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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]
Erin Miller
Content Contributor
187 Published Articles
Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28
Keri Stooksbury
Editor-in-Chief
49 Published Articles 3412 Edited Articles
Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28
Table of Contents
Key takeaways, general packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.
We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.
- Essential items include travel documents, credit cards, toiletries, medications, electronics, and chargers. With these, you are ready for everything.
- Pack versatile clothing, comfortable shoes, and travel-sized versions of your favorite products to save space and stay organized.
- Utilize packing cubes and a travel checklist to ensure you remember everything and maximize your luggage space.
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 the 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.
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 >> 📋
Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet
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.
When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack
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 .
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All about traveler’s checks, plus modern alternatives
January 18, 2024 | 1 min video
Getting ready to travel? One thing to think about is how you’ll make purchases while you’re away. Traveler’s checks aren’t as common as they used to be. So you might want to consider modern alternatives that may offer the advantages of traveler’s checks and more.
Read on to learn more about the ins and outs of traveler’s checks. And find out about other options—for example, credit cards, prepaid cards and mobile wallets—that could help make the most of your trip.
Key takeaways
- Traveler’s checks are paper documents that can be exchanged for local currency or used to buy goods and services abroad.
- Traveler’s checks feature unique serial numbers, making them replaceable if they’re lost or stolen.
- Fees may apply when purchasing and exchanging traveler’s checks.
- There are modern alternatives to traveler’s checks that you may find more convenient.
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What is a traveler’s check.
A traveler’s check is a paper document you can use for making purchases when you’re traveling, typically in other countries. It can be used as cash or a regular check.
Traveler’s checks—you may also see them referred to as “cheques”—are generally printed with a unique serial number. This means you may be able to get a refund if your checks are lost or stolen. The checks are usually available in set denominations—$20 and $50, for example.
How do traveler’s checks work?
Traveler’s checks may be accepted at participating merchants like hotels, restaurants and stores. Just keep in mind that there could be fewer participating merchants than there used to be.
When you purchase your checks, you may notice that they have a space for two signatures:
- First signature: You might be asked to sign each of your traveler’s checks when you buy them. If not, you may want to sign them as soon as possible.
- Second signature: You’ll usually sign your traveler’s checks again when you’re making purchases.
This dual signature method is meant to provide extra security and ensure that only the purchaser is able to use them. The merchant can verify that the second signature matches the first.
How to cash in traveler’s checks
You can use traveler’s checks like cash to pay for goods and services at participating merchants. You’ll typically sign the check in front of the merchant at the time of the purchase.
While traveling, you may also be able to redeem your traveler’s checks for local currency at financial institutions or your hotel.
Potential fees associated with traveler’s checks
It’s possible that certain fees may apply to traveler’s checks. For example, you may need to pay a fee when you purchase them or when you exchange them for currency once you get to your destination. There might also be a fee for depositing unused checks into your bank account.
Where to get traveler’s checks
While traveler’s checks might be harder to find than they used to be, they’re still available. You may be able to purchase them at some banks, credit unions and travel-related service organizations.
Pros and cons of traveler’s checks
Take a look at some of the potential pros and cons of traveler’s checks:
When to use a traveler’s check
You might consider using traveler’s checks in certain situations, including:
- When you don’t have a credit or debit card. Some people may prefer to travel using modern payment options like credit and debit cards. But if you don’t have either, you may find traveler’s checks to be an acceptable alternative.
- When you can’t access an ATM. If you find yourself in a place that doesn’t have an ATM on every corner, you can instead use your checks at merchants that accept them.
- When you want to exchange them for local currency. When you get to where you’re going, you might want to have some local currency on hand. You may be able to exchange your traveler’s checks for currency at certain banks or other financial institutions.
Modern alternatives to traveler’s checks
There are a number of alternatives to traveler’s checks—options you may find faster, easier and more convenient. Here are a few to consider when you’re comparing your choices:
Credit cards
Carrying a credit card may be easier than carrying traveler’s checks. Plus, credit cards can be helpful for making large and online travel purchases like plane tickets and hotel reservations. That’s especially true with travel credit cards , which you could use to earn rewards on travel-related purchases.
Some credit cards may also come with benefits that could be useful while traveling. They might include things like protection from unauthorized charges and the ability to use a mobile app to track your purchases .
Keep in mind that foreign transaction fees may come into play when you use your credit card overseas. While this fee might vary between credit card companies, it could generally be in the range of 1%-3% of your purchase. You may also be charged a currency conversion fee. This fee is often part of a foreign transaction fee.
Some companies don’t charge foreign transaction fees. For example, none of Capital One’s U.S.-issued credit cards charge this fee. View important rates and disclosures .
If you’re traveling with your credit card, your credit card issuer may want to be alerted before you go. That’s because it might flag your purchases as fraudulent if it notices purchases made in an unfamiliar location. Thanks to the added security of its chip cards, Capital One doesn’t require this notification.
See if you’re pre-approved
Debit cards.
When you’re traveling, a debit card can be just as easy to carry around as a credit card. And like a credit card, it can help protect against fraud.
The big difference: A credit card lets you “borrow” money for purchases, while a debit card uses the money in your checking account to make purchases.
It may be helpful to carry a debit card when you’re visiting a country that generally favors cash transactions. In that case, you could use your debit card at an ATM to get cash once you’ve reached your destination. And that may be safer than bringing cash with you and exchanging it for local currency once you’ve arrived.
Keep in mind that you could be charged ATM fees when you use a debit card abroad. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), some banks and credit unions don’t charge customers a fee for using their ATMs. But they might charge you if you’re not a customer—and that could be in addition to a fee charged by the operator of the ATM.
Also, be mindful that some banks may charge a foreign transaction fee when you make purchases abroad with a debit card. You may also be charged a currency conversion fee—often, this fee is folded into the foreign transaction fee.
Some banks, though, don’t charge foreign transaction fees. For example, Capital One doesn’t charge this fee for its 360 Checking account .
If you take a debit card on your travels, your bank may ask you to notify it beforehand. That’s because it could notice transactions made in an unfamiliar location and potentially freeze your account. Capital One doesn’t require this notification , thanks to the added security of your chip card.
Prepaid cards
Like credit cards and debit cards, prepaid cards may be easier to carry around than cash. They may also offer some protection against loss, theft or fraud once you register them.
But with a prepaid card, you don’t “borrow” money like you do with a credit card—or use money from your checking account, like with a debit card. Instead, you typically add money to a prepaid card before using it.
According to the CFPB, there are a few ways you can add funds to a prepaid card. For example, you can transfer money from your checking account or load funds at some retailers or financial institutions.
You might be charged one or more fees for using a prepaid card. The CFPB notes that if you get your prepaid card from a retailer, you should find a summary of fees on the card’s packaging. If you get your card from a different provider—online or over the phone, for example—the provider needs to share this information on paper or electronically.
Mobile wallet
You’ll probably have your phone with you when you’re traveling, right? Using a mobile wallet to make purchases is another modern alternative to traveler’s checks.
A mobile wallet is essentially a digital version of your real wallet. Depending on the wallet, you may be able to store things like credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, boarding passes, hotel reservations, event tickets and other types of personal data.
Mobile wallets can be convenient, allowing you to make quick and easy payments using your phone or other mobile device when you’re on the go. And they typically use advanced technology that prevents your actual account numbers from being stored in the wallet.
There are lots of mobile wallets to choose from. Researching your options could help you see which will work best while you’re traveling. Keep in mind, some merchants might not take mobile wallet payments.
Traveler’s checks in a nutshell
Traveler’s checks can be a helpful way to pay for things abroad, but there are also more modern options available today, like credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards and mobile wallets. And with a travel credit card, you could earn rewards on your travel-related purchases.
Ready to upgrade the way you pay before your next trip? Compare Capital One travel credit cards today to find the best option for you, no matter where you’re headed.
Related Content
What are travel credit cards and how do they work?
Should you send a credit card travel notice?
What you should know about foreign transaction fees
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The Ultimate Packing List
Christine Sarkis
Ashley Rossi
There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .
Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.
The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.
Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.
Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.
Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.
Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .
Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.
After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.
Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.
The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."
Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."
Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."
Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."
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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.
The Ultimate Packing Checklist
To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .
Clothes to Pack
- Dress Shirts
- Casual Shirts
- Sweatshirts
- Laundry Kit
- Leisure Shoes
- Hiking Boots
- Dress Shoes
- Collapsible Tote
Shop Our Clothing Packing List
Toiletries to Pack
- Dental Floss
- Conditioner
- Styling Tools
- Facial Cleanser
- Face Lotion
- Moisturizer
- Contact Lenses
- Contact Solution
- Shaving Supplies
- Makeup Remover
- Menstrual Products
- Birth Control/Medication
- Nail Clippers
- Hand Sanitizer
- First-Aid Ointment
- Insect Repellent
- Pain Relievers
Shop Our Toiletries Packing List
Miscellaneous Items
- Laptop/Tablet
- Film/Memory Card
- List of Medications
- Banking Contacts/Information
- Electronic Chargers
- Emergency Contacts
- Copy of Passport
- Plug Adapter
Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List
What to Pack in Your Carry-on
- Books or E-Books
- Travel Blanket
- Travel Pillow
- Disinfecting Wipes
- Change of Clothes
- Empty Water Bottle
- In-Flight Medications
- Passport/Visa/ID
- Credit/ATM cards
- Insurance Cards
- Maps/Directions
Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List
Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items
When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.
Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.
If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.
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Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.
When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.
And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .
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Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .
Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.
For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .
Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .
Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .
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To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.
Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.
How to Pack Toiletries and Medications
Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.
We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.
Packing Tips for Everything Else …
Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.
A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.
If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.
There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.
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What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.
Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.
If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .
What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling
The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.
Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.
All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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Find your trip or travel credit. When you book a trip on American, you’ll receive a unique 6-digit confirmation code made up of letters. It's also known as a record locator. Example confirmation code: JCQNHD. You can find your confirmation code on your confirmation email or boarding pass.
This guide has packing tips, a printable packing checklist, the best travel apps, and reminders for to-dos before you leave for your trip.
Traveler’s checks are paper documents that can be exchanged for local currency or used to buy goods and services abroad. Traveler’s checks feature unique serial numbers, making them replaceable if they’re lost or stolen.
Leave your cash at home and bring a traveler’s check instead. While debit and credit cards have made traveler’s checks largely obsolete, it may be a viable option for your next trip. Learn about traveler’s checks, how to use them, and whether you should bring them on your next vacation.
Check your passport application status. Traveling Abroad: What You Need. Preparing for a Trip Abroad. Advisories: As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination. International Financial Scams: U.S. citizens can become victims of scams at home or abroad.
Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve ...