travel list what to pack

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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

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

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

We’ve divided this packing list into multiple sections:

Summer Clothing

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

• Luggage & Packing Aids

Pre-Travel Checklist

More packing resources.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Toiletries

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

Luggage And Packing Aids

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

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

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

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

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

• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024
• Best Prepaid eSIM For Italy | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 18, 2024

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

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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.

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The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

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

Table of Contents

The Perfect Packing Checklist

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

Travel Packing List for Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Organizing Your Luggage

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

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

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

Travel Packing Lists for Clothes

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

Capsule Wardrobe for Women

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

Travel Accessories for Her

• Buffs or headbands
• Rain Jacket or Outer Shell

Capsule Wardrobe for Men

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

Travel Accessories for Him

• Rain Jacket/Outer Shell

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

Checklist for Packing Toiletries

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

What to pack in your Toiletry Kit – Toiletry Essential Checklist

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

Toiletry Extras Checklist

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

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

Packing Checklist for Electronics

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

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

Optional Electronics

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

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

Packing List for Comfort

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

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

Packing List for First Aid Kit

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

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

Travel Documents

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

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

Travel Security

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

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

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

Pre-Trip Checklist

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

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

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

If you enjoyed this post why not Pin It?

Looking for more packing tips?

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

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

You May Also Like These Helpful Travel Planners

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About The Planet D

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Great to hear Frank! Thanks for sharing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist: What to Pack and Why

Table of contents, introducing your comprehensive travel packing checklist.

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

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

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

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

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

Simplifying the Packing Process with Essential Items

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Essentials: Your Must-Have Packing List

Clothing staples: what to wear for comfort and style.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Footwear: Shoes for Every Occasion

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

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

Necessary Accessories: Enhancing Your Outfits

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

Documents and IDs: Travel Must-Haves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toiletries and Medications: Staying Fresh and Healthy

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

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

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

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

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

Gadgets and Tech: Enhancing Connectivity and Exploration

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

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

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

Enhance Your Journey: Less Common, Yet Essential Items

Packing aids: organizers, compression bags, and more.

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

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

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

Tech and Gadgets: Innovative Tools for Smooth Travels

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

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

Comfort Boosters: Neck Pillows, Eye Masks, and beyond

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

Here is the travel packing checklist for comfort boosters:

• Neck pillow 

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

• Bag for dirty clothes

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

• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

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

• Kindle or a physical book

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

• Portable luggage scale

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

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

• Portable wifi Hotspot Device

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

• Recycled water bottle

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

• Travel planner

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

Plan and Pack: Your Stress-Free Travel Prep

The convenience of a checklist: simplifying packing.

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

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

Tailoring Your Packing to the Destination and Duration

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

Your travel packing checklist

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

Must-haves:

Clothing items:

• Basic T-shirts 
• Basic pants 

Documents and IDs:

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

Toiletries and Medications: 

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

Gadgets and Tech: 

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

Less common, but important:

Tech and Gadgets: 

Comfort Boosters:

• Portable Wifi Hotspot Device

Conclusion: Ready to Pack for Your Next Adventure?

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

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

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

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

Packing like a pro: The ultimate guide to what to bring

Apr 16, 2024 • 6 min read

No matter where you go, you don't want to spend your holiday money buying something you meant to pack. © Lumina / Stocksy

So, you’ve narrowed your travel list down and finally booked your next trip. With all the arrangements made, your bags are figuratively packed. 

Now there’s only one thing standing between you and the world: actually packing. For many, it’s the most stressful part of trip preparations. But it doesn’t have to be. 

Here are our tips for packing like a pro, and check out these links for tips on packing for specific destinations:

• Pack like a pro for a backpacking trip
• Pack like a pro for any festival
• Pack like a pro for a family beach trip

Country-specific advice:

• Pack like a pro for Ireland
• Pack like a pro for Italy
• Pack like a pro for Egypt

Pre-Departure Checklist

Don’t leave home without getting the essentials in check. Here are some of the things that should be on your pre-departure checklist.

Your passport

Ok, you’ve probably thought of this one already, but check the expiration date. Some countries require at least six months’ validity. And if you have to renew, make sure you leave plenty of time, especially during peak vacation periods. Visa requirements can also change over time so don’t assume it’s the same arrangement as before if returning somewhere familiar. You can check if a visa is required at www.iatatravelcentre.com

Pre-book and save

Often booking in advance can save you money —and that includes booking things like parking before getting to the airport. Even if you do so on the morning of your trip you may save. The same is true for ordering currency in advance. If picking up pre-booked currency, take the card you booked with and take note if you have to go to a particular pickup point to get your cash.

Read up on your destination for up-to-the-minute issues that might affect your plans. The US Bureau of Consular Affairs ( travel.state.gov ); Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade ( smarttraveller.gov.au ); and the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office ( fco.gov.uk ) are the best places to start.

Get insured 

Travel insurance is an important part of your packing routine. Provisions for trip interruption, baggage delay or trip cancellation can help protect your travel investment should your trip get disrupted. 

A major part of travel insurance is health insurance. Don't assume your coverage in your home country will apply when you are traveling abroad.  As for cost, expect it to increase as you approach retirement age. For the policy to be effective, every pre-existing condition must be declared, otherwise your policy could be worthless and you could end up with a very large bill. Also check that any activity you’re planning on undertaking will be included in the price.

Medical Matters

Start with a checkup at your doctor’s and dentist – it’s far easier to deal with any potential issues before you hit the road. Try to go as far in advance as you can in case you need to take full courses of immunizations before you travel. You can usually get any necessary vaccinations at your local health clinic, though specialist travel health clinics can also be found in major cities around the world.

Discount and membership cards

If you’re eligible, obtaining an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) or International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) before you go will save you money all over the place – see www.isic.org for details of both. Travelers of any age will benefit from Hostelling International membership ( www.hihostels.com ). Senior travelers also qualify for travel discounts with some airlines and for ground transport in many countries. Sometimes flashing an ID is enough, sometimes you need to use a local scheme.

Five tips for packing light

Doug Dyment, author of OneBag.com , gives his advice for reducing baggage bulge:

• There’s only one real ‘secret’ to traveling light: a proper personal packing list. It’s a contract you make with yourself, a personal pledge that you will never pack anything that isn’t on your list. And for most people, such a list needn’t include more items than will fit in a single, carry-on bag and is able to accommodate destinations ranging from India to Inuvik.
• Learn about luggage. Most bags on the market are designed to sell easily, rather than facilitate lightweight travel. So learn about design (shapes, configurations) and construction (fabrics, zippers). You may even discover that the primary function of a wheeled bag is to support itself, not efficiently transport anyone’s belongings!
• Avoid liquids; they are the bane of the light traveler. Liquids (and gels) are heavy, bulky, prone to leakage (particularly on planes), and suspicious to security. Did I mention heavy?
• Plan to do some laundry. This needn’t be onerous: done properly, and regularly, it should be more like brushing your teeth. With the right gear (travel clothesline, powder detergent, universal sink stopper), three pairs of underwear will take you anywhere.
• Coordinate your colors. An excellent way to derive maximum use from a modest amount of clothing is to ensure that every item goes with every other one.

Backpacker’s packing list

Ensure nothing gets left behind with our handy checklist

• Boarding Passes
• Foreign cash
• Credit/ATM cards
• Maps/directions/itinerary
• Guidebook material
• First aid kit
• Travel insurance documents
• Repeat and travel medication
• Folder for all documents
• Large backpack
• Small combination lock

Electronics

• Camera and charger
• Mobile phone and charger
• Tablet and charger
• Plug adapters (see below)
• Headtorch and batteries
• Waterproof pocket camera
• Back-up hard drive
• Light jacket
• Waterproof coat
• Light jumpers
• Thin hoodie
• Casual shirts
• Loose trousers
• Trainers/comfortable shoes
• Sun hat/cap
• Sarong/shawl
• Hidden zipper belt
• Sunscreen and aftersun lotion
• Body lotion/moisturizer
• Insect repellent
• SPF lip balm
• Razor and shaving cream
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap/body wash
• Make-up and remover
• Hairbrush/comb
• Hair products
• Disposable wipes
• Sanitary products
• Nile file/clippers
• Laundry kit: travel detergent, braided clothesline, sink-stopper
• Hand sanitizer
• Dental floss
• Small tubes for liquids

Miscelleneous

• Painkillers
• Contact lenses and solution
• Travel journal and pen
• Waterproof watch
• Beach towel/quick-dry towel
• Waterproof bag
• Water purifying bottle
• Refillable bottles
• Travel neck pillow
• Playing cards
• Pocket sewing kit
• Sleeping bag
• Portable stove

International Plug Sockets

Here's a run-down of some of the world's plug sockets and fittings. Along with a converter, you can also get individual plugs. For instance, instead of using a converter to charge your iPhone, buy the country-specific plug (often available through sites like Amazon or a store in country) and just rotate it out. 

*-Except: Switzerland and Liechtenstein (type J, compatible with C); Denmark (type K, compatible with C); Italy (type L, compatible with C if socket is 10A)

This information is reprinted from Lonely Planet’s Best Ever Travel Tips

This article was first published June 2019 and updated April 2024

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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.

Connect in a new country with an eSIM. 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!

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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.

International Travel Packing Checklist: What Gear to Bring

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Packing for international travel can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the destination’s climate and culture. Even if you manage to bring everything you need, you could end up overpacking and lugging around a heavy suitcase.

To help make your packing experience easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive international travel packing checklist. Just remember to adjust the items on this list based on any specific requirements for your destination and the length of your stay.

The 9 Essentials That Should Always Be On Your International Travel Packing List

• Identification documents: passport, ID card, driver’s license, documents for your children, etc.
• Country-specific documents: visa, vaccination certificate, health forms
• Travel documents: boarding pass, booking confirmations, travel insurance
• Cash: local currency
• Medication: essential over-the-counter and prescription
• Clothing : enough to cover your whole stay
• Extreme weather gear : sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain jacket, cold-weather boots, etc.
• A bag of essential toiletries : shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant
• Electronics gear: country-specific adapters and chargers for your phone, tablet, laptop, etc.

Our Ultimate International Travel Packing Checklist for Men and Women

To download a condensed, free PDF version of our ultimate international travel packing list, click here .

• Electronics

Accessories

Miscellaneous

Some other items that you might need when traveling with toddlers and young children.

When traveling alone or as an adult couple, it’s generally possible to get by with the essentials. However, if you’re traveling with toddlers or young children, there are a few additional items that you should consider bringing.

• Baby food & formula
• Baby monitor
• Diapers and disposable diaper bags
• Toys & books
• Travel crib

Toiletries in Your Hand Luggage Must Follow the 3-1-1 Rule

If you’re bringing your own toiletries in your hand luggage, be sure to follow the 3-1-1 rule . This means your toiletry bag must contain no more than 3.4oz (100ml) containers, must be sealed in a 1-quart (1L) clear, plastic, zip-top bag, and each passenger can only bring one bag. This rule applies to liquids, gels, pastes, creams, and aerosols.

The Rules for Traveling With Electronics

The rules for traveling with electronics depend on the airline, country, and airport that you’re flying to and from.

When traveling to or from the U.S ., for example, you should be aware of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) rules for electronics. These rules require that all electronics larger than a smartphone must be taken out of your carry-on bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening . This includes laptops, tablets, and e-readers.

It’s also important to note that some countries have restrictions on the type of electronics that you can bring into the country. For example, many countries, including China and Brazil, prohibit the import of certain electronics, like iPhones and iPads, and require you to declare these upon arrival.

Certain countries have restrictions around lithium batteries as well . This means you won ‘t be able to bring batteries with more than 100 watt – hours in your carry – on or checked luggage . To check the watt – hours of your batteries , check the label on the battery or the device itself .

Finally , you should be aware that some countries, such as South Africa and India, require you to register your laptop and other electronic devices with customs when you arrive . This is due to the increasing number of laptop thefts and other electronics – related crimes in those countries .

Unfortunately , there is no one – size – fits – all answer when it comes to traveling with electronics , so make sure to do your research before you go .

Don’t Forget the Size and Weight Restrictions for Your Baggage

Underseat bags.

• Must not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 17 lbs (8kg) when combined with the weight of your carry-on

Carry-on bags

• Must not be larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 22 lbs (10kg)

Checked bags

• Must not be larger than 62 linear inches (157 cm)
• Cannot exceed 50 lbs (23kg)

No matter what size or weight restrictions you have, it’s important to make sure you pack smartly and efficiently . To do this, try to use packing cubes and consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This will help you maximize the amount of space in your luggage, so you can bring all the essentials without having to worry about the size or weight limits.

Which Items You’ll Need to Remove When Going Through Security

When you’re getting ready to go through security, there are a few items that you’ll need to remove from your carry-on bag and person. These include:

• Laptops and tablets
• All electronics larger than a smartphone
• Metal jewelry
• All liquids, gels, and aerosols
• Belts and other accessories

If you have any food items in your carry-on, you may also be asked to remove them for inspection.

It’s also important to note that some countries, such as the U.S., require you to remove your laptop, tablet, and other electronics from your bag even if you’re not checking them through security.

Which Items You Should Pack In Your Personal Item, Carry-On, and Checked Luggage

When traveling, it’s important to know which items you should pack in each type of luggage, as this will help you stay organized and minimize the amount of time you spend at the security checkpoint . Here is a quick breakdown of what should go in your personal item, carry-on, and checked luggage:

Personal Item

• Travel documents

Checked Luggage

As a general rule, it’s best to keep all valuables, medications, and important documents with you in your personal item and carry-on. This will ensure that you always have access to these items and that they remain safe.

Which Items You’re Allowed to Take for Free in Addition to Hand Luggage

When traveling, you’re usually allowed to take a few items for free in addition to your hand luggage. This typically includes a personal item, such as a laptop bag, a purse, or a briefcase, as well as a jacket or coat.

However, some airlines may limit the number of items you can bring for free, so it’s best to check your airline’s policy before you travel.

Tips on How to Save Space When Packing for an International Vacation

Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to end up overpacking or lugging around a heavy suitcase. To make your packing experience easier, here are a few tips on how to save space when packing for an international vacation:

1. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help you save a lot of space in your suitcase.

2. Pack Lightweight, Versatile Clothes

Bringing lightweight and versatile clothes will help you save space and minimize the amount of clothes you need to pack.

3. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organized and maximize the amount of space in your luggage.

4. Wear Your Bulkiest Clothes

If you’re traveling to a cold destination, wear your bulkiest clothes, such as your winter coat, on the plane. This will help you save space in your suitcase.

5. Leave Some Space for Souvenirs

Make sure to leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs, as this will help you avoid having to buy an additional bag to bring them home.

6. Pack Multi-Purpose Items

Bringing items that serve multiple purposes, such as a scarf that can also be used as a blanket, will help you save space and avoid having to bring multiple items for the same purpose.

7. Invest in a Lightweight Suitcase

Investing in a lightweight suitcase can help you save space and make it easier to carry your luggage.

Don’t Bring These Prohibited Items

When traveling internationally, you should be aware of the items that are prohibited on planes and in certain countries. These items include:

• Flammable and combustible liquids
• Sharp objects
• Electronic cigarettes
• Hoverboards

Make sure to check your destination’s customs regulations and the airline’s policy before you pack, as some countries and airlines may have additional restrictions.

Don’t Forget These Long-Haul Essentials for a Comfortable Flight

Taking a long-haul flight can be tiring and uncomfortable, so it’s important to make sure you bring the essentials to ensure a comfortable flight. Here are a few items you should bring on a long-haul flight:

• Neck pillow
• Water bottle
• Travel blanket
• Compression socks
• Entertainment (books, movies, music, etc.)
• Disinfecting wipes

Many of these will be provided by the airline, but they may not be up to your standards, so it’s always best to bring your own.

What to Look Out for When Shopping for New, Sturdy Luggage

When shopping for new luggage, you should look for a few key features to ensure you get a sturdy and reliable suitcase. Here are a few tips on what to look out for:

While hardside luggage made from ABS is likely to be the cheapest on the market, it’s also the most prone to damage. If you’re looking for a suitcase that will last, opt for a polycarbonate or aluminum piece. If you prefer softside luggage, go for a high-denier nylon or polyester piece.

Read more:  The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Materials

Most hardside luggage is fitted with spinner wheels, which are great for maneuverability. However, take a look at the wheels to make sure they’re durable and have quality bearings. For softside luggage, in-line wheels provide excellent stability and can be rolled along almost any surface.

Make sure the handle is adjustable and sturdy. Ergonomically designed handles place the least strain on your wrists as you wheel your suitcase. You should also ensure that your suitcase has carry handles so it can be lifted with ease when needed.

Zippers & Locks

Opt for a piece with good-quality zippers and an integrated TSA lock. YKK zippers are considered the best on the market.

Many manufacturers offer a limited warranty that covers any defects in the material and workmanship. Make sure you read the warranty carefully and check the length of the coverage before you make your purchase.

The weight of a suitcase is largely dependent on the materials used to make the piece, and generally speaking, hardside suitcases usually weigh more than softside suitcases. If you’re considering a hardside suitcase, opt for one made from polycarbonate or ABS, as these are the lightest materials on the market. For softside luggage, nylon and polyester are the lightest materials.

Read More:  How Much Does an Empty Suitcase Weigh on Average?

Final Words

Packing for an international trip can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that anything you forget will likely be available wherever you’re traveling.

By following this international travel packing checklist and the tips provided, you can make sure you have everything you need for your trip without having to lug around a heavy suitcase.

This post is also available in: English

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

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

Table of Contents

What to Consider Before You Pack

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

Here are some things to consider:

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

The Vacationer Tip

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

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

How to Decide Which Items to Put in Which Bags

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

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

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

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

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

Packing Liquids

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

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

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

Packing Shoes

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

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

Ideas to Maximize Space

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Vacation Packing List

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

Here are our recommended clothing and apparel items to pack.

Shoes and Accessories

Here are our recommended shoes and accessories to pack.

Here are our recommended toiletries to pack.

Miscellaneous

Here are our recommended miscellaneous items to pack.

Comforts for travel (suggested to pack in personal item)

Here are our recommended comfort items to pack.

Tips for success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

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

By Natasha Gabrielle

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

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

The Ultimate Packing List

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

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

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

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

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

• Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

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

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

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

  Packing List by Categories

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

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

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

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

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

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

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

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

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

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

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

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

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

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

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

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

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

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

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

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

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

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

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

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

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

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

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

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

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

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

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

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

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

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

Optional Toiletries:

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

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

First Aid Kit (optional)

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

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

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

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

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

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

Hair / Grooming

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

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

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

• Travel Size Hair Brush
• Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

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

Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

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

Electronics

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

International Universal Travel Adapter

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

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

Optional Electronics:

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

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

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

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

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

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

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

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

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

Pre-Trip Checklist

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

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

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

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

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

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

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

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

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

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

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

Destination Packing Lists

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

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

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

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

For destinations, please read:

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

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96 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

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

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

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

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

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

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you Theresa!

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

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

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

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

Thanks Patrizia!

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

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

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

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

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

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

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

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

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

Glad you like it Gayle!

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

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

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

AMAZING destinations!

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

That’s awesome David, thanks!

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

Thanks Valerie!

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

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

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

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

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

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

Glad you like it Kim!

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

Thank you Kim 🙂

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

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

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

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

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

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

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

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

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

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

Written by Eagle Creek on April 5, 2024

Eagle Creek was established in 1975 by Steve and Nona Barker, a couple who revered the planet and explored it accordingly. In the process, they invented an entirely new product category: adventure travel gear. Half a century later, no one offers more expertly conceived and crafted gear for experiencing the earth in every hemisphere. Thoughtful, sustainable, function-forward solutions inspired by the belief that travel can be a force for good.

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. 

Travel health

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

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Travel Checklist

Before packing.

• 3.4 ounces or less per container
• 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
• 1 bag per passenger
•   Review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage.
• If purchasing a baggage lock, be sure to look for those that are TSA recognized.
• Tape a card with your name and contact information on your electronics.

When Packing

• Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
• Firearms are only allowed in checked baggage and must be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared to your airline.
• All fireworks contain explosive materials and are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.
• Do not pack items such as box cutters, utility knives, and razors in carry-on luggage. Razor blades intended for shaving that are enclosed in a safety cartridge in which the blade cannot be removed are permitted.
• Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for screening accessibility.
• Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in the front pocket of your carry-on for accessibility.
• If traveling with a pet, be sure to bring a leash so carriers can be properly screened.

Before Leaving for the Airport

• Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport early.
• Wear easily removable shoes.
• Passengers with a disability or medical condition may call ahead to the TSA Cares toll free helpline at (855) 787-2227 .

Before Entering the Checkpoint

• Eligible passengers look for the TSA PreCheck® lane for expedited screening at participating airports.
• Have your  ID and boarding pass out for inspection.

In Standard Screening Lane

• Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
• Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
• Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.
• Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.)
• Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

Download PDF version

Holiday Packing List

The Essential Holiday Packing List 2024

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

Before You Start Packing:

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

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

Financial Items:

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

Luggage and Travel Items:

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

Health and Personal Items:

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

Electronics:

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

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

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Protect Your Trip »

Alaska cruise packing list: 36 must-have items.

Your cruise packing list for Alaska will look a little bit different than the one you'd use for the Caribbean.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

Getty Images

Stay warm and dry in Alaska by ensuring you've packed the right gear.

Alaska is one of the most stunning places to visit on Earth. The vast pristine wilderness, ever-changing landscapes and opportunity to view wildlife – including bear, moose, Dall sheep, caribou, wolves, and marine mammals such as orcas and humpback whales – are just a few of the reasons it's one of the most popular cruise destinations.

An Alaska cruise , however, can be difficult to pack for with big swings in temperatures, rainy days in the forecast and even experiencing four seasons in one day ashore. You'll need a strategic plan to pack for your trip especially if you're cruising during the colder months of April and October at the tail ends of the Alaska cruising season . U.S. News has compiled a list of essential items and ones you'll be glad you brought to round out your cruise packing list.

• For the cabin
• For the ship and onshore excursions
• For the journey

(Note: Any mentioned prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate.)

For the cabin  

Portable humidifier.

It gets cold in Alaska, especially at nighttime, so you may need to turn on the heat in your stateroom. If you've traveled in the winter on a cruise ship, you'll know that the dry warm air combined with the airtight seal in the cabin can cause several issues, including difficulty sleeping and dry skin. The MOVTIP Portable Mini Humidifier ( less than $30 on Amazon ) is compact and lightweight at 9.5 ounces, so you can easily pack it into your carry-on or checked luggage . It has two mist modes, acts as a nightlight in your cabin and has an automatic shut-off when the water level is too low.

Magnetic hooks

A fun fact: The walls of a cruise ship are made of metal, so you can use them for extra hanging space when you bring along magnetic hooks for the trip. There are plenty of plain silver magnets on Amazon to choose from, but DIYMAG heavy-duty magnetic hooks are available in bold colors like green, red and purple. That way, each person can have their own color-coded hook. The extra hanging space will come in handy with all the layers you'll need for your cruise. You'll also appreciate having the hooks for wet gear after shore excursions .

Motion sickness remedies

Courtesy of Sea-Bands

Sea-Bands, which you can find on Amazon for less than $15 , are a must-have item if you're prone to motion sickness. A drug-free alternative to medicines like Dramamine, they use an acupressure point to minimize nausea and vomiting. You never know when you'll encounter rough seas, especially if you're on a small vessel . You can even get motion sickness riding in one of the whale watching boats, so it's best to come prepared. Be sure to start wearing the bands before you get on the ship.

If you need something stronger than the Sea-Bands to quell the nausea, Dramamine has a less drowsy version that's recommended by pharmacists. Another motion sickness alternative is to wear the prescription scopolamine transdermal patch, which lasts up to three days, behind your ear. Ginger chews are an option for mild cases of upset stomach; you can purchase a pack of them on Amazon for $5 .

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

It's a good idea to keep moisturizing eye drops in your toiletry bag , backpack or handbag, especially if you're prone to dry eye. The cabins on the ship can get warm and arid, as mentioned above, particularly when you need to turn on the heat. Systane on-the-go vials are an excellent choice for hydration. Lumify is another option if your eyes have a problem with redness.

Courtesy of Rifle Paper Co.

Alaskan cruises are a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many travelers, so you'll want to record every moment of your adventure. Rifle Paper Co. sells sets of three stitched notebooks with beautiful floral and nature designs. Each book has 64 ruled pages and gold foil accents. There's even a Bon Voyage-themed set that's perfect for journaling your cruise travels.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Wrinkle release spray

Travel irons are not permitted on cruise ships, so a travel-size bottle of Downy's Wrinkle Release Plus spray comes in handy for getting rid of wrinkles. It also acts as an odor eliminator and static remover. To remove wrinkles, it works best if you spritz the garment first and then hang it in the shower so the steam can work its magic, too. For tougher wrinkles in fabrics like linen, you might need to send the garment out for pressing. If you do, be sure to give it at least a 24-hour turnaround time if you're planning to wear the item on a specific evening.

Travel-size bathroom sprays

There are several companies that make travel-size bathroom sprays, including Poo-Pourri, Fresh Wave and Flushie. They are all available on Amazon. If you prefer aromas beyond the traditional lavender vanilla and citrus scents, Poo-Pourri sells its 2-ounce packable sprays in pumpkin spice, apple, coconut and more.

Over-the-door organizer

It's best to stay organized when you're on a cruise, especially if you're not traveling solo . Storage space is limited in the closet and in the bathroom, so you'll want to keep your items separate. An over-the-door organizer, such as Bagsmart's hanging toiletry bag ( less than $30 on Amazon ), is an excellent choice for securing smaller items, such as jewelry, lip balm and travel-size sunscreen. The clear, zippered pockets are also large enough to accommodate full-size moisturizers and other makeup items.

Electronics organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

Keep your cords, battery chargers and any items for your camera – like SD cards – in one place with this electronics organizer from Bagsmart . It's easy to pack in your carry-on and even carry in your backpack or daypack if you'll need access to some of the items during the day. Everything is visible, zipped up and secure so you won't lose anything either in the room or in transit.

Flip-flops are great to have to walk around the stateroom, especially if your accommodations don't come with a plush robe and slippers. It's nice to shed heavier boots and shoes after exploring outside and have something easy to slip on your feet. Reef makes all types of flip-flops, and you can purchase the basic styles on Amazon for less than $35 a pair .

For the ship and onshore excursions  

Disinfecting wipes.

If you don't like the tacky feeling that hand sanitizers can leave on your hands, consider packing antibacterial wipes such as Wet Ones . They kill 99.99% of the germs, so they're also useful for wiping down surfaces (think tables in the buffet restaurant). These wipes are perfect to pack for an excursion or to use while enjoying the ship if you want a quick refresh.

It doesn't have to be sunny outside for you to need protection from the sun. You'll be outdoors a lot in Alaska and will want to use sunscreen with at least an SPF 15, as recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. Reef-safe sunscreen is better for you, the environment and the wildlife as it eliminates the use of certain chemicals and ingredients. Save the Reef's website has a list of reef-safe and ocean-friendly brands that include: All Good ( available in travel-size tubes on Amazon ), Mama Kuleana and Badger ( also sold on Amazon ).

Read: Sustainable Travel: Ways to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler

Insect repellent

Courtesy of Badger

The height of mosquito season runs from the second week of June to the end of July. Pesky bugs are not typically as bad in the places where most tourists visit, but that will depend on the type of cruise you take. DEET-based sprays, like Cutter Backwoods Repellent are the most effective against mosquitoes, but there are alternatives. Badger makes an organic DEET-free repellent with lemongrass and citronella, and it comes in a travel-size.

Hiking poles

Lightweight collapsible hiking poles are important to pack, especially if you're going on adventurous treks looking for wildlife in the woods. Covacure's set of two trekking poles costs about $35 on Amazon . They're made of aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, so they're strong, and they fold down to less than 14 inches each. They also have foam handles, three types of rubber tips for the poles and adjustable wrists straps. The set comes with a carry bag.

Read: The Top Alaska Tours

A dry bag is essential – particularly for water-based shore excursions – if you're carrying a camera, a cellphone or other items that can't get wet. HEETA's 5-liter waterproof dry bag ( on Amazon for about $15 ) comes in a wide selection of colors. There are also larger sizes, depending on your needs. The clear plastic allows you to see what's inside, and you can carry the bag over the shoulder or as a backpack.

Rain jacket and pants

Courtesy of Columbia

The weather can be unpredictable in Alaska, with rain occurring at any time. In the Inside Passage, August and September are typically the rainiest months. In the Southwest part of the state, which includes Katmai National Park, it rains nearly half the month from May to September. If you want to go, travelers during those months especially will want to pack some rain protection for the outdoors; to stay dry, invest in fabric that is water-repellent and not just water-resistant. Columbia has a selection of rain jackets and rain pants with everything from lightweight packable shells to pieces with fleece lining for colder weather.

Silk thermal long underwear

Silk thermals are a great base layer for the weather in Alaska when you need extra warmth. The 100% silk interlock fabric is lightweight, breathable and thin enough to fit under other layers. It also naturally wicks moisture. L.L.Bean's collection of silk thermals includes tops and bottoms for both men and women.

Mid-layers are also known as insulating layers, which include fleece and windproof or insulated jackets. These garments should be breathable, quick-drying and able to keep you warm by trapping body heat without making you feel cold or clammy. Helly Hansen makes a lightweight, zippered Polartec Daybreaker Fleece Jacket for women and men that comes in a variety of colors. If you would rather wear a jacket for a mid-layer, the Gore-Tex website has a large selection of windproof and insulated jackets in collaboration with brands like Marmot, Patagonia and Quicksilver.

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Waterproof shoes and boots

Courtesy of Merrell

Merrell's comfortable shoes and boots are ideal to pack for your Alaskan adventure. If you want a shoe for walking, the Moab Speed Gore-Tex shoe is lightweight, durable, waterproof and made with FloatPro Foam to cushion your feet. It's also available in wider sizes. The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof offers more stability as a hiking boot. It also has extra features for better traction on rugged terrain and an air cushion for maximum shock absorption. Waterproof boots from XTRATUF are another option to consider if you're going to be fishing on small boats on a pre- or post-cruisetour in Alaska.

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

You'll want several T-shirts for relaxing in your stateroom and layering under your clothes. An old favorite are the Pima cotton, short-sleeved crewnecks from L.L. Bean . They're super soft and wash well. They also make a long-sleeve version that is mostly made of Supima cotton but features modal and spandex for additional comfort.

Bathing suit

While you may not go swimming ashore in Alaska, there's a good chance that you'll want to check out the pools or spa while you're on the ship. In that case, you'll be glad you brought a swimsuit to fully experience the thermal suites available on lines like Celebrity Cruises , Princess Cruises , Viking and Holland America Line .

Warm hat and gloves

Be sure to bring a hat and gloves for the chilly mornings ashore. For a lightweight and packable option, consider Lands End microfleece gloves for men and women , as well as a beanie . Or, if you prefer a natural fiber, a wool beanie and gloves from Smartwool will keep you toasty warm.

Fleece-lined pants

Courtesy of REI

Packing a pair of warm-lined pants for cooler days is essential. The REI Co-Op Sahara Pants are U.S. News' top travel pants pick . There's also a wide selection of fleece-lined leggings and pants on Amazon, including Baleaf fleece-lined leggings . These pants essentially include a base layer, so you won't need silk thermals on days when you wear them.

Packable jacket

A packable lightweight travel jacket is another essential item when traveling to Alaska. You can layer clothes underneath in the morning as you head outdoors, then remove the jacket as it gets warmer throughout the day. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is a top pick based on thousands of reviews – and it's windproof and water-resistant. It also comes in a wide selection of colors.

Read: The Top Packable Jackets

Casual clothes

You'll want to bring lightweight layers for daytime excursions off the ship. Columbia has a great selection of nearly wrinkle-free travel pants and bottoms , along with a variety of tops and hoodies . You can mix and match these pieces throughout the week to keep packing at a minimum. In the evenings, you'll want to dress up a bit more in smart casual attire. It's best to check with your cruise line to see what's permitted in the evenings (for example, if men need a jacket to dine in a specialty restaurant), especially if you're on a luxury cruise ship .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Formal clothes and themed evening attire

Some cruise lines, such as Holland America Line, still have formal evenings. It's not required to dress up, but many women wear cocktail attire and men don their suits for the evening. You'll also want to check with your cruise line to see if there are any theme parties on your voyage. If you're on a family-friendly voyage with Disney Cruise Line , you may have a "Freezing the Night Away" theme party with Anna and Elsa and the other characters from "Frozen." Look online or check with your cruise company to see what clothes you need to bring to join in the fun on your cruise.

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

Reusable water bottle

Courtesy of Ello Products

Ditch the plastic and pack a reusable water bottle that you can fill up at onboard water stations before heading off the ship. Amazon has plenty of options to choose from, including colorful soft silicone stainless steel bottles from Ello Cooper in three sizes that come with a straw, a handle and a leakproof locking lid.

Lightweight folding daypack

The Zomake folding daypack will become a regular item in your suitcase, no matter where you go. The 30-liter size weighs about 12 ounces and folds up into a compact pouch. The nylon construction is durable and there are plenty of exterior pockets – there's even an interior pocket with deep storage for items like a wallet or phone. Two mesh side pockets accommodate reusable water bottles. The bag is available in a variety of bold colors for less than $25 on Amazon.

Read: The Top Carry-on Backpacks

Lightweight mirrorless camera and lens

Today's smartphones have impressive cameras, but most phone cameras won't have the same clarity and quality as a regular camera. If you don't want to carry a heavy DSLR camera and lens around on your Alaskan adventure, there are other options. The Canon EOS R10 is an excellent choice for a lightweight mirrorless camera along with the EF-M 18-150 mm lens. You can also purchase a mount adaptor for the camera that will allow you to use your other EF and EF-S Canon lenses.

Read: The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

While you may have some up-close encounters with wildlife – such as whales coming alongside your boat on a whale watching excursion – most of the wildlife viewing will be at a distance. A good pair of lightweight binoculars is key if you don't want to miss views like bears fishing for salmon along a river or a moose wading through a faraway lake. Bushnell's H20 8X42 binoculars are waterproof and fog-free.

For the journey  

Carry-on bag.

Courtesy of Travelpro

The type of carry-on you use will depend on how you pack. If you're a minimalist and able to stow everything you need for a week in Alaska in a carry-on, then a larger carry-on, such as the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Spinner , is a great choice. If you're checking a bag and don't need as much space in a carry-on, consider bringing a smaller option like the 21.5-inch Cargo Hauler XT from Eagle Creek . This water-repellent wheeled duffel bag comes in four colors including charcoal and red.

Read: The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Garment bag

Delsey makes a checked-size rolling garment bag that will keep your hanging clothes organized and wrinkle-free. It has seven pockets (one exterior and six interior) for storing folded clothes and other items. There are also two compartments that will fit smaller pairs of shoes. You can hang the bag in the stateroom with the door hook if you prefer to leave the items in the bag. Another trick to ensuring wrinkle-free items is to cover your clothes on the hanger with plastic bags like those you'd get at the dry cleaner.

Read: The Top Garment Bags for Travel

Packing cubes

Packing cubes keep clothes neat and organized and mostly wrinkle-free. Luggage brands like Ricardo Beverly Hills and Eagle Creek make well-rated packing cubes and organizers. You can also purchase sets of packing cubes on Amazon, such as the Veken Set 8-piece set , a U.S. News top packing cube pick .

Travel pillow and quilted wrap

Courtesy of Trtl

You'll want a travel pillow to take a nap on your flight en route to your Alaskan cruise. The unique design of the Trtl Travel Pillow supports your head so you don't wake up with neck pain, and the fabric is super soft. It comes in a travel pouch with a hook so you can attach it to your carry-on bag. If you get chilly on flights, Trtl also makes a new packable quilted mini wrap that weighs less than 13 ounces. It comes in a pouch and even has pockets to keep your hands warm or to stash your valuables (such as a passport, wallet or phone) while you nod off.

Read: The Top Neck Pillows for Travel

Medications

Keep your medications with you in a carry-on bag or personal item (such as a handbag) just in case your checked bag is lost or delayed. Request smaller bottles for prescriptions from your pharmacist, so they're easier to pack, and make sure they're clearly labeled should you be questioned by TSA. You'll also want to bring any over-the-counter items you may need, such as antacids or antibiotic ointments. It's possible to buy these items on the ship, but they are expensive.

Read: What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Collapsible duffel

If you're a shopper and plan to bring home souvenirs to friends and family, you might want an extra bag to pack up the items for the return trip home. Look for a collapsible duffel bag that will fit into your suitcase. There are many options on Amazon, including the Gonex Foldable Duffel . At the end of the cruise, you can offload your dirty clothes to the duffel bag so you'll have space in your suitcase for T-shirts, moose stuffed animals, Alaskan specialties like Captain Jim's Alaska smoked salmon and other memorabilia from your adventure.

Book an Alaska cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What not to pack for your cruise

Small appliances.

Travel irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships due to the fire hazard. As mentioned above, there are several other ways to prevent wrinkles in your clothes. You're also not allowed to bring coffee makers and other small electrical items. In addition, don't bring a hair dryer as they are usually provided in your stateroom.

Alcohol and spirits

Some cruise lines permit guests to bring one or two bottles of wine or Champagne on board the ship, but hard alcohol is almost always not allowed. If you have a beverage package or are sailing on an all-inclusive line , alcoholic beverages will be covered. Check with your cruise line before you sail to see what you can bring on board the ship.

CBD and marijuana

Cannabis is illegal in the U.S., and many cruise ships do not allow any form of CBD, including gummies, oils and lotions. It's best to play it safe and leave these items at home. You don't want to risk having the items thrown away or, in the worst case, not being allowed to board the ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has cruised to Alaska and traveled through the state in every season on several land tours. She used her personal experience and extensive research to compile this list of what to pack to cruise to The Great Land.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

• How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Tips

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How to Pack Light When You're Only Traveling With a Carry-On

By Karthika Gupta

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

Packing for a trip always feels like a dance between art and science—and attempting to pack light complicates things even further. As a travel journalist, I often find myself on the road several times a month—sometimes for weeks at a time navigating various modes of transportation. This means being self-sufficient with my luggage is key. I also don’t want to be concerned about lost luggage when I travel, so I opt to bring only a carry-on whenever I can. My mantra while packing for any trip, whether it's a domestic weekend getaway or a weeklong international adventure, is that every piece of gear has to be multi-functional to maximize space. Below, my tried-and-true tips for packing light with only a carry-on.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Our best tips for packing light:

Choose the right luggage, don't skip the packing cubes.

• Opt for multi-functional fabrics

Pick versatile pairs of shoes

• Adjust your body care routine

Travel hacks are a game-changer

A key consideration for any trip is choosing the right luggage to fit all your essentials without weighing you down. If you're traveling with just a carry-on-sized bag, you want it to be lightweight yet roomy—expandable options are always helpful. My go-to is the Monos Carry-On Plus, a 7.8-pound hard-shell suitcase sized to fit in overhead bins. The wheels have a 360-spin, making it a breeze to maneuver in tight spaces, and the side handle makes it easy to lift into the overhead bin and in a rental car. The padded front compartment fits my 15-inch laptop, a scarf, and a book in there easily. The suitcase comes with an antimicrobial laundry bag and two shoe bags that further help with packing and organization.

Another smart carry-on option is the Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag. The hybrid look of a hardcover back and adjustable softcover front brings the right amount of support and expandability of a traditional carry-on suitcase. It only has two wheels but when I saw how easily the bag moved on different surfaces, I was hooked. Cotopaxi’s fun and vibrant colors also make these suitcases easily identifiable among a sea of like-looking bags at the airport.

Next up: choosing a functional personal item . I paired my suitcase with the Chelsea Backpack from Antler. As a professional photographer, I always travel with my gear and I find the Chelsea is spacious enough to pack my camera, an extra lens, and in-flight essentials: snacks, my Otterbox 3-in-1 MagSafe charging station that helped cut down on extra cords, and my insulated Camelbak water bottle . It even has a zipped, padded laptop area with a separate slip pocket for a tablet. The backpack’s trolley sleeve is a lifesaver, slipping onto my rolling suitcase and allowing me to keep one hand free. And I always pack my Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole tote as an extra bag (for souvenirs or as a daypack for a quick hike). It folds down into a small pouch, making it both packable and functional.

Anyone who struggles with optimizing space when traveling knows that packing cubes are the ultimate solution. Not only are they perfect for organization, but compression ones like these from Monos and Béis save space in your bag. I routinely use about three to five cubes and organize my essentials by category. The bigger cube is for bulky items like jeans, pants, and sweatshirts, the medium is for shirts, and the smaller one is for undergarments and socks. The clear-view window on the Monos packing cubes allows me to see what's inside at a glance, making it easier to get ready. I also carry an extra one to separate dirty laundry on my return trip home.

Opt for lightweight, multi-functional fabrics

I will admit that choosing the right clothes for a multi-week trip is the most challenging part of packing, especially when dealing with different climates. My Duer jeans are my favorite denim. With the right amount of stretch, softness, comfort, and a water-repellent fabric, I wear them on planes, around town, and even hiking. My top picks are these fleece-lined relaxed Girlfriend fit for flights, and the mid-rise performance slim straight for backup. Another new favorite is the Freeflex Roll-Up pants from Kühl. The roll-up feature quickly converts it into a capri, increasing the usability. Plus, they are quick-drying, moisture-managing, and water-resistant.

For daily wear, I pack a few classic, mix-and-match pieces from Prana in neutral colors. Foundation rib tanks and simple short-sleeve tees are versatile, comfortable, and perfect for layering. I recently discovered hemp fabric, a natural fiber that is breathable, antibacterial, and seems to get softer with every wash. Adding Jungmaven tees to my travel wardrobe was a no-brainer because it wicks moisture away from the skin keeping clothes odor free longer so you can get more wear from your tees. A few moisture-wicking UPF 50+ bras that double as sports bras, merino wool breathable natural briefs from Ibex , and Comrad compression socks complete my essentials.

As a runner from the Midwest, I can never pass up the opportunity to tackle trails wherever I go. My Hoka short-sleeved performance tee and multi-pocket jogger tights from Oiselle are ideal because of their quick-drying fabric, which means I don’t need sweatshirts to keep me warm while running outside.

Keeping up with the theme of packing multi-purpose clothing, I chose between two outerwear pieces depending on the season—the Stretchdown light vest from Mountain Hardwear or a Silent Down Jacket from Patagonia. The vest is a lightweight layering piece that packs down to a pouch for convenience. The jacket, which I wear on the plane (another tip: don't pack your bulkiest pieces; wear them in transit), is incredibly soft, warm enough for 30 to 40-degree Fahrenheit weather, thanks to the down insulation, and not too technical—the perfect outerwear for a nice dinner.

Deciding on what shoes to bring on any trip is always a bit tricky, but generally, you want to go classic and neutral. Because of space restrictions, I opted for a white walking shoe that would go with any outfit (worn on the plane) and packed my lightweight gym shoes as a backup. Clae’s white vegan leather sneakers have traveled with me across continents and continues to hold form even after hours of walking everywhere. For my running and training routines, I lean on my Agility Peak 5 running shoe from Merrell. It performs flawlessly on gravel and concrete and after getting caught unprepared in a sudden downpour one too many times, I always choose the Gore-Tex waterproof style. A cute pair of lightweight Tevas sandals that are also waterproof and breathable round out my footwear choices.

Don’t sacrifice your body care routine—just adjust it

After a lot of trial and error over years of extensive travel, I finally curated just the right selection of products for my Dopp kit . The key is to trim down your routine (and packing list) with multi-purpose products that still get the job done and leave you feeling refreshed. Everist plant-based waterless shower travel essentials are a game changer and the travel-size tins save a lot of space. I also recently switched to waterless moisturizers and lotion bars for travel after having to ditch many creams and bottles at security because of liquid restrictions. My go-tos are Glow Face Stone solid face moisturizer and Forest Sone lotion bar from Kate McLeod. And all this packs away in my carry-on-friendly Monos Metro toiletry case.

After traveling thousands of miles with just a carry-on, there are a few hacks I always rely on that make a huge difference to my overall outlook on traveling as lightly as possible. I always clip a few carabiners to my backpack or suitcase (if possible). In a pinch, these hold nicknacks like an extra jacket, a water bottle, or my sandals if I am running out of space. A buff is a must and an easy way to protect your face, neck, and head from the elements. It also acts as a neck warmer and mask on planes. And my Sea to Summit inflatable two-ounce camping pillow has been a lifesaver during many unscheduled airport overnights thanks to cancellations and delays—I never leave home without it.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Flying With a Baby

This is how to survive hours in the air with your little one.

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

As a mom of two, I know from personal experience that the thought of flying with a small baby can be terrifying. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. Travel is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children. I first flew with my daughter from South Africa to the United Kingdom when she was just shy of four months old. With family in both countries, it’s a journey we’ve done multiple times since. I soon learned that the key to making the experience as stress-free as possible for all involved (parents, baby, fellow passengers, and airline crew!) is planning and preparation. Consider your little one’s needs carefully, and then think about how you can meet them 35,000 feet above ground. 

From getting them to sleep to keeping them entertained, here are our packing essentials for flying with a baby, defined here as a child under a year old. This list haa been carefully chosen according to my own experience as well as that of two experts: Dr. Natalie Prevatt — an NHS pediatric travel, tropical medicine consultant, and the lead clinician at the Children’s Travel Doc — and veteran flight attendant Samantha Sharpe. 

Packing Checklist for Flying With a Baby

This is by no means an exhaustive list. I haven’t included many of the most obvious, day-to-day items that you most likely already have and keep in your baby bag anyway, from diapers to wet wipes and burp cloths. There are some things, like pacifiers and bottles, that your baby will have a specific preference for and these should remain unchanged before a trip (there are enough variables up in the air without worrying about whether your baby will accept a new teat type, for example.) You also won’t need everything on this list. Tailor your choices to align with your particular routine, destination, flight length, and airline rules and regulations.

Sleep and Entertainment

• Best Infant Headphones: Alpine Muffy Noise Reduction Earmuffs
• Best Tablet: Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet
• Best Inflatable Bed: Flyaway Kids Bed
• Best Teething Toy: Lamaze Mortimer the Moose Clip & Go
• Best Book: Priddy Books First 100 Words
• Best Noise-Free Toy: The First Years Stack & Count Stacking Cups

Food and Drink

• Best Portable Bottle Warmer: Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Portable Bottle Warmer
• Best Formula Dispenser: LotCow Portable Powder Dispenser
• Best Travel Cup: Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy Cup  
• Best Snack Container: Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box

Strollers and Carriers

• Best Baby Wrap: KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier 
• Best Baby Carrier: Ergobaby 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier  
• Best Lightweight Stroller: Babyzen YoYo2 Stroller

Accessories

• Best Breastfeeding Cover: Copper Pearl Multi-use Nursing Cover
• Best Travel Blanket: Everyday Kids Car Seat Blanket
• Best Changing Pad: Kopi Baby Portable Diaper Changing Pad
• Best Packing Cubes: Remobia Hicol TSA-approved Diaper Bag Organizer Set  
• Best Sunscreen: Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen

Getting a baby to sleep can be hard enough at home, let alone on a noisy airplane. If I have just one tip, it’s to enquire well in advance about booking a baby bassinet. If they can’t be reserved, arrive early enough at the airport to give yourself a good chance of being allocated one. For long-haul flights, paying for a separate seat to use with your car seat is another option, although Dr. Prevatt advises that babies should not sleep in an upright position for more than a few hours since it can affect their oxygen levels. When it comes to entertainment, opt for noise-free, mess-free toys without too many pieces to potentially lose.

Best Infant Headphones

Alpine muffy noise reduction earmuffs.

Both my children loved the sound of the airplane engine and at night, its low vibration worked just as effectively as a sound machine for getting them to sleep. However, if your baby needs a quiet environment to drift off or if you’d like to avoid overstimulation while waiting to board in the bright and busy airport, infant headphones are a good idea. 

These ones from Alpine Muffy are designed to protect the sensitive hearing of little ones up to 36 months old. I love that the extra soft, adjustable headband is made from non-slip elastic to avoid exerting pressure on Baby’s delicate fontanelle, and that they’re proven to reduce noise to just 23 decibels. They’re super light, easy to clean, and come in a convenient travel pouch with a choice of colors ranging from Olive Green to Pink.

Best Inflatable Bed

Flyaway kids bed.

I hesitated including this category because most airlines allow children under two to fly at a significantly discounted rate if they sit on their parent’s lap. For this reason, purchasing an extra seat just so you can use an inflatable bed may seem excessive. But, for long flights when baby bassinets can’t be booked in advance, having a guaranteed place to sleep may well be worth it. 

Inflatable beds are not allowed by every airline, and those that do permit them often accept certain brands only. I love the Flyaway Kids Bed because it takes the guesswork out of your purchase, with a full list of approved and at-the-stewardess’-discretion airlines on its website. It inflates relatively quietly in just 90 seconds to create a full, secure bed that serves the dual purpose of preventing toys rolling onto the floor. It’s relatively compact by travel bed standards but will still take up about three pounds of your precious carry-on allowance.

Best Teething Toy

Lamaze mortimer the moose clip & go.

Traveling with a baby is one thing. Traveling with a teething baby is a whole different ball game. You’ll want to pack teething gel and possibly (if recommended by your doctor), some infant Tylenol. A toy with chewable elements for soothing sore gums is another lifesaver, both for your baby and your fellow passengers. 

When I took my daughter on a 11-hour flight at 18 months, she was cutting several teeth simultaneously. The Mortimer the Moose Clip & Go from Lamaze was her go-to comforter. She loved chewing on his textured, easy-to-clean antlers and tail rings, while his brightly colored crinkling and jingling hooves helped provide distraction from her discomfort. When she finally drifted off, multi-use Mortimer also doubled as a plushy for cuddling.

First 100 Words

A tray table is key to many methods of entertaining a wide-awake baby, whether you’re helping them play with stickers and stacking toys or using it as a tablet stand. Takeoff and landing can therefore be tricky — not only does the tray table have to be stowed, but this is the time babies are most likely to be affected by changes in cabin pressure and most in need of distraction.

Books are a great option during these times: they’re mess- and noise-free, have no moving parts to roll away while the seatbelt signs are on, and are easy to grab before stowing your bag in the overhead bin. My kids loved Roger Priddy’s First 100 Words long before they were able to talk. It’s got big, bright, colorful images of familiar items ranging from pets to food and more than 35 flaps for keeping baby engaged. It’s also travel-sized with sturdy board pages.

Best Noise-Free Toy

The first years stack up cup toys.

The first time I flew with a baby, one of my greatest sources of anxiety was disturbing or upsetting other passengers. I quickly learned that you can’t always control how much noise your baby makes; but you can make sure their toys are quiet. If they’re interactive and simple enough for the baby to use with minimal assistance, all the better. 

Stacking cups punch way above their weight in this category. My kids loved this simple set from The First Years. Both of them could be entertained for an amazing amount of time by nesting the cups and taking them apart again, using them to build towers, or playing hide-and-seek with some small object placed underneath them. A sturdy clip keeps the cups neatly together and when you reach your destination, small holes transform them into fun beach or bath toys.

Best Tablet

Amazon fire 7 kids edition tablet.

In an ideal world, we’d be able to keep our little ones entertained without resorting to screen time. But trust me, if there’s ever a time and place to relax the rules, a couple of hours into a long-haul flight is it. When all else fails or I simply need a break, I let Paw Patrol (in my daughter’s case) or Thomas the Tank Engine (in my son’s) take over. 

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet is the smallest and most portable of Amazon’s tablets made especially for kids. It comes in a virtually indestructible kid-proof case with a built-in stand for your airplane tray table. A Parent Dashboard allows you to filter age-appropriate content and purchases. It also includes a subscription to Amazon Kids+. Choose 16 or 32 GB of storage and relax knowing that for the first two years, any device that breaks will be replaced free of charge.

As Dr. Prevatt points out, the low level of humidity on board makes it especially important to keep your baby hydrated. Remember that breast milk, formula, and baby food are exempt from standard liquid limitations . Sharpe confirms that cabin crew will never impose restrictions on breastfeeding at any stage of the flight unless there’s an emergency. And flight attendants can always provide warm water for heating bottles, although it’s best to avoid asking during busy meal services. Consider investing in a portable warmer for full independence. Finally, snacks are great for both sustenance and entertainment.

Best Portable Bottle Warmer

Tommee tippee travel baby bottle warmer.

 Amazon

Whatever stage your baby’s at and whether they take formula, bottled breastmilk, cow’s milk, or even puréed food in a jar or pouch, it’s likely they prefer their food served at body temperature. This isn’t as simple to achieve on a plane as it is at home, because the commercial convection ovens used to heat adult meals are impractical for warming baby food. 

This is where the beautifully simple Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Portable Bottle Warmer comes in. It doesn’t require electricity or any other external heating source — instead, it consists of an insulated, stainless steel flask with a leak-proof lid and sturdy plastic sheath. Simply pour boiling water from the flask into the upturned sheath and sit your bottle or pouch inside to warm up. The warmer fits compactly into your bag and can be refilled as needed by the cabin crew.

Best Formula Dispenser

Lotcow portable powder dispenser.

Flying with a formula-fed baby can seem daunting, simply because of the extra time and effort required to get your crying child what they need as quickly as possible. The key to minimizing stress for everyone is advance preparation. Instead of bringing your regular formula tub with you and attempting to measure out powder in the cramped confines of your seat, use a portable powder dispenser like this one from LotCow. 

Made from BPA-free plastic, the dispenser consists of four separate moisture-proof and leak-free containers that stack together to create a conveniently packable cylinder measuring roughly seven by three inches. Each one holds about two ounces of milk powder that can be tipped into baby's bottle in seconds. On shorter flights, you could even use some of the layers for storing snacks.

Best Travel Cup

Munchkin miracle 360 trainer cup.

Starting at six months, babies should be offered a drink of water with every meal. This is especially important on a flight, where low humidity levels can cause dehydration even in adults. Some children master the art of drinking out of a proper cup quicker than others, but if yours (like mine) ends up soaked every time, you’ll want a sippy cup for travel.

I loved the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy Cup so much the first time around that I sought it out for my second child even after moving countries. First, it’s truly leak-free, with a soft plastic valve that fits all the way over the top. It’s also spoutless, which means babies can drink from anywhere around the rim in a way that protects their dental health and encourages normal muscle development. The handles fit little hands perfectly and it’s easy to clean on the go.

Best Snack Container

Bentgo kids chill lunch box.

If your baby is old enough for solid foods, there’s good news. Packing a snack box not only ensures they’ll be full even if they don’t like whatever baby meal is served on the flight; it’s also one of the very best ways to keep them entertained. Bento boxes help with this by providing spaces for lots of different foods for maximum interest. 

The Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box stands out for its quality construction, leak-proof clip-and-seal design, and choice of bright, baby-friendly colors. It offers four compartments of varying sizes for everything from cereal to fruit pieces or sandwich fingers and (best of all), an optional, built-in ice pack that fits underneath the food tray to keep contents fresh and safe to eat even after hours in the air. When you get to your destination, it’s dishwasher and microwave safe.

Before you travel, it’s important to decide how you’ll be transporting baby through the airport. It’s often a long walk, sometimes with connecting buses or trains, so keeping your little one safely secured and supported is crucial. A baby carrier is a great option for navigating crowds with minimal fuss while keeping your hands free. You can also take your stroller all the way to the airplane door. If you plan on doing this, Sharpe recommends investing in one that fits into the overhead bin rather than having it checked to avoid unnecessary delays at the other end. Alternatively, she says, the Doona X stroller doubles as a car seat that can be used on board.

Best Baby Wrap

Keababies baby wrap carrier.

My daughter was born in South Africa, where wraps like the KeaBabies Original Wrap Carrier are one of the most popular and traditional methods for hands-free baby carrying. Although it took me a few tries to perfect the art of tying the wrap correctly (definitely something to master before you fly), she loved its womb-like closeness. It’s great not only for getting babies from point A to B in the airport, but also as a way of comforting them or getting them to sleep onboard. 

Consisting of a single length of stretchy, sturdy fabric, the KeaBabies wrap offers just the right amount of elasticity to hold and support your baby securely, while distributing weight evenly to minimize strain on your back and shoulders. It’s one-size-fits-all can be worn by mom or dad with zero adjustment, is safe from birth, and packs away compactly when not in use.

Best Baby Carrier

Ergobaby 360 cool air mesh carrier.

Although wraps like the KeaBabies one are technically suitable for children up to 36 months of age, I found that both of my kids were too heavy for me to carry in this way by the time they were around nine months old. The natural next step is a soft carrier like the ergobaby 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier, which is designed for use from 4 to 48 months (up to 45 pounds.) 

The ergobaby 360 stands out for its award-winning design, which allows you to switch between four comfortable and safe carrying positions: on the front of your body facing inwards, on the front facing outwards, on the hip, or on your back. When forward facing, the baby’s hips are held in the “M” position to protect against hip dysplasia. Breathable mesh keeps them from overheating, while padded shoulder straps and a wide waistband save your back and shoulders.

Best Lightweight Stroller

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Although you can use any stroller all the way up to the airplane door and then have it checked separately, the Babyzen YoYo2 with a newborn pack (suitable for babies zero to six months) is one of the few that folds compactly enough to fit in the overhead bin. It can be folded and unfolded with one hand, which is a lifesaver when trying to juggle your baby, diaper bag, and passport simultaneously.

It also tips the scales at just 14.5 pounds. This lightweight compactness makes it ideal not only for air travel, but also for exploring your destination because it fits just as easily into an overhead bin or taxi trunk. The stroller includes a five-point harness, a comfortable one-inch, lie-flat mattress, and UPF 50+, water-repellent fabric. You can also attach the YoYo2 bassinet and later, the six+ color pack for older babies over six months.

We’ve covered the main areas of traveling with a baby, but what about the easy-to-overlook accessories that make all the difference? These range from breastfeeding covers (Sharpe recommends researching whether your destination has any modesty laws that may make this a particularly important choice) to sunscreen (Dr. Prevatt points out that children under the age of 15 are especially at risk of skin cancer if allowed to burn which can occur while waiting on a hot airport concourse.) Look for accessories that make life easier by simplifying essential tasks, whether that’s changing a diaper or finding what you need in your carry-on.

Best Breastfeeding Cover

Copper pearl cover canopy.

While I’m a firm believer that women should be able to breastfeed wherever they like without having to cover up, there is something especially intimidating about doing so in a confined space surrounded by perfect strangers. The Copper Pearl Multi-use Cover is made from lightweight, stretchy, and breathable fabric that provides full coverage without feeling restrictive for either of you. 

I particularly like that the opening is wide enough to allow you to easily view your baby (my son refused to drink if he couldn’t make eye contact) and check for a correct latch. The cover also comes in super handy on vacation as a car seat or stroller cover, takes up virtually no space in your diaper bag, and comes in an endless choice of gorgeous watercolor-style prints.

Best Travel Blanket

Everyday kids car seat blanket.

If your baby already has a favorite blanket, then that’s the one to take on your flight. But if, like mine, they’re ambivalent about which blanket they use as long as they’re warm, the plush fleece Everyday Kids Car Seat Blanket could be a useful option especially if you plan on bringing your car seat on board or if you end up with a bassinet that has a five-point harness. Safety features for the latter vary, but I’ve flown with at least one airline where this was the case.

The blanket has universally spaced notches that align with most five-point harness straps, keeping it secured to the car seat or bassinet so that it doesn’t end up on the less-than-sterile airplane floor every time Baby kicks. The swaddling style is easily unwrapped, too, so that you can prove your little one is securely fastened during turbulence without waking them up.

Best Changing Pad

Kopi baby portable changing pad.

While you’re definitely going to need your regular, full-size baby bag to carry everything you need for the flight, a portable changing pad like this wipe-clean one from Kopi Baby makes all the difference when it comes to the Olympic sport that is attempting to change a diaper in the tight confines of an airplane bathroom. 

When folded away, it measures just 7.5 x 11.5 inches and resembles a regular clutch bag. But when opened up, it reveals a full-size changing mat with a built-in pillow and three mesh pockets with enough space to store up to five diapers as well as other essentials from rash cream to diaper bags. I especially love the smart wet wipes pocket, which features an opening that dispenses wipes for one-handed convenience, even when the pad is folded.

Best Packing Cubes

Remobia hicol tsa-approved diaper bag organizer set.

Organization is the key to minimizing stress when flying with small children. After all, there’s nothing worse than trying to juggle a screaming baby while rooting around helplessly in your bag for an item that has somehow disappeared just as you need it. Enter the Remobia Hicol Organizer Set, a collection of five packing cubes designed especially for parents. 

They’re made from sturdy, transparent TPU plastic, making it easy to see at a glance what they contain. The various sizes lend themselves to categorizing your diaper bag contents (one for spare clothes, one for snacks, one for medicines and so on), while the fact that they’re both waterproof and easy to wipe clean prevents unnecessary mess. They’re TSA-approved for convenience through security and nest inside each other neatly when not in use.

Best Sunscreen

Aveeno baby sunscreen.

Aveeno 

Sunscreen may seem like an odd item to include on this list since there’s no chance of sunburn in the airport or on the plane. However, many airports in hot countries lack covered walkways from the plane to the terminal. It’s also easy to forget to apply sunscreen once you leave the airport in the chaos of clearing customs and collecting luggage. 

Additionally, bringing sunscreen with you guarantees access to a brand you know and trust, and can test on your baby’s skin for sensitivity prior to travel. I recommend packing a travel-sized mineral sunscreen like this one from Aveeno for on-the-go protection. At three fluid ounces, it complies with TSA restrictions and is especially formulated for babies (doctor’s advice recommended for those under six months), using naturally sourced zinc oxide to provide hypoallergenic, fragrance-free SPF 50 protection.

Try not to overpack

There are a lot of items on this list, and many more besides that will be part of your everyday baby routine — from bottles and pacifiers to burp cloths and diaper cream. Remember that you don’t need all of them. Think carefully about which are most relevant for your baby, your flight (duration, time of day, and number of layovers), and unique situation (are you flying alone, or will you have someone to help juggle baby and luggage?) Then, try to limit your packing to the things that you’re most likely to actually use, because flying with a baby is overwhelming enough without having to keep track of or carry a ton of extra gear. 

Consider the flight time

When packing your diaper bag, tailor its contents according to the length of your flight, making sure you have enough diapers, wipes, milk, and snacks to last the duration with a few extras in case of any unexpected delays. If it’s a long flight, prioritize snacks that don’t need refrigeration and consider ways to increase the entertainment value of each one (e.g., individually wrapping some items so they’re fun to open together or cutting sandwiches into quirky shapes.)

When booking your flight, bear in mind departure and arrival times. If you can, choose an overnight flight or one that coincides with your baby’s longest sleep period (I know these are not always the same thing!) And remember: when flying with a baby, if you can stretch your budget to get the most direct route, the extra expense will be well worth it. Layovers shouldn't be too long or so short that you end up having to run to catch the next flight. Minimize stress, wherever possible. 

Prepare for the unexpected

While it’s important to try and resist the temptation to pack everything including the kitchen sink (see our first tip), you should also prepare for a few worst-case scenarios. In my personal experience, these could range from being vomited on mid-flight (pack an extra shirt for yourself and at least two spare changes for baby) to your perfectly well infant suddenly developing a high fever. Dr. Prevatt suggests packing a basic first aid kit with essentials your baby might need since airline medical kits are minimal and not packed with infants in mind. 

She also frequently hears from breastfeeding moms who haven’t wanted to wake their sleeping baby to feed and therefore end up struggling with engorgement. She recommends learning to express by hand in advance or, if you have space in your carry-on, packing a portable breast pump. Meanwhile, Sharpe says that she often sees parents struggle due to not packing enough snacks and activities. If there’s one thing she’d recommend leaving at home to make space for these essentials, it’s a bulky inflatable baby bed.

According to Dr. Prevatt, it’s theoretically safe for a healthy baby to fly from the first day of life. However, most airlines only allow babies to fly from seven days old because it takes a week for the ductus to close (completing the transition from a fetal to an infant heart). If there is anything wrong with a baby’s heart, it most often presents in the first seven days of life. Up in the ai and, away from medical care is not where you want to be should any such issue arise. Premature babies or those with known conditions may require medical clearance to fly.  

Dr. Prevatt notes that the greatest risk of flying with a newborn is to the mother rather than the baby. To avoid postpartum deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), women who have given birth in the last two months should book an aisle seat so that they can perform leg exercises and walk freely around the cabin. Having your baby on your lap puts extra compression on your thigh veins, so take turns with your travel partner if you can. And even if you’re not breastfeeding, abstain from alcohol and caffeine and be sure to drink extra water since dehydration increases risk of DVT.

Babies under two years old are allowed to fly on your lap or in an approved infant car seat. Dr. Prevatt points out that although there have been very few reported injuries caused by an infant sitting on their caregiver’s lap rather than in a car seat, it is still recommended to use a car seat for safety since it is a moving vessel. Policies vary slightly between airlines ( British Airways only accepts forward-facing seats, whereas American Airlines allows seats to be installed in the direction appropriate for the size of the child, for example) so check with yours in advance.  

You should remember that to guarantee being able to use an infant car seat onboard, you must book a separate seat for your baby — a much more expensive option than having them on your lap. Dr. Prevatt also notes that small babies must not stay in an upright position for more than a few hours since it can affect their breathing — so on longer flights, you’ll need to be prepared to cradle them in your arms for hours at a time or use an airline bassinet.  

A bassinet is an absolute godsend, especially on an extended or overnight flight. My daughter spent most of her first 11-hour flight sleeping peacefully in hers. However, the availability of these bassinets is limited because they can only be fixed to the bulkhead. And while some airlines allow you to book them in advance, others assign them on a first come, first served basis which means that you should always be prepared for the possibility of not getting one.

My top tip? Attempt to book a baby bassinet. If that’s not possible, turn up to the airport early in the hope of being assigned one. If that fails, ask if there happens to be an available seat that you can use for your car seat (you should bring one anyway, since a child must still be restrained on car rides in foreign countries and relying on your own is safer than renting). If there is, you may be allowed to use it without having to pay extra. If not, the car seat will be checked for you, typically free of charge, and baby can sleep in your arms.

There are pros and cons to both approaches. A stroller is useful because you can stash items in the basket, it saves you from having to carry your baby (especially great if they fall asleep while waiting at the airport), and you can use it all the way up to the airplane door. Here, Sharpe says, it will be loaded into the plane’s cargo hold by the ground handling agents. In theory, it should be waiting for you near the door when you disembark at the other end, too. 

However, Sharpe points out that occasionally there can be a miscommunication and strollers end up in the oversized baggage pickup area or at the luggage carousel with the other bags, leaving you stranded with no easy way to carry Baby through the airport. I have also waited for quite a while to have the stroller delivered to the correct place, which can be very stressful if you have a short transfer window. To limit the chances of this happening, Sharpe recommends having check-in staff put a note on your booking and re-iterating this to the flight attendants and ground staff on both ends of your journey. Alternatively, investing in a stroller that fits into the overhead compartment eliminates these issues completely. 

Having experienced my fair share of stroller delivery issues, I would recommend checking your stroller in with your luggage for use at your destination and using a baby carrier to transport your little one from check-in to airplane. The many pros outweigh the one obvious con (having to bear their weight all the way), and include being much more mobile in a crowded airport, having both hands free for your other luggage and passport checks, and giving Baby the comfort of being held close to your body in an unfamiliar and overwhelming new environment.

Sharpe says that parents are often unaware that normal liquid restrictions do not apply to breast milk and formula. TSA states that both of these substances are considered medically necessary liquid and put no restriction on the amount you can bring on board. This applies to juice, too. You just need to remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately at security. However, be aware that TSA rules only apply in the United States. Sharpe points out that at Heathrow Airport in London, for example, you may bring aboard up to 2 liters each of baby food and milk as long as it’s stored in a clear, transparent container or bag. Check airport and airline rules carefully before flying to avoid any confusion.

The change in cabin pressure during take-off and landing affects babies’ ears in the same way it does adult ears — by sucking the eardrum backwards or forwards. However, Dr. Prevatt says that this is more painful for babies (and in fact, 20 percent of children experience a pain so severe that an adult would not be able to put up with it) because the Eustachian tubes that connect the mouth and ears are so much smaller.  

This makes it much harder for babies to equalize effectively, a problem compounded by the fact that they can’t understand how to do so. Swallowing is the easiest way to help them equalize. Therefore, it’s important to breast or bottle feed during take-off and landing. I recommend bringing a pacifier as well in case your baby refuses to drink in the strange environment that is a noisy, cramped airline seat. As a breastfeeding mom, I can confirm that getting a good latch can be tricky because both you and your baby will have to wear a seat belt during take-off and landing, making cradling them in the usual way a little awkward.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than 10 years and has flown with both of her children many times since they were four months old. She sought the expert opinion of Dr. Natalie Prevatt, a children's travel medicine consultant and the lead clinician at the Childrenstraveldoc , which offers remote telephone consultations to prepare pregnant mothers and children for travel. Samantha Sharpe also provided invaluable insight from her perspective as a former nanny and flight attendant who previously worked for Qatar Airways and now flies for one of the UK’s largest airlines.

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Carry-On Luggage Essentials to Pack for Smooth Spring Travel, According to TikTok

Save yourself from the headache of checked luggage by following these TikTok travel hacks.

Everyone can use some good rest and relaxation, and we're more than looking forward to getting away for a stress-free spring vacay this year.

But between airlines losing luggage , long waits for picking up checked baggage and  general travel woes plaguing our airlines, it might be time to simplify your travel this season by packing all of your belongings in a carry-on bag. Not sure how you'll fit a week's worth or more of essentials into a TSA-approved 22x14-inch suitcase? TikTok is here to help. 

The video-sharing app is chock full of travel hacks for condensing your clothing and other must-haves into your carry-on luggage . Convenient and affordable products such as packing cubes, refillable toiletry bottles and shoe bags make it easier than ever to pack small. We've also found plenty of little luxuries for making even the longest flights bearable: compact neck pillows, noise-canceling headphones and packable footrests, to name a few. Of course, smooth spring travel starts with a great suitcase, so we've included our favorite carry-ons to shop.

Below, we've rounded up the best TikTok-approved travel products to shop on Amazon and from around the web to help you skip the dreaded check-in line and avoid bag fees, from vacuum-sealed travel bags to the internet's favorite carry-on suitcases. 

The Best Packing Essentials for 2024

It's not really about the luggage, it's about how you pack your luggage that makes the difference. We've found all kinds of nifty packing gear that will make you more organized and more streamlined than ever. 

OlarHike 6 Set Packing Cubes for Travel

These packing cubes are a best seller on Amazon for keeping all your essentials organized, especially for carry-on luggage. 

Vonpri Leak Proof Squeezable Refillable Travel Bottles

Bring your favorite products on board with you using these carry-on-approved silicone bottles.

Yamiu Travel Shoe Bags Set of 2 Waterproof Nylon with Zipper

These zippered bags keep your dirty shoes from touching the rest of your luggage.

Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

This travel bag can hold all of your essentials in one place, helping you save space in your luggage. Plus, it's water-resistant and can hang on the wall using the hanging hook for easy access to your toiletries. 

Travel Sunglasses Organizer

There is finally a solution to keeping your sunglasses from breaking in your travel bags. This sunglasses organizer can store up to five pairs for your next trip.

Shappy 2-Piece Large Travel Laundry Bags

Separate your dirty laundry from your clean clothes with this two-pack of waterproof laundry bags.

Apple AirTag

Keep an AirTag in your carry-on for security just in case you become separated from your luggage. 

Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case

Keep necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more safe and secure with this jewelry travel case from Dagne Dover.

Best Travel Accessories for 2024

Now that you've packed your carry-on, here's everything you'll want nearby to make your day of travel go as smoothly as possible.

Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

For planes without a built-in screen in the seats, enjoy your entertainment without straining your neck using this versatile phone holder and mount.

Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder

In for a long layover? TikTok users love this foldable pouch that can be pulled onto luggage to work as a drink carrier (and it has extra pockets on the back for your phone or boarding passes).

Perfuny Silicone Makeup Brush Holder

Don't worry about damaging your makeup brushes while traveling with this silicone holder. It also grooves inside to work as a brush cleaner.

With Coupon

Tessan Universal Power Adaptor With 4 USB Ports

Don't worry about losing charging power during international travel with this adapter that works in 150 different countries.

Toovren 2-in-1 Luggage Straps

Jealous of travelers who can hook their bags on top of their suitcases? Now you can do it with any type of tote bag that fits on top of your luggage with this highly-rated strap.

Highwind Cruise Luggage Tags for Suitcases

TikTok Cruise travelers love these durable and waterproof luggage tags that will secure your paper luggage tags provided by the cruise line to better ensure your bag makes it to your cabin.

Travel Inspira Digital Hanging Baggage Scale

Never worry about overpacking again. Unlike standing on the scale with your luggage and doing math to figure out the weight, simply loop this around your bag handle and lift it off the floor to see how much your bag weighs.

Saucemoto Dip Clip (Pack of 2)

Dipping fries in ketchup when you're driving can seem impossible, but these sauce holders, seen on Shark Tank , are here to save the day. They attach to the air vent and can hold ketchup in the removable white tray, or the tray comes out to hold bigger sauces that already come in a container with a peel off top.

Beautural Mini Travel Steam Iron With Dual Voltage

If you've been thinking of a travel iron, just read this customer's review: "I originally bought this to use for traveling as I was getting sick and tired of using the irons that come in hotels that are cheap and spill water everywhere. This little iron was such a good buy, very small, easy to travel with, not heavy at all. Heats up pretty quickly and easy to use. I have also started using this for day to day use. Because it is so small, it stores well as well."

Miroposs Rechargeable Slim Makeup Mirror

Airbnbs and hotels are notorious for having dark lit rooms where getting ready can be tricky. This makeup mirror that unfolds to stand up while offering a backlight will stop the dreaded fight for the single bathroom mirror. 

Body Glide Foot Glide Anti Blister Balm

Those prone to blisters know that all the extra walking during your trip can lead to some painful sores, but Body Glide's Anti-Blister Balm can cut down on friction and help prevent blisters from forming. You can also bundle this product with their anti-chafing skin cream.

LokiStashed Velvet Hair Tie Scrunchies (3 Pack)

These work just like your average scrunchie, except they have a hidden zipper so you can hide away cash, lip balm or a single key. You can also choose from a variety of colors. 

Twelve South AirFly SE: Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter for AirPods

Whether traveling for work or play, many flyers use wireless headphones these days — meaning there's no way to plug in to listen when they want to watch the in-flight entertainment on the built-in screen. The AirFly connects via Bluetooth with preferred wireless headphones, including the popular AirPods, and plugs into the screen for seamless listening.

iWALK Ultra-Compact Power Bank

Keep phones alive throughout the day with the help of this compact and portable phone charger.

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

Get some shut-eye in style with a classic sleeping mask complete with cozy contoured cushions.

Everlasting Comfort Airplane Footrest

This ergonomic memory foam footrest hangs from the tray table for a much more comfortable flight.

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Apple's premium headphones offer crystal-clear clarity with a lightweight rubber headband, spacious and comfortable earcups, and excellent noise cancellation.

$549   $519

Jergens Cloud Creme Hand Cream for Dry Hands

Dry skin can happen anywhere, including in the air. Appropriately named Cloud Creme, this hydrating lotion from Jergens is the perfect size for airplane travel.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

This TikTok-approved belt bag is perfect for anyone on the go. It keeps essentials such as keys, wallet, passport, plane ticket and phone handy.

Trtl Travel Pillow

Avoid waking up with dreaded neck pain when you use this top-rated travel pillow that's easy to slip into your personal item.

Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Eye Masks

These foil patches from Wander Beauty give tired eyes a refresh with hydrating ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of dark circles.

COSRX Advanced Snail Hydrogel Eye Patch

Fight those dark circles and fine lines with these COSRX Advanced Snail Hydrogel eye patches with its hydrating, plumping and brightening formula.

Best Travel Entertainment for 2024

If you're in for a long flight or cross-country drive, you'll need some on-board entertainment. Here are our top choices.

ProCase iPad 10.2 Anti-Spy Tempered Screen Film Guard

Before we suggest awesome shows and films for your trip, we recommend securing this iPad protector on your tablet that will black out your screen to those sitting next to you. 

Disney+ Subscription

There are a lot of streaming services you could watch during your travels, but Disney+'s offerings of Marvel, Star Wars and classic movies and shows means you'll have countless hours of content to keep you occupied. Plus, you can bundle it with Hulu for even more hit shows and movies.

Plans start at $8/month

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston

A Reese's Book Club Pick, First Lie Wins  is a thriller that centers around Evie Porter, who is actually someone else and was given her identity by the mysterious Mr. Smith. Evie wants a new life, but one slip-up will change her future forever.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet

For a smooth flight, keep your kids entertained with the Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet. This product includes a year subscription to Amazon Kids+, so your little ones can stay engaged with the content they love.

$190   $150

Winning Moves Games Scrabble to Go Board Game

The classic board game Scrabble has been miniaturized and modified to be the ideal trip companion. All you need is a travel buddy or some kiddos to play along with you. 

The Fun and Relaxing Adult Activity Book

Sudoku, crosswords, trivia and more will keep you entertained for hours with this adult activity book. 

Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024 

Now that you have all your other essentials, it's time to get a carry-on suitcase that's ideal for your specific needs. Here are some of the best carry-on luggage options from around the web.

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Samsonite Centric 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage Carry-On

With over 6,000 positive reviews, this lightweight carry-on will ease your overpacking worries.

$139   $128

VGCUB Carry on Backpack

This carry-on backpack is loved by TikTok travelers for its many compartments and ability to fit everything you need. Best feature? You can take it on board as your personal item.

Beis The Weekender

The Beis Weekender Bag features a dedicated lower compartment designed for shoe storage, alongside a generous main compartment and a convenient trolley strap that allows you to easily attach it to your carry-on luggage, making it the perfect travel accessory for weekend getaways or longer vacations.

iFLY Hardside Luggage Fibertech 20"

The internet-famous suitcase features 360-degree rotating wheels, an inner lining pocket and elastic straps for keeping clothes in place.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

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