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Our Favorite Packing Tips, as Seen on Reddit

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Ashley Rossi

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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Reddit is an online community platform that happens to be a goldmine for travel advice, particularly when it comes to hacks and packing. After landing on a subreddit (the name for an individual topic forum) when researching a story, I often find myself checking back for more great ideas. Here are some of the best packing tips I’ve found while researching on Reddit.

For more minimalist packing advice and hacks from Reddit, follow the subreddit, r/onebag . You’ll be hooked too.

Carry-on and Personal Item Size Limits for 32 Airlines

Packing Tip #1: Dry Bags Can Do It All

travel essentials list reddit

“Always carry a dry bag ~20L to do laundry on the road, as detailed  here . Throw in clothes, add detergent (or a spoonful of dishwashing liquid), and shake or let soak for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Wring clothes out with a towel to speed up drying. This is the easiest way to wash clothes on the road – hotel, hostel, or wherever – without hogging an entire sink. Plus, the dry bag comes in handy for adventures and protecting your laptop in storms.” – ABrotherAbroad

How to Do Laundry on Vacation

Packing Tip #2: Migrate to One Cable

“All in all, I went from seven different charging cables (or battery) to  just a single one.  All devices are at least an upgrade from the previous one, with some offering a  major  upgrade. The devices include:

  • Action Camera
  • Mirrorless Camera
  • Bluetooth Earphones
  • Portable Battery
  • Portable Storage
  • Bluetooth Keyboard
  • Bluetooth Mouse
  • Wireless Charger
  • Travel Adapter
  • Flashlight/Headlamp
  • Electric Razor/Beard Trimmer

13 devices  that make use [of] the same type of cable

I can charge all devices from a single power adapter that offers three USB-A outputs and 1 USB-C output but it never happens – at worst I have to charge two at the same time as most devices have a fast charge.” – MarcusForrest

Packing Tip #3: Pack Like You Can’t Buy Anything for 24hrs

“What would you want/need? Personally, I’ve lost track of the number of endless bus rides, delayed flights, power outages, and rental car breakdowns I’ve had to deal with. I wouldn’t carry a huge first aid kit, but I would absolutely carry a mini-bottle of Advil and a roll of antacids. I carry a Vapur bottle that I fill and use all the time. I usually have a Cliff bar in my bag somewhere.” – Hakote

travel essentials list reddit

Packing Tip #4: Fabrics Are Your Friends

“Always pack at least one quick-dry outfit. Ideally, pack ALL quick-dry items. Nothing you take should require more than 12 hours to dry.” – Hakote

“In my opinion, the combination of merino and bamboo is really nice. Makes the merino stronger, softer and airy. I tend to sweat in it less and just like the feel. My favorite shirt of last year was a Pally’Hi with 60 percent merino and 40 percent bamboo. There is a discussion going on that the bamboo origin doesn’t really matter since it is merely the source for the cellulose to create viscose (meaning things that are often called modal or bamboo are simply viscose) but there is a difference in the way the fibers are treated after spinning. Which means that with a better-quality viscose you get a stronger and lighter fiber.” – ormagon_89

“Invest in at least one item of merino wool. T-shirt, socks, underwear, or button-up shirt. Merino is a game-changer for packing light. They are wrinkle-resistant, and don’t smell after wearing it multiple days.” – GeoffMeetsWorld

Packing Tip #5: Make a Decoy Wallet

travel essentials list reddit

“I always pack a fancy looking wallet with a 20 Euro bill and old credit cards. If somebody mugs me that’s what I give them.” – inthenameofmine

Packing Tip #6: Have a Travel Drawer at Home

“I travel enough for work and often with so little notice that I have a ‘Travel Drawer’, with my pre-packed toiletry bag, a pouch with charging cables and other handy stuff, and a packing cube with leggings, a t-shirt, and some socks and underwear in it. I basically corralled that stuff together because on a couple of occasions I had to ask my boyfriend to grab my stuff and meet me at work or the airport, and it was easier to say ‘grab the stuff from the travel drawer’ than to give him a full packing list … Eventually, I added a document folder to that drawer with my passport, social security card, some cash, and other stuff.” – Hakote

Packing Tip #7: Swap Your Liquid Toiletries for Bars

travel essentials list reddit

“I use the Neogen green-tea face stick when I travel as a joint face/body wash. It comes in a tube-like a large stick of lip balm, it’s easy to use with or without a washrag, and it lasts forever. It’s also very affordable and doesn’t count as a liquid for TSA purposes. I use one in my gym bag as well.” – violtetviceroy

“I just bought my first Lush shampoo bar and love it, but plan [on] buying a bar of dr. Bronner’s for my body. I personally love the tea tree one, and both bars will fit in my stainless-steel soapbox.  Someone else mentioned their soap turning to mush; I don’t store my soap in the shower and keep the box on the outside edge so water doesn’t get in it, or place it outside of the watered-down area right after using it and it stays together fine.” –bohemianmarie

Packing Tip #8: Rolling vs. Folding

“Folding lacks organization unless I put them in packing cubes. Ranger roll is too finicky and doesn’t save me any space. The bundle method is ok for wrinkles but is a pain for getting individual items out. It would work better for me in situations where I stay in one place for longer periods of time, I.e. long enough to unpack and live out of a dresser/closet instead of my suitcase. I think my new go-to might be a combination of rolling with rubber bands or hair ties and packing cubes or clear bags.” – katmndoo

The Best Packing Cubes Ever

Packing Tip #9: The One Item That Surprised Even Us … The Linen Towel

travel essentials list reddit

“As for linen itself, I greatly prefer my towels to both cotton and also to the microfiber camping towel I used before my linen towel. It’s not as soft as a plush cotton towel but it dries me well, dries itself quickly, and folds down much smaller. Linen is also supposed to be much more durable than cotton although I can’t say I ever wore out a cotton towel.” – chackoc

How to Pack a Suitcase: The Ultimate Guide

“Basically, this thing folds up so thin, doesn’t take much space, and most importantly dries up quickly (ie. no bad smell). I tried the microfiber quick-dry towel, and they were not quick-drying, especially in humid weather. They also smell really horrible if not dried properly, and I could never get used to the grippiness of the towel. The only drawback I say for the linen towel is the price and that you have to get used to the roughness initially. After a few uses, the roughness will be gone and it will become smooth.” – polarium

You Tell Us: What are your favorite lesser-known packing tips?

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More from smartertravel:.

  • Ingenious Packing Tips Every Traveler Should Know
  • The  Essential  International  Packing  List
  • The  Essential  Carry-on  Bag  Packing  List

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.

Editor’s note: Some posts have been edited for clarity.

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  • Packing Lists

The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

travel essentials list reddit

In This Article

Jump to a Section

  • Packing Checklist
  • Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

  • Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
  • Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
  • Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
  • Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
  • Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
  • Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
  • Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

  • Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
  • Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
  • Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
  • Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
  • Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
  • Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
  • Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
  • Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

  • Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
  • Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
  • Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
  • Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
  • Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
  • Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
  • Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
  • Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

  • Ease of Use 5 /5
  • Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

  • Comfort 4.5 /5
  • Sound Quality 5 /5
  • Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

  • Ease of Setup 5 /5
  • Accuracy 5 /5
  • Functionality 5 /5
  • Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

  • Capacity 5 /5
  • Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

  • Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

  • Quality 4.8 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

  • Comfort 5 /5
  • Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags , it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

  • Organization 4.5 /5
  • Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

  • Portability 3 /5
  • Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

  • Design 4 /5
  • Maneuverability 3 /5
  • Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer to curate the best options to suit most needs and international destinations.

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travel essentials list reddit

31 Carry-On Essentials Our Editors Swear By

By Madison Flager and Megan Spurrell

Carry on products collage.

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

At 35,000 feet, the simplest of items can become essentials. Whether it's a favorite protein bar that breaks up the salted peanut humdrum, or a MacGyvered combination of accessories that ensure sleep, these items are what make sitting in an aluminum tube hurtling through the sky seem, well, bearable. Below, Traveler editors share their best tips for what to pack in a carry-on , from skin-saving beauty hacks to gadgets that keep boredom at bay, plus more practical items, like a case to store travel documents and credit cards and pouches for all of our toiletries. These are the items that have firmly earned a spot in our carry-on luggage and personal items, making travel days smoother, no matter where we're headed.

Tech essentials

Organizational hacks, creature comforts, beauty and wellness must-haves, packable snacks, hydration essentials.

  • More in-flight items we love

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

Headphones.

I’ve been sold on these Technics earbuds from the moment I got them, and I refuse to fly without them now. The most underrated feature is the ambient sound mode. It cancels out all surrounding noise but you will still be able to catch announcements coming from the cockpit as if the pilot is talking directly to you. —Paris Wilson, commerce producer

iPad Air

The iPad Air has become my favorite carry-on tech item. Between e-book apps and downloaded TV shows from Netflix and Hulu, I can fit hours and hours worth of entertainment onto the slim tablet. And if I’m trying to get work done but don’t want to bring my laptop, I use the Smart Keyboard case, which is surprisingly lightweight for a keyboard that feels stable and is almost full-size. Plus, the battery life is great, so I don’t have to worry about running out of power, even if I’m using it for the majority of the flight. —Stephanie Wu, former Traveler editor

Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones

Once I was on a 16-hour flight, seated in front of the chattiest passenger. (He was going to Cape Town , then Australia , Singapore , and Hawaii , if you were wondering. He also loves 90 Day Fiancé .) Luckily, all I had to do was pop on my Sony noise-canceling headphones and I was in my own oasis of silence. These Bluetooth headphones are pricey but they're worth it. They block out nearly all noise, are pressure optimized for comfortable listening on flights, and come with a two-prong jack (especially useful for passengers in business class , where the seat-back usually requires one). Best of all, they have a built-in microphone which can pipe in outside noise—all you have to do is hold your hand over the right ear—so you won't have to take them off to hear flight attendant announcements. They're a lifesaver. —Meredith Carey, former Traveler editor

travel essentials list reddit

Once in flight, I become absolutely glued to my Kindle. Lately, I've been churning through the Neapolitan novels by Elena Ferrante from wheels up to wheels down. This version of the Kindle has adjustable lighting which is perfect for reading on planes with dim cabins (and helps you avoid being “that person” who uses the overhead reading light during a nighttime flight). I like to load my Kindle up with a couple new books before I leave for a trip, so I can continuously read no matter what my on-board Wi-Fi situation might be. —Jessica Puckett, travel news and transportation senior editor

Image may contain: Electronics

I've recently become an AirPod convert—I just got the noise-canceling set and there's no turning back—but if there's one place an old school pair of headphones with a cord and a headphone jack reigns, it's in-flight. Most in-flight entertainment systems require a 3.5mm headphone jack, like the classic Apple headphones, and there's truly nothing worse than finding yourself unable to plug in when you want to (or relying on the headphones they sell onboard). I have an iPhone 10, so it's also essential I pack a lightning adapter so I have the freedom to switch to music on my phone when I'd like. I'd argue every frequent traveler should have a spare set of these headphones tucked inside their carry-on —even if you have another set of headphones you use more regularly, these guys are a lifesaver whenever you inevitably forget your bigger, better pair on a long-haul flight. —Megan Spurrell, senior editor

Image may contain: Bag, and Briefcase

Longer trips mean I'm packing more gear, and I like keeping this pouch pre-packed with my endless array of cords, headphones, back-up battery back, adaptor, and plug-ins ready to go. The organizational structure of this pouch, with its many internal dividers and sections, means I can find everything easily and never worry about messy cord management. —Corina Quinn, former Traveler editor

travel essentials list reddit

I was given a set of travel pouches as a gift and they've been absolutely invaluable. I didn't think I'd be able to use all three, but on a recent trip, I used the small one for my vitamins, the medium one for electronic cords and adapters, and the large one as a catch-all for all the stuff that typically just floats around at the bottom of my bag. It made it way easier to reach into my carry-on to grab things mid-flight, when I'm usually juggling a million objects and stuff is spilling everywhere on my lap, tray table, and the floor. —S.W.

Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, and Buckle

There should be a word for the level of frustration induced by tangled cords in your carry-on—especially when you're desperately trying to retrieve a charger for your iPad, which is currently at one percent and you have three more episodes of The Crown to get through. This Is Ground's Cord Tacos solve it all with a super simple taco-shaped design that keeps cords nicely organized. They also come in a bunch of colors, making them easy to find at the bottom of your bag. —Lale Arikoglu, articles director

Image may contain: Wallet, Accessories, Accessory, and Bag

Mark & Graham's commute clutch gives me one spot to keep all the small but essential things I always take with me. It's so organized, and I love how easy it is to pack and find what I need, fast—whether that's my wireless earbuds, pens, lip moisturizer , in-flight sheets masks , passport, or money. —C.Q.

A small bag.

Like packing cubes , small pouches are essential when traveling—you can never have too many. This small one from Cuyana is made of a pretty pebbled leather, and is the perfect size for storing AirPods, corded headphones (to use for in-flight movies), and a lip balm. —Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

travel essentials list reddit

If I’m traveling with checked baggage, I like to keep my toiletries and medicine on me in my carry-on bag or personal item, just in case I have to deal with lost luggage. I’ll make sure all my travel essentials are in there: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, contact solution, plus any valuables like jewelry. For extra-long flights and red eyes, I’ll bring a change of clothes, too. —M.F.

travel essentials list reddit

This is my new must-have on flights where I'm trying to sleep. It's surprisingly easy to blow up (I'm talking three or four breaths, max), and is easy to adjust depending on which way you want to lean and how firm or soft you prefer a pillow to be. Even better, it rolls up tightly, taking up way less space in a backpack or tote than a traditional neck pillow. —M.F.  

travel essentials list reddit

I would like to consider myself a compression sock evangelist. For pretty much every flight more than 4 hours I pop on knee-high compression socks , which eliminate any pins and needles feeling from sitting for so long and give me more energy on arrival. I love this Comrad pair, mostly because you can pull them off as regular socks before and after you board and no one will be the wiser. —M.C.

Image may contain: Food, and Ketchup

These ear plugs are also at the tippy top of my carry-on packing list—they block out any noises on board. Once you roll them between your fingers, they expand to fit comfortably in any ear and offer complete silence no matter what chatty flier is sitting next to you or how many flight attendant call buttons go off. I buy these in bulk and bring several pairs with me on every flight I take. —J.P.

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After resisting an eye mask for many years, a work-week red eye finally made me a convert. I find that compression-style masks are best for helping me actually fall asleep in the air…and if it has a cooling insert, even better. This weighted IMAK version was made to fight headaches and will block out any sunlight, so you don't have to worry about nudging your neighbor to close the shade. Even better: It's less than $15 on Amazon. —M.F.

Image may contain: Food, and Mayonnaise

Disinfecting wipes always come in handy. I wipe down my plane seat and tray table when I first board and use them to clean my hands before and after enjoying my in-flight snack. I’ve also reached for these when first arriving at an Airbnb or hotel room, at an amusement park, and after a subway ride. —Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

Lemon mist.

When hand sanitizer was in short supply in 2020, I was extremely happy to have a few bottles of Everyone for Every Body's hand sanitizer spray squirreled away. A few years later, it's still a go-to, mainly for the great smell—a mix of that sunscreen-coconut and fresh lemon. Without fail, whenever I use it, someone asks what it is and where to get it. Plus, it doesn't dry out my hands. —M.F.

Image may contain: Bottle, Text, and Label

This hand sanitizer from Aesop was already my go-to before the pandemic, and has continued to serve me well ever since. It doesn't dry your hands out, smells of mandarin rind and rosemary leaf, and comes in a sleek little bottle—a luxurious upgrade to the other hand sanitizers that now permanently rattle around in my tote bag. —L.A.

Image may contain: Bottle, Cosmetics, Lotion, and Sunscreen

For as long as I can remember, my mom has been using Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, applying it with near-religious zeal after a shower, before bed, and post-beach. It's one of the many good habits she's passed on to me—albeit one of a small number I've been smart enough to practice regularly. I have super-sensitive dry skin to begin with, and I find that this lotion, which I take in a TSA-friendly tube when I'm traveling, moisturizes it just enough, leaving my skin soft, dewy, and replenished, even after a multi-hour plane ride. It's liquid gold. —Betsy Blumenthal, features and franchises editor

Image may contain: Bottle, Cosmetics, and Aftershave

My skincare routine is simple, and works for me year-round, but I don't like to disrupt it when I travel. Thankfully, Kiehl's makes miniature travel-size versions of my products, like their Cucumber Herbal Conditioning Cleanser, which are close to me on every flight, and crucial for the tired state my skin is always in after. —Louis Cheslaw, former Traveler editor  

[Editor's note: The carry-on size version is no longer produced, so we recommend transferring product into a Cadence Capsule when you're carrying on.]

travel essentials list reddit

You think a spritz is a spritz until you use this one. Lumene is a Finnish brand and the company uses all Nordic ingredients in their products, down to the water which comes from a pure Arctic spring. Spray the Lähde Hydrating Mist a couple of times after a long flight and the water, which is infused with nourishing birch sap and releases the most wonderfully subtle fragrance, will wake your skin right up. —Erin Florio, executive editor

Lip mask.

The Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is such an essential carry-on item for me. I keep a tube of it in a special pocket of my bag so I can find it quickly without fumbling. It's so moisturizing on my lips, which tend to flake in dry aircraft cabins, and even adds a hint of shimmer. It also spreads easily and is thicker than something like Aquaphor without being too sticky. There are five different colors available—I love the light pink Champagne color and the sheer red Smashed—and the tubes last forever. —J.P.

Image may contain: Bottle, Cosmetics, and Sunscreen

My hands get really dry when I travel, and I love Supergoop!'s moisturizer because it never feels greasy and keeps my hands smooth. As a bonus, it's completely odorless and provides great SPF coverage. —C.Q.

travel essentials list reddit

I almost always have a tin of Rosebud Salve on me, but especially when I fly. It's thicker than most other lip balms I've tried, and keeps my lips from getting dry in flight. Plus, it doubles as a balm over dry patches on my hands, and each small tin lasts for months, even with frequent use. —M.F.

Image may contain: Food, and Snack

A lot of plane food is trash, so I always pack nuts when I travel. I’m obsessed with the ‘Bold’ line from Blue Diamond because the almonds come in tongue-lashing flavors like Salt & Vinegar, Spicy Dill Pickle, and Wasabi & Soy Sauce. They’re completely addictive—and at 30,000 feet, you need aggressive flavors to punch through the dulling of your palate. —A.H.

Image may contain: Text, Label, and Bottle

Under most circumstances, if I’m eating a bar of any kind, it means that something has gone terribly wrong with my eating plans for the day. However, when it comes to plane snacks, Perfect Bars are worthy of their name. They taste significantly better than other high protein bars—really, they eat like crumbly cookies—and they have the ability to keep you full for two or three hours in the air. —N.K.

travel essentials list reddit

I love RXBars because they taste good but feel quite healthy—and when I travel, I know I'll be eating and drinking everything possible when I reach my destination, so swapping the Reese's pieces at Hudson News for something made of fruits and nuts feels like a kindness to my body. On most flights, I have to have my own snacks, too, because there's nothing worse than realizing you're hungry mid-flight and having nothing to turn to beside Biscoff cookies (sorry, Biscoff hive). —M.S.

Image may contain: Bottle, Shaker, and Cylinder

I’ve started carrying a reusable water bottle whenever I travel, whether I'm getting on a long flight or a short car ride. I love the way the BKR looks, with its sturdy glass material, carry-handle, and the wide variety of color options. For something more lightweight, Nalgene is the way to go. —S.W.

Image may contain: Cosmetics, Bottle, and Sunscreen

I take in-flight hydration seriously. Actually I take hydration seriously all the time, and I don't let a flight derail me. I love Nuun electrolyte tablets because you can drop them in your water and get a fizzy little drink, and they have less sugar than other brands like Liquid IV. I swear I land feeling fresher for it—and I like to think my effort saves my skin from reaching that wretched bone-dry airplane state, though I'm not clear on the science of the whole hydrating-from-the-inside-out thing. —M.S.

An AG1 box.

Early morning flights are tough, but sometimes, they're unavoidable. When I'm leaving my house before the sun rises, I like to bring an Athletic Greens travel pack with me to drink on the way to the airport or before boarding my flight. It gives me a boost of energy, without having to stand in the inevitably long line for coffee at the airport. And between the hydration, vitamins, and minerals, I feel like I'm starting my day off on the right foot. My only qualm—I wish the travel packs were narrower, so no powder would spill out when I'm pouring a pack into my water bottle. —M.F.  

More in-flight items we like to pack

Image may contain: Text, and Bottle

No matter how many gadgets I have on me, I always pack a small notebook and keep it close on every trip. Sometimes my neighbor turns out to be from wherever I'm headed and I want to jot down their tips; other times, I know my phone is going to die before we land and I need to scribble out the address of my Airbnb to show a cab driver. There's something romantic about having a physical notebook at the ready, and with a tiny one like the Moleskine Volant, I never have to ask if I really need it when deciding what to pack (or cut) in a carry-on. —M.S.

Protect Your Trip »

28 things you should always pack in your carry-on bag.

Create your packing list of necessities and some new in-flight essentials.

What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

travel essentials list reddit

Achieve peak comfort on your next flight with these carry-on items.

Packing for a flight is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of airport and in-flight essentials, you can maximize space in your carry-on bag.

To help you decide what to pack in your carry-on bag, our team compiled this list of must-have items. Download the packing list here to use while you prep for your next trip, then read on to learn more about what to pack.

Carry-on packing list

Travel wallet, passport holder, toiletry bag, tsa-approved liquids bag and compliant containers, prescription medications, luggage tag, travel pillow, packing cubes, tech organizer, zippered pouches and reusable silicone bags, hand sanitizer, wired earbuds or headphones, e-reader or a great book, travel adapter/converter, travel blanket, travel first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, activities or games, foldable tote, light jacket, extra shoes, change of clothing.

Protect your credit cards and cash with an RFID wallet like the Travelon RFID Blocking Single Zip Wallet , which prevents scammers from wirelessly stealing your personal information. This travel wallet is especially useful since it can also hold most smartphones.

If you're traveling internationally, an option like the TIGARI Passport Holder can protect your travel document and make it easy to locate in your carry-on bag. You'll need access to your passport at airport security, when you board the plane and when you're filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder as well as a pen within reach. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet somewhere safe at your lodging or – if you feel inclined to keep it with you – stow it in your travel purse, belt bag or backpack to ensure it's safe while you explore.

Read: The Top Passport Wallets

Young woman showing cosmetics permitted in carry-on baggage. Close up of hands.

Getty Images

Pack your toiletry bag in your carry-on so you can easily freshen up and so that you'll have essentials like toothpaste and deodorant in the event your checked luggage is lost in transit. Also consider packing toiletries that are useful for travel (particularly the dry air on planes), even if they're not part of your daily routine at home.

U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends including a facial moisturizer and a body lotion in your toiletry bag. "My skin always dries out on flights and it's nice to have something to soothe my skin," she says.

"I always love having facial spray to freshen up after the flight," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , also a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She always keeps one in her purse. " Mario Badescu and Evian are great." These facial sprays help to moisturize your skin after the drying environment on a plane or give you a little midday pick-me-up.

When packing your carry-on bag for a flight, you'll want to have a clear quart-sized bag that meets Transportation Security Administration guidelines for liquids and gels. Some Dopp kits or toiletry bags include a removable bag for travel-size liquids, or you can buy this reusable TSA-approved clear bag on Amazon . Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer.

Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles or containers measuring 3.4 ounces or less. Remember: You'll need to remove this clear quart-sized bag from your carry-on bag at security, so consider packing it in an external pocket or an easy-to-find spot in your carry-on suitcase. To learn more about TSA regulations, consult our article about what is allowed in a carry-on .

Never stow prescription medications in checked baggage : If luggage is lost or delayed, replacing these medications while traveling can be extremely challenging or even impossible. If you take multiple medications, consider a travel pill sorter like the EZY Dose Pill Organizer , available for about $5 on Amazon.

Suitcase with blank Luggage Tag

Even if your carry-on has a coordinating identification tag, consider purchasing a unique luggage tag that will help it stand out. This is especially useful in the (common) event you have to gate-check your carry-on due to limited space in the overhead bin, and then locate it on the cramped jet bridge post-flight.

Resting throughout your journey can help you feel refreshed when you reach your destination and make the time pass a little quicker. But nothing can (literally) cramp your style like a stiff neck from sleeping wrong. Choose a comfortable neck pillow for travel like the top-rated Cabeau Evolution S3 or the MLVOC Travel Pillow (less than $30 on Amazon).

Packing cubes aren't just for organizing clothing and shoes. Maximize space in your carry-on bag with these handy travel compartments . While Eagle Creek's PACK-IT line features the top-rated compression packing cubes on the market, many travelers also swear by the Veken Packing Cubes , which are usually available for $20 or less on Amazon.

It's easy to let your charging cords get lost at the bottom of your bag or get your headphones tangled somewhere in your tote. A handy tech organizer with zippered compartments and sections for specific cords, such as the BAGSMART Tech Organizer, can help reduce tangled messes (and the need for you to search for your essentials in a tight airplane cabin).

Smaller than packing cubes, zippered pouches and silicone bags like the Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags are perfect for storing everything from snacks to scrunchies. If traveling with family, consider different colored pouches for each traveler's items so you can easily tell them apart without removing everything from the bag.

Gotta be clean for breakfast

Let's face it – traveling can introduce your body to a host of unwanted germs. Carrying a bottle of travel hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean on the go, even if there's not a bathroom nearby. To disinfect surfaces like airplane tray tables, arm rests or tables, consider having a pack of disinfecting wipes at your disposal as well.

During a flight, the low humidity and high altitude can have a drying effect on your skin and lips. To combat the dry air, consider packing a hydrating lip balm like this new stick option by Aquaphor . What's more, if you choose a balm over a liquid moisturizer, you won't need to store this product in your clear TSA-approved liquids bag.

Bluetooth and wireless headphones are great, but when you're flying they aren't always compatible with airplane entertainment systems. If you're planning to watch a movie (or maybe just tune out your seatmates), buy some inexpensive wired earbuds like this well-rated set by Jogteg . Alternatively, you can purchase an AirFly ($35 or less on Amazon), which wirelessly transmits audio via Bluetooth.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Having a book or magazine in your carry-on bag is always a good idea. Whether you encounter a delayed flight, a long layover or a plane with less than stellar in-flight entertainment, a good book will help pass the time.

On everything from red-eye flights to international jaunts, a good eye mask can block out light from overhead, the seatback screens and plane windows. The Nodpod Sleep Mask is especially relaxing since it's weighted.

"Even if you plan to grab a bite at the airport or on the plane (if that's an option), pack some snacks," says Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "Flying is unpredictable and stressful for many travelers, and 'hanger' only makes things worse." Also put chewing gum in your carry-on to freshen breath and help with ear popping.

It's not always easy to find a charging station at the airport, and there are restrictions when it comes to packing batteries in your carry-on baggage for any flight. One option that meets Federal Aviation Administration guidelines is the Anker 537 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K for Laptop) . This device can charge a laptop, smartphone or tablet quickly, to keep your devices running even on a long flight.

A woman's hand holds a travel adapter on white background.

For international travel – since different countries use different plug shapes – packing a universal adapter or converter will enable you to charge your devices and other electronics. Before purchasing, consider what your needs will be, especially regarding the shape of the wall outlet plugs and the voltage of the countries you'll be visiting.

A travel adapter such as the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon makes plugs from the U.S. fit into electrical outlets around the world, whereas a travel converter like the GEARGO 230W Voltage Converter converts the electricity voltage. If you're traveling overseas from the U.S., you'll need both of these devices to use electronics like laptops, curling irons and hair straighteners (unless your device is dual voltage, like the BaBylissPRO Nano Mini Straightening Iron ).           

Whether you're traveling to a cooler climate or looking to stay cozy on a chilly flight, a comfy blanket can make all the difference. The Travel Blanket from Away has thermoregulating technology, snaps to connect a travel pillow and pouches to tuck your feet. What's more, it folds up into a handy carrying pouch when not in use. For a more affordable but still well-rated option, check out the EverSnug Travel Blanket .

For minor injuries like blisters from new shoes or unexpected cuts and scrapes, pack a first-aid kit with Band-Aids and triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin in your bag.

Close up shot of an Indonesian woman with face mask opening the cap of her reusable plastic water bottle, ready to drink. She's trying to stay hydrated during long haul flights amidst Covid-19 pandemic.

Staying hydrated while traveling is a must. Pack a reusable water bottle like the Corkcicle Canteen Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle to fill up at the airport before your flight and refill throughout your travels. Even better – an insulated bottle will stay cold for hours.

Whether it's a long flight or layover (or maybe you just need a good distraction), having some activities like a miniature coloring book and mini colored pencils or small packable games can be really useful.

"I took a small coloring book and a small set of pencils on a flight once and it was life-changing," Méndez says. U.S. News digital producer for travel Leilani Osmundson says she and her husband love to bring a deck of cards and portable two-player games to pass the time.

For day trips, picnics, carrying an extra pair of shoes or anything in between, a lightweight reusable bag like the Lug Packable Tote Bag is a helpful addition to your carry-on. It'll save on single-use plastic bags and provide extra space for unexpected purchases.

For added comfort and cleanliness, consider a reusable airplane seat cover, like this one by SeatRx . Constructed from breathable materials, these seat covers are machine-washable, have a universal fit and come with a storage pouch.

Read: Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?

"I typically wear a lightweight jacket on the plane to free up space in my carry-on," says Norcross. "If the plane is too warm, I can easily stuff it under the seat in front of me with my backpack." If you're in need of a simple yet effective packable jacket , check out the Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket .

Flying and walking can cause feet to swell, while some travels may take you to a completely different climate. Packing an extra pair of shoes in a water-resistant packing cube, or within a designated shoe compartment in a weekender bag, keeps other carry-on contents clean and gives you footwear options.

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

Whether your coffee spills off your tray table or you lose your checked baggage, an extra outfit is handy to have. Pack a versatile outfit (including underwear) into your carry-on bag so you have a backup option, or perhaps have your swimwear and flip-flops ready to head directly to the beach.

Read: Beach Packing List Essentials

Whether you want to change into a comfy pair of ankle socks to nap, or you got caught in the rain on the way to the airport and now have wet socks, having a change of socks can be useful. For maximum comfort, consider compression socks for travel , which can stimulate circulation to help reduce leg swelling caused by flying or sitting for extended periods of time.

What not to pack in a carry-on bag

When packing a carry-on bag or suitcase, it's important to note that some items are prohibited on all flights, due to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The prohibited list includes aerosol products (such as anti-static spray or pepper spray), lithium or lithium-ion batteries, firearms and ammunition, flammables, and explosives. For more details on what you can and can't pack in your carry-on, visit the TSA's What Can I Bring? and the FAA's Pack Safe websites.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves to see how much she can fit in her carry-on bag. She always brings a few snacks, a good read and little luxuries to make the journey comfortable. Hood used her personal travel experience, along with her retail background and research expertise, to write this list.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Luggage Brands
  • Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
  • What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled
  • The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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33 Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack—No Matter What

An Esquire-approved packing list for every type of adventure.

Thus, commences the ultimate task of vacation packing, where you realize that your suitcase must consist of more than just shorts and little else. And regardless of the type of trip, there are some suitcase staples that shouldn't go amiss. From the classic weekender to post-flight skincare , there is so much that goes into every detail from getting from point A to point B.

DNA Hoodie

Best Travel Hoodie

Pangaia dna hoodie.

Camberwell Credit Card Slip

Best Travel Wallet

Mulberry camberwell credit card slip.

QuietComfort Headphones

Best Noise-Cancelling Travel Headphones

Bose quietcomfort headphones.

990v4 Sneakers

Best Travel Sneakers

New balance 990v4 sneakers.

Passport Holder & Luggage Tags Set

Best Travel Accessories Set

Quince passport holder & luggage tags set.

Everyday Compression Socks

Best Travel Compression Socks

Bombas everyday compression socks.

Compressible Packing Cubes

Best Travel Packing Cubes

Monos compressible packing cubes.

Toiletry Bag

Best Travel Toiletry Bag

Briggs & riley toiletry bag.

Casa Pop-Up Desk

Best Work-From-Anywhere Travel Desk

Logitech casa pop-up desk.

Utilitech Carpenter Pant Straight Leg

Best Travel Pants

Lululemon utilitech carpenter pant straight leg.

You know that feeling that you're forgetting something? Well, eradicate that and commence travel with the reassurance that everything you need is right with you. So kick back, relax, and watch some crusty in-flight entertainment. Book your vacation and take a look at this packing list that you can finally rely on. Trust me, never ever leave home without checking these items off your list

We love a classic cotton hoodie, and this heavyweight one from Pangaia is a pure winner for warmth and comfort. Wear it on the plane, when you're exploring the options are endless.

Mulberry's leather is quality that we stand by. The slip card design comfortably fits everything you need and makes cards easily accessible to get through the TSA checkpoint and pay for the overpriced water without a hitch.

We're big proponents of noise-cancelling headphones for pretty much all things that require either a deep inner focus or a hard distance from the world outside. Bose's QuietComfort headphones silence the world (crying babies, crunching plane neighbors) around you.

Sometimes you just need to get there, and these sneakers will do the trick. And when you do get there, go stretch your weary plane legs on a long walk without having to change shoes.

Quince Passport Holder & Luggage Tags Set

Matching travel accessories are a small but mighty upgrade that make getting yourself together for traveling a little smoother. This RFID-blocking passport holder and luggage tag set ensure you know what you're looking for when digging in your bag.

These socks will reduce any swelling or numbness after a long flight, or a short one for that matter. Compression socks are your new favorite travel companion. These have a daily-use approved 15-20mmHg pressure.

If you haven't gotten on the packing cube wave yet, it's time. Keep your luggage from becoming a black hole of stuff with these little rectangles that keep your categories together neatly.

Briggs & Riley Toiletry Bag

Also good at keeping your stuff together: a good toiletry bag. Get a nice one that fits all of your travel-sized grooming things comfortably and you'll be set for a long time to come.

Working on the go sucks a little bit less when you aren't uncomfortably hunched over your laptop. Logitech's pop-up desk has a riser, keyboard, and track pad for making even a tiny space a little easier to work in.

Airplanes are meant for athleisure, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. These stretchy cotton-blend pants will make the hours of travel so much more bearable.

Alo Yoga Scholar Cardigan Sweater

Scholar Cardigan Sweater

A plane hoodie is great, but an open sweater can be even better if you tend to radically change temperatures throughout your travels. Good for layering up, leaving open, and wearing on the trip as well as the trek.

Patagonia Nano Puff Fitz Roy Trout Hoody

Nano Puff Fitz Roy Trout Hoody

A packable Patagonia jacket is one of travel's biggest upgrades. It's super warm, and makes for an excellent extra layer—especially when you're not sure what you'll need. It packs into a little cube, which can double as a travel pillow.

Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case

Remi Glasses Case

Those flexible glasses cases are fine day to day, but on a longer trip, something with more protection is in order. Pack your reading glasses and go-to sunglasses in a secure spot.

Tommy John Air Mid-Length Boxer Brief 6" (3-Pack)

Air Mid-Length Boxer Brief 6" (3-Pack)

This underwear is designed for being on-the-go and constantly in motion. Breathable and lightweight, it's made for long flights or road trips.

Caraa Remus

Remus

Caraa's Remus duffle bag fits a whole life and more inside of. There are smart compartments on the outside and on the inside, and the space for stuff in between is excellent. This is great for bringing packed lightly on the way there and packed heavy with souvenirs on the way home.

Vuori Tuvalu T-Shirt

Tuvalu T-Shirt

If there's one life tip to take away here it's that traveling in a workout T-shirt is the only way to go. They are designed to be sweat-wicking and not hang onto sweat, which is perhaps something your plane neighbors will thank you for more than anyone.

Kiehl's On-the-Go Essentials Set

On-the-Go Essentials Set

Get all your Kiehl's stuff to go with a whole set of skincare in a mini size.

Davek The Mini

The Mini

Tiny and adorable, this will save you from some unexpected weather. The micro design tucks away perfectly into your suitcase.

Twelve South AirFly

AirFly

Twelve South finally solved the ongoing conundrum of wanting to watch an airplane movie but only having Bluetooth headphones. This little guy makes that headphone-to-plane-TV connection for you.

Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

This lotion is the only thing keeping us safe under any sort of UV index. It's small in size and easy to put on. No reason not to bring it on every trip.

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Europe Travel Essentials: The ULTIMATE 2024 List

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Whether you’re visiting Paris in the summer or the Swiss Alps in the winter, it’s always helpful to have a guide to assist you with packing. I know if I didn’t use a Europe travel essentials list, I would probably forget everything from my passport to my suitcase.

During my years of traveling, I have been creating this comprehensive list of everything I personally own and use on my travels, and I would never recommend anything I don’t believe in. So, you can feel confident that I have tried and tested ALL of these products, and continue to use them on every trip I embark on!

If you are planning a trip and are researching “packing lists” or “essential travel items”, you’re probably going to find dozens of articles all stating the 30 items you absolutely must buy before traveling … and that is simply not true.

You don’t need to go out and spend a ton of money on items that you either won’t use at all or will only use once then forget about upon your return. I have linked to only 5 items below, and I can promise you that they will vastly improve your travel experience and you’ll use them time and time again.

While this list is mainly geared towards European travel, many of these items still come along with me on my travels all over the world. So, even if you aren’t going to Europe, this list is still very versatile. But if you are, be sure to check out my Greatest Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time !

Happy Travels!

Your FREE Travel Essentials Checklist is Here!

Get the ultimate travel checklist for your next trip abroad!

What are the Basic Travel Essentials?

When it comes to packing for a long trip, it’s very easy to get overwhelmed and forget even the simplest of items. That’s why I’ve created this basic Europe travel essentials list!

Europe Travel Essentials: Clothing

Your Europe travel essentials list should be comprehensive with everything from clothes to your personal items to your passport

* Quantity will vary based on season of destination and length of travel

Europe Travel Essentials: Toiletries

The right toiletries and cosmetics must be included on your Europe travel essentials list

* Prescriptions and medications must be accompanied by a letter from the doctor or prescriber for TSA approval

Europe Travel Essentials: Personal Items

Don't forget to note important items like your passport and visa on your Europe travel essentials list!

Carry-On Europe Travel Essentials

Your Europe travel essentials list will vary between your checked luggage and your carry-on

Now, it may seem simple enough to pack a carry-on bag, but there are a few things you really don’t want to miss. Unfortunately, airlines make mistakes sometimes and you could end up without your checked bag for the first couple of days (or more!) of your vacation.

To prevent ending up in Spain without a bathing suit or Norway without a jacket, be sure to follow these simple tips on your next trip abroad!

✔️ Always pack an extra set of clothing in your carry-on bag

This way, if your checked bag gets lost, you won’t be stuck in dirty clothes that you were stuck on an airplane for hours in.

This could also help you save a bit of money since you won’t have to buy any clothes at your destination while you wait for your bag to be returned to you!

✔️ If it’s cold in your destination, always keep your coat with you

I’ve fallen victim to the classic “I’ll just throw my coat in my bag, it’ll be comfortable on the flight” mindset, then they lost my bag and I ended up wandering around Germany for a few days in March with nothing but a few long sleeve shirts.

Running from store to bar to restaurant in 40 degree (Fahrenheit) weather made for some great laughs, but keeping my coat on my person would have saved me from catching a cold.

Likewise, if you’re hitting the beach in your destination, keep a change of clothes plus a bathing suit and sandals in your carry-on. Since most hotels provide towels, you won’t even notice your bag is missing!

✔️ Be prepared for an overnight

This means a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, a mirror and a small amount of makeup, deodorant, your phone charger, and whatever else you feel is essential to spend a night in a new destination.

Just remember to keep it light and only pack what you will need.

What Should I Not Forget to Pack on my Europe Travel Essentials List?

Do not forget to pack these items on your Europe travel essentials list

Outside of your Europe travel essentials list, there are a few items I highly recommend keeping room in your suitcase for! For me, travel is all about the experience. I love becoming fully immersed in new places, cultures, cuisines… you get it.

But, over my years of traveling around the world, I have found that ripping through my suitcase for that one shirt I wanted to wear and wasting money on purified water because I didn’t have a reusable water bottle with me negatively affected my travel experience.

So, after tons of research and years of testing out different products, these few items are the only ones I bring with me everywhere I go now.

I can personally say I have tried and tested each of these products, and would never recommend you anything I don’t believe would truly improve your travel experience.

Packing Cubes

To stay organized during my travels, I always pack everything in packing cubes . They come in fun colors and have a see-through mesh lining on top so there is no guessing where your favorite shorts might be.

They come in different sizes, allow for you to choose different amounts of cubes, and they even come with bags for your shoes! This is my all-time top Europe travel essentials list item.

There are several companies that make packing cubes, but I highly recommend Veken since theirs are made of waterproof fabric, are durable and extra thick so they won’t rip or tear easily.

I made the mistake of buying a cheap pair when I was first trying them out and they ripped before I landed in my destination… hence, go with Veken and save yourself the headache!

travel essentials list reddit

Reusable Water Bottle With A Filter

If you have traveled to a 2 nd or 3 rd world country before, it’s likely you have tasted water that wasn’t necessarily great for drinking… most travelers will know what taste I’m talking about. Even in Europe, there is a need for a reusable water bottle, especially if you plan on traveling further east of Germany.

While a normal reusable water bottle is great for the environment and helps save you some money, it isn’t very useful if the water you are putting into it is dirty. Unless you plan on boiling all of your water then waiting for it to cool, then you’ll want one with a filter.

This reusable water bottle with a built-in filter is my absolute favorite and never leaves my side whether I’m in Europe, the Caribbean, or the Galápagos Islands!

Mini Travel Bottles

I can’t say enough how much money these bottles have saved me. Retail stores love selling convenient mini lotions, shampoos, conditioners, face washes, etc., at a significantly higher markup than their larger bottles. Why?

It’s convenient for the buyer to not have to check a bag because of the size of their liquids. So, in the end, the buyer thinks they’re saving money by only spending a few extra dollars on travel-sized bottles versus checking a bag.

For a single week-long trip, you can spend upwards of $15 on travel-sized lotions, etc. So, by buying a reusable pack of TSA-approved bottles, you only make one purchase that will last for all of your future trips.

These mini travel bottles in particular are my favorite because they are already labeled for me so you don’t have to worry about putting lotion in your hair or soap on your legs after you’ve already showered!

They come in fun colors and also come with their own clear, travel-approved case which makes them easy to fly and get through security with, as well.

travel essentials list reddit

Universal Travel Adapter

If you plan on traveling outside of the U.S., this is absolutely essential. Not having the right adapter can actually be dangerous and can increase your chances of starting a fire.

This universal travel adapter is my personal favorite because it’s well made and the small, moveable parts don’t get stuck when you try to convert it for a different country.

The U.S. uses 110 volts to power appliances and such, whereas Europe and the U.K. use around 220 volts. Outlets will vary depending on the country, so a universal travel adapter should definitely be included on your Europe travel essentials list.

This one also comes with 4 USB hookups allowing you to charge multiple phones or cameras at once!

Power banks are great for when you are on the go and don’t have much time to go back to your hotel and charge up your phone while sightseeing. If you’re like me and use your phone for everything from Google Maps to your main camera, then this power bank will be your backup for when your phone dies.

It’s super lightweight, slim fit, charges quickly, and is adaptable to almost any device!

If you’re flying in the very back of economy with no outlets (this is where you’ll find me on all of my flights), then this power bank is a lifesaver when you land you realize your phone iPod, phone, or camera battery is almost dead. It’s also great for long car, bus, train, or ferry rides!

Easily one of the most important items on this Europe travel essentials list.

Essential Packing Tips

Follow these packing tips when putting together your Europe travel essentials list

Looking to get the most out of your new packing cubes? We’ve got some great tips to help!

✔️ Be sure to roll your clothes

This means carefully folding your clothes until their all tucked together, then rolling them up into a neat cylinder-shaped roll.

This helps limit wrinkles, allows you to fit more clothes in your packing cubes, and keeps everything neat and tidy.

✔️ Plan your outfits

Overpacking is a quick way to add on weight limit fees and become frustrated with the amount of clothes you’ll have to go through to find what you’re looking for.

Instead, check the weather, plan your outfits ahead of time, and roll them together for easy-to-grab convenience!

✔️ Separate your shoes from your clothes

If you purchased the Veken packing cubes above, then you’re in luck! The set comes with a travel bag just for your shoes and you won’t have to worry about getting your clothes dirty.

✔️ Pack a laundry bag or designate a packing cube for dirty clothing

Especially if you are traveling for more than a few days, dirty clothes can start to smell.

Bringing along a plastic bag to put dirty laundry in and then zipping it up inside its own packing cube can prevent the rest of your clothes from getting smelly, and keep you from wondering which socks are clean and which are dirty.

✔️ All liquids that go through TSA must be 3.4 ounces or under

This includes beverages, lotions, gels, liquid foundation, and perfumes that may be packed inside your carry-on bag. Larger liquids may be packed inside checked bags.

✔️ In addition to the size requirement, there is also a liquids limit

All of your carry-on liquids must be able to fit inside of a clear, quart-sized ziplock bag without bursting open.

✔️ Before packing your life away, be sure your suitcase is the right size

If you are flying economy, you’re typically allowed one personal item (purse, camera bag, or small backpack) and a carry-on. Carry-on bags must meet certain size requirements.

For example, United Airlines requires them to be a maximum of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 centimeters x 35 centimeters x 56 centimeters), including the handles and wheels. This will vary between airlines.

✔️ Keep all of your wires neatly folded and in a zipped-up case

Headphones, phones, cameras, and laptop chargers should all be tied together with elastic bands, then sealed in a zippered case of some kind. Be sure to include paper clips and twist ties on your Europe travel essentials list for this very reason!

This will prevent them from getting torn in zippers, lost in your luggage, and from taking over your purse, backpack, or suitcase.

✔️ Softer bags are better

You may think that your hard suitcase can survive any tossing from the crew below deck, but unfortunately, that’s not true.

Hard suitcases are far more likely to break during travel. Softer duffel bags can squeeze into tighter overhead spaces, under the seat in front of you, and can handle far more falls to the ground before ripping or tearing.

✔️ Never lock your suitcase before getting to the airport

If you have a suitcase with a built-in lock, keep it unlocked until after you land in your destination.

If your checked bag gets selected for an extra security check and they must get inside, they don’t come to find you on your plane… they simply break the lock open, ruining your bag.

So, you’re probably thinking, “what is the point of having a suitcase with a lock on it then if it can’t get locked until it is with me at all times?” Exactly.

Don’t buy these suitcases unless you plan on putting your travel insurance to the test on your next trip.

Things to Prepare Before Traveling

After you pack and before you hit the road, there’s usually a whole list of items that still need to get done.

From preparing your house to be empty to calling your credit card companies, be sure to make time to complete everything on this list that pertains to you!

Set Up Your Home For Your Absence

Preparing your home for vacancy is an important thing to include on your Europe travel essentials list

Whether you are leaving for a long weekend or a few months, there are certain steps you need to take when preparing your home to be vacant while you’re gone.

First, if it’s summer and you plan on leaving for over a week, you may want to hire someone to mow your lawn while you’re gone so you don’t come back to a jungle in your front yard. If it’s winter, having someone snow blow your driveway would also be helpful if there’s a storm while you’re away.

Also, if it’s winter, be sure to leave your heat on low! Turning off your heat entirely can lead to burst pipes and flooding… not what you want to find after hours of traveling back home.

Next, if you have any pets at home that need caring for, be sure to hire a pet sitter well in advance. I have a dog and I book our pet sitter typically 3 or 4 months before leaving for our trips!

Similarly, if you have a large garden that needs to be periodically watered , asking a neighbor for a helping hand isn’t a bad idea.

As for the indoors, unplug everything that doesn’t need power running to it . This includes toasters, microwaves, extra chargers, etc. Not only will this save you a little bit of money on your electric bill, but it will reduce the risk of an electrical fire while you’re gone.

Check that the stove and oven are completely turned off , the garage door is closed , all doors and windows are shut and locked , the dishes are done , and the trash and recycling have been taken out . This will prevent you from coming home to any foul odors, leaves in your living room, rain damage, etc.

Lastly, if you are close with your neighbors or have family or friends that live in the area, asking them to keep an eye on your house always helps calm the nerves. Even in “good” neighborhoods, a house that is vacant for days, weeks, or months on end is a target for unwanted visitors.

If you can afford to do so, hiring a live-in house sitter can solve all of your problems at once and leave you with just one person to contact in the case that you have any questions or there is an emergency.

What You Should Not Forget When Traveling

There are several items you don't want to forget to put on your Europe travel essentials list including your license, passport, and any necessary prescriptions.

It may seem obvious not to leave your passport or wallet on the kitchen counter, but it happens all the time. Including these things on your last-minute Europe travel essentials list will save you time, money, and possibly missing your flight!

Before traveling it’s important not to forget essential items like: your passport any necessary visas cell phone and charger wallet at least one paid off credit card for emergencies some currency local to your destination a government-issued photo ID your suitcase (yes, people even forget this) your camera and charger your itinerary with the confirmation codes for all of your flights, hotels, trains, ferries, buses, and excursions.

If you are traveling to a big city, you’ll most likely be able to pick up anything you forget as soon as you land. For smaller rural areas and airports, it’s going to be essential that you follow a checklist.

Typically, you’ll be able to buy clothing anywhere you go, but electronics can be difficult to find and personal belongings simply cannot be replaced.

The last thing you’ll want to make sure you have is travel insurance . I always use SafetyWing for their super affordable comprehensive plans, and unique coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and trip interruptions across the globe.

They have plans for both single and multi-country vacations and offer 24/7 customer assistance.

Over my travels, I have been slowly creating my travel essentials checklist so I would stop forgetting things on my trips. With it, I have saved hundreds of dollars , no exaggeration, on not having to buy replacement items in my destinations.

Now, I have sorted it into a convenient, easy-to-download pdf guide for you!

What To Do Before Traveling During COVID-19

Negative COVID-19 test results are very important to include on your Europe travel essentials list

Travel requirements are changing on a daily basis. It is very important that you use local and government websites to research COVID-19 entry and exit requirements when traveling. This article is NOT meant to be used as a primary resource for traveling requirements.

It’s unfortunate to say, but even in 2024, the COVID-19 virus is still very much present in our daily lives. Social distancing and masks are mandated in most regions across the world as are negative RT-PCR testing requirements.

If you are planning to travel in the upcoming months, there are a few things you will need to do to ensure a pleasant experience.

First, research all of the entry and exit requirements of your destination . Is a negative COVID test required? If so, what kind (RT-PCR or Rapid) and how long before arrival?

Do you need to quarantine on arrival? Do you need to test on arrival and quarantine while you wait for your results? Are there internal travel restrictions? Are masks mandated in public places?

Adhering to all of these requirements is essential to a successful trip, so be sure you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into before you plan your visit.

Second, if you do need proof of a negative COVID-19 test result within a certain timeframe of departing or arriving at your destination, be sure to book your COVID test in advance .

Tests at CVS can be booked up to 2 weeks in advance and typically provide results within 1-3 days (though result times may vary due to increases in testing volume).

Also, there is a chance that you will need to be vaccinated (and boostered) prior to arriving. Some countries have put in place vaccine requirements, and those who are not vaccinated (regardless of medical status) will not be allowed in the country.

Some countries will allow entry without vaccination with proof of medical documentation and a negative COVID-19 test result.

Lastly, you may be required to print and fill out a health form . Check with your airline and the local government before traveling. Many times, digital health forms will not be accepted.

✔️ Pro Tip: If you are planning to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, be sure to include all of these items on your Europe travel essentials list.

Other Helpful Resources for Europe

✔️ How to Plan a Trip to Europe: The ULTIMATE Guide for 2024 ✔️ The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: 101 Experiences to Have in Europe ✔️ Packing List for Europe in Winter: A Full Country by Country Guide ✔️ Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe ✔️ Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips ✔️ European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month ✔️ 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December ✔️ 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2024 ✔️ 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2024 ✔️ Is Azerbaijan in Europe? The Facts for 2024 ✔️ Is Norway in Europe? Norway & the EEA EFTA States ✔️ Is Denmark in Europe? The EU, the Danish Krone, & Its Territories Explained

The Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Europe Travel Essentials List

travel essentials list reddit

Whether you’re planning a 3-day vacation from Belgium to Luxembourg or a 2-week trip across Europe , having the perfect Europe travel essentials list with everything you need is key to a happy trip. We hope this one helps!

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Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Travel Fashion Girl

The Travel Essentials Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

travel-essentials-packing-list

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

travel-essentials-packing-list

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

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

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

THE PERFECT CAPSULE WARDROBE

WHERE AND WHEN ARE YOU TRAVELING?

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

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

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

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

GUIDELINES TO CHOOSE APPROPRIATE ITEMS

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

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

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

CUT: Good fit; every item must  mix and match

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

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

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

Sample Travel Essentials Packing List

10 Pieces of Clothing

Linen Scoop Tee

travel-essentials-packing-list

Washed-satin Cami Top

travel-essentials-packing-list

Sleeveless Drape Blouse

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Silk Long Sleeve Blouse

travel-essentials-packing-list

Calf-Length Oval Skirt

travel-essentials-packing-list

Floral Print Harem Pants

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Boyfriend Jeans

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Pleated Maxi Dress

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Draped Dress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

travel essentials list reddit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternate Travel Essentials Packing List Combinations

travel-essentials-packing-list

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

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

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

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

7 Tops + 3 Bottoms  (good for cold climates)

10 Dresses  (perfect for resort and tropical vacations)

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READ THE REST OF OUR SIGNATURE PACKING LISTS:

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

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

READY TO TRAVEL CARRY-ON ONLY?

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

Click here to stop overpacking for good!

PRINTABLE TRAVEL CHECKLIST

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Travel Essentials for Women: 33 Must-Haves

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Ladies, figuring out what you need to take with you on your trip can be a major headache…am I right? So, take the mystery out of it all and use our list of  travel essentials for women . 

From clothing to shoes and personal care items, we’ve totally got you covered. 

Traveling woman sitting on the edge of the water.

So, before you start packing, make sure you keep reading this travel essentials list for women. 

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Need help planning your trip? Check out our list of essential travel planning resources .   

Anti-theft travel purse 

An anti-theft travel purse is an absolute must. I never travel without mine. 

A good anti-theft crossbody also makes a good bag to carry  everything you’ll need for day trips . 

This Travelon anti-theft purse ( find it on Amazon )  is remarkably roomy for the size and includes  must-have anti-theft features : slash-resistant body panels and strap, locking zipper closures, RFID-blocking pockets, and lockdown strap. 

Don’t miss my full  review of the Travelon classic crossbody bucket bag for more complete details and my personal photos of the purse, so you can see how it looks in real life. 

Affordable laptop backpack 

While an anti-theft travel purse is essential for your trip, you might also need something a little larger. 

A backpack designed to carry a laptop ( check out this great option on Amazon ) is a great piece of travel gear and makes an ideal  personal bag for taking on flights . 

Look for a backpack that has a separate pocket designed to hold laptops and also includes a roomy main compartment to hold everything you need to survive a long flight . 

The front compartment will help you keep smaller items organized.

A strap on the back of the pack allows it to fit over your extended rolling carry-on handle. 

It even includes a small anti-theft pocket. I love anti-theft features in travel bags.

Free Packing Lists. Get the 5 essential packing lists that every traveler needs. Download today.

Travel insurance is an essential travel item 

You invest a lot of time and money in planning your travel.

You want it to go perfectly, but let’s face it…sometimes life happens.

People get sick, accidents happen, and things get lost or (sadly) stolen. 

We’re blessed to have never needed to file a claim with  travel insurance , but we love the peace of mind that comes with knowing our travel investment is covered. 

It’s a good idea to have travel insurance in case something goes wrong.  

If you get injured or seriously ill while you’re abroad, do you know that you’ll be able to get the medical care you need? 

Essential travel accessories 

Sleep mask .

Does your trip include a long-haul flight? Then a good quality sleep mask is a must to help you sleep on your flight . 

This mask ( buy it on Amazon ) is adjustable so you can get it to the pressure that’s perfect for you and completely block out light. 

And there’s plenty of room for your eyelashes so you can blink freely and won’t destroy your eye makeup.  

It’s hand washable and comes in a ton of fun colors and patterns to show off your personality.

woman sleeping in an airplane window seat

Reusable water bottle 

I never leave my house without a water bottle while I’m traveling. You’ll really love the Super Sparrow sport water bottle ( check it out on Amazon ) . It’s lightweight and spillproof. 

I love that I can toss it in my bag and I don’t have to worry about it leaking on anything. 

If you’re looking for an insulated bottle, you can’t go wrong with a Yeti rambler ( take a look on Amazon ). 

I love that it’s dishwasher safe. That’s a big selling point for me.

Portable charger 

Ladies, don’t forget that making sure that your phone is fully charged is an important part of  keeping safe while you travel .  

It’s essential to  pack a portable charger  to make sure your devices never run out of juice.

If you listen to music or watch videos as you travel, you can drain your battery much more quickly than you might realize. 

This one available on Amazon  is ultra-compact. It’s perfect for packing into your carry-on or day bag. 

Or try this high-capacity power bank ( buy it on Amazon ) so that you can charge more than one device at a time if you need it. 

Plastic storage bags in assorted sizes 

Pack at least a few each of several different plastic storage bags. You never know when you might need one when you travel. 

They’re great for random everyday uses like packing snacks in your day bag or keeping wet swimsuits or a few dirty clothes away from the rest of your clothes in your suitcase, etc. 

Back view of young woman enjoying beautiful seascape in Italy.

Shoes and clothing 

A fashion guru I am not, BUT there are a few basic items that I will recommend to any woman who loves to travel. 

These are things that I believe should be on every packing list…depending on your destination and time of year you’re traveling of course. 

The most comfortable flip-flops ever 

Havianas flip flops are essential for me any time that I travel.

They’re super comfortable and stylish enough to wear out and about. 

You can buy Havianas flip flops here on Amazon.  

They’re also great to just wear around your hotel room or to slip on quickly to make a quick ice run down the hallway. 

Comfortable casual shoes 

If you find a casual and comfortable shoe that works with many outfits, make sure you grab hold and never let go. 

TOMS are my go-to casual slip-on shoes for travel ( you can buy them on Amazon ).

They’re perfect for any kind of city break day trip. 

And they’re exceptionally lightweight and can be machine washed. I always air dry them to help them last as long as possible. 

I haven’t found another slip-on casual shoe that I like better. 

They even make vegan-friendly options.  

Hiking shoes 

Although a good pair of comfortable slip-on shoes are great for exploring in the city, there might be times when you need a more substantial shoe. 

If you’re going hiking, you’re going to want good support. I find hiking ankle boots too constricting, so that’s why I wear hiking shoes.

  Check out my favorite hiking shoes on Amazon . 

They’re comfortable and waterproof. 

In fact, they’re great for any outdoor activity, not just hiking. 

Their substantial soles are great for uneven terrain, like exploring ancient ruins in Rome …just as an example. 

Breathable waterproof rain shell 

Weather happens. You don’t want it to ruin your day of exploring. 

So, don’t forget to take a lightweight, packable, waterproof, breathable rain jacket with a hood. 

I’m in love with my Columbia Arcadia jacket. You can buy it here on Amazon.  

It will easily pack into any day bag…even a fairly small one. 

You really do want to make sure that it’s breathable.

Other waterproof jackets can be quite stifling and it can be very easy to get overheated quickly. 

Girl at the airport window

Warm packable vest 

If you’re going to be traveling in colder weather another great outerwear option is to take a light and packable puffer vest. 

I love Eddie Bauer vests. This one ( check it out on Amazon ) is machine washable, which I think is a great feature.

My Eddie Bauer down vest has lasted me for many seasons and I can’t imagine trying anything else.

In fact, mine has lasted so long they don’t even make that specific down vest anymore.

Waterproof fleece interchange coat

A jacket/coat that can be used in multiple ways has become one of my top travel essentials.

If you’re in the market for a 3-in-1 or interchange jacket, you simply must check out Columbia’s Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange jacket. I really love mine   Check the Bugaboo II price on Amazon here .

  • The outer layer is waterproof, breathable, and has a really good, adjustable hood. It’s noticeably warmer than a basic rain shell like the Arcadia II.
  • The inner layer is made from thermal-reflective fleece.
  • You can zip the fleece layer into the shell to make a cozy, waterproof coat or wear each layer separately.

Comfortable travel pants/hiking pants

Comfy travel pants or hiking pants are on my list of must-have travel essentials for almost every trip that includes at least a little bit of outdoor exploring.

I’m basically in love with my  Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up pants . They’re made of quick-drying, water-resistant fabric that also provides sun protection. They are SUPER comfortable for me. I love that they have a regular waste band but also an internal drawstring so you can adjust the fit.

They’re perfect for long days outdoors and are lightweight enough to work fine in warm weather. Plus you can roll them up when needed.

In cold weather, I like to wear a pair of thermal base layer leggings underneath.

These pants are high quality so they are a bit of an investment, but I totally think they’re worth it.

Set of travel bottles and towel in plastic bag inside a backpack

Beauty and personal care 

Okay, honesty time. 

Packing makeup and toiletries can be the thing I nitpick over even more than clothes, especially when traveling carry-on only . 

These are my top recommendations for toiletries.  

Travel-size skin care kit 

Favorite skin care products in travel sizes are perfect for your packing list. 

I never leave my Paula’s Choice skincare products behind when I travel.

The travel-size kit is small enough even to fit inside your one-quart liquids bag when packing toiletries for carry-on . 

High SPF sunscreen for the face 

Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days. 

Wearing a good sunscreen on your face every single day can help slow the signs of aging and even help prevent the effects of environmental damage. 

This is a great SPF 50 sunscreen for the face ( find it on Amazon ). There’s no white cast and it works great under makeup. 

It comes in a travel size too. 

Healing lip balm 

A good lip balm makes a wonderful travel companion. 

I never travel without a healing lip balm ( find my favorite on Amazon ), especially on those long, dry flights. 

packed liquids for a carry-on

Re-usable beauty product bottles 

If you don’t want to purchase travel-size beauty products, you could purchase reusable containers so that you can just take with you a bit of your favorite full-size products from home. 

Buy popular reusable containers on Amazon.  

Makeup remover wipes 

I never travel without Olay dry cloths ( find them on Amazon ) that you activate with water. That way I can travel with the exact amount I need. 

They never dry out like the moist towelette ones. 

When I travel, these replace any need for a liquid cleanser or face wash. 

You can even cut them in half to stretch them farther and save money! 

Wet wipes, tissues, and toilet seat covers 

I know these are far from glamorous but you’ll be glad that you have them. 

Travel packs of wet wipes are a good idea to pack, especially for use on planes, car rides, and just about every other traveling situation. These are my favorites, and you can buy them here on Amazon.  

Travel packs of tissues  and/or toilet seat covers (depending on where you’re traveling) make good additions to your travel purse or day bag. 

Miscellaneous first aid 

Pack a few first aid items like band-aids, alcohol wipes, and pain relievers just in case.

You want to be prepared in the event of a minor injury (like a cut or scrape) or headache or something. 

You can build your own kit from items you have at home and a small plastic storage bag. 

Or purchase a compact first-aid kit made for travel  like this one which you can find on Amazon here . 

Teeth hygiene and oral dental care products in golden travel cosmetic purse kit

Solid toiletries 

If you couldn’t already tell, I’m a big believer in traveling with carry-on luggage only , but doing that requires keeping toiletries to a minimum. 

If you’re staying in a hotel, you can minimize the toiletries you pack in your carry-on by using the products the hotel provides. 

To help travelers out with minimalist packing, there are a lot of liquid toiletries that can be replaced with solid versions .

They don’t need to be packed in your 1-quart liquids bag, which will free up space for you. 

For example, if you use a shampoo bar like this one ( check it out on Amazon ) you can leave shampoo out of your liquid toiletries bag all together. 

You can also get solid conditioner bars  like this one you can buy on Amazon here . 

Neutrogena makes my favorite solid sunscreen stick ( buy it on Amazon. ) 

You can even buy  solid lotion on Amazon  to help keep you moisturized while you travel (a great idea for long flights with all that drying air). 

More of the top travel accessories

Travel pillow/neck pillow.

Not everyone likes them, but if a neck pillow can help you sleep on your flight, you should go for it.

An inflatable travel pillow packs small ( check it out on Amazon) , so it’s a great option for packing in your carry-on bag. 

If you need more neck support in a travel pillow, you might try the Trtl Pillow  ( buy on Amazon ).

It’s designed to keep your head in an ergonomic position while you sleep. 

I think that getting lost in a good book is one of the best ways to pass the time on a long-haul flight.

It’s one of my most important travel essentials…as well as one of my road trip essentials.

In fact, I usually make sure that I have two or three e-books loaded in my Kindle app before any long journey (whether air travel or a road trip).

If you’re looking for your next great airplane read, check out my article about the  best airplane books .

Packing cubes

Compression packing cubes are a great way to  maximize the space in your suitcase . They help you organize and compress clothes, small items like accessories, and other items into neat bundles that fit snugly inside your luggage.

Plus when you use packing cubes it will help keep your things organized. This makes it easier to find what you need when you’re ready to use them.

Compression packing cubes also help keep everything securely packed in place while traveling so there won’t be any shifting around or spilling out of your bag during transit.

You’ll find a lot of different options online.  This popular set on Amazon  comes with four bags in three different sizes and a wide variety of colors.

young woman with a carry-on bag in an airport

Personal travel necessities

And don’t forget that some of the most important items for travel won’t be accessories to go out and shop for or buy online. Your women’s travel essentials list should also include some general travel essentials like:

  • Wallet (RFID blocking if you have it) with your travel credit cards in it. Use these so you’re earning points on all your purchases that you can redeem for more travel later.
  • important documents/travel documents

Final thoughts on travel essentials for women 

Part of having a great trip is being well prepared.

And when you have all of the essential travel items you need, you’ll definitely be well prepared. 

From clothing to shoes and from bags to personal care, these travel essentials will help you travel like a pro. 

More articles related to women’s travel essentials 

  • Essential travel planning resources  
  • Best tips for packing light  
  • Fun gifts for women who love to travel  
  • How to pack light for one week in a carry-on
  • How to pack your suitcase to maximize space
  • The best products for sleeping on a plane
  • Essentials for long flights  

Pin this post!  

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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Vietnam Packing List [Travel Essentials & What to Pack for Vietnam]

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Home » Vietnam Packing List [Travel Essentials & What to Pack for Vietnam]

Known for sparkling rivers, stunning beaches, and enchanting Buddhist pagodas, the South Asian country of Vietnam on the South China Sea attracts thousands of tourists to its beautiful land every year.

Being one of the most traditional countries in that part of the world, Vietnam has been known for its otherworldly charm that has but little to do with the fast and mundane lives of the West.

So, check out our extensive read about the Vietnam packing list, right away!

Tip: Check out our complete first-timers guide to planning a trip to Vietnam and our travel gear section here .

What to Bring to Vietnam?

Before we go well into the details about outfits, it’s imperative that you all about the absolute essentials which you would have to keep at hand at all times during your trip.

Hoi An Basket Boat Tour Vietnam

So, here’s what to pack for Vietnam!

1. The kinds of travel bags

It’s no secret that Vietnam is a place of absolute elemental beauty, fraught with rugged terrain and dense woods with uncompromising grounds. It would be foolish to expect smooth roads or city streets for most parts of this country.

Since you could expect to travel mostly on foot in Vietnam, especially if you aren’t at one of its bigger cities, it’s only wise for you to opt for a well-padded, weather-resistant backpack for the purpose.

Although you could find so many plush and comfortable variants in this department, an ideal alternative could be wheely bags and easy-push, lightweight convertible trolleys that allow you to carry them as backpacks easily on your trips.

Hoi An Ancient Town Vietnam

2. Personal care and hygiene

Well, it goes without saying that these are the very first things that you should pack for your trip to anywhere! And, in our opinion, for a place like Vietnam, you better not leave it to luck or anything of that sort to find a place like Walmart or something when you’re going to be trudging along the countryside.

So here’s a brief list of all the things that you need while packing for Vietnam!

Check out our recommendations for personal care and hygiene for women:

  • Everything related to feminine hygiene including sanitary pads , an extra pack of tampons or menstrual cups, hygiene washes and wipes.
  • Your own soap, shower gel, shampoo and sanitizers
  • Mosquito repellant and for very good reason (at all times!)
  • Pretty much everything associated with skincare from moisturizer to lip balm and everything in between!
  • A sunblock with high SPF and PA as you’re going to be traveling a lot. This is a pretty important thing for either gender.
  • Makeup (because can’t travel without that)
  • Your own toothpaste and toothbrush, manicure and pedicure kits
  • Body talc, facial wipes, and deodorant

How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Check out our recommendations for personal care and hygiene for men:

  • Soaps, body gels and shampoo
  • Skincare: moisturizer, lip balms, etc.
  • Sunblock with high SPF and PA (because men need it too!)
  • Wet wipes, an extra pack of tissues
  • Shaving and grooming kit , a handy nail cutter and files, etc.

Hanoi to Sapa Day Trip

3. Medicines and first-aid kits

Now even if you did miss out on a thing or two from the personal hygiene slot while packing up, make sure that you don’t miss out on any of what we’re going to discuss right now. Packing a proper first-aid kit and med-pack should actually be at the top of your list.

And these are all that you’d require to make your kit:

First-aid kit

Check out our recommendations for first-aid kit:

  • Gauze pads (a minimum of 4 by 4 inches)
  • A small pack of adhesive bandages
  • Two large gauze pads (8 by 10 inches)
  • A gauze roller bandage
  • Two triangular bandages
  • Antiseptic , wound cleaning agents such as betadine
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • Two elastic wraps , adhesive tape, and a splint

Tailored Dress made in Hoi An Vietnam - Hoi An Tailors

Check out our recommendations for a medi-pack:

  • Sterile gauze pads
  • Medicines for stomach problems
  • Analgesics and pyrigesic
  • Meds for cough and the common cold
  • Vitamin C tablets
  • Antiseptic ointments and sanitizers

You could also keep a resuscitation kit at hand that would include everything from the mask, pocket airways, and resuscitation bag.

Victoria Hoi An Vietnam

4. Travel electronics

Check out our recommendations for travel electronics:

  • Multi-port chargers
  • Your phone and its respective charger
  • Laptop or iPads and their respective chargers
  • Headphones and headphone splitters (if you’re traveling with someone)
  • Your camera (obviously)
  • Wires and data cables
  • Power banks (really important!)

5. Other accessories

Check out our recommendations for other travel accessories:

  • Packing Cubes
  • Sleeping bags and sheets
  • Water coolers, preferably with a water filtration system
  • Large flashlights
  • Smaller LED flashlights
  • A microfiber towel
  • Sunshades! (a must)
  • A Vietnamese dictionary on your phone
  • Headwear (if you plan to ride a bike)
  • Ziplocks (immensely important!)

6. Travel documents

Check out our recommendations for travel documents that you may need:

  • Passport (should be valid for the next six months from your arrival or entry in Vietnam)
  • Return ticket (immigration officer might just ask to see it)
  • Accommodation confirmation
  • Travel Insurance
  • Photocopies of your Visa and passport

What to Wear in Vietnam & What to Pack

So this is actually the most challenging part of the packing list for Vietnam. As we’ve already mentioned, this traditional country abides by certain strict rules when it comes to the correct Vietnam attire and anybody coming into their land is expected to respect the cultures of the country, especially while traveling to holy and sacred places.

Phap Tran Hoi An basket boat tour

Although there are no restrictions as such for western clothes in that sense, the only thing to avoid primarily is showing skin all that much.

Some of the basics that your packing list for the Vietnam trip should include are:

Check out our recommendations for what to pack for Vietnam for a woman:

  • Cotton shirts (pack at least 1)
  • Dresses (pack a long and a short one)
  • Shorts (pack two sports types and a regular/denim type)
  • A pair of leggings (could be used underneath a skirt)
  • A long sleeve (useful for places where you’d need to cover yourself up)
  • Socks (3-4 pairs depending on where you’re going, especially if you’re planning to visit North Vietnam in the winter) (check out our recommended compression socks for travel here )
  • Walking and hiking shoes
  • A lightweight sarong or a big scarf that you could use with leggings at sacred places
  • A pair of walking or hiking shoes
  • A pair of flip-flops or casual sandals
  • A lightweight rain jacket
  • A security/waist belt

Indochina Junk Halong Bay Relaxation

(Lingerie/swimwear)

Check out our recommendations for swimwear:

  • Could pack two regular and two sports bras
  • Two pairs of bikinis if you’re going to hit the beach
  • 5-6 pairs of underwear

Check out our recommendations for what to wear for men:

  • A pair of travel shorts, preferably with a lot of pockets and two pairs of regular shorts
  • 4-5 cotton T-shirts with one athletic one (you could also pack a couple of tank tops)
  • A pair of long trousers
  • A thin long-sleeved shirt
  • 3-4 pairs of socks
  • A couple of pairs of lightweight swim shorts
  • A pair each of hiking/walking shoes or boots, closed shoes, flip-flops/sandals
  • Check out our recommendations for men’s travel gadgets here

Halong Bay Cruise Package Reviews

Packing for kids

If you’re traveling with kids to Vietnam, there could be a few stuff that you may not get there easily. In these cases, do include the following in your Vietnam packing list :

  • All of their medications along with prescriptions
  • Cotton clothes
  • Entertaining or recreational stuff (toys, coloring books , tv shows to watch, storybooks, travel books , etc.)
  • Toilet papers and wet wipes
  • Rubbish bags (avoid littering!)
  • Comfortable footwear, swimwear, floaters, and goggles
  • Sunblock for kids
  • Sufficient supply of underwear, hats , water-bottles
  • Detangling hairspray, hair ties, and combs
  • And their own suitcase because every kid needs one!

Vietnam Markets

Additional Information for Vietnam

Check out our recommendations for additional reading for before you venture out to Vietnam:

  • Check out our 5-day itinerary for North Vietnam here
  • Find out the 10 best places to visit in Vietnam
  • Take a look at 10 best tour packages in Vietnam here
  • Read about our recommendations for best resorts and hotels in Vietnam

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IMAGES

  1. A list of your travel essentials

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  2. Travel Packing Essentials for Women And A Free Printable Checklist

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COMMENTS

  1. What's in your packing list? : r/travel

    6 pairs of socks and underwear in separate freezer bags with a dryer sheet in each. Extra pair of cargo pants, usually tan or sand colour. One pair of shorts. Travel pack of flushable toilet wipes, usually Cottonelle. Travel pack of sanitizer wipes, usually Wet Ones. Tooth brush and tooth paste.

  2. Essentials for travelling : r/TravelHacks

    A printout of your airplane ticket, and photocopies of your passport, any other identification, and credit cards. If you lose anything, this will make your life SO much easier when you go through the replacement process. Noise-cancelling headphones. They take air travel to the next level of comfort.

  3. /r/SoloTravel: Where traveling solo is traveling social!

    Travel backpacks tend to be carry-on compliant up to 40L (in some brands: 45L), depending on the dimensions. Even for months-long or indefinite travel, you should generally not need more than 40L. Buying a larger backpack will just encourage you to overpack. Backpacks come in two styles: 'top-loading' and 'front-loading'.

  4. What are your non-obvious travel essentials? : r/travel

    Anti perspirant (Not deo), Wet wipes (for face or for arse cleansing), plastic bags. 3. [deleted] • 8 yr. ago. Anti-perspirant, wet wipes and a toothbrush go in the personal bag (not the checked bang or carry on but on me at all times bag) for EVERY trip, even short domestic flights. 3.

  5. Packing list for Southeast Asia long term travel. First timer ...

    2x shorts. 1x pants (good enough for a nice-ish bar/restaurant) 1x swimwear. 1x sweater (good for flights/bus/rooms with strong A/C) Rain jacket/poncho (for rain season but if you don't have one today wait until you get there) 1x sneakers/running shoes (i have a neutral pair if needed for a nicer bar in big city)

  6. Seeking recommendations- Any travel accessories change your life?

    Compression Socks. And for hot areas a Coolmist Waterbottle to spray mist on me. Mist is better to cool down than a portable fan. Fan will stimulate your shiver response (and so make your body conserve heat) whereas mist will stimulate the sweat response which is how your body cools down.

  7. The Ultimate Packing List: 43 Must-Have Travel Items (by a Full-Time

    Here are the non-negotiable travel safety essentials that come with us on every single trip: Money Belt & Bra Pocket: Carrying a wallet in your pocket is pretty much an open invitation for pickpockets. Stash your cards and cash away in harder-to-reach places, like underneath your clothing, instead!

  8. What are some travel essentials you swear by that aren't on ...

    Shop Collectible Avatars. Scan this QR code to download the app now. Or check it out in the app stores. Call of Duty: Warzone. Hollow Knight: Silksong. Watch Dogs: Legion. Philadelphia 76ers. Share. Reply Reply More replies reply Reply more replyMore repliesMore replies Reply reply more replyMore repliesMore replies.

  9. 22 Travel Essentials You Should Pack For Your Next Trip

    2 - Earbuds — This is one item most travelers forget at home, which is why airlines are now charging for them! But the earbuds given out (or sold) on flights are not high quality. Pack your own so that you can listen to music, your favorite podcast or book, even watch a movie during travel days. Also, I know big headphones are also really ...

  10. The Best Packing Tips and Hacks from Reddit

    Packing Tip #4: Fabrics Are Your Friends. "Always pack at least one quick-dry outfit. Ideally, pack ALL quick-dry items. Nothing you take should require more than 12 hours to dry.". - Hakote ...

  11. Essential Travel Gear to Pack for Long Trips, According to Redditors

    A viral Reddit thread is revealing the underrated vacation gear avid travelers swear by. By Opheli Garcia Lawler. Published on 1/3/2024 at 4:13 PM. Olga Rolenko/Moment/Getty Images. Most packing ...

  12. The Best Reddit Buy It For Life Travel Products

    Reddit Swears by These 9 Travel Essentials That'll Last You for Life — From $25 . Invest in durable, high-quality items to save money and cut down on waste in the long run.

  13. 22 Long Haul Flight Essentials: The Must-Haves to Carry On (2022)

    Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle as one of your carry-on essentials so that you don't have to wait for beverage service on the plane to drink water. Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle. $16.99. Lightweight; comes in multiple sizes and colors. Interchangeable lids: straw, wide-mouth, and hot beverage.

  14. What to Pack for an International Trip: A Complete Checklist

    5/5. Quality. 5/5. Value. 5/5. Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we're such major advocates for the Gonex Compression ...

  15. 31 Carry-On Essentials Our Editors Swear By

    Once I was on a 16-hour flight, seated in front of the chattiest passenger. (He was going to Cape Town, then Australia, Singapore, and Hawaii, if you were wondering.He also loves 90 Day Fiancé.) ...

  16. 28 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

    Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer. Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles ...

  17. 33 Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack in 2024

    Caraa Remus. $338 at caraa.co. Caraa's Remus duffle bag fits a whole life and more inside of. There are smart compartments on the outside and on the inside, and the space for stuff in between is ...

  18. Europe Travel Essentials: The ULTIMATE 2024 List

    Europe Travel Essentials: The ULTIMATE 2024 List. By Emily Concannon Updated on December 18, 2023. Whether you're visiting Paris in the summer or the Swiss Alps in the winter, it's always helpful to have a guide to assist you with packing. I know if I didn't use a Europe travel essentials list, I would probably forget everything from my ...

  19. Travel Essentials Packing List: Pack Like a Pro

    This Travel Essentials packing list is the ideal capsule wardrobe for travel. You can easily travel with only ten pieces for Round the World trips, two week vacations, or even weekend travel. For cold weather, please read these tips. Depending on the length of your trip there's a good chance you'll need to do laundry.

  20. Travel Essentials for Women: 33 Must-Haves

    Your women's travel essentials list should also include some general travel essentials like: Wallet (RFID blocking if you have it) with your travel credit cards in it. Use these so you're earning points on all your purchases that you can redeem for more travel later. important documents/travel documents. ID. Cell phone.

  21. The Ultimate EDC Camping Packing List: 50 Essentials For The Perfect

    14. Battery-powered fan. If I had to bring just five top essentials to EDC camping, this would hands-down be at the top of the list. As a matter of fact, bring 2-3 of these battery-powered fans, because everyone will want to plop themselves down in front of a fan during the day. One is never enough!

  22. Paris Travel Guide 2024

    Get the Reddit app Scan this QR code to download the app now. Or check it out in the app stores TOPICS. Gaming ... Paris Travel Guide 2024 - I love Paris: Paris Travel Book. Travel essentials for your bucket list trip. Europe travel essentials for Disneyland, Versailles and more. (Swissmissontour Reiseführer) ($8.95 to Free) ...

  23. Vietnam Packing List [Travel Essentials & What to Pack for Vietnam]

    Rainwear. A Vietnamese dictionary on your phone. Headwear (if you plan to ride a bike) Ziplocks (immensely important!) 6. Travel documents. Check out our recommendations for travel documents that you may need: Passport (should be valid for the next six months from your arrival or entry in Vietnam) Your Visa.