overseas travel packing tips

The Perfect International Travel Packing List (+ Downloadable PDF)

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Creating a packing list for your first international trip depends on various factors, like your destination, the duration of your trip, the season, and personal preferences. However, there are some things you’ll always need to put on your list, especially for a first time international travel packing list.

I’ve been to  over 30 countries  and can say, there are items you’ll always need and some you’ll need depending on where your going. That’s why I’ve also created a downloadable PDF of this international travel packing list with the ability to check things off your list and add your own additional items.

I hope this packing list will make planning your trip just a little bit easier! I know how much planning goes into your first international trip so if this is your first international trip or tenth, I’m excited for you! Cheers to traveling more and exploring the world.

If you want to download this, I have it for free in my  subscriber only resources ! It’s an editable PDF perfect for helping you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Packing Tips

International travel means longer flights and ensuring that you are comfortable during your flight. Another challenge that comes with that is how easy it is to overpack in your checked luggage. Still, another challenge is carrying your bags around if you’re staying in historic places or are taking a lot of public transit/walking everywhere. Let’s tackle these challenges with some packing tips!

• Keep yourself comfortable on your long flight with a small bag of essentials that fits under your seat. I recommend bringing compression socks , a neck pillow/blanket , noise-canceling headphones , and wearing comfortable clothes. Plus, any electronics, a portable charger , your passport, and your wallet so they are always in your sight and on your person.
• Pack carry-on only if you can. It will save time and potentially money on bag fees. Plus, it will make packing and unpacking easier. You don’t have to worry about organizing as many things or overpacking. It helps you keep focused on what you need!
• I f you can’t pack carry-on only, bring your essentials in your carry-on . I recommend a few toiletries (toothbrush + toothpaste, hairbrush) and one set of clothes with you in your carry-on. Just in case. There’s nothing worse than getting to your destination, wanting to shower, and then your bag being lost (this happened to me in Peru ). Almost every hotel has shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, so those aren’t necessary unless you’re doing carry-on only.
• I would recommend no more than one carry-on bag that fits under your seat and one checked bag. It can be a lot to try to carry a big bag or a lot of stuff around with you!
• Don’t overpack – instead, plan your outfits. If you plan out your outfits and only bring things for those outfits, you’ll keep yourself from bringing too much. It’s easy when you are going somewhere new or international for the first time to want to bring a lot.
• Be aware of where you are staying when choosing a bag or bags to bring. Many historic hotels and areas do not have elevators. You may have to carry your bag up a few flights of stairs or up small side streets to reach where you are staying. A bag that you can easily carry is key! I recommend this bag from Patagonia . I love it so much, and they offer it in carry-on size!
• Utilize packing cubes to keep your things organized and your outfits clean.

Best Bags and Organization Items for your First Time International Travel Packing List

Yes, you need a packing list, but do you have a bag that will work well on your international trip? You’ll want something durable, easy to carry, and that you can use over and over. Here are my personal favorites.

Organization Packing Items

• Hanging Toiletries Bag : Many parts of the world (including cruise ships on the high seas) will not come with tons of storage space or large countertops.
• TSA Approved Travel bottles : perfect so you don’t have to throw out your favorite self-care products at the security check.
• Toiletry Bag : Easy to pack and water-resistant, this is a great toiletry bag. Comes in several colors.
• Packing Cubes : Packing cubes are a great way to organize your bag and make the most of the space in a larger bag.
• Travel Compression Bags : Use these bags to save space in your bag when traveling.
• Pill organizer : Great option for a travel first aid kit if you don’t want to buy the travel size of each medicine you’d like to bring or have prescriptions you take.
• Jewelry organizer : Great for keeping all your little pieces easy to get to and organized on a trip. This is something I held off on buying for a long time but now love having on trips!

Carry On Options

• North Face Backpack : Plenty of pockets and room as an under-the-seat carry-on.
• Black Hole® Duffel Bag 55L : My personal favorite and current carry-on bag. This is a great option if you want to bring just one carry-on.
• Travel Vest : If you bring the duffle, a great alternative to a second bag is this travel vest.
• Small Duffle Bag : This bag will fit under the seat while you’re traveling and hold your essentials. You can easily put it on top of the hard case luggage linked above for easy carrying.
• Hard case roller bag : Durable and easy to clean, hard case luggage is another great option.

(Consider packing carry on only for your trip too – it’s a great way to save money if you’re taking multiple flights on your international trip and means less wait time at the airport!)

Checked Bags

• Hard case luggage set :  consider getting a set with a carry-on and checked bags. Durable, easy to clean, and organization built in.

Essentials for International Travel

• Passport and visa : Ensure they are valid for the entire duration of your trip. Most places require your passport to be valid 6 months before the trip. Ensure you’re good to go!
• Travel insurance : Including health insurance, if not covered by your regular policy. Medical costs can be very different depending on the country you visit, it’s worth researching ahead of your trip what you need.
• Flight tickets and itinerary : Print or digital copies. I like to have a digital copy and send it to a friend/family for reference in case.
• Hotel reservations : Confirmation details.
• Money : Cash and credit/debit cards. Make sure you are aware of any foreign transaction fees. I recommend having some cash in local currency on hand before your trip (most banks will do this for you free of charge or for a small fee) and using ATMs (if they are reliable in the country you are visiting).
• Travel adapter and voltage converter : Ensure it’s suitable for your destination by researching the compatibility.
• Prescription medications : Carry enough for the entire trip. Keep these in your carry-on.
• Weather-appropriate clothing : Consider the climate of your destination. One outfit per day unless doing a hike or outdoor activity. Then an extra outdoor outfit for that day.
• Underwear and socks : One pair for each day.
• Pajamas: recommend one for every two to three days
• Comfortable walking shoes : Especially if you plan to explore on foot.
• Swimwear : Even if you’re not going to a warm destination, you may want one! If you are doing water activities two days in a row, pack two.
• Hat and sunglasse s

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner (in travel bottles )
• Soap or body wash
• Hairbrush/comb
• Straightener Curler Combo
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal hygiene items
• Prescription glasses or contact lenses

Miscellaneous

• Travel-sized laundry detergent
• Reusable ziplock bags : Useful for various purposes
• Travel-size sewing kit
• Travel-size first aid kit : add Blister Pads , Immodium , Pepto Bismol , Benadryl  , and Advil
• Door Stop   (for safety)
• Foldable Backpack (for day trips)
• Travel lock

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Laptop/tablet and charger
• Portable Charger with Fast Charging Technology :
• Camera  for photos
• Noise-canceling headphones

In your Carry On (beyond electronics)

• Travel pillow/blanket (use code megelise for 15% off!
• Entertainment: Books, magazines, or e-reader
• Notebook and pen

Here is the downloadable and editable first time international travel packing list! Remember to customize this list based on your specific destination, the duration of your trip, and any unique needs you may have. Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey!

Related posts

Perfect Packing List for Beach Vacations

Carry on Only Packing List: Must Haves and What to Leave Behind

What to Pack for Puerto Rico: Tips + Downloadable Check List

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International Travel Packing Checklist: What Gear to Bring

We use affiliate links, and receive a small commission if you make purchases through them. Find out more here .

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.

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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

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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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Traverse With Taylor

| Helping You Experience Europe Easily

Ultimate Packing List for International Travel From an Expert

Trying to figure out what to pack for your international trip you’re in the right place.

Packing to travel internationally- especially if it’s your first time- is basically like the hardest thing in the world. What do I need? What if I forget something? Don’t I need these 12 pairs of shoes? Can I even bring this on a plane? Gah. The endless questions. Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. I’ve packed for tons of international flights over the years and have figured out a method to the madness. Here you’ll find what to bring, how to bring it, and what you absolutely need for that long-haul flight. Here’s your ultimate packing list for international travel:

1. A Travel Packing List For Your Carry-On

Packing your carry-on can make or break your international flight experience. If you don’t have things to do, things to keep you comfortable, and things you absolutely need , then your flight will be less than enjoyable. On the other hand, if you plan ahead and consider what will help you feel most at ease, you’re bound to have an amazing long-haul flight! For the sake of this blog post, I am considering your carry-on to be your personal item. I personally would not recommend that you fly internationally with only a carry-on suitcase unless you have multiple layovers. I’ve done it once, in my early twenties, and I will NEVER do it again. Whether it’s your first international trip or you are a seasoned traveler, you need a packing list for travel. Here are a few words of advice followed by the travel packing list for what you should plan to have in your carry-on!

Get A Well-Made Bookbag

The best carry-on, by far, is to take a backpack. It holds a lot, it is functional and small, and it also zips (which is way more important than you think during turbulence!). Do yourself a favor and spend the money on a decent backpack . There are some things you can chintz on when you’re packing for international travel. A bookbag isn’t one of them. The last thing you want is to be looking for a new bag abroad because your zipper or strap broke. I recently purchased a large North Face backpack that I am obsessed with. It has many pockets and organized sections, and it expands if necessary. It is also incredibly comfortable (with added waist support straps) and durable.

I completely forgot to think about this the first time I packed for an international trip, and I ended up having to purchase one. So, here I am saving you the trouble! You are not going to want to carry your bookbag around during the day once you arrive at your destination. For most destinations, you want a crossbody bag or some type of belt bag or hidden wallet to carry. I personally opt for a crossbody bag so that I can throw some essentials into it like chapstick, lotion, blister pads…you know, the lot. Regardless of what you choose, I recommend bringing it in your carry-on bag. This way, you can quickly change over once your international flight is complete.

Planning a Trip Soon? Use My Favorite Resources Below!

Booking a Flight : Use Skyscanner to find the best prices! Accommodations : I love Booking.com ! Travel Insurance : SafetyWing Is the best in the industry! Things to Do: Use Viator for amazing experiences ! Car Rental: In Europe, I recommend DiscoverCars

Liquid Rules DO NOT APPLY to Medication

A lot of people misunderstand the TSA liquid rules and how they apply to medicine. Your medicine, as long as packaged appropriately, does not need to adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. DO NOT, under any circumstances, pack necessary medication in your checked bag. There is always a chance that your checked suitcase could go missing, and medication is often not something you can get replaced easily at your destination. All of your medicines should go in your carry-on bag.

Get a Printable Packing Checklist!

Click here to grab your FREE Printable International Travel Packing List!

Flying With Medical Devices

My husband uses a CPAP machine, so figuring out how he would use this during our overnight flight to Iceland was a thing . If you’re in a similar situation, for instance, I needed to use a breast pump while flying last year, give some thought to this ahead of time. You’ll definitely need to carry your medical device on in a separate bag. Make sure it is marked with a medical device luggage tag (this has saved us so many security screening headaches). You might consider calling your airline and asking if you’ll be able to use your device on the plane. They’ll be able to tell you about power sources, adapters, and any converters that might be needed.

Are You a Traveling New Mama? Read about how I breast pumped my way around Europe and how you can too!

What Toiletries to Bring

I am a master at packing toiletries for international flights. Seriously- I’ve cracked the code. I use these zippable plastic toiletry bags to prevent leaking! Your shampoo and such…all that shower stuff…it can go straight in your checked luggage. But you’ll still want to put other things in your carry-on- especially things you can’t replace…like CONTACTS! On overnight international flights, I always bring the following: face wash, moisturizer, eye cream, a makeup remover towel, a face mask, toothpaste & a toothbrush, dry shampoo, some light makeup, and an additional pair of contacts with contact solution. Being able to wash your face and take off your makeup on an overnight flight is some sort of luxurious miracle. I am not even joking. You do not want to arrive at your destination feeling like a troll. Not the look. Take your makeup off before you sleep on the plane. Wash your face and put moisturizer on. Then, before your flight lands in the morning, use a face mask (if you’re a tad bougie like me 🤷), moisturize, brush your teeth, put on a little makeup, and spritz some dry shampoo. Voila! You feel like a new person and not a drowned, exhausted possum.

⭐Travel Packing List: Carry-On For a Comfortable International Flight

The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable or bored on a long-haul flight. Here’s what I always take on my international trips, and what I recommend you take in order to be most comfortable!

⭐ Necessary Practical Items For Your Carry-On

By the same token, there are some things that you need to have in your carry-on. These items will help you travel efficiently and travel well. Here’s what needs to be on the rest of your carry-on packing list for international travel :

2. International Travel Packing List: Checked Baggage

I’ve separated this portion of the packing list for international travel because, well, a checked bag is a whole other animal. What to pack for your entire trip in your checked luggage can be a bear . This is where the inexperienced end up severely overpacking, or you get to Europe and realize you have almost NOTHING that you actually need. Not to worry. I’ve made these mistakes so that you don’t have to! Here’s the ultimate international travel checklist for what you’ll want to chuck into your checked suitcase:

First Trip Abroad? Read About the 33 Top Tips for Your First Time Traveling Internationally!

Purchase Quality Checked Luggage

Purchasing luggage is not the time when you want to look to save a buck. Trust me when I say that traveling internationally with a broken suitcase is awful. Even if it’s just a snagging wheel, it’s so much more of an inconvenience than you might think. Purchase a well-reviewed, four-way rolling suitcase. This will help you maneuver easily at all times. I personally like to travel with soft-sided luggage, though I know many travelers who also travel with hard-sided. The choice is yours. If you’re not confident in your own research, here is a sturdy and reasonably-priced suitcase that I love!

The Best Ways to Save Space When Packing

There are a few different ways of packing to save space. You can fold in outfit groups, roll your items, or use packing cubes. I’ve found that a mixture of these tactics works best! First, place your shoes at the very bottom of your suitcase before stacking clothes on top. You can also slide sandals and thinner shoes into the sides once you’re finished packing. For heavier things like coats, sweatshirts, and jeans, rolling them will actually make them take up more space. Fold these as neatly as you can and stack them in a corner of your suitcase. You can absolutely roll other items like shirts, leggings, and thinner clothing pieces. I tend to have one side of my suitcase for rolled items and another for stacked. Finally, I am 100% a fan of packing cubes . I have found that they zip in many more things than I can usually fit! Plus, they are so much easier to organize. I can stack my outfits together and zip them into one packing cube, no sweat. They make life much faster- Especially when I’m traveling with my kids.

⭐ An International Packing List of Items For Your Checked Baggage

Travel Packing List for Summer or a Beach Vacation

If you’re traveling during summer or you are headed to a tropical location, you may want to add the following items to your travel packing list as well:

Everything You Need for a Winter Packing List For International Travel

As with above, adjust your packing list with the below items if you’re traveling internationally for a winter or snowy getaway !

3. Double-Check You Have ALL Necessary Travel Documents

You’re all set and ready to walk out the door on the adventure of a lifetime …WAIT! Stop and check for these critical travel documents. You cannot leave home without them (Seriously, don’t!).

Your Passport

Goes without saying that your passport should be at the top of your travel packing list, right? Well, you’ll also want to make sure that your passport is valid for at least 3 months after your return, otherwise you might be prevented from boarding. Not kidding- this happened to my friend when we were traveling together!

Read Next: Essential Must-Have Travel Items For International Travel

Depending on where you’re traveling to, you may need a visa in order to enter the country. You’ll want to check regulations for this early, as it can take a few weeks to gain clearance. The easiest way to do this is to consult this list of where visas are required.

Credit Cards (With No Foreign Transaction Fees)

The best way to prevent getting stuck in another country without access to funds is to have a credit card with you. Make sure you plan ahead and find a credit card without foreign transaction fees! This will save you a ton of money. Also, be sure to call your credit card company and let them know you’ll be traveling. This way, they don’t shut off your credit card due to suspecting fraudulent charges.

Medical Insurance Card

Emergencies and mishaps happen even to the best planners. Keep yourself safe by bringing your medical insurance card with you. Keep this on your person at all times just in case you need to hand it over to a doctor’s office or hospital abroad.

Travel Insurance Documents

You always think you don’t need travel insurance… until you do . And then you don’t have it. Because you thought it was a luxury. Purchase reliable travel insurance and make sure to carry copies of your policy documents with you.

⭐ I prefer to purchase my travel insurance through Safety Wing! Their plans are affordable and reasonable, and they have an incredibly responsive customer service team!

Birth Certificate

If you are flying internationally with a young child, double-check if you need to bring their birth certificate along with you.

TIP: Make copies of these documents and stash them in your suitcase just in case. That way, if you lose something important, you at least have a backup photo.

Don’t Forget These Easily Missed Items!

No matter how well you plan, there are always things that people end up forgetting. And, they generally tend to be the things that you can’t pack ahead of time. You know, like the glasses you will actually need the night before. Double-check and make a note of these commonly forgotten packing list items:

Things You’ll Likely Need to Purchase For Your Trip

Before I traveled internationally for the first time, I had none of the things I needed . I mean, how could you?

There are literally just so many things you don’t know that you don’t know. For instance, the electric plugs in other countries are completely different. (If you didn’t know that, count yourself in good company). In any case, the point is, there are likely a few key travel items you’ll need to grab ahead of time because you just don’t have them lying around and you can’t really survive without them. Here are a few:

What NOT To Pack For International Travel

Part of traveling internationally is recognizing that you will not have all of your creature comforts with you. Travel pushes you out of your comfort zone- and that’s a good thing! Try to avoid over-packing. You don’t need a new pair of pants for every day, and you certainly don’t need 75 pairs of underwear. If you do a 10-step skincare routine (it’s me. Hi!), what steps can you cut out during your travels? You don’t need to bring your own pillow, and, unless you have some fancy European partying planned, I can promise you that you ain’t wearin’ heels on the cobblestone streets of Amsterdam . So don’t bring ’em! Think about what you can purchase when you get to your destination, too. Drugstores and convenience stores are very widespread- especially in Europe! You can buy bath bubbles (if you must have them) when you get there. And, I hate to be that person, but you could totally also buy extra underwear if you had to, too. Lol!

Your Airport Outfit: What to Wear on Your International Flight

The absolute last thing you want is to be uncomfortable on a long-haul flight. This is not the time to dress for looks, people. Trust me on that one. Wear pants or shorts without buttons. I personally am always flying in leggings. Then, top that with something that can be layered. A tee shirt with a hoodie overtop. Or a tank top with a sweater. You never know whether the plane will be the Sahara desert or the North Pole; it’s always a gamble. Since you’ll likely be walking around the airport quite a bit, wear supportive shoes. You can always take these off in flight if you’d like. But DO NOT ever go barefoot on a plane. They are disgusting . Instead, bring a pair of fuzzy socks or something else to put on during your travel time. Just please, for the love of God, put your shoes back on when you go into the bathroom.

Travel Packing Hacks and Tips

Packing for an entire trip can feel like climbing Mount Everest. It’s a huge job. Thankfully, some travel hacks can make this task much more manageable.

Lay Everything Out Ahead of Time

Seriously, everything. A week before I leave on a trip, my bedroom looks like a tornado came through. Lay everything out and plan your outfits that way. When you’re finished, put things back that you don’t need to take! Also, use this time to write a list of what you’ll need to grab at the last minute (things you can’t pack ahead of time). That way you don’t forget anything!

Track Your Luggage

Grab an AirTag and throw that baby in your checked luggage. You’ll be able to see where your suitcase is at all times. If it gets lost, you’ll at least know where to tell the airline to look!

Wear Some of Your Heavier Pieces

If you’re traveling in winter, chances are you have some heavy coats, boots, and accessories that you’re bringing with you. Consider wearing some of these on the plane or stashing them in your carry-on to help lower the weight of your checked bag.

Use the Space Inside Your Shoes

Accessories like belts and hair things, socks, and even pairs of underwear and some toiletries can fit right into your shoes! Don’t let that added space inside your luggage go to waste!

Tag Your Checked Luggage With Something Visible

Have you ever been at an airport baggage carousel and seen just how many black suitcases there are? A million. That’s how many. If you’re not getting a suitcase that stands out from the crowd, you need to mark your luggage with something visible to make it easily recognizable! I use these luggage handle wraps . They’re cheap, bright, and durable!

Bring a Collapsible Bag

This is one of my favorite international travel packing list hacks! And it’s so ridiculously easy. Throw an extra packable or collapsible bag into your luggage on your way to your destination. Then, when you’re on your way home, use it as a personal item on the plane. You can put souvenirs, heavy clothes, or anything else you don’t have space for in your suitcase right into the bag and save space and weight in your luggage!

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate International Travel Packing Checklist

There you have it! Everything you need for a complete travel packing checklist for your international travels! Plus, some helpful tips and tricks to help you maximize your space and travel like a pro! I hope you have the best trip ever making your travel dreams a reality!

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

International Travel Packing List Guide: Everything You Need For a Smooth Trip Abroad

• Packing Lists

Packing can be the most stressful part of a trip, especially if you’re an overpacker or an overthinker. When you’re going to an international destination, there are even more things to keep in mind. Will your hair straightener be able to plug into the outlet? Do you have a way to organize your travel visas and itineraries? If you organize your bags the right way, you can bring all the essentials plus a few extras to make travel easier. Making an international travel packing list can help to take some of the stress from your next long-distance trip. 

Explore Our Ultimate International Travel Packing List

Our packing list for international travel considers efficiency and multiple climates. We recommend bringing items like tank tops and t-shirts to any destination because they allow you to layer your clothes and adjust your wardrobe to meet the daily weather. 

• Passport holder
• Packing cubes
• Garment duffle
• Pill organizer
• Document storage
• Toiletry storage
• Thick socks
• Undergarments
• Windbreaker
• Leisure shoes
• Walking shoes
• Casual pants
• Formal pants/tops

Electronics 

• Country-specific plug adapters
• Portable mobile device chargers
• Wall mobile device chargers
• Chargeable headphones 

Miscellaneous

• Laundry kit
• Collapsible cup
• Refillable water bottle
• Inflatable neck pillow
• Prescription medication
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• SPF lip balm
• Body lotion
• Contact lens solution (if applicable)
• Feminine products
• Hair products
• Antibacterial ointment

Our Picks for the Best International Travel Essentials

• Best Organizer: Tibes Garment Bag
• Best Electronic Gadget: TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Toiletry: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick
• Best Piece of Clothing: Reebok Unisex Club C 85 Sneaker
• Best Miscellaneous Item: ZNOOOE Portable washing machine

Best Travel Organizer: Tibes Garment Bag

• 2-in-1 bag for carryon
• Waterproof shoe pocket
• Suitcase trolley sleeve
• May get heavy
• Time-consuming to pack

Photo Credit: Amazon

About Tibes Garment Bags

This bag is an ideal carry-on for a long flight. It’s just 21 inches long, which means it meets most airline restrictions for overhead compartments. The bag can be laid flat with one long zipper down the middle and two side pockets. Once these garment compartments are filled with clothes, you can fold it back up into its regular duffle bag shape and put yet more stuff in the middle. You’ll have anything you might need at your disposal during an international flight at your fingertips. 

Why We Like It

Simply put, this bag can hold a lot of clothing and other essentials. If your checked bag doesn’t arrive at the airport for some reason, this duffle has enough room to store multiple outfits and an extra pair of shoes. The front zipper is a great place to tuck your phone or boarding pass for easy access.

Best Travel Electronic Gadget: TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter

• Compact size
• Works in multiple countries
• Multiple USB outlets
• Not compatible with every wall outlet
• Can’t convert voltage

About TESSAN Universal Travel Adapters

If you’re worried about having the right plug for your destination, this device takes some of the stress away. The travel adapter can create multiple plug formations. Push the levers on the side of the device one way, and the prongs for a US outlet emerge. Rearrange the levers, and suddenly the prongs for a UK outlet pop out. There are also multiple USB plugs on the side. It’s worth noting that this supports 100V to 250V dual voltage and is not able to convert voltage.

The adapter works in various regions, including Europe, Australia, Asia, South America, and the Middle East. If you’re traveling to multiple countries, you’ll only need to keep track of one adapter instead of two or three. You can plug in multiple devices at once and use it as a charging station once it’s in the wall. Plus, it’s lightweight and affordable.

Best Travel Toiletry: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick

• Fragrance-free
• Lightweight
• May not be suitable for sharing
• Only water resistant for 40 minutes

About CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Sticks

Strong sunscreen is essential when you’re on the go, even in cold temperatures. This stick is easy to apply and doesn’t require getting your hands messy. It’s SPF 50, which is good for sunny days. Because you apply it directly to your face, you may want to bring an individual sunscreen stick if you don’t feel comfortable using the same one as your travel mate. In any case, these sticks are easy to bring along in a day pack, and you don’t have to worry about them spilling like you would with a regular tube of sunscreen.

This is the best sundry to bring on an international trip because sunburn can be painful and even dangerous. Keeping this on hand may keep you from having to track down aloe or even visit a medical professional while you’re on vacation. We love it for any environment because you can just throw it in a bag and go. It can also be used on more than just your face for warm weather vacations where you need to protect more skin.

Best Piece of Travel Clothing: Reebok Unisex Club C 85 Sneakers

• Comfortable
• Great for walking all day
• May dirty quickly
• Should be broken in before the first wear

About Reebok Unisex Club C 85 Sneakers

These basic sneakers have thousands of positive reviews for use as walking shoes . They can be worn with thick or thin socks and would look good with jeans, shorts, or a casual sundress. According to reviews, the sneakers let you put a lot of mileage on them before they crack. A lot of people say they were tight at first, but once they’re broken in, they’re super comfortable and great for travel.

A reliable pair of walking shoes is essential for any trip. You don’t want to be caught overseas with sore feet, and these shoes have a lot of padding to provide support and help you avoid blisters. Because they’re white, you can pair them with just about any outfit while you’re traveling. They could go from the city to a campground and back again.

Best Miscellaneous Travel Item: ZNOOOE Portable Washing Machine

• Small and lightweight
• Fits in a suitcase
• Easy to operate
• Requires electric power
• Can’t fit large garments

About ZNOOOE Portable Washing Machines

This small portable washing machine can be plugged in and used to wash undergarments, t-shirts, and other small items when you’re away from home. The washing machine is just over six inches high and nine inches wide when you fold it down. The gadget could fit into a carry-on or checked bag, and it only takes one hour to complete a cycle. You could run it while you’re at dinner and then hang your clothes to dry overnight. 

Running out of clean underwear and socks is a hassle when you’re traveling. Even worse is having to track down a laundromat when you’d rather be at a museum. We love that this portable machine is compact, light, and uses low voltage. It also has three timed settings. Whether you’re going glamping somewhere, taking a cruise , or staying in a hotel, this little laundry machine could be a lifesaver.

3 Tips for Your International Travel Packing List

• Bring clothing options: If you’re packing for a beach trip in the Caribbean, don’t assume it will be sunny all the time. Bring at least one option for a rainy day or overcast lunch. You need more than swimsuits and flip-flops, no matter what you think. Tank tops and short sleeves are great for layering, even in cold places.
• Leave room for new purchases: If you fill your suitcase to the brim, you may struggle to get your souvenirs home. Either bring some old t-shirts that you don’t mind leaving behind to make room for new goods, or leave some room in your suitcase. Do you really need that third pair of boots?
• Pack more socks: One pair of socks per day may not be enough. Feet get sore, smelly, and uncomfortable. And once your feet hurt, it’s hard to maintain a good attitude. Given how much walking and stair climbing are typically involved in international trips, bring plenty of the basics like socks (and bandages, just in case) to get you by.

Lara Vukelich is a freelance writer based in San Diego, California. She has written for sites including Huffington Post, Expedia, Travelocity, and Yardbarker.

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12 Tips to Prepare for an International Trip

Tips for take-off to landing

Going on an international trip soon? The rules for international flights have many dos and don't's. Here are 12 tips gleaned from experienced globe trotters designed to make that long-haul flight easier. 

Pack Lightly

On one of my first international business trips as an adult, I overpacked drastically. Guess who had to carry a large heavy suitcase, a large purse, and a garment bag around Paris at Metro and train stations that didn’t have elevators or escalators? After that, I swore to only pack what I could comfortably carry by myself. Check out my packing tips here.

Choose an Aisle Seat

On long flights, it’s recommended that you get up and walk to stretch your muscles and avoid blood clots in your legs. This is much easier to do in an aisle seat, so book one as soon as you book your ticket.

There's an App for That!

Apps can be a savior when traveling, but especially when you're abroad. You can use travel apps them to keep in touch with your airline, translate different languages, search for services at airports, choose your seats and myriad other tasks.

Dress Accordingly

On a long flight, you want to look well-dressed, but you also want to be comfortable. so you don’t want to wear clothes that cut or bind. I wear a wrinkle-proof jacket that can double as a blanket or a pillow, and I always wear a long pashmina for the same reason. The pashmina can also be used as a wrap, a pillow, a skirt cover and an accessory to dress up travel outfits. Buy my favorite for $10 at the Bijoux Terner website. I also wear slip-on flat shoes that are easy to take on and off at security and on your flight. All of this isbeautifully illustrated here at the Chelsea Tells Storiesblog.

Arrive Early

Most airlines want you at the airport at least two hours before your flight takes off, especially if you’re leaving from a U.S. international gateway airport . It will give you time to check your bags, check in, navigate the airport security checkpoint and get to your gate in plenty of time and arrive ​stress-free.

Zip Through Customs

Those who travel internationally know that U.S. Customs and Immigration lines can be a nightmare, especially at peak arrival times at the major international U.S. airports. Smart travelers carry the  Global Entry  card, which speeds you right past the Immigration and Customs lines. And a bonus -- it also works for the domestic Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck program .

Lounge Around

Because you need to be at the airport so far in advance, consider paying for access to an airline-branded or airport lounge. There are plenty of lounges that allow you to pay a fee for entry. It's good to have time away from the masses before boarding your flight.

Drink Water

It’s OK to have a glass of wine or two while on your flight, but you really need to stay hydrated, because aircraft cabins are extremely dry. And instead of bothering flight attendants for endless little cups of water, go to your local dollar store, buy a water bottle and ask them to fill that up.

Cone of Silence

Nothing is worse than being on a plane with a screaming child or a chatty Cathy seatmate. That’s why I never travel without either a pair of  noise canceling headphones or my Beats Flex By Dr. Dre earbuds. Pop on either of them and enjoy the silence.

Sleepy Time

When it’s time to rest, you want to be comfortable. So invest in an inflatable neck pillow (I know they look silly, but they are a great sleep enhancer), an eye mask and comfortable socks.

Charge Me Up

More airlines are installing power ports on their aircraft, but you can’t always depend on that. When I flew to Paris for Christmas, the flight over had a USB port, but the flight home didn’t. That’s why I always carry mytrusty Mophie Juice Pack Powerstation Duo, which allows me to charge my iPhone and iPad quickly.

Show The Love

The flight attendants are there for your safety. But they also work hard to ensure that our flight is comfortable and stress-free. Show your appreciation by presenting them with a box of sealed chocolates, like Ghiradelli Chocolate Squares or Ferrero Rocher truffles. And although you're not expecting it, they may show the love back to you in return. 

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

Apr 16, 2024 • 5 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 occasions:

Pack like a pro for a backpacking trip

Pack like a pro for any festival

Country-specific advice:

Pack like a pro for Ireland

Pack like a pro for Spain

Pack like a pro for Italy

Pack like a pro for Antarctica

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 and rotate it out. These are available through sites like Amazon or a store in country. You might also check with your device manufacturer. For instance, Apple sells a World Travel Adapter Kit that includes all world plugs.

Here's a breakdown of countries and plug types (which you can see pictures of in the graphic above):

Australia: I

Canada: A, B

Europe: C, E, F *-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)

Japan: A, B

Malaysia: G

New Zealand: I

Singapore: G

South Africa: M

Thailand: O

United States: A, B

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

This article was first published Jun 25, 2019 and updated Apr 16, 2024.

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International Travel Packing List: Your Guide for a Stress-Free Trip

Traveling internationally is such a privilege and I really encourage anyone to do it if they can. I love immersing myself in other cultures, learning history beyond that of the US, and getting out of my comfort zone in a way that just doesn’t happen as much when traveling domestically. Every time I travel to another country I get a greater appreciation for different people and values, and I’m always ready to book another trip so I can add a new stamp to my passport.

Packing for an international trip, on the other hand, can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. As long as you plan accordingly and make sure you have the right travel essentials, you’ll be absolutely fine.

When you pack for a domestic trip, you may generally know the weather, dress code, or stores in the area if you need to pick up something you forgot to pack. There are a few more variables when it comes to packing internationally (think travel adapters and the correct currency), which is why having a well-organized international travel checklist can make all the difference, and make things less stressful. You’re about to go on an international trip – so skip the stress and get excited!

Read on for my international travel packing list, then get your suitcase and passport ready to go.

International Travel Packing List

What to pack in your suitcase.

Let’s start with your largest piece first: your checked luggage. Leave this space for clothes, shoes, larger toiletries, and non-valuable miscellaneous items like a hair dryer or an umbrella . 

I’m a big advocate for investing in high-quality luggage that can literally go around the world with you. I’ve had my CalPak suitcases for nearly 8 years.

The clothes and shoes you pack for your trip are highly dependent on when and where you’re traveling. For example, if you’re headed to a tropical international destination in the summer, you can obviously skip any heavy coats in favor of a light sweater instead.

Regardless of where I’m going abroad, here are the basics I pack every single time:

• Pants, skirts, and/or shorts depending on season and destination
• Tops (be sure to pack dressy options if you plan on some nice dinners)
• Dresses, depending on the weather and/or planned activities
• A lightweight layer in case you get cold (even in the summer, you never know!)
• Coats or jackets, depending on the weather
• Any activity-specific gear like workout outfits, swimsuits, etc
• Comfortable sneakers or shoes you can walk all day in (I’m partial to these sneakers since they’re all white and go with everything)
• Boots, depending on the weather
• Dressy shoes for dinner
• Any activity-specific footwear options like hiking boots, pool slides, or running shoes

What NOT to Pack in Your Checked Luggage 

You’re allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a handbag or backpack. Be sure to bring important and valuable pieces with you and do not check them in your luggage.

I typically travel with a carry-on roller suitcase or large duffle, and this travel backpack . (I love this travel backpack so much, I even wrote a review on it !) I put my travel documents and things I’m likely to reach for the most during my flight in my backpack (my computer, a book, noise-canceling headphones , etc) and then other items in my larger carry-on bag.

Travel documents

My number one international travel packing list tip is to always keep all important documents with you. This includes your passport, ID, visas, itineraries, and any travel insurance you buy for your trip.

Electronics and In-Flight Comfort Items

Most international flights are long, and part of a successful flight means bringing the right electronics and comfort items so you can enjoy it as best as possible. Computers, cameras, iPads, and anything of that sort should always travel with you and not in your checked suitcase. 

I always pack these items with me for international flights:

• Laptop and charger
• Phone charger
• Power bank external battery (I always have this in my purse so I don’t get stranded without a phone)
• Headphones (make sure you have a corded pair that’s compatible with the in-seat TV)
• International adapter
• Camera, extra batteries, chargers, and memory cards (I like to keep all electronic items in a single zipper pouch for easy access)
• Travel pillow
• Sweatshirt with a hood (I hate touching my head directly onto the seat back)
• A book or magazines

It’s extremely important to stay hydrated on a long flight, and while most airlines are pretty good about providing water, you can always bring your own water bottle if you choose. Just make sure you fill it up after the TSA security checkpoint.

Medications and First Aid

In addition to keeping cords and small items in a leather pouch, I pack another one with medication and first aid items, and take it with me on the plane. I keep vitamins and pills in these compact, magnetic capsules . You don’t have to pack a full first aid kit with you, but it’s always good to have a few essentials on hand:

• Any prescriptions medicine
• Advil or Tylenol
• Tums, Immodium, or Pepto Bismol (this is especially important if you’re traveling somewhere new where you haven’t had the food yet)
• A few band-aids in case you get blisters
• Hand lotion
• Hand sanitizer
• Disinfectant wipes (I always wipe down my plane seat)
• Melatonin or sleep gummies if you have a red-eye flight

TSA-Approved Toiletries

You can always opt to pack your toiletries and makeup in your checked suitcase, but any liquid you choose to take with you on the plane must be under 3.4 oz. This rule is international and applies everywhere. 

If you can’t find travel sizes of your favorite items, you can always decant them into TSA-friendly bottles or magnetic leakproof capsules .

If you’re staying at a hotel, forgo packing your own shampoo and conditioner. I know hotel products aren’t the same as your own, but it’ll help save space to not pack them. If anything, prioritize your travel skin care routine so that you can keep your skin in check while traveling. The dry airplane air is terrible for your skin, so maintaining your routine is essential on vacation.

For contact lens wearers: be sure you pack enough lenses for the duration of your trip, plus a few extras in case you need to replace one or have any eye issues. Don’t forget your glasses, either!

Here’s a basic list of toiletry items:

• Moisturizers, serums, and any other products in your skincare routine
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Deodorant (I always carry this in my backpack in case I get sweaty during my travel)
• Contacts, contact solution, and glasses if needed
• Hairbrush and hair ties
• Hair tools (be sure to check voltage and that they work for international travel)
• Dry shampoo
• Makeup (avoid wasting space and only pack the essentials you’d use for a 5-minute everyday makeup routine )

A Spare Outfit or Two

Any time you travel and check a bag – but especially when it’s internationally – there’s a chance your luggage may end up on the wrong plane. Nowadays, there’s enough technology that a “lost bag” usually isn’t lost for good. However, if this happens it could be a few days before it shows up at your hotel or Airbnb. Apple AirTags provide great peace of mind if you want to keep tabs on where your checked bags are.

I always pack a pair of jeans and a couple of basic tees (plus extra underwear and socks) just in case this happens. 

Expensive Bags, Shoes, or Fine Jewelry

I love dressing up, so my husband Matt and I always like to plan a couple of nice dinners when we travel. If you have any expensive or designer bags or shoes, or fine jewelry, pack these items in your carry-on luggage.

9 Packing Tips for International Travel

Review passport and visa requirements before you book your trip.

Before you even book those plane tickets, review any requirements for your passport and visas for the places you’re visiting. Some countries require that your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel dates.  Check your destination’s passport validity and special visa requirements by country here.

Keep All Important Travel Documents in One Place

The last thing you want to be doing is fumbling through your bags to find your passport, ID, local currency, or hotel information. This makes it easier for something to get lost amidst the shuffling, and it’ll make you stressed.

It’s also a good idea to make copies of important documents just in case they get lost. Snap photos of these documents and email them to yourself or make paper copies and keep these hidden somewhere safe. Never put these items in check luggage; they should always be in your purse or your carry-on bag.

Keep these important things in one place, like a section of your bag or a file folder:

• Travel visas, if applicable
• Wallet and credit cards (notify your bank and credit card companies of your international travel dates so they don’t get flagged and declined)
• Local currency
• Any travel insurance
• Hotel information
• Reservation confirmations
• Transportation tickets
• Emergency contacts
• Important addresses (locate US consulates abroad in case of emergency)

For emails containing hotel confirmation or transportation tickets, move these into a dedicated folder so you can easily locate them in your inbox.

Check the Voltage on Your Electronics

Most countries outside the US have different outlets, so be sure to research the type of plug at your destination and purchase accordingly so you can plug in hair tools and charge your phone. A universal travel adapter is great if you’re traveling to multiple destinations or if you plan to travel internationally often.

The US runs on a different voltage than Europe (110v vs. 220v). Check your devices to see if they’re dual voltage. You’ll usually see “100 – 240v” or something written on the item.

This flat iron has universal voltag e and perfect for international travel, as is this dual voltage travel hair dr yer . If any of your devices have a voltage switch, make sure to turn it to the right voltage BEFORE you arrive or plug them in to avoid ruining them.

I also like to bring a travel steamer in case the hotel doesn’t have an iron.

Be Money Smart with Foreign Currency and Credit Cards

This isn’t a traditional packing tip, but you should always pack cash in the local currency of your destination(s) prior to arrival. Order currency through your local bank. Exchanging money at the airport or a money exchange is fine, but they usually have worse exchange rates than banks.

Most places that aren’t super rural do take cards these days, but having cash on hand is also smart in case somewhere doesn’t accept cards, if machines are down, or if there’s poor service. For example, the English countryside had spotty cell service, so my taxi didn’t take credit card, Venmo, or PayPal.

When paying with a card, always opt to pay in the local currency. If you can’t remember, check your credit cards to see if they charge any foreign transaction fees. Call your bank or credit card companies to notify them of your travel plans and be sure to ask about international sister banks in case you need to grab more cash.

Download a currency exchange app to help manage your spending, and so you can always know the US dollar amount of something. I use the free Xe app .

Pack An Empty Bag

If you’re planning on doing a bit of shopping, pack an empty bag with you so that you have somewhere to pack souvenirs and items if you run out of suitcase space.  

This foldable bag is super chic, but you can also find several options on Amazon .

Utilize Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can be extremely helpful for a big trip, and I always travel with them. Not only do they help save space, you can organize the clothing in your packing cubes however you want.

Pack outfits together, and use each cube for a different category, or even destination if you’re traveling to areas with different climates or activities. If you’re traveling with children, maximize suitcase space by packing the cubes by child.

Research the Fashion and Culture of Your Destination

I think it’s always important to know a bit about the culture and fashion of wherever you’re going internationally. After all, part of the excitement of visiting another country is learning new things and embracing new cultures. 

For example, Middle Eastern countries have stricter rules on dressing, and there are often dress codes at European churches or other religious sites.

I always like to do a bit of research on this before I pack so that I can pack the right things – and plan some shopping trips for once I arrive!

Bring a Crossbody Bag

An unfortunate reality of traveling internationally is that there are a lot more pickpockets than in the US. For this reason, I don’t like carrying a top handle or shoulder bag unless I’m directly going from point A to point B in a car. A cross-body bag is a safer option since it’s physically connected to you and can’t quickly be grabbed.

I’ve used this zip-top crossbody bag for the past couple of European trips I’ve taken. It’s not too big but still roomy enough to fit my camera and a thin sweater.

Take Photos of Your Items Before You Go

Taking photos of your items can be helpful for a few reasons.

For starters, if your luggage is lost or stolen, photos can help airline or hotel staff if you need to locate missing bags or file reimbursement claims. (This is obviously the worst-case scenario, and most lost bags are simply delayed and will turn up.)

Second, if you tend to overpack or you’re traveling for a long time, photos provide a great visual so you know exactly which outfit you have with the items in your suitcase.

International Travel Packing Checklist

Download this international packing checklist or Pin it for later!

Packing for an international trip doesn’t need to be overwhelming, you just need to take a little extra time to do it. 

You can pack your checked luggage and carry-on bag as you usually would but be sure to pack a spare outfit or two, and most importantly – don’t forget your passport and other important travel documents.

Have anything to add to my international packing list? Leave your must-have items in the comments. Bon voyage!

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Your Ultimate International Travel Packing List for a Stress-Free Trip (Plus, What to Bring and Helpful Packing Tips)

Travel smarter not harder.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

You booked your flight (and even saved money in the process). You scored the cutest Airbnb or 5-star hotel stay. Now it’s time to pack—oh, crap. What on earth do you bring when you’re traveling outside the U.S.? Sound familiar? Same. Last month, I found myself on a last-minute trip to London …and by last-minute, I mean I flew home from another state the day before my flight out of LAX and packed hours before boarding. (In case you’re wondering, yes, I think I can see some gray hairs from that frightful day.) If you’re a seasoned jetsetter, it probably doesn’t seem like there’s much of a difference from a domestic vacay (aside from that whole passport thing). But if you’ve never traveled internationally, you might feel stressed when traveling with all the specific rules and regulations. That’s where this international travel packing list comes in.

Stuffing your entire life into a stowed bag, figuring out what to pack in a carry-on and remembering to bring a personal item for a long trip can be daunting (what if you forget lip balm?!), but it doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing. When you’re prepared, know what to expect and what things to pack for vacation , those panic attacks at the check-in counter will become a thing of the past.

I like to think of packing in three distinct steps:

• Checked luggage
• Personal item/carry-on (including toiletries, entertainment, legal documents and medications)
• The airport outfit

Once you break your list into organized segments, packing is suddenly way more manageable. Here’s how I do it:

The Most Comfortable Travel Shoes PureWow Editors Have Ever Worn

Differences in Packing for International Travel vs. Domestic Travel: What to Consider

When it comes to traveling, you’ll first want to consider your destination. You’ll want to ask yourself if you’re travelling domestically or internationally, because there are slight variations that may affect how to pack for a trip and what you’ll need to bring with you as you jet off to London, England, versus a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina. (And no, I’m not just talking about your passport…but you’ll need that.) There may be a difference in bag size requirements and weights—which I go into more detail a bit later—as well. There are quite a few things to consider before you begin to pack your bags, so I’ve gone ahead and compiled a list of questions that may help you pack like a pro for trip.

• Where are you traveling?  You’ll want to plan your packing list depending on your destination, because a beach vacation in Mexico will require you pack swimsuits, cover-ups and sunscreen while a trip to Copenhagen may require you pack light jackets, walkable shoes and layers. One of my favorite tricks is to search for content creators living in that destination on Instagram and TikTok, as it’ll give me a sense of the style. (And always leave room in your bag to bring home those goodies you find while shopping.) Don’t forget about the appropriate adapters, either.
• How long are you traveling? Five days? Two weeks? Narrow down the number of days you’ll spend in said location. A short five-day trip realistically doesn’t require five blouses, five bottoms and five shoes. Try to find versatile clothes that can be worn more than once and styled in various ways, as this will cut down how much you need to bring.
• What will the weather be like? Are there heavy rain showers in the forecast or clear skies and heat? Don’t forget to check the weather in advance but remember that it’s not always reliable, so you may want to do some extra recon. For my recent trip to London, I packed a travel umbrella for extra measure knowing that rain can strike at any moment. In the end I didn’t need it, but it was great feeling like I was extra prepared.
• Where will you be staying? What amenities will you have access to? Whether you’ve booked an all-inclusive resort , 5-star luxury hotel or are renting a space from VRBO, Plum Guide , TripAdvisor or any other rental sites like Airbnb , where you stay can greatly impact your packing. Check out the amenities before you leave because you may be surprised to discover there’s a pool and gym on the premises, and many places might supply basic toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash and a hair dryer, which can save you space in that suitcase of yours.
• What activities will you be doing? Make it a priority to glance at your itinerary, because there’s nothing worse than forgetting your swimsuit for your day at the hot springs or only packing heels when you’ll be averaging 40,000 steps a day on cobblestone streets. Your activities can help you best prepare for your excursions and save you from any last-minute unnecessary shopping at the hotel lobby where the prices are exponentially expensive the day of.
• How much space do you have in your luggage? I can’t stress this enough: Be cognizant of the luggage you’re bringing because choosing between a weekender bag , carry-on or check-in suitcase will determine how much space you’re working with. Plus, they’ll each contain their own weight limits and restrictions as well as liquid rules for any toiletry liquids, aerosols or gels. But back to bags…if you need help determining the best luggage brands to invest in, my colleagues put some cult-favorite and popular brands to the test.
• Who are you traveling with?  If you’re a mom, then you know that you’ll need to plan for more children or baby supplies, including diapers, bottles, blanket, pacifier, extra clothes, toys, travel strollers , snacks and wipes. PureWow’s VP of Editorial, Candace Davison , recently detailed everything you’ll need to pack for family vacation . Speaking of family, if you’re traveling in a big group of friends or family, they may have some extra space for packing that you can take advantage of. But be considerate when asking for them to store your stuff, and try to refrain from using their personal space for unnecessary items like a heavy pool float or your backup pair of workout shoes.

Must-Have Items to Pack for International Travel

During my trip to London last month, it wasn’t until I sat in my aircraft seat with a glass of Champagne in my hand when I finally had a second to breathe and realize how unprepared I was during the packing process. Lucky for me, I didn’t have the I FORGOT MY WALLET moment (which has happened before), but an extensive checklist to keep me quite literally in check could have saved me hours of packing and a good night’s rest. Below, I’ve listed out a few must-have items you’ll likely need or want to pack for your international travel, and I even sectioned them out into six major categories for a stress-free process.

• Documents and identifications
• Electronics
• Clothing and accessories
• Medications
• Miscellaneous items

Documents and Identifications for International Travel

• Valid passport (be sure to read up on the six-month rule ; some countries don’t accept passports that expire within six months of travel)
• Cash/debit card/credit cards
• Travel documents
• Boarding pass/ticket
• Insurance cards/documents
• Global Entry
• Reservations and itineraries
• Hotel information
• Transportation tickets
• Emergency contacts and important addresses
• Copies of all these things in case you lose your wallet
• Any other documents (U.S. military ID, visas, birth certificate, etc.)

Toiletries Packing List for International Travel

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Moisturizers
• Conditioner
• Shaving cream
• Contact lenses
• Nail clippers
• Hand sanitizer
• Makeup remover
• Styling products

Clothing Packing List for International Travel

• Lightweight jacket
• Undergarments
• Athleisure/workout clothes

Electronics to Pack for International Travel

• Portable charger power bank

Medications to Pack for International Travel

• Prescriptions 
• Painkillers
• Fever relievers
• Antihistamine
• Decongestants
• Cough drops
• Cough suppressant
• Expectorant
• Diarrhea medicine
• Supplements
• Necessary medical devices and supplies (EpiPens, insulin, inhaler, medical bracelet) 

Miscellaneous Items to Pack for International Travel

• Travel pillow
• Travel sewing kit
• First-aid kit
• Safety equipment
• Disinfectant wipes
• Packing cubes
• Reusable water bottle (empty)
• Compact umbrella
• Laundry detergent
• Waterproof bag
• Laundry bag
• Playing cards

How to Pack Checked Bags for International Flights

This is the big one (obviously). If you’re traveling for longer than a week without access to a washing machine (or just don’t want to deal—that’s why you’re on vacation, right?), you’re going to want to pack every single thing you need in checked luggage. The length, width and height restrictions of the bag may vary by airline, but the majority of aircrafts, including United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, allow bags that measure 30 inches by 20 inches by 12 inches maximum for domestic flights or 27 inches by 21 inches by 14 inches for international flights, including the wheels and handles.

Again, you’ll want to read through the rules and restrictions for the airline you’re flying, and don’t forget to take into account any weight limits. Nearly all checked bags are limited to a weight of 50 pounds or less, and many airlines charge extra fees for additional bags, overweight or oversize bags. Remember, your airline status can come with perks, like an extra bag at no cost.

Key Things to Pack in Your Checked Bag

• Sweater, sweatshirt or a light jacket: limit it to one if you can, as these items are bulky and can take up unnecessary space
• Base layers: T-shirts, tank tops and camisoles are super lightweight, thin and incredibly versatile, so pack a few that you can mix and match
• Bottoms: Trousers, jeans, shorts and skirts are necessary, but can get heavy in a flash. Stick to two or three that you can create different outfits with if you mix and match blouses or jackets.
• Multifunctional dresses: I’m all about a versatile dress that can go from day to night with a swap of accessories, shoes and layering pieces. If you’re going somewhere tropical, ask yourself this: Can you wear it as a beach cover-up  and  out to dinner? On the flip side, if you’re headed to a land-locked destination, make sure it can carry you from brunch to late night drinks on the town.
• Socks: You’ll likely only need one pair for each day, but I always like to pack a few extra for good measure.
• Undergarments: The same rule applies here—one per day plus a few extras, or less if you’ll have easy access to a washer and dryer.
• Shoes: Always, always, always bring a pair of comfortable sneakers you can walk all day or dance all night in. Word has it that the Adidas Sambas can go the extra mile (literally) with nary a blister in sight. If you have more room for superfluous shoes, that’s when you can throw in workout sneakers, heels , flats or sandals .
• PJs : Need I say more?
• Jewelry : Don’t bring your entire collection, just the pieces you’ll wear every day, and only throw the inexpensive pieces in your suitcase. Always wear or store your expensive jewels and designer pieces in your carry-on or personal item.
• Hat: Especially if you’re headed someplace tropical, a wide-brim hat, baseball cap or dad cap might come in handy. To keep its shape, stuff the head with socks and use your clothes as a way to protect the brim.
• Laundry bag: If you’re the type of person who can’t stand to fold your dirty laundry with your clean items, then you’ll want a laundry bag to maintain your sanity and cleanliness. Similarly, for those that stay in the pool up until the last minute of the trip, a wet and dry bag is always a great idea to store your soaked bathing suit.
• Toiletries and makeup: Especially those larger liquids that can’t go in your carry-on. After a few moisturizer and toothpaste explosions, I’ve learned to store liquids in plastic bags. (It prevents a mess from happening from the occasional explosion.)

Packing Methods and Space Saving Tips for Checked Bags

• Figure out what packing method works best for you: Some of us are avid rollers, while others subscribe to the “fold it or bust” packing technique. The verdict? Do whatever fits the most in your suitcase (without incurring overweight fees, of course). Rolling clothing is said to cut down on creases and wrinkles, which is especially helpful for satin and silk items. But sturdier pieces, like jeans, might actually take up more room when rolled, as opposed to folded flat and stacked. Some PureWow editors are also obsessed with packing cubes and travel organizers , i.e., the best way to compartmentalize your items if you want to know exactly where everything is without rifling through your whole suitcase.
• Use every inch of everything as extra storage: If you are packing multiple pairs of shoes or multiple handbags, just make sure you’re using them smartly by utilizing the space  inside  for storage, too. I like to pack socks, belts, jewelry bags and even toiletries that you don’t need in-flight into the cavity of each shoe and handbag, kind of like an innovative, DIY packing cube.
• Plan your outfits ahead of time: This will ensure that you’re bringing multi-functional pieces. If one pair of heels is taking up a lot of real estate, but you’re only going to wear them with one outfit, it might be smart to leave them at home and sub in some other, more versatile footwear. It’s a lesson in strategy, for sure. If you want to be extra organized, take a picture of each outfit and store the images in your Notes app with the corresponding day you’ll wear them. This will save you from tearing apart your suitcase when you arrive at your hotel.

How to Pack a Carry-On for International Flights

Carry-on bag restrictions.

If you’re traveling with only a carry-on bag, the space can quickly get a bit tight. For many domestic flights across the majority of airlines, a carry-on bag should not exceed 22 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. You’ll want to double-check with your airline, as some might have specific measurements that differ than the average. Stricter rules and regulations may apply if you’re flying internationally, too. Some airlines require that all carry-ons to remain under 21 inches in height, and there might be additional weight restrictions, too. Royce & Rocket , Bagsmart , Away and Béis are just a few PureWow editor-tested and -approved carry-ons that my colleagues swear by.

Key Things to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag

• Over-the-counter medication (Think: Advil/Tylenol, Immodium, Pepto-Bismol, Dramamine, Benadryl)
• First aid kit (including Band-Aids, alcohol pads, bacitracin)
• Electronics (camera, laptop, chargers, etc., see the electronics list above)
• Travel documents (passport, ID, insurance)
• A change of clothes (because lost luggage does happen)
• Antibacterial wipes
• Deck of cards
• Feminine toiletries
• Thick socks
• Wrap, scarf or sweater
• Lubricating eye drops
• Extra contacts and contact solution
• Face mist (it’s dry up there!)
• Cologne/perfume

Packing Methods and Space Saving Tips for Carry-On Bag

It’s not unheard of to pack a single carry-on for an international trip. I just did it for my three days in England, and it’s the way to go if you’re jetting around to a number of different countries (Euro trip, anyone?). Plus, there’s no way the airline can lose your luggage if it’s safely tucked into an overhead compartment, right? If you don’t know how to travel with a carry-on only and plan to use as your only piece of luggage, the above checked-luggage packing tips and essentials still apply, you just have to be even more conscious of space as you’ll have to fit all your clothing  and  all your in-flight essentials (yep, and TSA-restricted liquids).

Below, I’ve listed out some methods that may save you space in your carry-on.

• Figure out what packing method works best for you: Like I previously mentioned, the rolling method is great for those lightweight, thin clothes, especially tank tops, T-shirts and silk skirts. If you plan on bringing jeans and a heavy jacket, it’s better to wear those on the plane to keep your carry-on bag from feeling too heavy.
• Plan your outfits ahead of time: Just like in your checked bag, you’ll want to make sure that you’re not packing any unnecessary items. Trust me, you’ll appreciate having that extra space to fit airplane snacks or bring home trinkets, and the lighter it is, the easier it’ll be to lift it into the overhead bin.
• Pack complementary clothes: Pack smart and opt for clothes that can be mixed and matched every day, that way you don’t have to pack a million and one pieces.
• Use compression bags or packing cubes: Not only will the cubes keep everything organized and tidy, but they’ll also help to compress everything down. Psst…that means more space.
• Pack socks inside shoes: Don’t let that extra space go unused. Your socks are going to be living in your shoes when you wear ‘em anyway, so why not store them in there for the trip?
• Narrow down your toiletries: TSA’s 3.4 oz liquid limit is internationally mandated, so if you’re using a carry-on as your only luggage, you’ll have to leave the full-size toiletries at home. However, that doesn’t mean you have to blow your souvenir fund on travel-size items. I love leak-proof reusable containers that fit a small amount of your everyday products, and packing palettes that resemble pill organizers, that can fit multiple products in one convenient carrier. If you’re staying at a hotel with ample amenities (this can also include an Airbnb or a friend’s house; just check ahead of time), then you can most likely leave shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion at home. But I highly suggest bringing along your skincare routine so as to not throw your complexion out of whack while traveling. Even so, try bringing only the absolute necessities—this goes for makeup, too. (Yes, that means the oil you always forget to use can stay at home.) Cue the French girl no-makeup look ladies.

What to Pack in Your Personal Item

Personal item bag restrictions.

As with many of the restrictions and requirements I covered above, personal item specifications will vary by airlines, but many airlines will allow you one personal item (purses, bags, totes and backpacks) as long as it doesn’t exceed 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. Unlike bigger carry-on luggage that you’ll store in the overhead bins, small personal items must fit it underneath the seat in front of you. What’s more, some airlines might place weight restrictions on personal bags, from 10 to 25 pounds, so double-check with your airline before you fill it to the brim with hardcover novels (aka, one of the things you should never pack for traveling ).

Key Things to Pack in Your Personal Item

• Legal documents: We all know that a valid passport is our ticket to another country, but there are other documents you should always bring. For example, do you need a visa to travel to the country you’re visiting? Or are there medical documents you might need in case of emergency? There are also steps you can take to ensure your credit cards don’t get frozen for “suspicious activity outside the U.S.” Important: These documents should  always  get stashed in your carry-on or personal item for easy access at any time and less risk of being lost with luggage. Also, you’re going to want to make photocopies of all your legal documents to prevent total mayhem if they’re lost or stolen, and consider emailing a copy of those papers to a close family member or friend as backup.
• Passport, visa and REAL ID: For starters, ensure that your passport is valid before traveling. If haven’t heard of the six-month passport rule, then you might want to listen up because it nearly had me cancelling my trip a month ago. Many countries require all international passports to be valid within at least six months of entry or departure. Some countries are more lenient, requiring only a three-month expiration period, whereas other countries like Mexico simply requires a valid passport, period. You don’t want to get stuck abroad with an expired passport (although that’s what the U.S. Embassy or Consulate is for, if it happens). It takes about six to 12 weeks to get a new passport, so you should apply for one at least three months before the expiration date on your current documents. Since you don’t want to keep your passport on you while out and about abroad (more chances for it to get lost or stolen), make sure to bring your personal ID. Have a student ID? Take that too, as many museums and stores offer student discounts. Make sure to keep a copy of your passport in your email or on your phone, also in case of emergency. Next, you’ll have to determine if you need a visa to travel to the country you’re visiting. Not sure?  Here’s an easy list  to check. Keep in mind that the visa process can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, so you’ll want to get the ball rolling as soon as your flights are booked.
• Credit and debit cards: Now that most credit cards have a chip, they can be used whenever and wherever your heart desires. Double-check whether or not your card(s) incur foreign transaction fees—if they do, you’ll have to keep those in mind with every purchase you make. I like to bring my credit cards for actual purchases (because, points) and my debit card for taking cash out of ATMs. Hot tip: It’s usually easier (and less expensive) to take money out once you get to the country you’re visiting as you won’t have to pay the same fees you do at currency exchange hubs in the airport. Many U.S. banks also partner with international banks to omit the ATM fees. Just check with your bank before leaving if there are certain international ATMs you should look for. You’ll also want to make sure to contact your bank to let them know when and where you’re traveling, so they don’t accidentally freeze your cards for suspicious activity. You can call them, visit a branch in person or even set a notice on your banking apps.
• Urgent medication: You never know when you’re going to need medication, and if you have health issues, you’ll want to have your meds where you can reach them. Don’t risk having a health scare during turbulence when the seatbelt sign is on.
• Lip balm and moisturizer: I always like to pack some medicated lip balm and a travel-size moisturizer in my purse because it is dry as heck 40,000 feet in the air. I’m not the type of person who will get up and rummage through my overhead carry-on for a small tube of lip-gloss, so I must always have it in my small personal item lest I be met with chapped lips at the end of the flight.

How Many Outfits Should You Pack for a Week of International Travel?

When you have infinite options hanging in your closet, it can be a difficult task to consolidate it all into one small suitcase. Good news: TikTok’s ‘333’ Packing Method can simplify your packing tenfold. PureWow Senior Editor Dana Dickey says, “The 333 Packing Method dictates that you should pack only three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes, and you’ll wind up with 21 looks.”

When it comes to traveling, learn to lean on your capsule wardrobe because you can always buy trendy pieces and authentic designs from the place you’re visiting. Another popular method created by Collective Gen blogger Geneva Vanderzeil is the 5-4-3-2-1 packing rule, which states you’ll bring five sets of socks and underwear, four tops or blouses, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. Both packing methods share one thing in common: They force you to boil it down to versatile basics. Or you can follow Chrissy Tiegen’s vacation packing list and whittle it down to only three pieces. (Gasp!)

What to Wear on an International Flight

You’ve mastered the art of the fold and roll. You maximized all the space inside your shoes and handbags. And your passport is ready for a new stamp (or six). The last piece of the puzzle? Figuring out what to wear to the airport. It might sound silly, but it’s crucial to a comfortable, long flight. First, consider airplane cabin temperature and the climate you’re traveling to. I like to dress in easy-to-peel-off layers in case I get hot mid-flight, and I always keep some thick socks in my carry-on for when I get cold, too. My go-to formula usually looks something like:

• T-shirt or tank top
• Pants with stretch ( leggings or pants that feel like leggings are great, but if you’re trying for style, cashmere or linen pants  are even more comfortable and polished)
• Sweater, sweatshirt, blazer or jacket (it’s a good idea to wear bulky outerwear items on the plane so they don’t take up valuable space in your suitcase)
• Cozy socks (or compression socks if you’re serious about blood circulation)
• Easy on-off shoes (like slip-on sneakers—in case you have to take them off through airport security)
• Hat or beanie (you can store this in your carry-on and wear it when you want to catch some ZZZs—the hat or beanie can cover your eyes and block out light)

OK,  now  you’re ready to jet. Just don’t forget the airplane snacks.

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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.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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:

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

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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.

60 Travel Packing Tips from the Experts

Packing , Packing Tips

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

I am excited to share these travel packing tips with you! This is the collaborative effort of over 50 of the best travel bloggers in the business! From travel wardrobe basics to practical tools and ideas, these expert packing tips reveal a treasure trove of information sure to make your trip planning easier. Pack light and pack smart!

60 Travel Packing Tips

Sleep Mask by Bedtime Bliss

Packing Tips for Comfort on Flights

If you travel regularly, keep the basics in your backpack . It saves a lot of time! Don’t forget earplugs, a light scarf, medicines, a sleeping mask, and little scissors! A World to Travel

Bring lip balm, ear plugs, a notepad, and panty liners for long flights . The liners help prevent yeast infections and doubles the life of your underwear.  Green Global Travel

My friend From Zurich shares her top packing tips: Bring a scarf because they are so multifunctional! You can use it if it’s cold, if you need to cover up, to sit on, and more. On plane trips, I must have: a small toiletry bag with eye drops, moisturizer, sanitizer, aspirin, and ear plugs. The ear plugs can block out loud snorers in dorms.

If you’re facing an upcoming trip with an extremely long travel time, our readers share their best tips on how to survive long flights !

Packing Cubes

Packing Tips for Travel Organizers & Travel Bags

Use colored packing cubes  to organize your clothes. That way, you can pull out the “shirts” bag quickly without searching and dumping out an entire backpack. Around the World in 80 Jobs

Don’t bother with those fancy, expensive travel towels . Instead, get a sarong. It’s cheap and multi-use: use it as a wrap, lay it out for picnics or sunbathing, or dry off with it. They’re super light and dry quickly, even in humid places. For packing, invest in packing cubes ! They make packing and living out of a suitcase/backpack more organized and much easier. It’s one of my best packing tips.  1 Dad 1 Kid

Bring a range of see-through plastic bags with you. They are useful for keeping dirty or wet clothes separate from clean clothes, replacing lost cosmetics bags, storing souvenirs, keeping dirty shoes contained, and just generally keeping your backpack organized without needing to empty it every time you want to find something. Plastic bags are very useful if you like to compartmentalize, like I do. Vicky Flip Flop Travels

Always pack a few plastic baggies in different sizes. They are great for swiping food for lunch from the buffet breakfast or for saving the seashells your child collected. As a bonus, bring a small, collapsible cooler with a baggie filled with ice from the hotel to keep your lunch cold or to refrigerate something you pick up from the store for later. There and Back Again Travel

Always carry a huge garbage bag (clean, of course!) in your backpack’s top pocket. You never know when you’ll need to protect your backpack from a downpour or from wandering hands in your hostel.  Solitary Wanderer

My best advice when it comes to packing: ziplocs! I keep everything in ziploc bags–from toothpaste to shampoo to sunblock–to prevent them from damaging my clothes or electronics. It’s a cheap and easy solution to make sure your face cream doesn’t stain your favorite jeans! Beatrice BP

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes . If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings and travel capsule wardrobe . This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

Compression Sack

I pack my daily supplements and vitamins in small ziploc bags to reduce bottle bulk. Geogypsy Traveler

It’s one of the often-repeated packing tips but seriously– a bunch of bags to separate out your clothes will prove invaluable. Compression sacks, packing cubes , or just stuff sacks–use them to keep things organized and smush clothes into a smaller bundle. Just make sure they’re not plastic! Chasing the Wild

Make sure all your liquid items are in bags or separated from the rest of your things. That way, if one of the bottles gets damaged, it won’t get all over your entire wardrobe! The Kay Days

Instead of plastic bags, use cloth hotel laundry bags for storage. They are reusable, washable, and don’t make that annoying rustling sound if you find yourself in a hostel in the middle of the night searching for something. Man on the Lam

Use compression bags to pack your clothes . Not only do they save space in your bag, but they also double as waterproofing for valuables when you’re out exploring.  Flip Flops Abroad

Space bags are great, but don’t forget you’ll need to go through that process every  time you open your bag. Is it worth it? It’s One World Travel

Here’s the  best packing organizers  for travel!

Delsey Helium Aero Carry On Luggage

Travel Packing Tips and Tricks

Roll stuff, don’t fold it; it seems to take up less space, in my experience. Also, leave at least half of what you were going to take behind; you’re not going to need it. You won’t believe me and you’ll take it anyway, because everyone does, at least the first few times. Finding the Universe

I always roll my clothes because it takes up less space and makes them less wrinkly. I also bring an extra pair of contact lenses, no matter how short the trip. I pack my glasses and a pair of underwear in my carryon in case of delayed luggage. Monkeys and Mountains

Pack elastic bracelets as they can double as hairbands and can be used to hold small items together. Also, I’ve never regretted taking packs of mini tissues. Southwest Compass

I like to bring a few sheets of tissue paper along. I use it to roll up anything that is likely to get wrinkled. Works great. Bond Girl Photos

Use a suitcase where you can strap your clothes down tightly. It works like an iron.  Boomeresque

Read these tips on packing cubes vs packing folders and find out what’s the best for you!

Shop Sizes XS-4X:  J.Jill

Packing Tips for Fashionistas

Packing light provides you and your trip flexibility . Therefore, I pack mostly black or blue jeans and clothes and provide color with scarves and accessories. I am also a confirmed “roller”. Family Travel

Bring the jeans, leave the heels. Make sure you bring the right bras. When you’re stacked, it can be a real challenge to make sure the girls are locked and lovely. My fave combo is one everyday bra, one sexy bra, and one sports bra. A bunch of packing tips in one shot!  It’s One World Travel

If you love your jeans, just pack them. No matter what else someone tells you—they take too long to dry, they smell bad wet, they are heavy—yes, they are all of those things…but they are also something you’ll likely wear every day on the road, just like at home. Oh, and use  packing cubes ! A Little Adrift

Our readers voted for the best black travel pants and these were their favorite styles!

Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress

Think twice about the hiking boots. Not only are they bulky and heavy, but I find that even when I’ve packed them in the past, I’ve felt more comfortable wearing a pair of Toms or Chucks. Unless you’re thinking about some serious hiking, you can get away with a much lighter (and more fashionable) shoe like this one .  That Backpacker

Bring a black or brown dress and tops with you. I call it the “safe” colors. You can wear them anytime, anywhere. Bringing one stiletto or high-heeled shoe helps, especially if you need to attend a formal event. In terms of packing, bring cotton tops and if you’re going to a tropical country, avoid bulky clothes. Senyorita

Be conservative with shoes. Even shoes that you normally consider comfortable may pinch your feet or give you blisters. Go for the most comfortable yet neutral shoes you can find, and make sure they’re broken in. Bring cuter shoes for short outings or evenings. This is My Happiness

Wherever you are going and in whatever climate, always, always have a posh frock and heels in case you need to dress up.  Escape Artistes

.Here’s the most comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel!

Plaid Blanket

No matter the climate I’m going to, I always travel with at least one scarf . It takes up virtually no room, and yet can have so many uses. A scarf can dress up a boring travel outfit, give you a bit of warmth in chilly locales, help you cover up in conservative destinations, and can even serve as a pillow or sarong in a pinch.  Dangerous Business

One of my top packing tips is to resist last minute urges to pack extras (like extra t-shirts). Allow 30 minutes extra time before you leave for the airport to edit what you’ve put in your bag. Aim to take at least three items out.  30 Traveler

I pack lots of scarves. They use practically zero room in a suitcase and are so versatile. They allow me to create multiple outfits from the same top and bottom by providing different colors and textures, and they also can serve as protection against the cold or sun. I have used a scarf as a picnic blanket and as something soft (or protective) to sit on. Also, I pick up scarves wherever I go so it turns into a travel moment, too! Misadventures with Andi

A little black dress, cute flats, and a shawl go a long way.  Nomadic Chick

Here are eight different ways to wear a scarf when you travel!

The Chrysalis Cardi

Lay out all the clothes you intend to take …then put half of them away! I’ve never regretted not taking any piece of clothing on a trip but I have regretted packing too much. Take double the amount of underwear that you think you’ll need. A girl can never have too many pairs of clean knickers.  Flashpacker Family

When in Asia, always travel with a scarf. It’s perfect for places that use a bit too much air conditioning (you can throw it over your shoulders) or wear it as a skirt if your clothing isn’t appropriate for temples. A scarf always makes clothing look a bit more put together. Asia Travel Tales

Bring versatile clothing that you can reuse in several outfits. I especially love wrap dresses that you can change from one-shouldered to halter to strapless and more!  Christine in Spain

Want to look good while you travel? Bring the same clothes and styles you love at home  as long as they’re reasonable and don’t take much space. I always travel with a skinny tie and skinny jeans (hipster essentials) because you never know when you’ll want to look good—even when abroad.  Travels of Adam

Find out exactly why these two piece sets are the perfect addition to any travel wardrobe!

Apple iPad Mini 4

Packing Tips for Families

One tip that’s probably been mentioned a lot, but I live by, is this: lots of layering options for the kids reduces the need to pack lots of warm clothes. By layering, it’s easy to modify their level of warmth. Having multiple short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts are more space-friendly than carrying extra jackets, for example. Little Aussie Travellers

Your kids, especially toddlers, will ALWAYS need less than you think they will, especially when it comes to toys. An iPad or tablet plus a very small bag of favorite toys can get you to your destination, while the actual place you are visiting is often entertainment enough. With so many new sights and sounds to explore, you’ll find your toddler ditching that bag of cars you packed in exchange for every stick, rock, and leaf along the way. Walking on Travels

We are a family of four. When we pack, we roll everything (except jeans and thick pants); it does give you more space. The Q Family Adventures

Flying with a baby ? Don’t stress! We have some awesome tips from a jetsetting mom.

Trunki Original Kids Ride-On Suitcase and Carry-On Luggage

Traveling as a family of four, we use vacuum-sealed, airtight, and waterproof space bags for each individual. They compress clothes by squeezing the air out, they protect fabric from spills, and they are an easy way to separate everyone’s belongings. They’re also great for bulky items like sweaters and ski gear for winter trips. The World is a Book

My best packing tips for families: make the kids pack and carry their own stuff. Whatever tempting cool clothing they want to buy along the way, they know they have to carry. This saves mom’s and dad’s backs. Also, dark fabric shows fewer stains, needs less washing, and shows less wear.  The Nomadic Family

One of my best pet travel packing tips is to always bring your dog’s blankets and pillows and a few toys that smell like home. It keeps them calm in the car and lets them have a piece of home when sleeping in a different hotel every night. It’s the best way to have well-behaved, well-traveled pets. The Constant Rambler

Read this packing list for toddlers and babies  to make traveling with a family a breeze!

Titanium Spork

Packing Tips for Everyone

Leave space in your backpack or suitcase. Use the extra room for souvenirs and purchases you make during travel. Awe Inclusive

When you’re taking a short trip,  pack your old underwear and throw it away after you wear it. I also take clothing I’m tired of and leave it behind, too. I pack underwear and jewelry in my shoes. Edgy June Travels

Pack a spork to make your street food experiences easier and more enjoyable. Travel Gear for Men

Don’t forget the duct tape. You’ll find a million and one uses for it. My Itchy Travel Feet

Here’s a twist on an old standby in terms of packing tips: 3M has come up with a new type of  Scotch Transparent Duct Tape . It comes in various strengths, but it is not yet available in convenient mini-rolls. Savvy Traveling

Take a look at these 25 random travel necessities and find out if they make sense for your next trip!

Waterproof Dry Bag

Besides the normal things like clothing and body products, I take a traveling natural health kit. One of the key ingredients is essential oils: they’re great for natural first-aid, to ward off germs and bacteria, and even for a bit of scent (smaller than any perfume bottle). I use lemon oil as my hand sanitizer wherever I go. It’s easier to carry and better smelling than most products on the market. Santa Fe Travelers

I always have a thread and needle.  It’s one of the more classic packing tips. Not only can you patch up your clothing, you can exchange your services for free beer. Going Nomadic

The best day bag for travel is a dry bag like this one that can protect and store your valuables! We Heart Scuba Diving

String and cable ties –it’s unbelievable how many times they’ve come in handy! Magnificent Potato

I always pack a hypoallergenic pillow case (one that zips) to cover gross pillows, which often contain dust mites. And, of course, I pack a sleep sheet (some call it a “sack”) to protect me from bed linens I’d rather not touch.  Chicky Bus

Buy a universal adaptor rather than one suited only for the country you’re visiting. It saves money in the long run and gives you more travel flexibility (especially during airport layovers). Inside the Travel Lab

I always carry earplugs and a headlamp. You never know when you will need them. Ordinary Traveler

Find out our top 10 travel essentials for backpackers !

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

I keep a “quick fix” kit in my cabinet and grab it for trips. It contains earplugs, a sleep mask, lip balm, ibuprofen, and extra contact lenses. I also bring flavored tea bags to relax with a cup of tea no matter where I am. As for clothing packing tips, I keep it simple with lots of black. It goes with everything and is difficult to stain!  Spanish Sabores

Buy a backpack that isn’t a top loader. Backpacks like the Berghaus Jalan and the Osprey Farpoint zip most of the way around and open like a suitcase, which makes getting to your stuff a lot easier! Gap Year Escape

Keep a list of all the items you need for a vacation  overseas or a weekend trip, as each type of trip requires different things to pack, especially electronics– chargers, lenses, memory cards, etc. A list means it’s less likely to be forgotten. Kiwi Travel Writer

The best item I’ve found is a  travel clothesline . If you’ll be hand-washing your clothes while traveling, it’s super convenient. SKJ Travel

Because we at Green Global Travel often venture to off-the-beaten-path destinations, it’s crucial that we pack light and carry clothes that can be washed and dried very easily. Green Global Travel

Have lip balm and your Speedo if you’re traveling in Europe. And always pack light is one of the golden packing tips! Dream Euro Trip

Want the ultimate guides for packing light? Read our Pack Light Stylishly book to get started and see our packing tips, and take our master class if you’re ready to Stop Overpacking !

A giant thank you to all the travel bloggers who shared their packing tips in this post!

If you have any travel packing tips to share, please add them in the comments below!

For more packing tips, please read:

• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• This Video Will Change the Way You Pack 
• Packing Lists for (Almost) Every Destination
• Think Traveling Carry-on is Impossible? Read this

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Hope you liked this post on travel packing tips from the expert. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

72 comments.

That’s quite an interesting article Alex, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Hi Gloria, thank you for your feedback, glad that you found the article helpful! Safe travels! 🙂

I found all the tips very useful, I use some of them. I would like to add a few I use. Packing bijoux jewelry, I pass necklaces through a straw to prevent tangling, put rings and earrings seperately in small ziplocks then all together in a small cosmetic pouch and into my suitcase. For expensive jewelery I put it in a small cufflink box which accomodates two diamond rings, a medium sized locket and a brooch. This protects them from being compressed. Then I carry it in my handbag in a small zippered compartment. Hope this may help somebody.

Hi, thank you so much for your comment! Thank you for sharing you great tips 🙂

That’s quite an interesting article Shari Melillo, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this packing trick could save some space on air travel

Tips to save space in your suitcase

Roll the clothes instead of folding them. You can save your space and carry some extra items such as belt and pair of extra socks in your baggage.

Wear as much as you can rather than packing it. This doesn’t sound cool but it is one of the best trick. Wear extra clothes inside your over coat and later remove them once you are on your sear after boarding the flight. A little extra layer of clothes on your body will give you a lot of free space in your bag. Now you have some extra space in your suitcase to put some more items.

You can also use your pockets to hold small things rather than putting them in your luggage. You can even fold small clothing items and place them in large pockets of a jacket or cargo pants.

I just read this and must say, I should have done so a few weeks earlier 🙁

One thing I found interesting lately is to use tools for my packing. whattopackforatrip.com is one example but there are a few more. Can you do something like this too 🙂

Thanks for one marvelous posting! I enjoyed reading it, you are a great Writer. Keep up the wonderful works on. I’ve added you to my blogroll as well.

Glad seeing this kind of tips, make sure to bring a handy soap, roadeavour scented soap sheets is a must have!

I also think packing with capsule wardobe principles is also very effective.

Glad you agree! All of our packing lists are based on a capsule wardrobe: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-lists/

Great tips! I agree that rolling your clothes make them take up less space.

Thanks Andy!

Like one of your correspondents above said – practice pack and pitch. Any old clothes that are serviceable but may have a spot or are heavily worn get packed and pitched along the way. You can always tie a scarf so it covers a spot and you’re never going to see these people again. Your pitch will equal your stuff purchased. And stuff left in Peru, mark it trash bastuda, doesn’t worm its way back into your closet. I also just purchased an Elizabeth and Clarke unstainable tshirt and can’t wait to see if they work well.

Great tips! Thanks Marilyn!

when staying in a hotel, just below the peephole in the door, there is usually a sign describing protocol for emergencies. next to this sign is (usually) a card inserted with room prices, check-out times, etc. pull this card halfway out and use it to cover the peephole for privacy. this gave me peace of mind when my young daughter and I traveled alone. an alternative would be to cover the peephole with a small piece of blue painter’s tape. I also locked and bolted the door and placed the (empty) plastic trash can a few inches from the door before we went to bed. this would give us valuable seconds if someone tried to enter our room while we were asleep!

Thank you for your post. space while helping your bras maintain their shape by stacking them on on top of each other. You can even store you underwear inside of the cups.

Great tip Kyla!! Thanks for sharing!

A portable speaker is a great item to take with you. You can listen to music anywhere and even charge your phone with them.

That’s a great tip!

I always (always!) use a packing list for every trip and just tweak it each time based on where, when & how long the trip is. It’s divided into four sections.

Section 1 is for things I might need to have at the ready like passports, reservation paperwork, phone charger, antibacterial wipes, etc. This is basically my travel bag list.

Section 2 is for toiletries and rarely changes.

Section 3 is for planning outfits. I break it down with the itinerary for each day and what the expected weather will be, and then pre-plan out each outfit for each day/event, including belts, shoes and accessories. Keeping to this strict plan helps me from over-packing!

The fourth and final section is for anything extra, like a hat, gloves, undies, bras, etc. Also included in this section are little extras like small hand fans for hot & humid climates, a small baggie for the hotel remote control (one of the germiest things in your room), etc.

Great suggestions Pollyana! Thank you so much for sharing your method! Sounds like you’ve got packing down! Happy travels!

Traveling is a fun activity but doing it repeatedly can eventually tire a traveler down. Because of this, many frequent travelers have realized the importance of preparing luggage that allows one to carry necessary travel items without compromising comfort. Much of the challenges come from identifying the trip, choosing and prioritizing the items that will be brought according to the trip, and finding the right packing technique to ensure that the luggage that will accompany the traveler will not cause any discomfort.

Thanks for your message Lecitia! Great tips! Comfort is definitely most important when selecting what to bring and what luggage to bring it in. Thanks for reading! Safe travels!

So many people recommend rolling clothes instead of folding, and I’ve even tried the “military” style you can learn on YouTube videos. However, I still find correct folding (eg, the KonMari method) makes my suitcase so much more calm and organized. And fewer wrinkles.

It’s great that you’ve found the way that works best for you! Keep packing smart 🙂

My Husband and I are leaving for 90 days travel and I am keeping it to one roller thanks to a lot of the tips here.

Wow thank you Piccola 🙂 Have a wonderful journey!

I like to carry a backpack on the plane for all my stuff. Instead of dealing with a purse AND a backpack, I just put my necessary purse contents (wallet, smartphone, meds, etc.) in the backpack and pack my purse in my suitcase.

Perfect strategy!

I always bring a few wooden clothespins. I need the room very dark to sleep and the clothespins sometimes are perfect to hold a drape together. Of course they can be used in the obvious ways hand clothes to dry off a hangar or towel rack.

good tip! I’ve met travelers with plastic ones but wooden plastic it’s all the same 🙂

I try to lay out everything I want to pack, including cosmetic bag, etc., then live with it, at home, for the amount of time I’m going to be gone. Anything that doesn’t get used doesn’t go in the suitcase, and it’s an easy way to see if everything fits together. Takes discipline to do this, but it’s a good reality check.

That is dedication but if you do it once, you can keep reusing the same things for future trips. Great tip!

Alex, can you give me few tips regarding packing fine jewelry on business trip

great timing! have an article publishing on July 9th with your answer – stay tuned!

Great tips from everyone this is really going to help me this summer other thing when you make a list make sure you check off the important things first like start off with carry on luggage essentials any way this is my favorite site to go to when I’m having trouble packing oh almost forgot make your luggage noticble by putting ribbons and shoelaces so that way you would not have to worry when you get to the airport

I am not so sure if I shared this compilation on my page before, but I’m glad to see my tips and advice on this post now 😛

When going on a vacation where swimming is involved, I pack a lightweight, cheap or well used towel. Then, if I want to swim after the noon checkout time, I give away the wet towel at the end of the day.

Another useful and small, lightweight item is a little sponge (the little pink, yellow or green ones). They are incredibly useful, take almost zero room, and save towels if the floor gets wet.

I’ve been looking everywhere for a blog like this… finally 🙂

Glad you found it!

Great list – I thought I’d add that I always travel with a black and a grey tank top. They are perfect for layering if you are cold, sleeping in OR for modesty.

I agree, great to have some basics. Thanks!

Awesome tips! I am leaving for London on Wednesday for two weeks with my school, and these tips will help me pack and lower my anxiety over it! (: Thanks so much for this blog post, I really appreciate it! (:

Thanks Kelly! Glad to help 🙂

You also might find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-london-on-your-trip-to-the-united-kingdom/

Loads of helpful stuff there – thanks. Glad to know that I am amongst fellow rollers and ziplockers!

Thanks Bernie! Rolling is the way to go 🙂

Thanks for including my duct tape tip. I’ll be linking to this list in our February newsletter.

Thanks Donna! Duct tape has endless uses – I especially like to use it to help prop up the massive universal adapters/converters into the outlet. Thanks again!

I am a first time visitor. I enjoyed your blog some great tips.

Thank you 🙂

What a great round-up post! Bookmarking this and will be using a few of these tips for the next trip. Thanks for including my tip 🙂

Thanks! Thanks for the tip 🙂

This is the best post on packing I’ve seen! (and not just cuz I got a nod, either) I especially love the last point made: “pack clothing you feel good wearing”

Thanks Laura! I hope I can get enough tips to make it to 100 🙂 high goals!

Thanks for including my tips! A bunch of great advice here from others.

Thanks Talon! What color is your sarong of choice? 🙂

Brilliant list! Thanks for including my tip!

Thanks Bethany and also for sharing your tip 🙂

I love these tips! I find an iphone invaluble for all of the language apps and google!

Thanks Stephanie. Hopefully you could use a few for your upcoming trip 🙂

Same here! Thanks and congrats for the article! 🙂

Thanks again! Great collaboration 🙂

Thanks for featuring my tip here, I love seeing what all the different range of travelers feel is important when packing! 🙂

Thanks for contributing Shannon! Great tips from everyone 🙂

Great tips! I have already bookmarked this for future reference. Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you! No matter how experienced you are, it’s still possible to pick up new tricks from others 🙂

I enjoyed reading your post full of great tips. Thanks for including mine. I’ve already tweeted your post.

Thanks Lisa! I’m happy with the turn out 🙂

So many great packing tips from knowledgeable travelers! Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you so much for contributing! 🙂

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The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Traveling internationally is an adventure best planned ahead of time, and not just when it comes to booking flights and packing. Sure, showing up at your gate sans passport or forgetting melatonin for your red-eye flight can put a damper on your long-awaited escape, but most of your preparation should be dedicated to ensuring health, safety, and financial necessities are covered. To save you some prep time, we’ve compiled this international travel checklist for your next long-distance journey.

Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from lost luggage to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? Check the State Department’s travel page for your destination.

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost. Share copies of your passport, itinerary, and contact numbers with family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Your Questions About Online Passport Renewal, Answered

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots , as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms , appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

8 English Words You Should Never Use Abroad

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com . Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you can do the same for someone else.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, an international SIM card can be a good alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes, the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps will allow you to follow your GPS without using up data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on a long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through most platforms.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger . Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials easily accessible in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs , eye mask , and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater / scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list .

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside if you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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19 Packing Tips Frequent Travelers Swear By

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Packing for a trip may not be your idea of a fun time. It’s often tedious and stressful—but it really doesn’t have to be that bad. With a handful of great packing tips, you’ll learn how to pack in a way that makes your travel experience better, not worse. And who better to turn to for those tips than frequent travelers who have had their fair share of packing fails and wins?

I personally learned the hard way that traveling with excessive luggage can really weigh you down (literally) whether you’re flying or traveling by train or bus. I used to travel while holding a full-time job, so I only took three- to four-day trips. When I first transitioned to traveling for longer periods, I brought a 75-pound bag on a month-long trip to Europe only to find myself deeply regretting the decision when I had to lug it up several flights of stairs in old buildings with no elevators. You can bet I never made that mistake again, and now I make sure I can easily carry anything I pack.

There’s also the fact that luggage is expensive if you’re flying. Airlines seem to be charging more and more for checked bags, and some fare options can get you a great price but don’t allow even a carry-on. Learning how to pack efficiently can save you some serious cash.

As the saying goes, when packing for a trip, it’s best to take half the luggage and double the money. Of course, that’s easier said than done—especially for anyone who wants to look fashionable on a long-awaited vacation.

To help you pack with ease, here are 19 clever packing tips that frequent flyers and travel experts (including yours truly) swear by. First things first, though: Whether you’re looking for air travel packing tips, packing tips for international travel or domestic travel, or just ideas to use for a quick weekend getaway , it’s essential to travel as safely as possible with COVID-19 in mind. Here’s more information about the safest way to travel right now , including being fully vaccinated, masking up when recommended (like in crowded indoor venues), reading up on travel restrictions , and more. Now, on to those packing tips!

1. Bundle your outfits.

“We find it’s easier to pack outfits together,” Martha Villaroman, family travel blogger of Go Places With Kids and mom of three, tells SELF. “For example, roll your shirt, pants, underwear, and socks together to form one bundle. Then in the morning, you can quickly grab the bundle of clothes that you need.” Bonus: Rolling your clothes prevents wrinkles and allows you to easily identify items that you’ve packed.

2. Use packing cubes.

Packing cubes ( $25, Amazon ) help compress and separate your clothing and are your best ally for efficient suitcase packing. Organize cube contents by day according to your itinerary or by types of clothing. This helps keep your suitcase neat and keeps you from having to unfold and displace everything to locate one outfit. If you’re traveling with vintage or weather-sensitive clothing, consider a vacuum-sealed compression bag to protect your clothes during transit.

3. Opt for as many wrinkle-proof fabrics as possible.

“Our favorite and easiest packing tip for travel is to bring nonwrinkle clothing that doesn’t arrive all creased,” Mar Pages, cofounder of Solo Female Travelers Tours , tells SELF. “Consider these fabrics the next time you are shopping or packing for a trip: polyester, denim, wool, knits, spandex, and lyocell. Avoid 100% linen or linen-cotton blends, which are more wrinkle-prone.” 

4. Buy solid toiletries.

“Liquids always take up the most space and tend to spill too,” Lavinia D’Sousa of Continent Hop tells SELF. They’re also a little annoying to pack if you’re only checking a bag and need everything to be TSA-compliant. D’Sousa’s solution? Opting for solid shampoo bars and soaps instead. You can buy solid perfume, makeup remover, bug balm, sunscreen, and even toothpaste tabs. If you are carrying liquids, try placing plastic wrap under the caps to minimize leaks.

5. Make your clothing multitask.

One of the most essential travel tips for packing light is to bring items that have multiple purposes. “The scarf or stole is the most versatile item you can carry,” D’Sousa says. “It can act as a sarong, a wrap for all your dirty clothes if needed, and you can wear it around your shoulders when covering up to visit a [religious location].” In general, bringing clothing items that you can wear for multiple occasions or mix and match with other items to create new outfits is a smart way to pack efficiently. The same concept applies to your hair tools and skin-care products—think: a 2-in-1 hair straightener and curler, a tint that can be used for blush and lipstick, and a soap that doubles as shaving cream.

6. Choose a clothing color scheme.

“As a full-time traveler with limited wardrobe space, I create a capsule wardrobe with items that effortlessly go together,” YouTuber Alina McLeod tells SELF. “That means choosing neutrals with one or two pops of color.” When everything coordinates, it’s easy to layer when you move between different places and changing weather. “This allows me to utilize all the items I bring instead of having four or five random outfits that don’t really mix,” McLeod adds.

7. Use the pillowcase hack.

Nina Ragusa of Where in the World Is Nina recommends a hack that has gained TikTok notoriety this year . Grab two pillowcases: one that zippers and one that doesn’t, she suggests. “Stuff clothes in the zippered pillowcase, then cover it with the regular pillowcase. Now you have more room in your bag for other items, you’ve got a pillow to sleep with on your flight, and you got to bring those 10 extra outfits you swear you’re actually going to wear.” This hack is great because most airlines don’t count a pillow as a carry-on, Ragusa explains.

8. Make a virtual packing list you can actually check off.

Of course you know a packing list might be helpful. But instead of one you simply look at and mentally cross off, make sure no essential travel item is left behind by preparing a packing list to actually cross off as you load your suitcase. Today, several apps make this easy, with premade themes and templates for activities like road trips or hiking. Popular apps include PackPoint , Packing Pro , and PackTeo .

9. Keep a toiletry go bag.

“Our packing tip is amazingly simple yet saves tons of time every time we pack,” Mikkel Woodruff of Sometimes Home tells SELF. “Each of us has a separate toiletries bag with travel-size products—including things like a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, eye drops, etc.—that’s always ready to pack in a travel backpack or our luggage.

“While we need to pack our clothes for each trip, we never need to spend time packing our toiletries,” Woodruff says. “The secret is to replace anything that needs replenishing as soon as you return from a trip.”

10. Wear your bulkiest clothing in transit.

Instead of packing your coat inside your bag and letting it eat up precious space and weight, wear it on the plane. You can usually make room for it in the overhead bin and use the pockets for heavy but valuable items like cameras or backup batteries. 

It’s a good idea to wear items you want to take along like sneakers or boots as well. Best-case scenario, they have those foldable slippers on your flight (a common amenity on long-haul international flights) so you can let your feet breathe a bit on-board. If you’re on a shorter flight sans free slippers, wear a pair of thick socks that will keep your feet comfy when you kick off your shoes. (But please, keep your shoeless feet to yourself—no stacking them on the back of the armrest for the passenger in front of you!)

11. Bring a foldable day pack.

Rachel Posey of Unparalleled Dimensions recommends bringing a collapsible day pack that folds up small so that it fits easily into your luggage. “Running around a new city is easy with a small, lightweight bag. These weigh almost nothing and take up zero space in your luggage,” Posey tells SELF. Notably, some museums and attractions don’t allow large backpacks, so it’s good to have something small and easily portable to carry just the essentials that you need for a day of exploring.

12. Make your jewelry tangle-free.

“Use press-and-seal wrap for your jewelry so it doesn’t get tangled,” suggests Abigail Schaffer of EF Ultimate Break . “In the alternative, use one of those seven-day pill containers to separate jewelry items so they don’t tangle together.” This is an affordable and lightweight solution.

13. Do laundry on your trip.

Another tried and true tip from Schaffer is to plan to do laundry on your trip. It’s kind of a must for trips longer than two weeks, as it’s hard to pack a separate outfit for each day beyond that. Depending on where you’re traveling and staying, it might be easy to visit a laundromat or get laundry done at a hotel, but if not, a good ol’ hand washing will do the trick. Schaffer recommends bringing a small amount of laundry detergent so you can do a quick load in the sink if need be. See if you can find a leaf or solid version, like these detergent sheets from Earth Breeze ( $15, Amazon ).

14. Keep your bag smelling fresh.

Want to keep your luggage smelling fresh throughout your trip? Ben Wallington, CEO of Designerwear and frequent international traveler, suggests adding a small cedar chip, a sprig of lavender, or even cinnamon sticks to keep your luggage smelling clean and fresh. Traveling to a humid destination? “If you add a small muslin bag of rice to your luggage when traveling to a humid destination, it will absorb the moisture and keep your clothes fresh,” he says.

15. Use socks to cushion your hats and heels.

“To protect a structured hat from getting ruined en route, pack it in your carry-on suitcase and stuff scarves, socks, and other soft clothing items both in and around it to reinforce its shape. Works like a charm!” Rachel Jean-Frichau of Rachel Off Duty tells SELF. Do the same with heels and collared shirts to keep them from losing their shape or getting crushed in your luggage.

16. Wrap your shoes in shower caps.

You know those disposable shower caps that are often in hotel bathrooms? They’re of course meant for protecting your hair from water, but they have a secret dual purpose: sparing your clothing from dirt or mud on the bottom of your shoes. Simply wrap each shoe in a shower cap before putting it back in your bag or suitcase to keep everything else clean.

17. Pack a spare outfit in your carry-on.

On the off chance your checked bag gets delayed or lost, you’re going to want clean clothes to change into when you get to your hotel. Always keep fresh underwear, one day’s outfit, and sleepwear in your carry-on bag, just in case. On that note, make room for any other essentials—like medicine, valuable technology, or anything that’s irreplaceable—in your carry-on. It’s good to have peace of mind just in case.

18. Keep track of your stuff with photos.

Jason Metz, writer and travel insurance expert at Forbes Advisor , recommends taking photos of what you pack before you go. “This can save time if your baggage is lost and you need to file a travel insurance claim. If you want to get high-tech and track your belongings, consider a device like an Apple AirTag or Samsung SmartTag,” Metz tells SELF. Additionally, make note of where you put the things you’ll need to get home, like your keys or parking ticket, so you can easily find them when you return.

19. Maximize the packing potential of your personal item.

You’re allowed a carry-on bag and a personal item on most economy flights, and many airlines now offer a pared-back basic economy fare that only lets you bring a small personal item. Make that personal item a roomy backpack or duffel bag to maximize your space. Pack all your flight essentials in that bag, from travel headphones to compression socks to sleep masks and even sanitizing wipes so you can wipe down your seat, tray table, and window if need be.

• 22 Things Frequent Travelers Say You Need for Road Trips
• 19 Excellent Weekender Bags for Last-Minute Getaway Trips
• An Introvert’s Survival Guide to Traveling With a Group of People

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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60 Packing Tips For Travel From Expert Packers

Get ready for your next trip with our complete list of minimalist packing tips.

Maybe you got stuck paying for an overweight bag on your last trip or had trouble finding what you needed because it was buried in the bottom of your huge suitcase. Whatever the reason, you want to start your journey toward becoming a minimalist packer. But where to begin?

Well, you're in the right place! Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve been giving our community packing tips for years to help them on the road to smarter travel. There’s plenty to consider, from knowing how much clothing you need to pack for a week’s vacation to how to adapt your packing list for warm or cold weather travel. Plus, of course, there’s the gear you use to pack it all up. From a carry on backpack to packing tips for toiletries and tech, we can help.

Since this is Pack Hacker, our first set of packing tips, of course, focuses on finding the right bag for you, and we also have tons of packing tips for clothing since it will take up most of your bag.

So here is our most comprehensive roundup of all the great travel packing tips we’ve given over the years, all in one place. Whether you’re looking for help packing a carry on, packing tips for international travel, or even suitcase packing tips, we can help you. So sit down, relax, and get packing!

Packing Tips To Find The Right Bag

• Travel with a backpack: When choosing the right carry on bag for you, we prefer to travel with a backpack instead of rolling luggage when possible. No matter where you’re traveling, you won’t have to worry about wheels getting jammed with snow, dirt, mud, and salt or worry about them getting stuck in cobblestone streets. Also, when you travel with a carry on bag, you won’t have to wait at the carousel for your luggage, so you can get right to your trip (or, if you get in late, hotel).
• Consider size and weight: When looking for a carry on bag, try to find one that weighs less than four pounds, so you can pack more gear without going over the airline weight limit. There are plenty of travel backpacks out there that are packed with organizational features. Check the carry on limits of your preferred airline before you buy one, though, to ensure it will fit their restrictions. After all, no one wants to check their bag at the gate if they can help it.
• Choose your gear first: Decide what gear you’ll need before choosing your bag. Do you need specialized compartments to hold your camera kit ? Or are you a digital nomad who will pack a lot of tech gear? Some of the best tips for packing we have to share are to choose low-profile versions of the items you’re not sure you’ll need, like a packable rain jacket or hat, so you can travel with a smaller bag.
• It’s hip to be square: If you’re looking for packing tips for international travel, or airline travel in general, choosing square-shaped bags with good structure are easier to pack with more gear while still holding their shape. That’s because you can use packing cubes to hold your clothing, and they’re easier to fit into a backpack with corners than a more rounded shape. These are also great suitcase packing tips, because cubes help you stay organized no matter what type of carry on bag you prefer.
• Check the features: The ideas we share for cruise packing tips will differ from our packing tips for international travel because they'll depend on the weather at your destination. Nevertheless, one thing holds true no matter where you’re heading: know the climate of the place you’re shopping for. You may need additional weatherproofing features if you plan to hike a glacier during your Alaskan cruise or prioritize locking mechanisms if traveling to more sketchy locales in Southeast Asia.
• Consider the access points: Don’t forget about quick-access pockets when you’re looking for the right travel backpack. After spending time packing your bag just right, you don’t want to dislodge it to pull out your passport or liquid toiletries for inspection. However, if you’re planning to bring a hat or travel water bottle and your pack lacks special pockets, our travel packing tips include using a carabiner to hook them onto a bag strap. We also like using compression straps to hang onto larger gear like yoga mats and tripods.
• Watch your back: lf you’ll be carrying your bag for a while, whether through the airport to catch your connecting flight or several blocks to get to your hotel or Airbnb, ensure your backpack has extra ventilation. It’s no fun arriving at your destination with a sweaty back or overheating on the walk to the bus. More packing tips for travel include checking out duffle bags to keep your back open if you know you’re heading to a hot and humid locale or even using rolling luggage if you don’t need to worry about ground conditions slowing you down.
• Invest in your gear: No matter what your travel needs, our packing tips for travel always include investing in the best gear so it lasts for trips to come. You don’t want to find yourself on the other side of the globe when the zipper rips off your cheap backpack or the handle snaps off your suitcase, so it pays to pay a little more at the start to avoid mishaps. Our suitcase packing tips and carry on packing tips always include inspecting your gear before you go. You may have tossed your trusty bag in a corner one too many times or discover that it degraded from being stored in the sweltering attic since you last traveled.
• Bring a packable bag: Your travel backpack may be the right pick for getting you from home to vacation, but you never know when you’ll need a daypack or sling while exploring. Instead, grab a packable bag to load up for daily adventures or shopping trips to the local market.

Packing Tips To Lighten The Load

• Lightweight is easier for travel: When you’re packing for one bag travel, it’s easier to pull a carry on out of the overhead bin than wait for the plane to unload. Plus, if you’re carrying a backpack, it can get heavy to lug around while you wait for your check-in time. Most airlines limit a carry on to about 22 pounds (10 kilograms), though, compared with the 50 you can usually get in a checked bag, so it’s important to review the rules of the airline you’re flying before leaving home. If they don’t count a personal item bag toward your limit, you can use it for heavier items, like a laptop.
• Bring the essentials: Deciding what’s most important to you is one of our best packing tips for travel. While bringing a travel neck pillow on board could be nice, you may want to leave it behind and save extra space for more clothing or tech gear. If you can travel with a smaller version of what you need, like bringing a tablet or a smartphone instead of a laptop, you’ll save space and weight in your bag.
• Sweat the small stuff to save ounces: Every ounce counts, so optimizing your gear and going for packable versions to lighten the load are great tips for packing. Think compressible travel water bottles and packable rain jackets instead of full-size gear, and opt for a minimalist wallet instead of a bulky bifold. Our carry on packing tips always include going through your wallet and leaving cards you don’t need while traveling behind.
• Bigger isn’t better: Another item to add to our list of packing tips for travel is to reduce the size of your gear, whether it’s by bringing just the head to your razor or toothbrush so you can pack a smaller toiletry bag, or bringing lighter-weight travel tech gadgets . While you may sacrifice a little if you bring a smaller battery bank with a lower capacity, it’ll be worth it to save weight and avoid surprise fees at the airport.

Tips To Pack Strategically

• Save space in your carry on: When’s the last time you returned from a trip without some sort of souvenir? When packing, leave space in your carry on bag for the fun things you might want to bring home, whether it’s a T-shirt, a tchotchke, or a new snack. Or be sure to bring a packable bag so you can carry them on the plane as a personal item bag on your return trip.
• Share space with a friend: If you’re traveling with family or a friend, you may be able to share space in each other’s bags to carry less. For instance, you may be able to pack all your gear for the plane in one personal item bag and use your companion's bag for snacks.
• Get creative with your gear: Pack gear that works double duty, protecting your glasses from scratches in socks, for example, or using a hoodie as a neck pillow. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can leave a lot of toiletries behind since there’s likely to be soap and shampoo in the shower. As for tech, don’t bring chargers for each item. Instead, bring one universal charger to power up all your gear.
• Lay it all out: When you’re packing, lay everything out and then divide it into piles of what will be used daily, less frequently, and rarely. Then consider the gear you use rarely or less frequently and see if there’s anything you can ditch to save weight in your pack. Lying everything out also gives you a better idea of how to pack your bag properly since you can first organize it by category and type.
• Practice your trip: One of the best packing tips is to do it early. Pack for your trip in advance, and then try living out of your bag for a while. Carry it around the block for a trial run to figure out how it will feel as you walk from security to your boarding gate. That way, if it doesn’t feel good, you can figure out what’s poking you in the back before you’re on the streets of New York City or Singapore.

Carry On Packing Tips

• Be strategic with placement: Where you pack your gear in your bag is just as important as what you pack. Keep heavy items in the center of your backpack that will ideally hit you between your hips and shoulder blades and as close to your back as possible for maximum comfort and weight distribution. Then make use of exterior pockets to keep travel essentials like a wallet, your passport, and an extra layer within easy reach.
• Add organization: If you don’t want all of your clothing to be in a messy heap when you reach your destination, use packing cubes and pouches to organize your gear. Not only can you keep your clothing sorted into different categories to be easy to find later, but you can make sure your rolls stay rolled instead of shifting and sliding around during your flight. If you're making multiple stops on your trip, pack everything in the same spot as you move around so you always know where to find it.
• Carry on wisely: Check the personal item limits of your specific airline because you may be able to use that to pack instead of paying for a carry on bag. If you get to the airport and find your carry on bag or checked luggage is over the limit, you can shift some items into your personal item bag to reduce the weight. And wear bulkier clothing on the plane since that will save space and weight, too.
• Organize and modularize your gear: If you switch between bags for different destinations, consider packing your gear in pouches. Then you can easily swap your tech accessories, from your travel backpack to your daypack .
• Stay secure: More packing trips for travel focus on security. Whether heading off the beaten path or to a busy metro area, you may want to invest in an anti-theft bag to keep pickpockets away from your gear. If you don’t, take extra precautions like packing your valuables innermost in your bag, and be sure to carry on sensitive gear (like medication) so it doesn’t end up on the wrong plane by accident.

Packing Tips For Clothing

• Know when to fold ‘em, when to roll ‘em, and when to bundle up: The clothing you pack will dictate how you pack it. Rolling will make your clothing more compact but can cause more wrinkles, so we don't recommend it for delicate fabrics like silk or linen. The Marie Kondo KonMari method of folding—where your items are folded lengthwise in thirds, then halved top to bottom, and in thirds that direction again—is faster and produces fewer wrinkles. Still, it works best in clamshell bags, cubes, or a traditional suitcase. For delicate fabrics, roll an entire outfit together. It causes fewer wrinkles, and then you won’t have to search for that one missing piece of your ensemble.
• Aim for versatility: Pack a capsule wardrobe by bringing pieces that can mix and match with each other so you can bring less. If you’re unsure of the weather or heading to cooler temperatures, more packing tips for travel include bringing items that can layer together for warmth. Also, pack gear that can serve double duty, like shorts you can swim in or a one-piece bathing suit that looks like a tank top when paired with bottoms.
• Mind your materials: When choosing items for a capsule wardrobe, one of our best packing tips is to opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or Merino wool , which naturally regulates your body temperature so you can get more uses out of one piece between washings.
• Prepare for Mother Nature: Even if you check the forecast in advance, it may not be right! So be sure to bring a packable rain jacket in case of sudden downpours, a packable travel jacket in case of cooler weather, and a travel towel in case it’s warm enough to hit the beach.
• Consider compression: If you’re looking for packing tips to fit bulky sweaters, jackets, and scarves in your carry on bag, we have one word for you: compression. While compression cubes and pouches are overkill if you’re only packing T-shirts and shorts, they work well for gear that takes up a lot of space, especially if you have to pack extra layers for colder weather.
• Space out: For the ultimate in compression, use a vacuum to suck the air out of space bags. Just realize that it will take more effort and leave your clothing more wrinkled—plus, you’ll have to find a vacuum at your destination to repack for the journey home.
• Dressy clothing is delicate: When you’re looking for packing tips for a dressy destination, we recommend using a garment folder to keep your clothing as neat as possible. They take up more room in your carry on bag, but some companies make ones that fit in larger travel backpacks. Or if it’s just a weekend trip for a wedding, use a garment bag as your carry on bag. You can usually fit shoes and a toiletry bag at the bottom; some even have extra pockets for organizing other small gear.
• If the shoe fits: Wearing bulkier shoes or boots on the plane is one of our best packing tips for travel, but if you do have to find room in your pack for travel shoes , you can use the inside to hold socks, chargers, souvenirs, and other small gear to make use of the otherwise-wasted space. And don’t forget a shoe bag, or even a plastic grocery bag, to keep the residue on the bottom of your shoes from dirtying the rest of your clothing and travel gear.
• Keep your gear dry: Bring a pack liner or a dry bag in your carry on bag so that you can stick any damp or smelly clothing inside for the return trip.

Packing Tips for a Road Trip

• Plan before hitting the pavement: Download entertainment and maps to prepare for the chance of losing a signal on the drive. We also recommend packing your car the night before. You’re more likely to forget something if you’re rushing at the last minute. Our other packing tips for travel on the road include aiming to leave before the sun sets. Seeing where you’re going will help you get off to a good start.
• Pack a car bag: Since you’ll want to pack your travel backpack or duffle bag in the trunk to save room for your passengers, fill a daypack or travel tote bag with the gear you’ll need on the road, like your ID, snacks, gum, and entertainment.
• Keep your dashboard tidy: Finding a place for everything will help you feel calm when you reach your destination, so use the center console for things like spare change, receipts, and snacks that don’t fit in your road bag. Making sure your travel mug fits in the cup holder and grabbing a small bag for trash before you leave home are more great road trip packing tips .
• Pack your vehicle strategically: Keep the items you’ll need on the road, like a travel neck pillow, extra layer, and your road bag, in the backseat so they’ll be within easy reach. Pack everything else in the trunk to prioritize legroom.
• Dress for the drive: A road trip is not the time to be on trend with your fashion (unless you’re going the athleisure route). Instead, opt for stretchy, comfortable clothing that won’t dig in when you’re seated for hours at a time. Plus, flexible fabrics are less likely to wrinkle in the car. And don’t forget to pack sunglasses . You may start when the light is dim, but you’ll be happy you have them after a few hours.
• Take care of your passengers: Packing tips for a road trip include packing for your passengers, as well! Ensure they’ll be comfortable with extra layers, snacks, and a travel neck pillow. Or use a packable jacket or packing cube to save space.
• Get your car cuisine on point: Packing healthy foods will sustain you for miles instead of junk food, which will make you feel sluggish and hungry faster. We like using soft-sided small coolers because they take up less room, and you can use one to pack snacks or a lunch, plus your drinks.

Minimalist Packing Tips For Summer Travel

• Stay hydrated: Nothing will ruin a trip faster than a headache brought on by dehydration. Stay ahead of the game when you travel with a collapsible water bottle since you can fill it when you need a drink, and it will take up less space when you don’t. If insulation is important to you, make space for a bottle that will keep your drink cold for hours, like a YETI or a Hydro Flask. Most travel backpacks have a water bottle pocket, so fill it up! If you plan to hike, outdoor packing tips for travel include looking for a daypack that can hold a water bladder.
• Don’t get burned: If you’re looking for cruise packing tips, listen up. You’ll probably be spending a lot of your trip in the sun, whether lying by the pool, on the beach, or exploring the destinations you stop at. Packing sunscreen will save you from paying inflated prices on the ship or at tourist destinations, and you can also save your skin by packing a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves. Look for a crushable hat and minimalist sunglasses so they won’t take up extra room in your bag.
• Find fantastic footwear: While some people can wander all day in flip-flops with nary a blister, we think vacation packing tips should include finding supportive sandals that will get you through a day’s adventures. And if you’re planning to be more active, wear moisture-wicking socks with your shoes to stave off sweaty feet. Breaking in the shoes or sandals you plan to wear before you leave home is a must, too, so you can relax comfortably on your trip.
• Stay fresh and clean: If you’re traveling somewhere that’s much warmer than you’re used to, be sure to pack some cleansing wipes and a packable towel in your travel daypack. Then you can wipe down to feel fresh and clean as you explore without feeling like you’ve melted by the end of the day.
• Expect the unexpected: If you’ve packed well in advance of your trip, checking the weather right before you leave may allow you to leave some gear behind. Of course, if you’re heading somewhere the forecast is unpredictable (hello, Florida), pack an extra layer or rain jacket just in case of a cold snap or an afternoon downpour. You can always use it as a travel pillow on the plane!

Budget Packing Tips

• Find freebies: Looking for budget packing tips? One of the best is to bring home free toiletries from the hotel and refill the bottles on your next trip. They’re likely the right size for your 3-1-1 bag, and you won’t have to purchase specific containers.
• Reuse household containers: Look around your house before buying travel bottles . Tic Tac canisters, pill bottles, and bead organizers can all be put to good use organizing your tiny tech, toiletries, and jewelry when you’re on the road. You can also use a hard glasses case as a DIY tech kit for small accessories and secure cords with hair ties or a rubber band.
• Mind your money: You don’t have to spend big bucks on a minimalist wallet. A binder clip works quite well to hold your cash and cards together, although it may feel slightly bulky in your pocket. Of course, you can also hold them together with a hair tie or rubber band, as well.
• Avoid laundry fees: If you are traveling for a while, we have some long-term packing tips for you. Don’t pay to send your clothing to the cleaners. Instead, hand wash your gear in the hotel sink with laundry sheets, a detergent you bring from home, or the hotel soap. Stick a dryer sheet in your travel backpack to keep your gear smelling fresh.
• Loc it up: If you haven’t invested in packing cubes, keep organized with a Ziploc bag! They work great as budget packing cubes, and you can even label them to make it easy to find your favorite tee when you get to your Airbnb. A pillowcase or a laundry bag can also work well.
• Make it personal: Here’s a suitcase packing tip for you. If you have to check a bag, personalize it with a ribbon, duct tape, a pin, or a patch to tell it apart from the rest on the carousel.

Tips For Packing Tech

• Carry space-efficient gear: Look for space-saving versions of tech accessories you can’t live without, such as a smaller wall charger, a silicone keyboard that rolls up, and a universal cord.
• Your phone can do everything: Most smartphones can do just about everything, from helping with navigation to keeping you entertained and recording your memories. So leave the camera, GPS, music, and game systems behind. You can even eliminate a minimalist wallet if you get a case with a pocket for cash and cards.
• Clean up your cables: Wrap up your cables and cords with cable ties, VELCRO, or gear ties. It will ensure nothing gets tangled in your tech pouch and let you see everything else inside at the same time.
• Downsize your pouches: More tips for packing tech include downsizing the case you carry it in. Whether it’s for tech, toiletries, or other gear, it will force you to be creative and pack less. Then you’ll save space and weight in your bag.
• Find a brand you love: If you like one or two pieces of gear by one company (it’s no secret that’s Apple for us!), you’ll likely enjoy most of their products, and when you go all in on one ecosystem, you’re more likely to be able to leave extra adapters and chargers behind, since they may all use the same equipment to power up.
• Bring backups: This goes double if you’re looking for packing tips for international travel, but if there’s a piece of gear you can’t live without, bring a backup. If you must have a certain cord, camera, or charger to work remotely, don’t take a chance of not being able to find it when you’re living the digital nomad life on the other side of the world.

Packing Tips For Travel To Cold Destinations

• Layer up: Packing layers for your capsule wardrobe is even more essential for cold weather. Our tips for packing cold-weather clothing include bringing a moisture-wicking base layer, a thermal shirt, and a mid-layer sweater or hoodie to keep you warm under an outer layer, like a packable puffer jacket. Top it off with a rain jacket, and you can take on almost anything. Plus, all those pieces work well solo when the temperature climbs.
• Invest in a rain jacket: They’re not just for spring showers. A good rain jacket will help buffet the wind, sleet, and snow, too, and since they’re usually pretty packable, it’s worth making room for them in your carry on bag.
• Don’t forget the accessories: You’ll be cold if you forget to cover your extremities, so be sure to bring a pair of gloves, a hat, and maybe even a scarf with you when traveling to colder climes. Our packing tips for travel include bringing a buff for its versatility. It can act as a scarf, a hat, a face mask, and an eye mask in a pinch, and it takes up so little space it’s worth bringing along wherever you go.
• Stay dry: You’ll be colder if moisture seeps in than you would in the same temperature when you’re dry. So invest in weatherproof pieces to keep precipitation at bay and moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry if they start to sweat in your warm boots.

Now for a bonus packing tip—get creative! If you follow all of these tips, you’ll have room for some of the extras you prefer to bring along. Being a minimalist packer doesn’t look the same for everyone, so customize our list to you and happy travels! And if you want to learn more, be sure to check out our YouTube channel for all of our minimalist packing tip videos.

June 6, 2023

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

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Seasoned travelers know that packing for a trip is much more scientific than throwing clothes in a suitcase. It helps to have some wisdom (always roll, never fold) and organizational tools (cubes, jewelry holders) in your arsenal. We've sourced some of the best packing tips from the jet set, whether your aim is to avoid additional baggage fees or get your Thanksgiving dinner through security. And because even the best packers are only as good as their luggage, we bring you the latest in bag innovation: suitcases, backpacks, laptop bags, carry-ons, and you-name-it.

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20 First-Time Flying Tips: How to Prepare for Your First Flight

By knowing what to expect and preparing yourself, you can pack right, navigate the airport, and enjoy the exciting experience of flying for the first time.

There’s a lot to keep track of while flying. You need to make sure you have the right documents, keep your luggage within the size and weight limits, and figure out how to stay comfortable on the plane.

If you’re a first-time flier, navigating the airport, going through security, and getting on the plane might feel intimidating. Fortunately, with a little bit of preparation, your first flight can be straightforward, stress-free, and even exciting.

I’ve flown all around the world, from short hops for business trips to long-haul flights to the other side of the globe. In fifteen years of travel, I’ve taken hundreds of flights with airlines ranging from Delta to Singapore Air. I’ve traveled light with just a personal item and heavy with multiple checked bags . Over the years, I’ve learned many essential dos and don’ts, as well as a few lesser-known travel tips to make flying more comfortable and enjoyable.

I’ll walk you through the entire process, from buying your tickets to settling into your seat. When you’re done reading, you’ll feel ready to tackle your first flight with confidence.

Before You Fly

Before you embark on your first journey by air, a bit of preparation will help ensure that your flight experience is smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable. From packing smart to getting familiar with your flight details, a little planning goes a long way.

Research the Airline and Flight Details

A good flight experience starts with research to find the right flight at the right price. Tap into flight booking websites and search engines like Skyscanner or Google Flights , which can simplify your search for the best fare deals.

Keep a keen eye on, not just the price, but also the layovers, flight duration, and departure times. Direct flights are faster and more convenient, but they also often cost more. By doing your research ahead of time, you can find the best flights without blowing your budget. Typically, the best time to book a flight is 1-3 months in advance.

Double Check Luggage Size and Weight Limits

Save yourself from any last-minute airport hassles by taking a moment to check your airline’s rules on luggage size and weight limits beforehand. It’s important to remember that carry-on bags and personal items have specific restrictions, and going over those limits can result in expensive fees.

Keep in mind that weight and size restrictions can vary between airlines, especially budget carriers, which tend to have stricter guidelines. It’s always a good idea to double-check the limits and measure your luggage to make sure it fits.

Make Sure You Have the Right Documents

Travel documents are your ticket to smooth sailing—or flying, in this case. For international flights, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. For domestic flights, you need a valid driver’s license or other ID.

Equally important is travel insurance; be sure to print out the details, such as the policy documents and emergency contact numbers. Keep these and other identification documents handy—you never know when you’ll need to present them.

Notify Your Bank of Your Travel Plans

Don’t let the inconvenience of a frozen bank account ruin your trip! Remember to inform your bank about your travel plans in advance. Thankfully, most banks make it super easy to let them know through their user-friendly app or website, especially if you pick a specific bank account for travelers .

By doing so, you can avoid any potential fraud alerts that might lock your credit cards when they detect foreign transactions. So, take a few minutes to notify your bank and enjoy your trip worry-free!

Dress Comfortably

The key to a comfy flight is the right travel clothing . Choose garments that are loose-fitting and breathable, and easy-to-remove travel shoes will make going through security easier.

Remember, comfort above all ensures a more pleasant flight. This isn’t the time to wear your eight-inch heels or stiff dress pants.

Pack Essential Items in Your Personal Item

A personal item on a flight is a small bag, such as a handbag, laptop case, or small backpack, that you can store under the seat in front of you during your flight.

Use it to stash away travel essentials: your wallet, travel documents, earphones, a water bottle, some snacks for the trip, and a book or tablet for entertainment. Getting all your stuff organized ahead of time ensures you’ve got everything you need right at your fingertips when you need it.

At the Airport

Airports can be busy and overwhelming. There’s a lot to think about: checking your bags, getting through security, and not getting lost in the maze of terminals. By knowing what to expect, you can cut down on anxiety and navigate the airport with confidence.

Check In Online

To make your flying experience even smoother, it’s a great idea to take advantage of online check-in. Most airlines make online check-in available 24 hours before your flight, which allows you to skip the long lines at the airport counters.

Downloading your airline’s mobile app is usually the easiest way to check in online.

Not only will it save you precious time, but it also gives you the chance to select a better seat. Plus, you’ll receive a digital boarding pass right on your smartphone, which includes all the important flight details like the gate and seat numbers. How convenient is that?

Arrive at the Airport with Plenty of Time

Arriving at the airport early is always a good idea, especially for first-time flyers. Airlines generally advise getting to the airport at least three hours ahead for international flights, and two hours for domestic travels. This timeframe is especially important if you’re heading to the airport during busy holidays, have lots of bags to check, or are traveling with kids.

An unhurried pace means less stress and allows time for any unexpected delays. Remember, boarding usually begins 45 minutes before takeoff, and gates typically close 10-15 minutes prior to departure—another reason why those extra hours can make all the difference.

Empty Water Bottles Before Going Through Security

Staying hydrated is important, but don’t forget that airport security mandates empty water bottles. Rather than chugging your drink hurriedly in the security line, it’s best to finish or empty your bottle beforehand. It would be a shame to have the TSA confiscate your favorite water bottle just because it isn’t totally empty!

Just make sure to empty your water bottle before going through security, and you can easily refill it once you’re in the airside area where there are plenty of water fountains available.

Find Your Gate Early

Once you’re through security, head straight to your gate. Some airports can be a bit confusing to navigate, so it’s a good idea to find your gate as soon as possible. This way, you can avoid any unnecessary stress and be ready for boarding when the time comes.

Once you know where you need to be, you can take your time to enjoy a meal, do some shopping, or simply unwind before your flight.

Use the Bathroom Before Boarding

Before you board, make a quick pit stop at the restroom. Airplanes typically only allow passengers to use the facilities once the aircraft has reached cruising altitude — which could be a while after takeoff.

Make sure you hit the bathroom before boarding so you can have a more comfortable start to your time in the air.

During the Flight

Embarking on a flight, especially for the first time, involves more than just buckling your seatbelt and awaiting arrival. To ensure a pleasant and comfortable journey, consider the following practices during your time in the sky.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is super important during your flight! The high altitude and dry air in the cabin can really dry you out, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to keep your body happy and hydrated.

Don’t forget to refill your water bottle after going through security! It’s a great way to stay hydrated during your journey without spending extra money. Drinking water regularly can help you feel relaxed and comfortable, and even improve your sleep quality on the plane.

Start to Adjust to Your New Time Zone

Long flights often mean crossing through different time zones, and adjusting your internal clock while in the air can reduce the effects of jet lag. Simple actions like setting your watch or phone to the time zone of your destination can mentally prepare you for the change. You can also use an app like Timeshifter to help adjust and avoid jet lag.

Get a head start on adjusting to the new time zone by mimicking the nighttime of your destination. If it’s night there, take advantage of eyeshades and earplugs to get some sleep on the plane. This proactive tactic helps your body ease into the new schedule, giving you a better chance of feeling refreshed when you land.

Bring Your Own Entertainment

Sometimes, mid-range flights don’t offer in-flight entertainment systems, and even when they do, it may not be to your liking. To be prepared, make sure you have your devices loaded up with downloaded movies, TV shows, podcasts, books, or music that you enjoy. That way, you’ll have something to keep you entertained during the flight.

Remember to charge your devices fully before your departure and pack headphones—preferably noise-canceling ones for an immersive experience.

Bring Your Own Snacks

Air travel doesn’t have to disrupt your meal pattern if you plan ahead. Airport eateries often come with a hefty price tag and limited variety, so packing your own snacks is a smart and healthier alternative.

The TSA suggests including solid food items like protein bars, dried fruits, and nuts in your carry-on. These snacks require no refrigeration, are easy to pack, and provide a nutritious boost whenever hunger strikes thousands of feet in the air.

Take Stretch Breaks on Long Flights

Being confined to an airplane seat for extended periods can leave anyone feeling cramped and restless. On long-haul flights, it’s crucial to get up from your seat to stretch and walk around occasionally. This will not only improve circulation but also stave-off discomfort and stiffness.

Simple in-seat stretches for your legs, arms, and back can contribute significantly to your inflight comfort and well-being. Most airlines encourage periodic movement, so don’t hesitate to take those stretch breaks in the aisle and stay nimble during your long-distance travels.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can transform your first airborne voyage into a smooth and enjoyable part of your exciting travel adventure.

Dealing with Flight Delays and Changes

When embarking on a journey, especially by air, encountering the unforeseen is almost a rite of passage. Delays, flight changes, and cancellations can be frustrating obstacles, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate these issues with minimal stress. Here’s how to manage potential air travel disruptions:

Consider Purchasing Travel Insurance

Travel can be unpredictable, and that’s where travel insurance comes into play. Investing in a comprehensive insurance policy for your trip provides a safeguard against a range of possible hiccups. Whether you’re facing a flight delay, cancellation, or even an emergency medical situation, travel insurance has got you covered.

The best travel insurance companies offer a wide range of plans to fit your traveling style and your budget. It doesn’t have to be expensive!

Stay Updated with the Flight Status and Any Changes

As a first-time flier, it’s important to stay in the loop about your flight’s status. Luckily, airlines make it easy for you by providing updates on delays, cancellations, and gate changes. You can stay informed both at the airport and through their handy mobile apps.

Keep an eye on the departure screens, listen for announcements, and regularly check your phone for updates. This proactive approach allows you to stay one step ahead, ready to adjust your plans promptly if any changes occur. It also minimizes the risk of missed connections or surprise last-minute gate changes that can add unnecessary stress to your travel experience.

Understand Your Rights in Case of Flight Delays

Flight delays can be more than just a time-waster; they can disrupt your entire itinerary. Knowing your rights is key when faced with these situations. Should you miss your flight due to a delay for which the airline is responsible, they’re often obligated to rebook you at no additional cost.

This can also include meal and hotel vouchers if you’re facing an overnight delay. Every airline has its own policies, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before your trip.

Stay Calm and Patient

Dealing with flight disruptions can definitely be frustrating, even for experienced travelers. But it’s important to remember to stay calm and composed throughout the process.

Even if something goes wrong with your flight, getting stressed out or losing your temper isn’t going to help anything. You know what they say: keep calm and carry on.

First Time Flying FAQs

What do you do when flying for the first time.

When you’re flying for the first time, make sure to arrive early, have documents ready, dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and relax to enjoy the flight.

How does it feel to fly on an airplane for the first time?

Flying for the first time feels thrilling; the takeoff gives a rush, slight ear pressure, and a weightless sensation.

How do I stop being scared of flying for the first time?

Focus on deep breathing, bring distractions like a book or music, and remind yourself that flying is very safe.

Can I use my phone on a plane?

Yes, you can use your phone in airplane mode during the flight and connect to in-flight Wi-Fi if available.

What to do when you first get to the airport?

When you first get to the airport, check in for your flight, drop off any checked baggage, and go through security.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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• Dog Training Blog

Dog Travel Tips: How To Prepare for Long-Distance Adventures

Sep 25th 2024

Traveling with your dog can be one of the most enjoyable ways to bond, but long-distance travel presents its own challenges. Whether you're planning a road trip to a dog competition or taking your pup on a flight, it's essential to prepare to ensure their comfort, safety, and well-being.

Do you feel like you need some dog travel help? We'll cover some key dog travel tips, from pre-trip planning to keeping your dog comfortable during the journey.

Pre-Trip Preparations for Stress-Free Travel

Planning saves you a lot of headaches down the road, so here are some of the best dog travel tips to give you an advantage before heading out the door.

Visit the Vet Before Traveling

Before hitting the road or booking that flight, ensure your dog is in good health. A pre-trip vet visit allows you to:

• Update vaccinations
• Check on your dog’s overall health
• Obtain any necessary travel documents (such as proof of rabies vaccination).

This is especially important for international trips, as many countries have strict pet travel requirements.

Vaccinations and Health Records

Beyond general wellness, make sure to gather and carry important medical records. Some countries or airlines require proof of vaccinations or a pet passport. Also, if your dog isn’t already microchipped, you should consider doing so in case they get lost on the trip.

Packing Essentials for Your Dog's Comfort

If you’re looking for first time dog travel tips, you may be wondering if you need to bring everything. The goode news is that you’ll be able to pick up many supplies along the way, but there are certain things you don’t want to forget (or may need immediately in an emergency).

Must-Have Items

Your pooch is your best friend, right? So packing for your dog should be as thorough as packing for yourself. Essentials include food, water, collapsible bowls , toys , and any medications your dog may need. Bringing along familiar items like their bed or a favorite blanket will help reduce stress and make them feel more at home while on the go.

Preparing for Emergencies

Prepare for the unexpected by packing a dog first-aid kit . Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for ticks), and any medications specific to your dog’s needs. Having contact information for local vets at your destination is also a good idea.

Pet Travel Tips for Safety on the Road

Car safety has come a long way, but they aren’t typically designed for those with four legs.

Using a Dog Seatbelt or Crate

One of the best ways to ensure your dog’s safety during long road trips is to use a seatbelt harness or a crate . A loose dog in the car can be a dangerous distraction and is also at risk in the event of an accident. Crates can also provide a comforting space where your dog feels secure.

Regular Breaks and Hydration

Just like humans, dogs need frequent breaks to stretch their legs, hydrate , and relieve themselves. Plan to stop every two to three hours during a road trip, particularly for longer journeys.

Best Dog Travel Tips for Flying

Flying is a whole other world, but here are some dog travel tips to make your time in the sky as smooth as possible.

Airline Regulations and Pet Documentation

If you’re flying with your dog, make sure to review airline-specific regulations well in advance. Many airlines have restrictions on pet sizes, requiring dogs to fit in a carrier under the seat. Some airlines also allow dogs in the cargo hold, but this should be a last resort due to potential safety concerns.

Choosing the Right Carrier for Air Travel

Your dog's travel crate or carrier should be large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Make sure it's well-ventilated, and label it with your contact details in case you get separated.

Managing Motion Sickness and Travel Anxiety

Yes, dogs feel these, too. Here are some pet travel tips to help.

Crate Training for Stress-Free Travel

If your dog isn’t accustomed to traveling in a crate, spend some time crate training them before the trip. A well-trained dog will feel more secure in a confined space during travel. Start with short car rides and gradually increase the duration.

Calming Techniques for Anxious Dogs

If your dog is prone to anxiety, calming solutions like pheromone sprays, calming collars, or anxiety wraps may help. Bringing familiar items like their favorite toy or blanket can also provide comfort.

Keeping Your Dog Comfortable During Long-Distance Travel

Comfort ranges from being happy all the way to being safe, so don’t skip it.

Temperature Control in Cars

Whether it’s summer or winter, monitoring the car’s temperature is critical to your dog’s comfort. Avoid leaving your dog in a hot or cold car for extended periods. If your car doesn’t have air conditioning, crack the windows for ventilation but ensure your dog is secure and can’t escape.

Feeding and Hydration Tips During Travel

Stick to your dog’s normal feeding routine as much as possible. To avoid motion sickness, feed them a light meal a few hours before the journey and provide small amounts of water during breaks.

Staying Dog-Friendly at Your Destination

We love dogs, and you love dogs. Unfortunately, not everyone does.

Finding Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Before booking your stay, check that your destination is dog-friendly. Many hotels and Airbnb rentals allow pets, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.

Pet-Friendly Activities at Your Destination

Research local dog parks, pet-friendly trails, and restaurants to ensure your pup can join in on the fun once you’ve arrived. This is particularly important if you’re traveling to a new city for a dog competition.

Must-Have Travel Products for Dogs

There are a variety of products designed to make dog travel safer and more convenient. Collapsible bowls , travel harnesses , and portable dog beds are great options to consider when preparing for your trip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling With Dogs

Most of these have already been mentioned, but you don’t want to make these mistakes!

Not Planning Enough Breaks

Skipping regular breaks during a road trip can lead to restlessness and discomfort for your dog. Make sure to schedule stops every few hours to allow them to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.

Forgetting to Bring Medical Records

Don’t forget to pack your dog’s medical records, especially when traveling internationally or flying. Some airlines or countries require specific vaccinations, so make sure to research these requirements ahead of time.

Enjoy The Journey!

Traveling long distances with your dog requires preparation, patience, and attention to detail. Whether you’re driving to a dog competition or flying for a vacation, these dog travel tips will help you ensure your dog’s safety and comfort throughout the journey. By planning ahead and following these guidelines, you can make long-distance travel a positive experience for both you and your four-legged friend. Safe travels!

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Travel Tips : आनंददायी प्रवासासाठी

कॅप्टन निलेश गायकवाड

प्रवासाला जाताना त्याचे नियोजन योग्य पद्धतीने केले पाहिजे. त्यामुळे प्रवास सुखकर व सुरक्षित होतो. आयत्या वेळी होणारी गडबड टाळता येते. हे नियोजन कसे करावे, यासाठी काही मार्गदर्शक टिप्स...

वेगवेगळ्या देशांत फिरणाऱ्या पर्यटकांची संख्या दिवसेंदिवस वाढत आहे. मात्र प्रवासाबद्दल अजूनही काहींच्या मनात काहीशी भीती असते. मित्रपरिवार, सहकारी यांच्याकडून ऐकलेल्या काही अनुभवांमुळे काही वेळा प्रवासाची धास्ती वाटू शकते. पण बऱ्याचदा या घटना घडण्याला कारण असते, ते म्हणजे योग्य नियोजनाचा आणि योग्य माहितीचा अभाव. आपला प्रवास नियोजित, आरामदायी व सुरक्षित कसा होईल याकडे आपण लक्ष दिले पाहिजे.

कुठलाही विमानप्रवास त्या विमानाचा दर्जा, विमान कंपनीचे नियम व अन्य काही गोष्टींवर अवलंबून असतो. त्यामुळे या दोन्हीविषयी व्यवस्थित माहिती घेणे आवश्यक असते.

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