customizable to your unique face makes it a must have!
• Compression Socks:  Compression socks are important to wear while flying, especially if it’s a long-haul flight! They not only increase circulation, but they help prevent blood clots and swelling too. My Recommendation – Alvada Compression Socks for Men & Women. Get them and remember to bring them on your next flight! 
• Cambridge Mask: I have always traveled with a mask on hand, should I get sick or should there be something going around. Cambridge Masks are amongst the best out there, as their masks meet the N99 standard and protect against almost 100% of pollutants, viruses, and bacteria *if the mask is worn correctly.* Whenever using a mask, make sure that it's snug on your face, avoid touching the front of the mask, and be sure to wash your hands before putting the mask on/taking it off.  My Recommendation –  Cambridge Mask Co.
• Earplanes: Have you ever struggled with painful ear popping on airplanes? Well I get horrible ear pain whenever I fly… to the point where I cannot fly without them. My Recommendation – EarPlanes Pack of 3. These work fantastically to relieve the pressure in your ears during take off and landing, while muffling some of the noise too. 
• Reusable Water Bottle:  I always recommend traveling with a water bottle on hand for two reasons. (1) It’s good to have a bottle that the flight attendants can fill up for you so that you’re not stuck to 3 sips of water until the next flight attendant comes back. (2) Having a reusable water bottle can help minimize your plastic waste. My Recommendation – Hydro Flask. The Hydro Flask is a BPA-free stainless steel, slip free water bottle. It comes in a variety of sizes and will keep hot drinks hot for up to six hours and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. Definitely handy to have while traveling!
• Sweatshirt or Jacket: Planes (or any type of transportation honestly) can sometimes be unbearably cold! I definitely recommend always having a sweatshirt or jacket on hand, or both, as I doubt anyone wants to be freezing and uncomfortable for hours on end. 
• Change of Clothes: No one likes a smelly person 😉 But in all honesty, it’s important to have a change of clothes on hand for just in case your luggage gets lost. If you’re going on a beach trip, pack a bathing suit. A hiking trip, pack your spandex. You get the point. 
• Carabiners – While this may seem a bit random, carabiners are incredibly useful for travel. I use a carabiner to clip my water bottle to my carry on, as well as to clip my pillow and footrest to the seat in front of me too. You don’t need anything fancy, so something like these will do. 

Technology & Valuables: Anything of value should never be checked. Make sure that all technology and valuables (like jewelry & sunglasses) are packed in your carry on and in a locked compartment. Some of these things may be obvious, but I’m still including them if you reference this as your packing list. 

As a content creator, I obviously pack a lot more tech than the average person, but please use the list below as a guideline for what to pack tech-wise according to your needs. Perhaps you’ll even find something new to bring with you on your next trip! 

A typical day with my laptop on the road

• Smartphone: This is a given these days, but make sure you pack your phone! It’s also incredibly helpful to have some apps downloaded that might help make your travel easier. My favorite is App in the Air 🙂 My Recommendation – iPhone Xs Max. If you’re looking for a new smartphone, I have an iPhone Xs Max 256 GB and absolutely love it. 
• Noise Cancelling Headphones (and iPod):  Airplanes are noisy. People are noisy. Babies are noisy. Get rid of the noise! My Recommendation – Bose QuietComfort 35 II. These wireless, bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones are honestly a dream. They are the very first thing I pack in my personal item, as I couldn’t do a flight without them! Of course, make sure you have music downloaded on your phone or iPod to listen to as well (and yes, I still use an iPod). 
• Earbuds: While I’m obsessed with noise cancelling headphones, it’s always a good idea to have a regular pair of earbuds too. They do make noise-cancelling earbuds as well, but those have never felt right to me. My Recommendation – Apple Airpods with Charging Case. These Airpods automatically connect to your device and charge within 15 minutes once you put them back in their case. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to travel with. 
• Kindle:  I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle. I love that it allows me to travel with as many books as I’d like, without the burden of actually having to lug them around. My Recommendation – Kindle Paperwhite. The flush design is as close to “paper” as it gets and there are no glares (this I can promise, as I always read at the beach in the sun!). It is also waterproof, which is convenient, and pairs with bluetooth headphones as well if you’re an audiobook listener. 
• Laptop:  Depending on what you do or for how long you’re traveling, you may not need to bring your laptop. My Recommendation – MacBook Air or MacBook Pro 15”. These both have very different uses. For travel, the MacBook Air is significantly easier to travel with. While it’s infinitely lighter though, it doesn’t have the same processing power as the MacBook Pro 15”. If you plan on editing a lot of photos or videos, unfortunately the heavier MacBook Pro 15” should be your go-to. I personally used (and loved) the MacBook Air for years before switching to the MacBook Pro 15”, which is what I use now (for a stronger and faster laptop). 
• Laptop Case:  Even if your backpack or messenger bag has a laptop sleeve, be sure to have your laptop in its own protective case! My Recommendation – CCPK Laptop Sleeve. This is as basic a laptop sleeve as it gets, but it is snug and will protect your laptop, without adding extra bulk. 
• External Hard Drive:  If you’re on the road a lot or take excess photos, you’ll certainly want an external hard drive on hand to back everything up! My Recommendation –  LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive. I’ve had multiple LaCie Rugged Hard Drives, and I’ve loved each and every one of them. They’re perfect for any kind of trip, as they’re compact, durable, and water-resistant. And if you’re interested in learning how to better edit your photos, it even comes with a complimentary one-month membership to Adobe! 
• USB Drive: I can’t even begin to tell you how many times people ask if I can give them a USB drive with photos. It’s an extremely small, very useful thing to have on you if you’re in the content creation space. My Recommendation – SanDisk Cruzer Glide CZ60 USB Drive . I personally recommend the 256 GB, as you’ll never worry about running out of space, but any will do based on your needs. 
• DSLR Camera: Now this one is tricky one because every person has different travel needs and preferences. I’ve personally traveled with a Canon, Sony, and Panasonic… but it wasn’t until I traveled with an Olympus Camera that I was fully content. My Recommendation – Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Not only is it the lightest DSLR that I have ever carried around with me, but it’s waterproof and weather-sealed, which makes it ideal for every situation. This is my go-to travel camera these days, and you can read the full review of my Olympus products here.  

Always travel equipped with a good camera!

• Lenses:  Again, lenses will depend on the type of photo that you’re aiming to get. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II can be purchased with two different lenses, or you can purchase the lenses separately. My Recommendation – M. Zuiko 14-150mm f4-5.6 for your everyday lens and M.Zuiko 7-14mm f2.8 PRO for a wide angle lens. I originally thought I wouldn’t need a wide angle lens, but sure was wrong!
• GoPro: By now I’m sure you’ve heard that the GoPro is the best action-cam on the market and, guess what, it’s true. Whether you’re running down the beach, zip-lining through the air, or diving with sharks, the GoPro can help perfectly capture the moment. My Recommendation – GoPro Hero 8. The GoPro Hero 8 prides itself on filming in 4K, taking 12 MP still shots, and having the best stabilization on an action camera. This is a must for any adventure traveler! 
• Memory Cards:  Make sure you purchase high quality memory cards. I always recommend smaller memory card sizes, and a lot of them. If a memory card were to become corrupt, I would hate to lose everyone on a 256 GB memory card! My Recommendation – SanDisk 32 GB Extreme Pro for your camera and the SanDisk 64 GB Micro SD for your GoPro. The Extreme Pro writes quite quickly at 95 mbps and the Micro SD is a Class 10, meaning that it will work great for full HD video playback. Both SD Cards are waterproof, shock proof, and temperature-proof. 
• Gimbal:  No one likes shaky videos. If you’re shooting with a smartphone or GoPro, a gimbal helps stabilize your videos and keeps them smooth. They’re relatively lightweight and portable, and a necessity if you want to get into video. My Recommendation – DJI Osmo Mobile 2. DJI is an incredible reputable brand and their gimbal is one of the most lightweight on the market. Run, jump, do everything in between, and this gimbal will keep your videos stable. 
• FitBit: It’s no secret that I’ve always loved my FitBit. I’ve worn one for years, and I love that it provides me with in-depth sleep analytics while also counting my steps, calories, and distance walked for the day. My Recommendation – FitBit Versa. I’ve had a few different FitBit’s over the years, and the Versa is definitely my favorite! It’s the biggest competitor to the Apple Watch, and I prefer its exercise analytics and sleek design. You can also download your favorite apps and music on your FitBit Versa too! 
• Portable Speaker:  I actually bought the UE Roll out of necessity when our other speaker died on a road trip through New Zealand , but I’m SO happy we did! It’s incredibly portable and easily hung up or carried with you. My Recommendation – UE Roll Wireless. This bluetooth speaker is not only wireless, but waterproof and shockproof too. It has great sound quality, and  it makes for the perfect addition to any camp out, beach day, or general use around the house. 
• Portable Battery Charger: You never know when your phone or camera might die. I always always always carry a portable battery charger with me. Not only does it ensure that I will always be charged up, but it’s also nice to be able to provide your friends with a bit of juice when their phones die too (because, no, they typically never have an external battery charger). My Recommendation – myCharge AdventureMax Portable Charger . The myCharge is an important buy for travelers because, aside from having dual USB ports for charging (which is awesome), it is also splash-proof, drop-resistant, and dirt-proof, making it the perfect travel buddy. It’s also incredibly small and compact and has an attached carabiner, so it’s easy to throw in your purse or attach off a backpack.  
• International Adaptor: No matter where you’re traveling, this is an absolute must. I always carry at least two international adaptors so that, if one breaks, I always have a back up. You would be surprised how many people forget to pack an international adaptor. My Recommendation – Upgraded Universal Travel Adaptor. The reason I love this travel adaptor is that not only does it have a standard plug, but four USB ports as well. Sometimes I don’t have a long time to charge my equipment, but with this adaptor I have the ability to charge everything at the same time. This Universal Adaptor works in over 150 countries, so it’s certainly handy to have!
• Chargers: If you have a lot of gear, it’s likely that you have a lot of cords and cables. While there’s no need to elaborate, these are the main chargers that I always have on hand. 

Medications: When people think of travel essentials, they don’t typically think of meds, but important Medications should never be checked! Should your luggage be lost, you don’t want to be without your daily meds. If you have prescribed medication, ensure that it is packed in your carry on. Aside from our individual health needs, I recommend packing – at minimum – Advil, Allergy Medications, Pepto-Bismol (or something similar), Motion Sickness Tablets, Tylenol AM/PM, and Malaria Tablets (depending on your destination), as well as Neosporin Cream and Hydrocortisone Cream. And, of course, if you carry an EpiPen, don’t forget that either! 

Miscellaneous: These are some small things I wasn’t sure how to categorize, but I make sure to have all of these in my carry on as well!

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Clothing is a tricky one, as this really varies per person. I’ve done 8 month trips where I’ve had 5 tops and 5 bottoms, and weeklong cruise trips where I have 20 outfits for 7 days. I highly recommend Anatomie as your go-to travel clothing brand though, and they’ve actually been endorsed by both Forbes Travel Guide and Condé Nast Traveler. Please take the time to view these three articles:

• The Best Travel Pants For Women
• The Best Travel Shirts For Women
• Travel Clothes For Women 

With the founders of Anatomie, my go-to travel clothing!

In general though, you can use the table below as a rough guideline for the types of clothing you should pack. I don’t go anywhere without these things – no matter what season it is. Remember when packing, your clothes will typically get a bit wrinkly, so I recommend bringing a travel-sized wrinkle releaser as well as a dual-voltage travel steamer. 

Toiletries: Do yourself a favor and purchase the Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Bag . It’s the perfect sized toiletry bag and very lightweight. It should easily fit all of your toiletries, aside from your Microfiber Towel ( this is a must! ). There’s no need to explain what each toiletry is needed for though, so I’m providing you with another table with what to bring – 

Shoes: Shoes are always a personal preference. I used to travel with just one pair of flip flops and one pair of hiking boots, but times have changed a bit. I know other people who practically need a whole suitcase just for their heels. With that said, these days I typically pack sandals, a pair of flip-flops, black heels, nude heels, cross-training shoes, sneakers, and hiking boots when I’m going on a longer trip. And, of course, plenty of socks! I recommend Puma’s ankle socks and Darn Tough hiking socks. 

Gotta have a good pair of heels while you're cruising!

Outdoor Essentials

Camping: So you’ve decided that you want to become one with nature, or you’re simply on a trip that’s better suited for camping – awesome! Years ago I spent two months camping through Central America and another two months camping through Africa, and both were incredible experiences. It helped that I was well-prepared though! It’s important to note that even if you decide to camp in the summer (or in a desert), it is not always warm at night. I’ve learned this the hard way, so make sure you pack many layers and are prepared for every type of climate, every time. My go-to camping equipment is as follows –

Couldn't have camped in New Zealand without my lightweight tent!

• Big Agnes Tent: Big Agnes is the best of the best when it comes to finding the most lightweight, durable tents. I used a bulkier tent for my first camping trip and regretted it instantly. My Recommendation – Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 3. I’ve loved every night that I’ve spent in this tent — it’s unbelievably light for a three-person tent, very comfortable, and weatherproof too! I always opt for a three-person tent over a two-person tent so that we can keep our gear inside with us and have a little extra space. 
• Sleeping Pad: A good sleeping pad is a necessity. When I first started camping I tried to go cheap to save money, but it was a terrible decision. It definitely isn’t fun spending the night slipping and sliding off your mat, or feeling the ground under your back. My Recommendation –  Big Agnes Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad. This sleeping pad comes with the option of it being insulated or uninsulated, and I’d definitely recommend the insulation as it’s rated for 3-season camping and still only weighs in at 21oz! This folds up incredibly small (about the size of a water bottle) yet doesn’t compromise on its comfort. 
• Sleeping Bag: A roomy yet packable sleeping bag is also, obviously, very important for camping. I recommend getting a 2-3 season sleeping bag and doing your research to ensure that it’s super lightweight. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Spark Down Sleeping Bag. The beauty of this sleeping bag is that it weighs just over a pound and packs down to just 4.9L! It also comes with a compression bag so that it compresses down to the size of a water bottle. This sleeping bag is water resistant, has a great hooded component, and will keep you warm all night. 
• Sleep Liner: This is something that a lot of people forget about, but it’s incredibly handy. I suggest traveling with a sleep liner for a few reasons. First, it can be an extra layer if it’s colder outside, but it can also be your only layer if it’s too warm for your sleeping bag. Also, it doesn’t need to be used just for camping. When I used to stay in hostels, I’d use my sleep liner in bed rather than use the blanket. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Adaptor Coolmax Liner Traveller with Insect Shield. I’ve used this all over the world. You can purchase it without the insect shield, but I personally prefer having the extra insect repellant treatment, especially when in outdoorsy locations. 
• Ultra Light Pillow: You want a comfortable, small blowup pillow to have with you. I’ve seen way too many people fold up their clothes into an uncomfortable pillow when they could have just brought a lightweight pillow. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Ultra Light. I’ve had this pillow for about five years now, and it’s never let me down. I won’t go anywhere without it. Not only does it pack down to smaller than the palm of my hand, but it’s genuinely comfortable! There have been many times where I’ve been in luxury hotels with pillows that were too high for me, so I just blew up this little pillow.  
• Hammock or Sleeping Hammock: If you’re camping, sometimes you just want to hang out outside of the tent… literally. A hammock definitely comes in handy during those times! Travel hammocks are easy to set up and are great for lounging, napping or reading a book. My Recommendation – ENO DoubleNest Hammock. This is a two person hammock, but comfortable for just one as well. It folds down small and is quite lightweight. Sometimes we bring it on our hikes as well, rather than just keeping them at the campsite! If you don’t feel like sleeping in the tent, or have a third-wheeler tagging along, the ENO Ember 2 Under Quilt could be of use too. 

Who doesn't love a good hammock?!

• Cookware: If you’re camping, you’ll definitely want the ability to cook easily. We all know though that no one wants to lug metal pots and pans to their campsite. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit X-Series. It doesn’t get much better than lightweight, durable, and collapsible cookware! The 5-piece set comes with one pot, two bowls, and two mugs, so you may need to order more than one set depending on how many people you’re camping with. They fold up smaller than you could imagine! 
• Spork: A spork is just one of the most convenient things you could have. Whether you need a spoon, knife, or fork, the spork has your back! I always carry a spork with me in my daypacks as well, as you never know when you will need one. My Recommendation – Tapirus 5 Spork of Steel Utensils Set. I highly recommend these rust-proof stainless steel sporks over their plastic equivalents. I had numerous plastic sporks break on me before transitioning to stainless steel and haven’t had any problems since. 
• Inflatable Lounger: Have you seen these things?! They’re infinitely better than any camp chair and fold up even smaller! These are truly one of the most interesting and useful camping additions that I’ve seen. My Recommendation – AlphaBeing Inflatable Lounger. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, click that link and check it out — it’s one of those things that is better visualized than described.  
• LED Camping Lantern: You certainly need something to light up your campsite or tent once it gets dark. As I like to keep things small and portable, I always suggest going for a lantern that collapses into itself. My Recommendation – MISPO 6 Pack Portable Camping Lantern with LED Flashlights. These are the perfect mini lanterns to put in and around your campsite. Then, when you’re not using them, they barely take up any space and pack away easily.  

Hiking: It’s important to practice safe hiking anywhere you go. As always, I recommend looking up your hiking trails in advance, letting someone know where you’re going, and having a trail map handy. Bring many layers, in addition to the following –

Couldn't have tackled the Matterhorn Base Camp without my hiking poles!

• Hiking Backpack: If you’re planning on taking day trips from your campsite or accommodation, a good hiking backpack is a necessity. I always look for things like good waist support and structure, as well as ample pockets. My Recommendation –  Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. If you don’t remember why I chose these packs specifically, please scroll back up to the “luggage” section. 
• Trekkers Pack: If you’re going on a multi-day hike or staying in refugios along the trail, then you’ll need a bigger and better trekkers pack. Like the hiking backpack, this needs to be both structured and very comfortable. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . Jump back up to the “luggage” section if you’d like a refresher on these options.  
• Hydration Pack: Whether you’re going out on a two hour hike on a hot summer day or a long trek, a water bladder makes a massive difference! You won’t have to deal with taking off your backpack to take a sip, or worrying about your water bottle falling out of the side pocket. Plus, you can carry far more water with a hydration pack as well. My Recommendation – CamelBak Crux 2L or 3L Reservoir. I originally thought I’d save money by going with a non-name brand, but when I did that my water always tasted like plastic and, quite frankly, it was disgusting. CamelBak deserves the praise that it gets, and it’s definitely worth the price tag. I have both a 2L and a 3L, depending on what type of hike I’m doing. I find the 3L more useful on a day-to-day basis, as it doesn’t always need to be filled to the top.
• Hiking Poles: Hiking Poles are a necessity for any hiker, in my opinion. Hiking poles not only make you a bit faster, but they take some pressure off your knees too. I always look for carbon poles are they are a lot lighter than aluminum poles. My Recommendation –   Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles. Not only are these lightweight, 100% carbon fiber, and of the highest quality, but they also fold into three sections which makes them incredibly convenient to pack or attach to a backpack when not in use. 
• Headlamp: Whether you’re completing a sunrise or sunset mission, wandering around your campsite in the evening, or misjudged the length of your hike, it is imperative to carry a headlamp on you whenever you’re hiking! My Recommendation – Black Diamond Storm Headlamp. This headlamp is both waterproof and dustproof, which is always helpful! It also had three different color LED options, as well as adjustable intensity. I also love that it has a lock mode, which keeps my headlamp from turning on in my pack!

Hiking in the dark can be dangerous without a headlamp

• Water Filter: A water filter is very important when you’re out hiking. If something happens and you run out of water, you can stick it into any water (from a dirty puddle to a river) and it should come out clean. My Recommendation – LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. The LifeStraw removes waterborne bacteria, waterborne parasites, and micro-plastics found in the environment from your water. It is the most reliable water filter system for a hiker on the market. One of the admirable things about LifeStraw is that for every product purchased, a child receives safe drinking water for an entire school year – pretty remarkable! 
• Pocket Tissues: You never know when you’ll have a runny nose, have to clean up a spill… or need to pee. Just have them on you. 
• First Aid Kit: This should be a given, but I know plenty of people who don’t hike with one. Should anything happen, it helps to know that you’re properly prepared. My Recommendation – M2 Basic 150 Piece First Aid Kit. This is a travel-sized first aid kit that is about the size of your hand, so there’s no excuse not to put it in your backpack!
• Bug Spray Wipes: Applying bug spray is typically a pain and tends to leave you sticky and oily, but not with the wipes! My Recommendation: Repel 94100 Sportsmen 30-Percent Deet Mosquito Repellent Wipes. I started traveling with these in 2013 and haven’t looked back. They’re incredibly easy-to-use, portable, and protective. 
• Clif Bars or Clif Protein Bars: You definitely need to ensure that you have some sustenance to keep you going while hiking. Although I’m not a big fan of the sugar content in Clif Bars, there’s no debating the fact that they were designed to help give your body fuel while active. My Recommendation – Clif Bar Variety Pack or, if you’re looking for a higher level of protein, the Clif Builders Protein Bar Variety Pack. While Clif Bars are – hands down – the tastiest protein bars on the market, my favorite flavors are the White Chocolate Macadamia and the Chocolate Mint. 
• Hiking Boots: Wearing good hiking boots is, of course, imperative. Over the years, I’ve spent ages researching the best and most comfortable brands. Another aspect that’s always important to me is that they’re waterproof, as you never know what conditions you might be hiking in or if the weather might take a turn. My Recommendation – Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot and Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot. Once I discovered Lowa, I never turned back. I’ve owned four different pairs of their hiking boots, as I’m incredibly happy with the model. They are properly waterproof and supportive, and perfect for any type of hike be it short distance or long distance. 
• Hiking Socks: If you hike a lot, you know how important a comfortable, breathable sock is. If you’re anything like me, your socks probably also take a bit of a beating, so you need to find something reliable. My Recommendation – Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Womens and Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Mens. Not only are Darn Tough socks incredibly comfortable and antimicrobial, but they are guaranteed for life! If you’re a frequent hiker, there’s no brand more reliable than Darn Tough, and they’re certainly worth the price tag.  
• Base Layers: Base layers have saved me time and time again while out for long hikes, and I cannot stress their importance! If I’m not wearing my base layers, they’re in my bags. While there are so many brands and base layers out there, it’s important to do your research as I simply can’t list them all. My Recommendation – Women’s Ultra-Soft Long Johns & Warm Top Set and Men’s Thermal Underwear Set. Always, always make sure that your base layers are moisture-wicking!
• Down Jacket: I carry a down jacket with me on every trail, every camping trip, and even every airplane. It doesn’t matter whether it’s sweltering hot or freezing cold, I always have one with me to ensure that I’m prepared. My Recommendation – Mountain Hardwear Women’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket and Men’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket. These jackets are, in my opinion, the best lightweight down jackets on the market. The hood is important, as it provides that extra warm, and they’re both machine-washable. Another aspect that I love – and find to be incredibly useful – is that it folds up into itself so that it packs down extremely small. The jacket is worth every cent to me, and I wouldn’t travel without it!

Staying warm in Iceland thanks to my down jacket

• Rain Jacket: You’re pretty much crazy if you decide to go hiking without a rain jacket. Not only could the weather change from a beautiful day to an ugly storm in the blink of an eye, but it also serves as a windproof layer as well. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Jacket and Outdoor Research Men’s Horizon Jacket. After testing out multiple lightweight rain jackets, and finding myself soaked after a good rain, I decided to invest in a GORE-TEX rain jacket. While they’re slightly bigger, these rain jackets will still packs down small enough to throw in your backpack… and it will actually keep you try! They are waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable due to the multiple venting systems. 
• Hat: An easily packable sun hat always comes in handy. While there are plenty of “cute” ones out there, I like to make sure that I purchase hats that can both be thrown in the wash and are moisture-wicking. My Recommendation –  Outdoor Research Women’s Solar Roller Hat. I discovered this hat a few years back, and found it so convenient that it’s the only hat that I ever hike or travel with. While this is obviously a women’s hat, the male or uni-sex equivalent would be the Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat.  
• Buff: Buffs have many uses – whether you’re wanting to keep your neck, face, or head warm. They’re lightweight and incredibly useful. My Recommendation – Buff Polar Multifunctional Headwear. I’ve owned many buffs in my life and, when I’m outdoors, the Polar Buff is most definitely my favorite. It has a SPF 50 and has fleece at the bottom and microfiber at the top, making it the perfect accessory to keep both your neck and face warm in chilly temperatures. It’s also moisture-wicking and quick-drying, and can be worn in over ten different ways! 
• Gloves: There are honestly so many warm, cozy gloves on the market that it’s hard to choose just one. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s PL Base Sense Gloves and the Outdoor Research Men’s PL Sensor Gloves . You need a glove that can withstand cold weather, is wind resistant, and offers touchscreen compatibility. 

Fitness “On The Go” Essentials

I get asked all the time how I stay in shape while on the road. Whether I’m in a luxury hotel and eating my heart out, or camping and carb loading, I can’t say that it’s easy. But I will say that it takes conscious effort every single day. I’ve learned to say no to two $0.25 ice cream cones in the same day, as tempting as it is! I also implement a strict workout routine, which has gotten infinitely easier since I started using LiveKick Fitness. They specialize in one-on-one personal training and private yoga done via live video — think FaceTime but for fitness! You can choose your (highly qualified) instructor for a time that works for you, no matter where you live in the world! I’ve done everything from high intensity exercise in my ocean view hotel in Australia to yoga in my office at home in the States. And the best part is, you don’t need access to a gym or any equipment if you don’t want! You could try out LiveKick Fitness here, and be sure to use the code “FIVEFOOTTRAVELER15” for 15% off your LiveKick plan! Other than being armed with my LiveKick Fitness App, I travel with –

Screen cap of my LiveKick personal training (left) & yoga (right)

• Resistance Loop Exercise Bands – I started using looped resistance bands when I injured my knee two years ago, but it’s a fantastic addition to any workout when you’re a new exerciser or an exercise junkie. I use these largely for strength training and physical therapy.
• Flat Exercise Bands – Flat exercise bands give you a few more options, which allows you to truly get a full body workout whenever you want.
• Rumble Roller – My 12-inch RumbleRoller is one of my favorite things that I pack, when I have the space! Nothing feels better than this spiky foam roller after a good hike or exercise. 
• Cross-Training Shoe – I’ve made the mistake many times of doing aerobics and weight-lifting in a running sneaker, which just isn’t good for you! The Nike Air Bella’s are light-weight and comfortable trainers.
• Running Shoe – If you’re also a runner though, I’d recommend packing your running shoes too. Maybe you’ll be luckier than I and could find a one-shoe-fits-all for you though! I’ve worn Brooks Ghost sneakers for many years now and I’ve been quite happy with them. 
• Travel Yoga Mat – I always wanted the ability to be able to stretch anytime, anywhere, which led me to research travel-sized yoga mats. The Plyopic Travel Yoga Mat is both lightweight, eco-friendly, and foldable so that you can bring it wherever you need. 

Reading Essentials

Beach reads are always necessary. Sometimes it’s nice to get lost in a good story and enjoy a book with a view. While I could individually summarize these books, I think it’s best if you check them out yourself to see which one is best for you 🙂 Here are some of my favorite travel books –

It may not be the beach, but I thought it was a great spot to read!

• Love with a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche
• What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding by Kristin Newman
• Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
• Wild by Cheryl Strayed
• On the Road by Jack Kerouac
• In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
• Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
• Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
• Drink, Play, F@#k by Bob Sullivan
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

If you feel like being slightly more intellectual on your vacation, I highly recommend these excellent entrepreneur books:

• Expert Secrets by Russel Brunson (#1 recommended biz book!)
• DotCom Secrets by Russel Brunson
• 177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class by Steve Siebold
• How to Make Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck by Mark Manson
• Ca$hvertising by Drew Eric Whitman

Business Management Essentials

More and more frequently you will find people on the road who have the freedom to work remotely. If you are a business owner, or wannabe business owner, these are my absolutely necessary softwares and systems needed to keep my business running online, even when I’m not in front of my computer. Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean that you need to stop making money 🙂

Working remotely on the beach in Australia

• ClickFunnels – Whether you run an online business or you’re looking to become a digital nomad, ClickFunnels is an absolute must! This software helps you great the highest converting sales funnels amongst many, many other incredible features. They offer a free Affiliate Bootcamp that I highly recommend going through if you’re new to the online space. If you aren’t new to working online, and haven’t checked out ClickFunnels though, you can grab your free trial here. Email me if you do, and I will share with you my top converting sales funnel.  
• GetResponse – Email marketing is key to success. No matter what business you’re in, you need the ability to directly reach out to your followers or consumers without every having to think about social media algorithms. Through email marketing you can get your audience to know, like, and trust you… and ultimately buy from you. And the beauty of this is that if you’re on a trip, you can set up an email autoresponder series to continually bring in sales without you having to even open up your computer! GetResponse is free for under 1,000 email contacts, and have incredibly reasonable rates after that given the service they provide. You can sign up for your free account here.  
• BlueHost – Do you have a blog or website? It needs to be hosted somewhere to be kept safe! Your web host ensures that your site continues to run smoothly and backs up your site daily should anything go wrong; it’s your website’s safety shield. BlueHost offers incredibly low rates, and I’m able to give them to you for even lower. You can purchase your BlueHost web hosting for just $3.95/month here! 
• ClickMagick – I personally never click on an “ugly” link – a link that has a ton of numbers and letters and seemingly goes on forever. ClickMagick allows you to turn those long ugly links into short, clean URLs using your domain name. You can grab your ClickMagick account here.
• Later – If you’re wondering how people post to Instagram on the go or have beautifully crafted Instagram feeds, it’s likely because they use a tool to help them get organized. I first discovered Later last year and have used them ever since to help schedule, analyze, and organize my accounts. Because they’re an official partner of Instagram, you can craft your posts and then schedule them to be automatically posted to Instagram! And the best part is, it’s free! Set up your free account here. 
• TailWind – If you understand the value of Pinterest for your business, TailWind is an absolute must. It allows you to easily schedule out your Pins and re-Pin from others in your niche. You can adjust your settings so that you auto-Pin throughout the day, without having to sit in front of your phone or computer the whole time! Pinterest is a huge driver of traffic to websites, so it’s important that you take advantage of its benefits. TailWind is also free, and you can claim your account here.  
• LiveLeap – Are you someone who likes to go live on social media a lot, either to showcase what your business has to offer or to show off your latest vacation? LiveLeap allows you to live stream on Facebook across multiple pages, which can increase your views ten times more than without it! So if you stream on your business page, you can also connect it to your personal page and Facebook group so that your live video goes live on all of those pages at once. It’s a great way to expand your reach! You can set up your account here. 

I hope that this list of travel essentials didn’t overwhelm you! I obviously travel full-time and am always over-prepared, so you just need to pick and choose which of these items is most important for the type of trip that you are preparing for. I wish you the best of luck with packing… as I sure as heck know how much we BOTH need it! As you pack and prepare for your next trip, please let me know in the comments below if I missed any important travel essentials. 

I'll leave you with some penguins – and a great travel hat!

In the meantime, please ensure that you purchase travel insurance before you leave! Of all of these travel essentials, t ravel insurance is arguably the most important thing to have on hand (after your passports and visas). I’ve had to use my travel insurance multiple times on the road, even though I’m healthy. You never know when something might happen; take comfort in knowing that whether your flight gets cancelled or you wind up sick and in the hospital, you will be covered. I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance for all of you. You can get a free quote here.  

Pin “137 Travel Essentials” For Later!

The only thing I would add is: a few zip lock bags. I’ve done a lot of travelling…roadtrips, backpacking in Europe, rail and air travel, and won’t go anywhere without them. You never know when something will start leaking, or you have leftover snacks, or need a waterproof place to stash your phone or pocket camera. They take no space at all, and never say “I told you so!” when you do need one.

YES! Great tip! I always have them on me too 🙂

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Hi, I’m Sarah!

Hello World! I’m Sarah Gallo, The Five Foot Traveler, and I choose to dream out loud. After conquering a crippling fear of flying, I’ve developed an unquenchable passion for traveling. Since my newfound freedom, I have set foot on all seven continents, explored 114 countries, and continue to strive to live life to the fullest. Continue Reading…

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The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Our vacation packing list gives you the ultimate checklist of everything you need to travel safely, smartly, and with style.

Download this entire checklist in PDF format at the end of this article for you to print, check, and take with you on your travels. That way, you’ll have a record of everything you’re traveling with and won’t forget any essentials.

Travel Documents

1. passport.

An RFID-blocking passport holder is a great addition to keep your passport safe and accounted for. Some people also like to make photocopies of their passports, just in case.

2. Documents Required at Destination

Some customs agents are not overly keen on digital documents shown on your phone. Try to print your key documents off before traveling, if possible, including:

• hotel reservation,
• onward or return flight, and
• vaccine certificates (if applicable).

3. Travel Insurance

Don’t take the risk, even for short trips. Be sure to check the fine print of your insurance and the specifics of what you are covered for. Aggregator websites often list by best price rather than all the essentials you selected.

4. Driver’s License

While not all driver’s licenses are valid abroad, this can double up as an important document to verify your identity. As always, check your destination to see if your driver’s license is valid for driving.

5. Rental Car Confirmation

Have this document ready for when you get to the rental station. Make sure you also have all the necessary paperwork, such as an international driver’s license, if required.

6. Trip Itinerary

This travel binder gives you over 30 pages of printables to document and plan your trip. That way, you won’t waste time on trip last-minute planning and wasting time.

7. Travel Documents Organizer

Why spend time combing through scrumped-up papers in your carry-on? Keep all your documents in one safe place with a travel documents organizer.

8. Cash and Cards

Try to exchange cash before you fly, and use your cards for backup. Airports, in particular, will give you a very poor exchange rate once you land.

A top-up card can not only give you a better exchange rate at ATMs but also act as an invaluable barrier between your cash and your home bank account.

9. List of Emergency Contacts

Need a printable for this? This travel binder , mentioned above, has you covered.

10. Copies of Travel Documents

Particularly for documents such as passports and driver’s licenses, it’s a great idea to scan them in and print off copies at home. Add them to your travel document organizer for peace of mind.

Health and Personal Care

11. medication.

Medication should be taken seriously. Pharmacies in other countries may not be open on weekends, you may need a prescription, or it may be difficult to explain your symptoms in another language.

Consider packing medications you need, which may include your prescriptions and medication for:

• Pain Relief
• Birth Control
• Allergy Medication
• First-Aid Kit
• Insect Repellent

However, be sure to check the rules for traveling internationally with medications to the countries you’re going to (including the ones you’ll just be passing through). Some countries will have restrictions on the medications they allow into the country or restrictions on the quantity you can take.

12. Hand Sanitizer

It is easy to find hand sanitizer under 100ml (3.4 ounces) that you can bring on the plane. If you get one with a clip, it can be easily attached to a rucksack strap.

13. Antibacterial Wipes

Great to have on hand to wipe down taps, toilet seats, armrests, airplane trays, and any other hard services you’ll encounter, both in the airport and on the plane.

Tech & Electronics

14. laptop and charger.

You’ll need your laptop if you plan to do some remote work on vacation. You’ll quickly discover conventional laptops can be very heavy to carry. Ultraportable laptops are ideal if you have to do some work while traveling. Also, consider a padded sleeve to protect your laptop when stowed in your carry-on or if your rucksack doesn’t have a laptop pouch.

15. Phone and Charger

Remember to turn off data roaming when you board the flight. Ensure you get a good international data plan (by getting an eSIM international data plan, an international data plan via your phone provider, or buying a local SIM at your destination).

A protective phone case is a worthy investment, as your phone is such an important device. And consider a second cable charger, particularly as charging cables often fray and break.

16. Portable Battery

Portable batteries are a lifesaver on long flights. This device can give you hours of additional charge if you want to use your phone or device to listen to music or watch movies. Remember to charge it the night before your flight.

17. Multi-Charger

Rather than having to travel with multiple cables, use a multi-charger cable. Not only will you save space, but you can also charge and use all your devices from one solitary point using one travel adapter.

18. Travel Adapter

Universal adapters are a great choice over single-purpose adapters. Such a device allows you to charge from nearly any country in the world. But wherever you go, you absolutely need one.

And we recommend getting one that comes with a universal power strip like Mogics or Bestek.

19. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Great for remote working, sleeping on flights, and relaxing. If headphones are too bulky for your carry-on, you can also consider noise-canceling earbuds.

I own and love using the Bose QuietComfort 20 noise-canceling in-ear headphones. If you’d rather go wireless, Bose has some newer models, including Quiet Comfort earbuds.

20. GoPro/Action Camera

What is great about GoPro is that you can take it literally anywhere. It’s a worthy investment if you want to snap from pools, beaches, hikes, and any outdoor activities. That way, you put your phone, or an expensive SRL/DSRL, at less risk. There are some great accessories for it, too.

21. Travel Speaker

Find a travel speaker that is waterproof, with wifi or Bluetooth connectivity. I own and travel with the Wonderboom speaker from Ultimate Ears.

22. Travel Pillow

If you invest in a quality travel pillow, not the cheap ones found at the airport, they can really help you relax and sleep on flights, buses, and cars.

23. Lounge Pass

The airport lounge can make travel a far more pleasurable experience. If you travel often, a lounge pass can be a sound investment. Our guide on how to get airport lounge access will give you more information.

24. Sleeping Mask

Sleeping on a flight can be difficult if you are sensitive to light. With a comfortable design, sleeping masks can really help you get some shut-eye on long flights.

25. Earplugs

As with sleeping masks, cheap, conventional earplugs rarely work. Take some time to find a design that works for you, and earplugs will drastically reduce noise on flights.

26. Water Bottle

After security checks, you can fill up a collapsible water bottle using a free water fountain before you board. That way, you can stay hydrated throughout your flight.

27. Travel Blanket

Look for a travel blanket that packs up into a pouch. That way, you can attach it to your carry-on without taking up space. A/C, in particular on long flights, can make the plane very cold, so it’s always good to have a blanket that covers the length of your body.

28. Anti-Nausea Bands

Anti-nausea bands are great if motion or pressure changes on flights make you feel nauseous. They are so simple to use that you’ll barely notice them on your wrist.

Entertainment

29. fire tv stick.

Most hotels and AirBnBs today are equipped with TVs that have, at the very least, HDMI compatibility. A Fire TV Stick allows you to watch Netflix, Prime, Disney+, YouTube, and plenty of other services, all from one place. All this highly portable device needs is an internet connection, HDMI port, and electrical socket connection.

30. Kindle Paperwhite

Reading is a great way to relax and pass free time. A Kindle Paperwhite is a super lightweight device that allows you to access all your downloaded titles offline. The device does not emit blue light, so you won’t feel eye strain after a short amount of time.

31. Travel Journal

Travel journaling can be very therapeutic in your downtime, encouraging you to write down thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

32. Weekender Bag

Packaging a smaller weekender bag in your luggage is a great idea. That way, you don’t need to lug a carry-on around for a day trip or weekend away while on vacation.

33. Carry On

Your carry-on needs to strike the perfect balance between comfort, space, and style. In addition, wheeled backpacks that can be used as carry-ons may also be a good choice for you, depending on the trip.

34. Checked Suitcase

Always choose function over style with suitcases. Suitcases get battered, so don’t get worried about how your suitcase looks. Choose one that is easy to push and designed to withstand heavy collisions. Depending on your trip, you may not need a checked suitcase.

35. Packing Cubes

Some debate that packing cubes don’t save space, but they are worth it purely for the organization alone.

36. Clothes

Use our clothes checklist to help you pack for your vacation and leave no stone unturned:

• Jeans and/or Pants
• Rain Jacket
• Workout Clothes

37. Accessories

Our accessories list can help you pack appropriately for your vacation:

It is a good idea to pack a pair of casual shoes, a pair of going-out shoes, and a pair of training shoes if you work out. That set of three should cover you for most activities and scenarios. You can also consider the following:

• Tennis Shoes

39. Toiletries Bag & Toiletries

Get yourself a large toiletries bag, and be sure to pack your essentials. It can be difficult to find certain items abroad if you use specific shampoos, deodorants, or other toiletries. Don’t take the risk: the list below can help you:

• Solid Shampoo
• Solid Conditioner
• Shower Gel and/or Soap
• Moisturizer
• Perfume/Cologne
• Aftersun lotion
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Nail Clippers & File

Particularly for getaways and evenings at bars and restaurants, you will want to look your best and feel great. Our list can help you remember essential beauty accessories:

• Makeup Remover
• Hair Straightener
• Curling Iron
• Hairstyling Products

41. Glasses/Contacts

Always carry a spare pair of glasses. Make sure both pairs are packed into their provided glasses cases. If you wear contacts, bring more than you need for the duration of the vacation.

42. Jewelry Travel Case & Jewelry

Many leave expensive jewelry at home out of fear of loss or damage. A jewelry travel case is an excellent way to carry jewelry in a safe way. Our guide on how to pack necklaces while traveling , along with other jewelry, has plenty of smart tips to follow.

Miscellaneous

43. money belt.

Money belts have come a long way from the stereotypical bulky belt of the nineties. Nowadays, there are plenty of clever designs out there.

Aim for high-protein foods, and try to avoid foods with lots of added sugar. A bag of almonds, cashews, or trail mix are good choices. Our list of road trip snacks can provide you with some ideas on what snacks are good to pack with you.

45. Sewing Repair Kit

A sewing repair kit is simple to pack and stops you from having to go out and buy new clothes. Rips and tears are common when you’re constantly out and about and moving.

46. Stain Remover Stick

A stain remover is a great little accessory to remove coffee, wine, and other stains from clothes, hotel sheets, and carpet floors. We’ve used one countless times when traveling. If you act fast, you can not only save your favorite clothes, but you can also avoid disagreements and fines at hotels and Airbnbs.

47. Eyeglass Repair Kit

An eyeglass repair kit is essential to pack if you don’t use contacts. The screws used to connect the temples to the frames are so tiny that conventional screwdrivers are too big to fix them. Alternatively, pack a spare pair of glasses.

48. VPN Account

VPNs like ExpressVPN allow you to browse the internet via a masked IP address anonymously. Hotel and coffee shop wifi, in particular, are incredibly vulnerable to hackers due to poor security. VPNs give you peace of mind that no one can stalk your activities online.

Packing List by Activity

Certain types of trips require specialized equipment. If you plan to hike on vacation, you’ll need hiking boots. Whereas if you’re heading on a beach holiday, you’ll swap those hiking boots for beach towels and sun parasols.

These essential lists of gadgets and gear could be of use to you for certain types of vacation:

• Beach Gear & Essentials
• Camping Gear & Essentials
• Hiking Gear & Essentials
• Cycling Gear & Essentials
• Remote Work Essentials
• Van Life Gear & Essentials
• Road Trip Essentials

Vacation Packing List Summary

Don’t undertake your vacation without proper planning and preparation. Use our ultimate checklist with over 50 essentials to pack everything you need for a fun and memorable trip.

You Might Also Like to Read

• My Favorite 20 Packing Tips and Hacks You Need to Know
• How to Pack Bras for Travel: 10 Smart & Easy Tips
• How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase for Travel – 8 Smart & Easy Tips

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Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

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Holiday Packing List

The Essential Holiday Packing List 2024

Whether you’re travelling to the tropics or to a winter destination, some items are essentials for any holiday. We’ve put together the essential holiday packing list to make it as easy as possible to prepare ahead of time.

Before You Start Packing:

Travel essentials come in two categories: items you need to bring with you, and things you need to prepare before you leave. Below, we’ve listed the top essentials to prepare before you start to pack your suitcase

• Flights – Make sure you’ve booked all of your flights before you start packing. Print out copies of all of your flight tickets, as you might be required to display a return ticket when you check in. Since ticket prices increase the closer you book to your departure date, it’s best compare flights online and book early using a site like Skyscanner .
• Bus, Train and Boat Tickets – If you’re travelling by bus, train or boat, print your tickets out and keep them in your suitcase or day bag. As well as giving you a printed record of your transfers, this gives you documents that you can show to taxi drivers if you’re in a country where English isn’t the local language.
• Itinerary – If you’ve prepared an itinerary for your trip, print it out so that you’ve got a copy with you wherever you go.
• Passport – It should go without saying, but if you’re travelling overseas you’ll need to have a valid passport. Check that your passport is valid for at least one more year and that there are enough blank pages to cover your entire trip. To protect your passport from damage, keep it in a passport cover while you travel.
• Visas – Do you need a visa for your destinations? Some countries require that you have a visa in order to enter, while others offer visa-free travel to specific nationalities. Check if you need a visa before you book your flight and apply as early as possible to avoid any issues getting into your destination. Not sure if you need a visa? Use VisaHQ to check if you need a visa to get into any of your destination countries.
• Digital Copies Of Your Documents – Scan or photograph your passport, any relevant visas, your driving license, credit cards, insurance information and other relevant documents before your holiday, then save them in your email account. This way, if you lose any of your documents overseas, you’ll have a secure digital copy that only you can access. Also, prepare a list of important phone numbers for your credit card issuer, bank and other essential contacts that you can call if you run into any money issues overseas.
• Hotel Bookings – Book your hotels ahead of time (you can compare prices for hotels in 99% of destinations using Agoda) and print your reservations. This makes checking into any hotel easier, as well as giving you a printed copy of the hotel’s address to show to taxi drivers.
• Vaccinations – Before you pack anything, check if you need any injections before you visit your destination. Talk to a travel doctor and get all of the appropriate vaccinations before you leave so you don’t face any serious health risks during your holiday.
• Face mask – COVID is still very active in many countries and you may be required to wear an SFP2 facemask on the plane and in some indoor spaces. It’s also a good idea to carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser when you travel.
• Allergy Card – If you have any serious food allergies or can’t eat certain foods due to your religion, make sure you have a translated statement that you can show to food vendors and restaurants. Select Wisely sells downloadable allergy cards for most major food and drug allergies in a huge variety of languages.
• Prescriptions – If you take prescription medicine, make sure you’ve got an up-to-date copy of your prescription before you leave. You should also check the laws regarding prescription medicine in all of the countries you plan to visit to ensure you won’t face any issues bringing your medicine through customs.

Financial Items:

• Credit Cards and Debit Cards – Check that your credit cards are up to date and won’t expire during your trip. Before you leave, call your bank and credit card issuer to inform them that you’ll be travelling overseas. Provide a list of the countries you’ll visit and the date of your trip so that your cards aren’t automatically flagged as a fraud risk.
• Travel Insurance – Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Luggage and Travel Items:

• Suitcase or Backpack – If you’re going backpacking, make sure you’ve got a high quality backpack form a brand like Osprey so that you can carry your gear without discomfort. Check that the bag transfers weight to your hips, rather than your back. If you’re travelling to a destination that’s more suited to a suitcase, make sure you have high quality luggage that’s large enough to fit your gear and provide some extra space for anything you buy during your holiday.
• Travel Cubes – Travel cubes make packing and unpacking your bag much easier by sorting your items into separate categories. This way, you don’t have to unpack your entire bag just to access your favourite shirt or pair of shoes. We recommend getting four or more travel cubes and using them to sort your clothes and other items.
• Wash Bag – Make sure you have a good quality wash bag before you leave, since it will make packing and accessing your toiletries much easier, as well as preventing leakage from ruining the other items in your bag. We recommend the Magictodoor Travel Kit , which is affordable and offers more than enough space for your toiletries and health items.
• Travel Wallet – Even if you’re travelling to a safe destination, it’s worth investing in a good quality travel wallet to keep your cash, credit cards and important items out of harm’s way. We recommend the Lewis N. Clark RFID Security Wallet , which is big enough to fit your passport, cash and other essentials but still small enough to wear comfortably beneath your shirt while out and about.
• Guidebooks – Although smartphones and travel websites have made guidebooks less of an essential than they once were, it’s still worth buying a guide to your destination to use for dining and sightseeing recommendations. The Lonely Planet guides are the best on the market, with great recommendations for just about every country you can visit.
• Basic Outfits – There’s no need to pack your entire wardrobe, but make sure you bring at least four of five days worth of clothing if you’re travelling for a week or longer. This way, you’ll be able to do laundry twice a week and always have a spare outfit in reserve. Obviously the perfect clothes depend on your destination, but we recommend packing a variety of clothes that let you stay comfortable while following local customs.
• Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you pack a pair of comfortable shoes you don’t mind wearing for several days in a row. Add a pair of more fashionable shoes to your suitcase or backpack if you plan on going out for dinner or to events. By the way, if you need to squeeze several pairs of shoes into your suitcase, use some travel shoe trees to make sure they retain their shape and aren’t too squashed when you reach your destination. Johnston and Murphy sell great cedar shoe trees that fit the vast majority of men’s shoes and prevent creases and other marks from forming.
• Pyjamas – Most hotels will provide a dressing gown, but you’ll need to pack your own pajamas for your trip. Pack a set of pajamas that suits the weather — breathable and thin for hot countries and warm and comfortable for cooler destinations.
• Swimsuit – If you’re visiting the beach (or just staying at a hotel with a pool) make sure you pack your swimsuit to avoid buying an overpriced one at your destination.

Health and Personal Items:

• Toiletries – Pack your toiletry bag and bring essentials like your toothbrush , toothpaste , moisturiser , shampoo and anything else you use as part of your morning/nightly routine. Since most airlines have a 100 mL limit on liquids, pack large bottles and containers into your checked luggage or transfer them into smaller containers before you pack your day bag.
• Deodorant – It might sound surprising, but Western deodorant isn’t easy to find in every country. Pack a spare stick/can of your usual deodorant before you leave if you’re going to be travelling for two weeks or longer, as you might not be able to find your brand in another country.
• Face and Hair Products – Skin and hair care products aren’t always easy to find in other countries, so make sure you pack your usual items before you leave. To avoid having to hand anything over to customs, use containers of 100 mL or less or pack larger items in your checked baggage.
• Eyeglass or Contact Lens Case – If you wear glasses, make sure you pack a durable eyeglass case for your holiday. Likewise, if you wear contact lenses, pack your contact lens case and a spare bottle of sterile saline solution .
• Feminine Hygiene – Many countries only stock a limited range of feminine hygiene products (tampons, for example, are difficult to find in most of Asia). If your holiday coincides with your period, make sure you’re prepared ahead of time.
• Razors and Shaving Gel – Pack your razor (with enough fresh blades for your trip) and a can of shaving gel before you leave to avoid having to buy a disposable razor later. As always, avoid packing a 100+ mL shaving gel container into your carry-on luggage.
• Medicine – Make sure you pack a container of aspirin/paracetamol before you leave, as well as any other essential medicines. If you take prescription medicine, check that you can carry it legally overseas and ensure it’s packaged correctly to avoid any problems passing through customs.
• Microfiber Towel – Microfiber towels take up very little space and dry in minutes, making them ideal for backpacking trips and adventure holidays. Sunland sells great towels that are priced fairly and small enough to fit into any suitcase or backpack.

Electronics:

• Chargers – Make sure you’ve packed your notebook, smartphone and tablet chargers to avoid having to buy one after you arrive. If you use your phone often, consider getting a power bank so you don’t have to charge it as frequently while you’re travelling.
• Headphones – A good pair of headphones let you zone out and enjoy yourself during long flights and other journeys. Noise-cancelling headphones , which remove ambient sound from your surroundings, are your best bet for clear audio in any environment.
• Electrical Converters – If you’re travelling to a country that uses a different type of electrical plug, make sure you pack at least one electrical converter so that you can charge your smartphone, notebook and other gadgets. WorldStandards.eu has a great guide to electrical plugs and sockets that covers most countries.
• Camera – You’re covered in this respect if you have a smartphone, but if not, you’ll want to invest in a good point and shoot camera before you go. Nikon’s Coolpix cameras and Canon’s PowerShot range are both easy to use, cheap and well made.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

HolidayPackingList.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.ca and amazon.co.uk.

HolidayPackingList.com may be compensated for any bookings made through Agoda.com, Booking.com, Skyscanner.com, WorldNomads.com, GAdventures.com and any other commercial travel organisation featured on this website.

Travel Essentials You Need to Pack For Your Next Trip

If you buy something through my links, I may earn a commission .

Heading on a spring break trip? I’ve put together a list of all the essentials you need to bring on your getaway!

An obvious for beach trips are a neutral cover up like this crochet one and a comfortable bikini like the ZAFUL Women’s Tie Knot Front Spaghetti Strap High Cut Bikini Set Swimsuit .

Keep you things organized with some of these travel cases! They have ones for jewelry/accessories, toiletries, makeup, you name it!

Make sure your skin is nice and hydrated and protected from the sun. Use a sunscreen like the Super Goop Glow Screen and hydrate your lips with Laneige lip balm.

After a long day in the sun, use an ice roller on your face for the ultimate relaxation. Also, pack a makeup eraser! It’s an easy way to only need to bring one thing to remove your makeup everyday of your trip.

For everyday accessories, shop these neutral flip flops, sunglasses, and a hat. All of these can be thrown into a beach bag and worn every day of your vacation.

Click the “SHOP HERE” button under the products you love, and you’ll be directed right to Amazon to purchase! Make sure to follow me on LTK and Amazon to keep up with all my latest finds! You can also sign up for my email list. It’s a super quick and easy way to get my posts sent right to your inbox each week.

Amazon Travel: Spring Break

• Smart Living
• Pack With Me

10 Items to Pack For Cabo San Lucas, According to a Travel Writer

In 'Pack With Me,' influencers and editors give us a rundown of their travel must-haves and a few travel hacks to go along with them. For this installment, a writer shares what essentials are in her suitcase for a trip to Cabo San Lucas.

If your social media timeline is anything like mine, it seems everyone is in Mexico . From girls-only trios eating and drinking their way through CDMX to spring breakers taking feet-first dives in cenotes in Tulum, people have jump started summertime behavior across the border. I, too, found myself searching for the sun in Cabo San Lucas , where the desert meets at the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. This region of Baja California has loads of vacation activities: whale watching from seaside hotels (humpback whales turn this area into their aquatic playground from December to April); wandering the quaint streets of downtown San José del Cabo, which is filled with vibrant shops of artisanal tequilas, Mexican folk art, " alebrijies " and embroidered textiles; trekking the Los Cabos canyon terrain; or sailing along the endless coastline in a party catamaran. However you want to experience Cabo, here's an essential items list for every adventure that awaits.

Best Packing Tips for Cabo San Lucas

During its high season months (October to May), the weather can peak at 80s Farenheit and dip to 70s Farenheit. Yes, that's pretty warm but I still like traveling with layers. I always bring a classic jean or olive or tan khaki jacket that marries well with anything plus a stylish cotton or canvas tote that won't get weighed down with spare items (big scarves or a light sweatshirt). The beauty of Cabos San Lucas is that in four days you can experience everything from the canyons to the coast. Pack resort wear, swimsuits, athleisure, and flowy dresses so you can interchange your looks with ease.

I know you haven't even landed yet but Mexican's artisan rich culture will have you searching for space to squeeze in many of the embroidered and hand painted souvenirs that will surely spice up any space back home. Even a small-batch bottle of tequila will upgrade your bar cart. To ensure the safety of these items, be prepared to carefully wrap and bring them on the plane (except for the tequila if it's not bought at duty-free). Bring an extra bag , preferably collapsible, so that your vacation goodies will travel back unbroken.

Speaking of tequila, I've long wanted a bottle of Clase Azul Reposado (which comes in a distinctive ceramic white decanter with blue flourishes). Even though the Los Cabos region does not produce tequila or mezcal (that's done on the mainland in Jalisco, Mexico), Clase Azul is only sold in two boutique outposts in Los Cabos . The only other place is at Los Cabos International Airport but it's not duty free, which means it must go in your carry-on. If you have a direct flight to your destination, you're good. However, if your flight connects, you must check the luggage after your first leg.

Keep reading for more travel tips and a packing list for your trip to Cabo San Lucas.

Best Travel Tips for Cabo San Lucas

Much like any popular destination, location matters. Depending on your comfortability with walking and exploring a city like a local, staying within a mile or two of the arts district in downtown San José del Cabo will give you the best of both worlds: modern restaurants, eclectic shops and plenty of beach.

Since I live in a concrete jungle, I wanted a front row seat to Cabo's geological wonders: the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. The estimated three-story high granite formations are easily accessible by water and several catamarans and yachts that offer daily trips. However, I opted for a hotel with the Arch in its backyard. Whether from its 360 rooftop bar or my double balcony suite, the ME Cabo by Meliá offered unobstructed vistas of the Arch and ocean from sunrise to sunset.

The hotel, about 45 minutes from the airport, offers transfers through Meliá Transportation, so I didn't worry about navigating taxis or Ubers. Once I arrived at the property, I was assured that if I left anything at home, I was steps away from several bustling shops near the marina and Playa El Medano. But because I had been to Cabo before, I knew exactly what I needed and I'm sharing all the essentials for a little Mexican vacay, ahead.

A Must Have Yacht Ready Fit

Farm Rio Pink Banana Leaves Jumpsuit ($285)

When I wanted an up-close look at the Arch, I booked an evening cruise through Cabo Yacht Charters . Watching the sun dip into the ocean is a view that never gets old in my book. Still, my flight from New York City nearly made me miss the boat's departure. By the time I arrived at my hotel, I had about 10 minutes to change before heading to the marina.

Luckily my Farm Rio jumpsuit was colorful and wrinkle free, also the fabric's weight didn't billow too much in the wind once the yacht hit its high speed. Bonus: it looked chic whether I was barefoot on the deck or with heels back on the marina.

A Must Have Skincare Essential

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Rehydrating Mask ($45)

I learned this travel hack from a former colleague who's a respected beauty influencer ( Hey Julee !). On flights that are four or more hours, I slather this overnight mask to give my very dry skin an extra boost of moisture. At night, the restorative oils are a much needed hug for my skin after being in direct sunlight.

A Must Have Eyewear Essential

Anthropologie Blocked Cat-Eye Sunglasses ($38)

I've never been a black-sunglasses-wearing girl. Give me brightly-colored or white hot frames and I'm in heaven. Sunnies can add just the pop an outfit needs while shielding your eyes from the sun's harmful rays (or concealing last night's flight of tequila – did I say that?).

A Must Have SPF Essential

Supergoop! Glow Stick ($30)

When my beautiful melanin-rich friend posted that Supergoop's Glow Stick was her go-to-sunscreen, I slid into her DMs and asked incredulously, "Really?" She wrote back, "Yes!" After years of using well-meaning products that leave a white, chalky cast, I made the switch and haven't looked back. Its size is so travel friendly that I carry two: one in my purse and the other in my toiletries bag.

A Must Have Fashion Essential

Uniqlo's Pleated Straight Pants ($30, originally $40)

While I was in Cabo, I wanted an experience that grounded me more in nature. Through my hotel's Destination Inclusive service, I was recommended for a group session with Sound Healing Los Cabos . The singing bowl therapy class would take place in the canyons nearby. Their only requirement was coming in comfortable clothes and an open spirit. I had both. The elastic band of my Uniqlo Pleated Straight Pants expanded with each deep breath I took, letting me feel chic and calm at the same time.

A Must Have Wellness Essential

Garden of Life Organics Women's Multi-vitamins ($23, originally $30)

In Mexico, tequila is the national drink and it's rude if you don't partake. I'm kidding, of course. However, if you're not used to tequila, it can leave a nasty headache in the morning. To avoid that, I drink a glass of water and take a multivitamin before bed. A friend taught me this hangover hack years ago and it does the trick.

A Must Have Footwear Essential

Birkenstock Arizonas ($50)

I broke my ankle a few years ago and while I have returned to heels, I haven't lost my love of Birkenstocks. It's now the first sandal I buy for the summer season. They are functional and chic. Even the waterproof slides are supportive and versatile; they can go from the pool to the bar. In Cabo, I brought my red ones but this summer I might switch to a pair in the papaya color.

A Must Have Haircare Essential

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner ($4)

For my coily, bleached-blond hair, I cannot take my chances on hotel shampoos and conditioners. My hair needs hydration and protection, especially after a day at the pool and/or beach. But I also need a little slip for my curls to bounce back. I found the perfect travel-size products to offer all three in Shea Moisture's Jamaican Black Castor Oil line. While not explicitly for dyed hair, it's color-safe and provides the moisture that keeps my hair healthy.

Lemlem Caftan ($355)

I'm conscious with my dollars and love supporting Black-owned and/or women-owned businesses as much as possible. I fell in love with Liya Kebede's Lemlem brand through her collaboration with H&M in 2021. Last year, I treated myself to one of her Ethiopian-made caftans and it's now an essential piece when I'm heading someplace warm and sunny. The woven material gives it a nice weight and paired with some sexy slides, I'm ready for a night out anywhere.

A Must Have Carry-On

Coolife Expandable Suitcase ($70)

I'm not saying the second reason I went to Cabo was for the tequila but did I tell you that one of the most known brands, Clase Azul, is only sold in the Los Cabos region in Mexico? I had every intention of bringing back a bottle and I needed a suitcase I could count on for this precious cargo. Enter the Coolife carry-on suitcase that not only expands 15 percent more than its 28-inch size but its hard shell ensures protection of fragile items. Let's just say my bottles arrived home in perfect condition.

Cori Murray is an award-winning editor and the former deputy editor of Essence. She's a respected journalist who covers entertainment, women's lifestyle, and travel for many publications. Cori has been featured as a cultural critic for several outlets.

• International Travel
• Travel Inspiration
• Travel Products

A Summer Capsule Wardrobe Will Simplify Your Packing Process

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Finding reliable clothing staples to rewear again and again helps us all to become more sustainable travelers—and refrain from overpacking. When building a summer travel capsule wardrobe, versatile and comfortable basics are key: Rather than packing a suitcase full of trendy items or statement outfits you'll only wear once, consider investing in basics you can pair with several outfits and wear from day to night. To lay the foundation, we've put together a list of top summer wardrobe essentials, whether you’re headed to a beach vacation in Mexico or are planning to eat your way through Italy . No matter where your upcoming travel plans take you, these are the pieces you’ll be glad you packed. From crisp white button-downs and lightweight linen dresses to walking sandals and packable beach totes, you can count on them to keep your packing list short and your outfit options long.

Below, 13 pieces to build a summer travel capsule wardrobe, with men's and women's styles from brands we love: Everlane, Lululemon, Banana Republic, and more. Keep scrolling to see them all or jump right to your item of choice.

Build your summer capsule wardrobe:

The breathable tank top, the perfect short, the linen pant, the classic button-down, the basic tee, the midi dress, the midi skirt, the exercise dress, the white sneaker, the walking sandal, the comfortable heel, the quality bathing suit, the packable tote.

Hot summer days mean you’ll need a few basic tanks. Ribbed tank tops are always a smart choice—they're both comfortable and flattering. If you want something that looks a little more put together with a pair shorts or a midi skirt, I wear this seamless bodysuit from Amazon constantly (it’s double-lined and I own it in multiple colors). Nike and Lululemon make some of our favorite performance tanks for men—they’re available in a variety of colors, too.

Finding a trusted pair of shorts can feel nearly impossible. We chose options that aren’t too short, so you can avoid unwanted chafing while still keeping cool. High-waisted, light wash options are ideal for hot summer days and pair well with just about any top in your suitcase.

For something a little more breezy, opt for a pair of linen pants. Whether I'm headed to a barbecue or lunch by the pool, I'm always gravitating toward linen in the warmer months. Lightweight, packable, and chic—it's the ultimate summer pant.

Every traveler needs a go-to tee . A basic T-shirt pairs well with almost any pair of shorts, linen pants, or skirt you pack this summer (sometimes I even throw one underneath a sleeveless dress). Cotton tees from Everlane, Skims, True Classic, and Cuts are breathable and lightweight, making them year-round staples for every type of packing list . No matter where I'm headed, whether it's a beach trip in Miami or a cabin getaway in Vermont, I have at least two comfy tees in my weekender .

Along with a plain white tee, I never travel without a button-down —I wear these with denim, as a cover-up by the pool , or over a slip dress at night if it gets a little chilly. For something ultra lightweight, a linen button-down will keep you cool and covered.

One of the most fun items to pack for summer: midi dresses . Staple pieces like this rib tank dress from Buck Mason and Abercrombie's linen blend dress are always smart options, but for something with a little more flare, I’m eyeing colorful picks from Lulus, Farm Rio, and Banana Republic. Whether you’re headed to a dinner party or want to explore a new city in style, these dresses scream summer and are easy to throw on with any pair of sandals.

Equally elegant and comfortable, a midi skirt can be dressed up or down with a pair of low heels, sneakers, or sandals. A skirt like this elevates an otherwise simple look and can be reworn endlessly throughout a trip with any of your favorite tanks, tees, or blouses. We love these chic styles from Free People, Banana Republic, and Cuyana, but for something under $40, Amazon brand The Drop's high-waisted skirt is a great staple.

Ideal for active travelers and especially hot destinations, exercise dresses are supportive enough for hikes and workout classes, while doubling as a cute daytime outfit. I don't always work out on a trip, but when I do, a sporty yet feminine exercise dress is the way to go—I'll wear one for a morning walk and still feel put together enough for breakfast at the hotel and whatever comes next. For practicality and comfort, I love ones that have built-in shorts underneath, like the Outdoor Voices style.

When it comes to essential shoes, every traveler needs a crisp pair of white sneakers . It’s always my most-worn shoe on every trip, especially when there’s a walking tour on the itinerary. Some of our team's favorite comfortable white sneakers come from Nike, Lululemon, and Adidas, with men’s and women’s sizes available for each.

Summer sandals can be a tricky shoe to purchase: You want a pair that can withstand a good amount of walking without causing blisters, but that still leaves you looking put together. These options below from Rothy's, Olukai, Birkenstock, and Teva can take you from the pool to lunch to sightseeing around town. Comfortable, versatile, and packable, a good walking sandal is simply a must.

For those summer nights when you need something a little more elevated than your favorite pair of sandals, a comfortable heel is a must-have. Black, ivory, or nude heels match just about any midi dress you toss in your carry-on . The height of these heels is just right—high enough to wear to any destination weddings or special events you're attending, but low enough to actually dance the night away in. Bonus points for block heels and mules—both styles are easier to walk in and provide decent stability on uneven ground.

No matter where I’m headed—beach vacation or not—I always pack a bathing suit . You can't go wrong with a supportive one-piece or high-waisted set. Some of our favorite men's swim trunks are from Todd Snyder and Lacoste, but we have plenty more options where that came from.

A packable tote bag that you can bring to the beach, shopping, or to the hotel pool will always come in handy. When I'm low on suitcase space, I prefer one that can lay completely flat—like Rothy's Lightweight Tote. These roomy, beachy bags all fit a day's worth of essentials, including a beach towel , water bottle, and lots of sunscreen .

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The Best Travel Mugs to Put at the Top of Your Packing List

By Tyler Chin

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As we become more conscious of our impact on the environment, many of us are quickly looking for ways to lessen our carbon footprint. One easy way is to ditch the disposable coffee cups at your favorite cafe (or even better) supply your own coffee, and bring it on the go. Because we know nobody likes a lukewarm brew (iced or hot—there is no in-between), we wanted to ensure that you’re only sipping out of one of the best travel mugs around.

The Best Travel Mugs, According to GQ

• The Best Travel Mug, Overall : Fellow Carter Slide Mug , $30
• The Best-Designed Travel Mug : Miir 360 Traveler , $28
• The Best Travel Mug with a Handle : Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Mug , $33
• The Best Jumbo-Sized Travel Mug : Brumate Toddy XL Mug , $40
• The Best Wide-Mouth Travel Mug : Kinto Travel Tumbler , $29
• The Best Barista-Approved Travel Mug : KeepCup , $30

Because, if you’re anything like us, you may wish you could have a 24/7 caffeine IV. Sadly, that’s not a thing, but the best travel mugs make it so that you never have to be without the cup of Joe. To find the options worthy of your bean juice, we tested and reviewed a handful of models to ensure that your sweet caffeination would be good from the first sip to the last—no matter how long it takes you to finish your bevy. Here’s what the competition boiled down to and which travel mugs are best suited for which kind of person.

The Best Travel Mug, Overall: Fellow Carter Slide Mug

Carter Slide Mug

From its cult-favorite electric kettle to the newly released drip coffee maker of our dreams, Fellow’s been big on coffee gear since the brand first stepped on the scene in 2013. One of its best products is its Carter mug, which won a Specialty Coffee Association award in 2021 for best coffee design. The double-wall vacuumed mug keeps everything nice and warm inside for 12 hours, while the ceramic lining ensures no metal flavors leech into your drink (subsequently, it keeps drinks cold for a full day if that’s more your jam). The matte exterior—which comes in a wide selection of colors—has a grippy texture that’s a pleasure to hold.

The original Carter mug had a regular screw-top lid, which housed a splash guard, preventing any liquid from ending up on your face if you were trying to take a sip and suddenly got jolted. We’re much bigger fans of the slide lid, which slips open with a quick and easy motion of the thumb, though it is a tad annoying having to disassemble it to clean it properly. It’s also completely spill-proof, which we’ve tested through the many times we’ve tossed a full cup of coffee into our bags and ended up with a dry laptop.

The Best-Designed Travel Mug: Miir 360 Traveler

360 Traveler

Here’s a huge first-world problem: having to rotate your cup seemingly forever to find the opening to grab a sip. Miir’s 360 Traveler combats this by turning the entire circumference of the lid into an opening for sipping. All you have to do is depress the center button and freely sip from wherever you damn well please. Ingenious—we know. Its slim build lets it sit comfortably in most, if not all, car cupholders, and it’ll keep your drink at your desired temperature without having to worry about outside factors—like if you left your hot coffee in an ice-cold car for a couple of hours or vice versa. And if this lid doesn’t suit your fancy, the body is compatible with a number of other Miir toppers, like a regular twist-off or a straw option.

The Best Travel Mug with a Handle: Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Mug

Hydro Flask

Stainless Steel Reusable Mug

Imagine your regular at-home mug, but primed and prepped to take a beating. Hydro Flask’s insulated mug is great for daily sipping, keeping your drinks hot, and being easy to clean. It’s one of the most durable travel mugs we’ve tried, something that the brand has carried across all of its drinkware options. The no-slip exterior is a nice touch, though we’re sure you’ll mostly be holding it from the handle. We also like how smoothly liquids flow through the lid so that you can chug that 8 a.m. coffee long before you’ve made it to the office.

The Best Jumbo-Sized Travel Mug: Brumate Toddy XL Mug

This isn’t just another big dumb cup . Brumate’s Toddy XL has been perfected to help you always keep your big gulps of cold or hot beverages with you. The extra-long handle is a pleasure to hold and makes it easy to hold such a large-format container. If you were to drop this, you could rest easy knowing that none of your contents would spill onto the floor.

The Best Wide-Mouth Travel Mug: Kinto Travel Tumbler

Travel Tumbler

Kinto’s array of minimalist tableware and lifestyle gear makes it a winner in the looks department. But functionally? Yeah, we’re big fans of the brand for that, too—especially with this low-key travel tumbler. The sleek container features a tapered lid that makes it easy to grasp, while the thin lip is just a pleasure to drink from, allowing drinks to waterfall seamlessly into your mouth. The wide mouth of the tumbler makes this great for use as an iced coffee mug because you’re more easily able to add ice, but no matter what temperature your drink is, it’ll stay that way for hours and hours.

The Best Barista-Approved Travel Mug: KeepCup

Brew Cork Reusable Coffee Cup

Imagine your regular disposable coffee cup, but fashion it out of glass and a reusable lid, and you’ll have KeepCup. The brand was founded by Australian cafe owners as a way to combat overflowing landfills teeming with single-use cups. KeepCup was designed with baristas in mind so that they could use these containers in lieu of disposable options—it sits perfectly under an espresso machine’s group head (where the espresso comes out from) and is sized to replicate industry-standard cup sizes. The lid is splash-proof, not spill-proof, and comes with a cork band that’ll make sure you don’t burn your hands on your hot cuppa.

3 More Travel Mugs We Love

Yeti knows how to keep things cold (just check out its coolers ), and it’s also great at keeping things hot. Why would anyone want a stupidly cute cup that’s this small? Maybe someone likes to use a moka pot on their travels, or they managed to haul their whole espresso setup onto the backroads. We don’t care why someone would want to use this, only that we absolutely love how dainty this thing is and what a pleasure it makes drinking espresso out of. Also, we found that it’s compatible with Yeti’s 10-ounce tumbler lids just to keep the mosquitoes away from your joe.

Temperature Control Travel Mug

Ember’s temperature-controlled mugs are a godsend for folks who take forever to finish their coffee. The same science is applied to its travel mug, which keeps your drink at the exact temperature you set—between 120 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit—for up to two hours. Its leak-proof lid prevents any unwanted accidents, and it’s fully submersible in water up to one meter in case it accidentally takes a plunge in some liquid.

For a cheap travel mug that doesn’t suck, RTIC’s is able to keep your bevvies warm and securely inside the container. They’re fully dishwasher safe, which is a plus, and they come in over a dozen colors to match your vibe.

What to Look for in a Travel Mug

Size : Tall? Grande? Venti?! We’re ditching the Starbucks lingo to bring you a variety of travel mug sizes to accommodate however much coffee (or tea or whatever) you tend to drink on the regular. If you’re chugging joe like it’s a Big Gulp, go big with something like the Brumate Toddy XL to make fewer trips to the coffee pot. But if all you need is a quick shot (of espresso) or a moderately sized latte, then maybe something smaller like a KeepCup or dainty Yeti will get you where you need to go. Also note that if you’re pouring a small beverage, like a cortado, into a much larger container, that beverage will cool down faster because of all the empty space, regardless of the vacuum insulation.

Leakproof : We know there are a lot of klutzes around us, so we want to make sure your beverage stays exactly where it should be: in your mouth or your mug. A good travel mug should be leak- and spill-proof, but we made exceptions for the KeepCup, which we think is a great way to opt out of using disposable cups at cafes without disrupting a barista’s routine for making drinks.

Easy to Clean : Not all travel mugs need to be dishwasher safe, but in the hopes that you’re regularly cleaning your container, we made sure to find easy travel mugs to give a thorough cleaning. The last thing you need is built-up gunk in your travel mug to harbor bacteria, leading to sickness or just an overall nasty drinking experience.

How We Tested

We found a variety of travel mugs that were popular with reviewers and tested them to see how they performed with daily use over a prolonged period. We evaluated travel mugs based on their durability, ability to keep beverages hot, and overall aesthetic to determine which options were best for various people. Finally, we assessed how easily these travel mugs came apart to give a thorough cleaning and how long-term use impacted their performance.

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I Just Spent a Week in London, and These 10 Amazon Finds Were at the Top of My Packing List — From $10

Including Apple AirTags, Baggu bags, and Reebok tennis shoes.

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

It doesn’t matter where I’m headed in the world, I always have two non-negotiables when traveling somewhere new: I have to show up to the airport hours in advance (even with TSA pre-check) and I have to overpack — shocking, I know, but I never want to be without something important. So before embarking on my first trip to London, England, I knew there was only one place to find everything I'd need for a successful week-long adventure across the pond: Amazon. 

From leisurely strolling through Notting Hill and admiring the bundles of blooms at Columbia Road Flower Market to reenacting The Beatles' iconic "Abbey Road" album cover, these 10 Amazon finds made my holiday go as smoothly as possible. My curated list of travel essentials includes a range of items, like comfortable sneakers , portable chargers , and crossbody bags . After all, it's my job as an Amazon shopping writer to know where the retailer's best travel accessories are. Keep scrolling to see what made my London packing list. 

Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

The Airbnb I stayed at was a 30-minute Tube ride to central London, so I knew the only times I would be there was when I woke up in the morning and went to sleep at night. Because of this, I brought a spacious bag that could not only carry all of my belongings, but also be a fun accessory to add to my outfits. This Baggu crescent bag checked off both boxes thanks to its sleek exterior, roomy interior, and adjustable strap that I could wear around my shoulder, or across my chest. And, it’s made with a nylon material that’s machine washable, so I didn’t have to worry about it getting dirty throughout the day. 

Anrabess Two-piece Lounge Set

With a seven-hour plane ride to Heathrow and another seven-hour trip back to NYC, comfort was at the top of my mind for my travel outfits. This is why I opted for a two-piece lounge set to keep me cozy from checking into my flight to checking into my Airbnb. This soft and stretchy set comes with a quarter-zip top that you can easily throw over a T-shirt, and drawstring pants that you can tighten or loosen as needed. Plus, there are 21 colors to choose from, including fun neutrals like apricot beige, caramel brown, and sky blue. 

Apple AirTag

We’ve all heard horror stories of someone’s checked luggage not making it to their final destination, and they have no way of finding its location. So this wouldn’t be the case for me during my vacation, I grabbed a flight attendant-trusted Apple AirTag to stick in every bag I brought. The gadget comes with a built-in tracker that connects to the Find My App on my iPhone so I can see its location in real-time. And if your belongings do get lost, there’s an option to ping the AirTag to sound an alert or set it in lost mode until it’s found. 

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Walking Shoes

Like any major city, London calls for a lot of walking. And since I already get an above-average step count living in New York City, I brought my tried and true Reebok sneakers. The classic shoes feature white leather exteriors that match everything, and they’re extremely comfortable thanks to their supportive insoles. I’ve been through a lot of shoes that leave my feet and heels with blisters, but never with these shoes. You’ll definitely want to snag a pair while they’re on sale. 

Bagail Eight-piece Packing Cube Set

I outed myself earlier, but it’s true. I’m guilty of overpacking. I wanted to make the most of my luggage space for this trip since I was traveling for a full week, so I snagged a set of packing cubes to help keep me organized. The handy eight-piece set came with various bags in different sizes to separate my clothing, undergarments, shoes, and makeup. It made it so easy to keep my bag organized throughout the week, and for once, I didn’t have to sit on my suitcase to get it to zip shut.

Iniu Portable Charger

Between using Google Maps to figure out where I was going, my camera to take photos, and Apple Pay to quickly buy things, I was constantly using my phone in London. I knew I needed a portable charger with how long I’d be out during the day, and the ones I already owned rarely lasted long enough to produce even half a charge. So after glimpsing through the 77,000 five-star reviews of this best-selling portable charger , I decided to give it a try. The charger lasted for days on one single charge and recharged my phone fast . I 10/10 recommend this for anyone traveling this summer. 

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Speaking of staying out and about all day, I wanted to make sure I had a reusable bottle of water on me to stay hydrated. And even though I have plenty of options on deck at home, my favorite as of late for on-the-go travel has been the best-selling Owala bottle . Made with an insulated design, the stainless steel bottle keeps my water ice cold for hours. And, it comes with a covered lid that locks into place so there are no potential leaks or spills. Choose from 16- to 40-ounce options, and 22 vibrant colors. 

Columbia Arcadia II Jacket

In case you didn’t already know, London is notorious for rainy weather. Since I didn’t have room to pack an umbrella, I made sure to bring a waterproof jacket. This Columbia rain jacket is made with a lightweight fabric that is easy to layer over a shirt without getting hot, and its compact design makes it a breeze to pack into your suitcase — and in a tote when you’re on the go. Plus, it features a drawstring hood, built-in pockets, and a zipper to ensure you stay dry.

Mrsdry Silicone Travel Bottles

I’m pretty particular when it comes to using provided hotel toiletries. Certain items just don’t work with my sensitive skin or fine hair, so I’ve been adding my favorite moisturizers, body washes, and conditioners to this set of travel bottles for some time now. The four bottles are designed with a silicone material and a lid that locks into place, so you don’t have to worry about unwanted leaks. Each bottle is 3 ounces in size and comes with a clear bag to meet all TSA guidelines. 

European Travel Plug Adapter

Last but certainly not least, this travel plug adapter kept my phone, headphones, and smartwatch running throughout the entire week. If you’re headed to Europe anytime soon, you’ll quickly learn that they don’t use the same outlets as we do in America, so it’s essential to bring an adapter if you plan on using any electronics. This popular pick came with three plug-ins in one, so I could charge multiple devices at once. I truly wouldn’t have made it through my trip without this.

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