4 day work trip packing list

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August 26, 2018 By Michelle Maraj 35 Comments

The Ultimate Packing List for Work Trips

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. All opinions are those of the author.

As you start to travel almost every week, your business trip packing list will become routine. You might find yourself packing for your corporate trip in less than fifteen minutes! When trying to create my packing list for a work trip, I consider what items I will pack for personal travel as well. My work trip packing list is similar to my regular travel packing list, just the types of clothes that I bring will change. If you travel frequently enough, you might find it helpful to keep some items permanently in your suitcase, and only repack your clothing every week.

Building a Packing List for a Work Trip

Since I travel on a weekly basis, this Ultimate Business Trip Packing List is broken up by the following:

• Essentials left in my suitcase each week
• Items refreshed each week
• What’s in my laptop bag
• What I expect at the hotel

Packing Essentials for a Business Trip

If you travel for work frequently enough, it may make sense to have “doubles” of your toiletries, so you do not have to include them on your business trip packing list and pack them every single week. I keep the following items in my suitcase at all times:

Umbrella  // It is a good habit to check the weather before you start packing, but I have a small travel umbrella that I leave in my suitcase at all times, just in case. If you have an outer pocket on your bag, I would recommend leaving the umbrella in that pocket for easy access.

Toiletries // I keep travel-sized bottles of all of my usual toiletries in my suitcase at all times. This includes small bottles of: shampoo, conditioner, face wash, make-up remover, lotion. I then refill these every few weeks as needed. In addition I will keep a double of my toothbrush, toothpaste, cotton balls, deodorant, hairbrush and hair ties, and razor so that I do not need to repack these each week. As a woman, I also keep tampons and pads in my suitcase at all times.

Spare phone charger // I have a habit of leaving my phone chargers behind at home or at the office, and I have accidentally traveled without a phone charger before! Now, I always leave an extra phone charger in my bag, just in case.

Laundry Bag // My  Away Bigger Carry-On  suitcase came with a laundry bag inside, and I use this to keep my dirty clothes separate from the clean clothes I have not worn yet. I would recommend bringing some type of reusable bag to use as a laundry bag in your suitcase, so you can keep dirty underwear and socks at minimum separate from your work clothes.

All of my toiletries on my business trip packing list are travel sized, so that I do not have to worry about checking a bag. I keep shower items (shampoo, conditioner, face wash) in a separate plastic bag from my remaining items, so that when I am fast to unpack after arriving at the hotel. I use this TSA-approved clear toiletry bag to keep my items organized.

Refreshed Each Week While Traveling for Work

When I am traveling for work, I always bring enough clothes for the number of days that I am traveling, plus one extra day. You never know when you will spill something on your shirt, or you get stranded somewhere overnight! If I was traveling for work Monday through Thursday (3 nights), and I dressed business professional and wore a suit on the plane there, then I would pack in my suitcase:

4 Button-Up Tops // I primarily wear Express Portofino Shirts to work. I like these tops because you can wear them with a blazer, without a jacket, and even out to dinner in the evening. They are very versatile, and a staple in my work uniform. I always pack one extra shirt than days I am traveling – if I am staying 3 nights, I will pack 4 shirts to have one as a back-up.

2 Work Bottoms (Pants or Skirt) // If you include the dress pants that I wear on the plane, I would typically pack two additional bottoms to rotate between. I will bring additional bottoms that coordinate with my blazers for the week. For example, if I am wearing a black blazer, I would choose black bottoms. Navy blazer, navy bottoms.

1 Additional Blazer // Some people can get away with only bringing one blazer (worn on the plane) with them during the week, especially if you only wear your blazer while traveling but then take it off during the day while working. I personally like to bring a blazer to rotate between, and as a back-up in case I spill something on my other blazer.

1 Pair of Jeans, No Holes // It is a good idea to bring a pair of casual pants for when you are going to a team dinner or running errands after work. Occasionally I will wear my work pants to dinner as well, so I do not feel a need to bring more than one pair of casual pants. I opt for no holes or tears, to remain slightly more professional.

1 Pair of Heels // Assuming I already wore a pair of heels on my travel day to the client, I will bring an additional pair of heels to rotate between. I find that if I try to wear the same pair of heels everyday for a week, that they will start to smell.

1 Pair of Casual Shoes (Sandals or Flats) // It’s a good idea to bring a pair of casual shoes, for both team dinners or walking around the hotel. If you need to run down to the front desk, it’s a bit awkward to do so in pajamas and heels.

4 Pairs of Underwear // Always bring an extra pair, just in case!

4 Pairs of No-Show Socks // Whether you need no-shoe socks for your heels or dress socks for your shoes, don’t forget to pack your socks in your suitcase.

1 Set of Pajamas // You will not want to sleep in your dress clothes at night; don’t forget to pack a set of pajamas in your suitcase. My pajamas are usually a free firm shirt and a pair of shorts!

Work-out Clothes // I don’t typically work out during the week while I am traveling, but I threw this on the list so that you do not forget. It is a good idea to work out on the road, but you will need to find extra space to fit your work-out shoes and clothes. It’s possible, though!

Make-up Case //  My make-up case contains all of my daily-wear make-up, and since I use the same make-up on the weekends I will repack this each week. Depending on your routine, it may make sense to have doubles of your make-up on your business trip packing list as well

Hair Dryer  // You may be fine with the hotel hair dryer, however I have been working on improving my hair maintenance. I recently invested in the T3 Featherweight Compact hair dryer – it is so fast at drying my hair, and it is great for traveling. This hair dryer came with a dust bag and the hair dryer folds in half, for easier packing.

Jewelry // Depending on the level of formality, I might bring my jewelry case while traveling . I prefer studs or small hoops for a professional look, and might bring a few necklaces and bracelets to rotate between.

I also have developed a wardrobe that will work for both the work day and the evening. The shirts or blouses that I bring are usually convertible and fine for dinner in the evening. However, if you are wearing nicer shirts or dresses during the day, you may also want to consider packing casual tops for the evening as well.

My Laptop Bag Necessities

My biggest fear is leaving my laptop charger at home. Most of these items are always in my work bag and travel with me even to the office, but I wanted to go ahead and include on the packing list for work trips here. 

Work Laptop & Charger // Make sure that you bring your work computer! It’s difficult to get anything done without your laptop and you do not want to waste time waiting on it to be shipped. The single most important thing for you to bring is your computer.

Wireless Mouse // You can order a cheap mouse off Amazon  for less than $10, and you can bring it on the road to increase your efficiency. I always opt for colors other than black, so that it does not get mixed up with anyone else’s belongings.

Headphones // I love my AirPods as they are great for taking calls, but any type of headphones are a good idea to keep in your work bag. You may have to take phone calls or watch videos in a conference room with your colleagues, and it is much easier to take these calls hands-free.

Phone Charger // I leave a phone charger in my work bag as well, so that I can charge my phone on the go. Especially if you are wasting time at the airport, it is important to keep your phone charger so you can contact coworkers when you land, or call an Uber if necessary.

Office/Client Access Badge // If you have been traveling to a client for a while, you likely received some sort of access badge to get into their building. You do not want to have to bother your client to get another badge assigned to you, or go through the hassle of speaking to security each time. If you have an access badge, make sure to leave it in your work bag so you do not forget it.

Pens & a Notepad // Even though we primarily use our computers these days, you may need to jot down client notes while your computer is loading, or draw out a sketch to explain an idea. It is a good idea to leave pens and a notepad in your bag at all times, so you never have to worry about asking your coworker to borrow one.

Gum  // Especially after a long flight or lunch, you will want fresh breath over the course of your work trip. Make sure to pack some gum in your laptop bag, so that you always feel fresh.

These items are always in my bag, so I will usually have them on my work trip as well. You never realize how badly you miss your wireless mouse until the day that you accidentally leave it at home!

Packing for a conference? Check out our post on What to Pack for a Business Conference . 

Hotel Expectations During a Business Trip

There are a few items that I do not have on my packing list for work trips, because I expect my hotel to have them. If you are not picky about your toiletries like shampoo or conditioner, it would be much easier to just use the hotel versions rather than worrying about leaks in your suitcase. These items include:

Hand Lotion // I am picky for my face, but not for the rest of my body when it comes to lotion. It’s one less bottle that I have to pack, so I do expect to be able to use the hand lotion available in the hotel room.

Water Bottles // You typically get free water bottles with Marriott Platinum! It is greener to bring your own reusable water bottle, however I will admit I do not usually remember to. I do expect that there will be water in my hotel room, or at least easily accessible in the hotel, when I arrive.

Iron // One day, I do hope to invest in a portable steamer. For now however, I do expect an iron in the hotel room so that I can iron my clothes. I like to unpack the night that I arrive at the hotel, and I iron all of my clothes for the week at once. It can be difficult to iron all of your clothes the first night since you are likely tired from traveling, but you will thank yourself later in the week.

Towels // I know some consultants are particular and prefer to bring their own towels, rather than using those available at the hotel.  I, however, expect towels in the hotel and will gladly use those.

The single most important thing to bring on your business trip, honestly, is your work laptop. If you need toiletries that aren’t found in your hotel room, you can often call the front desk and they can bring additional toiletries to you. I ran out of toothpaste and forgot to re-pack it, and fortunately the hotel always has toothpaste packets to offer. Everything else, you can buy on the road.

Packing Your Suitcase for a Business Trip

When packing my suitcase for a work trip, 50% of my suitcase will be clothing. I use three packing cubes that fit in the compression compartment of my suitcase – one cube for my blazers and pants, one cube for shirts, and one cube for underwear.

If you liked the Ultimate Business Trip Packing List, you can download a free pdf checklist below. If there’s anything missing from this packing list, let us know in the comments below.

Learn more about traveling for work

• 10 Work Trip Instagram Captions
• Why a Trolley Strap is a Requirement for Your Next Work Bag
• 5 Challenges of Managing Remote Employees
• Matt’s Flights Custom Search – Here’s Our Review of What He Found
• Jey&em ONE Suitcase Review

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• Packing Lists

Business Trip Packing List for Overnight, 3-Day, and 5-Day Trips

Published September 19, 2023

Written by:

Laura Lopuch

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Whether you’re heading out on a last-minute, overnight business trip, or a five-day conference abroad, packing for business travel is always different than prepping for a fun vacation.

Your work trip packing list will likely include more electronics and gear. So you’ll need to plan around the extra items and weight.

Also, traditional business clothes are notoriously delicate and wrinkle-prone, so they can be difficult to pack.

This article will break down how and what to pack for your business trip. We’ll cover men’s and women’s business clothing , advice on managing your electronics, and more.

Protect your laptop when you fly.

• Personal-item-sized
• Easy to pack
• Comfortable to carry
• Built to last

How to Pack for a Business Trip

Carry on plus personal item.

When packing for a work trip, use carry-on-sized luggage plus a personal item that can carry your laptop.

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

Pack your laptop in your personal item when you travel, ideally in a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve for protection. If you’re using a tote or other bag that doesn’t have a padded area for your laptop, invest in a laptop sleeve to protect it.

If you’re one-bagging, make sure you choose luggage that has a dedicated laptop compartment. Remove your laptop before stowing your bag in the overhead compartment so that you can work during your flight.

Whatever you do, never, ever put your laptop in a checked bag and risk it being broken, lost, or stolen while in transit.

Roll Your Clothes and Pack Them in Packing Cubes

Once upon a time, I didn’t use  packing cubes . And my bag was a disaster. It took long minutes to find the shirt I was looking for or clean socks. Not anymore, thanks to packing cubes.

To look your best, you should fold your clothes along the seams then roll them . Yes, this even applies to most dress clothes. When you arrive, hang your clothes in the closet or even in the bathroom when you shower to release more wrinkles. Your hotel should have an iron for any necessary touchups beyond that.

For maximum organization, use packing cubes and assign each one a purpose. For example, a smaller packing cube holds underwear. A larger cube keeps your shirts organized and wrinkle-free. Then, roll them before zipping them away to make each item easy to find while preventing creases and wrinkles.

How to Pack Your Suit: Fold, Don’t Roll

A traditional, wool suit must be packed properly to keep its shape while in transit. To pack a suit in a carry on , fold it, don’t roll it.

Alternatively, you can try a wrinkle-free suit from Bluffworks or Ministry of Supply ( men’s , women’s ). Wrinkle-free, synthetic fabrics have improved dramatically from the early days of stiff, plastic-y dress shirts.

Stuff smaller, soft accessories like your socks, tie, and pocket square in your shoes to preserve their shape.

Business Trip Packing List

A good business trip packing list is built around a solid core, personalized to your needs and style. “Work clothes” can vary depending on your industry and the nature of your trip. You could be dressed anywhere from a three-piece suit to a shirt and slacks to a hoodie and jeans. Pack and dress as makes sense for your business trip.

Let’s start with the basics.

• Copy of itinerary
• Boarding pass
• Transportation and accommodations

If your business trip takes you across borders, don’t leave home without your passport. If you’re traveling abroad for your business trip, know that some countries won’t let you in without a guarantee of when you’ll leave. Pack a copy of your complete itinerary, including evidence of when you’ll leave the country, to show border security.

After your passport, your boarding pass is your most important document. Mobile boarding passes are convenient, but make sure that you’ll have internet access via your phone if you plan to use one. Or, take a screenshot of the boarding pass and use it offline through your photo app.

For your own convenience, print out the details of your transportation from the airport to your accommodations (if you’ve booked anything), the address of where you’re staying (for customs forms and taxi drivers).

I use  TripIt  to aggregate all of my trip details in one place. Using the app is more convenient than carrying a stack of printouts with me. However, paper copies are better for border crossings and for when you don’t have WiFi access or a local SIM card.

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• Laptop and charger
• Adapter (if traveling abroad)

Carry earbuds if you want to travel light or noise-canceling headphones if you want a quieter trip. For the latter, we like Bose’s QuietComfort line.

The  Macbook Pro  and  Macbook Air  are the most popular choices for Apple users. We recommend the lightest computer you can get that doesn’t sacrifice the performance you’ll need. Dave at Too Many Adapters wrote a helpful guide to  choosing a laptop for work and travel .

• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Water bottle
• Kindle or book
• Pen and notebook

If you’re taking long flights or overnight trains, earplugs and an eye mask make for all-natural, compact sleep aids.

Get a reusable, refillable water bottle for your travels so that you can stay hydrated without generating the extra trash of plastic bottles.

I’m still old-school and read physical books instead of using a Kindle. Either way, don’t forget a good book to pass long hours waiting or traveling.

Clothes: Business Travel Wardrobe

When packing clothes for a business trip, look for items that pull double-duty and that can be dressed up or down.

Meaning: that black dress looks equally stunning with a scarf for a casual business meeting or a statement necklace for a client dinner. Whatever your personal style is, pack items that make you feel comfortable and confident.

Although the exact items will differ depending on your style and gender, the clothes section of a 3-day business packing list looks like this:

• 3 tops; 2 dress tops and 1 casual top
• 1-2 bottoms
• 3 pairs of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 set of pajamas
• 2 pairs of shoes : 1 dress shoe and 1 athletic/casual shoes
• Workout clothes (optional)

Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the above business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

• 1 lightweight t-shirt to dress up or down

Pack two business-appropriate blouses or collared shirts and wear the more casual t-shirt on the plane. I love J.Crew’s vintage cotton t-shirts as they look chic (and feel comfortable) with jeans or slacks. 

Everlane has a range of modern, basic shirts that work for both business and casual attire. Their Japanese GoWeave line is especially good for travel since the fabric is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and comfortable.

• 1 dark-colored blazer or suit jacket

It’s no secret that I’m a huge J.Crew fan. Their women’s blazers fit well, look chic, and last a long time. Consider a wool blazer that keeps you cool in hot boardrooms and warm on chilly airplanes.

If you’re willing to make the investment, consider a wrinkle-resistant blazer, like the Kinetic Blazer by Ministry of Supply , that you can pack without worrying about it turning into a rumpled mess. En route, wear your blazer so it doesn’t get wrinkled in your carry on bag.

2 Bottoms and 1 Dress

• 1 pair of slacks or skirt
• 1 pair of dark-wash  jeans , worn on the plane
• 1  dress (optional)

Opt for  Betabrand’s Yoga Dress Pants  for sleek black pants made from stretchy material like your favorite yoga pants. Alternatively, look at ADAY’s line of pants for a wrinkle, odor, and pill-resistant pair of business travel pants that are technical, travel-ready, and fashionable.

I live in jeans, and even on the dressiest business trip, I’d yearn for a pair. If you’re like me, wear your jeans on the plane. My favorites are Lucky Brand jeans with some stretch woven in.

Love your dresses? Pack a versatile dress like one from  Draper James  or any of the odor-and-wrinkle-resistant merino wool dresses by Wool& .

3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

• 3 pairs of  socks
• 3 pairs of  underwear
• 2  bras

If you want to hand wash your underwear, you can get away with packing less. However, for a short 3-day business trip like this one, pack one pair per day. Because you’ll save more on time vs packing space.

2 Pairs of Shoes

• 1 pair of business-appropriate shoes
• 1 pair of athletic shoes, worn on the plane

Pack one pair of professional shoes that are small, light, and comfortable, like this  pair of classic black heels from Clarks , or a simple and easy-to pack pair of flats or loafers by Rothy’s .

You can wear your heels through the airport, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, I wear a pair of black athletic shoes that I can use for a run or workout at my destination.

1 Set of Pajamas

• 1 lightweight shirt
• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

My favorite packing light secret? Make your pajamas and workout clothes the same outfit. Snag a quick, sweaty workout in the AM and hand wash your clothes in the sink. By the time you’re ready for bedtime, your clothes will be dry and ready for you.

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Dress Shirts and 1 Casual T-Shirt

• 2 wrinkle-resistant dress shirts
• 1 casual shirt that’s suitable for after-dinner drinks and on the airplane

Ironing dress shirts is a pain. Instead, opt for a wrinkle-resistant dress shirt (or two), like one from Bluffworks . They are made from 98% polyester (that’s a good thing), have lots of stretch, are breathable, and dry quickly. The best part is that they’re machine washable. Perfect for happy hour or the boardroom in any city you visit.

For your casual shirt, opt for a versatile merino wool t-shirt that will stand up to the rigors of travel.

2 Pairs of Pants

• 2 pairs of pants and/or  jeans

For a pair of pants that can easily work for business and leisure alike, pack a pair of basic, but high-performance pants, like the good-looking  Outlier Slim Dungarees . If you prefer jeans, try  Bonobos’ Extra Stretch Travel Jeans  which are made from lightweight, 10.5 ounce denim and have a 1% stretch.

Stick to 1-2 pairs of pants and wear your more casual pair on your flight.

Avoid doing laundry on a quick, three-day business trip and, instead, pack three pairs of underwear and three pairs of socks.

1 Blazer or Jacket

Read the full Buyer’s Guide to Travel Blazers for all of our favorites. Or, jump right to our top pick, the wrinkle-free  Bluffworks Gramercy Travel Blazer .

• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of athletic shoes for workouts (optional)

Think small, light, and comfortable for your shoes. Like the  Lenox Hill Cap Toe Oxfords from Cole Haan  or  Vivobarefoot Ra II.

Packing two pairs? Wear the heavier or bulkier pair through the airport and pack the lighter pair.

• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

5-Day Business Trip Packing List

For a longer, five-day business trip, be prepared to hand wash your clothes mid-trip. Or, have the hotel do it for you. Check with the front desk to see if they offer a laundry service for guests. Make sure to ask how long it will take and the price.

Not keen on doing laundry? Prepare to pack a little more in your luggage. You can still pack carry-on-only for a five-day trip. Some of our customers travel for weeks, months, or years out of just a carry on .

When your clothes get a little wrinkled or smelly, hang them up in the bathroom while you take a hot, steamy shower. The hot, moist air eases wrinkles and smells from your clothes.

What to add to the base list above for a five-day business trip:

• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 blouse or dress shirt
• 1 casual shirt to dress up or down

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

Ready for a quick, easy packing list for a one-night business trip? Reduce the number of items in your one-day work trip packing list by two.

Pack an outfit, wear an outfit, and add the non-clothing essentials.

What to pack for an overnight business trip:

• 1 dress shirt
• 1 casual shirt
• 1 pair of dress pants or skirt
• 1 pair of casual pants
• 1-2 pairs of shoes (one dress pair and one athletic)
• 1 pair of underwear
• 1 pair of socks
• 1 blazer or jacket
• Book or kindle
• Notebook and pen
• Ear plugs and eye mask
• Travel adaptor and passport (if international)

Steal a page from George Clooney’s well-refined playbook from  Up in The Air  and streamline your airport experience by packing only in a carry on bag . You’ll save time at the airport and feel more confident.

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Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing about it. As an expert in carry on travel, she’s flown on over 100 flights with only a carry on bag. Even on trips with her husband and kids.

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The Complete 4 Day Trip Packing List (pdf)

When planning for a short getaway lasting 3 to 4 days and nights, carefully considering what to pack is key. Overstuffing bags with unnecessary items results in either paying more in airline fees or struggling to lug around excess weight. Creating a comprehensive yet lean 4 Day Trip Packing List ensures you have all clothing, footwear, toiletries, electronics, and essentials needed for an enjoyable, hassle-free long weekend, without going overboard. This detailed packing checklist outlines versatile, multipurpose items across all categories worth including in your luggage, versus products better left at home for brief trips. With the right preparation using this list, you can maximize comfort and convenience when traveling light for 4 glorious days.

• 1 4 Day Trip Packing List
• 2 4 Day Trip Packing List PDF Download
• 3.2 Bottoms
• 3.3 Undergarments and Sleepwear
• 3.5 Outfit Example
• 4.1 Toiletries
• 4.2 Medicines and First Aid
• 5.1 Electronics
• 5.2 Entertainment/Business Needs
• 6.1 Accessories
• 6.2 Important Items
• 6.3 Nice to Have Extras
• 7.1 What luggage should I use for a 4 day trip?
• 7.2 How many pairs of shoes should you pack for 4 days?
• 7.3 What are the best materials for clothing on summer weekend trips?
• 7.4 How do I avoid overpacking toiletries?
• 7.5 Should I bring my laptop and tablet for a long weekend?
• 8 Conclusion

4 Day Trip Packing List

4 day trip packing list pdf download, clothing and shoes.

When packing tops for a 4 day trip , make sure to bring versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down.

Suggested items:

• 4 shirts (short and long-sleeved)
• 2 blouses or nice tops
• 2 tank tops
• 1 lightweight sweater or cardigan
• 1 jacket/coat if needed

Why Bring Multiple Tops

Having multiple tops allows you to mix and match outfits to maximize your packing. By bringing items that can be dressed up with accessories or worn casually, you can reuse pieces instead of overpacking.

For example, a nice blouse can be worn to dinner one night with dress pants then casually the next day with jeans. Tank tops are great versatile layering pieces under cardigans or on their own.

Bottoms take up a significant amount of suitcase space, so choose versatile, lightweight options.

• 2 pairs pants (jeans, casual pants, leggings)
• 2 pairs shorts

Choosing the Right Bottoms

Focus on pants and shorts in materials like linen, chino, or lightweight denim rather than heavy jeans. These tend to be more comfortable in warm weather and minimize suitcase bulk.

Leggings and athletic shorts also make excellent multi-use bottoms for exercising and lounging around the hotel. Choosing one skirt and one dress is plenty for a 4 day trip as they can be dressed up with your nicer tops and accessories.

Undergarments and Sleepwear

Bringing enough undergarments and sleepwear prevents having to do laundry on a short trip.

• 5+ pairs underwear
• 4+ pairs socks
• Pajamas or lounge set

Limit shoes to save suitcase space. Focus on 1 pair closed-toed shoes, 1 pair sandals, and optional workout/hiking shoes.

• Flats/loafers
• Flip flops for hotel/beach

Shoe Considerations

Closed toed shoes like sneakers or loafers can be worn with most outfits. Sandals work for both casual daywear and dinners out. For beach locales, pack lightweight flip flops. If planning adventurous hikes or fitness classes, pack appropriate athletic shoes.

Outfit Example

Here is an example of mixing and matching just a few versatile pieces from the sections above to create multiple outfits:

Outfit 1: Long sleeve blouse, jeans, loafers, accessories for dinner out

Swap items: Short sleeve shirt, skirt, sandals, straw handbag for Outfit 2 casual sightseeing

Toiletries and Medicines

Packing multipurpose, travel-friendly toiletries in 3 oz containers saves luggage space.

• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Makeup and remover totes
• Contacts, solution, glasses
• Shampoo, conditioner
• Body wash, lotion
• Face wash, moisturizer
• Hair products as needed
• Razor, shaving cream

Key Toiletries

Focus on packing small toiletries that pull double duty – micellar water as makeup remover and face wash or 2-in-1 shampoo & conditioner bars to save space . You can purchase anything forgotten like tweezers or Q-tips when you arrive.

Pack contact lens supplies even if you plan to wear glasses most of the trip as a backup. Travel size toiletries can be purchased or poured into reusable silicone bottles.

Medicines and First Aid

Don’t forget important medicines and health items you routinely use at home.

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter pain reliever
• Antihistamine, anti-diarrheal
• Hand sanitizer
• Motion sickness medication if needed
• Pepto-Bismol

Having a small first aid kid on hand helps in treating minor injuries. Basic medications can reduce nuisance symptoms or allergies when traveling. Prescription medications should be kept in your carry-on bag.

Electronics and Entertainment

Carefully evaluating electronics and entertainment needs based on itinerary prevents overpacking chargers and gadgets that won’t get used.

Electronics

Basic suggested items:

• Cell phone and charger
• Digital camera
• Chargers/battery pack

You likely use your phone, laptop, and tablet daily at home. These are still handy while traveling to take photos, access emails, and stay entertained in the hotel. Determine device necessities based on how tech dependent your trip will be or if you plan to disconnect. If relying heavily on devices, bring backup chargers and battery packs in case of emergency.

Entertainment/Business Needs

Depending on trip plans, consider:

• Guide books
• Beach read fiction
• Swimsuit and cover-up (for hotel pool)
• Portable speaker

Loading an eReader or tablet with books, music, movies, and magazines is an excellent entertainment option for downtime. Don’t forget specific business needs like work presentations on a laptop or tablet if attending conferences while away.

Miscellaneous Essentials

These small extras make a big difference in comfort and convenience while traveling.

Accessories

• 1-2 handbags/totes
• Scarf/shawl

Accessories allow you to change up basic outfits and complete looks. Small items like jewelry, hats, and scarves take up little room. Protecting your eyes from sun glare with sunglasses is also a must.

Important Items

Do not forget:

• Wallet/cash/cards
• ID/driver’s license
• Insurance cards
• Itinerary printouts
• Boarding passes

Having cash and ID on hand is critical. Create paper or digital copies of all reservations, flight/hotel confirmations, car rental info, and map directions as back ups. Make sure your credit card will not expire during travels.

Nice to Have Extras

Consider packing:

• Travel blanket/pillow
• Multi-use tools
• Flashlight, extra batteries
• Water bottle
• Laundry soap strips/bags
• Plastic bags for dirty clothes

A sleep mask, ear plugs, and blanket make red eye flights and hotel stays cozier. Having some snacks on hand saves money and prevents vending machine cravings. Packing a lightweight, packable rain jacket is wise even when sunny weather is forecasted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What luggage should i use for a 4 day trip.

A medium sized carry-on roller bag (21″-22″) and personal item like a tote bag or backpack is ideal for this length. Trying to manage multiple checked bags leads to higher baggage fees and difficulty getting around. Make use of compartments and organizer pouches in your luggage to neatly store categories of items.

How many pairs of shoes should you pack for 4 days?

Aim for 3-4 pairs maximum. Bringing 1 pair of casual walking shoes, 1 pair of dressier sandals, and optional flip flops or athletic shoes covers most needs. The key is choosing versatile shoes in neutral colors that go with multiple outfits. If visiting warmer climates, sandals can be work almost daily.

What are the best materials for clothing on summer weekend trips?

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, rayon, and chambray work well. These allow airflow and minimize sweating in heat. Synthetic technical fabrics that wick moisture and dry quickly are also great options for shorts, tanks, or tees. Avoid heavy fabrics like denim unless essential.

How do I avoid overpacking toiletries?

Look for 2-in-1 products and travel friendly sizes. Bring trial or travel sizes when possible or purchase reusable bottles/tubes to pour bulk toiletries into. Multipurpose items like tinted moisturizer with SPF or dry shampoo with styling properties condense packing. Focus on basics rather than specialty products to save space.

Should I bring my laptop and tablet for a long weekend?

Only pack what you realistically need. If planning to disconnect from work emails, leave the laptop home and just bring a tablet preloaded with books/movies. If you need to work part of the trip , pack essential devices but limit use to truly necessary times to prevent burnout. Electronics take up heavy space and weight so don’t overpack.

Creating the optimal packing list for a 4 day trip is all about maximizing versatility from the limited clothing and toiletries you can transport. Choosing lightweight multipurpose items and focusing on quality over quantity prevents lugging home unused items.

If you implement the tips above like selecting wrinkle resistant fabrics, breathable materials suited for the climate, and shoes working for adventures and evenings out, you can mix and match minimal separates into varied outfits. Utilizing packing organizers, compartments, and reusable bottles neatly contains all your gear. Traveling carry-on only allows skipping baggage claim and exploring freely on arrival.

What you don’t bring is just as important on short trips. Leave the blow dryer and excessive pairs of shoes at home and take advantage of destination conveniences instead. Purchase any forgotten toiletries or apply hotel bathroom products to hair/skin. Wrinkle release spray touches up clothing after packing . By properly preparing using the checklist above, you can travel light without sacrifice on brief getaways.

Additional Packing Resources:

TSA Website – Guidelines on Liquids, Electronics, Food Allows in Carry Ons

REI Pack Lists – Additional Packing Tips + Checklists Based on Activity

Travelsmith Packing Organizers – Specialty Travel Products Like Cubes, Bottles, Bags

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Her Packing List

Packing Lists

Ultimate female packing list for a minimalist business trip.

The following packing list for a minimalist business trip was submitted by Rachel. See all packing lists .

When I first started traveling for work , I may have appeared a little high maintenance… I packed my life into a roller bag, a giant computer bag, and my purse. I imagined myself as Legally Blonde ’s Elle Woods when I showed up to the TSA line , teetering on too-tall heels, my matching pink luggage in tow.

After being on the road for much of the last three years, my attitude, gear, and how I travel has changed dramatically : now I’m less Legally Blonde , and more Catch Me if You Can . For work I travel about 30 percent of the time to different client sites, enough so my inner adventurer gets excited about the boutique hotel and off-the-beaten-path restaurant, but not too much where I forget where I traveled last week.

My Lightbulb Moment

About two years ago, I took a trip with a colleague to Los Angeles over four days. On the way back to the airport, I noticed she didn’t have a roller bag or duffle. She only carried a Northface backpack and large purse. I asked where her bag was, concerned she forgot it. She responded with, “I only ever bring a backpack and a purse . If I can’t pack it in here I don’t need it.”

I was incredulous! I had never heard of anyone doing that. It. Blew. My. Mind. I thought maybe there’s something to it and challenged myself to give it a try .

On the next several trips I made a conscious effort to bring less stuff . No I don’t need five pairs of shoes. No I don’t need my bathing suit and towel for the hotel pool. No I don’t need a suit and a change of clothes for each day and an extra outfit—just in case. You get the picture.

I gained momentum and thought about what else I could cut, analyzing what I didn’t use and leaving anything unused behind on the next trip. I discovered packing cubes , blogs about traveling light , and new ideas sparked. I soon fit everything in my Northface and carried a purse with room to spare. Then I hit a wall…

I loved the freedom from carrying so little . BUT I didn’t feel or look particularly professional carrying a bright yellow backpack. I started looking around at airports at the different consultants on the road and saw men and women in backpacks that looked professional and comfortable . I made mental notes of brands, shapes, sizes, colors, material, etc. I quoted backpack facts to my husband whose eyes started to glaze over any time I pulled up the REI website or eBags or whichever was my favorite of the moment. Then I found the one.

>>Read the female packing guide to working from the road .

What I Pack Now

Now I pack everything in my purse and Timbuk2 Jet Laptop Pack (review coming soon). It is 30 liters of organization and compartmentalization so I know where everything is and can reach it at a moment’s notice.

A couple of the things I really like from a work travel perspective are its clean look and it fits under the seat in front of you on most airplanes. You can carry it both as a backpack and as a briefcase, and it has a separate laptop compartment. I can carry everything I need and have room for more if I pick up something new in my travels.

On the plane, I will typically dress in jeans, cardigan, and my flats (which match both my suit and casual attire). I plan my tops so when my meeting ends I can swap the skirt for jeans and be ready for a casual night around town or for a glass of wine with a colleague.

I’ll use jewelry to dress my outfits up or down, as it’s a great way to change the feel of an outfit in an instant without taking up much space in my bag.

>>Check out this versatile 16L minimalist packing list .

My Packing List for a Minimalist Business Trip:

• Toiletries : razor, face lotion, comb, floss, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, q-tips, nail kit, Kleenex, spare contacts + contact solution , face wash, menstrual cup , and depending on the hotel, shampoo and conditioner. Often times, if I know the hotel will have decent toiletries, I’ll change out what I bring and just use what they provide.
• Minimalist makeup kit
• Mini medical kit – Band aids, aspirin, Imodium, etc.
• Electronics: Laptop, phone, chargers
• Travel coffee mug
• Water bottle
• Pen set: I like color options
• Scarf: for warmth and fashion
• Book or Nook depending on the length of the trip
• 1 suit skirt and jacket (or packable blazer )
• 1 pair jeans
• 1 workout outfit
• 1 sleep outfit
• 1 pair of tennis shoes
• 1 pair of flats
• 1, 2, or 3 dress shirts (one shirt for the number of nights I’m gone)
• 1 pair underwear for each night
• 1 pair pantyhose for each meeting

Overall, my way of seeing the world has changed because of what I pack. I glide through airports in a way I didn’t before. If I’m running late I’m confident that I can physically run to the gate.

I am more hands free, and when I want access to something, I know exactly where it is. And, because I’m packing in the same way each trip with similar items, I pack faster with more consistency.

Even with what I bring, I could still cut back if I needed. With each trip I continue to experiment with the combination of items I bring, and I look forward to perfecting the system and learning how others do the same.

• Check out this awesome article on how HPL’s best minimalist packing tips can be used to organize your home !

About the author: Rachel is a consultant, outdoor enthusiast, and animal lover who travels frequently around the U.S. for work and pleasure. When not on the road for work, you can find her planning her next hike on the Appalachian Trail, half-marathon through the mountains out west, or swing through South America—and she never checks a bag (except maybe backpacking gear). She lives in Chicago with her husband and a small menagerie of pets.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using them, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps to keep this site running – thank you!

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Reader Interactions

August 2, 2017 at 6:50 pm

This is so great – I went to Italy for almost three weeks with just a carryon and it was SO FREEING. But I still had too much stuff. I’ve come a long way from my younger years when I’d carry full-size toiletries items and a massive suitcase full of “options.” Now I know better and I know I’ve got favorite pieces and I should just take those. It’s way easier to just have a few things to choose from and it’s so easy to move from place to place when my bag is light and small.

August 10, 2017 at 12:07 pm

Hi, thanks a lot for this insight 😀 Honestly, it’s always like: oh I need, this and this and that and in the end you only end up using a few things, that would even have fitted into a tiny bag. One question I have to you: how do you keep your tops without wrinkles?

April 21, 2019 at 1:23 am

I lay my tops or blouses on my bed and fold each one carefully, smoothing as I go. It’s really a matter of practice. But here’s the good part! Once folded, slide the blouse or top into a one gallon zip lock bag, One top to a bag. Without moving the bag around too much, or lifting it, I suck the air out of the bag and seal it. With practice, this makes an airtight parcel that keeps the shirts smooth. I’ve even been able to slide the bag across the room without disturbing the contents, as long as the seal is unbroken! I hope this works for you!

January 7, 2020 at 7:26 pm

I’m a big believer in rolling your tops. I also tend to pick fabrics which don’t wrinkle much anyway. Lastly when I’m in my room, the first thing I do is unpack everything, hang it, and if it looks wrinkled at all, use either the hotel iron or a fun trick I learned. In the morning when you are showering, hang whatever is wrinkled in the room with you and make sure the door is closed. The heat from the shower steams up the room as well as your clothes -essentially steaming out all the wrinkles! Hope that helps!

June 6, 2021 at 6:02 pm

Great article! Just out of curiosity, what brand is the 2-in-1 makeup compact in your picture?

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The Ultimate Packing List For A Four Day Business Trip

RV Road Trip Meals that are Super Easy and Tasty

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The Most Popular Business Travel Destinations

5 Tips For Staying Healthy & Fit While Traveling

Planning for business trip can be one of the most daunting experiences for any working individual, particularly if your job requires frequent business travels to international trade fairs, exhibitions or congresses. However, one of the most contributing factors to stress associated with travelling for business is lack of adequate preparation, and conceivably it’s important to point out that proper packing of things you might need on your trip will not only save you time, but also minimize your stress. Although, this is not necessarily a guarantee that your journey will be stress-free or rather drama-free.

Business travel involves more consideration; unlike personal travel in which you can pack haphazardly at the last minute if need be. Packing minimally is a sensible approach to business travel, but which items are so important you cannot afford to leave them behind while going for a four day business trip? Here is packing list that will surely help you.

It is pretty obvious that clothing is one of the most essential things that any human being cannot do without, and so as business travellers. Essentially, clothes are considered to be the topmost item on your packing list, regardless of the duration of your business trip. Even though dress codes vary greatly with professions , you have to ensure that you pack only the exact number of outfits you are going to need, and no more than that.

Toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, facial cleanser, conditioner, make-up, hairspray and razor, are usually a must-pack for a woman who is a new business traveler. However, the toiletries you might need to pack will depend entirely on your gender and profession or if you are going to carry on a bag or with the checked luggage option. Also, your means of travel can play a prominent role in determining the type or even the amount of toiletries you can pack. For instance, if you’re traveling by air, keep travel restrictions in mind, especially if you are not planning to check your bag. For a four day business trip, pack your toiletries in small sizes using quart-size plastic bags, especially all liquids and gels.

Items for personal comfort

It’s not always that easy to be away from home, but including some items tailored for your own personal comfort can help make your business trip somewhat easier. Your favorite electronics, such as your MP3 player or your laptop, and even books or family photos can offer you with the entertainment and comfort you might need as you travel or even during your stay in a hotel room or serviced apartment.

This packing list will certainly make your four day business trip a successful one, but you should not forget your travel documents. However, if you intend on staying for a relatively longer period of time, consider renting serviced apartments over hotels . You can do it online before you travel.

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Brenda is a part time blogger and a regular contributor to several blogs. She is also a great animal lover who enjoys spending her time traveling and writing about her experiences.

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Business Trip Packing List: What to Pack When You’re on An Important Business Trip?

Struggling when trying to come up with a business trip packing list ? Don’t fret, we’ve got you back. Below is a list of essential elements that can serve as a checklist for everything you need to carry in during your business travel.

If you ever find yourself asking the same old question every time you prepare for a business trip: “What should I be bringing?”, don’t worry, we’ve all been through that.

As a business traveller, you are probably on the road no less than ten times a year. And packing up your extended business trip can be daunting, especially when you are on a last-minute move and everything just becomes so overwhelming.

To help you travel smarter for business, our team brings you the fastest way to include all the travel essentials in your business travel packing list . There are many factors to make up a successful business trip, and it all starts with packing your stuff the right way. When you know what to keep in your luggage, you'll always have what you need!

The Ultimate Business Trip Checklist for Women

A great trick for you ladies to organise your work trip packing lis t is to group all essentials together and then choose a specific-coloured and different bag size for each group. This way you can always easily find everything you need whenever you want!

Whether you’re on a 2-day or 2-week trip , a clear zipper top cosmetic bag would be a good choice to store all your beauty essentials in order to get through airport security easily. 

For a basic set of makeup essentials, there should be a sheer foundation create the radiant complexion, a concealer for extra dose of coverage, a rosy blusher as well as an instant eyeshadow, a mascara and last but not least, add in your favourite lipsticks and travel size perfume - the ones that not only make you look like a gorgeous lady but also make you feel confident and comfortable.

Feminine Hygiene Products

Another tip for business travel is to prepare a separate bag for feminine products to toss into your bag during your overnight work trip and make sure they are sufficient for any circumstance, especially for emergency supplies. This bag can also hold things like hand sanitizer, band-aid, a nail repair kit, and other personal items.

Medication Box

An important essential category is a pill box with your daily doses and maybe extra if you're being treated for an infection/disease. Whatever you decide, keep your pills in their own bag for easy access. Don’t forget to include ibuprofen or aspirin.

Eye care essentials when travelling is of importance whether it involves day-to-day care or if an emergency arises. To avoid eye related problems while on the road, it’s a good idea to bring along essentials such as eye drops, packets of lid cleansing wipes, an extra pair of glasses or contact lens, and a good pair of sunglasses. The same goes for eye drops and allergy/cold medication in case your eyes get dry or irritated.

Battery Charger

It’s easy to forget about your charger when you’re preparing your luggage, which is definitely a terrible mistake — especially when you see their price in airports and at some local stores when you want to buy an extra one. Therefore, it’s best to keep this item on the permanent packing list and never leave home without it. And make sure to regularly recharge your emergency battery so it's always available.

In-flight Entertainment

Whether you’re a regular business traveller or not, it can always be tiresome and gruelling to endure long flights and delays, especially when you have nothing to pass the time. To avoid that, you may want to consider bringing travel-friendly e-readers for movies, games, or books to optimise your waiting time.

Proper packing is the key to a carefree journey. Image from Unsplash

The Essentials Business Trip Checklist For Men

Preparing for an important occasion such as a business trip can be extremely stressful for us men- especially when it comes to packing. At some point you will still find yourself losing sight of the essential items you need to travel with or leave behind an important essential item only to regret it later on. To deal with that, we have made a handy business packing checklist for you guys to leave the house confidently and feel like a travel pro on your next vacation.

The first things you must have in your backpack should be your identification card, driver’s licence, a boarding pass and a valid passport. Without these necessities, you won’t meet the airline requirement or be able to head anywhere but home, so it’s crucial to organise these important documents at home beforehand. 

Electronics

For modern business people, most of their work is connected with electronic devices, i.e., mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and other necessary devices. So it’s better not to leave home without these essentials as well as their chargers if you want your trip to be smooth and successful.

First aid kit and other medication essentials

A small bag with the most necessary pills and medicine is indispensable for every business traveller. You wouldn’t want to find yourself suffering a migraine trigger, high-climate fever, upset stomach or all three of them running hand in hand during your journey, not to mention medicines in the country you are visiting may be limited to prescription only. It’s best to keep a domestic remedy for your ailments at hand to prevent any inconvenience during your travel.

Kindle or book

If you’re in for a long trip and experience delays at the airports, it’s best to entertain yourself by brushing up on some of the latest best selling hits or classical novels as reading will make the time go faster. As the saying goes, “a book a day keeps the boredom away” – so bring them on board!

Pen and notebook?

YES. Another seem-to-be pesky space-filler, yet you may find yourself looking for it later on. Who knows when you will come up with a new idea? Or, when you might need to jot down some important information quickly? Keeping these accessible essentials in your backpack for more convenient travelling.

Step by step for business trip packing

For those times when we don’t really know what to bring on our journey, here are seven simple steps that may help you curb packing problems and make wiser choices with your preparation.

It may seem obvious and boring, yet it’s never a redundancy to plan everything beforehand and have information about the locations you would like to see or things you would like to buy by studying in advance. When you fully make sure about the road plan and meeting information, you will save plenty of time for yourself and find the gateway to a stress-free holiday. 

Prepare a grab-and-go toiletry bag

While in a rush for a last-minute business trip and trying to get everything done as soon as possible, people tend to forget some of the essential items such as toothbrush, razor, deodorant or cotton pads, even those that should be obvious. To deal with that, we suggest you get a small bag designed for toiletries packing and fill it with all the essential things only as much as you’ll need for your trip and nothing more. It won't solve all your problems, but it crosses one major packing headache off the list.

Categorise your essentials

No matter where you go, there will always be so many things to remember. That’s why separating your essentials with desires should be a must whenever you’re about to hit the road. This will lessen the hustle of thinking long and hard about what you need to bring with you while also ensuring an enjoyable business trip.

Check the weather forecast while packing clothes

Depending on where you’re going, checking weather forecasts in advance can really do you good by giving you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. Look for the day before you fly and pack accordingly so your trip will be as smooth and cosy as possible.

Choose functional and wrinkle-free attire

Be selective about which clothing to take and packing fewer yet extremely functional items can save you a lot of space in your suitcase, especially when you plan to wear them more than once. And do not forget to check the weather conditions of your destination and pack accordingly to ensure an ideal and comfortable business travel experience.

Save bag space for all your holiday purchases

When travelling, you're likely to come back from almost every trip with a bottle of wine, cosmetic items or specialty products as a souvenir to share with friends and family. Therefore, we recommend keeping everything at a minimum or using travel-size products to save extra luggage room for your trip back home. Packing light and using rolling technique is also a good way to to maximise space! 

Double check

Last but not least, double-check your business trip packing list again to make sure you have everything you need. Your packing list won't do you any good if you don't check it before you leave!

Sort your stuff out. Image from Unsplash

The Best CabinZero Backpack for The Best Business Trip

When you’re on a business trip, it’s important to pick the right backpack and pack smart, so you won’t have to feel like it’s weighing you down. There are so many backpacks out there, so picking the right one for yourself can be pretty much a problem, especially when you have neither time nor experience in this type of shopping. So where do you even start?

The first thing to do when you’re trying to make a decision is to figure out what you really need. Here's our breakdown of questions to ask yourself when it comes to baggage selection:

• How long your trip will be
• Which form of transport you’re taking
• How much you pack
• What is the expected carry-on bag dimensions

Well, to save money and time on looking for suitable luggage, consider reaching out to our trusted products. Here at CabinZero, it is our priority to advocate for our clients with our versatile, minimalist and lightweight travel backpacks and packing cubes. Visit our website to see some of the best backpacks and packing cubes, designed to accompany you on your business travel. 

Elegant, comfortable, and water-resistant, the Classic CABINZERO in four different colours features the highest quality of a zero-hassle travel bag that you wouldn’t want to miss. This classic backpack - which is available in 28L, 36L and 44L - is perfectly suitable for constant business travellers as you are.

CabinZero packing cubes would also be an excellent choice to help you get organised overnight work trips! The packing cubes are perfectly sized to fit inside our 44L, 36L and 28L bags, helping you to pack neatly and efficiently. What is more, you can also organise your clothes neatly and efficiently using our large packing cube. As a bonus each packing cube has a built-in global luggage tracker, powered by Okoban. So like all our other bags if you lose them there is a good chance you'll get them back.

Invest in our items for a simpler and easier journey so you never have to worry about whether your bag is good to go for any and every situation.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions for Those Who are Still Confused

Got a question? We’re here to answer! 

Here are the two top questions that we get asked the most from our beloved followers. If you don’t see your question here, drop us a line on our Contact Page.

What should I pack for a 4-day business trip?

When packing for a work trip, you may want to consider using a carry-on-sized bag plus a hand luggage to store your personal items as well as your laptop. 

And to provide a clear picture of which items to include in your business trip packing list, here’s an example checklist of the things to prepare for both men and women if you’re about to hit the road for about 4 to 5 days.

• Passport or ID
• Visa, boarding pass
• Driver’s licence
• Credit card and checking card
• Cash, various bill values
• Plane tickets or print out confirmation
• Hotel reservations with address and phone number
• Driving directions and local taxi phone number

Formal and business attire

• 1 suit or blazer
• 2 dress shirts
• 1 casual shirt
• 2 pair of dress pants and slacks
• 2 dark matching colour socks
• 3 pairs of underwear.
• 1-2 pairs of shoes (one dress pair and one athletic)
• 1 pair of sandals or flip flops
• 1-2 jewellery and watches
•  1  business suit
• 2 pant suit or skirts
• 2 high heels and 1 pair of sandals 
• 3-4 Jewellery and watches

Casual and swimwear

• 1 tank tops
• 1 scarf and pair of gloves

Essential toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and mouthwash
• Razor, shaving cream and aftershave
• Sunscreen and moisturiser
• Hair gel, hair clay and comb

Entertainment Essentials

• Laptop with charger and laptop bag
• Pens, pencils and notepad
• Kindle or a book

What should I not forget on a business trip?

If you’re still worried that you may miss something while packing your luggage, check out our list of indispensable items as you pack for your next corporate travel endeavour.

First thing first, make sure to check your passport, ID or other requisite documents prior to your long work trip. This will help you avoid nightmarish scenarios such as not being able to get on the plane and miss out on important travel business.  

Chargers and Charger Cables

In a technology-driven modern society, every task is connected to phones, computers, laptops, or tablets for email checking, meeting arrangement and data storage. Without these devices working properly, we would not be able to do the work that we are likely travelling for. With that being said, it’s a must to keep a charger cable compatible with each of your devices on hand at all times. This way you can have the devices available whenever you need.

Business Card

One of the main purposes of business trips is to establish new business contacts with new people and to look for new opportunities. Therefore, you should never forget to take plenty of your business cards with you so they are easily accessible during the day.

Hand sanitizer

Chances are you will be seeing lots of new faces and shaking people’s hands on a business trip. It’s best to keep a hand sanitizer close by to avoid getting sick, especially when there is the pandemic of coronavirus looming over our heads.

It might take time and effort to get used to these arrangements, but you can do it.

Business travelling can be a life-altering experience and certain elements are required for the business to be smooth, and it all starts with packing your stuff the right way. If you're planning a business trip soon and are stressed about preparing, the recommendations above are what we have found to be the most useful for business travellers to lessen the hustle of or overthinking and overpacking, as well as to save you money in the long run. In addition, other elements are also recommended according to your interests to make the journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Phuong Nguyen

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Business Trip Packing List: Checklist for Stress-Free Travel

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 12 minutes to read

Sample Checklist to Help Organize Your Business Travel Packing

Business travel packing checklist.

Carry-On Essentials: – Passport/ID and travel documents (e.g., visas, travel insurance, itineraries) – Wallet (credit cards, cash, frequent flyer cards) – Mobile phone and charger – Laptop/tablet and charger – Earphones or noise-cancelling headphones – Portable power bank – Travel pillow and eye mask – Reading material or e-reader – Pen and notepad – Business cards – Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes – Face masks – Essential medications and a small first aid kit – Snacks and a refillable water bottle – Travel-sized toiletries (in compliance with TSA liquid rules if flying) – Change of clothes (in case of luggage delays)

Clothing: – Suits or business attire for the number of workdays – Business casual outfits for less formal meetings or dinners – Dress shirts or blouses – Ties or scarves – Belts – Undergarments and socks – Sleepwear – Casual clothes for off-duty hours – Workout clothes and athletic shoes – Comfortable walking shoes for business – Dress shoes – Light jacket or coat (depending on weather) – Sweater or cardigan for layering – Swimsuit (if applicable)

Toiletries: – Toothbrush and toothpaste – Shaving supplies – Deodorant – Hairbrush or comb – Shampoo and conditioner – Body wash or soap – Moisturizer and skincare products – Makeup and makeup remover – Hair styling products and tools (e.g., hair dryer, straightener) – Sunscreen (if appropriate) – Insect repellent (if traveling to a location with mosquitoes or bugs)

Tech and Accessories: – International adapters or converters (for overseas travel) – USB cables and portable USB hub – HDMI or VGA cables for presentations – Portable Wi-Fi hotspot or Ethernet cable (if needed) – Camera (if not using a smartphone)

Other Items: – Umbrella or raincoat – Sunglasses – Travel sewing kit – Laundry bag – Collapsible tote bag for day trips or extra items

Additional Items to Consider:

Office Supplies: – Highlighters and markers – Stapler and staples – Paper clips and binder clips – Folders or document organizer – Envelopes and stamps (for mailing documents)

Health and Wellness: – Vitamins and supplements – Prescription glasses or contact lenses and solution – Sleep aids (e.g., melatonin or prescribed medication) – Pain relievers and fever reducers – Motion sickness medicine (if applicable)

Entertainment: – Playing cards or small travel games – Travel guidebooks and maps – Language phrasebook or translation app (for international travel)

Security Items: – Luggage locks (TSA-approved for air travel) – Money belt or neck wallet – Photocopies or digital copies of important documents (in a separate location from originals)

Travel Comfort: – Compact blanket or travel throw – Compression socks (for long flights)

Personal Items: – Jewelry and watches (keep to a minimum for security) – Glasses and sunglasses case

(When planning your business trip, consider the climate and cultural norms of your destination. Researching the weather can help you pack accordingly.)

Essentials for Every Business Trip

Travel documents.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, such as:

• Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
• Visas: Check whether you need a visa for the country you’re visiting and apply well in advance.
• Driver’s License: Carry it with you, especially if you plan to rent a car during your trip.
• Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events like accidents, flight cancellations, and lost luggage by getting travel insurance.
• Itinerary & Flights: Print or save your itinerary, along with your flight details and boarding passes.

Travel Gear

The right gear can make all the difference in keeping you organized and comfortable during your business trip:

• Carry-On Luggage: Opt for a high-quality, lightweight luggage piece that fits airline specifications.
• Packing Cubes: Use these to keep your clothes sorted and wrinkle-free.
• Comfort Items: Pack a travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs for more pleasant flights.
• Toiletry Bag: Choose a clear, TSA-approved bag for hassle-free security checks.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing your own refillable water bottle.

Electronics & Accessories

You’ll need your devices and gadgets to stay connected and productive:

• Laptop & Charger: Don’t forget your workhorse, along with a suitable charger.
• Smartphone & Charger: Keep your phone charged with the right cable and plug.
• Power Bank: A portable charger can save you from your devices dying when you need them the most.
• Adapters & Converters: Double-check what type of plug/socket is used at your destination and pack the appropriate adapters.
• Noise-Canceling Headphones: These help you focus and reduce stress on noisy flights or in busy environments.

Health & Hygiene Items

Taking care of your well-being while traveling is paramount:

• Hand Sanitizer & Wipes: Keep germs at bay by regularly sanitizing your hands and wiping down surfaces.
• Face Masks: Bring a few comfortable and breathable face masks for use on public transport and in crowded spaces.
• First-Aid Kit: Take a compact first-aid kit with essential items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
• Personal Toiletries: Bring travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and so on to maintain your routine.
• Packable Laundry Bag: Separate your dirty clothes from the clean ones with a foldable laundry bag.

Packing for Professional Needs

Attire planning.

When packing for a business trip, consider the dress code of your destination. If the trip involves formal meetings or conferences, pack suits or blazers, dress pants or skirts, dress shirts or blouses, and ties or scarves. Don’t forget comfortable yet stylish shoes to match your outfits. It’s also a good idea to bring a few casual outfits for downtime or less formal events.

Tips for packing clothes :

• Choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
• Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize ironing.
• Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save space.
• Pack a small laundry bag for used garments.

Climate-aware packing

No one wants to be caught off-guard by unexpected weather changes. So, here’s a quick list to help you pack:

• Cold weather : Warm coat, sweaters, long sleeve shirts, thermal wear, gloves, woolen socks, and waterproof shoes
• Warm weather : Light clothes, short sleeve shirts, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses
• Rainy weather : Waterproof jacket, umbrella, and waterproof shoes

Don’t forget to check for any extreme weather conditions or seasonal changes while packing.

Dressing for cultural norms

Consider the local guidelines of your destination’s dress code, especially if they differ from your own. Some countries have strict cultural dress codes that you’ll need to follow to show respect and avoid offending locals. For example, if you’re visiting a conservative country, you might need to avoid revealing clothes and pack more modest attire.

To help with understanding cultural norms, here are a few considerations:

• Business meetings : When attending business meetings, you must wear formal or semi-formal clothing, unless specified otherwise.
• Site visits : If your trip involves visiting certain venues or work sites, make sure to pack any required safety gear or specific clothing in your luggage.
• Social events : Understand the dress code for any social events you’ll be attending, like galas or networking activities, and pack appropriate attire.
• Religious sites : When visiting religious sites, it’s vital to show respect by dressing modestly and following their specific guidelines.

Work Equipment Necessities

Besides your clothes, you’ll need to pack essential work equipment. Ensure you have your laptop, charger, smartphone, and any necessary accessories, like a portable mouse or USB drive. Don’t forget power adapters if you’re traveling internationally.

Here’s a checklist of work-related items to pack:

• Laptop and charger
• Smartphone and charger
• Portable power bank
• International power adapter
• Earbuds or noise-cancelling headphones
• Small notebook and pen
• Business cards
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspot (optional)

Smart Packing Techniques

Layered packing.

One great way to pack efficiently is by using the layered packing technique. Start with heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, then work your way up with lighter items. For example, place shoes, toiletry bags, and heavy electronics first, followed by clothing layers like jeans and jackets. Finally, place lighter items like shirts, underwear, and accessories on top. This method helps to distribute the weight of your items evenly and prevent delicate items from being crushed.

Rolling vs Folding

When it comes to packing clothes, the age-old debate is often between rolling and folding . Both methods have their merits, but we recommend giving rolling a try. Rolling your clothes saves space and helps to prevent wrinkles. To roll your clothes, lay each item flat, fold it in half, then roll it tightly from the bottom up. Rolling works best for lightweight and wrinkle-prone items like t-shirts, dresses, and blouses. However, for bulkier items like jeans and sweaters, folding may work better and provide a neater appearance in your suitcase.

Utilizing Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are another fantastic tool for keeping your belongings organized and compact. These lightweight and durable cubes come in various sizes and can be used to separate different types of items. For example, you can use one cube for your shirts, another for pants, and another for accessories. They make it easy to locate items quickly and help keep everything tidy throughout your trip. You can even color-coordinate your packing cubes for an extra level of organization.

Staying Organized on the Move

Packing for a business trip requires careful planning and organization to ensure a smooth experience. Here are some tips and examples to help you stay organized while traveling for work:

1. Create a packing list: Before you begin packing, create a comprehensive packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essential items. Include clothing, toiletries, electronics, work-related items, and travel documents. You can save time by keeping a digital list that you can reference and update for each trip.

2. Use packing cubes: Invest in a set of packing cubes to help keep your belongings organized within your suitcase. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags that come in various sizes, making it easy to sort your clothes and accessories efficiently.

3. Roll your clothes: To save space and keep your clothes wrinkle-free, consider rolling your attire instead of folding them. Rolled clothing takes up less space and helps prevent wrinkles, which is especially important for business attire.

4. Limit your footwear: Shoes can be bulky and take up a lot of space in your suitcase, so it’s beneficial to minimize the number of pairs you bring on your trip. Aim to bring two versatile pairs of shoes – one for formal meetings or events and another for casual outings.

5. Keep your essentials in your carry-on: Prepare for unexpected scenarios, such as lost or delayed luggage, by keeping your essential items in your carry-on bag. These items include important documents, medication, a change of clothes, and any items you might need to work during your flight.

6. Organize your electronics: Use a small organizer or pouch to keep your electronic accessories, such as charging cables, adapters, and headphones, in one place to prevent them from getting tangled or misplaced.

Coping with Common Travel Hurdles

• Lost luggage? First thing’s first, make sure you pack a small bag with essentials (like toiletries, important documents, and a change of clothes) and keep it with you as a carry-on. This way, even if your main luggage gets lost, you’ll still have your most crucial items with you.
• Jet lag got you down? Stay hydrated, and try to get on local time as quickly as possible. Drinking plenty of water during and after the flight can combat dehydration, a stealthy contributor to jet lag. To help you adjust faster, expose yourself to daylight for brief periods and focus on getting a good night’s sleep.
• Wrinkled clothes? Pack smart by rolling clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and helps reduce wrinkles. Invest in a decent travel-size garment steamer or carry wrinkle-release spray to keep your clothes looking fresh and professional upon arrival.
• Forgot an adapter? Make a mental note to pack a universal adapter for all your electronic devices, so you don’t have to stress when it’s time to charge. In case you forget, don’t panic! Most hotels will have adapters available for guests to use or purchase.
• Managing expenses: Keep track of all your receipts and expenses on the go. Take photos of receipts with your phone and use an app to help you organize them. It will simplify the reimbursement process and save you the headache of managing slips of paper.
• Feeling under the weather? It can happen, especially with all the stress and germs hiding in airports and airplanes. Make sure to pack a small first-aid kit with the most commonly used over-the-counter medications, band-aids, and antibacterial wipes or gel for quick sanitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essentials to include in a 2-day or 3-day business trip packing list.

For a short business trip, you should focus on the essentials. Pack a few clothing items appropriate for your meetings, such as suits, blouses, or dress shirts, and versatile pants or skirts. Bring undergarments, sleepwear, and a spare change of casual clothes for non-business activities. Don’t forget your toiletries, chargers, and any essential medications. Keep travel documents handy and consider a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

What items should women consider while packing for a 4-day work trip?

For a 4-day work trip, women should pack clothing items that can be mixed and matched, like blazers, skirts, or pants in neutral colors. Include a few blouses or tops to complement the bottoms. Comfortable shoes for walking, as well as a pair of dressier shoes for meetings, are also important. Be sure to pack makeup, personal hygiene items, and any additional accessories (like tights or scarves) to complete your outfits.

How can you effectively pack for a 10-day business trip?

When going for a longer trip, consider packing clothing items in a color palette that can be easily mixed and matched. Bring enough undergarments and sleepwear for each day and plan to do laundry if needed. Include casual clothes for downtime, workout gear if applicable, and a lightweight jacket for fluctuating temperatures. Keep all your essentials – toiletries, chargers, medications – in a separate small bag, so they’re easy to access.

What are some helpful tips for packing light on a 1-week work trip?

To pack light for a 1-week work trip, use packing cubes or compression bags to save space and organize your suitcase. Stick to a minimal, neutral wardrobe that can be mixed and matched, and choose versatile shoes that work with multiple outfits. Select travel-sized toiletries to reduce bulk, and consider doing laundry at your destination if needed.

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• Business Trip Packing List: What to Pack When You Travel for Work

What do I need to bring on my business trip ? 

No matter how often you travel for work, you’re bound to forget something if you don’t plan ahead. Even if you travel a lot for work, getting ready for your business trip sometimes falls to the bottom of your to-do list.

This business trip packing list is designed to help you leave the stress at home and pack only what you need to have a more relaxed work trip.

Here’s how this list is broken down:

30+ Things to Pack on Your Next Business Trip:

How to pack for a business trip, work essentials.

• Phone charger
• Laptop or tablet charger
• Portable charger
• Headphones 

When traveling for work, your laptop is your life. But just because it's filled to maximum storage capacity with your work doesn’t mean it has to be big and bulky. Upgrading to a lightweight laptop can make business packing easier by saving you space in your carry-on.

Your carry-on bag will be lighter without a heavy laptop weighing it down. 

Top pick: Apple MacBook Air Runner up: Huawei Matebook 13

Save space on your tray table by investing in a tablet for your business trips. Tablets are a portable laptop alternative and you can even purchase an attachable keyboard for additional typing. 

Tablets can slide in and out of any pocket with ease so you won’t have to dig through a packed carry-on searching for it. You’ll have most of the functions of a laptop with quicker storage and more room to spread out.  

Top pick : Amazon Fire HD 8 Runner up : Apple Ipad

Device Chargers and Portable Chargers

Be sure to bring your device’s charger with you so you can plug in at the airport or on the plane. 

If you’re stranded without electricity, portable chargers are the power move you need. Bring one or two charged up and ready to go in case you’re in a pinch without a place to plugin. 

Top pick: Anker PowerCore 20100mAh Runner up: Anker PowerCore 10000

Office Supplies 

There’s plenty of technology out there, but it doesn’t always work when we want it to. Be prepared for a wifi outage or malfunctioning electronics by bringing a spare pen and notebook with you on your flight. These tools are timeless and they can save you when your electronics are having an off day. 

Office supplies are also helpful if you need to jot something down quickly during takeoff or landing when it's time to power down your larger electronics. 

Noise Canceling Headphones

From crying babies to loud aircraft noises, flying can be noisy. You don’t want to be distracted from your work or miss out on sleep because you can’t focus.  

Noise-canceling headphones block out the stress around you and give you the chance to sleep on your flight . Invest in a pair if you prefer to have peace and quiet when you travel for work. 

Top tech pick ($$$) : Bose QuietComfort 35 Runner up ($$): Sony WH-CH700N Bluetooth Noise Canceling Budget pick ($): COWIN E7 Noise Cancelling Headphones

Travel Documents

• Passport wallet 
• Boarding pass 
• Hotel and car rental reservations

Passport and Photo ID

Don’t leave the house without at least one of these! You wouldn’t want to get to the front of the line at security and realize you left your passport or license on the desk at home. 

Your passport is especially important and essential for international travel, so keep it in a safe place at all times. Invest in a passport wallet if you want to keep everything together in an easy to access carrying case.  

Boarding Passes

Your boarding pass is your ticket to your next destination so be sure to keep track of it. 

Luckily, most airline apps keep track of that boarding pass for you so you can have it ready to go on your mobile device. If you have an iPhone, you could also save your mobile boarding pass to your Apple Wallet for easy access before take-off. 

Hotel and Rental Car Reservations

Confirmation numbers are key when it comes time to check-in for your hotel or to grab the keys to your rental car. Keeping track of those numbers and reservations isn’t always easy.

For quick access and to maintain organization on your trip, print out each confirmation you book and place them into a folder. It might seem old-school, but it’s effective. 

If you’re more of a digital person, you can download TripIt . This app keeps all of your travel plans organized in one place by automatically combing your email for your trip information meaning you won’t have to lift a finger to find what you need.

Clothing & Footwear

Finding a balance between style and comfort is the main goal when packing your clothes for a business trip . You want to look your best discussing topics at the meeting and feel your best reclining in your chair inflight. 

You also want to pack some more casual clothing for your time off! Even if you only have a few hours to yourself in your destination, you don't want to be stuck exploring in your best business casual.

Stow away some beach gear if you're headed to a warm, tropical destination ( Aruba , Bonaire or Curaçao anyone?), or some jeans and your favorite comfy shoes if you're off to a city. 

Here’s a breakdown of typical business attire to help you tailor your wardrobe to your travel needs.  

• Outerwear jacket 
• Shirts and blouses
• Business casual pants and skirts
• Comfortable pants (yoga pants, joggers) 
• Dress shoes
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Portable steamer or iron

Jackets & Blazers

Jackets and blazers are business essentials so bring at least one. Choose a dark, solid color that won’t clash with the rest of our outfits. 

Blazers and jackets are typically stiff but you can find some that are made with stretchable, more comfortable fabric. When you pack your jacket or blazer, be extra careful when folding it into your carry on to prevent wrinkles.

Shirts & Blouses

Keep it simple when you’re traveling by bringing only two choices of tops besides the one you wear on your flight. You don’t want to bog down your mind or your carry-on with too many choices. 

Choose tops that make you look and feel most comfortable when you’re at work. Prioritize wrinkle-resistant shirts and blouses. First impressions are stressful enough without worrying if your top looks like it could use and ironing.

As with tops, limit the pants and skirts you bring with you in your carry-on. At most, bring a pair to change into in case there’s an accidental tear or stain. Investing in bottoms that are dark in color or made from stain-resistant material will save you the stress if you spill coffee on a bumpy flight. 

You might not be able to wear sweatpants or yoga pants, but you can still wear bottoms that are made from stretchable material to make yourself more comfortable on your flight.  

Recommendation: Lululemon’s On the Fly collection

You’ll be walking and standing a lot when you travel, so do your feet a favor and give them a little extra support. Trade in the heels and tight dress shoes for relaxed fits and extra arch support footwear. Many shoe brands like Clarks and Wolf & Sheppard specialize in stylish shoes that are comfortable too. It’s a small change to your wardrobe, but you’ll feel better when you finish your day without needing a foot massage.

Limit yourself to packing only  two pairs of shoes to maximize carry-on space.

You had a long day so unwind with a cozy change of clothes. It might be time for bed, but a smart way to pack pajamas is to make them multi-purpose.

Instead of a button down shirt made of silk, opt for lounge wear clothing that you could also wear in public in case something unexpected happens to your business attire or if you just want to go all in on comfort for your flight home. 

Underwear & Socks 

They call them unmentionables, but we definitely need to mention them when it comes to travel. Bring a change of underwear for your carry-on. 

You never know what could happen so being able to freshen up when you feel uncomfortable is worth throwing in a few extra pairs of undies. 

Plus, don’t forget your socks!

Portable Steamer

You might pull the shirt you planned to wear out of your suitcase to see it’s a wrinkled mess. Wrinkled clothing is a nightmare when you have a presentation to give or when you have to make a first impression. 

While most hotel rooms have their own irons, setting up the ironing board and being sure the iron isn’t too hot is very time consuming. Plus, you don’t want to accidently put a burn in the only good shirt you brought with you!

With a portable steamer all you need is a little water and you can steam out those wrinkles in seconds. 

Top pick: iSteam Steamer for Clothes Runner up: Steamfast SF-717 Mini Steam Iron

Keeping up with your typical hygiene routine is essential for traveling. Pack what you use on a regular basis to help you feel more at home while on the road. Here’s a list of some every-day hygiene products that you’ll want to pack with you in your toiletries bag. 

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Facial cleanser
• Conditioner
• Moisturizer 
• Nail clippers 
• Zip-Lock plastic bags
• Stain remover pen 
• Hair tools (flat or curling iron, dryer). 

Most security checkpoints require that you limit your liquids to 3oz or less. When packing your toiletries, pack travel size liquids so you don’t get stopped at security and waste time opening your suitcase searching for the liquid you’ll have to throw in the trash. 

Recommendation: Silicon Travel Toiletry bottles. They’re TSA approved and perfect for storing shampoo and conditioner. 

Always bring a couple of large freezer plastic bags with you to pack liquids in. This will help you avoid your luggage becoming a massive mess!

Health & Wellness

• Gym clothes
• Drawstring bag
• Vitamins and supplements 
• Flight Elixir
• Travel first aid kit 
• Sleep mask 
• A portable white noise machine 
• Essential oils 

Gym Clothes

Getting work done and working out after could be part of your daily routine at home. Don’t sacrifice your routine just because you’re not at your regular gym. 

You might have some extra time on your trip to visit the hotel gym or to finish a quick in-room workout routine. If you think you’ll be able to sneak in a quick workout, you’ll want to have your athletic clothes and shoes with you. 

These clothes can get sweaty so we recommend bringing a small drawstring bag to separate these clothes from your clean business attire in your carry-on.

Vitamins and Supplements 

Your body goes through a lot of changes when you fly ,  so you’ll want to keep vitamins and other supplements on hand if you need a boost. 

A package of FLIGHTFUD’s Flight Elixir is a superfood drink mix that helps you replenish your body while on the go. The elixir is easy to store in your carry-on and can help your body with hydration, circulation , bloating and digestion , cosmic radiation and the harmful  effects of jet lag .  

Travel First Aid Kit 

Unexpected illnesses are tough enough when you’re in the comfort of your own home. When you’re traveling, these aches and pains can be extra annoying because you don’t have your home remedies on hand.

 You might not be able to bring the medicine cabinet with you, but you can make your own travel first aid kit by filling a small bag with items such as aspirin, Sudafed, cough drops, and vitamins. 

Throw some extra Flight Elixir into your carry-on to boost your immunity throughout your trip so you don’t get sick in the first place!

Travel Sleep Essentials 

There’s nothing like jet lag to hinder your productivity and knock you off your game on a business trip. 

Bring some travel sleep essentials to avoid suffering more than you need to. Bring a sleep mask, earplugs, and portable white noise machine if you don’t have the ability to use your phone.  

Essential Oils 

Essential oils can treat everything from headaches to stress, and they’re a great natural remedy to many travel ailments. Many of these oils can support your well-being while flying and mitigate jet lag’s effects. 

Bring 1-2 bottles of your favorite essential oils for relaxation or rejuvenation. Try scents with lavender to promote relaxation, peppermint or citrus to energize, and wood scents like pine to help manage anxiety.

Top pick : Altitude Oil

Food & Drink

• Healthy snacks
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel lunch box

Healthy Snacks

Healthy food isn't always available at the airport so don’t sacrifice your health for convenience and bring whole-food, easy to pack snacks with you. 

Here are some quick and healthy snacks to throw in your carry-on:

• Sliced fruits and vegetables
• Energy bars (focus on the ones with real ingredients like Larabar )
• Trail mix or assorted nuts like almonds, macadamia nuts, or cashews. 
• Nut butter to-go pouches.
• Meat sticks and jerky.
• Sliced fruit and vegetables.
• Cheese and flaxseed crackers. 

Flying can already have negative impacts on your health so try and combat those with the right food for a healthy diet. 

Reusable Travel Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is an important part of travel, but constantly purchasing water at the airport can hurt your wallet and the planet.

Instead of worrying about when and where to get your daily dose of water, bring a reusable water bottle with you in your carry-on. 

Top pick: Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle Runner up: Collapsible Silicone Water Bottles

Travel Lunchbox

If you meal prep and want to pack your regular lunches with you on the go, a portable lunchbox is a good investment in your health. Save your snacks from going bad by packing your fruits and veggies in a small travel lunchbox. 

Most travel lunch boxes are light and can even roll up to take up less space in your already crowded bag. Look for some that are insulated and waterproof for extra protection on the go. 

Top pick: Srise Lunch Bag Insulated Lunch Box Meal Prep Lunch Tote Boxes For Men and Women Runner up: UPPER ORDER Durable Insulated Lunch Box Tote Reusable Cooler Bag 

• Rewards cards 
• Folder for expense receipts 

Rewards Card

Many airlines and hotels offer rewards for travelers who use their frequent flyer credit cards. Bring your card with you and swipe it to earn more miles, discounts, and other extra perks that could help you on your next trip. 

You’ll want to have that rewards card with you inflight as well because some airlines offer discounts on inflight purchases as well. 

Folder for Expense Receipts

As high tech as the world is nowadays, you’ll still run into a lot of paper receipts when you make a purchase on your business trip. You’ll need those records to keep track of your business spending so it’s important not to lose them. 

Pack a small folder with you to slip your receipts into instead of crumpling them in your pocket where they could get lost.  

Entertainment

• Book or Kindle

Books and Magazines

You might want a break from those dense work files for something lighter and more entertaining. A small book or a magazine is easy to pack and doesn’t take up much space in your carry-on. 

These are both great options if the inflight entertainment on your flight doesn’t work or if your other electronics lose power. 

Relax, recline, and tune out the rest of the world by listening to your favorite playlist. Music is a great way to unwind after a busy morning spent getting to the airport, going through security, and boarding your flight.

A music hack for the frequent traveler is to download your Spotify playlist beforehand,  which lets you play your favorite songs even when your device is in airplane mode. 

Pack Your Bags and Go

You’ve got a lot to do for your trip, so take the stress out of packing by using these hacks and our checklist.

Is there something you like to bring to stay organized on your trip? What is your personal packing hack you’d like to share? Is there anything you think we missed? Let us know how you pack your bags in the comments below.  

Check out : 22+ Business Travel Tips & Hacks for Frequent Corporate Flyers

Kristine Auble

So what we need to do is to come to the theme section in the online store, go to the "Customize" option, click on the upper menu and select "Product pages". In this section, you can see there's a product recommendation option

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August 24, 2023

The Professional’s Guide to Packing for a Business Trip

Who doesn't want an excuse to travel.

Business trips are a great way to meet new people and expand your professional network. Plus, they're a good opportunity to explore a new locale—depending on your line of work and your employer, you might not even have to pay for your flight or hotel. But business travel can also be stressful, especially if you’re not prepared.

The key to smooth business travel is planning ahead and using a comprehensive business trip packing list.

Business Travel Packing List Essentials

Knowing what items you need to pack beforehand helps ensure that you don’t leave anything important behind and are fully prepared for the journey ahead.

When it comes to packing for a business trip, the most important thing you need to consider is what type of clothing to bring. Generally, that means you'll need to pack two categories of clothing: business attire for work-related events and casual clothing that you'd bring with you on any other trip.

Professional and Business Casual

• Suit jacket and/or blazer
• Blouses and/or dress shirts
• Pants and/or skirts
• Cardigan sweaters
• Belts & accessories (jewelry, watches, etc.)
• Dress shoes

Other Essential Clothing Items

• Light jacket or sweatshirt
• Workout clothes
• Socks and underwear
• Tennis shoes
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hair styling products (e.g., hairspray, gel, etc.)
• Razor and shaving cream/gel
• Makeup, brushes, and applicators
• Deodorant or antiperspirant
• Contact lenses & solution

Electronics

• Laptop and charging cable
• Portable charger
• Portable power bank/charger
• Portable WiFI router/hotspot
• USB cables and adapters
• External hard drives or flash drives
• Tablet or e-reader

3 Packing Tips For A Smooth Business Trip

No matter how much you love to travel, business trips can be stressful. On top of all of the regular travel stressors, you have work responsibilities to consider. And that means arriving on time and looking professional. While nothing can stop a delayed flight or missed connection, you can avoid other problems, like lost or damaged items and wrinkled clothes, by following the business travel tips we’ve outlined below.

1. Store important items in your carry-on

If you can, it's best to avoid checking a bag by packing everything in your carry-on. But if you must check your luggage, make sure you pack the most items in your carry-on bag .

Last year, lost baggage claims increased by 30% —and the more often you travel, the greater your risk of mishandled or lost luggage. This is a major inconvenience if you're on vacation. But if you're traveling for business, a missing suitcase can lead to disaster.

If all of your clothing is in your checked bag and the airline loses it, you won't have appropriate clothing to wear to conferences and other events during your trip. Depending on the expectations of the industry you work in this may not be a big concern. But it can still create uncomfortable situations, especially if you're hoping to make a good impression.

You know what items you'll need most during your business trip—but if you're packing in a hurry, it can be easy to forget things. Double-check your carry-on packing list and make sure it includes these essential items:

• At least three professional outfits you can wear to work-related events. Airlines find most lost luggage, but it can take as long as three weeks , by which time you might already be back home.
• Your laptop —as a work essential, you can't afford to lose your laptop. Plus, most airlines advise against packing electronic devices in checked bags to avoid damage from mishandling. But packing electronics in your carry-on doesn't guarantee their safety, which is why it's always a good idea to use a protective laptop sleeve .
• Travel documents are a no-brainer for your packing list. But if you're packing in a hurry, it's easy to leave things like your passport or boarding pass on the kitchen counter or forget to grab your ID out of the bag you use every day. Including these items on your packing list ensures they don't get overlooked and left at home.

2. Roll, don’t fold, your clothes

We always advise rolling your clothes to help save space in your bag. But we especially recommend it for business travel because it helps you avoid wrinkled clothes that can make a well-planned outfit look like a last-minute effort.

As a traveling professional, you're probably packing button-down shirts, jackets, and slacks—all of which are prone to wrinkling. And you don't want to wake up and iron your clothes after a long day of travel, especially if you already have a busy day planned.

Folding your clothes introduces creases that create wrinkles. And the more folds and creases, the more wrinkles you'll create. While you'll have to fold your clothes to create a rollable, rectangular shape, rolling your clothes still requires fewer creases than basic folding techniques. And that means you're less likely to have to iron your outfit before you start your workday.

3. Invest in high-quality luggage

The more you travel for work, the faster your luggage will wear, which is why it's worth the investment to buy high-quality, durable travel bags up front.

High-quality suitcases are typically made of strong, durable materials that can stand up to the wear and tear associated with frequent travel. They're also lightweight, allowing you to pack more without adding extra weight to your luggage. We recommend checking out our Travel Bags  collection to find the right fit for you.

Buying a good bag comes with other benefits as well:

• Secure storage: A sturdy suitcase will keep your items secure during transit, preventing any items from falling out or getting damaged during the trip.
• Comfort and convenience: Quality suitcases often come equipped with comfortable handles, adjustable straps, and ergonomic designs for easy handling when on the go.
• Style and variety: Good bag manufacturers think about every element of a product's design, from its function to its physical appearance. And that means you can choose from a range of stylish designs in a variety colors so you can choose one that best reflects your personal style.

Functional Luggage for Traveling Professionals

The best bag for your business trip often depends on how long you'll be gone. If you're traveling for a business meeting or conference, you'll only be gone for a few days and likely will only need a personal item and a carry-on bag. But for longer trips, you'll need a larger bag to accommodate a longer packing checklist.

For quick trips when we’re packing light, we love our Tri-Star because the built-in dividers combined with our packing cubes make it easy to organize everything in our carry-on, from our clothes to our laptop. It's also TSA-approved and incredibly versatile. We can wear it as a backpack or shoulder bag through the airport. Then for a smooth transition from the airport to a professional setting, we can switch to carrying it as a briefcase.

We also love briefcase style bags like the Pilot and Western Flyer for business travel. As a slightly smaller bag, the Pilot is the perfect size for a personal item when we fly, especially since it has just enough space for our laptop. The Western Flyer is a bit larger, but still not as big as the Tri-Star, which gives us plenty of additional space for things like an extra pair of shoes, more clothing, or promotional swag we pick up from sponsors at corporate events.

But just because these bags work for us doesn't mean you have to use them. Take a look at our full inventory of bags to find one that you like. Or let us know what bag or organizer tools you use for work trips(and why) in the comments to help fellow travelers have a smooth trip.

Matt - September 8, 2023

Hi – Just saw the email about the Trinity. Is the Tristar going away? If not, what are some reasons a person might choose one over the other? Thanks!

Andreas Demetriades - August 27, 2023

I have to agree that my Tri-Star has been a real game changer for business trips lasting 2 – 4 days. A shoulder bag in just too heavy to carry across a busy city (with multiple modes of transport involved – trains, walking, buses, subway etc.) And a rolling overnighter case becomes a hassling when wheeling along pavements, carrying up steps etc. I love the way I can carry the Tri-Star on my back – so comfortable and convenient – and the weight just disappears. And then when I reach hotel or workplace, I can tuck the straps away, and I look really smart & professional. Plus the organisation is just brilliant – a place for everything, and easy to find. When I need an additional bag, I take my Pilot or Co-Pilot – makes for a perfect combination. And when you get the bags just right, it makes the rest of trip so much more comfortable/ pleasant/ enjoyable.

tcm - August 29, 2023

I love my Aeronaut 45 and will be bringing on a 4-day work trip and packing clothes, toiletries, and a pair of shoes. I typically use it as a backpack. However, I’m looking for advice! Normally I carry a second bag – a tote bag for a book, water bottle, etc. But this time, I’m traveling for work and I’m bringing a laptop as well and I’ve been carrying that in a backpack too.

What second bag would you recommend? I could wear my work backpack and carry my Aeronaut in my hand, but I’ll be walking a lot. Should I stick with the Aeronaut as a backpack and then a tote for my laptop and all? Thanks! ——— TOM BIHN replied: Hi TCM! I would say most folks stick with their Aeronaut as a backpack and use a crossbody bag or tote as a secondary bag—the Aeronaut is usually the heaviest bag people carry, so it usually is best for more people to distribute that weight over both shoulders. If you have a smaller 13-14" laptop, that could work in a tote like the Pop Tote or a bag like the Pilot. For a bigger 15"-16" laptop, something like the Cadet would fit that larger size of laptop better.

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Here’s Your Essential Business Trip Packing List

Business Trip Packing List

A business trip packing list doesn’t have to be complicated.

I stick to conservative classics and sharp suiting for any kind of work related travel, conference or client meeting. I always remember to pack a good blazer, a comfortable flat shoe, a pair of comfortable heels and some casual basics.

And of course, these all go in a carry on suitcase !

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Best Work Wear Brands

If you’re on a budget, Ann Taylor , Club Monaco and Banana Republic routinely have sales and are a great place to shop for well made work clothes that are conservative enough for the office while still be flattering.

If you want high quality and don’t mind paying for a great dress that will last you years, I love M.M. LaFleur and Theory . Both make the most incredible fitted, slimming dresses that are chic and comfortable.

Other good quality work wear brands to check out: Tory Burch , Vince , Max Mara and Nordstrom . I usually pay more for suits and coats since a good quality one will last you years.

And then I’ll save by buying more inexpensive blouses, skirts and trousers which get worn more often and break down faster.

What to Pack For a Business Trip for Women

Business trip packing checklist.

• Classic Jewelry
• Carry On Suitcase

Packing Cubes

Portable charger, work blazer.

I have both the Theory Gabe Suit and the Theory Lanai suit and love both of them.

The Lanai blazer is “open cut” without any buttons but the blazer never flaps about and looks sharp yet distinctive. Every time I wear it, I get a nice comment from a stranger so it is definitely worth the money!

Fabric wise, they usually come in lots of different colors and textures. I get the most wear out of my dark grey one.

For those on a tighter budget, check out Ann Taylor , Banana Republic and J.Crew for solid suit options. 

Work Blazers

Browse blazers on Zappos

I love a sleek pantsuit, and swear by Theory’s blazer and pant sets .

The quality is fantastic and they typically make one style of fabric into a ton of different suit styles – oversized blazers, cropped blazers, buttoned blazers, open blazers, etc.

They do the same for the pants. So they have straight leg, boot cut, slim cropped pants and a variety of inseam lengths too.

I have different bottoms in the same suit fabric so I can mix and match and get more wear out of each item. 

Work Trousers

Browse work trousers on Zappos

Blouses & Button Downs

Personally, I think blouses are much more flattering than button down shirts for women.

The worst is when a button accidentally pops open, or if there are gaps in between the buttons. Avoid all that with a feminine, clean blouse – I stick to neutral shades like white, beige, light blue, light pink, etc.

Work Blouses & Button Downs

Browse work blouses & button downs on Zappos

I also recommend bringing a thicker cardigan for the plane or air conditioned conference rooms. A thinner cardigan can fit under a blazer or a thicker, structured cardigan can replace a suit jacket.

Work Cardigans

Browse work cardigans on Zappos

Dresses are my favorite thing to wear for work since they fit the “conservative corporate office environment, but are much the most comfortable to wear on long days.

I also find it easier shopping for dresses, then finding trousers that will fit! 

Work Dresses

Browse work dresses on Zappos

I recommend packing comfortable flats for the plane and heels.

If you can fit it, I would bring a low heel that can last you all day (something around 2-3 inches) and a taller heel for that ‘power look’ when you have a client meeting.

My go to flats for work are by Ferragamo – classic, comfortable and a staple for conservative office environments. I like the Varina flat for everyday wear and the Vara pump for a modest, walkable heel.

Both styles come in every color under the rainbow so you can opt for a neutral black, navy or nude.. or get a seasonal color like blush pink velvet.

They’re slightly pricier than basic flats but each pair I’ve bought has lasted for years. For other comfortable heels, check out J. Crew , Ann Taylor , Banana Republic  and Sam Edelman .

Browse work shoes on Zappos

I have a separate toiletry pouch to hold my travel makeup and for business trips, will usually include a light foundation, a lipstick and basic eye makeup.

I also make sure to bring spare contacts and glasses for potential late night meetings when your eyes may dry out.

For perfume, I fill a small travel atomizer with my favorite scent so that I have something travel friendly. Stick to clean, light scents that won’t potentially offend anyone.

My favorite crisp, fresh scents are Tiffany , Guess 1981 and Odin . I love YSL’s Parsienne and Chloe Love Story but I avoid these for business trips because they’re stronger and muskier!

Work Makeup

Browse work makeup on Zappos

A great tote bag that can hold a manila folder for papers is essential. Also pack a small notebook, extra pens and business cards. I usually also pack a small cross body or clutch bag for dinners.

Mansur Gavriel  makes gorgeous, affordable large shoulder totes. For higher end designers, I swear by the Prada saffiano tote and Fendi 2Jours bags for statement work bags.

Work Handbags

Browse Work Handbags on Zappos

I like to bring simple, high quality pearl earrings for business trips. If you don’t mind things on your wrists, a watch and bracelet are great jewelry options – I love David Yurman if you’re looking to splurge.

Missoma also sells very timeless jewelry. They’re more affordable and range in quality from demi fine to fine necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings.

I also try to clean up my nails before a multi-day business trip and swear by neutral tones. Deborah Lippmann has the best undressed nail polish set to cover a wide range of barely there shades.

Work Jewelry

Browse work jewelry on Zappos

Travel Bags, Organizers & Electronics

For work trips, especially as a junior member of the team, you absolutely want to go carry-on only .

The first time you fly with a boss can be a little nerve wracking as you’ll likely be spending significant extended time together and you don’t yet know their travel likes and dislikes.

Most senior people in the corporate world don’t want to wait for their bags and will  not  like having to wait to get to the hotel room for you to wait for your bag at the carousel. 

If you can easily fit your items in a portable leather duffel bag , that’s a great thing to bring. Otherwise, bring a sleek and nondescript rolling carry-on.

I particularly recommend  Tumi or Samsonite for work carry-on luggage since they have very sleek and understated black options. Calpak luggage is especially light weight, has a glossy shine and comes with built-in GPS and charging ports. 

Read this review post for all my favorite carry on luggage .

Work Suitcases

Browse work suitcases on Zappos

I like to group clothing by color or function and pack each group of items snugly in their own packing cube .

These are a lifesaver for keeping your suitcase organized in your hotel room and are my number 1 secret to maximize space and function in just a carry on suitcase. I typically reserve one packing cube for all my worn clothes to separate the dirty stuff from my fresh clothes!

Amazon has their own inexpensive 4 piece packing cube set and several travel blogger friends swear by this set from eBags .

Personally I use a set from CalPak which I love. They’re machine washable for easy cleaning and if you have CalPak luggage – they’re perfectly sized for their carry on luggage pieces!

Browse packing cubes on Zappos

If I know I’m going somewhere tropical, I prefer to pack my own hair products since my hair tends to dry out from the sun and chlorine.

I currently like these for shampoo and conditioner .

Browse toiletries on Zappos

This is something I usually leave at home, especially if I’m going to a conference or meeting clients since it adds lots of weight and doesn’t typically get used.

I use a 15″ ASUS laptop and protect it with a laptop case .

Laptop Bags

Browse laptop bags on Zappos

I currently use an iPhone and a portable charger comes in handy to keep it fully charged at all times – especially when you’re on the go. This charger is small and sleek with enough life to fully charge an iPhone 2x.

Travel power strips are so handy because they allow you to charge up all your devices with one outlet. This cute power strip has multiple AC outlets, a USB charger and a cute zippered carrying case.

Portable Chargers

Browse portable chargers on Zappos

Shop Work Wear

  Read More     in my travel packing checklist series:

Best Travel Luggage

The Best Carry on Luggage for 2021

The Best Packing Cubes for a Perfectly Organized Bag

The Best Lightweight Luggage for Overpackers

The Best Hard Luggage Sets  for Stylish Travelers

The Best Underseat Luggage  for Minimalists

The Best Carry On Bags for Men - Rugged + Durable!

Business Travel

The Essential Business Packing List

The Best Business Travel Luggage

The Best Laptop Cases for Working Women

The Best Laptop Bags for Men

Packing Hacks

The Best Travel Wallets for All Your Vacation Essentials

The Best Jewelry Cases Never Untangle a Necklace Again!

The Best Toiletry Bags to Clean Up Quick

Travel Packing Lists

The Best Travel Jackets for All Types of Weather

The Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Weekend Trip

The Best Travel Backpacks to Hold Everything You Need

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

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How to Pack for a Four Day Business Trip

Last week, I traveled out-of-town for 4 days for a conference and as I looked around the ticket counter and saw people lugging huge suitcases towards check-in. With my one suitcase and work bag, I realized that I had come a long way in my packing techniques over the last few years. Here are essential rules for packing for a four-day business trip!

About two years ago, I was presenting at a conference…only a 3 nights away in the same State. I have always been an overpacker and I really hadn’t figured out the whole concept of not taking multiple outfit choices instead of actually selecting and sticking to my outfits. I way overpacked (thank goodness I was driving not flying!) and ended up having a huge and heavy suitcase with more than half the clothing not even worn. I packed way too many shoes, pants, dresses…even toiletries that was embarrassingly dragged out of the vehicle from the hotel valet with a resounding thud as it hit the curb.

Read more:  Focus on Life Balance: 7 Key Facts You Need To Know About Job Satisfaction

Since then, I have flown to a few conferences and have done a much better job of packing more efficiently thanks to having a list that outlines what I need for professional time and personal time…and sticking to it! I realized now that for the business traveler, four days are pretty simple to fit in a suitcase, but can be a challenge and even overwhelming for any new traveler. Now don’t get me wrong, I have seen and followed other bloggers that talk about traveling 4-5 days with just a backpack…I AM NOT THAT GOOD! But I have come a long way and wanted to share my tips for that inbetweener business traveler….less than a huge suitcase, more than just a carry-on bag!

Want more help? Download the Work It Women Business Travel Packing Checklist!

How to efficiently pack your case!

• Start with packing shoes on the bottom I like to put my shoes in plastic bags (germ freak!)
• Next, I like to fold and pack my pants and shirts.
• I put my undergarment and accessories in the inside zippered pocket of my case along with any medications.
• On top, I lay any toiletries, curling irons and fold and lay my suit jackets right on top. I do like to use the internal case straps to hold everything together but finally closing.
• I always pack and keep my jewelry in my purse when I travel…just a habit and safekeeping.
• Finally, I don’t close my case until it’s time to leave my house.

It’s not overpacking, but it certainly is enough items to mix and match and look great during the workday and stylishly transition to nighttime. It has taken me some time to figure all this out! Make sure that you download my free travel checklist for a business trip to keep everything in check and to help you remember all items to bring home! Let me know what you think in the comments!

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Packing List for a Four Day Business Trip

October 23, 2017 by Road Warriorette Leave A Comment

The post was inspired by my aunt and uncle, who have children on both coasts and frequently travel to visit them for a week at a time. They are people who love a bargain, so of course they hate paying baggage fees. Now, this particular conversation happened years ago (wow, seven years ago. That’s mind boggling!) but I have similar conversations with travelers all the time.

Case in point: last week I traveled to California with a co-worker. For a three day trip she checked her bag. Three days! She said that she can’t help it, she has to have an outfit for every possible scenario.

Here’s the thing. I feel like I have have an outfit for every possible scenario–it’s just that one outfit covers multiple scenarios. The same dress with cardigan works for the office, dinner out with colleagues, and the plane-ride home. I sleep in yoga pants and a tank top, which I could also use to work out. You get the idea–packing efficiently doesn’t mean feeling unprepared. It just means being smart about the items you choose.

When you’re first starting out, this can be overwhelming. I get that, so I’ve broken it down into a 4-step system.

Step 1: Figure out the potential situations you will need an outfit for. Write them all down! Some examples from my last four day business trip:

• Travel days
• Days at the office
• Working out
• Team building activity

Step 2: Write down a generic outfit for each activity. For example:

• Travel days–jeans and comfortable shirt
• Days at the office–slacks, dress, cardigan
• Dinner out–jeans, cardigan
• Working out–yoga pants, tank top
• Sleeping–PJ pants, tank top
• Team building activity–jeans, t-shirt

Step 3: Look for overlap. From the examples above, you can see that the same thing I would wear for a travel day would work for a team building activity. Workout clothes could also work for sleeping. And the right clothes for the office could also work for travel and dinner out.

Step 4: Make your list! For my last four day business trip I brought the following:

• Yellow sweater
• Orange sweater
• College tee

And I made the following outfits for varying scenarios:

• Blue pants + yellow sweater (travel, work)
• Blue pants + purple top (work, dinner)
• Blue dress (work, dinner)
• Blue dress + orange sweater (work)
• Jeans + college tee (team building activity, added sweater for travel)
• Jeans + purple top (dinner)
• Yoga pants + tank (sleep, yoga)

I also added two pairs of flats ( nude and leopard print ) that went with all of my outfits. Et voila! I had something to wear for every possible occasion, but was able to fit it all into my carryon with room leftover.

Need more packing help? Sign up for the Road Warriorette newsletter and get my free packing checklist!

Readers, what is your packing style? Do you use the same outfits for multiple occasions?

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Have a travel question or suggestion? Send it to RW @RoadWarriorette.com.

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My name is Sarah and I will teach you how to make business travel less stressful and more fun. I’ve been traveling for work for over a decade so consider me your new business travel friend and advisor. Learn more about Road Warriorette ...

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

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

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Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

General Packing Tips & Tricks

Check the weather at your destination.

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

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

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

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Choose the right luggage.

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

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

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

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

Essentials first.

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

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

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

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

Lay everything out.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUT STUFF BACK!

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

Pack it up.

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

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

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

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Pack liquids in secure bags.

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

Utilize shoe space when you can.

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

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

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

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

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

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

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

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

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

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

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

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

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

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

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember to:

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

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Do packing cubes really save space?

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

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

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

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

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

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

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

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

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

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

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

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

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

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About Erin Miller

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

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What to Pack for a Business Trip: A Women’s Guide to Traveling in Style

So you’ve got an upcoming work trip and the time has come to start planning for your travels.

For some, hitting the road is a career must. Conferences are your love language and you always find new favorite spots every palace you go to.

For others, it’s a hassle. After all, on top of prepping projects or presentations, you now have the additional baggage of travel.

If you’re staring at your closet, unsure of what to pack for a business trip, welcome. You’ve come to the right place.

Press pause on stuffing every possible outfit you might need into your suitcase. Instead, sit down with our one-and-done women’s guide for stress-free work travel. From how to pack your bag to what should make the cut in the first place, we’ve thought of everything.

How to Pack for a Business Trip: Tips for Business Women

Photo Credit: Pexels

Before we get into what to pack for a business trip, let’s tackle how to pack for a business trip.

At Next Level Wardrobe , we encourage our clients to approach clothing with intentionality, and to value quality over quantity. Use these as your two guide posts as you prepare for your trip.

What does this mean in practice?

It means that every item you take with you should be there for a specific purpose. Have a realistic idea of what your trip requires instead of over-stuffing your bags with “just-in-case” items. Remember, you’re going on a business trip, not on a spontaneous adventure.

Approach your travels with a clear, concise plan and you’ll actually be more prepared and you’ll feel more put-together.

Our top tip for women wondering how to pack for a business trip is to start with the perfect luggage.

Choosing the Best Luggage for Your Business Trip

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Although every trip and traveler is different, the need for a high-quality piece of luggage stays the same. First, you want a bag that’s sturdy to avoid any mid-travel misshapes or shopping for a replacement too soon.

Next, you want a bag that’s the right size for your travel needs.

In our experience, selecting a carry-on suitcase and either a backpack or a duffle bag is enough for most trips. (We’ll break this down with our packing list and how to pack your bag later on.)

An added bonus of this luggage duo? If you’re traveling by plane, you’ve got everything you need at your fingertips. No worrying about lost bags or racing against the clock at baggage claim.

When picking out what to pack for a business trip, we recommend checking out Tumi . They’ve got all things bags, backpacks, and suitcases. They’ve got a wide range of sizes, makes, and models from compact carry-ons to spacious weekenders for all occasions. You can also count on their complementary baggage trace system in case of loss or theft.

Last but not least, their warranty has you covered. The first year includes just about any type of damage to the suitcase (even from TSA or airline workers). Years 2 through 5 cover you for manufacturer defects or normal wear and tear.

Now that you’ve got your bags, let’s get to packing them.

How to Pack Clothes for a Business Trip

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NY + LA Personal Stylist (@nextlevelwardrobe)

With your perfect luggage in hand, let’s make the most of the space inside it. Recently, our NLW founder Cassandra Sethi went on a 6-week trip with just a carry-on and personal item. She was able to create 50 outfits with only 24 clothing items (including shoes).

Stuck on how to pack for a business trip in terms of clothes? Here are our tips for women on getting everything inside your bag:

1. Pack pants by folding them in half and laying them flat. We recommend placing these at the bottom of your bag so you can easily fit other items on top

2. Roll your tops over the pants. This is best for casual or knit-woven tops that won’t wrinkle too easily. Button-downs or other blouses and dresses are best folded on top of the pants. You can always steam these items once you arrive at your destination.

3. Fold sweaters flat and pack them over the rolled tops, leaving space for your shoes.

4. Pack your shoes inside a shoe bag. Some retailers sell dedicated shoe travel bags for this, but an old drawstring bag will do just fine as well.

5. If you’re traveling with a suit or gown, do not roll it. Either fold it neatly along with your pants or keep them in a garment bag.

When discussing what to pack for a business trip with clients or on our Instagram, we often get asked about packing cubes. Is it worth buying them or other supposed “space-savers”?

We vote no.

When you learn to lean out your wardrobe and you have the right bag, you don’t need anything else.

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Set Your Suitcase up for Success

Image Credit: Pexels

Before we get into our packing list, we have to address the elephant in the room: your closet.

If you don’t have the right pieces in your closet, you won’t have the right pieces in your suitcase either.

Perhaps you’ve got a closet full of too many pieces that don’t go together or don’t fit your current body. Maybe you’ve got a wardrobe of impulse buys that you wore once and ended up regretting.

Chances are, you won’t feel excited or confident about bringing these pieces on your business trip. This leads to overcompensating by overpacking just to try to string one outfit together.

To avoid these feelings in the first place, we recommend a closet clean-out . At NLW, we use a proprietary style system on all of our clients to help them feel confident, gain unlimited outfit options and love their purchases.

Once you’ve invested in the right pieces, colors, and fit, you’re ready to take on any business trip in style.

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Our Essential Women’s Business Travel Packing List

In our opinion, you don’t need a completely new outfit for every single day of your trip. The most efficient way to approach what to pack for a business trip is to stick to core colors.

Core colors are black, grey, navy, and white. These neutral shades are versatile enough to endlessly mix and match with each other. For example, with 4 pants, one in each core color, and two tops, you can create 8 different outfits.

You can always add a piece or two in a tonal color (shades of core colors) or an accent color. However, those items should be the minority of what’s in your suitcase.

Here are our clothing recommendations on what to pack for a business trip, item by item:

Tops  – Blouses/dress tops – Casual/t-shirt tops

Bottoms – Denim – Non-Denim options like trousers, slacks, skirts

Dress (If you wear them.)

Layering Pieces (Depending on the climate.) – Sweaters – Blazer – Coat/Jacket

Shoes (Depending on the length of your trip, the MAX amount you should bring is 3.) – Dressy sneakers – Flats – Heels

What to Pack for a Business Trip: FAQs

If you’ve got lingering questions about what to pack on a business trip, keep scrolling for our travel FAQs.

I always overpack, how can I stop doing this?

This all starts with how you approach shopping and building your wardrobe at large. If you have versatile, well-fitting, essential pieces in your wardrobe, you won’t feel the need to over-pack.

Declutter your closet of unnecessary items, and stick to pieces you’ll wear again and again and easily mix and match.

Then, when it’s time for your trip, consult your itinerary and map out exactly what you’ll need for each day. Don’t give into bringing pieces on the off-chance that you’ll unexpectedly need them.

I mean, you’re not bringing every single item from your work desk to your business trip, right? Apply the same thinking to your clothing.

How do you pack for different climates?

Two words: Light layers.

Start off with one essential piece you’ll need for each climate.

Here’s an example. Starting your trip in arid Phoenix, Arizona? Grab a classic tank top in a core color. Next stop: always foggy San Francisco? Block out the bay breeze with a cashmere cardigan. Heading to Toronto in the wintertime? Pack a timeless black or grey coat.

Pair these items back to business-ready trousers or pants and you’re ready for anything.

Is there a set number of clothes you should bring on a business trip?

No. It all depends on the length of your trip, your itinerary, and even the industry you’re in. The packing list above will give you a good baseline to start at. Customize it to fit your needs.

What about non-work clothes for when you’re off the clock on your trip?

No trip is all business all the time. It’s okay to bring a couple of non-workwear items IF (say it with us) you know you’ll wear and need them .

For example, if you’ve scheduled yourself to hit a nearby nature trail on a free morning, go ahead and pack one workout look.

In fact, if you’ve followed all the above steps, you should have room in your suitcase for necessary off-the-clock pieces.

Looking for expert help creating the ultimate travel-ready closet? Check out Next Level Wardrobe’s Virtual and In-Person image consulting services . You’ll work with a team of style-savvy experts to strengthen your brand and build a closet you truly love.

About the Author - Cassandra Sethi

Personal Stylist & Image Consultant

* Disclosure : Next Level Wardrobe only recommends products that we’d suggest to our clients or personally wear ourselves. All opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, Next Level Wardrobe may earn a small commission. Read the full privacy policy here .

3 Professional Pieces for a Timeless Closet

Download Our Complimentary Guide

Cassandra Sethi

is a NYC Personal Stylist and Image Consultant. She is the Founder of Next Level Wardrobe and 'The NLW Style System' that guarantees clients more outfits with less items.

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The Ultimate Packing List: What to Pack for Every Type of Vacation

The only packing list you'll ever need.

T he thrill of travel comes with a few hassles, many of which occur prior to departure. If you’re jetting off to your destination, you’ll need to find the best deals on plane tickets (or cruise tickets) and coordinate hotel stays. Then you’ll have to make sure your passports, Global Entry cards and vaccinations are up to date. Traveling with pets or kids? That’s a whole other layer of stress and planning—and you haven’t even started thinking about your packing list yet. You might not think a packing list is your biggest concern, but it can truly make or break your trip.

What you ultimately decide to pack, of course, depends on what you’re doing, where you’re going and how you’re traveling. "When traveling domestically, in a pinch you can repurchase almost anything you've forgotten," says Shelby Howe, owner of the boutique tour company MissAdventures. "This isn't the case with international travel, particularly when visiting a remote destination."

Keeping track of the to-dos and must-haves can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. We've made it easy for you by compiling comprehensive packing lists with four types of trips in mind: beach trips, international trips,  cruises  and  road trips . All you have to do? Download the list you need, and pack accordingly in one of the best luggage sets . As a bonus, check out some expert-recommended packing tips , and learn exactly how  and  what to pack in a carry-on .

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Beach vacation packing list

Before you can sink your toes into the sand and sip your fruity drink under the sun, you need to think about these elements in relation to what you're going to bring with you. Laura Cyrille, a travel and tourism publicist for ocean destinations, says that the perfect packing list goes beyond the requisite bathing suit , sandals and sun hat . "Here's what I take into consideration: length of stay, itinerary and the destination's climate, which, even for a beach location, can vary drastically."

And one thing Cyrille never packs her suitcase without? Packing cubes . "They're great for organizing your suitcase and keeping shoes from touching clothes," she explains. Here's what else should go in your suitcase for a beach trip.

• Bathing suits
• Tops (at least 3)
• Beach cover-up or sarong
• Casual pants
• Business casual pants
• Workout clothes
• Hoodie (for cold flights and chilly nights)
• Undergarments
• Raincoat or all-weather jacket
• Hat or visor
• Jewelry (pack this in your carry-on)
• Open-toe shoes
• Closed-toe shoes
• Sandals/ flip-flops that can do double duty at the pool and in the shower
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Contact lenses and solution
• Extra glasses
• Prescription medication
• EpiPen, if needed
• Dental floss
• Face and body moisturizer
• Hand lotion
• Hand sanitizer
• Shampoo, conditioner and body wash
• Feminine-hygiene products
• Birth control
• Hairstyling products
• Brush and comb
• Hairstyling tools
• Hair ties and clips
• Aftershave/perfume
• Cosmetics (concealer, mascara, lip gloss/balm, setting spray)
• Nail clippers and files
• Insect repellant
• Travel-size tissues

Electronics

• Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones
• Device chargers
• Camera with charger, extra batteries and memory cards

Miscellaneous

• Luggage tags
• Waterproof day bag or backpack
• Dry bag for cellphone or camera
• Laundry bag
• Water bottle
• Books/magazines
• Antibacterial wipes
• Lint roller
• Reading light
• Copies of ID, vaccination info
• First-aid kit (painkillers, antacids, allergy meds, bandages, etc.)
• List of emergency contacts, plus contact numbers for credit cards and banks

Download the Packing List

International travel packing list

Howe has been traveling to the Himalayas for decades, and her love of the region inspired her to launch MissAdventures, which leads solo women's trips to Nepal. To ensure everything goes smoothly for her clients, Howe has some specific advice for traveling internationally. "As a guest in another country, it's important to be respectful of the local culture and customs," she says. In a culture that values modesty, especially in clothing, this can mean wearing muted colors or having the right attire for visiting religious sites.

Something else to bear in mind: "In many countries, it's customary to remove shoes at the doors of people's houses, religious sites and even some restaurants—and slip-on shoes are time savers," Howe says. "Also, if you need to dress up, skip stilettos in favor of a blockier heel that will still look pretty but won't wreck your feet if you end up dancing the tango in Buenos Aires until four in the morning."

Other good packing directives involve packing items in neutral, dark colors, since they do a better job of hiding spots. Plus, "a neutral palette allows for creating different outfits with minimal pieces." Think of it as the perfect capsule wardrobe ! The right fabric makes a difference too. "If spending time in the backcountry, trade cotton for synthetic fibers," Howe adds. "They tend to be lighter, dry much quicker and can help regulate your temperature better." There's even a way to pack for a two-week international trip in a carry-on , or you can go the more traditional route with checked luggage. Either way, find out how to roll clothes for wrinkle-free packing.

• Cargo pants
• Shorts (if in warm climates)
• T-shirts (long and short-sleeve)
• Little black dress that doesn't wrinkle
• Thermal underwear
• Well-fitting socks (dry-wicking are excellent for hiking)
• All-weather jacket
• Shawl or pashmina
• Gloves (for cold climates)
• Slip-on shoes
• Hiking boots (broken in on terrain similar to your destination)
• Comfy, post-hiking shoes
• Chunky heels
• Flip-flops/shower shoes
• Water shoes
• Sandals (for warm climates)
• Hydrating facial spray and lotion
• Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
• Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Liquid Soap, a peppermint-scented multitasker that can be used as shampoo, body wash and laundry detergent
• Prescription medications in their original packaging, plus a copy of the prescription
• Universal travel adapter
• Headphones or earbuds (consider noise-canceling)
• Charging cords
• A power bank (ideally one with a solar panel)
• A water purification device like a Steripen
• Rechargeable hand warmers (which can also be used for warming up a cold sleeping bag and even extending the life of a phone or camera)
• Passports and visas
• Driver's license/photo ID
• Vaccination info
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel documents, including insurance paperwork
• First-aid kit (painkillers, allergy relief, antacids, bandages, etc.)
• Small gifts to show appreciation to people you encounter along the way

Cruise vacation packing list

One reason to love cruises ? Even though you're visiting multiple destinations, once you're on the ship, you don't have to deal with your luggage again. But your packing list has to be thorough, of course, because it's not like you can run to the corner store in the middle of the night. There are also a plethora of potential activities to consider, from formal nights and theme nights to on-shore expeditions.

Jill Whelan, Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises, grew up taking cruises. Name ring a bell? Whelan played Captain Stubing's daughter, Vicki, on the Love Boat TV series. Through her many years on the high seas, she's become a cruise packing expert, and one of her best tips is something you probably never thought about. "From curling irons to computers, a million gadgets require outlets," Whelan says. "I learned early on that a good power strip takes up virtually no space and makes ship life much easier." Just be aware that some cruises prohibit these, so check in advance.

And here's another unexpected item Whelan packs: magnets. "The walls of cruise ships are magnetized and great for keeping things organized and easy to find—like the ship's daily newsletter, excursion tickets and spa reservations." Whelan's luggage also includes fairy lights and battery-operated candles to add some romance to her cabin.

• Smart, casual sportswear (golf polos, collared shirts)
• Skirts/dresses, slacks, blouses and sweaters for women
• Pants and collared or dress shirts for men
• Loose-fitting clothes in cotton or linen for hot climates
• Bathing-suit cover-up
• Fitness clothes, leisure wear
• Evening gown, cocktail dress or elegant pantsuit for women
• Little black dress
• Tuxedo, dark suit or dinner jacket, and slacks for men
• Fun costume attire for theme nights
• Raincoat and/or all-weather jacket
• Dress shoes
• Loafers or flats
• Pool-deck shoes/flip-flops
• Low-heeled, rubber-soled shoes (for strolling on deck)
• Walking/hiking shoes
• Insect repellent
• Prescription medication in its original packaging, plus a copy of prescriptions
• Headphones or earbuds
• Power strip (see if approved on your ship)
• Universal plugs/adapters for international travel
• Luggage tags (most cruise lines will supply in advance)
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization confirmation paperwork for cruise
• First-aid kit (painkillers, antacids, allergy relief, bandages, etc.)
• Sewing repair kit
• Copies of ID and vaccination info
• Books, magazines
• Thank-you notes for staff, tipping, etc.

Road trip packing list

A road trip packing list may seem like the easiest to tackle. After all, "you don't have to deal with flying restrictions or worry about your bags being too heavy," says Elisabeth Abrahamson, an editor for Westways and AAA Explorer . This packing list, however, has its own requirements.

Of course, every road trip is different, and you need to take the weather and terrain into consideration. She says, "bring chains for your tires if you might be traveling through snow, or a visor to keep the windshield cool in warmer climates." And don't forget about the practical, old-school tactics you used to use before the days of GPS. "If you'll be traveling through an area where you might lose cell service, bring a paper map, or print out directions in advance," she adds.

When packing the car, Abrahamson groups belongings. "Items that don't require direct access, such as extra clothing, go in the trunk. Essentials, such as a phone charger, sunglasses and water, should be up front." While the items you pack will vary depending on your destination and trip length, the list below is a good place to start. The key? Layers—all of which coordinate with one another!

• Sweatshirts, hoodies and sweaters
• Sundresses or casual dresses
• Comfy socks
• Waterproof outerwear (for cold destinations)
• Bathing suit
• Comfortable tennis shoes
• Hiking shoes
• Running shoes
• Flip-flops and sandals (for warm destinations)
• Boots (for cold destinations)
• Antibacterial wipes for cleaning hands after snacking
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Face and body wash
• Prescriptions
• AirPods/headphones, especially if you're traveling with a crew
• Kindle/iPad
• Power bank, device chargers
• Camera with tripod
• Digital air compressor
• Tire-pressure gauge
• Cellphone charger that's compatible with your car
• Extra camera chargers, batteries and memory cards
• Sunglasses with UV and blue-light protection
• Travel pillow
• Blankets for picnic or beach stops
• Towels for beach swims
• Road trip snacks (popcorn, individually wrapped cheeses, water, juice, sodas)
• Snow chains
• Sun visor for windshield
• Mini cooler for front seat, larger cooler for longer stays

Vacation must-haves

No matter where you're traveling, certain packing list items always ensure a better journey. And one thing you shouldn't neglect? Packing your suitcase properly. Compression packing bags are great for adding space as well as organizing clothing, and an organizer tote for toiletries, electronics or power cords is essential too. Beyond that, you'll never want to leave home without noise-canceling headphones or earbuds. You'll be thanking us for this tip if you end up seating next to the airplane engine—or a chatty road trip companion!

What shouldn't you include on your packing list?

Of course, there are certain things you can't take on a plane—in either your carry-on or  checked luggage . If flying, visit the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" page for the dos and don'ts of specific items and any other restrictions. Cruise lines also have a no-pack list, and of course, international travel can present other obstacles. The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs can help put you on the right path for the latter.

Here's a list of common no-pack items. Check your destination, airline or cruise line for additional details.

• Fireworks, flares and pyrotechnics
• Flammable substances and hazardous chemicals
• Weapons and ammunition
• Drones and any remotely controlled flying devices or toys (these have been prohibited on many cruise ships)
• Compressed gas tanks, bottles and cylinders, including dive tanks, propane tanks and aerosol cans
• Electric steamers
• Lasers and laser pointers
• Any items or amounts of currency prohibited by customs regulations
• Balloons (many cruise lines don't allow them to ensure the safety of marine life)

On the other hand, these carry-on items could save your life , so make sure to pack them!

• Shelby Howe , owner of the boutique tour company MissAdventures
• Laura Cyrille, a travel and tourism publicist for ocean destinations
• Jill Whelan, Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises
• Elisabeth Abrahamson, an editor for Westways and AAA Explorer

The post The Ultimate Packing List: What to Pack for Every Type of Vacation appeared first on Reader's Digest .

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Ultimate Packing Checklist for 4-Week Long Trips [2023]

• June 15, 2023
• Long-Term Travel Checklists

If you're planning a 4-week long trip, packing can become overwhelming very quickly. To make things easier, we've put together the ultimate packing checklist that covers everything you need to pack for your trip. In this article, we'll also share some helpful tips and tricks to ensure that you have a stress-free and enjoyable trip.

Basic Packing Essentials

Start with the basic packing essentials, which should be in every traveler's packing list.

Travel Documents – Passport, visa, travel insurance, emergency contacts, tickets, and any other important travel-related documents. Make sure you have both electronic and paper copies of these documents. Keep them in a safe and accessible place, such as a travel document holder.

Money & Cards – Cash, debit/credit cards, and traveler's checks. Research the currency used in your destination country and make sure to bring the appropriate denominations. It's also a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your account.

Electronics & Accessories – Phone, charger, power bank, camera, memory cards, headphones, and any other must-have electronics. Pack them securely in a gadget organizer to avoid damage while traveling.

Toiletries & Medications – Toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, lotion, lip balm, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and any other personal hygiene items you may need. Don't forget to pack prescription medications if you're on any.

Clothes – We recommend packing 7 – 8 pairs of clothes for a 4-week long trip. Mix and match outfits to maximize your options while minimizing your luggage. Pack clothes appropriate for the weather conditions in your destination country.

Shoes – At least 3 pairs of shoes – one for walking, one for dressing up, and one for outdoor activities/sports. Make sure you break them into your shoes before you travel.

Efficient Packing Tips & Tricks

Now that you have your basic packing essentials sorted, it's time to pack them efficiently to make the most of the limited space you have.

Roll, don't fold – Rolling clothes saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Fold only if necessary, such as for delicate pieces of clothing.

Compression packing cubes – These are handy for organizing your clothes and compressing them to save space. They also make unpacking a breeze as you can just pull out the cube you need instead of digging through your luggage.

Pack clothes inside shoes – This saves space in your luggage and helps your shoes maintain their shape.

Travel-sized toiletries – Buy travel-sized toiletries to save space. Alternatively, you can pack your favorite products into reusable travel-size containers.

Wear your bulkiest items while traveling – This includes jackets, boots, and other heavy items that take up a lot of space. It's more comfortable to wear them while traveling, and it saves space in your luggage.

Advanced Packing

If you're traveling for a longer period of time or if you have specific needs, consider bringing these additional items in your luggage.

Laundry bag and detergent – You may want to do laundry during your trip, so bring a laundry bag and detergent. You can also look for a local laundry service.

First Aid Kit – Pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic, headache medicine and allergy medication

Travel Pillow and Blanket – If you're taking a long flight, train, or bus ride, a travel pillow and blanket will make it more comfortable. You can also use them during your trip if necessary.

Water Bottle – Stay hydrated during your trip by bringing a reusable water bottle. You can refill it at water stations or cafes in your destination country.

Daypack – For day trips or excursions, bring a small daypack to carry your essentials. You can also use it as your carry-on bag for flights.

What to Pack for a 1 Month Trip?

If you're wondering what to pack for a 1-month trip, you can use our basic packing essentials as a starting point. The only difference is that you may need to pack more clothes, depending on your destination and the weather conditions.

How Many Outfits Should I Pack for a Month-Long Trip?

We recommend packing 7-8 outfits that can be mixed and matched to maximize your options. You can also wear your clothes more than once, especially if you're not doing any strenuous physical activity in them.

How Much Clothes Should I Pack for a 3-Week Trip?

For a 3-week long trip, we recommend packing around 5-6 outfits. Mix and match them to create more combinations. Also, pack clothes appropriate for the destination's weather.

Quick Tips and Facts

• It's always a good idea to pack a universal adapter since power outlets vary from country to country.
• Pack clothes and items that are versatile and can be worn in multiple settings.
• You can pack a reusable shopping bag that can double as an additional bag or as a laundry bag.
• Don't forget to pack a portable umbrella for rainy days.

Packing for a 4-week long trip can be overwhelming, but with our ultimate packing checklist and tips, you'll have everything you need to enjoy your trip without the stress of overpacking. Be sure to follow the efficient packing tips, pack the basic essentials, and consider the advanced packing options for a comfortable, enjoyable trip. Remember to adjust packing requirements based on the specific length of your trip. Happy travels!

• Lonely Planet's Ultimate Packing List
• Smarter Travel's Packing List for a Month-Long Trip
• The Minimalist's Packing List for a Four-Week Trip

Related Posts

How many outfits should i pack for a 2-week trip [2024] ✈️.

• April 15, 2024

What Not to Pack for a Month-Long Trip [2024]

• February 18, 2024

What is the Best Way to Pack for a Week Trip? [2024]

• January 11, 2024

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I’ve Been on 50+ Cruises, and These Are the 15 Things I Never Sail Without

Add these game-changing products to your packing list ASAP.

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

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

For most people, a cruise is a long-awaited vacation on the high seas. But for me, it’s a lifestyle — in fact, it’s my profession. My love of cruising began years ago when I studied abroad on a world cruise through the Semester at Sea abroad program in college, and it’s safe to say I’ve been infatuated with the idea of sailing ever since. There's just something about being out on the ocean and waking up to a different destination every day that creates such a perfect dichotomy of traveling by land and sea. 

I’ve now been reporting on the cruise industry professionally for more than a decade and have embarked on my fair share of cruises (at least 50 so far!), each one with its own unique packing list. I’ve sailed on the planet’s largest cruise ships , as well as some of the smallest on rivers, lakes, and oceans, even crossing the equator. I’ve packed for an Alaska sailing on a cruise line that required formal dress every night and, last summer, I survived with just a carry-on bag for a three-week, back-to-back trip that began in Milwaukee and ended in Stockholm. 

While every cruise is different, and every itinerary has its own packing requirements, there are a few items that I find myself always tossing in my bag regardless of where I’m headed. From versatile travel bags and waterproof apparel to game-changing gadgets and toiletries, these are the 15 must-have things you'll always find on this avid traveler's cruise packing list . 

Sorel Out N About III Waterproof Sneakers

Sure, warm-weather cruising is a haven for flip-flops and sandals, but I've found that sneakers are a must-pack item for almost any cruise. Whether you’re considering taking a hiking or biking excursion, or you’re thinking about trying out the onboard rock-climbing wall, go-kart track, or ropes course, closed-toed shoes are required for all the above. I really like my Vessi Everyday Classic sneakers for cruising because they are wildly comfy and supportive. They're also lightweight if I need to pack them and totally waterproof. 

Another solid — and slightly cheaper — option are Sorel’s Out N About III Waterproof Sneakers . They’re super stylish and come in four neutral colors, offering ankle support, removable insoles, and sleek leather trims to make them more stylish and comfortable than your average athletic kicks. In addition to being waterproof, which is useful if you’re caught out in one of Florida’s famous sun showers, these shoes are also certified for sustainability. 

Supergoop Play Sunscreen

In the wise words of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mary Schmich, “Wear sunscreen. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it.” I must heartily agree. It doesn’t matter if your cruise is in Alaska or Antigua, Hawaii or Holland — the sun shines everywhere. For this reason, a reliable sunscreen is a vital item for any trip, and especially a cruise. Between long days spent exploring in port and sea days out on deck soaking up the rays, the last thing you want to worry about on your vacation is a nasty sunburn. 

Sunscreen has had somewhat of a glow-up in recent years, offering high SPF protection in reef safe and more skin-friendly formulas. These are just a few of the qualities that keep me reaching for Supergoop’s Play Sunscreen , which offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 for the body and face in a non-greasy lotion. Not only is it water- and sweat-resistant, but I can snorkel and swim confidently with a recipe free of oxybenzone and other chemicals known to harm reefs (some ports of call, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, have gone as far as to ban any sunscreen that’s not deemed reef safe).

Supergoop carries a naturally pleasant scent from sunflower and rosemary extracts that doesn’t scream “I’m wearing sunscreen!” from across the beach. I also like that there are a variety of sizes, so I can grab my little 2.4-ounce. bottle if I decide to go carry-on only for my next cruise. 

LifeStraw Go Filtered Water Bottle

If you do one thing for the planet this year, please buy a reusable water bottle and leave the plastic ones behind for good. Cruise lines have been doing a pretty solid job of reducing single-use plastics across their fleets in recent years. Many river cruise lines have long provided filtered water in each cabin, along with a keepsake reusable water bottle to refill around the ship and to bring with you in port. However, this varies from ship to ship. When traveling from home to your next cruise, it’s best to have your own reusable water bottle on hand. After all, staying hydrated is key to surviving long travel days and jet lag.

LifeStraw has been providing advanced filtration technology for about 25 years, originally developing its filtered “straw” as a humanitarian effort to remove contaminants from water in Guinea. This system has evolved from gear for hikers into a range of everyday products, from pitchers to personal bottles. I have an ungodly amount of water bottles in my possession, but I keep coming back to my LifeStraw because of its built-in filter. Though the chances I will be stranded by the Amazon River are slim to none, this water bottle ensures that I can safely fill up anywhere with peace of mind.  And, rather than shell out money for an overpriced plastic bottle while at sea, my LifeStraw Water Bottle makes me feel more comfortable drinking from the tap. 

Travel + Leisure / Brittany Chrusciel

Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set

This item is for cruisers that love taking advantage of the water activities. If you’re planning to book a snorkeling, diving, or kayaking excursion during your next voyage, you might want to consider packing some dry bags. These Sea to Summit waterproof bags essentially seal any items that you want to keep safe and dry, whether it’s on a catamaran in the Caribbean or a kayak trip for up-close whale watching in Mexico. Having dry bags handy puts my mind particularly at ease on expedition cruises that require “wet landings” from the ship to the shore via inflatable water crafts. I’m always going to be tempted to bring a “real” camera (not just my iPhone) on wildlife-rich sailings such as the Galapagos or the Arctic, and keeping that equipment dry and intact makes me feel much better about lugging it to the ends of the Earth. 

Having a set of different dry bags is helpful so you only grab the size you need for the afternoon; the Sea to Summit bags come in 3-, 5- and 8-liter options, and in a trio of bright, easy-to-spot colors. These lightweight, nylon bags also come with a lifetime guarantee, but you also want to make sure to add a waterproof phone case to your order just to be safe. Similar to the idea of protecting my pricey DSLR camera, I also don’t want to accidentally drop my smartphone into the Sea of Cortez. Waterproof cases like these are also a game-changer because they keep out moisture but still allow you to use the touchscreen and camera through the plastic. Having it hanging around my neck won't make me look like the coolest cat, but if I’m being splashed and bounced around and still getting the shot, I'll feel like a smart cookie. 

Lohas LED Dimmable Night Light

This one might have you scratching your head, but trust me on this. Cruise cabins can get very dark at night with all the curtains drawn — not to mention that there are some with no windows at all. While plenty of cruise ships employ something like a night light, typically in the bathroom, I’ve found this is the exception and not the rule. Be prepared by adding this dimmable night light to your carry-on. Take my word for it, your un-stubbed toes and un-bumped legs will thank you since you won't have to stumble around an unfamiliar room at night.

Not to mention that the standard lights in cabin bathrooms are bright and unforgiving, which can lead to disrupting your sleep or waking up your entire party. For less than $10, these small, plug-in LED night lights will guide the way to the toilet without the feeling of staring into the sun. A sensor in the light automatically turns it on or off, depending on the brightness of the room, so you don’t have to remember to flip a switch. You can even adjust the level of brightness emanating from the nightlight with two settings. 

A word of advice: Check the status of the outlets on your ship; most have U.S.-style outlets, but you might need to bring an adapter. 

Yalikop Beach Towel Chair Clips

By now, I’ve been on dozens of cruises, and I admit that I once cringed at the idea of using a towel clip. Whose idea was it to bring oversized plastic clips on their vacation that look like they should be keeping a bag of potato chips fresh? As it turns out, tons of frequent cruisers swear by them, and they are definitely on to something. These towel clips, ubiquitous with the pool decks of mega-ships, serve in form and function. Clipping your towel to your lounger prevents it from blowing away while you’re taking a dip in the pool or the dreaded slippage as you’re reading or napping the day away. 

Another thing that I will admit is that chair clips have gotten increasingly cuter in recent years — like this adorable tropical-themed set from Yalikop . They’re also small enough to toss in a tote and bring with you for a beach day in port. And, if you’re sailing on a large ship, especially on a day when everyone is onboard, there might be more rows of deck chairs than your frozen cocktail will allow you to keep track of. So, a cheeky cactus, or watermelon, or flamingo sticking up from your seat in a sea of identical towel-clad loungers might help you better locate your place in the sun.

Stur Electrolyte Powder Packets

Included beverage options on cruise ships can be limited, unless you book a drink package or sail on an all-inclusive or luxury cruise line. And, if you’re sailing with the kids on a major cruise line, you might only have watered-down lemonade or juice available in terms of cold, complimentary drinks. Luckily, powder drink mix packets are not only a breeze to pack, but also pump up your water with sustaining vitamins and dehydration-fighting electrolytes. 

My sister-in-law brought these Stur drink packets on a trip to LegoLand for my nephew’s birthday — in July — and we avoided paying theme-park prices for drinks by tossing these in our water bottles. Despite having zero sugar, I didn’t notice an aftertaste from the artificial sweetener, and I really liked the fruit punch flavor. I also love the Stur mixes because they keep me hydrated walking around Barcelona or the Bahamas and cost about half the price of the leading electrolyte packets. Even if you do opt for a drink package, you’ll still be reaching for these babies the morning after a bit of alcoholic overindulgence. 

Bonine Motion Sickness Tablets

I don’t want to scare anyone off cruising by including a seasickness remedy on the list, but the truth is motion is an undeniable byproduct of the ocean. Most of the time, you will barely notice that you’re at sea at all, especially on large cruise ships. But even as an avid cruiser, I’m not immune to a little motion sickness, especially if I’m sailing a transatlantic voyage during the winter or in an area known for rough seas like the Cape of Good Hope around South Africa. 

There are all sorts of remedies for seasickness, from weighted wristbands to acupuncture patches, and even noshing on green apples and ginger candies. But, I prefer Bonine Chewable Motion Sickness Tablets because they make me way less drowsy than other popular medicines like Dramamine, and are also less intense than prescription patches that can cause vivid nightmares when combined with alcohol consumption. And, when you're off your cruise ship, boat rides to go snorkeling or fishing trips in Alaska can easily get a bit choppy. So, it’s better to chew a raspberry Bonine tablet before embarking on one of these excursions (or even before setting sail on your cruise ship), rather than suffer through a wave of seasickness.

Cheap and effective, this small bottle of 16 tablets should be enough for almost any cruise. Just remember that the best time to take a pill is before you even feel sick. 

G4Free Foldable Lightweight Daypack

A daypack should be separate from your hand luggage or your travel backpack. This bag’s sole purpose is to carry all of your essentials for each destination, and maybe haul a few souvenirs back from port. It should be able to fit a water bottle, extra jacket, towel, and other useful items, but also light enough that it doesn’t weigh you down during a day of sightseeing. 

Create your easy-to-pack bag for all your cruising port visits with the G4Free daypack that costs less than $20 and comes in plenty of eye-catching colors and patterns. These bags are especially useful because they fold down into a 5-inch by 6-inch pouch that takes up about the same space as a wallet, so you can pack it to your luggage without adding extra bulk. It's also made with water- and tear-resistant polyester fabric, which means that this backpack is durable enough to withstand a Dunn’s Falls climb in Jamaica.

Epielle Korean Face Sheet Masks

I could recommend obvious items like a hat or sunglasses, but the truth is I’d rather convince you to try these adorable animal-face Korean masks on your next cruise. Hear me out: Shipboard spa treatments like facials can be expensive, so why not have your own pamper party in your stateroom? (Is it really vacation if you don’t pack at least one impractical thing?) Soothe your skin after a busy day of roaming around Rome with Epielle's nourishing and rejuvenating formulas, which feature ingredients like papaya and citrus or cranberry and witch hazel. In addition to a glowing complexion, you'll also get plenty of laughs from the animal faces on the sheet masks. 

I’ve surprised friends — male and female — with these masks during voyages, and the reactions have always been positive. Your skin really does glow immediately after using them — though you may have also gained a few laugh lines in the process. What's more, these individually wrapped masks are super easy to pack and are not considered liquids, so they can also go in your carry-on. 

Bounce Wrinkle Release Spray

Fire is the most serious hazard at sea, so anything with a heating element, including irons, is banned from passenger cabins. Most cruise ships offer laundry pressing and dry cleaning services, or even self-serve launderettes with an ironing board. But, I am lazy and prefer to spritz out my wrinkles with this handy Bounce spray , using the steam from my shower as a de-wrinkling catalyst. 

The game-changing spray has a three-in-one formula that simultaneously removes wrinkles, lifts stains, and infuses your clothes with a fresh, clean-smelling scent. I like that this anti-wrinkle spray comes in a TSA-approved sized bottle, making it perfect for on the go usage. You’ll look put together for the captain’s Champagne reception in no time.  

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Circle Cardigan

I don’t step foot on a plane, train, or cruise ship without a cozy sweater like this super-soft cardigan from Barefoot Dreams. Even if you’re sailing around the tropics, ships can be heavily air-conditioned, and you never know when you’ll want to snuggle up in something comfy. This long, loungy open-front cardigan not only looks incredibly luxe, but it's also machine washable — unlike cashmere or other high-end fabric blends — and comes in five neutral shades.

Men can opt for a zip-front version of the same cardigan to get their cozy on while at sea. It’s still buttery soft, but fits more like a jacket without the draping of the women’s design.  

Anker Portable Power Bank

Your smartphone is working overtime on a cruise, staying in touch with messaging apps and social media over the ship’s Wi-Fi (if you paid for it), and taking hundreds of the same sunset photo or helping find your way around in each new place using Google Maps. You’ll find that even if you left the ship in the morning on a full charge, your phone might need some extra juice while you’re out in port. 

This Anker Portable Power Bank is an incredible value for money, with reliable batteries at a wallet-friendly price tag. My husband is in IT, and he swears by these portable chargers, claiming that Anker also offers superb customer service if something goes wrong with your device. The battery pack listed here is compliant with Apple and Android devices, and it provides about five full charges for the average smartphone and half that amount for iPads and tablets. 

Sockwell Compression Socks

It might sound weird, but compression socks are currently having a bit of a moment. They’re no longer considered a stocking for the elderly, instead gaining momentum as wellness wardrobe essentials for all ages. I’m in my thirties, and let’s just say I can’t stand on my feet all day like I used to. Thankfully, there are these snug, supportive Sockwell compression socks that relieve pressure on hard-working feet, whether you're on a long-haul flight or know you'll be doing lots of laps around the ship.

Sockwell's compression technology maximizes circulation and reduces swelling in your tootsies, but incorporates merino wool and rayon from bamboo for a soft and moisture-wicking blend. The brand offers men’s and women’s compression socks in a selection of grades (light, medium and firm), as well as tons of colors and patterns. If your mood is saying, “lotus flowers with a touch of burnt sienna,” there is a pair for that. Socks that climb to your knees aren’t exactly suited for beachy shorts and coverups, but I usually wear them on travel days for flights or during hikes or long walking tours. 

Open Edit Strappy Midi Dress

The LBD, also known as the “little black dress,” has long been fundamental to any closet, and it should also come with you on your cruise. A hallmark of traditional cruise vacations is the formal night, which is one or two nights of your voyage where the entire ship is asked to dress their best and parade through the promenade in their finery. These nights are *chef’s kiss* for people-watching and bringing out a sense of occasion across the ship, usually complemented by a special menu in the main dining room and plenty of opportunities for portraits. 

While dress codes have relaxed across the cruise industry in recent years, it’s still a good idea to pack something a bit nicer to wear to a specialty restaurant or for a night out. I always prefer to be overdressed than underdressed, so this assignment is never lost on me. But if you’re the type of person who wants your suitcase full of clothes to work hard for you, I highly recommend this midi  dress from Open Edit .

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Alaska cruise packing list: 36 must-have items.

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

Alaska Cruise Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

For the cabin  

Portable humidifier.

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

Magnetic hooks

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

Motion sickness remedies

Courtesy of Sea-Bands

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

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

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

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

Courtesy of Rifle Paper Co.

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

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Wrinkle release spray

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

Travel-size bathroom sprays

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

Over-the-door organizer

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

Electronics organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

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

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

For the ship and onshore excursions  

Disinfecting wipes.

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

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

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

Insect repellent

Courtesy of Badger

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

Hiking poles

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

Read: The Top Alaska Tours

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

Rain jacket and pants

Courtesy of Columbia

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

Silk thermal long underwear

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

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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

Waterproof shoes and boots

Courtesy of Merrell

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

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

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

Bathing suit

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

Warm hat and gloves

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

Fleece-lined pants

Courtesy of REI

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

Packable jacket

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

Read: The Top Packable Jackets

Casual clothes

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

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Formal clothes and themed evening attire

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

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

Reusable water bottle

Courtesy of Ello Products

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

Lightweight folding daypack

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

Read: The Top Carry-on Backpacks

Lightweight mirrorless camera and lens

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

Read: The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

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

For the journey  

Carry-on bag.

Courtesy of Travelpro

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

Read: The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Garment bag

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

Read: The Top Garment Bags for Travel

Packing cubes

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

Travel pillow and quilted wrap

Courtesy of Trtl

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

Read: The Top Neck Pillows for Travel

Medications

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

Read: What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Collapsible duffel

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

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

What not to pack for your cruise

Small appliances.

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

Alcohol and spirits

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

CBD and marijuana

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Tips

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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