travel list pack

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

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

29 Published Articles 3077 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

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

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 >>  📋

General Packing Tips & Tricks

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.

Was this page helpful?

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.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

• Hotels & Resorts
• Travel Guides
• Credit Cards
• Airplane Seat Switch Etiquette
• American Airlines Baggage Fees & Allowance
• Amex Centurion Lounges
• Best & Worst Days to Fly
• Best & Worst Days to Fly & Travel for Christmas & New Year's 2024
• Best & Worst Times to Fly
• Best Days & Times to Book Flights
• Best Seats On a Plane
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Flights
• Capital One Lounges
• Chase Sapphire Lounges
• Delayed, Lost, or Damaged Luggage (Steps to Take)
• Delta Baggage Fees & Allowance
• How to Avoid Airline Flight Delays & Cancellations in 2024
• How to Cancel an American Airlines Flight
• How to Cancel a Delta Air Lines Flight
• How to Earn Delta SkyMiles
• How to Earn United MileagePlus Miles
• How to Find Cheap Flight Deals
• How to Find Cheaper Summer Flights for 2024
• How to Get Through TSA Airport Security Faster
• How to Use Google Flights
• When to Book Christmas Flights - Best Travel Days for 2024
• When to Book Thanksgiving Flights - Best Travel Days for 2024
• United Airlines Baggage Fees & Allowance
• What to Do if Your Airline Cancels or Delays Your Flight
• Worst Seats on a Plane
• Best Atlanta Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Denver Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Los Angeles Airport (LAX) Car rental Companies
• Best Miami Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Orlando Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Phoenix Airport Car Rental Companies
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Car Rentals
• How to Find Cheap Car Rentals
• Best All-Inclusive Cruise Lines
• Can You Bring Food, Alcohol, & Snacks on a Cruise Ship?
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Cruises
• Where Can I Cruise Without a Passport?
• What is Cruise Ship Tendering?
• What is Port Side on a Cruise Ship?
• Best Economy & Budget-Friendly Hotel Brands
• Best Mid-Tier Hotel Brands
• Best Websites to Book Cheap Hotels
• Choice Privileges Loyalty Program Review
• Hilton Honors Loyalty Program Review
• Hostel Booking Tips
• Hotels.com Booking Guide
• How to Find Cheap Hotel Deals
• IHG One Rewards Loyalty Program Review
• Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Program Review
• World of Hyatt Loyalty Program Review
• Wyndham Rewards Loyalty Program Review
• Best Travel Products
• Destinations
• Family Travel
• Beach Vacation Packing List
• Best Beaches in Florida
• Best Ticket Websites for Tours & Activities
• Best Travel Tips
• Global Entry Program Guide
• How to Check Your Passport Application Status
• How to Make a Travel Budget
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo at Home
• Passport Processing Times - Current Wait in 2024
• Summer Travel Survey & Trends 2024
• Sustainable Travel Survey 2023
• TSA PreCheck Program Guide
• Travel Insurance Buying Guide
• Ultimate Travel Packing List
• Travel Credit Card Reviews
• Travel Credit Card Strategies & Tips
• Amex Platinum Card Benefits
• Amex Gold Card Benefits
• Best Starter Travel Credit Cards for Beginners
• Capital One Venture Card Benefits
• Capital One Venture X Card Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Benefits
• How to Use CardMatch
• Ink Business Unlimited Card Benefits

Get The Vacationer Newsletter

Get highlights of the most important news delivered to your email inbox

Advertiser Disclosure

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure : Jones-Dengler Marketing, LLC via The Vacationer is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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.

American Airlines Baggage Fees, Allowance, & Policy – How to Avoid the Expenses in 2024

Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees, Allowance, & Policy (2024)

Beach Vacation Packing List for 2024 – What to Pack for Your Next Family Trip This Summer

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 .

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best charleston tours.

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Amanda Norcross April 4, 2024

The 10 Best Denver Tours

Lyn Mettler April 4, 2024

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Nicola Wood April 3, 2024

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Amanda Norcross April 3, 2024

The Best Checked Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

The Best Venice Tours

Lyn Mettler and Marisa Méndez April 2, 2024

The Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Amanda Norcross April 2, 2024

U.S. News Best Bed & Breakfasts Rankings

U.S. News Hotels Editors April 2, 2024

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Rachael Hood , Erin Evans , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson March 29, 2024

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

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

• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - March 24, 2024
• Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024
• Fashion Advice: How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe - February 20, 2024

No Funny Business

The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.

Thanks For Reading! — James

Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

Related Reads

Helpful Travel Tips & Articles , Packing

Fashion Advice: How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe

Fashion advice to help you look like a local when visiting Europe.

The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews

A list of my favorite travel backpacks for every travel style.

Packing , Product Reviews

Best Travel Shoes — Fashionable & Comfortable Shoes for Traveling

The ultimate guide to the best travel shoes that are both stylish and comfortable.

Backpacking Europe Packing List — My Europe Travel Packing Guide

A comprehensive packing list and advice for budget backpacking and ultralight travel in Europe — including electronics, clothing, toiletries & accessories.

City Guides

Choosing travel insurance, travel packing lists, budget travel newsletter.

The best budget travel tips sent straight to your inbox.

Join My Journey

Europe travel tips, advertising & privacy policies.

TheSavvyBackpacker.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.

© 2010 - 2024 The Savvy Backpacker

Website Design by FHOKE

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.

You May Also Like

Best Black Friday And Cyber Monday Deals for Travelers

The Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing

22 Best Luggage Brands Of 2024 For Every Budget

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.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

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

Save and Pin for Later

Keep this ultimate vacation packing list for safekeeping, ready for your next getaway, by saving this article to one of your travel planning Pinterest boards.

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home » Packing Lists & Travel Gear » The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By an Expert Traveler!)

The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By an Expert Traveler!)

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveler, having a detailed international travel packing list for your checked bag can make all the difference in preparing for your trip. We’re going to go right back to basics, from looking at what travel bag is best, to what toiletries and medications you should carry, the best tech for travel and a capsule wardrobe that will make sure you are prepared for almost* any weather. 

From packing light, to the carry on essentials you need in your carry on bag,  these packing hacks are everything you need to get yourself ready to travel. Scroll down for the Ultimate Packing Checklist for Travel – complete with FREE Printable Travel Packing Checklist!

*Note: NOT for the Arctic/Antarctic Circles.. you’re definitely going to need some specialist stuff for those destinations!

Disclaimer: This very helpful post about the ultimate travel packing list including free travel checklist contains affiliate links, which means that should you click any of the links and make a purchase I may get a small commission at absolutely no cost to you . If you are trying to make sure you have everything you need for your big trip – which if you are here I presume you are – please consider using the links below. And you can read the legal stuff about it all in my Disclosure .

Packing a bag for travel can seem like a mammoth task, but we’ve put together this travel packing checklist to help you travel smarter. Whether you are packing for Europe, International travel or simply packing for vacation, the travel essentials listed in this post will make sure you are perfectly prepped for every adventure. It really is the Ultimate Packing List for practically all situations!

In This Post

• 1 The Travel Packing List Guide to the Right Type of Bag
• 2 The Best Tech for Travel
• 3 The Best in Travel Comfort
• 4 How to Pack a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel
• 5 What to Pack in your Travel Toiletries Kit Bag
• 6 What to Pack in your Travel Health/Medication Bag
• 7.1 Travel Security

The Travel Packing List Guide to the Right Type of Bag

• Rolling Luggage – Traditional, the stuff your family holidays were made of. A wheeled suitcase is not the enemy that hard core travelers tend to make out. If you are traveling in a western country/countries where the roads are paved and the buildings have elevators, a wheeled bag is perfectly adequate for your travels. Just don’t buy one that’s too big or you’ll end up packing more than you need! Our recommendation: Samsonite Luggage Ripstop 30 Inch Wheeled Duffel
• 4-Wheels Can Be Better Than 2! – Depending on how much luggage you plan to take, your bag can become heavy quickly. If you know there will be lots of walking with your bag where ever you are traveling to, consider purchasing a case with 4 wheels that will reduce the pressure required on your wrist from dragging it. And can effortlessly glide by your side. Our recommendation: Samsonite Lifttwo Hardside Spinner
• Duffel Bag – Simple, Lightweight and Durable, it’s just like carrying a sports bag! They’re also great to have as a ‘extra bag option’ as they generally fold up quite small and can be used for the ‘extra stuff’ and souvenirs you may acquire on your travels. Our recommendation: Shacke Duffel XL
• Wheeled Backpack – If you’ll be going through different types of terrain, or switching from airports to cobblestones, having a bag with the option to roll it or carry it like a backpack or duffel is really handy. Our recommendation: Blackwolf Grand Tour
• Travel Backpack – You know you’re a traveler once you have bought a backpack. (I resisted for years!) But now my backpack is practically part of me, and perfect for traveling in Asia, South and Central America and Africa. Our recommendation: Mountain Top 50l + 5l with Raincover
• Carry-On – This one requires incredible discipline and prevents the risk of ever over-packing. But if you can get away with traveling with only a carry on pack you will save time at airports, save on checked baggage fees, never run the risk of the airline losing your bag and won’t do too much damage to your back from carrying a heavy pack during long term travel! Our recommendation: Osprey Porter Travel Backpack 46l

The Best Tech for Travel

• Smart Phone & phone chargers: Everyone has one. Perfect for keeping up with your friends and family back home via social media, using maps to navigate around your destination, and taking quick photos. Our recommendation: IphoneX , Google Pixel 4 (for those that love a good portrait mode. Selfie anyone?!) or if you’re Samsung Devotee, the Samsung Galaxy S20 is the latest and greatest.
• A Good Camera + Spare Memory Card : A ‘good’ camera is entirely subjective and will depend on how serious about photography you are and your technical skill level. And don’t forget a spare memory card or two! Our recommendations: – If you’re after a cheap point and shoot you can’t go wrong with a Canon Powershot – If you’re after a big more punch but don’t want to learn how to use a DSLR the Lumix Fz70 is the perfect bridge camera. Lightweight, compact, x60 zoom. Read my full review here. – Moving onto a traditional DSLR, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II has been voted one of the best in its category and is in the middle of the range when it comes to expense, however traditional DSLRs are starting to be be replaced by mirrorless cameras and the Sony A6000 has been a photographers favorite for a number of years now. – And don’t forget a trusty GoPro for all those action sports and scuba diving you’ll be doing!
• A Drone: That’s right folks, a technology advances at record breaking rates, drones are getting better and better. Whilst the bigger drones (such as the DJI Phantom ) are great pieces of kit, they can be a bit bulky to carry around, particularly if you’re traveling solo. Our recommendation: The DJI Mavic 2 or the DJI Mavic Air (it’s my new favorite bit of travel gear!) Light and compact, it folds down to practically nothing and offers incredible control and tracking via the handset controls. And with falling prices you too can capture those incredible aerial shots that are rocking Instagram!
• Noise Cancelling Headphones: For planes, trains and automobiles, when you want to rock out to your favorite feel good tracks, but don’t want to annoy the life out of your fellow passengers, or listen to them spoil your you time! Our recommendations: When space is at a premium, in ear headphones are a must, but for those who love that over ear feeling, you cant go wrong with the Sennheiser PXC550 (read my full review here )
• Laptop: Due to my job revolving around a website, a laptop is an absolute necessity for me, but it really isn’t necessary for other travelers on short trips. If however you a planning to be away for more than a month, a laptop is a great for watching movies or some serious web surfing. For example, i much prefer to look at flights and compose important emails on a big screen. And I may be slightly addicted to a few TV shows which I stream behind a VPN … Our recommendation: MacBook Air
• Kindle or e reader
• Portable Wifi Hotspot: If you are a digital nomad or simply need to get some work done from a reliable internet connection whilst traveling, a personal wifi hotspot device is just what you need. Read our Wifi Hotspot Review & Comparison Guide to find your perfect match.
• Adapter Plug: Different countries = Different power adapters required. Grab a Multi-Adapter and make sure you’ve got all bases covered. There’s nothing worse than having tech you can’t charge! Our recommendation: Travel Adapter with USB Ports
• Power Bank: Power banks are great way to keep your phone and camera alive whilst out and about! Our recommendation: Anker 2000 Power Bank
• Tech Tacos: With travel tech comes lots of cables – for charging, syncing there can be wires everywhere. Keep them organized with cute Tech Tacos!
• Travel Speakers : Because sometimes you need a little music to get a party started.

The Best in Travel Comfort

• Travel Pillow: If you haven’t heard of the TRLT Travel Pillow , you are seriously missing out. I always struggle with traditional neck pillows as they don’t provide enough support for my giraffe like neck. Soft and Strong it is scientifically proven to provide incredible neck support and possibly be the best thing to ever happen to naps! Better still, if folds down to nothing and will take up way less space in your bag than the traditional neck wrap.
• Eye Mask & Ear Plugs : Slap on your eye mask. Put in your ear plugs. Block out the light, block out the sound and drift of to sleep.
• Tangle Teezer: The. Best. Hairbrush. Ever.   I bought one of these almost 3 years ago now and it goes everywhere with me. Compact and in its own protective case, it glides through my long hair with ease – and get rid of knots without ripping the hair from my head. I don’t know how I ever lived without one before.
• Foldable Water Bottle : A foldable water bottles is perfect for filling up from the water fountains after airport security, or folding down and packing into your bag after you’ve finished a hike. Read our full comparison post on the best travel water bottles here .
• Travel Moisturizer & Lip Balm : Sometimes your body just needs a little help when traveling through different climates, altitudes and time zones!
• A pen: for filling in forms or jotting down notes. You should always have a pen in your bag whether you are traveling or not!

How to Pack a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel

This is predominately a packing list for women, and clothing items and the amount of clothes you need to pack will be variable depending on your destinations and how long you intend on traveling for, but a skeleton capsule wardrobe would include the following: Psst. keep scrolling down for my free printable packing list for travel to help plan your trip.

• Lightweight clothing that can be layered
• 1x Longsleeved shirt(s)
• 1x Sweaters or fleece jacket (for cold weather destinations)
• 4x T shirts and tank tops (take a couple that have sleeves to be respectful of the culture you are visiting)
• 2x Travel Pants and/or shorts
• 2x Dresses and/or skirts
• 1 x pair of jeans (good for travel days/airports and planes)
• 1x Packable Rain jacket, windbreaker and/or a mini umbrella
• 1x Sports Bra
• 1x Yoga Pants & Sports Top
• 1x Pajamas / sleepwear
• Underwear, Bras & Socks – wool socks are best for hiking, pop socks for day to day wear.
• 3x Pairs of Travel Shoes: 1x Comfortable walking shoes / athletic shoes, 1x flip flops (for shared shower facilities) and 1x pair of dress shoes /going out shoes. If you find yourself packing more than 3 pair of shoes, be ruthless and decide if you really need them!
• Sunglasses and glasses case
• Jewelry – pack your favorite pieces in this Travel Jewellery Organizer
• Hat or sun visor
• 2x Bandana / Scarf – can be worn in the hair/over the head/as a wrap and as a scarf
• 2-3 Swimsuit / Bikini (I like one full swimsuit for watersports/scuba diving, and two different style bikinis to alternate to avoid tan lines. I know, very vain of me!)
• And – my personal pièce de résistance – is my super soft cashmere wrap . It can be dressed up, dressed down, is perfect for an extra layer (both comfortable and warm) on the plane or for covering your shoulders at places of worship. It’s the best travel companion and comes in lots of colors! IMO a good ‘wrap’ is an essential wardrobe staple for any point of your life – but should definitely be included in a vacation checklist!

What to Pack in your Travel Toiletries Kit Bag

This is the ultimate packing list for toiletries and is the same for each and every trip you take!

• Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Toothbrush Cover & Dental Floss
• Hand Sanitizer
• Sunscreen & Aftersun
• Shampoo, Conditioner & Shower Gel (if you’re not likely to be staying in fancy hotels where this is provided)
• Wet Wipes /Make Up Remover Wipes/Face wash
• Tweezers + Mini Mirror
• Travel Towel
• Hair Bobbles/Bobby Pins
• Feminine Hygiene Products

What to Pack in your Travel Health/Medication Bag

• Any prescription medications – with the pertinent information from the box cut out and kept with the medication. This is mandatory for an international travel pack list.
• Travel First Aid Kit : A travel first aid kit will usually contain band aids, antiseptic wipes,  bandages, gauze, small scissors and tape/pins. An invaluable addition to a travel packing list if I do say so myself.
• Imodium ( for any tummy upsets from new foods)
• Paracetamol (for pain & fever relief)
• Anti-inflammatory Medication (for when your muscles hurt after that hike or had days trekking)
• Bug Spray /Insect Repellent
• Cold and Flu Tablets /Lozenges
• Antihistamines/Allergy medication
• Motion sickness Tablets
• Sleeping Pills (if required)
• Antibacterial Ointment
• Region specific medication (ie. prophylactics/anti-malarials if traveling to an affected part of the world) Check the malaria risk of a region here

Organizing Your Travel Documents

You’re not going to get far without these essential travel documents:

• Passport/visa(s) – Not sure if you need a travel visa? Check here .
• Personal ID/Student ID card – If you’re a student, some companies offer discount cards to help you get good deals while on the road.
• Cash and credit card(s) – Call your credit card companies before you travel to inform them of your travel and try to carry 1 debit card and 2 different credit cards in separate bags/pockets/travel wallet in case one gets stolen/damaged.
• Frequent flyer card(s) and other loyalty program card numbers (it’s best if you can find one program and stick with it instead of jumping between them – which is what I do!)
• Travel insurance information
• Reservations, itineraries or pre-printed boarding pass – try and keep an electronic copy of all documents too.
• Hotel and/or tour contact information
• Transportation tickets (plane, train, bus, car, etc.)
• Emergency contacts and important addresses

Travel Security

It is always a good idea to have a safe place/secret pocket where you can store important documents whilst you are traveling. Try also to book accommodation that either has an in -room safe (hotel) or lock box (for hostels). You could also look at the following travel safety products and decide if they are something you would utilize:

• Money Belt : A money belt is perfect for overnight train travel or long overland travel days where you are carrying all your worldly possessions
• RFID Blocking Travel Wallet : With the range of travel scams out there these days, simply walking past the wrong person could see your cards skimmed. Keep your passport and 1 credit card inside this RFID Blocking Travel wallet at all times.
• Cable Travel Lock : Personal combination locks are perfect for locking up your bag before checking it in, and having on you where your accommodation provides a locker but no way to lock it.
• Headlamp : A headtorch takes up very little space in your luggage and can save you from a multitude of pitch-black encounters!

And that’s a wrap folks. We hope we have answered all your questions about what to pack for a trip and I hope you have found these packing tips super helpful in getting ready for your next trip. If you’d like a bit more help, subscribe below to get my FREE Printable Travel Packing List (Plus more travelling tips and packing tips than you can shake a stick at!) to get you packing like a boss in no time!

This really is the ultimate packing list for international travel and comes with a free printable travel lists for packing at home – you’re welcome!

And if you liked this post, please tweet, pin and share – as always, click the P in the sharebar to the left for the full sized image!

And if you liked this travel essentials checklist, vacation checklist, vacation packing list (etc!) take a look at the other packing list for travel in this series:

• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List – keeping you and your care happy, entertained & healthy on the road
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List – packed full of ski essentials to help you have the best time on the piste
• How to Pack your Carry On Bag Like A Pro – this essential travel list and carry on packing guide is full of travel tips to make the most of those pesky weight and space restrictions!
• The Best Travel Backpacks for Female Travelers – built for a woman’s frame.

Hi There! Thanks for reading my post traveling list about The Ultimate Travel Packing List filled with packing essentials , travel kit list and a travel checklist !   I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here .

Saturday 22nd of February 2020

Thanks for posting this list. I nearly forgot a few things before I checked this!

Wednesday 9th of October 2019

What about a personal secure WiFi device? Or a VPN subscription? I’m concerned about using public WiFi when i travel. My carrier also indicated that my cell could not be used as a secure hotspot when out of the country.

Tuesday 17th of September 2019

what about a knife? dont u think it's really necessary? there're many things scissors cant deal with...

Vicki Garside

I personally do not see the need for a knife - and do not know of many people (unless traveling domestically and going camping/on an outdoor break) who travel with a knife, and as such have chosen not to include it.

a long list yet forgetting basics...what about a wrist watch??

I think wearing a watch is a very personal choice - and not something that should be dictated to people. I haven't worn one for years, as I always have my phone with me; and think this may be the case for many other people too.

Saturday 20th of July 2019

Awesome checklist! Thanks for this!

I like how you separated it into different lists.

You covered everything from a more easy-going relaxing trip to a little more outdoorsy, camping trip. You covered just about everything!

For your drone, have you ever tried the DJI Mavic 2? The original DJI Mavic is a great drone but they say that there have been some major upgrades to the newer version. I thought the camera was good in the Mavic but apparently, the Mavic 2 has some awesome new features and the camera is even clearer and can record in a higher resolution. It also is supposed to have a really awesome panoramic feature. Would love a review on that one!

I love how you've included bug spray too.

Thanks again for your awesome list, Vicki!

• Consulting Services
• Work with Me
• Accommodation Reviews
• Tour Company Reviews
• Transportation Reviews

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 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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…

Looking for Something?

Free e-book.

Follow me on:

Search hotels and more...

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

We are an independent publisher. Our reporters create honest, accurate, and objective content to help you make decisions. To support our work, we are paid for providing advertising services. Many, but not all, of the offers and clickable hyperlinks (such as a “Next” button) that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. The compensation we receive and other factors, such as your location, may impact what ads and links appear on our site, and how, where, and in what order ads and links appear. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, our site does not include information about every product or service that may be available to you. We strive to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, but some information may not be current. So, your actual offer terms from an advertiser may be different than the offer terms on this site. And the advertised offers may be subject to additional terms and conditions of the advertiser. All information is presented without any warranty or guarantee to you.

This page may include: credit card ads that we may be paid for (“advertiser listing”); and general information about credit card products (“editorial content”). Many, but not all, of the offers and clickable hyperlinks (such as a “Apply Now” button or “Learn More” button) that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. When you click on that hyperlink or button, you may be directed to the credit card issuer’s website where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer. Each advertiser is responsible for the accuracy and availability of its ad offer details, but we attempt to verify those offer details. We have partnerships with advertisers such as Brex, Capital One, Chase, Citi, Wells Fargo and Discover. We also include editorial content to educate consumers about financial products and services. Some of that content may also contain ads, including links to advertisers’ sites, and we may be paid on those ads or links.

For more information, please see How we make money .

The ultimate travel packing list: Everything to bring on your next trip

Signing up for credit cards through partner links earns us a commission. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Here’s our full advertising policy: How we make money .

There’s nothing worse than getting to the airport or arriving at your hotel, only to realize you’ve forgotten something important for your trip. But, those days of smacking your forehead in frustration are over with our Ultimate Travel Packing List . Pull up our list on your phone or print it out before every trip and never forget a packing essential again.

If you are choosing to travel now, amidst the current pandemic, what you pack becomes even more essential. There are a variety of health and safety items that will lessen your chances of catching or spreading the coronavirus amidst your travels — consider adding them all to your must-have list! Additionally, some countries are requiring negative COVID-19 tests and/or documentation verifying the good health of international travelers when they arrive.

Because of all this, packing may look a little different than what you’re used to. Keep track of everything you need in one place with our list!

Ultimate travel packing list

This checklist covers many of the items to consider packing when getting ready for a trip. While it is extensive, it doesn’t mean you need to bring everything on it. You probably won’t need to bring a suit and tie if you’re going on a casual beach getaway. There may also be items not on the list that you’ll want to have during your journey.

You can download a PDF version of the list here  — save it to your phone, download on a laptop or print it out.

Note: You’ll notice our packing checklist includes “medication.” Medication should only be brought as a precautionary measure if you are traveling and begin exhibiting coronavirus systems — some over-the-counter fever reducers and decongestants have been proven to treat mild symptoms. Do not travel if you are currently experiencing symptoms.

As a bonus to our list, keep reading for the best packing hacks that will make you an expert.

General packing tips and tricks

Here are the must-knows in the world of packing.

Ask yourself the basic questions

Before you even begin packing for a trip, there are a couple of questions you should consider that will make filling your suitcase a lot easier.

Where are you going? What’s the temperature? Are you going to rainy Seattle? Or, the deserts of Egypt?  Depending on the weather and climate, your suitcase will look a little different.

What are you doing on the trip? Is it a relaxing beach getaway or an adventure-filled hiking trip? Your activities have a significant impact on what you should bring. For example, here’s our packing list for visiting Disney .

How many days/nights are you staying? No one likes an over-packer and you don’t want to have to pay for a checked bag if you can avoid it.

Is there anything you don’t need to bring from home because it’ll be easy and accessible to get at your destination? Bringing your underwear is always a safe move, but if you’re staying at a hotel or resort, you can probably snag some toothpaste from the front desk for free.

In short, packing isn’t a one size fits all model, so be sure to consider the nitty-gritty of your trip before you begin.

Choose identifiable luggage

The last thing you want when you finally arrive at your destination is to be stuck at the airport searching through 100 basic, black suitcases at baggage claim.

Instead, choose luggage that you can spot from far away. Or, at the very least, pick a bright luggage tag that will make your bag stand out from the rest. (Bonus tip: Always have a luggage tag with your information in case your bag gets lost in transit!)

Consider using a packing app

If you’re the kind of person who likes a little more structure on top of a printable checklist, consider using an app designed specifically for helping with packing.

Make copies of your documents

It’s always a good idea to have copies of your most important documents. Worst case scenario, you’re stuck in a foreign country because you don’t have your boarding pass, passport or visa. That can be avoided when you bring extra copies of these with you and spread them out (in different bags) in case an item of luggage gets lost . Remember that many credit cards offer lost and delayed baggage insurance .

During a pandemic, it’s even more crucial to make copies of your documents. For example, if you’re traveling to a place that requires a negative COVID-19 test result, you don’t want to arrive at your destination only to find you left your negative test result on your kitchen counter at home. Make extra copies of things that show you’re in good health, so you don’t have to quarantine or find testing at your destination.

Packing tips for clothes

Avoid the hassle and fees of bringing extra bags because you packed too many clothes.

Roll your clothes, not fold

Everyone knows clothes typically take up the most room in your suitcase. To save space and time when you’re packing, roll-up your clothes. For shirts, start at the base and roll upwards, tucking the arms in as you reach them. For pants and shorts, fold in half and then roll from the bottom.

But, for clothes that are delicate fabrics or prone to getting wrinkles, it’s best to fold the usual way and sacrifice the extra room in your bag.

Go easy on the shoes

Shoes are bulky, and it’s hard to minimize all of the space they take up in your bag. For every one pair of shoes you pack, you probably could’ve put 3-4 shirts in your bag instead. So, when you’re packing your shoes, try to pick versatile footwear.

For example, a basic pair of flats could be worn during the day, but also dressed up for a night out. Alternatively, you can opt to bring shoes that are smaller and easier to pack, like flip-flops.

Throw in some dryer sheets

Weird but true, adding dryer sheets to your luggage is something you should add to your packing routine. Dryer sheets will help your clothes smell fresh when you take them out of the suitcase. It’ll also help the clothes be less wrinkled after being rolled-up for all that time in your bag!

Carry-on essentials

Your carry-on is just as important as your main luggage bag!

Cleaning & safety supplies

In the age of coronavirus, we’ve added a few new items to our must-brings when traveling. As of right now, when you’re around any large crowd, you should be wearing a face covering. This becomes even more important when you’re packed into a train, plane or car with little air circulation!

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to bring sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer with you when you travel. Pandemic or not, traveling exposes you to a lot of germs. It never hurts to wipe down your seat before you settle in, or sanitize your hands an extra time after eating a snack from the flight attendant.

Travel size toiletries

Toiletries are a must-have when you travel, especially if you have a particular soap, shampoo or face wash you just can’t live without. But if you want to bring these items from home, don’t make the rookie mistake of throwing your full-sized toiletries into your carry-on bag when you’re flying. All that will get you is a stop from airport security and your favorite products tossed in the garbage.

Those full-sized items are for checked luggage, but there’s still a way to bring a little splash of perfume, dab of cologne and more on your flight — travel-sized items. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) , you’re allowed to bring 3.4 ounces of liquid on a plane. So bring your must-have toiletries, just make sure they’re pint-sized!

But, there is one exception to the pint-sized rule at the time of this writing — hand sanitizers . Because of the pandemic, TSA is permitting hand sanitizers up to 12 oz to be in a carry-on bag. Take advantage of this and sanitize your hands often while traveling!

Entertainment

Long trips can be tedious and boring. To combat the boredom, pack some entertainment with you on your flight. This could be anything: books, magazines, crossword puzzles, pre-downloaded episodes of your favorite show and music, just to name a few. The longer you’re on a flight, the more activities you should pack to keep yourself occupied.

Last-minute hacks

Make sure you do these things right before your trip.

Pack toiletries the morning of

Write yourself a note with everything you need to bring with you the morning of your trip, so you don’t forget any of the items you need right up until the last second. You don’t want to wake up in the morning and waste time by searching through your luggage for your toothpaste or a brush to get rid of your bed-head before you head to the airport!

Wear comfortable clothes

Traveling involves a lot of sitting and waiting around. It’s best to wear comfortable clothes when you’re most likely going to be sitting in uncomfortable seats for most of the day. It’s usually easier to nap that way too!

Double-check you have your must-haves

Lastly, before you leave the house, make sure you have everything you can not  travel without. This includes your boarding pass, travel credit cards  (especially a no-foreign transaction fee card if traveling internationally), passport, medications and more. Even if you know you packed them, just check once more before you walk out the door.

Bottom line

Traveling is fun and exciting, so why should packing be stressful and difficult? With our ultimate travel packing list , you’ll never forget an item you need for your trip again.

Follow that list and these few tips, and you’ll be a packing expert in no time.

More Topics

General Travel

Join the Discussion!

Comments are closed.

You May Also Like

BonusTracker: Best credit card bonus offers

June 14, 2021 4

Best Hilton credit cards: Improved weekend night certificates, earning rates and more

June 12, 2021 2

Our Favorite Partner Cards

Popular posts.

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Everything you need to know to create a perfect

Packing List

A guide on how to pack better and lighter to optimize your travel experience.

• 01. Preparation
• 02. Organization
• 03. The Essentials
• 04. Nice-To-Haves
• 05. Departure

Pack smarter, travel farther.

Get four extra months of online security when you sign up for a 2-year plan with NordVPN! Check it out →

The Packing List For the Best Trip of Your Life

You know those movie scenes where someone is physically sitting on their suitcase, trying to get it to latch shut while clothes are bursting out the sides? They’re bouncing up and down on top of it like a lunatic until it either closes or they give up in frustration.

Yeah… It doesn’t have to be that way. Trust us. In fact, we guarantee that if you take the time to read this guide and develop your own rock-solid packing list, you’ll never run into that problem. Plus, you’ll travel a whole lot lighter, which makes traveling a whole lot more enjoyable. It’s a win-win.

Throughout the rest of this guide, we’ll point you towards gear that can optimize your packing list, and we’ll also share some of our favorite packing tips and hacks. So whether you’re packing for your very first trip abroad or you’re a seasoned traveler with 20 countries under your belt, we’re going to help you find the best options to pack light and right (for you).

While this guide is more of a general “how to create the best packing list for you” kind of thing, our packing list page is full of curated lists that will help you decide what to pack.

Choosing Your Luggage (Travel Backpacks, Suitcases & More)

Let’s begin with what we’d argue is the most important part of it all—your luggage. Whether you go for roller luggage, a duffel or a backpack, this one purchase is going to play a huge role in how you travel. You’ll want your luggage to have enough space, be comfortable to carry for long periods of time and hold up for years to come. It also tends to the be one of the most expensive items in your travel arsenal. No pressure, but you’ll want to get this one right.

But before we dive into that question, we have to clear up one thing: this guide will be focusing almost entirely on carry-on luggage. Why? Well, we love to travel exclusively with carry-on luggage for a couple of reasons.

First of all, knowing that you have all of your gear on you at all times provides a certain level of freedom. If you’re traveling with only a carry-on, you don’t have to get to the airport early to deal with checking a bag, and when you get off the plane, you can head right to the airport exit without having to wait at the luggage carousel. You’ll also never have to worry about your luggage getting lost by the airline, and you’ll never have to pay extra fees to check a bag.

That being said, we can understand why someone might want to check a bag. You don’t have to lug around a heavy pack through the airport, and you can pack a lot more stuff by using a huge bag.

HOWEVER , we are confident that you can have the best of both worlds if you pack correctly! With the right gear and some know-how, you can perpetually travel the world with a carry-on that is light, comfortable and holds everything you need to live your best life.

The Luggage Debate

And now that we’ve cleared that up, we have one more thing to settle. Backpack or roller luggage? Duffel or suitcase? Let’s take a look at some pros and cons.

Travel Backpacks are nice because they allow you to be agile. You can fly past those slow-pokes on the left side of the escalator, you can climb mountains, you can hop over a puddle, you can walk down cobblestone streets, you can go for a stroll along the beach…you get the idea. These things are just not possible with roller luggage. Additionally, backpacks allow your hands to be free at all times and they typically have more organization than a suitcase. They have plenty of areas to stash things like a mouse, keyboard, pens, notebooks and more. Most suitcases don’t give you that option. And finally, they tend to be a bit more compact. If you don’t have your pack filled to the brim, you can usually compress it so that it takes up less space. Overall, backpacks tend to be less cumbersome than a suitcase.

Roller luggage , on the other hand, is a good option for those who may not be able to (or don’t want to) carry a backpack. There’s no denying that rolling along a piece of luggage is far less strenuous than carrying a backpack—so whether it’s due to a bad back or you just hate carrying backpacks, we understand that it’s not for everyone. Additionally, roller luggage tends to offer more rigidity than most backpacks, and it gives you a simple, structured compartment to pack all of your belongings. If you can’t stand the thought of your clothes getting wrinkled, roller luggage can help with that.

Duffel bags are good for holding a whole lot of stuff, but we tend to think the cons outweigh the pros. Duffel bags don’t offer much organization, they’re difficult and strenuous to carry, and they don’t have much structure, rigidity, or padding. Some duffel bags are multi-function—they might function as a backpack, duffel, and messenger bag. Unfortunately, we have yet to find a bag that does any of those as well as one that has a dedicated role. If you’re interested in a duffel for travel, we’d like to nudge you over to the proverbial backpack aisle.

Traditional suitcases are, to be honest, far from ideal. If you really like your old-fashioned suitcase for whatever reason, we’d recommend looking into one with wheels. It will make your life a million times easier. (We’re not exaggerating—we’ve done the math. A million. Times. Easier.)

We’re not here to tell you which one to choose, although we do think you should limit yourself to the two objectively “best” options—travel backpacks and roller luggage. And we’re not going to lie to you; we’re quite partial to backpacks—so you may see a slight bias towards backpacks in this guide. It’s in the name, after all.

However, if you’re traveling the world perpetually, we’d highly recommend going for a backpack due to the added versatility and freedom of movement. Traveling the world with roller luggage is a recipe for frustration and far too much cursing. We think the journey is half the fun, so you should do what you can to enjoy it.

Luggage Considerations

When choosing the perfect travel backpack or luggage for your travels, you’re going to want to take size and versatility into consideration. The size will, obviously, designate how much stuff you can bring along with you. A larger bag means more room for luggage but more strain on your body and less flexibility. The smaller the pack, the fewer items you’ll need to lug along with you and the easier it will be to move around.

We tend to opt for a happy medium. Traveling ultralight with nothing more than a change of underwear and a toothbrush isn’t terribly enjoyable (at least, in our experience). In the same vein, traveling with a heavy pack that has everything you could need for every possible situation is usually unnecessary and frustrating.

15 to 25 liters is very much on the small side. This is good for weekend trips or extended travel for serious minimalists . For most people looking to travel perpetually, we’d recommend going a bit bigger.

30 to 40 liters tends to be the sweet spot. This is a good size that can easily fit everything you need for perpetual travel while possibly having some wiggle room left over, depending on how heavy you pack. With a backpack, you’ll start running into some nice options for organization here, if that’s your thing, or you can use packing cubes to organize things yourself. This is also the size where smaller folks might start needing to think about how the bag will actually fit on their back. Larger packs in the 40-liter range can be cumbersome for smaller frames.

Over 40 liters is pretty damn large, and you’re going to start running into carry-on compliance issues here. Bags in the 40 to 50-liter range—like the GORUCK GR3 —may claim they’re carry-on compliant, but we have our reservations (hah, travel puns). You’ll definitely want to be careful trying to use a bag of this size for carry-on travel, although it does give you a lot of freedom regarding what to pack.

As far as versatility goes, we have a few things to note. First of all, we like bags that have some built-in weather-resistance or a solid rain cover . This allows you to easily travel through varying climates and be prepared for just about any weather event that might occur. Weather-resistant materials are great for this, but weather-resistant zippers tend to make a huge difference. Good zippers will give you some peace of mind when that sprinkle turns into a downpour.

Some backpacks feature compression straps , which also add some versatility. These allow the pack to expand when full and compress down to a slimmer version when not—meaning you can compress a large travel pack down to something that will work well for shorter trips or a day out in a city. Some packs can compress quite a bit, effectively acting as a daypack and travel pack combined into one . (Another great method is to bring along a packable daypack, but we’ll get into that later on!)

Before we dive into all the nitty-gritty stuff, let’s talk for a second about how packing can affect your overall travel budget.

In the vast majority of cases, traveling with nothing but a carry-on compliant bag will save you money, but you should always do your research beforehand to avoid any surprises. Most airlines charge no extra cost for you to bring along both a carry-on item and a personal item ; however, some airlines will charge varying fees for this and almost all charge for checked bags. It all depends on who you’re flying with, restrictions and prices vary.

Our best recommendation here is to keep your carry-on item well within the general carry-on restrictions, which are 22 inches high by 9 inches deep by 14 inches wide . When you see a backpack listed as “carry-on compliant,” they’re almost certainly saying it fits within these parameters. This means that your bag will definitely get through airport security in the U.S.

That being said, when it comes to size limitations, some airlines will have tighter restrictions and some will give you a bit of extra breathing room. All airlines have some kind of weight restriction , but there is no standard. Generally speaking, you’re highly unlikely to run into a weight restriction unless you’re carrying a lot of seriously heavy stuff—like camera equipment, rocks, or gym weights. (Sorry to all the photographer-mountaineering-weightlifters out there. You might want to check your bag.)

If you haven’t caught on yet, the main lesson here is to check your airline’s website before you fly. And when packing, try to keep things light and compact whenever possible to avoid having to check your bag. This is especially true if you’re traveling around the world, hopping from airline to airline, as one flight may make you check your carry-on, while another won’t.

And if you’re getting concerned about your bag not making it onto a flight—don’t. As long as your bag makes it through security, it is getting on that flight. You may get charged a fee, they may ask you to put it in the cargo hold, but you should never worry about being forced to leave it behind.

What to Pack: The Bare Minimum Essentials

If you’re choosing to show up at the airport with just the clothes on your back and the bare minimum (kudos to you ultra minimalists out there), here’s a list for you. These are the basic items every traveler needs to get on their flight and make their way to their destination.

If you’re not concerned with the details, here’s the rundown:

• Some cash (small bills)

Traveling out of your home country? You’re definitely going to need a passport, and it needs to be current.

For U.S. residents, these typically take four to six weeks to process, so get ahead of the game! You will have to go through the application process and then wait for it to come in the mail. It is possible to expedite this process if you’re willing to fork over some extra cash or you have some extenuating circumstances where you need to have it sooner—but in general, we’d advise planning ahead. The easiest place to get this stuff done is typically a U.S. post office.

For all other countries, the specifics will vary, but the sentiment remains the same. Plan ahead. And make sure you are consulting an official government website in your home country to get the most accurate information and correct forms.

Finally, even if you already have a passport, make sure it won’t expire at any point during your trip or even anywhere near your trip. If your passport is current at the time of your departure, but it is going to expire during your stay, you won’t be able to get into the country. Or, if for some reason you do get in, you might have trouble getting out!

Depending on where, when, and how long you’ll be in another country, you may also need to apply for a visa. There are a whole lot of requirements and stipulations to get a visa, and they all vary from country to country. We’re not going to dive into this, but just know that in most scenarios, you’ll be fine traveling to a country for less than 30 days without a visa. Over 30—and especially over 90—and you should really do your research. You’ll likely need one.

In addition to a passport, you’ll want to bring along your local photo ID. This may come in handy at the airport and in other travel scenarios—like buying alcohol, renting a car, or getting into age-restricted events. At the very least, you’ll want to have one as a precautionary measure. It’s always good to have two forms of ID in case you lose your passport. Typically, this takes the form of a driver’s license or student ID.

Regardless of where you’re going, you’ll need your boarding pass. You’ve got some options on how to approach this, and the good thing is they’re all relatively easy. We think some people stress out too much about boarding passes—in reality, they’re very easy to deal with.

• The Counter: Just like the old days, you can still go to your airline’s customer service counter (where you check a bag) and have them print your boarding pass out. We’d highly recommend against this, as there will almost always be a line. If you need to check a bag, though, it can make sense to bundle it all in one trip.

You may also want to print out your itinerary. Serious travelers might balk at this, but we still like to print out our itinerary sometimes, especially if things are a bit complicated. Between connecting flights, Airbnbs, and car rentals, it can be nice to have all the info you need in one place on a physical piece of paper. This is especially true if you’re ever going to be crunched for time during your trip—like making it to a business meeting right after your flight.

Cash can come in handy while traveling, so we usually like to bring a couple of small bills—in both our home currency and the currency of our destination—to the airport for the first leg of our journey. However, we don’t recommend carrying around large amounts. Stick with small bills and grab yourself a travel-friendly debit and/or credit card . Some offer great travel benefits!

If you know your destination before departing, you can also visit your local bank ahead of time to grab a lower exchange rate on cash, instead of wasting the extra buck or two on this once you arrive.

These are the bare minimum essentials you’ll want and need to bring along for your travels. These are also the first items we tend to set aside while planning and packing for our trip, to ensure we have them when we hit the road. Now…let’s pack that bag!

Sign up to get our 5 Minimalist Travel Hacks Guide. Plus, a weekly digest of our newest content in the newsletter.

An organized pack makes for a happy trip.

How to Pack the Right Way

Do you know what the difference between a frazzled traveler and a calm, collected, professional traveler is?

ORGANIZATION!

The simplest step you can take towards retaining your sanity and ensuring a stress-free journey is to keep all your belongings well-organized. An organized pack makes airport security a breeze, among many other things. You’ll be able to pull out everything you need from your pack at a moment’s notice, and because you’ll never be wasting time trying to find anything, you’ll never fall behind schedule. And because you’ll always be ahead of schedule, you’ll never be in a rush. Which also means you’ll be far less likely to lose anything. Plus, it just feels damn good.

What we’re getting at here is that an organized pack makes for a more enjoyable travel experience!

The key to keeping an organized pack is compartmentalization. And the key to compartmentalization is packing cubes, pouches, and Dopp kits.

Why Packing Cubes?

Packing cubes are one of our absolute go-to travel items. We almost always use them, no matter what or where we are packing for. With packing cubes, you can organize and compress your gear, keeping your bag tidy and saving space.

We’re not going to go in-depth on packing cubes in this guide, but we will talk for a minute about how to best use them. There are basically three trains of thought, and none of them are right or wrong nor are they mutually exclusive. You could use one method or a mix of both to create a system that works for you. It’s really up to personal preference.

• Pack by frequency of use: If you’re only going to be wearing your warm jacket and socks for a few days during your trip, it might make sense to pack that stuff into one cube and toss it in the bottom of your bag. You can keep it out of the way and keep your other gear more accessible.

Trust us on this one, if you do use packing cubes, you’ll thank yourself when you arrive at your destination with a perfectly organized bag.

It also might take a few trips to find a system that works for you—and that’s okay. We’ve actually found it helpful to practice your trip beforehand by packing up your bag just as you would for travel, and going about your daily routine with nothing else but what’s in the bag. This is a good way to figure out what items you need and don’t need, but it will also help you find a packing cube system that makes sense.

Dopp Kit / Toiletry Bag

Instead of throwing all your toiletries into a packing cube, we suggest utilizing a Dopp kit or toiletry bag.

FUN FACT: Dopp kit is a term for toiletry pouches that is commonly used in the United States, and we have Charles Doppelt to thank for it. His company (Dopp) designed small pouches that were issued to U.S. soldiers during World War I and II, and they became widely known as “Dopp Kits.” Now you’ve got a great little factoid for your next cocktail party. (You’re welcome.)

Like the rest of your packing situation, organization is key here—no one wants to dump out their entire toiletry kit to find their daily vitamins at the very bottom. If you utilize a Dopp kit with some organization, your mornings will run smoothly, and you’ll be able to find all your items at a moment’s notice. (It’s the little things that can make or break your morning routine!)

We’ve found Dopp kits with internal organization and a hanging mechanism—like the Muji Hanging Travel Case—to be stellar options. You can hang one of these bad boys up in your Airbnb, and you’re ready to go for the rest of your trip. No unpacking, no spreading your stuff all over the counter—everything is right where it needs to be, and when it comes time to leave, you can close it up and be on your way. Mesh pockets are key as they let you see where everything is at a glance, and we also like to have a few elastic keepers to hold smaller items in place.

What to Pack In Your Personal Item

As we discussed in the introduction, many airlines allow you to bring one personal item on board for free, in addition to your carry-on. We say “many” because, although rare, some budget airlines will charge you a fee for bringing a personal item.

Your personal item can be any small bag, like a daypack , purse, sling bag , or fanny pack (which is no longer just for dads stuck in the 80s, by the way). For the most part, when you board the plane, you’ll want to place your carry-on into the overhead bin and take your personal item directly to your seat with you.

Choosing the right stuff for your personal item is essential to having a stress-free—and ideally, relaxing—flight. Feeling a headache coming on mid-flight? Well, if you packed right, you’ll have your Tylenol or essential oils in a quick zip. Need to drown out the sound of that crying newborn two rows behind you? Your noise-canceling headphones are just a zip away—whew.

Here is a quick list of what you’re almost guaranteed to find in one of our personal items:

• A book: Sometimes there’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned book. No WiFi, no battery, you can always count on this one.

We consider those to be the essentials for a well-stocked personal item. You might not need every item on that list, but we guarantee you’ll want at least a couple, if not most of them. But that’s not all! We have a few other honorable mentions which are not entirely essential, but some people swear by them.

Compression socks can help increase circulation while in flight, reducing the risk of swelling. If you’ve ever noticed this happening on long flights, you might want to look into getting a pair and keeping them in your personal item.

Neck pillows make sleeping on a plane a whole lot more comfortable . We don’t typically use travel pillows because they’re not very versatile and add some extra bulk, but to each their own. Inflatable may be your best bet, as they weigh very little.

Motion sickness medication can be helpful for obvious reasons, although if you need this stuff you’re probably already well aware. One of our team members sat next to a man who barfed all over himself as soon as the plane landed. Do everyone a favor and don’t be that person, if you can help it.

Sleep aids are also helpful for obvious reasons. If you’ve got a red-eye and you know you have trouble sleeping on planes, do yourself a favor and grab some Benadryl, Melatonin, or—if you’re really serious—Ambien to knock yourself out and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed. PSA: We’re not doctors! Do your research and talk to your doctor before you take any new medication!

Gogo Inflight or other in-flight WiFi tools can be great for digital nomads working on the go. But we know what you’re thinking— “Hey! That’s not something I can put in my personal item!” —and you’re right. But if you do have one of these accounts, you should make sure you have the password written down on your phone or a piece of paper. If you have it saved in your web browser or in a password manager, you might not be able to retrieve it without internet. It’s a real Catch-22 scenario, and we’re a bit ashamed to say we know this from trial and error.

The stuff you need to stay alive while on the road. Minimalists rejoice!

What To Pack

If you’ve tackled choosing a travel bag and set of packing cubes (highly recommended) then you are ready to start filling them up with essentials. There are many different occasions and places to pack for, not to mention packing for your own personal style and needs, so we’ll do our best to guide you through the basics. We’ll give you our top gear recommendations and the info you need to make an educated decision. (Which is really what we’re all about—this stuff is your decision at the end of the day.)

Keep in mind, we’re keeping things pretty general here. We’ll have more specific packing lists for individual travel styles and preferences coming soon. Check back or, better yet, sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date.

In any case, in order to optimize your luggage, we recommend packing the most versatile items and pieces of clothing you can muster. This could be anything from a shirt you can wear 20 days in a row without washing —we didn’t believe it either, but it really works—or a shirt you can wear five different ways . There are some pretty nifty pieces of travel gear out there and we’ll help you find the best. Let’s get packing!

(Are we the only ones that get excited about packing? It’s not just us, right? …Right?)

We’ll start with clothing essentials. The amount of clothing you bring is dependent on how long you plan to travel for, so we’ll stick to the basics here. You’ll likely want these pieces to be as versatile as possible—think merino wool and neutral color schemes that you can wear in a bunch of different combinations.

Soft, durable, and functional for workout & daily wear—the Outlier Runweight Merino T-Shirt is great, but the new version generates more pilling than we’d like to see.

The durability and quality of the clothing you choose is incredibly important here. You won’t want your t-shirt to develop holes twelve days after the first wear if you plan on traveling for a whole year. Pay attention to the materials each item is made with and be particular about the sizing. You are going to want these items to fit as comfortably as possible, as you’ll likely be on the move in them a fair amount.

We’re big fans of merino wool blends for travel, but really any other breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics will do. One thing you should know is that merino wool can go unwashed for several days—even weeks or months—without smelling. That’s one reason why it has become one of our trusty go-to travel fabrics.

Cotton is one fabric we try our best to stray away from when packing. It tends to dry slower, retain smell, and it’s less breathable than other fabrics on the market. But we’ve got to give credit where credit is due—cotton is damn comfortable, and it’s cheap. There’s a reason why 90% of t-shirts are made from cotton, after all. If you’re going on a short trip, cotton should be fine. If you’re traveling the world or taking an extended vacation, merino wool is worth the investment. Linen is also another cotton alternative that is comfortable, lightweight, and versatile.

Variations for the Everyday Twist Top

Versatile pieces can also go a long way when traveling. We love items that can be worn multiple ways, like Buff USA’s Wool Buff, which can be worn in twelve different ways. It combines a hat, face mask, scarf, bandana, balaclava and more into one tiny item—saving you space, weight and money.

Solid colors also can play a big role in versatility. You can generally piece together lots of solid color items and keep things interchangeable, meaning you’ll end up with more outfits for your trip without actually having to buy more tops and bottoms. We’ve also found that darker color pieces can help fight against stains and general wear and tear on the road. Accidentally spill some wine on your shirt while indulging in a pre-dinner amuse bouche in Rome? It happens to the best of us, really. But don’t worry, that black shirt won’t even show it and you’ll be good to go for the rest of your trip.

As long as you have tops, bottoms, underwear, and socks—you’ll be covered! (Unless you have some other body parts that we don’t know about?) Our advice here is to consider your length of stay, the climate(s) you will be enduring, the reasons for your trip (a wedding perhaps?), and cultural considerations depending on the location you travel to. For more on these, read on.

Shoes can be a tricky item when packing. The key here, again, is versatility! Neutral colors like black and brown tend to work best with a wide range of outfits, so we like to stick with those. Darker colors will pick up less dirt and help keep your shoes looking good.

You are most likely going to want one reliable pair of shoes that you can walk comfortably in for long periods of time without feeling like your heels are beginning to bruise on day two of your trip. In general, if they have some padding, breathability, and they’re lightweight, they’ll probably be winners. Extra brownie points if they are packable! We’ve seen some pretty packable shoes in our day (we’re looking at you, Vivobarefoot Kannas ).

For such a lightweight pair of shoes, the Vivobarefoot Kannas are remarkably comfortable and we’ve been impressed with their versatility and packability. While the craftsmanship isn’t the best we’ve seen, they offer a superb option for any one-bag traveler looking for a pair of shoes that won’t take up half their pack.

We should also note that while having versatile and/or packable shoes is great, you shouldn’t feel restricted from bringing a nice pair of shoes or boots. We recommend wearing your bulkiest pair of shoes while in transit, so they don’t take up a ton of space in your luggage. If you go this route, just consider the length of your journey and whether you’re comfortable wearing those particular shoes for the duration.

Some backpacks offer a shoe compartment , which is pretty nifty for packing multiple shoes. We also love shoe compartments because you can toss in a pair of dirty shoes without mucking up the contents of your bag. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be shoes—these tend to be great compartments for wet clothes or other items you’d rather not have contaminate the rest of your stuff.

But while nice to have in certain scenarios, shoe compartments generally take away space from the main compartment of your pack, which can really screw up the configuration of your packing cubes/items. We recommend testing this out on your fully-packed bag before you leave to make sure that everything will still fit correctly if you toss your dirty shoes into the compartment.

If your pack or suitcase doesn’t offer this, you can always grab a separate shoe pouch , which functions just like a packing cube, except it’s made specifically for shoes (duh) so it’ll fit them nicely and offer a little thicker fabric.

At the end of the day, shoot for versatile, dark shoes whenever possible. If you’d like to bring multiple shoes, don’t sweat it—just wear your bulkiest pair on the plane. And if you anticipate dealing with some messy shoes, a shoe compartment or shoe pouch can be a lifesaver.

We already mentioned how useful a Dopp kit (AKA toiletry bag) can be, but we didn’t tell you how to pack it. Let’s dive into the details.

First things first, you need a toothbrush . Just about everyone travels with one (at least, we really hope everyone does). Most toothbrushes take up a similar amount of space and there are smaller, compact versions available that take up a bit less—but they’re kind of a pain to use. We have met some people who cut their toothbrush down to allow for just enough room to hold onto while brushing, or even people who will drill holes in their toothbrush handle to save weight.

If you are bringing along a toothbrush then you’re going to need some toothpaste or solid toothpaste tabs . As good oral hygiene goes, a small container of dental floss will also go a long way. If you’re seriously committed to saving space and/or weight, a spool of dental floss wrapped with a rubber band might be a good option.

Now, as much as we like having this stuff with us at all times, there is something to be said for grabbing these items once you reach your destination. We find that many travelers seem to forget that there are shops—just like the ones you have at home—at virtually any urban destination around the world. You can always buy toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss after you arrive. Plus, if you’re staying at a nice hotel or Airbnb, they may offer this stuff for free.

As far as storing things like shampoos, conditioners and other necessities , these can be squeezed into travel bottles or purchased in solid form. We are big fans of solid shampoo and soap bars because they last way longer than your average liquid alternative and they won’t eat into your TSA liquid quota. Plus, a good soap bar can be used for your hair, body, clothes, and even dishes. (Remember when we talked about versatility?)

A good thing to keep in mind here is the TSA’s 3-1-1 security rule for flying with carry-on liquids . This rule may differ from country to country, but in most major countries—and definitely the U.S.—it means each passenger can bring aboard a one-quart plastic bag with 3.4 ounce/100ml bottles of liquids inside it. You can take as many bottles as you want, as long as they’re all under 3.4 ounces and fit inside that plastic bag. So, needless to say, solid items are a great choice. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about a soap bar exploding in your backpack.

We should note that this rule is only for carry-on bags. You are allowed to put liquids of any size in checked bags. And if you’re halfway through security and realize you have too many liquids, you’ll either be forced to throw them out or check your bag.

If you have long hair, you’ll probably want to pack a compact hairbrush or comb in your Dopp kit. (We’re big fans of the Tangle Teezer Compact Styler, which might just be one of the most compact hair tools on the market.) That being said, this is another item that can be found at most convenience stores after you arrive at your destination.

If you’re looking for a hairbrush that won’t damage your hair, saves you time, and fits inside your dopp kit, the Tangle Teezer Compact Styler is a fantastic choice. Other than some minor aesthetic blemishes after five years of testing, this is a great brush that will last you for years to come.

Deodorant will help you stay fresh, which is (obviously) important on the road. It’s pretty hard to make friends when you stink to high heaven. Many of these come in small travel sizes or small tubes. We even know some folks who will cut out a small stick of deodorant and fill up a chapstick tube to save weight, but that’s a little overkill unless you’re really trying to go ultralight.

One thing to note is that if you are packing merino wool, you should stay away from deodorants with antiperspirants in them. We also suggest clear or colorless deodorants as we’ve seen color build up on some of our lighter pieces of clothing after a number of washes.

Some other items to consider packing in your Dopp kit are:

• First Aid Kit: “I really wish I didn’t have that First Aid Kit,” said no one, ever. This should be self-explanatory. And before you ask, yes—it is worth the weight and space.

The amount of time you are traveling for may change what you bring along…but you’d also be surprised. For example, one merino wool t-shirt can be enough for a weekend trip to California, but even if you’re traveling perpetually you’ll only need three or four merino t-shirts. It all depends on how minimalist you’re ready to be, and the quality of items you choose to travel with.

If you’re planning a weekend trip, you can pack super light. But the point we’re trying to make here is that, even if you’re traveling the world for a year, you can still pack pretty damn light. Three to four outfits, an outer layer, tech gear, and toiletries is more or less all you need. (This is the minimum, we’ll get into some other nice-to-have stuff below.)

The climates you plan to travel through may skew your essential packing list items. For example, if you plan to be traveling around South East Asia for a month, you are going to want thin, breathable clothing items. On the other hand, if you are planning for two weeks in Canada, heavier clothing will be your best friend. If you are a last minute spontaneous traveler (we like your style), you’ll want to prepare for a range of climates.

Outside of the desert, rain can happen just about anywhere. Make sure to grab a rain jacket, and if you can, go for a packable option—they take up barely any space and work just as well. That way, you are prepared for whatever the weather may bring. If you are headed somewhere that is heavily prone to rain—we’re looking at you, South East Asia in July—we highly recommend staying away from cotton clothing as well, as it tends to soak up more water and dry slower than other materials.

If you’re heading to the beach, don’t forget your swimsuit ! This is explanatory, but the real key to packing for the beach is (again) versatile clothing. There are a handful of men’s swimsuits that look like totally normal shorts , so you can wear them to the beach and the bar without anyone noticing. (You really should rinse and dry them in between, though.)

There are also many options for women, including tops that double as crop tops and one-pieces that double as bodysuits. Grab a swimsuit that is more versatile to avoid overpacking and get the most out of your apparel choices!

Shoes are another climate consideration. If you are heading somewhere sandy you may want sandals, which allow you to flip-flop through the sand without creating a small beachfront ecosystem inside your shoes.

For humid areas, you’ll want to look into some breathable, possibly mesh, shoes. And for rainy climates we think you can go one of two routes—either go waterproof and bulky (wear them on the plane to save space in your pack!) or lightweight and open. You’ll either want to avoid getting your feet wet entirely or just relish in the wrinkly toes and go for a pair of shoes that will dry quickly at your hotel or Airbnb.

And finally, cold climates don’t necessarily mean heavy winter boots. We love merino wool shoes because they’re warmer—and a hell of a lot lighter—than your average pair of sneaks.

The stuff you don't need to have, but kind of want to have.

What to Consider for Your Packing List

In addition to your basic packing essentials, there are also some nice-to-have items that you may want to think about bringing. These will likely depend on the type of travel you are packing up for—for example, the digital nomad life requires a different set of items than a family vacation in Florida, honeymooning in the Maldives, or summer in Europe.

Tech Accessories

As seasoned digital nomads, we know how important packing tech accessories for the road is. Without our tech gear, we would find ourselves unpaid, unemployed, and well…broke. And since no money = no traveling, it’s kind of a big deal.

First and foremost, you are going to want to bring along your laptop . If you plan to get the majority of your work done with it, this is essential . We’re not going to dive into laptop recommendations, but we will say that any digital nomad should seriously consider buying a pack or suitcase with a nice laptop compartment. You want something that will offer support, security, and ease of access.

And even though most laptop compartments have some form of padding, we always recommend grabbing a protective laptop sleeve . Chances are, your laptop is your livelihood—so you want to keep it as well-protected as possible.

If you do plan to be at your laptop for a considerable amount of time, we recommend checking out an ergonomic portable laptop stand . (We are more or less in love with our Roost Stand, just saying.) These little stands can quite literally save your back, and after getting used to ours, we’re never looking back. In addition to being beneficial for your health, most portable laptop stands can stow away in a compact manner without adding a ton of extra weight.

We took an in-depth look at the Roost V3 Laptop Stand, an original portable laptop stands for digital nomads and one bag travelers that work on the road.

If you plan to bring one of these along, you also won’t want to forget a small portable keyboard and mouse . We prefer Bluetooth for these accessories—because, let’s be honest, wires suck—but you may want to factor in your destination before you decide on this. While Bluetooth is convenient, there are a lot more things that can go wrong. If you’re headed to a remote destination, you may want to opt for wired accessories. If it’s super remote, you may even want to bring some redundancies—like extra cables, chargers, etc.

You already know to bring your chargers and charging cables , but you can really take this to the next level by grabbing a multi-port USB charger, outlet splitter, and universal outlet adapter . That way, you can charge multiple items at once and you’ll be good to go in any country you venture into.

We should also mention that, although you probably can buy some of these things at your destination, we’d recommend against it. When it comes to tech gear, you’re almost always better off buying high-quality components far in advance. That way, you know you’re getting the best deal and the best stuff. Buying charging cables at the airport or touristy areas is a recipe for disaster. Not only will they cost an arm and a leg, but they might not even make it through your trip.

Any digital nomad should, of course, pack a pair of headphones along with their tech gear. Earbuds are great because they save space and weight, but you’ll compromise on sound quality and noise-canceling. This is mainly up to personal preference, but our one major recommendation would be to grab some headphones that have a microphone built in. That way, you can use them to talk on the phone while keeping both hands free.

If you plan on country hopping or being on-the-go often, we highly suggest grabbing a battery bank . This little tech accessory will save your sanity when your phone battery is at 5% and you’re frantically trying to find your Airbnb as the sun sets in Barcelona. It might sound romantic at first, but walking around in the dark with no clue where you’re going isn’t the best situation to be in. Save yourself by grabbing a small battery bank—we love the selection from Anker.

Just make sure that yours is under 100Wh (watt-hours)! Due to TSA restrictions, you’re not going to be able to carry any bank over 100Wh on to a plane, although you may be able to bring larger ones on with approval.

This typically means you can use any bank that is under 27,027 mAh (milliamp hours) without approval from your airline. If you have a bank over that—and under 43,243 mAh—you’ll want to contact your airline and get it approved beforehand. And just to make things more confusing, you should know that these numbers are assuming your bank is at the standard voltage of 3.7V. If it’s a different voltage, they will be skewed.

Confused? Most portable battery banks are going to be just fine. Make sure to check the watt-hours on the website before you buy and you’ll be good to go. And if you’re really confused, drop us an email and we’ll check it out for you!

We don’t need to tell you this, but we will anyway—pack your phone . Besides functioning as a GPS, watch, weather portal and entertainment center, we typically get a lot of mileage out of our smartphone cameras during travel. Some people might want to bring a dedicated travel camera —which is fine—but in most scenarios, a smartphone camera can get the job done while saving a whole lot of space.

And speaking of phones, we’d suggest downloading a couple essential apps:

• FourSquare is a great option for finding coffee shops, restaurants, and more.

Packable Daypacks

Packable daypacks are, as the name implies, smaller backpacks that can compress or pack down to nearly nothing. We love these because they allow you to leave your larger bag at your Airbnb/hotel/hostel and explore your destination with just the gear you need for the day.

Packable daypacks come in many forms, but these are some of our favorites.

• A Plastic Grocery Bag: This is tough for us to say, but here it goes. (Deep breaths.) In a worst case scenario, you can always stuff a…plastic grocery bag…in your luggage. This is really not the best solution for carrying your items around throughout your journey, but it “can” work. However , we will concede that a plastic bag is nice to have for containing dirty laundry, wet shoes, and other items you’d rather not have in contact with the rest of the stuff in your pack.

One major bonus to having a packable daypack in your travel arsenal is that you can also use it as a secondary vessel to carry stuff home that you didn’t plan on in the first place. Sometimes, your luggage seems to mysteriously expand during your trip, for whatever reason—whether its souvenirs, food, supplies, or just unorganized packing. Having an additional pack can give you some peace of mind, knowing that you’ve got plenty of room to bring home all that Swiss chocolate that your aunt has been begging you for.

We should also note that many one bag travel packs offer compression straps, allowing you to slim the pack down—sometimes substantially. If you get the right pack, you can easily leave some of your stuff at your Airbnb/hostel/hotel, slim your pack down, and head out for the day without having the extra bulk of a fully-laden pack. (Just make sure your belongings are secure, wherever you leave them!)

Workout/Health Items

Staying healthy while traveling can be tough, but we’ll give you some recommendations to make things easier. With just a bit of planning and a small amount of space, these items can help you feel good, boost your productivity, and create a morning—or evening—routine while on-the-go.

If you’re an avid yogi looking forward to sun salutations on-the-go or just hoping to have a reliable space to stretch each morning, a travel-friendly yoga mat should be an essential addition to your list. Many travel packs will offer some way to secure a yoga mat to the outside, so if you do this right, you won’t really be sacrificing any space in your pack. These mats can be multipurpose too, providing some space to lay down on the beach or even take a quick power nap at the airport.

Whether you’re an avid yogi or just looking for a spot to zen out while traveling, the Manduka eKO SuperLite Yoga Mat is an eco-friendly choice that can be packed up smaller than your average yoga mat.

If you don’t want to bring a yoga mat—or you just want to have an entire kit of fitness tools at your disposal resistance bands are another option to consider. These little bands can be used in a million different ways to exercise pretty much any part of your body. These also tend to be a pretty budget-friendly option, along with being lightweight and versatile.

Serious Steel Resistance Bands offer a budget-friendly, lightweight, and versatile way to resistance train and stay in shape while traveling.

And finally, you could go for the most minimal fitness routine of them all—running! Just pack a pair of light running shoes and you’ll have everything you need to stay in shape across the globe.

Healthy snacks are also important! You never know what kind of food options you’ll encounter on your travels. Every now and then, you might find yourself in a situation where your options are limited, unhealthy, or you’re just not feeling the local cuisine. It’s worth grabbing some quality snacks, like protein bars and mixed nuts, at the supermarket before you leave. This step is highly recommended for vegans or vegetarians traveling to remote areas of the world. It can be tricky out there.

Speaking of snacks and foreign foods, if you tend to get stomach aches or you’re nervous about immersing yourself (and your stomach) into the local cuisine of a country you’ve never been to, you may want to consider picking up some charcoal tablets or another type of stomach soother. This is one of those situations where it’s better to be prepared. Trust us on this one.

And finally, staying healthy—as in, alive and disease-free—on the road should always be a top priority. If you are heading anywhere that feels remote, like parts of Africa, South America, Asia, or Australia, you’ll want to check in with the CDC or other local medical centers to make sure you’ve got all the proper vaccinations. Even just a trip to your local doctor will likely do the trick—they probably get people prepped for travel all the time, and if not, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.

It’s important to do this well in advance, as certain countries will bar you from entering if you don’t have the proper vaccinations, and some of them either require time to take effect or have to be spaced out from one another. Malaria pills are also no joke—make sure you come prepared.

Cultural Considerations

Wherever you may be adventuring, we highly recommend looking into cultural considerations before blindly heading off to a country you are unfamiliar with. Tradition and values are very important to pretty much everyone around the world. If you’d like to be a kind citizen of the world—and you obviously should—we suggest keeping some of the following in mind in addition to doing some research of your own.

If you plan to visit some Buddhist Temples in Asia, be respectful of the dress code. You are expected to cover your arms and legs. A sarong can be great for this type of experience, and they’re sometimes even offered at the entrance of temples. In addition to the proper dress code, don’t be that person snapping photos at inappropriate times during ceremonies and rituals. Some things are better left as fond memories, rather than photo evidence. Be mindful of your surroundings.

Slip-on shoes are also highly beneficial in some areas of the world where you’re expected to take your shoes off frequently. In many parts of Asia, you’re expected to take your shoes off when visiting someone’s home or entering certain sacred areas. Slip-on shoes or sandals take up little room in your pack, but they’ll make your life a whole lot easier. (And spending 2 minutes to untie your shoes in these scenarios screams “TOURIST!”)

If you are traveling to China, consider packing less white pieces of clothing. We typically stay away from white clothing when traveling anyhow, as it tends to pick up lots of dirt. However, in China white represents mourning and is typically worn during funerals. Not a good look for your everyday attire.

When visiting select countries and cities in the Middle East, it would be frowned upon—and in some places illegal—to not be covered in a modest manner. Some places are more strict with these types of laws than others, so make sure to do your researc depending on your destination. In any case, it is a good idea to have a scarf with you to cover your head and shoulders if necessary for both respect and safety.

These are just a few of the most prominent cultural considerations we’ve encountered during our travels. It would be impossible to list out every consideration for every culture across the globe, so be sure to do your research before you hit the airport.

Travel Security

Traveling safely and securely is something that can be overlooked and undervalued—or overbearing and overdone, depending on how you do it! But we think it is absolutely worth considering. There is crime just about everywhere, and unfortunately, tourists tend to be easy targets. Especially when you’re living out of a single backpack, you need to keep your belongings safe. That pack is your lifeline.

Some backpacks and suitcases offer lockable zippers, allowing you to attach a small padlock to keep thieves at bay. Pacsafe is a great brand to check out for all your travel security hopes, wants, and needs. Other packs offer more subtle safety features, such as discreet lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and tear-proof materials. And in places where theft runs high, you may even consider grabbing some additional security gear .

We love simple security features, like hidden pockets on the back panels of backpacks. That way, you can store secure items like your passport and cash, knowing that it would be impossible for anyone to snatch them while you’re wearing the pack. Some packs also offer hidden pockets within the internal compartments that would be virtually impossible to find if you didn’t know what you were looking for

If your backpack does not offer much in the way of security features or if you’ve opted to travel with a suitcase; traveling with a small fanny pack or sling may be a great option to hold your valuables. With a sling or fanny pack, small items can stay close to you at all times—they are also a great spot to store your phone for quick access whenever you want to snap a quick photo on the road!

And finally, our last piece of travel security advice is to do whatever you can to make a potential thief’s life more difficult. The vast majority of thieves are looking for the easiest, quickest candidate to steal from. So anything you can do to make the process of ripping open your luggage harder is a good thing.

There are some simple hacks you can use, like buckling compression straps that run over zippers. Even minor things like sticking zipper pulls into their little zipper jackets can add on a few crucial seconds. Additionally, you can get creative by attaching your bags to certain fixed items via shoulder straps, carabiners, padlocks, and more.

Book that ticket, pack that bag, and prepare for departure!

Time to Get Packing!

If you’ve gotten this far, you should have a good idea of what you want to fill your backpack or suitcase with. Keep in mind that all this stuff comes down to what works best for YOU, at the end of the day. These are merely guidelines for you to run with.

But we’re not done yet! In addition to picking the right gear, there are a few other things you should do before you depart for travel.

Packing List Generator

The first thing you should do is make a packing list. You can use our Packing List Tool to get started. It’s free to sign up and helps you track what to bring and how much it weighs to ensure your travel backpack, daypack, and sling are carry on compliant.

It’s organized into different categories, so you can track the amount of toiletries, clothing, and accessories you bring on your trip, along with noting what you’ll carry on board and what you’ll be wearing. You can even add a photo and a description to help you remember what type of trip you’re packing for so you can use it again later.

Check out some of our Pro Community packing lists and our curated packing lists for ideas of how to get started, and if you need more help, watch our step-by-step video walk through.

Practice Makes Perfect

If there has been one overarching theme of this guide, it is to prepare for your trip well in advance . And while creating the perfect packing list is all well and good, it won’t help you very much if you never actually check to see that everything fits.

If you want to have a genuinely stress-free travel experience, we highly recommend practicing your trip before you leave. Yes, we know this sounds ridiculous. Just hear us out.

Once you’ve got your packing list figured out, go ahead and grab all your gear and pack it up in your backpack or suitcase. It can also help to lay out everything on the ground or a big table to review all the items you’re going to bring.

Once you’ve got your bag packed up, just go about your day. Go to work or go about your normal routines with nothing but the stuff in your luggage, and act as if your home is your hotel room. We like to do this for a couple of days to really sort out all the possible kinks—and because this stuff is pretty much our lives—but just one day can do wonders. The benefit of doing multiple days is you can get pretty granular and figure out how many clothes you need to pack.

You’ll figure out pretty quickly what you need, what you don’t, and how much stuff you can actually fit in your pack. And it’s fun! (At least, we think so.)

Preparing Before Leaving

Coming home to a clean space has to be one of the best feelings ever. Thinking ahead can save you some brain space and time. No one wants to worry about paying past bills right when you walk through the door or washing those three week old dishes—gross. Take some extra time before leaving to iron these things out! You’ll thank yourself later (and us, for reminding you).

• You know to lock your doors, but make sure all of your windows are locked as well!

Most importantly, don’t stress yourself out! These are all suggestions and lessons that we have learned over the years, after much trial and error. We want you to learn from our mistakes and have the most successful trip possible, no matter where your plane is touching down.

Traveling to new (and old) destinations can be incredibly exciting and a bit overwhelming at times. But with enough preparation and optimization—we know you’ll have a great adventure.

From all of us on the Pack Hacker team, good luck and bon voyage!

As always, feel free to drop us a line if you have questions or comments. We’d love to hear from you.

Author: Pack Hacker Team

We find and test the best gear for travel based on form, function and aesthetic. We believe the best trips start with quality gear, regardless if you’re traveling for business or pleasure.

Our ultimate travel packing list for beginner and advanced travellers

This page contains affiliate links.

Travelling somewhere nice and looking to create the ultimate travel packing list? Let’s be honest, preparing for your travels can be overwhelming. It’s never as simple as throwing a few items in a bag and heading to the airport with your passport in hand. This is where the ultimate travel packing list comes to the rescue. Thinking about baggage weight, adapters, currency, immunisations? We got you covered.

With ample time and a few simple strategies, the process of preparing for your travels can be pain-free. In fact, according to a series of studies, planning a holiday can deliver a dose of happiness. We can maximise this pre-trip glee by fully immersing ourselves in the excitement of planning. Which is what I’m here to help you do.

I’ve created this travel packing list to help you pack well, every time. Instead of creating a conclusive travel packing list, I’ve suggested a framework that can be adapted to your travel style.

Table of Contents

Ultimate travel packing list, pick the perfect luggage, organize your belongings, organise your travel toiletry bag, pick your travel tech, tips for healthy travels, travel vaccinations, travel insurance, research your travel destination, how to organise your travel documents, packing tips for your carry-on luggage, how to prepare your home before you travel, my final advice.

It all begins with a solid travel packing checklist. A good travel checklist should be broken down into sublists and include a 7 day packing timeline. While 7 days sounds a little excessive, it will give you plenty of time to make sure your holiday gear is in good shape and stock up on any missing toiletries. Let’s start by breaking our checklist into the following categories…

• Clothing & shoes (daywear, evening, swimwear and underwear)
• Bags & Accessories
• Pack your toiletries bag
• Organise your electronics
• Organise your travel Documents
• Travel Immunisations and other health considerations
• Prepare your home for travel
• Prepare your carry-on luggage

The first thing you need to tick off your travel packing list is finding the perfect luggage . Anyone who has lugged a wheeled suitcase down a dirt track to a hostel, or arrived at an uber-luxury resort with a scruffy backpack in tow, knows that choosing the right luggage is essential to enjoying a hassle-free vacation. Here’s how to pick the luggage that’s right for you.

• Traditional Suitcases win for their ease, sturdiness and security, and are usually the preferred option for those travelling to just one destination instead of moving between different accommodations. Suitcases will not only keep your clothes organized and (almost) wrinkle-free, but opt for an expandable suitcase, and you’ll have no excuse not to shop for souvenirs (guilty!). Best for: Resort-based holidays, road trip adventures and formal affairs such as weddings or business trips. Our recommendation: Stylish yet large Samsonite Winfield Luggage
• Carry-on luggage is small, trusty and always in sight. If you want to avoid being weighed down by heavy bags and dealing with expensive baggage fees, this might be the right option for you. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a bag no larger than 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches and carry max. 100 ml bottles to avoid your favourite toiletries being confiscated by security. Best for: Long weekenders or business trips Our recommendation: Rockland Carry-on Luggage
• A Duffel is the kind of bag you need on standby for one of those out-of-the-blue weekend getaways. The pliability of a duffel bag makes it big enough to fit all your travel essentials, yet compact enough to squeeze into small spaces. Many modern duffels have handy features including wheels, back straps or a retractable handle for easy transportation. Best for: Travelling short distances or enjoying a long weekend away. Our recommendation: CAMTOP Weekend Travel Bag
• Backpacks are trusted travel companions for the adventurous traveller. Lightweight and less conspicuous than a clattering suitcase, – backpacks are designed to withstand the most demanding travel days, allowing hands-free travel and ease of movement, without sacrificing space. Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts or adventure travellers. Our recommendation: TETON Sports Explorer 65 L

Having your luggage organized eases the stress of travelling and saves you the hassle of rummaging through every corner of your case to track down the items you need. A good travel packing list and some nifty space-saving tips will keep you and your travel items organised.

• Cube your clothes . Gone are the days of desperately rifling through your chaotic case to find your favourite bikini before the sun goes down. On arrival to your hotel, you can simply move the cubes directly into the drawers of your hotel’s dresser and you’re all set. When shopping for a set of packing cubes, there are a few things to consider. Most cubes are made from lightweight nylon, making them durable and easy to wash. Some have mesh pouches, too, perfect for separating dirty laundry with clean clothes (which means we can finally lose the plastic bag!). I recently purchased Gonex Compression packing cubes , which do a great job of keeping wrinkles to a minimum.
• Roll, don’t fold. To maximise your space and stop creasing, roll your clothes before placing them in compression packs.
• Prevent Stains. Pack your light coloured clothes inside out. Covering your footwear with shoe bags or shower caps will keep your smelly shoes from touching your clean clothes.
• Stay fresh. Tuck some dryer sheets into the top and bottom of your luggage to keep your clothes smelling laundry-fresh throughout your trip.
• Separate your toiletries . Imagine arriving at your travel destination ready to rock your brand new holiday wardrobe, only to discover a gooey pile of clothes. It’s not fun, trust me. A good toiletry bag, with separate compartments, will protect your items from spills and make accessing your items easier. Read more about organising your travel toiletries in the following section.
• Separate your tech . Techy items and accessories are our most expensive travel items, yet they often get buried at the bottom of our bags, making them inaccessible and vulnerable to damage. A good electronics bag, with padded compartments and a waterproof exterior, is the most effective way to ensure your tech survives the trip.

Let’s be honest, organising your travel toiletry bag can feel a bit like trying to solve the Rubik’s Cube. The perfect toiletry bag should be spacious, practical, durable and thoughtfully designed to fit all of your toiletry essentials.

If you’re an organised traveller like me, the hanging toiletry bag with multiple compartments and pockets is your new best friend. And with a built-in hook, you can simply hang it the bathroom door for easy access. Hanging toiletry bags come in all different sizes. If you’re a heavy packer or travelling with your partner, this extra large hanging bag is a great option. Or for something smaller, this stylish bag offers a simple, yet smart design.

Now, toiletries are personal. Some are happy to travel with just a toothbrush, while others wouldn’t dare to hit the road without a full supply of moisturisers, mud scrubs and makeup for every occasion. My rule of thumb is to pack toiletries that I use daily. Nothing else. My basic toiletry packing list includes:

• Refillable travel bottles (Shampoo, conditioner, face wash, body wash)
• Dry Shampoo
• Facial moisturiser
• A razor and refills
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
• Birth control (if you take it)
• Daily Contact lenses (no need to pack solution)

Top Tip: Instead of forking out a small fortune on mini toiletries, purchase a pack of travel-size bottles online and fill them with your favourite products. It will save you standing in the travel aisle trying to find an alternative for your go-to shampoo!

I know the drill: you love the idea of disconnecting on your travels, yet the pressure of work emails and social media are just too much to bear. The good news is, tech doesn’t have to be a distraction. Adding the right travel gadgets to your packing list will only enhance your experiences, helping you travel smarter, safer and farther.

• Camera + Memory Card : Whether you’re a budding pro or an amateur photographer, you’ll want a camera that matches your level of experience and budget. If you are new to the photography game, perhaps opt for a lightweight and pocket-friendly Compact Digital Camera . For more advanced photographers, a Mirrorless Camera boasts an interchangeable lens without the weight of a DSLR.
• Smartphone . Large enough to binge watch your favourite TV shows, yet small enough to slide into the pocket of your chinos, smartphones are a great space-saving alternative to travelling with an iPad. We recommend the iPhone XS for its great camera.
• Headphones . Whether it’s the snoring passenger on your right or the screaming (but cute) baby on your left, high-quality headphones are key to enjoying a peaceful journey. Bose’s QuietComfort headphones don’t come cheap, but if you really want to enjoy uninterrupted music and entertainment – these beauties are worth their price tag.
• Universal travel adapter . Forget spending a small fortune on a single adapter at the airport or carrying a different travel adapter for each country you visit. Universal travel adapters are the way to go.
• Travel Speakers . Relaxing by the pool, listening to your summer soundtrack is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and in this wireless age of Bluetooth speakers, it’s easy to take your tunes on the road. The first thing to consider when purchasing travel speakers is solid sound quality, but they should also be portable, waterproof and have healthy battery life.
• Power bank . Okay, so it’s not sexy, but the portable power bank has become an essential accessory in my life, especially when I’m on the road. With a full power bank, you can travel safely in the knowledge that your phone will be ready to assist you on arrival. Larger packs can recharge your phone 4-6 times and your iPad 1-2 times. While there are a number of affordable power banks on the market, the Anker PowerCore is my top pick.
• Drone. What, a drone isn’t a travel essential? Sure, it might not be for everyone, but if you’re hot on your Instagram game, a travel drone will take your photography to new heights. You can pick up a decent travel drone on Amazon, but if you are after outstanding image quality, I recommend the DJI Mavic Air fly more pack to get extras for your money.
• Backpack for all your tech. It is a good idea to have a separate backpack for your tech. Nicely padded pockets for your camera, drone, phone, iPad, cables, batteries, etc. This bag can also contain your travel documents and other essentials as it will be with you on the plane. Our recommendation: Thule Aspect Backpack

Quick Tip: Remember to always pack batteries and battery pack in your carry-on as most airlines do not allow them in your checked in luggage.

You’ve spent months gearing up for this exotic getaway. Now’s not the time to let a stomach gripe, sleep deprivation or dehydration get between you and that beachside mojito. Yes, exotic foods, new climates and jet lag can play havoc with your health. So, the next time you prepare for a trip, keep these tips in mind for staying healthy on the go.

• Stay hydrated. Travelling by airplane can leave you feeling dehydrated before you’ve even arrived at your sun-soaked destination. Drinking more water means frequent bathroom stops, but it will also help your body beat jet lag and muscle fatigue. For me, Pocari Sweat is a great way to stay hydrated and recover from a long flight.
• Protect yourself against the sun. Sunburn and more severe sunstroke can have serious effects on your health and your holiday. Slather up before you expose yourself to the sun, retreat to the shade regularly throughout the day, and pack a hat and shades for day trips and hikes.
• Workout when you can. Healthy habits don’t have to die on holiday. Make your workouts work for you and be resourceful. Hike or bike a mountain trail, rise early for beach yoga, or complete a quick floor session in your hotel room. Remember, if you get to a location early, you can also avoid the crowds and take that perfect picture before anyone else.
• Pack a first aid kit. A basic travel health kit should include plasters, bandage tape, scissors, antiseptic, and painkillers (to soothe your head after too many of those beachside mojitos).
• Stomach Settlers. We’re all familiar with this one. Yep, stomach gripes are one of the most common health issues when travelling. Plenty of water, fibre-rich fruits and vegetables and exercise can all help relieve symptoms. If all else fails, pack a good stash of Settlers for the road.

I hear you – no one likes having a needle jabbed in their arm. But a 30-minute trip to your doctor could help protect you from serious diseases. Take proper precautions and you’ll feel better about saying “yes” to adventurous activities while travelling.

Some vaccinations can take up to a month to complete so start thinking about your travel health 3-6 months prior to your departure date. Some countries require proof of vaccination for yellow fever or polio. You can visit the UK’s “NHS Fit For Travel” website to learn which travel vaccinations are required for each country, and the “Malaria Hotspots” site to see if malaria protection is required in the countries you’re travelling to.

While these sites are a great starting point, I highly recommend checking in with your doctor for expert medical advice. If there’s one thing you don’t want to neglect in the midst of preparing for your travels, it’s your health.

It is often overlooked, travel insurance can literally save your life while abroad. Accidents happen and you don’t want to be unprepared. For a 1 week holiday, depending on your destination, you can expect to pay around $20-$50 which is nothing compared to the thousands of health care fees you could pay if you have no insurance.

🚨 Travel with peace of mind! Get comprehensive coverage via Insure My Trip , and enjoy worry-free adventures wherever you go!

Researching your travel destination not only helps you maximise your trip, but it also gives you important insight into the country that you’re travelling to. And in today’s digital world, we have instant access to research tools including Google Maps, Google Street View, YouTube, Facebook and insightful travel blogs (ahem, You Could Travel ) – all at the push of a button.

So, what are the key things to research before you travel?

• Holiday Activities . Much of my travel inspiration comes from Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest or travel blogs, but it’s also helpful to search Google for “Top 10 things to do in X” or “One week in X.” Check out forums like travel/r on Reddit where you can ask like-minded travellers questions about your destination, or for reviews on the top hotels, restaurants and activities, TripAdvisor is also a great tool.
• Ease of travel. Have you checked out the public transport system or downloaded Uber? It’s a good idea to check how to get from the airport to your hotel in advance.
• Climate . Checking the weather forecast can guide your packing strategy and your itinerary. Don’t let a rainy day dampen your excitement. Instead, book into the spa or plan a visit to your favourite museum.
• Currency . You’ll want to have some local currency in your pocket when you arrive at your destination, but it’s also wise to research exchange rates and ATM availability near your hotel.
• Visa Requirements . While not every country requires a visa, those that do vary in process and price, with some visas requiring an in-person appointment. So, when should you start researching visa requirements? Honestly. As soon as a destination is on your radar.
• Local customs. As a responsible traveller, I make it my mission to respect the local customs and laws of the destinations I travel to. Researching the local customs allows me to travel confidently and avoid offending anyone.
• Local Lingo. Attempting the local language can be daunting (and in my case, often embarrassing), yet it’s common courtesy to at least learn the basics of the country you are visiting.

Sure, there are a number of nifty travel apps that promise to replace paper documents. But what happens when your phone battery runs flat or there’s limited signal? Relying solely on digitised documents can wreak havoc with your travel plans. You can even get a fabulous travel organiser to keep everything neatly together.

Here are a few tips for organising your travel docs for a stress-free getaway:

• Passport & Visas. Your first task: check the expiration date on your passport. Remember, you’ll need at least 6 months to travel. Once you’re happy you’re covered, print out several copies. And since passports and visas are your most important travel documents, they deserve their own sleeve in your travel wallet.
• Travel & Hotel Documents. Next, organise your printed docs in the order in which you’ll need them, starting with printed boarding passes followed by train tickets, car hire vouchers, hotel confirmations and ground transportation.
• Special Docs. Recently married? Don’t forget a copy of your marriage certificate – you might need this for those all important upgrades and special touches! Other special documents may include copies of birth certificates (if your child has a different surname) and driving licence certificates (if you’re hiring a car overseas).
• Non-essential docs. Contact numbers for airlines, tour operators, credit card companies, and any coupons or restaurant reservations should be filed away at the back of your travel wallet.

The big question: How do you pack a carry-on to meet the requirements of airport security and the airlines, make sure important items are easily accessible, and remember to pack all the accessories for a comfortable flight? The list below will help you organise your carry-on better.

Check out our comprehensive guide on luggage sizes.

• Gels & Liquids . Make sure gels and liquids are 100ml or less. I travel frequently, yet I still find myself surrendering my favourite face wash at airport security. It’s an expensive mistake to make and it is usually the result of throwing items into your carry on luggage at an ungodly hour of the morning. Prepare your toiletries the night before you travel, placing them in a single clear ziplock bag and slotting them into an easily accessible pocket. And don’t forget the refillable bottles at home!
• Prohibited items. It sounds obvious, but avoid packing your favourite swiss knife in your carry-on. Other prohibited items include firearms, explosives, baseball bats or any other sharp items that could be considered a weapon. Be sure to check the security restrictions of the country you’re travelling to and from before you leave for the airport.
• Batteries & battery packs. Most airlines prohibit batteries in checked-in luggage . Always ensure that all batteries are places in your carry-on to avoid delays at the airport.
• Comfort and wellness essentials . An Inflatable pillow, earplugs (noise cancelling headphones) and a trusty eye mask are all items that I never travel without. Other essentials, like a refillable water bottle , travel moisturiser, face wipes and eye drop solution help minimize the effects of flying and leave you feeling refreshed on arrival.
• Entertainment. I like to keep it old school and travel with a real book (yes, I’m a dinosaur). That said, headphones are a must for when the lights go dim and the disgruntled baby next to you Just. Won’t. Stop. Crying.
• Helpful items. A power bank will help you stay charged from departure to destination. And pack a pen to avoid scrambling around at the arrivals desk.

Nothing ruins a relaxing holiday like returning to a smelly fridge, a huge electricity bill, or worse, a burst pipe. Here are a few simple hacks that will prepare and protect your home, so you can rest easy while you’re away.

• Unplug electronics. Unplug anything that doesn’t need power while you’re away, including TVs, laptop chargers and lamps. It will save energy and reduce the risk of fire. And while you’re at it, check the batteries in your smoke detector.
• Adjust your thermostat . Turning down the heating to a low temperature can help saving the planet and your bank account.
• Set your lights on timers. Remember the scene from Home Alone when Kevin creates a party scene in the window? Ok, you don’t need to go that far, but you can make your home less conspicuous by investing in a timer for your lights.
• Clean the house. I know – an arduous task when you’re already in holiday mode. But there’s nothing like coming home to a tidy house. Clean out the refrigerator, take out the rubbish, run the dishwasher and put away any laundry.
• Give your plants some TLC. Now’s the time to befriend your neighbour with a freshly baked cake in exchange for the watering of your plants while you’re out of town.
• Lock up. As you leave, make sure ALL the doors and windows are locked. If you’re anything like me, you’ll check, and then check again.

One final piece of advice: pack a positive attitude. Preparing for your travels can be pain-free, and dare I say, fun! Revel in the anticipation and the FOMO you’re about to cause on social media. Happy packing!

Cory Varga – Cory is a published travel writer and award-winning photographer. She travels full time with her husband and is passionate about creating in-depth travel guides. Cory published her first book on Japanese customs and manners because she’s obsessed with everything Japan. She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester.

Related Articles

Flexispot Standing Desk Review

Level8 luggage review

Best walking shoes for women

Things to do on a Princess Cruise

Sherwood Hideaway Review

Regal Princess Review

One response to “our ultimate travel packing list for beginner and advanced travellers”.

Traveling is one of the ways I have fun and unwind. Business class flights to East Africa were enjoyable for me and allowed me to save some money, which I used to pay for additional excursions and gifts for friends.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Search the website

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

The Ultimate Travel Packing List

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Creating my Travel Packing List was my least favorite part of planning our Around the World Trip. When I sought out help, the general travel checklist I found was of little use. I wanted – I needed –  a detailed list of what to pack for my trip. 

With little assistance, I floundered through the process of creating my own travel packing checklist – but I succeeded! Now, I’m sharing my list of travel essentials – including very specific details about what to pack for a trip – in this Ultimate Travel Checklist. 

Best Travel Packing List

When I was determining what things to pack for my trip, I was torn between being a minimalist traveler and the fact that I was packing for a year-long adventure that would span all seasons. (Most travelers aren’t faced with this challenge, so I share important tips about how to create a packing list for a week or two throughout this post!) 

Furthermore, as a budget-conscious traveler, I was faced with creating a travel packing checklist that included essential travel items, plus several Just-In-Case items, so that I wouldn’t have to buy them on the road. It was a strenuous task, but I am now convinced that I have created the Ultimate Packing List.  

My detailed packing list includes every item I carry – as well as the bags I carry it all in – with detailed specifics of those travel items, too. 

It is, perhaps, important to note that while we are full-time travelers, what I pack does not differ greatly from what I would pack for a week-long vacation. Whether you are looking for an international travel packing list for a week in Europe or a backpacking packing list for a month-long trip to Southeast Asia, our universal packing list can help!

In this post, I talk in detail about my trip packing list – including why some items are necessary and which items can be left behind.

To help fellow travelers, we also have a printable travel checklist that we share – download our free checklist for packing, plus get other valuable travel tips!

Travel Packing Trouble

I’ve never met anyone who loves packing for a trip. In fact, I think packing for a vacation is the most daunting, upcoming-trip-buzz-killer there is. Incorporating necessities for traveling, comfort and style – and resisting the urge to pack everything you own – can be a real struggle.

I used to be an over-packer with a long packing list that went on forever. I was the traveler who checked two large suitcases for a one-week vacation…and only wore about a fifth of what was packed. However, those days of arriving at a hotel amongst a pile of suitcases are long behind me.

The more I traveled, the savvier I became. Coordinated outfits, essential toiletries and sensible shoes were the items I packed. I had a streamlined formula that destroyed my packing dilemma. I could pack for a week-long, overseas trip in about an hour; for weekend jaunts, I could pack and be out the door in 20 minutes’ time.

Travel Packing List for Year-Long Trip

When we decided to spend a year traveling the world, I contemplated what I would carry…and all of my packing angst returned. I spent weeks poring over packing checklists, agonizing over what would make the cut and fretting what would be left behind.

I read travel blogs that insisted I needed over-priced travel products on my list for packing; a farce I regrettably fell for regarding some items and good advice I carelessly dismissed regarding others. Yet, I retained enough self-awareness to know some travel items would never make my world travel packing list.

On the day we boarded that long haul flight to begin our around the world journey , my biggest source of stress was worrying over what I had packed.

Our one year of full-time travel turned into two…and two years turned into three. In that time, my packing worries diminished. Packing is no longer a source of anguish; I’m happy with my packing choices. Since we started our nomadic life in April 2014, what I carry in my backpack has barely changed – only requiring a few small adjustments and tweaks.

{For more insight to packing for long-term travel, read our post, What I Packed to Travel the World }

Packing for Vacation List

Somewhat surprisingly, creating a packing list for vacation is not that different from creating a long-term travel packing list. Travelers going on a trip to a neighboring state or on a vacation to the other side of the world can use my sample packing list as a guideline of what to bring. 

When packing for a long trip – anything over a week and definitely when packing for a two-week vacation or longer – determine if you can do laundry during your trip. This will help keep your clothing packing list to a minimum. 

Every traveler should tailor their packing checklist to the specific destination. When packing for a trip, keep in mind the weather and activities you will be participating in. Also, determine whether or not you will need to bring electronics (like laptops) and what kind of travel camera you want to bring on your trip. 

Ultimate Packing List For World Travel and Vacations

My packing list seldom varies, but if I add (or get rid of!) anything to what I pack, I update this Packing List.

I’ve provided a link to each item so you can see if it will work for your packing list for travel. I have attempted to link to the exact product (make, model and color) that I own, but some of the things I pack are no longer available. In that case, I’ve linked to a similar product.

I share my packing list information in an effort to help other travelers create their packing lists for vacation, but packing is extremely personal. Above all, my best packing advice: Pack What’s Comfortable!

Get Your FREE Packing Checklist!

TRAVEL CLOTHES

When it comes to making a travel items list, the best place to start is with clothing.

I pack clothes that can be worn in all weather; the items I carried in my backpack to Iceland in winter   are the same as when we travel to Vietnam . While my list of clothes to pack will likely work for travelers making a vacation packing list for California in the spring (when it’s warm during the day and cool at night) or to Croatia in the autumn , I think summer or winter travelers should plan clothing that is better suited for the hot or cold weather.

Likewise, if you are creating a beach vacation packing list – or are packing for a cruise to the Arctic –  then you will want to tailor your checklist to weather-appropriate gear.

Pro Tip: All clothing on your travel items list should be of the same color scheme to create a travel capsule wardrobe. This is a great hack for packing light – as you will need to pack fewer clothing items overall. Find out more about creating your capsule wardrobe and other top tips in our Packing Hacks article!

Pants, Skirts and Dresses: Vacation Packing List Tips

My trip packing checklist includes a variety of bottoms – including jeans, yoga pants, leggings, capris, a skirt and a skort – but I only pack one pair of each. Many minimalist travelers warn against packing heavy jeans, but honestly, I love wearing jeans – so they make my packing list for vacation and world travel.

One thing that I don’t travel with is zip-off, convertible pants – and here is why: I am not comfortable wearing them. I do think they are brilliant – and I would even say they are backpacking essentials if you are an adventure traveler or extreme minimalist.

However, as I mentioned earlier, you must be comfortable in the clothes you wear on your trip. I packed zip-off pants for my first trip to Europe and I hated wearing them because I didn’t think they were fashionable (I will admit, however, that the styles have come a long way since then!).

In warmer weather destinations, I love wearing dresses for long days of sightseeing…but they are also great for cool weather, when I can warm up the outfit with leggings and my thin hoodie. (This is why matching all clothing items is key!) My dresses are casual, loose-fitting and non-revealing (so that I am able to visit attractions – like churches and temples – in destinations where modesty is required).

Pack for Travel List: Pants, Skirts and Dresses 

• 1 pair jeans (or casual pants  or zip-off pants )
• 1 pair loose yoga pants with pockets
• 1 pair moisture-wicking  leggings
• 1 pair cargo  capris or shorts
• 1 thin, cotton  skirt
• 2 casual dresses
• 1 casual  skort

Long Sleeve Shirts, Short Sleeve Shirts and Tank Tops: Travel Packing List Advice

When we first left to travel the world, I didn’t pack enough shirts – I only had 1 tank top, 2 t-shirts and 3 long sleeve shirts in my bag. It was a huge mistake, as I was constantly doing laundry in both warm and cold weather climates. I have since added additional shirts without adding too much weight to my bag, which has resulted in seriously cutting down on the time I spend doing sink laundry!

That said, washable, quick-drying, non-wrinkling shirts are packing essentials. Pay close attention to the materials of the clothing you pack. If you need to wash a shirt on the road, you want to know that it will dry quickly – and that any wrinkles will shake out of clothing after taking it out of your bag.

Travel List to Pack for Shirts and Tops

• 4 long sleeve quick drying shirts
• 1 long sleeve cotton shirt
• 3  tank tops
• 1 thin  camisole  used for bottom layer or beachwear
• 3 loose fitting  t-shirts
• 1 thin, zip up  hoodie

Undergarments, Pajamas and Swimsuits: Packing Lists Tips

It seems to me that most travelers either over-pack or under-pack undergarments. Those who over-pack argue that you should have 1 (and sometimes 2!) pairs of underwear and socks for every day of the trip.

Minimalist packers contend that undergarments are the easiest to sink wash and the quickest to dry, so there is no reason to pack more than 5 pairs of each for any length trip. I pack 8 pairs of underwear and 8 pairs of socks (which is also what I recommend for anyone who is making a packing list for a week or longer).

ExOfficio underwear are all the rage for travelers – but, personally, they haven’t lived up to my expectations due to an awkward fit, color breakdown and ripped elastic. I still travel with them (mostly because of the money I shelled out to buy them), but I much more prefer wearing the breathable Fruit of the Loom bikini underwear – which cost a mere fraction of the price of ExOfficio.

Travel Packing Checklist for Undergarments

• 1 set of  pajamas
• 1 bikini swimwsuit (choose one swimsuit that fits your style)
• 4  Exofficio underwear
• 4 Fruit of the Loom underwear
• 2 sport bras
• 2 bras and 1 racerback bra
• 6 athletic socks
• 2 socks for flats or slip on shoes
• 1 fuzzy socks or travel slippers
• 1 compression socks

Travel Outerwear: Coats, Gloves, Hats, Scarves and Wraps

We travel in all seasons, so I pack a variety of caps and gloves (as I found they were necessary after we first started traveling). However, for a shorter, destination-specific trip, I would choose between thin and wool, rather than packing both. And, quite obviously, winter apparel is completely unnecessary if making a beach trip packing list. 

The most multi-function clothing item I pack is my wrap – and, in my opinion, it is an essential item for travelers. In addition to its obvious purpose, I have used mine as a beach towel, bath towel, picnic blanket, airport blanket and bus pillow. The one I carry is black, thin and cost around $10…and I use it all the time.

I have – unfortunately – gone through several pairs of sunglasses since we started traveling. I started with my favorite – and expensive – pair of  Maui Jim sunglasses , but lost them while in Ireland. After that, I went ultra-cheap…and wasn’t surprised when three consecutive pairs broke just after a few weeks of use. I currently travel with a moderately-priced pair of polarized sunglasses, which are sufficient…but not heartbreaking if they get lost or broken. (That said, I am looking forward to the day I upgrade to Maui Jim’s again!)

List of What To Pack for Outerwear 

• 1 lightweight zip up fleece (with zip pockets)
• 1 water resistant jacket (which fits over fleece)
• 2 fashion scarves (or a secret zippered pocket Travel Scarf )
• 1 versatile  wrap
• 1 baseball cap (or travel hat )
• 1 thin winter cap
• 1 warm winter cap
• 1 pair of thin winter gloves (with touchscreen functionality)
• 1 pair of wool mittens
• Sunglasses for travel

Travel Shoes: Packing Advice

When it comes to shoes, I think most travelers can get by with just 3 pairs. Shoes take up too much space to pack any more than that. Make sure the shoes you choose for your trip go with all of your outfits and – most importantly – that they are comfortable for exploring. 

For more detailed information about what shoes to pack for your trip, read our blog post, The Best Travel Shoes !

Shoes for Travel Packing Checklist

• 1 pair walking shoes for sightseeing and hiking
• 1 pair casual shoes (or casual travel flats or foldable flats )
• 1 pair flip flops

TRAVEL TOILETRIES LIST

When it comes to your toiletries packing list, it is important to strike a balance between space-saving items and short-changing yourself. Our best recommendation when packing toiletries is to consider the overall length of your trip. If you are packing for two weeks or less, it is best to pack travel-size toiletries.

That said, bathroom essentials are available all around the world, so replacing these items while traveling is not likely an issue. If you are packing for a long trip, it might be better to bring some full size toiletries (but it really depends on where you are going and how much it would cost to replace them at your destination).

Pro Tip : One more thing to consider is that the price of sunscreen and shaving cream is ridiculously inflated in some of the top destinations around the world, so it’s best to pack an ample supply.

Essential Travel Toiletries Tips

Re-fillable travel bottles are the way to go for bathroom essentials like lotions and shampoo. Many travelers swear by the GoToob brand. If you don’t have travel size bottles, however, many travel-size items are sold together in a convenient toiletry travel kit . 

I used to travel with disposable facial cloths (cut into halves or quarters to make the box last longer), but now just use regular soap to wash my face. I have also used soap or hair conditioner instead of shaving cream.

Essential Travel Toiletries List

• Toiletry bag with hanger (for bathrooms where there is a hook, but no counter space)
• Travel size Bar Soap (just in case it is not provided at our accommodations)
• Shampoo Conditioner 2-in-1 (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
• Travel size Shaving Cream
• Travel size Hair Brush
• Electric Toothbrush
• Travel size Toothpaste
• Retainers (with case and special brush)
• Unscented Body Lotion (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
• Facial Cleansing Wipes and/or Individual Makeup Remover Wipes
• Everyday Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen
• Full or Travel size Deodorant
• Kleenex travel pack
• Toilet paper (folded in a snack-size ziplock or these handy travel rolls )
• Tweezers, Nail Clippers, Nail File Kit
• Cuticle Cream
• Quick-dry Washcloth

Makeup and Travel Essentials for Women: Advice for What To Pack

While we do include makeup on this packing list for women, I recommend keeping it simple with just a few makeup travel bag essentials.

Also, ladies, don’t forget to put feminine products on your travel essentials list! In some countries – like many in South America and several in Europe – the choice of feminine products isn’t as liberal as in other parts of the world (like the United States). If you have a preference for tampons, you should pack them, as they may not be available where you are traveling. Some female travelers like to use the Diva Cup . 

Women Travel Essentials List

• Face Powder
• Face Powder Brush and Concealer Brush
• Eyelash Curler (travel size)
• Feminine products
• Simple Fashion Jewelry

Travel First Aid Bag: Advice for Packing Lists

My first aid travel bag is one of my must-have travel items. I carry an assortment of medications (both prescription and over the counter) that are within easy reach if I need them.

Medicine bottles can take up a lot of space and it can be tempting to just mix all the medications together, which isn’t ideal. I use small, individual  jars  with screw caps to store medications – and use a marker to label each bottle. A weekly pill box could also work in a travel first aid kit.

For more of our tips, read our blog post Staying Healthy While Traveling !

First Aid Kit List of What To Pack

• Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer
• No-rinse hand cloths or Wet Ones Wipes
• Band Aids,   Antiseptic and Cortizone Cream
• Tums and Anti-diarrhea
• Dayquil and Emergen-C
• Anti-histamine
• Sea bands (for motion sickness)
• Medications

TRAVEL ODDS AND ENDS

All of our odds and ends items may not be necessary for a weekend packing list, but a few of these items are all-star travel accessories…and you might already have them around the house.

Check out our list of Everyday Items for Travel for tips on why you should pack these items!

Pack for Travel: List of Just in Case Items

• Silk Sleep Sack
• Sleeping Mask and Ear Plugs (this is one of our essentials for Long Haul Flights )
• Water Bottle (these collapsible water bottles are great for travelers!)
• Bottle Opener
• Mini Mag Light Flashlight
• Mini roll of duct tape
• Binder clips , carabiner clips and rubber bands
• Re-sealable plastic bags: sandwich and gallon size
• Combination lock
• Small Scissors , Sewing kit and extra safety pins
• Travel size laundry detergent (for machine and sink )
• Travel Umbrella
• Playing Cards
• Business cards (hey, you never know!)
• Travel Journal
• 2 pens and 1 marker

TRAVEL ELECTRONICS

As digital nomads, carrying all of these electronics are essential. It does, however, complicate travel days, so we only recommend that you pack what you will really use on your trip!

Electronics Travel Items List

• Cell phone, iPhone, iPad, iPod
• Laptop (similar to this slim Samsung Notebook ) or Tablet (like a  Kindle )
• External Hard Drive
• DSLR Camera (with slim camera case and extra battery )
• Point and Shoot Camera (with case )
• SD Card (2)
• Headphones (2)
• Cords and battery chargers
• Universal Converter
• Portable Wifi and Charger Power Bank
• Portable Speaker
• 128GB thumb drive (3)

What We Pack In For Travel

What we pack in is just as important as the items on our packing checklist. When flying to a destination, you will need to consider whether you want to deal with checked luggage or carry on only – as that can have a big impact on your list of what to pack. If you do decide to check a bag, read our tips on how to avoid your luggage getting lost .

We carry backpacks, rather than suitcases, because we think it is a more efficient way to travel. You can read more about the pros and cons of both in our article, Backpack vs Suitcase !

Either way, the actual size of your luggage is a major consideration when creating your packing list for traveling. Both your luggage size and weight can incur extra baggage fees if traveling by plane. 

Travelers attempting to avoid extra fees will likely want to stick to a Trip Essentials list – rather than including any just-in-case items that can be purchased on arrival if needed.  

• Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes are the top item on our travel accessories list (and one of our best overall packing tips)! We splurged on packing cubes and compression bags before we started traveling full-time – and it was, without a doubt, one of the very best pre-travel purchases we made.

We cannot imagine traveling without them as they help to save space and organize our travel gear. For more details, read about the benefits of Packing Cubes in our post, 5 Ways Packing Cubes Make Travel Easier !

I travel with a Messenger Bag – which doubles as my Carry-On and my Day Pack. When traveling by plane, it is essential to take a carry-on size personal item onto the plane that will fit under your seat. We feature other styles of day bags in our blog post, Which is the Best Day Pack for Travel ?

What Bags To Pack: Travelers Packing Checklist

• Lowe Alpine Walkabout 45 backpack (similar to this backpack ) &  Osprey Farpoint (for Kris)
• Messenger Bag or other Day Bag
• Compression Bags
• Passport and document organizer (for extra credit cards, plus extra copies of passports and travel documents)
• Money Belt and Bra Stash or Neck Pouch
• Wallet and Small purse
• Foldable, reusable shopping bag  

Trip Documents

I have covered the top things to pack for a trip, but don’t forget to put your trip documents on your Travel Necessity list! 

Plane tickets and boarding passes, hotel reservation information and trip insurance documentation all need to be packed in your bag. And, don’t forget your driver’s license, credit cards and cash. 

For an International Packing List, make sure you have your passport and international driver’s license (if needed). I also highly recommend including a No-International-Fee credit card for your Overseas Travel Packing List – to avoid paying extra fees. It’s also wise to make copies of important documents to pack separately from the originals – just is case. 

Also pack your Travel Planner with your trip itinerary, hotel reservations and other trip details. Don’t have a trip planner? Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of your trip plans!

Tips for Specific Packing Lists

My Ultimate Travel List covers the entire contents of my luggage for full-time, Around The World travel. But what if you are a traveler seeking a 2 Week Travel Packing List or need a packing list for beach vacation? No worries – using my Ultimate Packing Checklist as a base and a few of my top tips, you can create your best checklist for traveling. 

What To Pack for a Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Creating a packing checklist for vacation for a week is not that different from my worldwide travel pack list. That said, travelers creating a One Week Packing List will certainly want to swap out a few items from my list of travel essentials above. 

Rather than choosing items to pack for a trip that work in both hot and cold climates, select apparel and accessories for your One Week Travel Packing list that are in season. 

For example, if going to a cold weather destination, you likely won’t need to pack capris, shorts, a skirt or skort (but you still may want to pack one dress for an evening out). However, instead of just eliminating these items, you want to swap them out for cold weather items – like another pair of jeans and a comfy pair of sweatpants. 

Additionally, for a 1-Week Vacation Packing Checklist, determine what Odds and Ends and Electronic items are necessary for your trip. Items like a combination lock, sleep sack and a laptop might not need to be packed for your trip. 

What To Pack for a 2 Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Packing for a two week trip requires little adjustment from my detailed packing list above – but only if you have access to a washing machine. 

Travelers creating a 2 Week Packing List without access to laundry facilities at the halfway mark of their trip will be required to either pack a lot more clothing or do sink laundry. 

That said, travelers not planning on doing laundry during their two week trip do not necessarily need to pack 14 complete outfits. Pants and sweatshirts that go over another shirt could possibly be worn more than once on your trip without being washed. 

As you make your two week travel packing list, resist the temptation to pack more than you need for your trip – as heavy luggage will weigh you down! 

Beach Vacation Travel Necessities List

Beach vacations require a specific list of travel essentials that differs slightly from my outlined list above. 

For a dedicated beach vacation, I highly recommend bringing at least 2 (if not 3) swimsuits so that each suit can be rinsed and have time to dry in between beach and pool sessions. 

Additionally, your Beach Essential Travel Packing List needs to include ample sun protection. It is wise to bring plenty of sunscreen (either a large sunscreen that will need to be checked or two TSA-approved size carry on bottles of sunscreen ) – as well as a travel hat that will provide shade from the sun. Water shoes , a beach towel, a waterproof bag for your phone and snorkel gear are other travel packing essentials for the beach. 

Complete Travel Check Off List

I have listed every item that I pack for traveling in order to help you come up with your ultimate list. That said, travel packing lists are very personal – and not necessarily the same for every single trip.

To get started with your perfect Vacation Travel Packing list, it’s best to write down the items you intend to pack in your suitcase. To help, we have created an ideal Travel Packing List template. If you want our printable lists for packing, get them here .

Start planning your next big trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

• Carry-On Luggage
• Checked Luggage
• Convertible Carry Luggage
• 4-Wheel Luggage
• 2-Wheel Luggage
• New Arrivals

Adventure-ready wheeled carry-on & checked luggage

• Packing Cubes
• Compression Cubes
• Toiletry Bags
• E-Organization
• Garment Folders
• Sacks & Pouches

Compress bulky items, separate dirty shoes or clothes, and maximize luggage space while packing

• Carry-On Duffels
• Large Duffels
• Rolling Duffels
• Backpack Duffels

Designed & constructed to minimize fabric waste

• Carry-On Backpacks
• Waist & Shoulder Bags
• Travel & Hiking Backpacks

With practical packs & bags for commutes, extended trips, and everyday use

• Luggage Tags & Locks
• Comfort & Necessities
• Money Belts
• RFID Security

With Undercover Hidden Pockets, Money Belts, and more

• Travel Blog
• Sustainability
• No Matter What Warranty
• Find a Store

Find travel tips, adventure checklists, packing hacks & more in our Travel Blog

The Ultimate Travel Packing List: How to Pack for Any Vacation

A well-prepared vacation packing list is crucial for a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Whether you're a first-time adventurer or a seasoned globetrotter, having a comprehensive travel packing list ensures you're equipped with all the essentials for your journey. 

Knowing exactly what to pack, from toiletries to tech gadgets, makes it much easier to get the job done, giving you more time to focus on the anticipation of your upcoming trip. 

In this guide, we'll discuss the essential components of a packing list for vacation. Whether you're jetting off for a cultural experience , planning a relaxing weekend getaway, or embarking on a long-term exploration of the world, our detailed checklists and expert tips have you covered. 

Ready to pack like a pro? Keep reading this travel checklist to explore the must-have items and smart packing strategies to ensure you're prepared for any adventure. 

Essential Packing Checklist for Stress-Free Travel

What to pack in your personal item, how to choose the right travel bag for your trip, seasonal and destination-specific packing advice, how to pack efficiently: tips and tricks, prepare your home before you leave.

• Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist

Going on a vacation should be filled with anticipation and excitement, not stress over what to pack. That's why having an essential travel packing checklist is crucial for ensuring smooth and hassle-free experiences. Whether traveling on budget airlines , exploring a new city, lounging on a beach, or trekking through the wilderness, having the right items packed can make all the difference. Dive into our comprehensive travel checklist to learn what to pack for your next adventure. 

Ensuring you pack the proper clothing is essential for comfort, style, and adaptability during your travels. One of our favorite travel hacks  is to pack versatile clothing that allows you to mix and match outfits and pack light . Doing so minimizes the number of items you need to bring while ensuring you're prepared for various activities and weather conditions. 

Check the weather forecast for where you're going and pack accordingly, including layers for unpredictable weather. If there's a chance of rain, consider bringing a light, waterproof jacket so you won't be stuck inside all day. Additionally, opt for comfortable footwear and travel shoes  for walking and exploring. And don't forget to pack swimwear if you'll be hitting the beach or lounging by the pool. 

Other clothing items you might consider packing include: 

• Button-up shirts
• Lightweight jacket
• Winter jacket

Undergarments

• Comfortable shoes
• Dress shoes

Accessories

Active wear.

• Athletic clothes
• Athletic shoes

Maintaining personal hygiene and having essential first-aid items on hand is vital for staying healthy and comfortable during your travels. Proper toiletries ensure you feel refreshed and clean, which is especially important on a camping trip . Meanwhile, a first-aid kit  can relieve minor injuries and ailments. 

Transfer toiletries into travel-sized containers to save space and comply with TSA carry-on rules . Include essentials like toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Don't forget to also protect yourself from harmful UV rays and pesky bugs with sunscreen and insect repellent. 

What else should you include when packing a toiletry bag ? Here's a more comprehensive travel packing list for toiletries and first-aid items you should bring with you: 

• Hair brush or comb
• Skincare products
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Shaving kit
• Contact lenses
• Nail clippers
• Hair products
• Perfume/cologne

Travel health

• Pain reliever
• Fever reducers
• Cold medicines
• Diarrhea/laxative medicines
• Personal prescriptions
• Throat lozenges
• Sunburn relief
• Insect repellent
• Antibacterial ointment
• Hand sanitizer
• First aid kit

Electronics

Electronics are necessities for navigation, communication, and capturing memories with a digital travel journal  on your adventures. Ensuring you have the right electronics packed keeps you connected and entertained throughout your journey. A few electronic items to bring include: 

• Smartphone and charger
• Camera or GoPro
• Portable power banks
• Adapter and converter

Keep your smartphone and charger in an easily accessible place to grab immediately after stepping off the plane. Consider bringing a portable power bank to stay powered on the go and recharge your devices when you don't have access to an outlet. 

Additionally, if traveling internationally, pack an adapter and converter to ensure compatibility with local power outlets. 

Personal items

When traveling, it's essential to have your personal items organized and readily accessible. These items include crucial documents, payment methods, and other essentials that ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. 

Travel Documents

• Visa (if required for your destination)
• Travel itinerary or reservations
• Copies of tickets
• Travel insurance information
• Driver's license or ID card
• Health insurance card

Financial items

• Cash (both local currency and some USD for emergencies)
• Credit cards and debit cards
• Traveler's checks
• Emergency contact information

Travel security 

Ensuring your safety and security while traveling should be your highest priority. Consider packing items that enhance your security and peace of mind during your journey, such as: 

• Neck wallet
• Undercover Bra Stash  for credit cards and cash only
• Incognito All Terrain Money Belt , which looks like a real belt!
• Luggage Travel Lock
• Reflective clothing and luggage accessories
• Bring a headlamp or mini flashlight; it is better to be safe than unprepared

Wear a money belt or use a hidden pouch to keep valuables such as cash, passports, and credit cards safe and secure. Meanwhile, wearing reflective clothing can make you more visible if you are out and about in low-light conditions or areas with heavy traffic. 

For added security in your hotel, consider bringing a portable door lock or door alarm to reinforce door security and provide peace of mind while sleeping. 

You can also invest in travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected emergencies, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Your personal item should include anything you want to keep on you while traveling. For instance, if you're taking a long flight and need something to do, you might bring a tablet with games for entertainment.

If you’re traveling to multiple destinations, your bag should include everything you need to stay comfortable. It's always nice to have an easy-to-access bag so you don't have to get into your luggage each time you need your eye mask. But remember, you'll be carrying this throughout your entire journey, so keep it light.

Consider using a small daypack , shoulder bag , or waist pack  as your personal carry-on item. Here are some essential items to include in your carry-on bag packing list:

• Mobile device, charger, and charging cable
• Laptop, iPad, or E-reader and charger(s)
• Headphones (consider noise-reducing headphones if you're sensitive to sound)
• Camera and GoPro/video camera, memory card, and chargers
• Electrical converters and adapters
• Electronics organizer
• Travel documents
• Comfort items like a travel pillow
• Water bottle 
• Books or e-books for entertainment

Before you decide what to pack for your vacation, it's crucial to find a versatile travel bag that fits all your stuff and is easy to carry. Consider the length of your trip, whether it's an international vacation , whether you'll be using budget airlines , and your primary activities. All of these considerations impact which bag is best for your trip.

Wherever you plan to go, pick versatile, lightweight, and big luggage to hold all your travel items. Ensure your bag has a warranty covering any potential damages or defects. Traveling with a piece of luggage with a broken wheel, handle, or zipper is the absolute worst! Brands that back their gear with stand-up warranties build that promised durability into their gear.

Here are some of our favorite bags for travel:

• Rolling Luggage : Let's face it; wheels are nice. If you'll be traveling in a city with paved roads and sidewalks, there's no need to carry all your gear on your back or via a duffle bag. You may even want to consider a bag with off-road wheels, which is extra durable for trips even when there isn't a smooth path.    
• 4-Wheels : As you fill up your wheeled luggage, weight can become a bit restrictive—especially if you have to walk long distances. Consider 4-wheels to keep the weight off your wrist and effortlessly roll your bag by your side.
• Duffel Bag : These are simple and lightweight, and Eagle Creek's duffel bags are crazy durable. Sling it over your shoulder, or put some wheels on it and get on your way. These are the most versatile travel solutions, from classic duffels  to convertible backpacks , rolling duffel bags , and more.    
• Wheeled Backpack : If you'll be traveling through different terrains or switching from airports to cobblestones, having a bag that can be rolled or carried like a backpack or duffel is really handy.
• Travel Backpack : If you don't want the extra weight of wheels, traveling with a classic backpack  will mean hands-free mobility and ultimate versatility.
• Carry-On : Whenever possible, travel with carry-on luggage. This means you can save time at the airport, save on check-in fees, guarantee that the airlines won't lose your bag, have everything you need with you at all times, and ensure that you don't have to wait at baggage claim.

Travel Tip: Picking the right travel luggage is an important step not only on this trip but on all of your future trips as well. Use Eagle Creek's Buying Guide for luggage , travel packs, carry-ons, and duffel bags to find the right bag for your travel style and situation. You may need more than one bag in your collection, but you can narrow down the choices based on what is most useful and fits everything you need to pack for your vacations.

Understanding where you're going and when is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.

Seasons change, and knowing the type of weather you might run into can help you decide what to pack. For instance, you should pack clothing suitable for the climate at your destination. Research the weather forecast for the time of year you'll be traveling and pack accordingly.

Bring layers like sweaters, jackets, and scarves to stay warm in colder seasons. Consider thermal underwear if you're visiting extremely cold regions. Conversely, opt for lightweight and breathable clothing in warmer seasons to keep cool and comfortable. Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

In addition to understanding the general seasons, choose clothing items suitable for the weather conditions at your destination. For instance, waterproof or windproof outer layers are essential for rainy or windy climates. Pack different items you can layer or remove to adapt to changing weather conditions throughout your trip.

Packing efficiently also means packing light to ensure you're not spending most of your time dragging along your luggage. Here are some tips and tricks to help you pack efficiently: 

• Choose the right luggage : Opt for lightweight, durable luggage that meets your travel needs. Consider size, weight, and functionality when selecting your suitcase or under-the-seat bag . Additionally, choose a carry-on-sized bag whenever possible to avoid checked baggage fees and streamline the process. 
• Make a packing list: You can make your own vacation packing list or use our premade list to organize your belongings and ensure you don't forget anything important. You can divide your list into categories like clothing, toiletries, electronics, and accessories for easier packing. 
• Use packing cubes: Compression packing cubes  can compartmentalize your clothing and accessories, keeping similar items together and maximizing space in your luggage. Knowing how to use packing cubes  is crucial to maximizing the space in your bag. Assign specific cubes for different categories of items, such as tops, bottoms, underwear, and accessories. This makes it easy to find your essentials quickly without rummaging through your entire suitcase. 
• Pack different clothing items: Choose clothes you can mix and match to create multiple ensembles. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that can be rolled instead of folded to save space and minimize creases. 
• Roll your clothes: Roll your clothes instead of folding them inside your suitcase to save space and reduce wrinkles. Place heavier clothes like jeans or jackets on the bottom of your bag and lighter clothes on the top to distribute the weight evenly. 
• Plan for laundry: Pack a small travel-sized detergent or laundry soap to wash your clothes on the go. Many accommodations offer laundry facilities or services, allowing you to freshen up your wardrobe during your trip. Bring a lightweight, collapsible laundry bag to separate dirty and clean clothes and organize your luggage. 
• Minimize toiletries: Pack travel-size toiletries or transfer liquids to reusable containers to save space and comply with airline regulations. Also, consider purchasing toiletries at your destination to reduce the weight of your luggage. 
• Limit shoes: Pack only a few pairs of shoes that are suitable for various activities and occasions. Consider wearing your bulkiest or heaviest pair of shoes while traveling to save space in your luggage. 

Preparing your home before you leave for a trip is a crucial part of your travel packing to-do list for ensuring peace of mind and security while you're away. Here are a few things you should do before you leave for your travels:

• Ensure all windows and doors are locked.
• Unplug electronics and appliances while you're gone to reduce the risk of electrical fires and malfunctions.
• Have someone collect your mail, packages, and newspapers to prevent them from piling up and making your home look unoccupied.
• Before you leave, perform necessary maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the refrigerator, emptying the trash, and watering plants.
• Use timers or smart light bulbs to schedule lights to turn on and off at different times throughout the day to make it look like you're home.
• Store valuables like jewelry, cash, and important documents in a safe or lockbox. Avoid leaving valuable items visible from windows or doors to minimize the risk of theft.
• Provide a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member with a spare key and emergency contact information in case of unforeseen issues or emergencies. 

Everyday basics

• Phone and charger
• Water bottle
• Travel pillow
• Camera and charger
• Electric converters & adapters
• Travel journal & pen
• Reading materials

Travel gear

• Main travel bag
• Pack-It™ packing cubes
• Comfort & security items
• Day bag & travel wallet
• Passport/visa
• Driver’s license
• Health insurance documents
• Transportation tickets
• Emergency information
• Reservation information
• Hotel information
• Cash & credit/ATM card
• Guide books & maps
• Copies of tickets/passports

DOWNLOAD THE TRAVEL PACKING CHECKLIST

Read more from the travel blog, beach vacation packing list: what to pack for a beach vacation.

The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List: Your Key to Stress-Free Travel Nothing says summer like the sound of the ocean,...

Packing for a trip? Our travel checklist has you covered. This complete list covers what things to pack for international...

The Definitive Hawaii Packing List Based on Your Travel Goals

Hawaii is often referred to as the Paradise of the Pacific. With 750 miles of dramatic coastline to explore, mountains...

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.

The Travel Essentials Packing List

Our  Signature Packing Lists are your ultimate guide to packing light. Whether you’re a fashionista or a no-frills traveler, these lists are made for you to customize to fit your own personal style.

This isn’t your average packing list! The clothing shown has been carefully selected and offers you brands, colors, fabrics, and functionality that will help make planning your travel wardrobe a breeze.

By including a combination of well-known travel brands along with your favorite retailers, you’ll find that you really can find a happy balance between travel and fashion!

Pack like a pro with Travel Fashion Girl and don’t forget to download your  free printable packing checklist!

Please keep in mind that each item shown represents visual ideas of how you can create a custom travel wardrobe.  Read this guide to learn how to adapt the items to the styles and color palette of your choice. For a complete introduction to creating a travel wardrobe, please read  Pack Light Stylishly .

Maxi Dress  |  Sleeveless  |  Blouse  |  Tee  |  Cami Top  |  Tank Top  |  Skirt  |  Pants  | Jeans  |  Dress  |  Flats  |  Sandal  |  Sunglasses  |  Bag

You can use the Travel Essentials Packing List as a sample travel wardrobe as a stand alone minimalist packing list or as the main core of your clothing.   Long term travelers can use this list as well as vacation-goers. Keep reading to learn how.

Consisting of ten pieces of clothing, these are the essentials chosen specifically to provide you with optimal function while maximizing your potential for varying travel outfits. Ten pieces can create the ideal capsule wardrobe for travel and can also act as the essence to a larger packing list. Make sure you can mix and match each item.

For long trips in particular you’ll need to choose fabrics that can wash and dry quickly and easily. For trips less than two weeks you may need to rewear clothing (a common pro traveler technique).

THE PERFECT CAPSULE WARDROBE

WHERE AND WHEN ARE YOU TRAVELING?

This Travel Essentials packing list is the ideal capsule wardrobe for travel. You can easily travel with only ten pieces for Round the World trips , two week vacations , or even weekend travel . For cold weather, please read these tips .

Depending on the length of your trip there’s a good chance you’ll need to do laundry. For two week trips you can use the Maximista Packing List to make complete outfits for two weeks but this is the exception.

The key to traveling for more than three weeks is to do laundry once a week and just pack one week’s worth of clothing!

If you’re using the Travel Essentials Packing List for longer trips, hand washing is necessary. Make sure to choose the right fabrics for your basics is necessary to ensure maximum use and swift washing times. Suggested items to pack include a universal rubber sink plug and packable clothesline to make this process a breeze!

GUIDELINES TO CHOOSE APPROPRIATE ITEMS

As with all the lists, it is important to select clothing items that work well together and can be used interchangeably.

COLOR: One Color Story – solids, neutrals, limited patterns in same color story preferable

FABRIC: Flexible for short trips; Strict for long trips: durable quick dry synthetics and fast drying light fabrics

CUT: Good fit; every item must  mix and match

STYLE: Appropriate in various settings: Beach, Temples, Villages, Cities, Treks, etc

TRAVEL BAG: Depends on trip length  30-40 Liter Backpack or carry-on size suitcase . Check out other luggage options.

Travel organizers are the key to organization and the ability to maximize space especially for carry-on luggage. Watch this packing video to learn more!

Sample Travel Essentials Packing List

10 Pieces of Clothing

Linen Scoop Tee

Washed-satin Cami Top

Sleeveless Drape Blouse

Silk Long Sleeve Blouse

Calf-Length Oval Skirt

Floral Print Harem Pants

Boyfriend Jeans

Pleated Maxi Dress

Draped Dress

Four Tank Tops/Short Sleeve Tops in the heat or Four Long Sleeves for Cooler Climates  Synthetic fabric, quick dry, solid colors or prints in same color story to layer as needed for varying temperatures and travel outfit variety. Tunics  can be versatile and can be worn in more than ways than regular length tops and the longer length is most flattering to leggings .

Ideally, all tops should mix and match with each other for the cold. Must match all bottoms to make the most of your travel wardrobe.

One Long Sleeve Shirt Light quick drying fabrics in the heat. Able to layer over other tops and dresses as a light jacket or cover up. Button up tops are versatile. Merino wool or cashmere to act as a top layer over other tops as needed.

Remember to choose sleeve lengths that you like. Some women like sleeveless and others like long sleeves. Choose what works for you.

Three sets of Bottoms  Highly dependent on your destination and the weather, choose items that can be used for every activity. Should mix and match with all tops.

Whether you choose long pants, capris, shorts, or skirts is up to you.  Jeans work well  on vacations, trips to metropolitan cities, or cool climates. Very destination dependent. They may be thick but hardly have to be washed.

If you pack colorful or printed tops choose solid or neutral bottoms and vice versa.

Two Dresses or if you prefer separates choose skirts instead. You can go one of two ways with this: bold colors or prints or classic style with neutral color. It depends on your style.

Versatility is key. For dresses choose one that can take you from day to night with some added accessories or an extra hint of makeup. Minimum should be one day/night and one day. A classic wrap dress is always a great choice, maxi (long length) dresses are great for conservative environments, and an LBD (or your favorite color) work well.

Two Outerwear One coat/jacket plus one layer for underneath.

One-Two Bathing Suits Reversible bathing suits allow you to mix and match. Choose one that has a neutral shade on one side so it can easily double up as a bra under your tops.

Two-Three Bras Neutral colors that matches with all your tops. Nude tones recommended. Read about choosing the best bras for travel .

One Sports Bra For long trips if you plan on doing activities or have long bumpy transportation journeys.

Two Sleepwear Pajamas depends on your personal preference but try to choose versatile items that can be worn outside the bedroom if needed such as running shorts and a fitness top. Silk or satin chemises and sets can be used as a light option as well.

Ten Pairs of Travel Underwear Quick dry, avoid 100% cotton or mesh. Quantity depends on length of trip. Read these tips for extended travel .

Three Pairs of Shoes Choose versatile footwear . Style depends greatly on your activities and the weather but one thing’s for sure: choose comfort over fashion. A balance between functionality and fashion is ideal! Should mix and match all clothing and work for all  activities. Read our ten step guide to choosing the best travel shoes for any trip.

Accessories One belt that can be worn with pants and dress for practical style. Jewelry can be used to add color, change style, or add glam. Don’t forget them. Read the lazy girl’s guide to stylish travel accessories for more ideas.

Makeup Take the essentials but leave the drawer filled with makeup at home. Decanter full sizes into smaller reusable containers with only the quantity you need. Read these posts for more travel makeup tips .

Alternate Travel Essentials Packing List Combinations

  Longsleeve  |  Tank  |  V-neck |  Top  |  Blouse  |  Dress   |  Swing Dress  |  Skinny Jeans  |  Jeans |  Skirt

4 Tops + 4 Bottoms + 2 Dresses  (versatile, shown above)

5 Tops + 3 Bottoms + 2 Dresses  (good multi-climate trips or hot weather)

6 Tops + 3 Bottoms + 1 Dress  (good for varying climates)

7 Tops + 3 Bottoms  (good for cold climates)

10 Dresses  (perfect for resort and tropical vacations)

LIKE THIS POST? PIN THE PIC BELOW TO SAVE IT!

READ THE REST OF OUR SIGNATURE PACKING LISTS:

• Minimalista Packing List for Summer
• Minimalista Packing List for Winter
• Essentials Packing List for Summer
• Essentials Packing List for Winter
• Classic Packing List for Summer
• Classic Packing List for Winter
• Maximista Packing List for Summer
• Maximista Packing List for Winter

Find out what to wear in every destination  and visit our country specific packing lists  for even more helpful tips.

READY TO TRAVEL CARRY-ON ONLY?

If it’s your first time traveling, you have a complicated itinerary, or you’re a chronic overpacker take our  packing course which shows you exactly how to travel carry-on only for each and every single trip!

Click here to stop overpacking for good!

PRINTABLE TRAVEL CHECKLIST

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

I Haven’t Checked a Bag in 10 Years — Here, My 14 Sure-fire Travel Essentials to Get Everything in a Carry-on

These frequent flier-approved picks cover all of your travel bases, and they start at $10.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

I travel twice a month covering destinations that inspire readers and those planning vacations. In order to efficiently move through airports, take Ubers, and lug everything on my own, I’ve had to master the art of packing light . But as a chronic overpacker in my former days, this didn’t come easy. However, once I started embracing the carry-on-only lifestyle, I would never go back. It’s been over 10 years since I’ve checked a bag — regardless of where I’m going or how long the trip is. 

In addition to quality luggage pieces (I swear by my Gregory Quadro 22-Inch Hardcase Carry-On and always bring Calpak’s Luka Duffel as my personal carry-on tote to fit extra clothes and accessories), successful carry-on-only traveling involves strategic packing. When planning which clothes to bring, I think in terms of outfits and try to incorporate versatile capsule wardrobe items that match with several things (layers are also key). Lastly, compression packing cubes work wonders — as do my 14 travel essentials that always make my packing list so I never have to check a bag.

These go-to items include packing aids, versatile clothing and accessories, and more to help me maximize every inch of suitcase space without going over the limit. Even better, they start at $10 at Amazon. 

Cambond Compression Packing Cubes

Compression organizers are game-changers. Not only do they flatten your items so you can pack more in your suitcase, but they also aid in organizing your outfits; you can pack your clothes according to style, color, or category. Cambond’s sturdy nylon packing cubes have a double zipper for easy access and hassle-free compressing. They’re also water-resistant, which means that they'll protect your items from any potential leaks or spills. I also like that they’re lightweight; the last thing you want to do is add weight to your carry-on. 

They’re sold in sets with various sizing options, and are available in 45 colors. This item is a favorite among shoppers because of how effective the compression is for packing. And, according to one Amazon reviewer , they helped them travel to Europe for "a week with only a backpack and a carry-on." 

Anrabess Romper With Pockets

I always pack a romper because it saves space and maximizes your outfit potential. This super cute one from Amazon-loved brand Anrabess is made with a comfy polyester-rayon-spandex blend to ensure comfort and stretch. You can play with the neckline and wear it several ways — crewneck style, off-the-shoulder, or Bardot-style. The tie-front drawstring at the waist accentuates your silhouette, offering a flattering fit. 

The fabric is thick so it’s not see-through. It makes the perfect loungewear item and is versatile enough to wear to the beach, picnics, by the pool, and even out running errands. Pair it with a nice pair of sandals or heels and it’s the perfect outfit for dinner. I’m a huge fan of pockets, and the romper has two side pockets for holding lightweight (but essential) items such as lipstick or cash.

M.M. LaFleur Moreland Jacket

M.M.Lafleur 

A seasonless suit is a no-brainer when I head out for work trips. Even if you’re traveling for pleasure, sporting a blazer and a pair of trousers creates an instantly sophisticated look. M.M. LaFleur’s Origami Tech collection is specifically designed to be your ultimate travel companion; the Moreland Jacket and matching Colby pants are wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable. 

The set can be worn together or separately; the jacket matches well with a good, old pair of jeans on sightseeing days or leggings when you’re catching a flight. You can also wear it over a dress or blouse-skirt combo for polished lunch or dinner looks. To get the same workwear-inspired travel outfit for less, you can grab Amazon’s best-selling blazer for $58. 

Amazhiyu Button-Down Midi Dress With Pockets and Belt 

Pack a dress that does everything, one that you can wear during the day and do double duty at night. While I’m obsessed with the celeb-favorite Jenni Kayne Day Dress , at a whopping $395, a girl’s got to budget. That’s why, when I found this linen button down dress at Amazon, I couldn’t wait to try it on. It features a sleeveless, collar design with side slits and a removable self-tie belt to give it shape; it’s very flattering and accommodates all shapes and sizes. Sometimes, I use my favorite woven belt (I'll go into more detail about it later) instead, which instantly creates a different vacation look without requiring additional clothing items. 

It’s a great travel piece for spring because it’s made of 100 percent linen, which is known for being a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric. There are two side pockets for stashing essentials, a feature that reviewers praised. One shopper wrote , "I absolutely love this dress. The pockets are really big, which is great. Everything about this dress is quality, and I stayed cool in the summer heat." Another noted that the pockets "are flat and don't stick out" when they have stuff in them. 

Lightbird Foldable Summer Straw Bucket Beach Hat

This packable straw hat is the best travel hack. There have been many times where I’ve wanted to bring a stylish hat, but ended up not doing so because it takes up too much real estate in my luggage. That's no longer a worry with this stylish bucket hat that folds down for easy packing. It also easily adjusts to fit almost everyone with a cinch drawstring lining on the inside. 

It’s a hot travel accessory because not only does it keep you safe from the sun’s rays, it also keeps you cool and looking stylish. Plus, you can use it to spice up your vacation outfits, giving the already-worn looks a fresh feel. 

Vermouth Beauty In The Nude Flight of Five Crayons

When traveling, I always bring these cleverly packaged Vermouth lip crayons, which are sustainably sourced and free of plastics and chemicals. Each "flight" features a color palette of five crayons in various hues, giving you multiple lipstick options without taking up precious toiletry bag space. 

What's more, these long-lasting and hydrating crayons can be worn dabbed on your cheeks like blush or swiped across your eyelids in place of eyeshadow, further helping you cut down on beauty products and freeing up room for other trip essentials in your toiletry bag and carry-on. 

Fjallraven Women's Kanken Hip Pack

I’m a huge fan of Fjallraven travel bags because of their timeless designs and practicality. Made with 100 percent vinylon fabric, this hip pack is durable and water-resistant, and is the only bag that you need to pack. It works whether you’re hitting the streets for a day of window shopping, the trails for hiking, or the strip for dinner. It’s just small enough that it also works as a wallet within a bigger bag or purse, if that's more your vibe (and you need the extra carry-on space). I like wearing it as a crossbody, though some fans wear it as a fanny pack. 

Versatility aside, this bag really shines because of its roominess. One shopper wrote , "I was worried at first because it looks very small, but it has three compartments [and a] lot of room." 

Everlane Day Ballet Flats

Everlane's Day Ballet Flats are easy to pack and don’t take up a lot of space. They can be worn with a casual outfit or dressed up for a nice dinner. Because of their adaptability, you’ll always find them on my packing list. While I own several pairs of the brand’s flats, these are my favorite because they’re chic and comfortable. I especially like the sweet little bow on top. 

The soft, buttery leather molds to your feet, so they get more comfortable with wear. They’re great travel shoes because they’re stylish when paired with denim, leggings, dresses, pants, and even shorts. What's more, the outsoles are made of rubber, which keeps you from slipping on smooth or wet surfaces.

SeptCity Woven Rattan Wide-Stretch Straw Belt

It's time to give my favorite belt its flowers. A belt changes everything, and I love getting creative and refreshing an outfit with this trendy belt. It converts one outfit into another one, requiring you to pack less — a.k.a. why it's a must on my packing list. Its rattan fabric adds an elegant touch to my favorite outfits, and I love to wear it with skirts, dresses, over cardigans, and even tunics (one of my favorite looks is pairing it with this Trovata shift or PrettyGarden’s floral frock ).

It has a sturdy wooden buckle and measures 41.3 inches in length and 1.8 inches wide, but still offers you a little wiggle room with its stretchy design. The belt is also available in beige and cream, which are both neutral colors that work with most outfit palettes.  

Acelitt Short-Sleeve V-Neck Button-Front Belted Jumpsuit

Similar to rompers, jumpsuits streamline the amount of clothes that you need to pack, offering you extra room so you don’t have to overpack and check your bags. This elegant version from Amazon-favorite brand Acelitt is ready for any situation; just add a sweater, blazer, or jacket on top to change it up. It’s comfortable, trendy, and super flattering, and the fabric is soft and stretchy so you can sport it on the plane, around town, and out to dinner without needing an outfit change. 

One traveler wrote , "I love this jumpsuit so much that I have it in blue and black, [and I'm] ordering the olive green next. It's super easy to dress up or down [and] fits true to size. I always get compliments on it. It's great to travel with as well." 

Mammut Runbold Light Pants

Mammut’s Runbold Light Pants are multi-functional for me. I wear them while running, hiking, and lounging, and they're lightweight and breathable material makes them perfect for spring’s transitional temperatures (you can even wear them well into the summer). The elastic waistband offers comfort for all activities, and you can convert to three-quarter-length pants to change up their look when your itinerary calls for it.  

The two slit side pockets have zippers, which are ideal for hiking and traveling. They’re super easy to pack and water-repellent, so if the forecast warns of a slight drizzle, you’ll be okay. 

Everlane’s Cotton Modern Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple, and I especially like to pack one for spring travel because it is well-suited for the variable weather. If you’re like me and have been fan-crushing on Jennifer Aniston’s wardrobe on "The Morning Show," then you’re going to fall for Everlane’s Cotton Trench Coat, which is half the price of other brand names and has a classic silhouette, with a belt to cinch at the waistline — and is fully-lined and water-resistant. 

But, if $268 is too much for your travel wardrobe budget, I also spotted various, under-$100 versions at Amazon. Give the Farktop Double-Breasted Oversized Long Trench Coat (on sale for $80) or the Tanming Notch Lapel Double- Breasted Pea Coat-style Trench (which is on sale for $60) a look.

M.M. LaFleur Merritt Jardigan

M.M. LaFleur

The Merritt Jardigan is an investment that I’m glad I made. A cross between a tailored jacket and a cardigan, with a tie-front belt that accentuates your figure, it works wonders for elevating your ensemble, and can be worn from your desk to the airport to dinner. Wrinkle-resistant, stretchy, and long enough to cover your assets, I’ve worn it on the way to Pilates class, at the airport, and for numerous dinners. Plus, the fabric is season-less, which makes it great for any time of the year. 

You can achieve the same elegant, quiet luxury wardrobe vibes with the Anrabess Open Front Cardigan Jacket , which is an Amazon-favorite outerwear piece that's just $50. 

Feisedy Polarized Vintage Sunglasses Jackie O Cat-Eye Sunglasses

I stopped shelling out hundreds of dollars for brand-name glasses because they can easily get damaged or lost, especially when traveling. These elegant sunglasses give off a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” look at a compelling price, and they're incredibly versatile with their classic black, cat-eye silhouette that can be worn with any outfit for any occasion. 

Not only are they light and comfortable, they’re polarized and offer 100 percent UV protection from the sun. The lenses are scratch-resistant, which enhance their durability. Singing the sunnies' praises, one shopper said , "They're better than my expensive, name-brand sunglasses. I can see better while traveling. I will take them with me on any of my trips without being afraid to lose them… not [a] scratch yet." 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

14 Travel Packing Secrets Every Frequent Flyer Knows

G oing on vacation is the best . Not so fun? Trying to cram your cutest outfits into your suitcase . Indeed, the anxiety of figuring out what to pack (and how to make it all a fit) can put bit of a damper on your pre-getaway excitement.

To the rescue: These savvy packing tips from the Good Housekeeping Institute 's travel experts. Whether you're someone who starts packing a week ahead of time or waits until the last minute, these hacks will ensure that your favorite travel dress doesn't get wrinkled and you have plenty of room for souvenirs.

Keep reading to learn how to pack faster and smarter — without the stress.

1. Roll clothes and pack them first.

The best way to prevent creases and make the most of your space is to use the roll method. Lay tops facedown, fold in the sleeves and roll from the bottom up. For pants, put the legs together and roll from the waist down. Once you’ve rolled everything, place pants and tops in your suitcase before walking shoes and accessories; then, fit in other oddly shaped items, like hair tools .

2. Choose travel-friendly fabrics.

We always recommend opting for knits and stretchy fabrics while traveling. Even when these fabrics wrinkle, the creases will fall out when you hang them up. Woven fabrics (like linen or cotton twill) are more prone to wrinkling.

3. Pack the first outfit you'll want to wear on top.

If you know you’re getting off the plane and going straight to dinner or a meeting, plan your outfit and put it into your suitcase last. That way, when you arrive, you won’t have to dig through everything else to find it (plus, it will be less likely to wrinkle). This strategy is a great excuse to think about what you’ll wear in advance so you don’t make one of the biggest packing mistakes: waiting until the last minute to pack.

Expert Tip: Have trouble making a packing list and sticking to it? Check out this useful planner from Erin Condren .

4. Place heavy items at the base.

Keep weightier things like shoes and books by the wheeled end of your suitcase. This placement helps your bag stay stable when upright, and stops other items from getting smushed. (We like Away’s The Carry-On — it topped our carry-on luggage test and has a 100-day trial period.)

5. Layer plastic dry cleaning bags between clothes.

The next time you pick up your dry cleaning, save the plastic bags. You can use them to protect delicate items from accidental pulls by layering them between your clothes. They help your clothing slide (not snag) when your bag gets jostled (and they help reduce wrinkling!).

6. Use packing cubes.

Our pros like Eagle Creek’s set . These blocks keep your suitcase organized and stack together easily — no more trying to fit in oddly shaped items like a puzzle. Plus, the best packing cubes are lightweight and thin so you won’t lose any precious suitcase space.

7. Avoid over- or under-packing.

While you might be tempted to leave space for souvenirs, extra room means items can shift and crumple or break. Fill empty spaces with dry cleaner bags (and fill them later with mementos from your trip). It’s important not to over-pack either (especially if you’re only bringing a carry-on), since that’s a surefire way to create crease marks and can make it extra tricky to repack when you're going home — or heading off to another spot.

8. Get an extra tote for souvenirs.

You're going to want to shop so bring a foldable tote bag or travel backpack . It won’t take up much space on the way to your destination (many fold into a small pouch!) and you can fill it with (almost) anything you buy on your travels.

9. Take a mini iron.

Despite your best packing efforts, some wrinkles and creases are inevitable. That's where a pint-size steam iron or garment steamer comes in. Most are under two pounds, meaning they take up very little space and are perfect for quick touch-ups anywhere — just don’t expect it to de-wrinkle a full garment in record time.

10. Bring two small laundry bags.

Use one for lights and one for darks. If you forget, grab plastic bags from your hotel room’s closet. When you get home, throw the presorted loads in the wash. Other must-haves: two-gallon resealable bags for wet bathing suits and an instant stain remover like Shout Wipe & Go .

11. Organize your liquids bags.

You know the drill: Stash any liquids you want to keep in your carry-on bag in a separate, clear bag so you can easily pass through security. Our must-haves: a do-it-all hydrating balm , cleansing wipes for your face or hands (or the seat) and a lightly scented hand sanitizer . Not sure which liquids you can bring on the plane? Remember TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule : Products must be 3.4 ounces or less and they all must fit in a one quart-size bag.

12. Keep important medications in your purse.

Even if you plan to carry on your bag, there's still a risk you could have to check it at the gate. If your meds are in your purse, you’ll have what you need even if the overhead bin space fills up and you end up having to check your bag.

13. Bring a scarf for the plane in your carry-on.

No matter what season it is, planes are often on the chilly side. Bring a pretty, warm wrap that you can bundle up in if the temp doesn’t feel comfortable. Bonus: You can also fold it and use it as a pillow.

14. Carry a reusable water bottle.

As long as it’s empty, it’s okay to bring a water bottle through airport security. Once you’re inside the terminal, fill it up at an airport cafe or water station. You'll stay hydrated, and it’s greener than having to buy plastic water bottles while site-seeing.

• Entertainment
• Rex Reed Reviews
• Awards Shows
• Climate Change
• Restaurants
• Gift Guides
• Business of Art
• Nightlife & Dining
• About Observer
• Advertise With Us

From Show-Stopping Luggage to Nifty Gadgets: The Best Spring Travel Accessories for Men

Cue the ultimate packing list of the essential gear for the modern voyager, to upgrade the travel experience.

Spring has sprung, and it's not just the flowers that are in full bloom. It's time to swap the bulky coats for something a tad more debonair and hit the road (or sky) in style. Whether you're jetting off for matrimonial merriment, globe-trotting for deals, raising a glass to another year well-lived or just heeding the call of the wild blue yonder, the right travel accessory kit is non-negotiable. 

Spring travel is its own unique genre. It's not about fleeing the frost, but embracing the gentle warmth, the kaleidoscope of blooming landscapes and the myriad outdoor activities that the season welcomes (at last!). Cue the ultimate packing list of the essential gear for the modern voyager, to upgrade the travel experience. Picture a sleek, sturdy suitcase that laughs in the face of cobblestones and conveyor belts alike. A messenger bag that's as at home in a high-stakes huddle as it is on a leisurely city jaunt. A nifty steamer to keep your threads looking sharp for those open-air feasts. And, of course, a trendy hat to fend off those pesky spring rays.

Our curated collection of spring travel must-haves is where style meets substance. From show-stopping luggage that turns heads in the VIP lounge to nifty gizmos that keep you plugged in and polished, these essentials are crafted to elevate your journey. So, as you plot your spring adventures—whether driven by romance, ambition or a dash of whimsy—arm yourself with these trusty travel allies that guarantee every expedition is one for the books.

The Best Travel Accessories For Men

Brunello cucinelli grained calfskin and nylon tennis backpack, away the large toiletry bag, bottega veneta maxi cabat leather tote bag, july packing cells, steamery cirrus no. 3 portable steamer, loewe large pebble suede bucket bag, bang and olufsen beoplay ex, ferragamo logo-print full-grain leather messenger bag, loro piana baseball cap, mismo medium/small suit carrier, fpm milano bank s check-in spinner 68 suitcase, tom ford black soft grain leather passport holder, tumi welded laptop sleeve, royce new york travel adapter and leather case, jo malone blossoms travel trio cologne, burberry reversible cotton bucket hat, charles simon eaton 3 watch case.

Serve up panache with Brunello Cucinelli's tennis-inspired travel backpack. It's a grand slam of luxury and functionality, crafted in Italy from grained calfskin and nylon. This ace accessory features a reimagined emblem and multiple compartments to keep your game and everyday essentials in check. Whether you're hitting the court or the streets, it's a versatile winner.

$4,995, BUY NOW

Available in both large and small sizes, Away's Dopp kits are designed for effortless packing with their wide openings. Crafted from water-resistant nylon, these travel toiletry bags safeguard your grooming must-haves, from razors to aftershave. Spills? No sweat. The coated interior makes clean-up a breeze, while the central zip compartment of this travel pouch provides ample space for larger items. With distinct transparent and mesh pockets, organizing your gear is a hassle-free experience, ensuring you're always primed and ready for whatever comes your way.

$75, BUY NOW

Behold, the titan of totes: Bottega Veneta's high-quality Maxi Cabat. Its iconic weave and generous size make it the ultimate carryall, blending laid-back luxe with a hint of audacity. Perfect for toting everything from a full weekend’s worth of clothing to your many gadgets.

$14,500, BUY NOW

Sick of rummaging through your suitcase? Get organized with July's game-changing packing cubes . Designed to maximize space in your luggage, these cells allow you to pack more for every adventure. This premium nylon set comes in multiple sizes with mesh tops that let you easily see what's inside, while the soft fabric coddles your gear. Built tough with reinforced zippers and washable, stain-resistant materials, they'll maintain their shape for years of flawless organization.

$85, BUY NOW

Say adios to crinkles with the Steamery Cirrus No. 3, your trusty sidekick for looking dapper on the move. This nifty gadget is a steamer and iron rolled into one, heating up quicker than you can say "wrinkle-free." Its pint-sized form is a godsend for globetrotters, guaranteeing you turn heads with your impeccable style, wherever your travels take you.

$180, BUY NOW

Roomy enough to carry all your must-haves, from gadgets to grooming essentials, this suede sensation from Loewe is a jet-setter's best friend. With its adjustable shoulder strap, you can tote it around hands-free with ease, making it a perfect blend of sophistication and practicality. Whether you're hopping on a plane or strutting down city streets, this bag is your ticket to sleek.

$2,990, BUY NOW

With up to 20 hours of playtime and wireless charging, these insanely comfortable, Bluetooth-equipped waterproof earbuds keep the music flowing wherever your travels take you. Adaptive active noise cancellation intelligently blocks out unwanted noise in-flight just as well as a bulky pair of noise-canceling headphones, and when you want to let the world in, quickly flip to Transparency Mode at the tap of a button. Powerful 9.2mm drivers deliver exceptional audio fidelity and four sizes of silicone tips allow the ultimate comfort, while six microphones provide crystal-clear call quality.

$399, BUY NOW

Swathed in sumptuous full-grain leather and flaunting Ferragamo's famed Gancini buckles, this messenger bag is a must-have for the man about town. It's just the right size for your daily kit, with nifty compartments to keep your travel essentials organized. On the run to a business trip boardroom meeting or dashing off for a weekend escapade, this bag adds a splash of finesse to your look.

$1,590, BUY NOW

Top off your look with Loro Piana's baseball cap. It’s not just any cap, but a marvel of weatherproof engineering. Armed with the brand's Storm System treatment, this hat laughs in the face of both water and wind, ensuring you stay suave and snug in spring’s fickle climate, come rain or shine.

$450, BUY NOW

Trade in your duffle and travel with your finery in tow, courtesy of Mismo's suit carrier. Crafted from robust Italian canvas and accented with leather trims, this is the minimalist's answer to the jet-set rules that be. Spacious enough to house a wardrobe's worth of suits and with pockets for your accouterments, this carrier ensures you arrive wrinkle-free and ready for action even after a long flight, be it in the boardroom or at the altar.

$850, BUY NOW

Jet off in style with FPM Milano's Bank S suitcase, a fusion of form and function conceived in collaboration with industrial designer Marc Sadler. For those that aren’t dedicated to a carry-on, this aluminum marvel reimagines the classic trunk with a contemporary twist, boasting hand-inserted rivets and Italian leather handles. With a featherlight shell and whisper-quiet wheels, it's a traveler's dream, ensuring a seamless journey from takeoff to touchdown.

$1,750, BUY NOW

Tom Ford's passport holder is a luxurious accessory for the frequent traveler. Crafted in Italy, this passport holder doesn't shout that it's one of Tom Ford's, but its quality certainly speaks to it. Tipped with a designer emblem, it's made from full-grain leather that'll take to scuffs and scratches well on your international travels. It offers an elevated way to keep travel documents, credit cards and receipts organized.

$690, BUY NOW

Tumi transforms tech protection into a fashion statement with this sleek laptop sleeve, perfect for stowing in your carry-on personal item travel bag. Its high-performance design is not just abrasion-resistant; it's a fortress for your laptop, thanks to the seam-sealed welding. The option to personalize it with a monogram patch adds that special touch, making it more than just a case—it's your tech's tailored suit.

$295, BUY NOW

For the tech-savvy traveler, Royce's travel adapter is a must-have. Wrapped in exquisite handcrafted leather, this sleek powerhouse can be a charger for three devices at once with its dual USB ports and 2.1 AMPs. It's the ultimate travel companion for maintaining powered up battery life on the go.

$135, BUY NOW

Each scent in this limited edition TSA-approved travel-size set is a mini escape. Crafted in the U.K. for those moments when you need a spritz of spring on your travels, follow your mood du jour and alternate between the zesty Yuzu Zest, the bright Yellow Hibiscus and the lush Sunlit Cherimoya. Don't let the florals fool you—these are masculine scents you’ll love.

$80, BUY NOW

Burberry's reversible bucket hat is a sartorial chameleon, effortlessly transitioning from the muted elegance of solid beige to the iconic Burberry check. Fashioned from the same premium cotton twill as their legendary, best-selling trench coats , this Italian-crafted hat offers dual options, for the ultimate in travel gear. Embellished with the embroidered Equestrian Knight, it's a nod to timeless fashion with a modern twist, perfect for the style-savvy traveler.

$480, BUY NOW

The Charles Simon watch case is the nest that your horological treasures deserve, whether you're a collector on the move or displaying your timepieces at home. This one combines minimalist aesthetics with robust functionality, safeguarding your watches with soft young bull leather, Alcantara cushions and a sleek aluminum frame clasp.

$1,290, BUY NOW

We noticed you're using an ad blocker.

We get it: you like to have control of your own internet experience. But advertising revenue helps support our journalism. To read our full stories, please turn off your ad blocker. We'd really appreciate it.

How Do I Whitelist Observer?

Below are steps you can take in order to whitelist Observer.com on your browser:

For Adblock:

Click the AdBlock button on your browser and select Don't run on pages on this domain .

For Adblock Plus on Google Chrome:

Click the AdBlock Plus button on your browser and select Enabled on this site.

For Adblock Plus on Firefox:

Click the AdBlock Plus button on your browser and select Disable on Observer.com.