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

Published September 19, 2023

Written by:

Laura Lopuch

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

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

Protect your laptop when you fly.

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How to Pack for a Business Trip

Carry on plus personal item.

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

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

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

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

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

Roll Your Clothes and Pack Them in Packing Cubes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Business Trip Packing List

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

Let’s start with the basics.

• Copy of itinerary
• Boarding pass
• Transportation and accommodations

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

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

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

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

Electronics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clothes: Business Travel Wardrobe

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

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

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

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

Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

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

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

• 1 lightweight t-shirt to dress up or down

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

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

• 1 dark-colored blazer or suit jacket

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

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

2 Bottoms and 1 Dress

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

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

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

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

3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

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

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

2 Pairs of Shoes

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

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

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

1 Set of Pajamas

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

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

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

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

2 Dress Shirts and 1 Casual T-Shirt

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

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

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

2 Pairs of Pants

• 2 pairs of pants and/or  jeans

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

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

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

1 Blazer or Jacket

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

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

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

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

• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

5-Day Business Trip Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

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

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

What to pack for an overnight business trip:

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

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

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Max Carry On Size

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

She believes travel is the great educator — and vital to our humanity.

Read more from Laura

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What to Pack for a Business Trip: A Men’s Guide to Work Travel Wardrobes

If you’re headed out on a business trip, the last thing you want to worry about is packing. You want to focus on growing your business or career.

The best way to accomplish this? Systemize the way you pack.

With a go-to approach for how and what to pack for a business trip, you won’t sweat the small stuff.

We’ve put together strategies for men on how to pack for a business trip and what to bring as well. Follow these simple steps to prep you for your next out-of-town event.

How to Pack for a Business Trip: Pointers for Men

Have you ever wrestled with your suitcase, trying to jam-pack it with everything you need? Or have you shown up to your location under-packed and underprepared?

The reason many men run into these issues is that they don’t have the right pieces in their closets. Before we get into how to pack for a business trip, we have to start with your wardrobe. 

At Next Level Wardrobe , we have a proprietary style system that we use on all our clients: 

• Focus on core colors
• Invest in essential pieces
• Get the perfect fit

Why did we design this system this way? To help clients get the most out of their clothing and to bring confidence and intentionality to how they dress. The more versatile and streamlined your clothing, the easier it is to pick out what you need for your travels. 

Once you’ve taken care of that, we can get into how to pack your suitcase for a business trip.

How to Pack Your Suitcase for Work Travel

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

Our founder, Cassandra Sethi always knows what to pack for a business trip. 

She uses the same packing system every time. This method works no matter the trip length. She even recently used it on a six-week trip for her and her husband. Here’s a breakdown for you to follow:

• Start by laying out all your items to pack. Consult your itinerary and think about what outfits you’re going to need for what events. Identify when you can repeat an outfit or piece.  The best way to have a limitless outfit rotation is to focus on core colors: black, white, grey, and navy. They always go together, and they’re cornerstones of professional wear. 
• Begin packing your pants. Fold each pair in half to cut down on wrinkles and to keep your pants flat.
• Collect any knit (aka T-shirt material) shirts and roll them. This method is a space saver and perfect for casual shirts because you don’t have to stress about wrinkles.
• Grab your sweaters and button-down shirts and fold them as usual. Again, aim to keep them flat and crisp to maximize space and avoid wrinkling. Take those pieces and lay them over the rolled tops.
• Pack your shoes in a shoe bag. This is KEY. Do you really want whatever you’ve been walking on all day all over your nice clothes? We can’t tell you how many times we’ve seen people do this and it needs to stop. You can use anything from a drawstring pouch to a travel case to an old shopping bag. 
• Just like we don’t want shoes rolling around, we want toiletries all in one place too. Keep them in a travel kit like this one we love from Amazon. Place them next to your shoes or in a zip compartment for easy access. 

You can watch all of this in the above Instagram reel as well.

That’s the basics of how to pack for a business trip. But for menswear, one thing’s missing: suits. 

How to Pack a Business Suit for Travel

Photo Credit: Pexels

If you’re debating what to pack for a business trip, a suit may be just what you need. Especially for formal settings. 

The truth is, the only way to truly avoid wrinkles is to use a garment bag and hang your suit. If you’re traveling by car, this is a no-brainer. Simply hang the suit from one of the grab handles in the back of the car. 

If you’re flying, you’ve got a couple of options. One is to fold your garment bag in half carefully and place it in the overhead compartment. The other option is to see if your airline has closets at the front of the plane. Then you can ask your flight attendant if you can store your suit there until landing. 

If a garment bag isn’t an option, here’s a suit folding method that Brooks Brothers recommends.

First, lay your suit jacket face down. Then, fold one of the shoulders back. Take the other shoulder and turn it inside out. Take the shoulder you folded back and tuck it into the inside-out one. Fold the suit jacket in half vertically and then horizontally. 

If you have a plastic hanging bag from a dry cleaner, place the jacket inside for extra protection. 

Finally, place the jacket in the center of your suit trousers that you’ve folded in half lengthwise. Fold the trousers over the jacket and you’ve got the ideal suit bundle to place in your luggage.

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Our Men’s Clothing Packing List

Deciding what to pack for a business trip depends a lot on where you’re going, when, and for how long. The packing list possibilities are endless so we can’t give you a list for every scenario. 

But we can give you a place to start for every dress code. 

Picture a 3-day trip in the fall with daytime meetings and 2 dinners in the evening. From formal to business casual to true casual, here’s a run down on what to pack.

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Business Formal Attire

This is a sample of actual outfits we’ve put together for clients needing formal business attire.

Your formal business trip packing list should include:

– 2 suits: grey and navy – 3 long sleeve button down shirts: white – 2 pairs of shoes: brown and dark brown – 2 non-denim trousers – 1 lightweight sweater – 2 short sleeve tees – 1 sportcoat

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Business Casual Attire

This is a sample of actual outfits we’ve put together for clients needing business casual attire.

When packing for a business casual work trip bring:

– 2 pairs of shoes: brown and dark brown – 2 non-denim trousers – 3 lightweight sweaters – 3 short-sleeve tees (T-shirts/polos) – 2 layering pieces (sportcoat and jacket)

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Casual Attire

This is a sample of actual outfits we’ve put together for clients needing casual attire.

Casual attire business trip packing should include:

– 2 pairs of shoes: boots and sneakers (Check out our guide to Tech CEO sneakers to help you pick the right pair.) – 2 non-denim trousers – 3 lightweight sweaters – 3 short sleeve tees (t-shirts and/or polos) – 2 layering pieces (jackets)

What to Pack for a Business Trip: The Best Men’s Accessories, Miscellaneous Essentials to Pack

The above lists should have you set on what to pack for a business trip. But to fill in the gaps, there are a few items that should make the cut as well.

For example, a belt is a must for all trousers. We recommend only bringing one and opting for dark brown. This shade is versatile and neutral while feeling more contemporary than the classic old-school black belt.

Another essential is travel-sized toiletries to keep in your toiletry bag. This way, you won’t worry about shopping once you land and you’ll have all your favorites on hand.

When heading to a formal event, bring along cuff links and a tie. You can always roll the tie and easily fit it into your suitcase.

Finally, we often get clients asking about bringing workout clothes on their trips. If staying active is part of your routine, keep it light. Bring 2 bottoms and 3 shirts.

What to Pack for a Business Trip: FAQ

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

How do avoid under-packing or overpacking?

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: owning the right clothes is the best way to avoid packing dilemmas. Get ahead of your next trip and conduct a closet clean-out . 

You should only be left with the clothes you actually love and wear. If you notice any gaps in your wardrobe, put together a shopping list and only buy those must-haves. From there you’re packing path is clear.

This is my first business trip or my first with a new company. How do I figure out the dress code?

Honestly, your best bet is to ask someone. Check with a peer who’s attended this type of event before or ask your boss. You can also Google images of past attendees if you’re headed to a conference or summit.

If you’re still confused about the dress code, follow your office’s dress code. And if your office doesn’t have a dress code, start here .

Any suitcase or luggage recommendations?

We’re big fans of the brand Tumi . They’ve got options for every type of packer from backpacks to carry-ons to full-sized luggage. Sleekly designed, Tumi luggage also comes with an incredible warranty that covers most damages during the first few years.

What about shoes? They take up so much space, how can I choose the right ones to bring?

Looking over our packing lists, you probably noticed we didn’t go wild with shoes. That’s because, for your average business trip, you don’t need that many. 

Photo Credit: Cole Haan

The key is to purchase neutral, versatile shoes that can pull double-duty. Like these brown oxfords from Cole Haan. Partner them with trousers and a dress shirt for daytime meetings. Then change out your shirt for a cable-knit sweater for a dinner out.

The above shoes are perfect for formal or business casual. If you’re in a casual environment you can wear a luxe pair of sneakers (not Allbirds please!)

Is there an easy way for me to not have to iron everything? I won’t have the time.

One of the reasons we recommend our suitcase packing method is because it cuts down on wrinkles. If you follow that method, you shouldn’t have extra ironing and pressing to do once you get to your destination. 

If you’re really worried about wrinkles, wrap your more delicate items in a plastic bag. This adds another barrier between your clothes and other items that might leave indents. Also, try to avoid packing those crease-prone items too tightly since that’s more likely to leave marks on your clothing. 

Ready to have an expert systemize your wardrobe and packing style? Sign up for one of our men’s styling services . We offer image consulting services virtually and in person to transform your personal brand through

About the Author - Cassandra Sethi

Personal Stylist & Image Consultant

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

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

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The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List

Here are the best clothes, shoes, luggage, and more for your next business trip.

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Packing Checklist for a Business Trip

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Traveling for work isn't as relaxing as going on vacation , but it can certainly be exciting. The key to helping your business trip run as smoothly as possible is planning ahead. So, what do you need, and what should you bring? We have you covered.

"When traveling on a business trip , you're going to be meeting a lot of people, you might have long nights (including a few nightcaps), and you're probably going to be on the go," says travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.

With this in mind, you'll want to bring pieces you can mix and match for different events, as well as comfortable footwear, practical accessories, and lightweight luggage. Find expert business travel tips and our curated recommendations below.

We rounded up everything from wrinkle-free apparel and supportive shoes to must-have accessories and thoughtfully designed bags to get you through your next business trip.

Daywear for Women

• Best Slacks: Everlane Tencel Way-High Taper Pant
• Best Business-casual Trousers: Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pant
• Best Blouse: Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse
• Best Sleeveless Top: M.M.LaFleur The Nora Top

Eveningwear for Women

• Best Day-to-night Dress: Modern Citizen Iman Cotton Twill Split-Hem Dress
• Best Sweater: Banana Republic Bella Merino Sweater Polo
• Best Blazer: Spanx The Perfect Blazer
• Best Overcoat: Loft Two Button Coat

Daywear for Men

• Best Trousers: Lululemon Commission Classic-Fit Pant
• Best Chinos: Bearbottom Stretch Chino Pant
• Best Button-down: UntuckIt Wrinkle-Free Performance Gironde Shirt

Eveningwear for Men

• Best Dress Shirt: Bonobos Desk To Dinner Shirt
• Best Slacks: Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers
• Best Blazer: Zara Stretch Blazer
• Best Overcoat: Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Best Shoes for Women

• Best Flats: Naturalizer Samantha Half d'Orsay Flat
• Best Loafers: Nisolo Emma Loafer
• Best Heels: Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel
• Best Travel-day Shoes: Vionic Zinah Slip On Sneaker

Best Shoes for Men

• Best Loafers: Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer
• Best Dress Shoes: Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Oxford
• Best Travel-day Shoes: Moral Code Kai Sneaker

Accessories

• Best Belt: Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt
• Best Wallet: Leatherology Slim Zip Travel Wallet
• Best Travel Tech Kit: Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio
• Best Portable Charger: Nimble Champ Portable Charger
• Best Water Bottle: Monos Kiyo UVC Water Bottle
• Best Carry-on: July Carry On Pro
• Best Checked Suitcase: Solgaard Check-In Closet
• Best Packing Cubes: Away The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 4)
• Best Toiletry Bag: Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag
• Best Laptop Bag: CalPak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

When deciding what clothes to pack for a business trip, make sure you have something to wear to every scheduled event while still avoiding overpacking . The key is to bring versatile pieces you can mix and match for various occasions that easily transition from day to night. Also, wrinkle-free materials are always a plus.

Best Slacks

Everlane tencel way-high taper pant.

Our favorite women's slacks for travel come from Everlane. As the name suggests, Way-High Taper Pants have a high-rise waist with side pockets and flattering, professional-looking pleats. Sustainably sourced from wood pulp, the ultra-soft, wrinkle-resistant Tencel lyocell fabric is perfect for packing.

Best Business-casual Trousers

Athleta brooklyn ankle pants.

For something that leans more business-casual, go with the Brooklyn Ankle Pant. These soft, stretchy trousers are comfy enough to wear on the plane yet sophisticated enough to wear to a business meeting or networking event. We also love that they come in an inclusive range of 16 sizes in regular, tall, and petite fits.

Best Blouse

Quince silk notch collar blouse.

Made of 90 percent silk and 10 percent spandex, this blouse drapes perfectly, and has a subtle sheen and a nice stretch. It's easy to tuck into skirts or pants, while the tailored collar elevates any professional ensemble. Best of all, the washable design is nowhere near as delicate as most silk shirts.

Best Sleeveless Top

M.m.lafleur the nora top.

M.M.LaFleur

If you're traveling to a warmer climate or just need more daytime options, this one's for you. The Nora Top is a drapey, boat-neck, sleeveless shirt that promises to resist wrinkling, while an anti-odor finish helps prevent smelly armpits during your next meeting. It also layers beautifully under a blazer and is conveniently machine-washable.

Best Day-to-night Dress

Modern citizen iman cotton twill split-hem dress.

Modern Citizen

The best clothes for business travel transition seamlessly from day to night — that's why we love Modern Citizen's super-versatile Iman Dress. The flattering silhouette is slightly fitted but definitely not too tight, with ruching at the waist and a split hem in the back that ensures you can move around with ease. You can wear this dress on its own, with a blazer, or under a long coat.

Best Sweater

Banana republic bella merino sweater polo.

Banana Republic

It's always good to have a nice sweater on hand during a business trip. We love this one from Banana Republic, which is made of 100 percent merino wool. It features a pull-over design with a folded camp-style collar and a slightly relaxed fit that's easy to tuck into pants, or wear untucked if you prefer a more casual look.

Best Blazer

Spanx the perfect blazer.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Appropriately dubbed "The Perfect Blazer," this versatile outerwear piece from Spanx is just the thing for your next work trip. It's made of stretchy, smoothing ponte fabric and features a slightly longer cut that layers beautifully over virtually any top. The easy-going material is also machine-washable and a breeze to care for — no dry-cleaning necessary.

Best Overcoat

Loft two button coat.

For something a bit warmer, reach for the Two Button Coat. It has a relaxed fit that layers effortlessly over any professional outfit, while notched lapels, flap pockets, and a button closure offer a professional appeal. This coat is also machine-washable, so you don't have to worry about dry-cleaning.

Best Trousers

Lululemon commission pant.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a guy who doesn't prefer these pants over regular trousers — lululemon knows a thing or two about travel pants . And in true lululemon fashion, they're made of a breathable, sweat-wicking, non-wrinkling performance material. But thanks to the traditional fly, belt loops, and snap-button pockets, they look just like any other business-ready pants.

Best Chinos

Bearbottom stretch chino pant.

If the perfect chinos exist, you're looking at them. Woven from cotton with a hint of spandex, these midweight pants are structured and breathable with just the right amount of stretch. The tapered ankle makes them an ideal choice to wear with business-casual sneakers, loafers, Oxfords, or Chelsea boots.

Best Button-down

Untuckit wrinkle-free performance gironde shirt.

If you're looking for wrinkle-proof shirts for business trips, UntuckIt has you covered. Not only does the Gironde Shirt never need ironing, but it also wicks away sweat and is the perfect length to wear untucked with your work pants of choice. You might want something that tucks in for evening looks, but this is undoubtedly a great daytime option you'll be glad to have at the ready.

Best Dress Shirt

Bonobos desk to dinner shirt.

As the name implies, the Desk To Dinner Shirt can be worn all day at business meetings, then into the night while schmoozing with clients over dinner or drinks. The slim-fit design can be tucked into pants or worn untucked for a more laid-back look, and you can count on the collar to stay in place no matter how you wear it — or how long.

Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers

Suitsupply's Vigo Trousers feature a high-rise waist and a tailored, slim-fit cut with a single pleat down the front and modern cuffed ankles. They're formal enough to wear to a nice dinner with loafers and a crisp dress shirt but also versatile enough to rock with a pair of clean leather sneakers.

Zara Stretch Blazer

This straight-fit men's blazer from Zara is great for layering over button-down shirts, polos, crewneck sweaters, or crisp T-shirts. The material is wrinkle-resistant and lightweight, making it a go-to for business trips or wearing on the plane.

Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Charles Tyrwhitt

This is technically a raincoat because of its water-repellent finish, but it works perfectly as a versatile and lightweight overcoat as well. The hoodless design is made of an extra-stretchy, wrinkle-proof material that's easy to pack and unlikely to stain if you spill coffee or a cocktail.

Shoes take up a lot of space in a suitcase, so you'll want to bring no more than two or three pairs, including what you wear en route to your destination. Think ahead to the meetings or events you'll be attending, consider the formality of each occasion, and prioritize comfort.

Naturalizer Samantha d'Orsay Flat

These sleek pointed-toe flats are more than just flattering and versatile — they're also exceptionally comfy. Boasting contoured footbeds with arch support, cushioning, and full-foot flexibility, they'll keep your feet happy for hours on end.

Best Loafers

Nisolo emma d'orsay oxford.

Nisolo makes our favorite women's loafers. Featuring a feminine d'Orsay silhouette, the Emma is a polished, easy-on loafer that goes with just about any professional attire. These shoes also have cushioned, shock-absorbing insoles, and you can bet the genuine leather uppers will conform to the shape of your feet for the perfect fit.

Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel

Neiman Marcus

These timeless pumps from Marion Parke can be worn with everything from ankle pants and pleated trousers to pencil skirts and dresses. What's more, the slim silhouette won't take up much space in your suitcase. This footwear brand is expensive, but it's known for its remarkably comfortable styles, each featuring contoured insoles with adaptable cushioning and pressure relief for the balls of your feet.

Best Travel-day Shoes

Vionic slip-on sneaker.

If you need comfortable shoes to wear on the plane but still want to look put-together, Vionic's Zinah Sneaker might be your best bet. The laceless, slip-on design boasts a sleek, laid-back aesthetic resembling a cross between a tennis shoe and a flat. Thanks to the brand's podiatrist-designed arch support, you can bet these shoes won't hurt your feet.

Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer

When it comes to men's loafers , you really can't go wrong with Cole Haan. This classic, clean-cut pair features smooth leather uppers and a structured silhouette with traditional stitching. With OrthoLite footbeds, you can count on next-level cushioning, arch support, and antimicrobial odor resistance.

Best Dress Shoes

Allen edmonds park avenue oxford.

Featuring traditional cap toes with six-eyelet laces, these gorgeous leather oxfords are the ideal dress shoes for business trips. While they pair well with a suit, you can also rock them with chinos, slacks, suit separates, and everything in between.

Moral Code Kai Sneaker

For travel days, we recommend the Kai Sneaker from Moral Code. These laid-back yet professional-looking shoes have smooth leather uppers that wipe clean in a pinch, durable rubber outsoles, and padded footbeds that promise to conform to the shape of your foot to keep you comfortable with every step.

The right accessories are crucial for business trips. Still, you want to avoid bringing more than you'll actually use, as overpacking will just weigh you down during your busy schedule. Here's what we recommend.

Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt

Don't forget to pack a belt for your business trip. Even if you're not sure which outfit you'll need it for, you'll be glad to have it when the occasion arises — plus it takes up almost no space in your suitcase. Consider this classic burnished leather one, and order it one size larger than your typical pants size.

Best Wallet

Leatherology slim zip travel wallet.

Leatherology's Slim Zip Travel Wallet is made of buttery-soft, full-grain leather and comes in your choice of several tasteful hues. It has seven card slots, three bill compartments for things like cash and receipts, and a spacious main compartment big enough to fit your phone, boarding pass, or passport. We also appreciate that it zips up to keep everything secure.

Best Travel Tech Kit

Mark & graham essential tech folio.

Mark & Graham

This clever leather pouch makes it easy to stay organized when traveling with lots of tech gadgets. With multiple compartments, sleeves, and pockets, you'll have a designated spot for your phone, tablet, charging cables, earbuds, stylus pen, important cards, and then some.

Best Portable Charger

Nimble champ portable charger.

"I always travel with a portable cellphone battery charger," Dandashy says. With this in mind, we recommend packing the Nimble Champ. This compact, on-the-go charger weighs less than half a pound and boasts super-fast charging that takes you from zero to 80 percent battery life in just 30 minutes. It can even charge two devices at once.

Best Water Bottle

Monos kiyo uvc bottle.

Dandashy says she always brings a reusable water bottle on business trips. We like this one from Monos, which calls on ultraviolet technology to kill over 99.9 percent of bacteria in your drinking water. We admit this is a lot to spend on a water bottle, but it might be worth it for the built-in purification system, plus it's backed by a two-year warranty.

The best luggage for business trips is lightweight, functional, and professional-looking. Whether you opt to carry on or check your baggage, we strongly suggest keeping your valuables with you, whether in a carry-on suitcase or "personal item" bag .

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

July's Carry On Pro was built for business travel. This compact yet spacious suitcase flaunts a crush-proof polycarbonate shell, an extra-long telescoping handle, and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. There's a hidden laundry bag inside, an ejectable USB power bank, and an external magnetic compartment for your laptop that detaches with the press of a button when you need to remove it when going through security. The price is a little steep for the size, but it's backed by a lifetime warranty.

Best Checked Suitcase

Solgaard check-in closet.

For those who want to check their bags, we suggest the Solgaard Check-In Closet. This mid-sized suitcase has a nearly unbreakable polycarbonate shell and a built-in shelving system with five compartments and compression straps that help you pack as much as possible. We like that you can remove and hang up the closet system for easy access during your trip.

Best Packing Cubes

Away the insider packing cubes.

Away is a go-to for high-quality luggage at reasonable price points. Designed to compress your belongings, the brand's Insider Packing Cubes allow you to fit more into your suitcase while simplifying the packing and unpacking process. Made of nylon with mesh panels on top, they're breathable and water-resistant while making it easy to see what's inside.

Best Toiletry Bag

Dagne dover hunter toiletry bag.

Dagne Dover

The Hunter Toiletry Bag is made of water-resistant neoprene with large, smooth-gliding zippers that'll never get stuck. Available in two sizes, this multi-compartment satchel is just the thing for packing and organizing your toothbrush, razor, shampoo, deodorant, skin care products, comb, contact lenses — you name it.

Best Laptop Bag

Calpak haven laptop tote bag.

If you need something to carry your laptop on the plane or to and from meetings, the Haven Tote is an excellent choice. Made of easy-to-clean faux leather, it has a spacious main compartment, a large pocket for your computer or tablet, and three smaller pockets for all the little things you want to keep within reach. "I always pack hand sanitizer, a water bottle, a few packs of gum, and vitamins," Dandashy says. There's also an external trolley sleeve for when you want to slide it onto the handle of your suitcase.

According to Dandashy, the best way to pack a suit is to put it in a garment bag and bring it as your carry-on. This will help you avoid folding it up and having to iron it when you arrive. Of course, this may not always be an option.

"If you must pack it in a suitcase, carefully fold your suit with tissue paper," says Dandashy, explaining that this helps prevent wrinkles and keeps the fabric looking immaculate. "Pop out each shoulder, and fold the suit backward so that the lapels touch. Place tissue paper on either side of the jacket, carefully folding it into thirds." Then fold the pants lengthwise, placing tissue paper in between the folds.

Wrinkle-free clothing materials are usually made at least partially of synthetic fibers, like spandex, nylon, and elastane. This gives a garment more stretch and flexibility, which ultimately prevents wrinkling and creasing. Ponte and other jersey knits also resist wrinkling. If you prefer natural fabrics, consider bamboo-derived textiles or lyocell, which is sourced from wood pulp.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, apparel, footwear, and packing essentials. For this roundup, she searched high and low to find the best items for business trips, narrowing it down to versatile apparel and practical products travelers will be glad to have on hand. While researching business trip packing lists, we spoke with travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers

Marty Levart

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Business travel can be both exciting and stressful. Having the right items with you can make your trip more comfortable and productive. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate packing list for business travelers, ensuring that you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated using AI technology.

When it comes to professional attire, it’s good to consider the level of formality of your trip. Business suits are a professional staple, providing a polished and put-together look for any occasion. For a more business casual situation, dress shirts and blouses paired with slacks or a skirt are a good option. Pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a linen blazer or a black dress , allow you to create multiple outfits with minimal packing.

In terms of outerwear, consider the climate of your destination. Blazers and suit jackets are popular choices, providing a structured and put-together look. Sweaters can be worn over dress shirts or blouses for a relaxed yet professional appearance. For colder destinations, a tailored option like a peacoat or a well-fitting lightweight puffer jacket will do the trick.

For footwear, consider dress shoes such as oxfords, loafers, pumps, flats, or dressy boots. It is important to choose shoes that are appropriate for the workplace while still being comfortable enough for any sightseeing you have planned.

In addition to business attire, pack a few casual items for after-hours activities and for the flight. These can include comfortable pants , jeans , t-shirts , and sweaters .

The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include:

• Business suits
• Professional dress shirts and blouses
• Slacks and dress pants
• Skirts and dresses
• Jackets and sweaters
• Shoes (at least two pairs)
• Socks and underwear
• A tie and belt (if applicable)
• A scarf (if applicable)
• A hat (if applicable)

It is essential to pack toiletries for a business trip, especially if you will be away for more than a few days. Consider packing items such as:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap and body wash
• Razors and shaving cream
• Hairbrush and comb
• Facial cleanser and moisturizer
• Makeup and cosmetics
• Menstrual products
• Skincare products (including facial cleanser and sunscreen )
• Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
• Prescription medications

When it comes to personal hygiene and self-care, it is essential to have a few items on hand. The most basic necessities include a toothbrush , toothpaste , shampoo , conditioner , soap, body wash , deodorant , and any skincare products part of your typical routine. For those who prefer a clean-shaven look, don’t forget your razors and shaving cream.

For hair care, bring along a hairbrush or comb , hair styling tools , and any hair products you use on a daily basis.

Lastly, individuals who require prescription medications should always have them readily available. Pack any necessary medication in your carry-on or personal item to ensure that they reach your destination safely.

Electronics

Staying connected on-the-go is never more important than when traveling for business. Make sure to bring the following items:

• Cell phone and charger
• Any necessary external hard drives or flash drives
• Power cords and adaptors
• Portable Wi-Fi device
• Portable charger

A laptop is a must-have for any business traveler as it allows you to work on important tasks and stay connected with your colleagues and clients. Additionally, a cell phone is essential for communication and a tablet can be useful for reading documents or presentations on the go.

Headphones can be useful for listening to music on the plane or taking calls in noisy environments. A portable Wi-Fi device can provide you with reliable internet access while on the move. Lastly, a portable charger can be a lifesaver when you are running low on battery power without an outlet in sight.

Be sure to bring important travel documents on your business trip, such as your passport, driver’s license, copies of your itinerary, and tickets. In addition to these typical travel necessities, make sure to print out any contracts, reports, or presentations you may need for your trip. Keep all of these documents in a folder or bag that you can easily access.

Miscellaneous Business Essentials

When traveling for work, make sure to pack all the business travel essentials needed to complete your job for the duration of the trip. This can include additional accessories like a briefcase or laptop bag , business cards, notebooks , and pens . If you’re giving a presentation, make sure to bring all the necessary equipment and materials, such as presentation notes, cables, and extra batteries .

Lastly, make sure to bring any industry or job-specific items that your work may require, such as name tags, ID cards, building keys, specialized gear or equipment, or uniforms.

Miscellaneous Travel Items

There are a few items you’ll want to have in your suitcase no matter the type of trip. These include:

• Travel-sized laundry detergent
• Travel pillow and blanket
• Travel-sized umbrella
• Snacks and water bottle
• Travel-sized first aid kit
• Travel adapter for charging devices
• Travel-sized sewing kit
• Travel-sized stain remover

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August 26, 2018 By Michelle Maraj 35 Comments

The Ultimate Packing List for Work Trips

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

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

Building a Packing List for a Work Trip

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

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

Packing Essentials for a Business Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Refreshed Each Week While Traveling for Work

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Laptop Bag Necessities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Expectations During a Business Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Packing Your Suitcase for a Business Trip

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

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

Learn more about traveling for work

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

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How to Pack for a Business Trip

Excited for your upcoming business trip but not looking forward to packing?  It can be hard to know where to start and what to pack without a guide. Here at Trafalgar, we’ve put together a list of recommended clothing basics, essential travel items, and also provided some packing tips from the experts to make your trip a breeze. The average length of a domestic business trip in the United States is three days, so keep reading to make sure you don’t leave anything important at home!

Best Luggage for Business Travel

Investing in a travel bag for work is essential; duffle bags can look unprofessional and large suitcases are too bulky for a short trip. When packing for a work trip, carry-on-sized luggage should be all you need plus a personal item such as a leather backpack or briefcase. This will give you plenty of space to keep all your items organized.

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

Always remember to pack your laptop in your personal bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve for protection. If you’re using a bag that doesn’t have a designated laptop compartment, invest in a laptop sleeve. If you need to keep it in your carry on, remember to take it out before stowing your bag in the overhead compartment so you can get some work done during your flight. 

  We highly recommend never putting your laptop in a checked bag! Doing so puts it at risk of being broken, lost, or stolen during the journey.

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

When packing for just a few days of travel, it’s best to bring versatile clothing that can be worn for business and casual outings. Although some items will differ depending on your style and itinerary, below is a list of basics. (Make sure if you’re traveling for a longer period of time that you bring a few more shirts and pants!)

• 2 dress tops
• 1 pair of dress pants
• 1 matching suit jacket
• Pocket square and tie if needed
• 1 casual shirt
• 1 pair of jeans or khakis
• 1-2 sets of pjs/loungewear
• 1 pair of socks / underwear for every day
• Undershirts (if desired)
• Simple dress belt (try a reversible belt to go with any outfit)
• 2 pairs of shoes- 1 dress, 1 causal/athletic  
• Workout clothes (optional)

Other Packing Essentials for a Work Trip

Basic toiletries are a must-have such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, soap, and a razor. If you’re flying make sure to buy travel-size items. Keep your items organized by storing them in a zippered travel kit.

You will also want to bring a few essential electronics. Keep your phone and laptop in a convenient place to use when you need, and keep their chargers nearby too. Bringing headphones for the plane will also make your flight much more enjoyable.

Lastly, don’t forget any medications!

More Packing Tips

It’s important to make sure you have enough room to bring all your essentials, but you should also check to make sure your bag won’t go over any airline weight restrictions. Check for specifications from your airline before you start packing.

Since you’re only bringing a carry-on, it’s important to pack your bag efficiently. Rolling your clothes not only saves space, but also helps reduce wrinkles. Just make sure when you arrive to immediately hang your clothes in the closet. Your hotel should have an iron for any touchups if necessary.

If you need to bring any bulky items, such as a winter jacket or boots, plan to wear them to the airport so they don’t take up valuable space in your luggage.

We recommend writing a packing checklist so you don’t forget anything. Use our list above and start brainstorming specifics a couple days before so you’re not panicked the night before you leave while trying to remember everything. Calm your travel anxieties by feeling confident that you packed everything you need!

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Business Trip Packing List

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Use my ultimate business trip packing list to help you pack and plan with confidence for an upcoming business trip and hopefully pick up a few tips along the way.

For several years, I moved from country to country, speaking at conferences and organizing events, with everything from portable projectors to hard drives with invaluable data stored in my luggage. Trust me, I know how stressful it can be to travel for work!

This list not only draws on my personal experience but also these insightful business travel tips, which feature expert advice from 18 globetrotting entrepreneurs and business travelers.

I’ve tried to leave no stone unturned with this mammoth packing list. Not all of it will be applicable to you, but it should help you consider everything you would need to pack and plan for.

It’s also free to download. You can find the download link at the end of this article. Download the PDF, print it off, and use it to help you pack with confidence.

Oh, and whatever you’re traveling for, be it a conference, keynote speaker event, or networking, the very best of luck!

Travel Documents

For both domestic and international travel, the same protocols, such as entering another country with your passport, still apply. Consider packing the following documents:

1. Passport

2. Required Documents

Depending on if you’re visiting another country, be sure to do your research for visa and entry requirements. Keep these documents in a separate folder.

3. Travel Insurance

If you’re leaving the country, no matter how short your trip, make sure you’re covered.

4. Driver’s License

5. Rental Car Confirmation

If you have rented a car, print off all the documents and have them on hand.

6. Business Trip Itinerary

From conference agendas to your personal travel schedule, make sure you have everything written down in a diary or folder. You could even use our travel binder to help you.

7. Debit and Credit Cards

If you do a lot of business travel, get yourself a credit card with a points or reward scheme. Take a look at our business travel tips article for advice.

8. Emergency Contacts

9. Document Copies

Keep photocopies of all key documents and have them in a folder, just in case you can’t access your digital copies or lose the originals.

Health and Personal Care

Even if you’re feeling energized and refreshed, your personal health should not be taken for granted. Particularly if you are traveling by plane, consider packing the following items.

10. Medication

No matter how short your business trip, always be prepared. If you take any prescription medication, naturally, make sure it is packed. You could also get yourself a small medication bag and consider packing the following (if applicable):

• Pain Relief
• Allergy Medication
• First-Aid Kit
• Insect Repellent

If you are traveling abroad, double-check the rules for bringing medication into the country. There may be restrictions on the types of medication or quantity you can bring in.

11. Hand Sanitizer

It’s always good to have hand sanitizer with you on the plane. You can use it before eating food or after going to the toilet.

12. Antibacterial Wipes

Antibacterial wipes are useful not just for the plane but also for airports, toilets, and even hotel rooms.

Tech and Electronics

There’s a lot to consider here, especially if you’re speaking or running an event or workshop. My attitude when traveling for work was it was already better to have my own equipment rather than rely on someone else.

I would even travel with my own HDMI cable and Macbook convertor because I lost count of the number of times I’d show up at a space and they wouldn’t have the right tech. Pack accordingly, and consider the following items.

13. Main Laptop and Charger

14. Backup Laptop and Charger

You may struggle for space, but even an ultraportable laptop, tablet, or older laptop as a failsafe as a backup, just in case, will give you peace of mind in case your main laptop has an issue.

15. Business Phone and Charger

16. Personal Phone and Charger

17. Tablet and Charger

I found having a tablet always helped at conferences and speaking events. It can be used as an additional screen, a place to refer to your notes, or you can use it with projectors if your main laptop doesn’t work.

18. Portable Battery

Both a lifesaver on long flights and at events where you may not have proximity or access to a power socket. Remember to charge it fully the night before you fly or go to your event. It works as a portable battery for both your laptop and your phone.

19. Multi-Charger

Traveling with a multi-charger was a real game-changer for me. It was not uncommon for me to have to charge three, four, or even five devices all at once when traveling for work. Having one unit to change everything from just makes life easier, especially in hotel rooms or at airport lounges.

20. Travel Adapter

An essential if you’re traveling abroad, I would also recommend getting one that comes with a universal power strip.

21. Travel Router

Public wifi can often be hit or miss, especially in hotels. If you’re willing to put the time in to set it up, a personal travel router can help strengthen your connection and give you your own access point.

22. Noise-Canceling Headphones

Whether it be for helping you sleep on a flight or getting focussed work down, both noise-canceling headphones and earbuds are a sound investment. I’ve had my Boise noise-canceling earbuds for years, and they still haven’t let me down.

23. Bluetooth Speaker

You’d be amazed at how many rooms and events have an issue with sound when it comes to talks and workshop events. If you can provide your own source of sound that is already synced up to your device, you give yourself another failsafe.

These items are not only suitable for plane travel but also for sleeping in hotel rooms and other accommodations. You never know how loud or uncomfortable a certain place or room may be.

24. Travel Pillow

25. Sleeping Mask

26. Earplugs

27. Collapsible Water Bottle

You can generally fill up your water bottle from water fountains for free at airports and bus stations.

28. Travel Blanket

29. Anti-Nausea Bands

30. Snack Pack

Snacks like nuts, protein bars, and chopped fruit are easy to travel with and can give you something to eat if there are no options around you.

Entertainment

For that time on the plane or evenings in the hotel room, once you’re happy everything has been prepared, you’ll need ways to relax and unwind. Make sure you have ways to entertain yourself, and consider the following.

31. Fire TV Stick

Most new hotel TVs now have HDMI and USB port access, meaning you can bring the likes of a Fire TV stick with you, plug it in, connect to the internet, and watch shows.

32. Pre-downloaded Offline Shows and Movies

33. Pre-Downloaded Offline Playlist

34. Kindle Paperwhite

35. Travel Journal

Glasses and Eyewear

If you wear glasses or contacts, make sure you pack the following items in your luggage.

36. Glasses with Case

37. Backup Pair of Glasses

38. Contact Lenses

39. Eyeglass Repair Kit

How long your business trip is and the type of travel you’ll be doing will generally determine how much luggage you will need. If you can get away with a carry-on and backpack or briefcase, try to travel lighter.

Sometimes, however, for international or longer trips, you will need a combination of a suitcase, carry-on, and other luggage to bring everything with you. Here are some considerations.

40. Lightweight Suitcase

How long you are going for will really depend on whether you need to bring checked luggage with you. When I traveled for business, I typically had a lot of expensive tech with me, so I had no choice but to bring a suitcase with me along with my backpack and carry-on.

If you have a lot to pack, or your business travel is more than a weekend or few days, definitely consider packing a lightweight suitcase that is easy to maneuver.

41. Carry On

The carry-on is so often the go-to for business travel. Many frequent business travelers vouch for packing lighter and trying to keep everything in their carry-on to save space and time.

42. Briefcase with Slide

A briefcase with a slide can be easily carried over your carry-on handle, keeping your other hand free.

43. Anti-Theft Backpack

Especially if you’re traveling with a laptop and expensive tech, consider an anti-theft backpack to keep your valuables safe.

44. Garment Bag

If traveling with a suit or expensive dress, consider a garment bag to keep it protected and clean.

45. Packing Cubes

I never travel without packing cubes. While their ability to save space may be a myth, they are so good for organizing your luggage.

Conference/Meeting Clothing

Depending on the type of conference or event you’re attending, you’ll want to pack smart and appropriate clothing, especially if you’re going to have an audience.

Also, consider the number of days the event or conference is and the number of certain items you’ll need to pack. Some of these items of clothing and accessories can help give you ideas.

46. Suit Jacket

47. Waistcoat

52. Pencil Dress

53. Pencil Skirt

54. Jumpsuit

57. Coat or Jacket

58. Underwear

59. Sewing Repair Kit

In case something rips or tears, it’s always good to have a repair kit handy so that you can fix clothing from your accommodation or hotel room.

Networking/Dinner Clothing

Depending on the nature of the event, dinner or social gatherings will have a different vibe and dress code.

You may be able to wear what you have on during the day. However, consider packing some of the following, which may be more suitable for dinner, drinks, and informal gatherings. You may also want to change clothes between the business event and the evening event.

60. Smart Casual Shirt

61. Smart Casual Top

63. Slacks (or Jeans)

Downtime Clothing

Outside of business hours, you’ll want to feel relaxed and comfortable at the hotel or in the city. Yes, put a lot of thought into your business or meeting attire, but also make sure to pack clothing for the evenings and in your downtime.

65. Casual Dresses

67. Pants or Jogging Bottoms

68. Workout Clothes

69. Pajamas

70. Spare Underwear

71. Rain Jacket

72. Swimsuit/wear

If there’s a pool at the hotel, you may want to go for a swim for some much-needed downtime.

To go with both your business and casual attire, consider what footwear you would need to pack. You may be able to get away with one smart pair of shoes, or you may have to pack multiple pairs to work with different outfits.

73. Brogues

74. Loafers

78. Trainers or Sneakers

If you’re only traveling with a carry-on, you will need to limit the toiletries you travel with or make sure the toiletries you do travel with can come on the plane with you. Make sure liquids are packed into 3.4-ounce (100ml) bottles, and you will need to forgo accessories such as razors.

If you have a checked bag, you can travel with a large toiletries bag. It’s important to look and feel your best for business meetings and events, so travel with all your essential and desired toiletries. That way, you can focus all your time on the job at hand.

79. Toiletries Bag/Case which could contain:

• Solid Shampoo
• Solid Conditioner
• Shower Gel and/or Soap
• Moisturizer
• Perfume/Cologne
• Shaving Cream
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Nail Clippers and File
• Stain Remover Stick

You should always look and feel your best self, no matter what your business trip entails. For both your hair and skin, consider packing the following in a separate pouch or weekender bag that you can put in your suitcase or carry on.

81. Makeup Remover

82. Hair Dryer

83. Hair Straightener

84. Curling Iron

85. Hairbrush

86. Hairstyling Products

If you’re planning to travel with jewelry, make sure you have a stylish and sturdy case to carry it in.

87. Jewelry Case to carry:

Reward and Loyalty Schemes

If you frequently travel for business, you could be missing out on upgrades, hotel stays, and free flights if you’re not a member of reward and loyalty programs. Consider the following:

88. Rewards Credit Card

Whether it’s through your company or your own personal business, booking with a credit card with rewards and points will only make your business trips more comfortable and enjoyable.

In time, you can use your points and rewards to upgrade on flights, book hotel stays, and gain access to the likes of co-working memberships.

89. TSA Pre-Check, Clear, and Global Entry

Several of the business travelers I spoke to for our business travel tips article recommended the TSA pre-check, clear, and global entry membership for fast and efficient boarding and moving through airports.

90. Air Miles Membership

If you consistently fly with the same airplane or family of airlines, definitely sign up for a frequent flyer membership.

91. Lounge Pass

Airport lounges offer food, comfort, and lots of perks. If you fly for business frequently, have a look at these ways to get airport lounge access to see what the best option would be for you.

92. Co-Working Membership

Hotel wifi can be slow and hotels uncomfortable. If you need to get work done on your business trip, consider a co-working pass or membership that gives you access to multiple locations, such as WeWork.

93. Pre-Booked Access to Meeting Room

In addition to your co-working membership, be sure you have a quiet place booked that only you have access to for calls and meetings.

Naturally, only you are going to know what you need for your upcoming business trip. However, here are some classic items and essentials to consider taking with you.

Have everything written down or documented beforehand, in a diary, on a separate sheet in a folder, or digitally recorded in your calendar.

95. Business Cards

It may be a little old school, but business cards are still a great way to pass on your information to start a conversation outside of the event.

96. Contact Details (Physical or Digital)

Nowadays, people will want to take your phone, email, or other details. Have something physical or digital ready to give to people when they ask.

97. USB Stick or Portable Hard Drive

Keep your files and important documents for the event both on your machine and on a separate stick or hard drive for easy access.

98. Powerpoint/Slide Deck/Presentation

Keep multiple copies of this on both your laptop and external devices. Also, double-check your connectivity and whether you have the right setup and cables.

99. Company Branded Stationary/Merch

If you are representing your company or a client, consider bringing stationary and merch with you to give to people.

100. Pen and Notepad

Digital and Security

Lastly, security, both physical and digital, should be a big consideration when traveling for business. Go that extra mile to protect yourself and give yourself a little more peace of mind.

101. VPN Account

Security is paramount when traveling for work, and using public wifis without protection can be very risky. To this day, I still use Express VPN to give me protection when working from coffee shops, hotels, and co-working spaces abroad.

102. Password Manager

103. Data Bundle from Phone Provider

Check with your provider how much data you have with your monthly contract. You may need to use your phone as a hotspot if the wifi is weak or not accessible.

104. SIM with Pre-Loaded Data

If you’re traveling abroad and your provider isn’t giving you a good deal, consider buying a SIM with data in the place you are traveling to.

105. USB Data Blocker

When using public USB ports for charging, such as in airports, use a data blocker like this one for USB Type A or this one for USB Type C to stop potential downloads of your data.

106. Travel Safe

For keys, flash drives, credit cards, and other smaller valuables, you could travel with a portable safe.

107. Contents and Business Insurance

Double-check what your travel or business insurance covers you for when working away from home, and if required, change your policy accordingly.

Download PDF Checklist

Naturally, not everything in this list will be applicable to you. What I wanted to do, however, was try to bring absolutely all considerations to the table so that you can think of everything before you pack.

Feel free to download my free packing list using the link below. From there, you can print off the PDF, cross out the items you don’t need, and start planning your trip with confidence.

I really hope you find this list helpful. It draws on the insight from just under 20 different business travelers, so there’s a wealth of knowledge and experience that has gone into curating this list.

You Might Also Like to Read

• Weekend Packing List for Quick Getaways

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Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

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The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List (Separate List If Have Kids)

Posted on Published: September 1, 2022  - Last updated: September 8, 2022

Categories Travel

Packing for a business trip can be daunting, especially if you’re not used to traveling for work. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This packing list will ensure that you have everything you need to make your trip a success.

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Whether you’re going on a weekend trip or an extensive international journey, be sure to pack the following items:

• Passport and visa (if necessary)
• Travel insurance documents
• Tickets and boarding passes
• Money (cash and/or traveler’s checks)
• Credit cards and ATM card
• Laptop and charger
• Smartphone and charger
• Tablet and charger (if you plan on using one)
• Work documents
• Business cards
• Notepad and pen
• Folders or a portfolio to keep your documents organized
• An empty suitcase or duffel bag (for bringing home any souvenirs!)

Of course, you’ll also want to pack clothing and personal items appropriate for your destination. In this article, we’ll go over all the essentials you need for a long or short trip.

Choosing the Right Luggage

Before you can begin packing, you need to make sure you choose the right type of luggage for the trip. If you’re only going for a few days, a small carry-on bag should suffice. But if you’re traveling for a week or longer, you’ll need to pack more items and will likely need a larger suitcase.

When selecting luggage, keep the following in mind:

• The size and weight restrictions of the airline you’re flying
• Whether you need a bag with wheels
• If you want a hard-sided or soft-sided bag
• How many people are traveling with you (you may be able to share a larger suitcase if you’re traveling with someone else)

1. Weekend Trip

For a weekend business trip, the first thing you need to do is ask yourself what the dress code will be. Is it a casual environment or business casual? If you’re not sure, err on the side of caution and pack clothing that is appropriate for a meeting or presentation.

Assuming that you’ll need to pack for two days, we recommend bringing the following items:

• Charger for each device
• Headphones (optional)

Travel Documents

• Visa (if necessary)
• Boarding pass
• Cash (in the local currency)
• Credit cards
• 2 collared shirts or blouses
• 1 pair of trousers or a skirt
• 1 pair of comfortable shoes
• 1 sweater or jacket
• Socks and underwear

Personal Items

• Medications
• Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
• Glasses (if applicable)
• Makeup (optional)
• Jewelry (optional)

Office Supplies

You’ll also want to bring some work supplies with you so that you can be prepared for any meetings.

• Pens/pencils

Other Items

• Laundry bag (if you plan on doing any laundry while on your trip)
• An empty suitcase or duffel bag (for souvenirs!)
• An umbrella or raincoat (depending on the forecast)

This list is just meant to get you started. Be sure to add any other items that you think you’ll need, based on your own needs and preferences.

Weekend Trip With Children

If you are bringing your children with you for this business trip, you’ll obviously need to pack for them as well. Here are a few additional items to pack, in addition to the items on the above list:

Babies/Toddlers

• Children’s clothing
• Diapers and wipes (if necessary)
• Formula or baby food (if necessary)
• Children’s toys and books
• Child car seat (if renting a car)

Children Ages 5 and up

• Schoolwork (if applicable)
• Electronics and chargers (if applicable)
• Game console (if applicable)

If you’re bringing your pet with you on the trip, be sure to pack:

• Their food and water bowls
• Enough food and water for the entire trip
• A leash or harness
• Any medications they are taking
• Their favorite toys

This is just a basic list of items that you’ll need to pack for your business trip. Be sure to add any other items that you or your family members may need

2. Week Long Business Trip

For a longer business trip, you’ll need to pack enough clothing and personal items for the entire duration of your stay. Most people prefer to travel with a carry-on bag and a checked bag, but it’s ultimately up to you. If you’re traveling with a lot of technology, you may want to consider bringing a backpack as your carry-on, so that you have more room for everything.

Here’s a list of items to pack for a week-long business trip:

To pack for a week-long business trip, you’ll need to bring enough clothing to last you the entire week, plus a few extra items just in case.

Let’s start with the basics:

• Underwear and socks for each day
• Pants or skirts for each day
• Tops for each day
• A jacket or blazer
• A pair of comfortable shoes

Toiletries and other essentials:

You cannot assume that your hotel will provide you with toiletries. While most do, not all do, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

• Toiletries bag
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap or body wash
• Makeup and makeup remover
• Hair brush or comb
• Contact lenses and solution, if you wear them
• Extra glasses, if you need them
• Feminine hygiene products

These days, it’s hard to imagine traveling without some form of technology.

• Chargers for all of your devices
• External hard drive

There are a few other items you might want to consider packing as well.

• Passport and travel documents
• First aid kit
• Water bottle
• Books or magazines
• Empty bag for souvenirs
• Any medications you take regularly
• An umbrella
• A travel pillow
• A scarf or shawl (for chilly offices)
• A blanket (for long flights)
• Noise-cancelling headphones (for long flights)
• A book or movie (for long flights)
• Snacks (for long flights)
• An adapter, if you’re traveling to a country with a different type of electrical outlet
• Portable charger or battery pack

If your child is coming with you on your week-long business trip, you’ll need additional items for them.

Babies and toddlers:

• a diaper bag packed with diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and any other necessary items
• formula or breast milk, if you are not able to nurse
• baby food and snacks
• a comfort item such as a blanket or toy

Children aged 5 and up:

• a small backpack packed with snacks, a water bottle, any necessary medications, and a change of clothes
• entertainment such as books, coloring books, or handheld electronic games
• a comfort item such as a blanket or stuffed animal

If you’re bringing your furry friend along on your business trip, you’ll need to pack a few extra things for them as well.

• food and water bowls
• enough food and water for the entire trip
• a collar or harness with ID tags
• toys and treats
• a bed or blanket
• any necessary medications

You’ll also need to be sure that your hotel allows pets before you book your stay.

3. Month-Long (or longer) Business Trip

If you’re going on a business trip that will last a month or longer, you’ll need to pack accordingly. This means bringing enough clothes to last the entire trip, as well as any toiletries and other items you may need. Here is a packing list for a month-long business trip:

• 10-14 shirts/blouses
• 7-10 pants/skirts
• 2-3 dresses
• 10-14 socks/hosiery
• 1-2 outerwear (jacket, coat)

You’ll want to make sure you work out where you can do laundry – whether at a laundromat or with your hotel. To figure out how much laundry you’ll need to do, consider wearing clothes more than once and packing items that can be easily washed (like jeans or skirts).

Again, you’ll want to make sure that you have enough of everything to last the entire trip. This includes:

• toothbrush/toothpaste
• shampoo/conditioner

Don’t forget any medications you may need, as well. If you have allergies, be sure to pack your EpiPen!

Of course, you’ll need to make sure you have all of your travel documents in order before you go. This includes:

• visa (if required)
• hotel reservations
• rental car information

Be sure to pack these items in a safe and easily accessible place. A travel wallet is a great option to keep everything organized.

If you’re traveling for business, chances are you’ll need to bring some technology with you. This may include:

• laptop/tablet
• memory cards/sticks
• external hard drive (if needed)

Pack these items carefully to avoid damage. You may also want to consider investing in travel insurance for your electronics.

If you’re presenting at a conference or meeting, you’ll also need any materials related to that (e.g., slides, handouts).

If you’re traveling for business, you’ll likely need to bring some office supplies with you. This may include:

• pens/pencils

Depending on your trip, you may need to pack other items. For example:

• a travel pillow and blanket if you’re flying
• books or magazines for entertainment
• snacks and drinks for the plane or car
• an umbrella or raincoat
• a swimsuit if you’re staying in a hotel with a pool
• formal clothing if you’re attending a business dinner or event

If you’re traveling with family, you may need to pack items for them as well (e.g., diapers, formula, toys).

Babies and toddlers

If you are traveling with a child aged 5 or younger, you’ll need to bring the following items:

• child car seat
• formula/food
• toys/entertainment
• portable game console
• blanket/sleeping bag

You’ll also want to make sure you have a diaper bag packed and ready to go at all times. This should include diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for the child, and snacks.

Children Aged 5 and Up

If you’re traveling with a child aged 5 and up, you’ll need to bring the following items:

You’ll also want to make sure you have a bag packed with snacks and drinks, as well as any medications the child may need.

If you’re travelling with a pet, you’ll need to bring the following items:

• crate/carrier
• harness/leash

You’ll also want to make sure you have a travel plan for your pet, including where they will stay while you’re away and how you will get them there.

The most important thing to remember when packing for a business trip is to pack what you need. This means bringing enough clothes and toiletries to last the entire trip, as well as any technology or other items you may need. By doing this, you can avoid having to buy anything while you’re away, which can save you time and money.

This is just a basic packing list for a month-long business trip. You may need to add or remove items depending on the specifics of your trip (e.g., if you’re flying or driving, if you’re staying in a hotel or an apartment, etc.).

Making the Most Out of Your Luggage Space

When packing for a business trip, it’s important to make the most of your luggage space. This means packing efficiently and using all available space. Here are some tips for doing this:

• Use packing cubes or bags to organize your clothes. This will help you fit more into your suitcase and keep things from getting wrinkled.
• Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This will also help you fit more into your suitcase and prevent wrinkles.
• Put heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase and lighter items on top.
• Utilize all pockets and compartments in your suitcase, including the pockets in the lid.
• If you’re traveling with a laptop, use it to store items like chargers and cords.
• If you’re traveling with a carry-on bag, pack it as full as possible to avoid having to check it at the airport.

Packing for a business trip doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these tips, you can make sure you have everything you need without overpacking.

Making a Hotel Room Home

When traveling for a long period of time, it’s important to make your hotel room feel like home. This can help you avoid homesickness and make the trip more enjoyable. To do this, you can:

• Bring pictures of family and friends
• Bring a favorite pillow or blanket
• Buy or bring small items to decorate the room
• Pack a small care package with your favorite snacks and drinks

By making your hotel room feel like home, you can help make the trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

If you have a young child or a pet travelling with you, you’ll also need to consider their needs when packing for the trip. This may include bringing extra food, a travel bed or crate, and toys. By thinking about the needs of everyone in your party, you can make sure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Choosing a Place to Stay

Sometimes your employer will complete all of your travel arrangements for you. But depending on the purpose of the trip, you may have some say in where you stay. If this is the case, here are some things to consider when choosing a place to stay:

• Distance from the conference center or meeting location
• Proximity to restaurants and other amenities
• Room amenities (e.g., Wi-Fi, cable TV, mini-fridge)
• Hotel amenities (e.g., pool, gym, business center)

You’ll also want to make sure you’re comfortable with the location of your hotel. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the city, you may want to choose a hotel that’s centrally located. But if you’re going to be spending most of your time at the conference center or meeting location, you may want to choose a hotel that’s closer to that.

Additional Helpful Tips

In addition to the packing lists, here are a few other helpful tips to make your business trip go smoothly:

• Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents well in advance of your trip. This includes your passport, visa (if necessary), and travel insurance documents.
• Keep copies of important documents, such as your passport and travel insurance information, in a safe place in case you lose the originals.
• Pack light! This will make it easier to move around and avoid excess baggage fees.
• Invest in a good quality suitcase or duffel bag. This will make packing and unpacking a breeze.
• Make sure your laptop and other electronics are fully charged before you leave. It’s also a good idea to bring along extra batteries or a portable charger, just in case.
• If you’re traveling by air, wear comfortable clothing and shoes. This will make going through security a lot easier.
• If you’re renting a car, be sure to bring along your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and credit card.
• Be sure to pack any medications you may need in their original containers. It’s also a good idea to bring along a copy of your prescriptions, just in case.
• If you’re traveling to a foreign country, be sure to research the local customs and laws. This will help you avoid any potential problems.
• Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Business trips can be a great opportunity to explore new places and meet new people.

The Bottom Line

Overall, there’s a lot to consider when packing for a business trip. You need to think about the purpose of the trip, how long you’ll be gone, and what you’ll need to be comfortable. By following the packing lists and tips above, you can make sure you have everything you need for a successful trip.

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The Only Business Trip Packing List You Need

No checked luggage required.

Business travel can be fun: making new professional contacts, crushing your meetings, and not feeling bad about finally cracking open the novel that's been on your reading list forever (because what else are you supposed to do while you wait for your plane to board?).

But business travel is fun only if it goes smoothly. If you're fumbling the day of your trip to throw together your carry-on, or if you arrive at your destination only to find yourself frantically shopping for meeting-appropriate shirts because you somehow forgot to bring one, fun won't be on your agenda.

To avoid those outcomes, consult this business trip packing list before you travel.

Your All-Inclusive Business Trip Packing List

• Carry-on of your choice. Your goal here is not to have to waste time or energy waiting in baggage claim, playing luggage Jenga in the truck of your taxi or rental car, or dragging around unnecessary weight. If your trip is less than a week long, you should have no problem fitting all your goods into a carry-on. I love a backpack for its flexibility, but you can also use a small roller bag.
• Personal item. Whether you use a purse, backpack, laptop bag, or briefcase, pick something professional-looking that you can use to keep important items close to you during travel and to transfer meeting materials as needed. You could bring a bag as well as a briefcase, but do you really need both?
• Travel outfit. If you'll have time to change at your destination, go for comfy athletic clothes and shoes you can work out in. That'll keep you feeling good on the plane, and if you have energy for a run or gym session during your trip, you'll be ready. If you're the kind of person is comfortably sitting for hours in jeans, you can travel in those, too. They're also ideal if you'll have time for a more casual night out with coworkers or clients.
• One to two pairs of bottoms. If you're going for a day or two, pick one; if longer, feel free to pack two. Depending on the formality of your meetings and your preferences, you can choose whatever you prefer between pants, skirts, and dresses. If you are bringing two options, make sure they're the same color so that you don't have to bring additional tops, shoes, or belts to match them.
• One jacket or blazer, if necessary for the level of formality of your trip.
• One top per day. Choose blouses or tops with darker prints, which don't show stains as easily. Also, make sure to choose fabrics that don't easily wrinkle. While your hotel room or Airbnb probably has an iron, who wants to have to use it?
• Underwear (including bras) and socks or hose. This is the one category I give you permission to go all out in. Bring as many pairs as you want, with one pair per day at a bare minimum; they're small and there's nothing worse than having to wear a pair of underwear you've washed in the sink and dried with a hair dryer.
• Shoes. Here, I give you no such permission. Aside from your travel shoes, which should be either athletic shoes or casual going-out shoes (and in either case should be inordinately comfortable), choose one pair that will work with all of the business clothes you have.
• Pajamas. Bring whatever you like to sleep in. Getting a good night's rest away from home is hard enough as it is; give yourself your best chance by bringing whatever you usually wear.

Toiletries:

• Personal hygiene products. Count on using hotel shampoo, conditioner, and body wash options to save luggage space, unless you've got a specific routine and/or want to cut down on your single-use plastics use (for hotels that still have them— many are switching to bulk dispensaries, which are more environmentally-friendly). In that case, bring reusable, 3-oz.-or-less containers of whatever you use at home. Other toiletries to bring along: toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant.
• Skin and hair care products. Do you use lotion, sunscreen, facial cleansers, or hairspray? Don't leave them behind.
• Vision products. Contacts, contact solution, glasses, eye drops—whatever you may need, bring along.
• Other toiletries. You might want to bring makeup, a razor, or shaving cream.
• Travel documents. You probably have most of these on your phone; if you're going paperless, make sure any boarding passes, reservations, and maps are downloaded and available offline, in case you find yourself without cell coverage. If you're traveling domestically, make sure you've got your ID. If internationally, put your passport in a safe place (and a copy of it in your carry-on), along with any other necessary paper documents.
• Envelope. If you need to submit hard-copy receipts for your expense report, keep them all in one place. If you don't, take a photo of each and upload it to a designated folder (or when the option is available, choose to have your receipts emailed to you). You'll thank yourself for staying on top of this later.
• Meeting materials. Along with soft copies of your presentations, bring a few hard copies, just in case. Bring a few business cards, too, to give to meeting or conference attendees you haven't met before.
• Laptop or tablet. Try to bring just one, with its requisite chargers and accessories (mouse, case).
• Headphones. Preferably noise-cancelling for use on travel days.
• Power bank. A small one that has enough juice to charge up your tech in case you find yourself without easy access to an outlet.
• Phone (I doubt you'd forget it, but I'm aiming to be thorough here, okay) and charger.

Miscellaneous:

• Reusable water bottle
• Travel pillow
• Appropriate outer-wear
• Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Have you seen Naomi Campbell's video about how she disinfects everything around her plane seat before she sits down in it? You may not need to go quite so far, but sanitizing your hands before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth during travel is a good idea; airport germs are not your friend.
• Bathing suit, but only if you promise me you're actually going to do laps in the hotel pool. Otherwise it'll just take up space and make you sad that you weren't able to use it.

If you have other things that make your life easier or make you feel more comfortable—melatonin, an eye mask, aromatherapy drops—or items from your office that make you more productive and you can easily bring with you, feel free to throw those in, too. You should still have a bit of room!

I leave you with my business traveler's blessing: may this business travel packing list prep you well for your journeys ahead, may your flights be on time and your turbulence nonexistent, and may you sign all the deals, land all the clients, and make all the impact possible.

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

What do I need to bring on my business trip ? 

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

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

Here’s how this list is broken down:

30+ Things to Pack on Your Next Business Trip:

How to pack for a business trip, work essentials.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Device Chargers and Portable Chargers

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

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

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

Office Supplies 

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

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

Noise Canceling Headphones

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

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

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

Travel Documents

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

Passport and Photo ID

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

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

Boarding Passes

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

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

Hotel and Rental Car Reservations

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

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

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

Clothing & Footwear

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

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

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

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

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

Jackets & Blazers

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

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

Shirts & Blouses

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

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

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

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

Recommendation: Lululemon’s On the Fly collection

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

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

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

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

Underwear & Socks 

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

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

Plus, don’t forget your socks!

Portable Steamer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health & Wellness

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

Gym Clothes

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

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

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

Vitamins and Supplements 

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

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

Travel First Aid Kit 

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

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

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

Travel Sleep Essentials 

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

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

Essential Oils 

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

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

Top pick : Altitude Oil

Food & Drink

• Healthy snacks
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel lunch box

Healthy Snacks

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

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

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

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

Reusable Travel Water Bottle

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

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

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

Travel Lunchbox

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

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

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

• Rewards cards 
• Folder for expense receipts 

Rewards Card

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

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

Folder for Expense Receipts

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

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

Entertainment

• Book or Kindle

Books and Magazines

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

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

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

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

Pack Your Bags and Go

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

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

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

Kristine Auble

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Creating a business trip packing list

Even in our post-digital world, there are some physical items you can’t do without – especially on a business trip. Forget your passport and you won’t be getting on your flight. Forget your phone or laptop and you’ll struggle to communicate with your colleagues and clients. Forget important business documents and you could be risking anything from your professional reputation to a client relationship. These are all easy mistakes to make, but you can see how much they would cost your business to put right – and cause you stress in the process.

This handy guide explains how to pack for a business trip – giving you more time to focus on acing your meeting or that big conference you’re presenting at. Here are 10 essential items to include on your packing list for a business trip.

1. Travel documents

The most important item on your business trip packing list is your passport, without which you won’t be able to set foot on an airplane. It’s a good idea to keep all your travel documents – including any airline reservations, hotel confirmations and rental car details – in one safe place. That way, you can access them quickly as soon as you need them, avoiding that moment of panic when you can’t find your boarding pass.

2. Laptop or tablet

Taking a laptop or tablet with you on your trip is a great way to stay productive. Whether you’re reviewing a presentation or typing up post-meeting notes, using a laptop or tablet to work while you’re on the move will really make your travel time count. Whatever electronic devices you find most useful – don’t forget to pack the relevant chargers. Adapters are a must if you’re travelling abroad, so try and pick up one before your trip – it’ll save you time and money compared to buying one at the airport.

Phones are an essential in modern business life. Without one you’ll really struggle to communicate with your colleagues or your client, and they can also help you stay organized. Download a corporate travel app such as myCWT   and you’ll be able to sync your phone with your work calendar to give you the reminders you need to stick to your work schedule and travel itinerary.

4. Wi-Fi access

Think about wireless options if you need to work remotely, navigate your way around your destination, or speak to your family back home. Wi-Fi access in hotel rooms is not always free. At certain hotels, in-room internet can come with a heft daily charge, one that’s equivalent to what you might pay in a month with a wireless card. All major phone carriers sell internet cards – and you can also use them across different devices, whereas a hotel’s Wi-Fi will often only cover one device. Alternatively, sign up to CWT Hotel Intel  and you’ll be able to browse a directory of global hotels and read travelers’ own reviews. This will let you see which hotels rank highest in terms of Wi-Fi options – enabling you to make an informed choice about where to stay.

5. Clothing and accessories

Bring the right clothes. Being armed with the most appropriate jacket, pair of shoes or accessories can make all the difference when you’re preparing for a jam-packed itinerary – and even those spontaneous, last-minute drinks which are great for networking. You’re likely to need to pack a mixture of formal business attire and casual clothing, along with underwear, socks and pajamas. Bear in mind the weather at your destination – if it’s wet and windy, you’ll wish you’d packed a travel umbrella and a raincoat. Remember that toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste might not be provided in your hotel – so bring your own just in case.

6. Wallet or purse

Remembering your wallet or purse is an absolute must. Without it you’ll struggle to pay for anything on your business trip, causing yourself unnecessary headaches. Even if you’re likely be making most of your payments by card, it’s always good to have loose change and small notes for smaller items. As a general rule of thumb, only take what you need, like the cards you need to use, and take just a small handful of local currency – it’ll limit the damage if your wallet or purse gets lost or stolen. Make sure you have your wallet or purse close to hand – perhaps in a jacket or trouser pocket – so you can easily retrieve it when you need to.

7. Breath mints

When you’re meeting someone for the first time in the business world, it’s important to make a strong first impression. You never know who you might meet – and if this person is a client or potentially important connection, you don’t want to worry about bad breath. It’s easy to overlook this essential – so don’t forget to pack some mints to chew at regular intervals and particularly after meals.

8. Printed handouts

Ask yourself: what work documents do you need for your business trip? Whether it’s presentation handouts or meeting agendas, they’re an important part of any business travel checklist. Sure, there will probably be somewhere to print them at your destination, but don’t leave that to chance. It won’t take a minute to print and pack the handouts you need, and you’ll feel much better knowing you have them with you when you arrive at your destination.

9. Office supplies

Think about what kind of stationery you’ll need to take with you. It sounds simple, but if your business trip involves a client meeting, you’ll need a pen and notepad to record any action points and make sure you look organized. Think about what other office supplies you need to include on your business trip packing list – sticky notes to set yourself quick visual reminders, paperclips to keep your documents together, and folders to protect them from damage. You don’t need to take an entire office supply store with you – but a few useful items will really help.

10. Business cards

Even if you’re only intending to meet with familiar faces, you can’t leave business cards off your business trip packing list. You never know when you’ll bump into someone who could be a great addition to your network – and in those cases, you’ll want to be sure they can get in touch with you. Bring a generous supply of business cards so you don’t run out, and tuck them in your pockets, briefcase, wallet or purse so you’re always prepared when you make a connection. Business cards are essential if you’re going to a conference – and they make great name badges too.

Once you’ve ticked off each of these elements of your business travel checklist, don’t forget to check and double check.

Packing for an overnight trip

If you’re packing for an overnight trip, pack for carry-on luggage only. This will save you time when you arrive and eliminate the risk of losing your luggage. As such, you should aim to keep your business trip packing list to a minimum, taking a change of clothes and essential toiletries, your phone, laptop and a notepad and pen. You should also let key people know where you are, making sure your travel manager knows your business trip itinerary, and carry minimal cards and currency in your wallet or purse.

Travelling for 3, 4 or 5 days

Your business travel checklist will clearly be more extensive for a trip that’s a few days long. As well as the overnight trip essentials above, you’ll need a combination of smart and casual clothes. If you’re travelling between different destinations, consider where your internet access is coming from – a Wi-Fi card or hotspot is your key to staying productive and connected with the right people.

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Home > General Travel > Men's Minimalist Packing List

56 Travel Essentials for Minimalist Men (Packing List v. 6.0)

The sixth update of the 56-item packing list of minimimalist travel essentials for men that I've been fine-tuning for over a decade.

A Man is Judged by the Size of His Bag

In The Devil Wears Prada , Meryl Streep's character said, "You can always judge a woman by her bag." (…Probably. I never watched the movie.) I don't know about her general advice, but if she'd been talking about a traveler, she'd have been spot on.

You are what you pack.

A man with an enormous bag? Overcautious, inexperienced, and indecisive. And probably sweaty.

A man who can go for months with just a daypack? That's a happy camper who knows what's up.

And since you're reading this blog, you probably want to be the latter. So, without further ado, here's my go-to minimalist packing list for men that I've been perfecting for over a decade.

Minimalist Men's Travel Essentials Packing List

Big picture.

Because minimalist men always look at the big picture first. Click any to jump straight to it.

• 6 Bags – 2.3 lb
• 18 Clothes  – 8.4 lb
• 2 Shoes  – 1.5 lb
• 12 Electronic s – 5.5 lb
• 8 Toiletries – 0.5 lb
• 10 Miscellaneous – 0.8 lb
• Only Pack if Really Necessary

DO NOT Pack

TOTAL: 56 items, 19.5 lb

An Honest Packing List

As proof to you that my recommendations are legitimate and not money-grabbing affiliate links, I've included photos of me using my packing list items everywhere possible.

6 items, 2.3 lbs / 1.1 kg

• 1 laundry bag
• 3 ziploc bags

1.9 lb / 878 g

Ideal Specs:

• 32 liters or less
• Side water bottle pockets
• Reasonably lightweight but durable
• Easy-access front pocket
• Zippers with holes in them you can put a lock through
• Washing machine friendly
• Chest buckle but no bulky waist strap
• Laptop sleeve.

Recommendation:

After nine wonderful years, my trusty old Patagonia Fuego backpack got so decrepit that even Patagonia's repair team told me there was nothing they could do about it.

So I went hunting for a replacement?a modern upgrade to my old bag. I tell the story of the ups and downs of how I chose my backpack here .

To cut to the chase, I ended up with an Osprey Nebula .

We've only been together for two months, so maybe I'm still in the honeymoon phase, but so far I'm smitten. It has everything my old backpack had, but fresher and slightly better arranged. Its multitude of pockets is far from "minimalistic," but I find this makes it easier to manage all the items I pack.

8.2 oz / 232 g

I pack a super lightweight bag for carrying stuff around during the day.

Messenger bags are the best for this. Unlike backpacks, I don't need to take them off to get into them and I can swing them in front of me when in crowded pickpocket-prone places.

Recommendation: 

My 15L Patagonia Travel Courier conveniently stuffs into a little pouch that fits right in the front pocket of my backpack.

I like that it has a couple of water bottle holders (which I also often use as a quick-access pocket for my phone), a couple of secure zipped compartments, and an easily adjustable, comfortable shoulder strap.

Update: Patagonia no longer makes this bag. No other reputable company makes anything similar, either. For a replacement, I'd go back to what I used to have: an even lighter-weight sling like this one . Alternatively, I may get this inexpensive courier bag from Decathlon that Taylor recommended in the comments.

1 Laundry Bag

0.4 oz / 10 g

To separate your dirty laundry from clean clothes.

Any plastic bag will do, but you can get some fancy synthetic fabric bag if you have money to burn.

3 Ziploc Bags

1.2 oz / 36 g

• One for electronics. Put your little cords and Kindle and phone in a Ziploc bag. Even double-bag to avoid disaster.
• One for toiletries. Forget fancy toiletry bags.
• One for anything else. Like snacks, for example.

18 items, 8.4 lb / 3.8 kg

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 pair of nice shorts
• 2 sports shorts
• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 button-up
• 1 long-sleeved layer
• 1 sweatshirt
• 1 waterproof shell

Maximum Flexibility for Minimalist Packing

A minimalist packing list requires maximum flexibility, so I ensure every piece of clothing matches with the others. I also always choose easy-to-wash, difficult-to-stain, and quick-to-dry fabrics? especially merino wool ?over cotton.

1 Pair of Pants

1 lb / 459 g

• Look somewhat dressy, so they can be worn on many occasions, but still feel sporty and comfortable
• Deep pockets so things don't fall out of them in buses and cars
• Quick-dry fabric (not cotton)
• Drawstring (so no need for a belt)

Lululemon ABC Pants  look like khakis but are super stretchy and comfortable. The fabric is quick-drying and easy to maintain. The only knock on them is they don't have a drawstring, so be sure to get a perfect-fitting waist.

I wore them just about every day during our six months in Colombia   on everything from hikes to fancy dinners and they did the job perfectly .

1 Pair of Everyday Shorts

8.8 oz / 250 g

• Versatile enough to be able to wear out to restaurants but also on active excursions
• Drawstring (to avoid the extra weight of a belt)
• Deep pockets (protection from pickpockets and inadvertent escape of valuables)

My New Way Shorts from Outlier have exceeded my high expectations for them (even given their high?$125!?price) since I got them in May 2019.

And, most importantly, Kim loves them too! Unlike my previous go-to travel shorts, she has no problem with me wearing these out to dinner and other events where I need to be "presentable." So I wear them all the time.

For more about what I like (and don't like) about these shorts, see my in-depth review, Outlier New Way Shorts: Overhyped, Imperfect, and Awesome , and my 3 favorite men's shorts for travel, sports, style, and comfort .

2 Pairs of Sport Shorts

17 oz / 490 g

• Big front pockets that can safely hold your phone.
• Zipper pocket to hold cash, cards, and keys.
• At least one black pair, so it can double as a backup pair of regular shorts.
• Long enough so they can double as regular walking-around shorts.

Lululemon's Pace Breaker Shorts  are, simply put, my favorite sports shorts ever .

I've tried similar pairs from Patagonia, Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and more, but none have supplanted the Pace Breakers from their title.

Lululemon stands by their stuff, too. I brought in one 5-year-old pair that had seriously faded and they simply swapped it for a new one.

2 Pairs of Socks

2.8 oz / 80 g

• Black ankle socks
• Wool for less smelliness

My sister got me a couple of pairs of Darn Tough ankle socks for my birthday and I don't think I'll ever buy other socks again.

I'm so happy with them that they inspired a whole blog post on How to Pick Gifts Even Better than Santa: 8 Unconventional Tips .

Not only are these socks darn tough (they have a lifetime guarantee) but they're darn comfortable and darn stink resistant.

2 Pairs of Underwear

5.6 oz / 160 g

• A fly, or whatever the hole pulling your pecker out of is called.
• Extra, super, duper quick-dry material. You'll want to wash these with you in the shower, so they need to dry quickly.

Icebreaker Anatomica Boxers. My go-to used to be Tilley Travel Boxer Briefs, which are almost equally fantastic, but the Icebreaker's 83% merino wool provides better insulation and odor-fighting than Tilley's 100% polyester.

I like both pairs better than the MeUndies, ExOfficio, Saxx, Patagonia, and Under Armour pairs I've also tried.

10.6 oz / 300 g

Up until 2018, I was happy with plain 100% polyester singlets. They packed light and stayed reasonably cool.

Then I got a merino wool tank from the Icebreaker shop at the outlet mall. It's lighter, cooler, and way less smelly. And by less smelly, I mean even when it gets drenched with sweat from a workout, it hardly smells after it dries. So I barely wear my old synthetic singlets anymore.

My slight preference is for my Unbound merino tank (discontinued) I got in 2019 because it's softer, though a bit heavier (which looks nicer but isn't as cooling). Of the other brands I have, I prefer the Smartwool tanks over Icebreaker's Anatomica tanks .

1 Plain T-Shirt

5.7 oz / 162 g

Recommendation(s):

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino Tee .

I had no problems with my Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere merino t-shirts (still don't), but Outlier offered me one so I said why not. Maybe I'd love it as much as I do their shorts . If not, I'd give it to my brother, who was visiting us in Cape Town .

Well, as you can see in the photo above, I'm wearing the shirt and my brother isn't.

The Outlier tee's heavier than Icebreaker's, but it's noticeably softer too and still insulating enough to keep me cool in here in the South African summer. I instinctively put it on instead of my Icebreaker ones, so I guess I like it more.

November 2022 Update: I put my money where my mouth is and bought a couple more Outlier t-shirts?this time in darker colors so that they don't show sweat stains and other marks as much.

1 Button-Up Collared Shirt

• Lightweight, so it can double as a beach shirt that protects you from the sun
• Chest pocket, which is handy for boarding passes
• Wrinkle resistant

The Wool&Prince wool-linen button-down shirt .

It has the relaxed, casual look of a linen shirt with the odor-fighting and stain-repelling benefits of merino wool. This makes it perfect for travel, especially to the warm-weather places Kim and I prefer to visit.

?nearly perfect.

While the linen gives the shirt a cooler look and feel than pure merino, it also makes the shirt more wrinkle-prone. But not so wrinkly my wife won't let me wear it. And not nearly as wrinkly as the 100% linen shirts I own, which I never end up wearing because I rather not go out than have to iron a shirt.

1 Long-Sleeved Layer

7.9 oz / 225 g

• Lightweight but warm.
• Not too sporty-looking, so it can be worn around the city without looking like a granola outdoors-enthusiast who's trying to signal how adventurous they are.
• Snug enough to be a mid or base layer, but not so snug that it suffocates my torso.

I've gone through a lot of these shirts, from Costco brand to Patagonia. (I actually liked the Costco brand one more.)

As of October 2020, I've been experimenting with something different: an alpaca wool base layer from Arms of Andes .

The team there read my post on merino wool's pros and cons , contacted me to tell me alpaca's better, then sent me the shirt to prove it.

So far, so intriguing.

The shirt is incredibly warm for its weight; I've been comfortable wearing just it and a t-shirt this fall in 10?C/50?F temperatures. And I've yet to wash it (as of Nov 2022!) despite wearing it for dozens of outdoor workouts . I probably should wash it, but it's annoyingly hand-wash-only, so I just air it out in the sun, which seems to be good enough.

The fabric feels nearly as soft as cashmere, but it also has the same slightly scratchy feel on bare skin (which good merino wool doesn't have).

1 Sweatshirt

15.5 oz / 439 g

• Black or grey for easy matching and stain resistance
• Zip-up front for better climate control
• A hood for extra warmth and to cover up messy hair

I don't know anymore.

In the photo above, I'm probably on my phone researching the best hoodies out there.

I like the performance and zip pockets of my Icebreaker Quantum II hoodie , but hate its stupid-looking and uncomfortable scuba-style hood, so I wouldn't buy it again.

Whenever it falls apart, I figure out how to make enough money off this blog to not feel bad about replacing a perfectly good sweatshirt with a new-er one, or I convince Unbound to give me one for free, I'll replace it with their compact travel hoodie .

1 Lightweight Jacket

12.8 oz / 362 g

• Zipper pockets
• Inner chest pocket
• Water-resistant
• Packable into a pouch

Patagonia's Nano Puff Jacket  because it exactly meets every one of my criteria.

Kim liked mine so much, she got herself one and now considers it one of her 15 top travel essentials .

1 Waterproof Shell

13 oz / 371 g

• Waterproof (This may sound obvious, but many a dumbass has bought a water-resistant shell thinking it's waterproof)
• Zip-up front
• At least one outside pocket

This type of jacket is a dime-a-dozen. Go with REI or MEC or some other reputable outdoor brand that stands behind their product quality. Or go to an outlet mall. That's where I found a good deal on my Lululemon waterproof jacket , which is doing the job for me.

2 oz / 60 g

Get a hat you don't mind squashing in the bottom of your bag, not some pristine New Era cap with the sticker still on it.

If you're going somewhere cold, pack a knitted cap instead of a baseball hat.

In October 2020, I said sayonara to the weathered red trucker cap with my brother's business on the front and got something more technical: Lululemon's Fast and Free Run Hat Elite .

Yeah, "Elite."

I don't need an "elite" hat for my travel purposes. But its lightweight, easy-care, and inconspicuousness do the trick for me.

I also considered a cap from Ciele . A lot of people love them but I refuse to pay a premium price let them plaster their brand name in giant letters atop my forehead.

6 oz / 171 g

Get a lightweight, quick-dry (not cotton!) towel. This is the rare item of which you don't want to get the smallest size possible. It should be big enough to wrap around your waist.

These towels serve the additional purpose of being beach blankets, and you can tuck them under your hat too for Arab-style neck and shoulder protection.

The large-sized PackTowl from MEC has served me well for longer than I can remember. (Or, better put, longer than I've been keeping track of everything with my lifelogging practice.)

2 items, 2.0 lb / 0.9 kg

• 1 pair of sandals
• 1 pair of runners

1 Pair of Sandals

13 oz / 374 g

• Durable, so the strap doesn't fall apart when you're in the middle of nowhere. This seems to happen to some friend of mine and their Havaianas every other trip.
• Not stinky. Constant exposure to sweaty bare feet can make cheap sandals a noxious threat to everything else you pack with them in your bag or to a whole room when you take them off.
• Comfortable enough to be able to walk in all day long without forming blisters or rashes.
• Good for my feet.

Most of you reading this will not like my recommendation. It's not stylish nor particularly practical. But it makes up for it in terms of functionality.

My recommendation:

Shamma's performance sandals .

Since I got my Maximus sandals in October 2022, they're the only shoe I've worn?for hiking, running, errands, and even going out for dinner, though Kim wasn't happy with that style choice.

They're easily my favorite purchase of the year.

I used to wear Xero Cloud barefoot sandals, but they go beyond minimalist into the realm of flimsiness. They'd hurt my knees when walking on cement, especially when lugging around my 1.5-year-old son. I also could never get the straps just right and they were never comfortable.

These Shammas have none of those problems. They're comfortable, have easy-to-adjust straps, and have a thick enough sole to pad my joints for city strolling.

The downsides are the straps look Jesus-hippy-esque and you can't slip them on hands-free like regular flip-flops. But Katy Bowman convinced me in her book, Move Your DNA , that flip-flops can mess up your feet, so I suck it up, bend over to put them on, and look kind of stupid.

I got the plain black version because that's all I could find in Vancouver, Canada. If I were in the US, I'd get one of their brown leather models, which Kim says don't look so bad.

1 Pair of Running Shoes

1.2 lb / 194 g

• Black, so they don't show dirt and can be worn in cities with pants without looking too stupid.
• Super lightweight. You should be able the easily bend them in half.
• Zero drop (i.e., no elevation of the ankles relative to the toes).

The above photos are of Lems Primal 2s . I've gone through two pairs over the past three years. They're a solid alternative to the fancier, pricier, and more popular Vivobarefoot Primus shoes that Kim wears .

But the soles are a bit too thin for some of the jumping and baby-carrying I do on unforgiving surfaces, so my newest and yet-to-be-fully-tested?or even photographed?addition to this packing list is a pair of thicker-soled Lems Primal Zen shoes .

Given my positive experience with the Primal 2s, I'm feeling pretty confident?"zen," even??that these new Zens will work out great.

Electronics

13 items, 5.5 lb / 2.5 kg.

• Laptop with case and charger
• Cell phone and case
• Extension cord
• USB charging cube

Laptop With Case And Charger

3.9 lb / 1785 g

I've got a Macbook, but I won't begrudge you if you prefer non-Apple products.

Cell Phone & Case

6.3 oz / 180 g

Get a ghetto case to diminish thieves' desire to steal it, but that's good enough to diminish the risk of cracking your phone's screen if you drop it.

Recommendation

Speck Presidio cases .

I had the same Speck case for over four years, and just replaced it this December. The new one costed something around $25, but I got the previous at Winners for $9.99.

Over the course of the four years I had it, the extraneous bits broke off (in true minimalist fashion), but it held my phone together. My screen has yet to crack (knock on wood) despite having dropped my phone dozens of times.

Don't cheap out on getting a local SIM wherever you go.

It's happened to me twice where I've gone to a country, decided against getting a SIM, put my phone on airplane mode, lost it, and couldn't find it because Find My iPhone doesn't work in airplane mode. I'm a slow learner, but now the first thing I do when I arrive in a foreign country is get a local SIM card. Do the same, no matter how cheap you are or disconnected you want to be.

E-Reader & Case

8 oz / 230 g

If you don't have a Kindle (or another brand of e-reader), get one already.

Don't bring your Kindle charger, though. Just bring a tiny USB to micro USB cord you can plug into your computer.

The Kindle Paperwhite . It's less than half the price ($120) of the newer Oasis model ($250) but has absolutely everything you'd ever need: enough storage to hold thousands of books, multiple-week-long battery life, super lightweight and durable, and a backlight for reading at night without bothering others.

An Extension Cord (My Secret Weapon)

9 oz / 250 g

You might think an extension cord is unnecessary, especially for a so-called minimalist packing list. Maybe you're right because I don't know if I've ever seen anyone else who packs one. But just because nobody else does it doesn't mean it's wrong. I'd argue the opposite.

I use my extension cord just about every day, everywhere I go. Not only does it allow me to reach distant plugs in airports, bus stations, and poorly designed hotel rooms, but it also doubles or triples the number of power outlets. It can be used as a clothesline or a rope in a pinch too.

Get a standard 12-foot cord , but make sure it is two-pronged, not three, so you can easily attach adaptors to it.

USB Wall Charging Cube

0.9 oz / 25 g

This you can use to charge your phone, headphones, and e-reader.

0.3 oz / 10 g

Your phone, computer, and Kindle can handle voltages from any country, so you just need a cheap dollar store adaptor.

You only need one adaptor if you get an extension cord with multiple sockets at the end of it.

Wireless Headphones

• Water-resistant enough not to get damaged from my excessively sweaty ears.
• Fit well enough not to fall out when doing handstands and jumping exercises.

Recommendation : 

After 5 happy years with Plantronics BackBeat FIT headphones , their microphone stopped working so I decided to try something new: the Apple AirPods Pro .

Enough people rave about them online already, so I'll spare you that. I don't even care much for the noise cancellation mode. I just care that they stay in my ears, have long enough batteries, and are durable. It's been 3 months and they've held up well so far. Give me another year before I join the choir of fanboys.

8 items, 0.5 lb / 0.2 kg

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Razor and shaving cream
• Toilet paper

Travel-Sized Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss

1.7 oz / 51 g total

If you don't floss, start. "One less thing to pack," is not an excuse.

Razor and Shaving Cream

2.4 oz / 70 g total

You lucky guys who can grow luscious full beards might not need this one and the next.

For splinters, in-growns, and whatever else is in you but shouldn't be.

One great tip from a reader is to bring the extra small ones from a Swiss Army knife. You can buy them individually at MEC in Canada for just $2.50 . I imagine you can find the same at similar outdoor stores like REI in other countries.

1.8 oz / 50 g

I went on a bit of a rant against sunscreen in our post on clich? travel tips and what to do instead , but you should still bring some.

Even if you're going to the UK, be optimistic. Just keep the bottle under 100 ml. so you can fly with it.

Toilet Paper In A Small Ziploc

1.1 oz / 30 g

Take out the tube. Always have some on you just in case.

Miscellaneous

10 items, 0.8 lb / 0.4 kg.

• Zipper lock
• Drivers license
• 2 Credit cards
• Travel insurance contact info
• 100 to 300 USD
• Water bottle

1 Zipper Lock

2.1 oz / 60 g

When I'm on an overnight bus or leaving my bag in the luggage storage at a hotel, having my zipper locked gives me a bit of peace of mind. Sure it can be cut, but a thief's likely to go to the next, unlocked bag instead.

I prefer locks with a flexible band, like these MasterLock ones that are around $12 for two.

1.3 oz / 38 g

I don't bother taking a printed copy but I do have a digital copy saved on my Google Drive.

Drivers License

0.2 oz / 5 g

For ID and for renting cars, if necessary.

2 Credit Cards

0.1 oz / 3 g

Take two because there's always the chance one gets canceled or lost or doesn't work with a certain ATM.

If you're a fellow Canadian, save yourself a bunch of money by getting one of the credit cards from my Best Canadian Credit Cards for International Travel post.

Travel Insurance Contact Card

0.1 oz / 2 g

I never thought of carrying a printed card with my travel insurer's contact info until a few of the travel insurance industry insiders I interviewed for my guide on how to buy the best travel insurance told me to.

If something bad happens, I need to call my insurer ASAP. If not, there's a risk I could have to pay a portion of the charges.

And if I'm too hurt to contact them, the hospital needs to know who's paying. Some foreign hospitals turn back injured travelers who don't have proof of insurance.

100-300 USD

0.4 oz / 11 g

I hope you don't mind me counting this as one item in my packing list, not three-hundred.

Always have cash as a backup. Keep it separated in two different hiding spots within your stuff. I often hide some in my rolled-up socks.

0.3 oz / 8 g

For filling customs forms and writing letters to put into bottles.

1 Carabiner

0.5 oz / 15 g

For attaching stuff (dirty wet clothes, shoes, water bottle) to the outside of your bag.

1 Water Bottle

6.7 oz / 189 g

Ideal Spec:

• Has a loop so you can attach it to your bag. If you don't fasten your water bottle to your bag while on the move, you're guaranteed to lose it at some point.

After years of not having a water bottle worth recommending for my minimalist packing list, I now have one:

The CamelBak Chute .

I immediately fell for it?so hard that it's already on my shortlist of favorite things I'd immediately buy again . As I wrote in that post:

The spout is the ideal size for chugging from when I?m super thirsty; the handy magnet keeps the cap from hitting my face when I?m drinking; and the size is perfect for backpack side pockets and car cup holders.

And, unlike many other things on my packing list, it's inexpensive. The only small downside is the "loop" isn't flexible like on a Nalgene, but hard plastic. I don't mind much, but Kim always points it out to me.

Only If Really Necessary

Bar of soap.

You can almost always get by using soaps and shampoos in the bathrooms on the road, but if you really don't want to risk it I particularly like my shampoo bar , which lasts forever and creates tons of suds for a complete head-to-toe wash.

I've managed to survive a lifetime without sunglasses ( Update: I now wear cheap ones to protect my eyes from sand when playing beach volleyball). If you insist, just make sure to get good ones with UV protection.

This is something I would normally buy on location, since it can be hard to predict whether bug spray will be needed or not.

Reader Suggestions

I don't pack the following but other readers do. Here are some small additional items to consider:

• Toothpick from a Swiss Army Knife. You can't take the knife if you're not checking a bag, but reader Barry swears by the toothpick. You can buy one for $1 at MEC in Canada or, I imagine, REI in the US or whatever the outdoor store is in your country.
• A small instrument. A little plastic flute like this one  or a harmonica. As the reader writes, "This will drive you crazy (and make you dizzy) for two weeks till you figure out how to play it, but once you do you can have a lot of joy." It's a great idea.
• A couple of USB flash drives.  These can be lifesavers if you're unable to back up your data to the cloud.

❌  A Big Wallet

Just carry a couple cards and maybe a money clip. You probably won't need your Costco card where you're going, so you don't need anything more than that.

❌  A Bathing Suit

Your sport shorts double as your bathing suit.

Sorry, Speedo lovers, but your banana hammock stays home.

❌  Zip-Off Pant/Shorts

I'm fine with making sacrifices to have a true minimalist packing list, but zip-off pant/shorts is taking it too far.

❌  Snacks

This may sound radical. It sure was radical to me. But now I believe in it and preach it far and wide.

You don't need snacks. Ever. So don't carry them. Not only does it lessen your load, but it may also reduce your jet lag .

It doesn't matter how long you're traveling. You can go days without food and without suffering. Before you dismiss this as insanity, read my fasting FAQ and tips and the story of my first three-day fast . It was enough to get Kim's parents to try it. Maybe it'll do the same for you.

Take a Load Off

Altogether, this minimalist packing list for men contains 56 items and weighs in at only 8.8 kg or 19.2 lb. And unless you're traveling around butt naked, you'll be typically wearing a good 5 lbs of that, so it'll weigh closer to 14 lb.

Everything fits into one small, nondescript, and easy-to-carry backpack. You won't have to roll your clothes to get them to fit in your bag, you won't be missing anything, and you'll be shaking your head every time you see a poor sucker with a needlessly giant bag.

Before You Pack Up and Leave…

What are your favorite items you'd have on your own minimalist packing list?

Do you think I missed anything or included something unnecessary?

Contribute in the comments  below.

Read This Next:

How to Travel To Change Who You Are

Long-Term Travel Packing List for Women: A Not-Too-Long List

Travel Essentials for Women: 15 Favorites to Never Forget

Update history.

I continuously update my minimalist packing list as new products and new technologies emerge and as I discover different brands and alternatives.

Here's the tracking of what I've changed.

November 2022 Update:

• I replaced most important item of my entire packing list, my backpack! Out with my faithful 9-year-old Patagonia Paxat and in with my very-similar-but-certainly-an-upgrade Osprey Nebula . Here's hoping this new relationship lasts just as long as my previous one.
• Since my Xero Cloud barefoot sandals provide no protection when walking on cement, I replaced them with so-far-so-amazing Shamma Maximuses .
• My J. Crew cotton hoodie wore out, so I replaced it with a technically-superior but comfort-ly-inferior Icebreaker Quantum II hoodie that, due to it's dumb hood, I will eventually replace with Unbound merino's compact travel hoodie .
• The MEC Aquanator Jacket that kept me dry since 2006 died of old age, so I replaced it with a Lululemon waterproof jacket .
• Someone stole my Oura Ring and I've decided not to replace it because A) It's expensive for a low-paid blogger like me and B) Thanks to what I've learned from the ring I now have a pretty good intuitive sense of how well I sleep and what factors help and hurt me. Plus, the new model has a monthly pricing plan which I refuse to support.

December 2020 Update:

• My third pair of Plantronics BackBeat FIT headphones bit the dust, so I decided to bite the bullet and try something new for the first time in 5 years with the AirPods Pro.
• I flip-flopped on my vow of eternal devotion to Crocs Swiftwater Flips and have mostly replaced them with less comfortable, less attractive, and less easy to wear Xero Cloud barefoot sandals. They're better for my feet and for intense exercise.
• The Unbound merino tank has usurped one of my Icebreaker Anatomica tanks .
• I replaced my quick-to-stink Patagonia Men's Capilene Zip-Neck with an Arms of Andes alpaca wool base layer in October, and I've yet to have to wash it despite heavy use in Vancouver's fall weather.
• My Icebreaker Shifter Hoodie bit the dust. Or maybe too many moths bit it. Whatever the case, it had too many holes and frays after 3 years of heavy use so Kim made me throw it away. Until I find something better, I'm lounging in a regular cotton J. Crew hoodie.

February 2020 Update:

• The Outlier Ultrafine Merino Tee has proven itself to be finer than my Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere t-shirts.
• The Lems Primal 2 minimalist shoes have replaced my old New Balance 20v7 Minimus Trainers .
• After never having had a water bottle worth recommending, I discovered the CamelBak Chute , which I not only added to this list but also on the shortlist of my favorite things I'd immediately buy again.

July 2019 Update:

• My Venture Trek Tech shorts from Tilley had a great 10-year run, but have been replaced by my Outlier New Ways.
• My Patagonia Anatomic Sling bit the dust after 4 repairs and 7 years, so I replaced it with a Patagonia Travel Courier.
• Wool&Prince's wool-linen button-down shirt easily unseated the old linen shirt I got from a boutique in Sri Lanka and has now become my go-to here in Valencia, Spain.

May 2019 Update:

• Instead of any old pair of socks, I'm now all about Darn Tough.
• My Icebreaker Anatomica boxers have taken the title from my Tilleys for best underwear.
• My Lululemon t-shirts have been usurped in preference by my Icebreaker ones.

December 2018 Update:

• I now wear an Oura Ring sleep tracker everywhere I go, so it's earned its way onto the list along with its little charger.
• The Nike Free 5.0+ shoes have been kicked to the curb in favor of some even lighter, more comfortable, and, hopefully, more durable New Balance 20v7s.
• A technical merino tank top from Icebreaker has replaced the polyester ones I used to use.
• The Arcteryx Cover Cardigan's been swapped out for an Icebreaker hoodie.

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

31 thoughts on “56 Travel Essentials for Minimalist Men (Packing List v. 6.0)”

A good thing to attach to your bag is a Bluetooth tracker like Tile or Chipolo. In the event you misplace your bag, nearby you're able to ring it to make a sound and locate it on your phone.

The item is either to attach to your zipper or anywhere on your bag

That's a fantastic suggestion, Wes. Thanks! I hadn't heard of trackers like that, so I'm going to look into them right now…

Good list for general travel! I would appreciate if you stress this aspect from the start of the article.

"A man with an enormous bag is overcautious, inexperienced, and indecisive. And probably sweaty.

A man who can go for months with just a daypack? That’s a happy camper who knows what’s up." – This feels misleading.

If you were to go on a 1-2 week hike (or even a few days)in Peru or Nepal for example and you have to camp and cook, you would need a lot more stuff. The equipment you recommend is top quality and damm expensive, that's where some of the "weight loss" comes from. Also I agree that fasting works, just that it's a big difference if you do it in a controlled way or if you are climbing cold mountains.

Hey Sandu. You're totally right. A man who shows up with just a daypack for a multi-day trek is going to end up being the opposite of a happy camper! It's easy to distinguish between a guy carrying a big bag full of camping stuff en-route to a hike and one who's heading to their luxury Airbnb while carrying a big bag full of unnecessary trinkets, shoes, and clothes though, don't you agree?

Hey. Agree… was just a little frustrated cause I read the article on phone and went through it all just to find that there is no camping equipment included 🙂 Guess it was more about expectations, other than that it is a really good list!

What’s your thoughts on deodorant…no seriously. I’ve found that using deodorant gets on the inside of my Icebreaker shirts and gives bacteria a place to live. The armpits start to smell after 2-3 times of wearing them.

Hey Tim. I've found the exact same, which is why I don't pack deodorant. On average I've experienced that not using deodorant keeps me less stinky… but there are still some seemingly random times when my pits explode with B.O.

For that reason, when I'm not traveling and going to some social event, I sometimes apply deodorant to "keep me covered" for a few hours, even though I know later in the night, hopefully after I'm home, it'll probably make me smell worse.

You forgot deodorant. Or don't use any?

Hey Emilio, Yeah I don't pack it when I'm packing light. See my response to the previous comment for my take on deodorant.

Hey Chris, I was looking to get a good packable backpack for my upcoming trip to Thailand and found this backpack https://the-most-functional-packable.kckb.st/96ac29dc on Indiegogo. What do you think about it? Looks like a great backpack for travel, I was just looking for some opinions before I made my decision… By the way, I love the content you have been posting lately 🙂

Hey Nic. At 10oz/280g that bag's impressively light. I guess it'd take the place of the messenger bag day pack in my packing list. I prefer the messenger style in general because it's easier access than a backpack, but if you're going to hike a lot or carry heavy laptops and whatnot this style will be more comfortable. If you get it, keep us posted on what you think of it. Enjoy Thailand!

A lot of this is going to depend on where you are going, with who, and what activities you want to be prepared for.

Hiking or camping will have a whole different set of priorities than a bar-hopping trip, or a trip to visit the red light district.

A trip to another country by plane to go on walking tours will have significantly different needs than a road trip to the next state to visit a museum.

I totally agree. This packing list can serve as a guide that people can alter based on specific needs. I do the same myself.

Have to say I've never packed specifically for a trip to visit the red light district, though! Please do write a post on that packing list.

How do you wash your clothes? With so few you'd have to wash daily usually, no?

Hey Rick. I normally use soap I scrounge up wherever I'm staying. Sometimes a packable laundry stick if I'm feeling fancy. It's really just the underwear and socks that need washing. The rest, especially the merino stuff, lasts a long time before needing a clean.

This post should have been named the ultimate guide of the packing lists for men. Because it has covered everything a guy needs to pack while traveling.

How are you liking the Lems Primal Zen shoes so far? I also had a pair of Primal 2s that I loved and have been eying these after I wear my current shoes out.

Hey Andy — I've barely worn them so far because I got my Shamma sandals at about the same time and those have been able to do everything I've needed. On the one hike I took the Zens on, they did the trick. It'll be another 6 months minimum before I have enough experience to compare them to the Primal 2s.

Just curious, what does Kim's list look like?

A long longer than mine! She listed some of the items here: https://www.theunconventionalroute.com/packing-list-for-women/

• Pingback: The 7-Step Self-Improvement Plan That Works (If You Do)

Hi Chris! This is a great list and article. It was super helpful for me my first time backpacking Europe last year. I have purchased many of the items. Thanks for keeping it updated! The courier bag was one of my favorite items. You said there is nothing like it, but I found this one at a Decathlon sporting goods store in Italy last year. Here is the link to the item on their website to order one. Hope this helps!

https://www.decathlon.sg/p/trekking-15l-compact-messenger-bag-forclaz-travel-black-forclaz-8560413.html

Hi Taylor. Glad you found the list helpful. And thanks for sharing the link for the courier bag! Will update now to mention it. Happy travels.

nail file/emory board! (didn't see cheap clippers which could also serve)- not just for that one snagged nail- but to file off …all kinds of things (think prison breakout!).

chapstick. I have the addiction. Ok ok – lip balm of some sort.

OH yeah – I didn't know what that ring thing is – had to look it up.

And….zip ties – I bring about a half dozen. useful for so many temporary securities – take no space or weight.

headlamp -saving the stubbed toes when peeing in the middle of the night – and other usees

list of emergency contact people at home

something else i wanted to mention -but too tired.

I like the zip tie and emergency contact ideas. Thanks, Suzie

I can’t believe how much overly detailed words I read to just have my few deleted because of all the Fn too many ads on your blog. It’s like such a hypocritical thing just like your judgment on others pack size comment I wonder what a blog with sooo many ads says about a person?? Yet I will hold my tongue. In hopes this doesn’t get deleted I’ve never once thought I need an extension cord. Thou I liked you find it helpful for needs. I like a universal adapter with multi usb plug-ins including a quick charging c I also bring small individual country plug bit as often in like Europe not as easy to just plug that adapter just straight into extension cords supplied at accommodations. A portable battery bank with all the cords attached to itself. Makes sense as solo traveling to always get charges on the go because how often I use google maps ! E SIM card way easier less Sea to summit x-seal large bowl for breakfast at Airbnb /accommodation plus can take breakfasts with to early flights ect to avoid spending more than tasty. I like a no sugar protein bar in pack incase thou nothing more and recommend always making sure getting balanced diet when travelling so are healthy to avoid getting sick 😉 Anywho luck being the individual that you each are and remember apart of the experience of getting to know yourself is figuring this all out on your own. Or ask Kim what she thinks

Haha. All the ads say "I'm not an independently wealthy person and I rather not try to make money by making affiliate commission by pimping things I wouldn't buy myself, so I let a company put ads on my site to pay my bills." If you can suggest better ways to monetize, I'm all ears. Thanks for your packing suggestions!

Absolutely love the packing list. I travel with something very similar and have exactly the same backpack as you – Osprey Nebula.

I have a question about how you lock it; do you use the padlock through the zips themselves or the tassels that attach to the zips? And which compartment do you lock, the main compartment and/or the laptop sleeve?

Thanks for the help,

Thanks Brad. Good question. Since getting the bag, I haven't traveled anywhere where I needed to lock it. When I do, I'll get one of those little locks with the wire that will fit on the zips (not the tassels, which will be too easy to cut). Or two? Depends on where I put my valuables. I'd probably just lock the main one.

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Solo Travel Packing List for Males – 100 Items Men Must Pack

Wondering what to pack when traveling alone as a man ? Worried that you’re going to forget essential items? Relax. Preparing for your trip is easy when you use my solo travel packing list for males.

This packing list contains 100 items that every man needs for solo travel; including essential documents, different types of bags, electronics, gadgets, clothing, shoes, toiletries and miscellaneous extras. It is suitable for trips of any length, from a few days to a few months.

I’ve also listed items that should not be included on a male solo travel packing list. Plus, I help you decide between a suitcase vs backpack and share my top ten tips for travel packing.

Learn about male solo travel from a man that’s done it for 5+ years – only on Nomadic Yak!

Essentials and documents

Bags and backpacks, electronics and gadgets, clothes and shoes, miscellaneous extras, photography.

• What Not to Include
• Suitcase vs Backpack
• Packing Tips
• More Solo Travel Tips

Solo Travel Packing List for Males – 100 Essential Items for Men

Regardless of where and when you are travelling, there are some essential items and documents that must be included on every man’s solo travel packing list. 

• Passport 
• Driving licence – If you plan on driving around your destination, check whether you are required to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• Visas – Check whether you need a visa to visit your destination. Use your official government travel advisory.
• Tickets and reservations – You will likely have your flights, transport and booking information stored in your email. Download the files to a folder on your phone in case you don’t have internet access. You could also print off physical copies in case you lose your phone.
• Credit and debit cards – Before leaving, alert your bank that you will be travelling overseas so that your cards aren’t blocked. Also, consider getting a travel debit card, which can help you save on transaction, withdrawal and exchange fees.
• Local currency – Visit an exchange before leaving and get about $100-200 USD of currency for your destination. You may need it when you arrive, for transport from the airport to your accommodation.
• Extra passport photos – Can be used if you need to replace a lost or stolen passport whilst overseas.
• Copies of your ID – Scan and save a digital copy of your passport, driving licence and any other form of ID. Consider also printing off a copy of each and carrying it with you.
• Vaccination certificate – Some countries may recommend or require you to show proof of vaccination upon entry. Check this CDC list of destinations .
• Bank statements – Some countries will require you to show that you have a certain amount of savings upon entry.
• Travel insurance documents – Some countries will require you to show proof of travel insurance upon entry.
• Emergency contacts – Carry a piece of paper with your emergency contacts (in case you lose your phone). Also, set up the emergency contacts feature on your iPhone or Android .
• Plastic folder – Use a thin plastic folder to store all the essential documents on your solo travel packing list for males. Stow it in your carry-on bag.
• Travel wallet – Use a travel wallet to store your passport, cash and cards in one easy-to-reach place when travelling alone.

All Your Vital Documents in One Safe Place

Zero Grid Travel Wallet

• No more fumbling around for passports, credit cards, cash, pens, etc.
• Small enough to slide in your pocket or backpack.
• Protects against card skimmers and pickpockets.

Most male solo travellers carry one large bag for luggage, one mid-sized bag for day use and a number of smaller bags for specific purposes. Your setup will depend on the type of equipment you are taking. It will also depend on how you like to travel and how manoeuvrable you want to be.

• Suitcase or 70L travel backpack (luggage) – This big bag will carry your clothes and toiletries. See the section below when trying to decide between a suitcase vs a backpack for solo male travel. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
• Small backpack (day/carry-on bag) – This smaller backpack will carry your electronics, essential documents and miscellaneous extras. High-quality travel backpacks (such as the 70L Osprey Farpoint ) come with a detachable daypack.
• Bum bag – You can use a fanny pack for carrying small items on day trips (when you don’t want to carry a small backpack). When not in use, I stow it in my small backpack.
• Faux leather toiletries bag – For keeping all your toiletries together and hygienic. If you’re backpacking and need to save space, use a roll-up toiletry bag instead .
• Ziplock bags x3 – Keep together small items and keep your phone dry in the wet.
• Dry bag (optional) – If you plan on partaking in water sports such as kayaking or tubing during your solo male travel, a dry bag will protect your things from the wet.
• Backpack rain cover (optional) – If you are travelling during the rainy season and concerned about your backpack getting soaked, protect it with a cover.

My Daily Go-To

Eastpak Doggy Bag

• Worn close to the body. Can’t easily be snatched.
• No more walking around with bulging pockets.
• Heaps of storage: I can easily fit my iPhone X, Airpods, wallet, charging cable, and sanitiser.

The electronic devices and gadgets that a man includes on his solo travel packing list will depend on how long he will be travelling, how much photography he will be doing and whether or not he will need to work whilst travelling.

• Smartphone and case – Your smartphone is your lifeline when travelling alone as a male. Protect it with a shock-proof case and a glass screen protector .
• Multi-charging cable – One cable with three connectors – lightning, USB C and Micro USB. Can be used to charge all my devices (iPhone, iPad, Airpods, GoPro, power bank) without carrying multiple cables.
• Local SIM Card – Most of the time, you will buy a local SIM card upon arriving at your destination. However, sometimes you can preorder them in advance and pick them up at the airport. Just make sure you buy a SIM with plenty of data.
• Global adapter – Rather than buying an adapter for each country that you visit, buy a global adapter with multiple USB A and USB C charging ports. Make sure that it has adapters for the USA, UK, EU and Australia.
• Airpod Pros 2 – Earbuds are preferable to headphones because they take up less space. I also protect my Airpod Pros with a rubber case .
• Airfly Bluetooth transmitter – Listen to aeroplane movies on your Bluetooth earphones. Only takes 10 seconds to set up and means you don’t have to use crappy airline earphones.
• VPN – One of my best solo travel safety tips is to connect to a VPN before using any public Wi-Fi network. This will help to protect you from having your data stolen. 
• Maps.Me – This is the best navigation app for solo travel overseas. It allows you to download offline maps and save points of interest so that you can always find your way around without internet access.
• Laptop and sleeve case (optional) – It is not necessary to travel with your laptop unless you will need it for work. Most of your bookings and trip organisation can be done on your smartphone.
• iPad (optional) – Again, it is not necessary to include a tablet on your solo travel packing list for males. However, it is nice if you want to read or watch a film. It can also be handy for photo editing software.
• Kindle E-reader (optional) – Do not take a separate E-reader if you have already included a tablet device on your solo travel packing list. Save space by using apps such as Kindle or Apple Books on your tablet.
• Power bank (optional) – If you take a power bank, be sure to pack it in your carry-on luggage. It cannot be stored in your checked luggage on flights.
• Airtag (optional) – Place the Airtag in your luggage so that you can track its location if it is lost by an airline or stolen.
• Nintendo Switch (optional) – Keep yourself entertained during long flights and lonely nights.

3 Pieces of Tech I Take on Every Solo Trip

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

• 4 different plugs cover 150 countries.
• 6 simultaneous charging ports: USB-A, USB-C and AC.

Multi Charging Cable

• 3-in-1 fast-charging adapters: lightning, USB-C and Micro-USB.
• Retractable for easier packing.

AirFly Bluetooth Transmitter

• Listen to airplane movies on my Bluetooth earphones.
• 10-second setup.
• No more crappy airline earphones.

Your season of travel, the size of your bags, the duration of your trip and the type of trip that you are undertaking (e.g. adventure, backpacking, luxury, etc.) will determine the types of clothes and shoes that you include on your solo travel packing list for males. 

• Underwear x5
• Socks x5 – Include one pair of thick dry-tech hiking socks if you plan on trekking.
• Swimsuit x1 – Try to take a pair that can double as both sports shorts and swim shorts.
• Shorts x1 – Avoid denim shorts as most men find that they chafe. Instead, take cotton, linen or moisture-wicking fabric.
• Tee-shirt or tank top x4
• Long-sleeved top x1 – Offers sun protection in summer and warmth in winter for men travelling alone.
• Sweatshirt x1 – Even the warmest destinations can get chilly sometimes (especially during the night). Take a sweatshirt or hoodie for warmth.
• Bucket hat x1 – Protect your face and neck from the sun and keep your hair out of your face.
• Sunglasses and case – Protect your eyes from sun damage. Particularly important when visiting the sea or snow.
• Rain jacket or poncho x1 – If you will be travelling solo during the wet season, take a proper rain jacket or rain shell that can be packed into its own little bag. If you think there is only an occasional chance of rain, a throwaway poncho should suffice.
• Trainers or sneakers x1 – It’s worth investing in a good pair of men’s trainers or sneakers that provide comfort, support and grip. These will be your main shoes when travelling solo.
• Sandals or flip flops x1 – All men should include flip flops on their solo travel packing list. They can be used at the beach, in the shower, around your accommodation and for quick trips to nearby stores.
• Throwaway shorts x1 (optional) – An old pair of shorts that you can get dirty during adventure activities and throw out afterwards.
• Throwaway tee x1 (optional) – An old t-shirt that you can get dirty during adventure activities and throw out afterwards.
• Jeans or trousers x1 (optional) – Chances are that you will visit a restaurant, bar or club at some point during your solo travel and men may be expected to wear jeans or trousers.
• Button-up shirt x1 (optional) – Again, if you plan on visiting fancy restaurants or clubs whilst travelling solo, men may be expected to wear a button-up shirt.
• Belt (optional)
• Hiking shoes x1 (optional) – Only take a pair of hiking shoes or boots if you plan on doing lots of trekking doing your solo travel. Otherwise, it is not worth carrying the extra weight.

Additional winter clothes

If you will be travelling during the colder winter months, add these additional clothes to your solo travel packing list for males.

• Winter Jacket x1 – The outer layer that will trap heat and protect you from wind and rain.
• Fleece x1 – A middle layer that traps heat and dries quickly.
• Tracksuit pants x1 – Comfortable pants that trap heat.
• Thermal top and pants x1 (optional) – These inner layers may be necessary if travelling in sub-freezing temperatures.
• Scarf or neck warmer x1 (optional)
• Gloves x1 (optional ) – A simple pair of woollen gloves may suffice. However, in extreme cold and wet, you may want to opt for waterproof winter gloves.

Whilst most men don’t mind roughing it, your fellow travellers won’t want to hang around with you if you stink of body odour and bad breath (and female travellers certainly won’t want to get down and dirty with you). Put together a toiletries bag with the following items.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste – Store your toothbrush inside a breathable travel case to protect it from bacteria.
• Deodorant – Men’s roll-on deodorant tends to be smaller and more travel-friendly than spray deodorant.
• Sunscreen – Wrap in a plastic zip-lock bag to prevent spillage.
• Lip balm – Protect your lips from getting chapped and sun damaged.
• Razor and shaving soap (or rechargeable electric shaver ) – Whilst a razor gives a close shave, an electric shaver is more convenient and faster for your face and body.
• Prescription medication – Make sure that you buy enough prescription medication before leaving for your solo travel. You don’t want the hassle of seeing a doctor for a prescription when travelling overseas. 
• Condoms – Take them out of the box but keep them in your toiletries bag to prevent them from being damaged.
• Mosquito repellent – Particularly important when visiting countries where malaria and mosquito-borne diseases are prominent.
• Hand sanitiser – Keep it in your day bag as a convenient way to clean your hands before meals and after visiting the bathroom.
• Tissues – Buy a small travel pack rather than a large box of tissues.
• Face masks – It is still mandatory to wear a face mask on some flights and attractions.
• Solid shampoo and conditioner (optional) – Most hostels will not provide you with shampoo or conditioner. However, motels, hotels and Airbnbs might. Save space in your luggage by buying these when you arrive at your destination.
• Body soap (optional) – Most hostels will not provide you with body wash or soap. However, motels, hotels and Airbnbs might. If you need to save space in your luggage, buy body wash when you arrive at your destination.
• Motion sickness pills (optional) – Particularly important if you suffer from travel sickness or will be travelling a lot by water or air.
• Band-Aids (optional)
• Antibiotic ointment (optional) – clean and sanitise wounds (small cuts and bites) to prevent infection.
• Q-tips (optional)

How to Stay Handsome on the Road

Philips All-in-One Style Kit

• 13 tools for trimming facial, body and head hair.
• Comes with a travel bag for convenience.
• Self-sharpening blades mean no oil needed.

Solo travellers face unique dangers that most tourists never encounter. Add these safety items to your solo travel packing list for males and keep yourself safe on the road.

• TSA-approved padlocks – Always keep your luggage and day bag locked to prevent theft. Combination locks are best because you don’t have to carry a key.
• Fake smartphone and fake cash (optional) – If you’re solo travelling through a dangerous destination, keep a fake smartphone and cash in one pocket of your fanny pack (separate from your real phone and cash). Should you be mugged or robbed, you can hand over the fakes and immediately leave the area.
• Acemining portable door lock (optional) – Allows you to lock any hotel or motel door. Only takes 10 seconds to set up and prevents intruders from being able to turn the door handle.
• ZZRUI door stopper security alarm (optional) – Jam this behind your closed door to stop intruders from breaking in. An alarm will warn you if someone is trying to open the door.

I’ve Never Had Anything Stolen From My Bags

2x Forge TSA Numeric Locks

• Stop thieves from getting into your bags or hostel locker.
• Don’t worry about carrying and losing keys.
• Just remember a 4-digit code of your choosing.

Add these odd bits and bobs to your solo travel packing list for men. Some are essential, whilst others will just make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

• Trash bag – Can also be used to store wet swimwear or rubbish.
• Quick-drying microfiber towel – Smaller and faster drying than a bath or beach towel. An essential on your male solo travel packing list.
• SIM card tool – Required to remove your smartphone SIM card and replace it with a local SIM card.
• Pen – Vital for filling out forms in a hurry, such as immigration arrival cards.
• Inflatable travel pillow (optional) – Stop your head from flopping around and get a comfortable sleep on planes, trains and buses.
• Loop earplugs and case (optional) – If you will be sharing a hostel dorm room with other snoring women and men, you should add earplugs to your female solo travel packing list.
• Eye mask and case (optional) – Again, great for blocking out the light when sleeping in hostel dorms.
• Pocket knife (optional) – Can be very handy for fixing things, picking splinters and all sorts of odd jobs. But double-check if it is allowed to be stowed in your checked baggage.
• Headlamp or torch (optional) – Can be useful when camping or digging around in your bag in a dark hostel dorm. However, it is often more convenient to use the torch on your smartphone.
• Lighter (optional) – Whilst this is mostly for smokers, offering a lighter can also be a great way for men to make friends when travelling solo.
• Trinket from home (optional) – Take a small photo or other memento from home to help you feel better when you’re homesick.

How I Sleep Like a Log on Long-haul Flights

Inflatable Travel Pillow

No more flopping head or sore neck. Sleep comfortably.

Loop Earplugs

Block out the noise of rattling plane parts, crying babies and snoring dormmates.

Contoured Eye Mask

Soft memory foam and contour mean no pressure on eyes.

Share your adventures with the world and grow your social media following with epic content. Include these photography items on your solo travel packing list for males.

• Camera – Only take a camera and lens if you want high-quality photographs. Otherwise, your smartphone’s camera should be capable of getting some decent shots and will save you a lot of hassle.
• Camera cleaning kit – Keep your lenses and mirrors clean so that you can capture clear shots.
• Camera battery and charger
• GoPro Action camera (optional) – Want to capture exciting moments during your solo trip? Take your GoPro.
• Camera bag backpack (optional) – A shoulder bag for your camera can be a nuisance when travelling solo. If you’re a photographer, consider buying a backpack with storage compartments for your camera and lenses.
• Selfie stick (optional) – Save yourself from constantly having to ask others to take photos of you. Some selfie sticks also transform into a tripod and have a remote so you can take epic landscape selfies.
• Camera tripod (optional) – Capture landscape or high-speed shots without camera shake. Also useful for taking selfies. 
• Microphone for camera/smartphone (optional) – Capture crystal-clear audio when videoing your travels on your camera or smartphone.
• Pro lens kit for smartphone (optional) – Capture epic landscapes with the wide angle lens (expands the field of view by 45%). Magnify nearby subjects with the macro lens for breath-taking close-up shots.
• Micro SD memory card (optional) – Buy a 256GB SD card or larger so that you can take lots of photos and videos without constantly changing cards.
• SD card to Lightning adapter (optional) – Transfer photos from your SD card to your iPad in seconds. Perfect if you plan on doing lots of photo editing.

Quality Content with a Smartphone

Xenvo Pro Lens Kit

3 lens combinations. Wide lens for 45% larger landscapes. Macro lens for stunning close-ups.

Movo VXR10 Microphone

Capture crystal-clear audio when videoing your travels on your smartphone.

Selfie Stick and Tripod

No more asking others to take photos. Comes with a remote for epic selfies.

What Not to Include on Your Solo Travel Packing List for Males

There are many advantages and disadvantages of travelling alone . One of the disadvantages is that you have limited luggage space.

Keep your solo travel packing list as light as possible, even if you’re a big man with lots of strength. Keeping things light makes you more manoeuvrable, reduces stress on your body and helps to minimise luggage fees.

Do not include these items on your solo travel packing list for males:

• A thick wallet – A big, chunky wallet is uncomfortable to carry in your pocket and may make you a target for theft. Replace it with a slim wallet or money clip.
• Unnecessary cards and items in your wallet – Empty your wallet of unneeded healthcare cards, rewards cards, business cards, spare keys, cash and coins.
• Snacks and food – Don’t bother taking food with you from home, as some of it may not even make it through customs at the airport. Just buy snacks once you arrive.
• Pyjamas – Question whether you need to take a pair of pyjamas. If not, sleep in a pair of underpants or shorts.
• Paper notebook – It is much more convenient to take notes on your phone, rather than carry a paper notebook which is bulky and can be damaged.
• Guidebooks – There’s no need to carry big and bulky guidebooks with you. You can always access Nomadic Yak’s destination guides online (and even save the pages for offline reading).
• Large amounts of cash – Try not to carry more than USD $200 at any one time. Carrying more than this could make you a target for theft or robbery.
• Water bottle – There are many countries around the world where you should not drink tap water as it may cause illness. Instead of filling up a water bottle, buy sealed bottles of water and recycle the bottle whenever possible. 
• Keys – Don’t take your car or home keys overseas with you. You don’t want to risk losing them. Instead, leave them with family or friends.
• Card games – There’s no need to carry a deck of cards with you. Most hostels and hotels will offer cards and games. And other travellers often carry their own.

Suitcase vs Backpack for Male Solo Travel

Solo male travellers often question whether they should take a suitcase vs backpack. Both suitcases and backpacks have advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the following factors:

• Your destination – Are the sidewalks well paved for suitcase wheels or would it be easier to carry a backpack?
• Your need for manoeuvrability – Will you need to navigate stairs, hills and hiking trails?
• The type of transport you will be travelling on – Will you be travelling frequently on planes, trains and coaches? Will you be travelling by motorcycle or scooter?
• Protecting your possessions – Do you have fragile items in your luggage that need the protection of a suitcase shell?
• How often do you need to access your possessions – Will you be staying in one place for multiple days or will you be travelling on an almost daily basis?

A suitcase is better suited to solo travellers who won’t be frequently catching transport between destinations. In other words, a suitcase is great if you plan on staying in one place for more than a few days (i.e. hotel stays).

The advantages of a suitcase are:

The Only Suitcase You’ll Ever Need to Own

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

• Extra-thick ABS hard shell protects your fragile items.
• 30% cheaper than other brands.
• 30-inch option makes it easy to fit all your luggage.

A backpack is better suited to solo travellers who will be frequently catching transport between destinations. In other words, a backpack is great if you plan on travelling every few days (i.e. backpacking, touring or adventure travel).

The advantages of a backpack are:

This Backpack Has Lasted Me 7+ Years

Osprey Farpoint 70

• 15L daypack with laptop sleeve (included) can be attached to the back of 70L backpack.
• Comfortable to carry thanks to hip belt design.
• Lots of padding for extra protection.

Packing Tips for Solo Travel

Men must pack lightly when travelling solo. Remember, a light packing list will make you more manoeuvrable, save you money on baggage fees and reduce stress on your body.

Here are my top ten tips for travel packing as a solo male:

• Buy clothes at your destination – Sometimes, it’s cheaper and easier to buy some clothing at your destination (particularly in developing regions such as South Asia, South America and Africa). This will help you save space in your luggage. Afterwards, you can ship it home, throw it out or donate it.
• Wear bulky items when flying – If you are concerned about your luggage being over the airline’s weight limit, wear the heaviest items whilst flying (e.g. sweatshirt, jacket, jeans, etc.)
• Buy travel-sized toiletries – Full-sized toiletries take up too much space. Instead, use travel-sized toiletries, which are small enough to take in carry-on (great for refreshing yourself on long flights).
• Roll your clothes – The most efficient way to pack your bag is to roll your clothes up rather than folding them. Then, stack the rolls beside one another and fill every crevice in your bag.
• Pack inside your shoes – There is valuable packing space inside your shoes. Stuff them with socks, underwear and other small items.
• Pre-pack liquids in a zip-lock bag – Airport security will only let you through if your liquids are smaller than 100ml (3.4 ounces) each and packed in a clear quart-sized zip-lock bag (about 17cm by 20cm). Instead of stressing out at the airport, prepare this in advance.
• Use packing cubes – Packing cubes are an affordable way to keep luggage organised in your bag. You can quickly reach for the cube you want and stack it back in your bag when done.
• Pack electronics in carry-on – The best way to protect your valuable electronics is to pack them in your carry-on luggage. However, be aware that you will need to pull it out at airport security.
• Keep frequently-used items at the top – Keep frequently-used items such as toiletries, a towel and flip-flops at the top of your bag for easy access.
• Don’t pack bed linen – Once upon a time, it was the norm to bring your own linen when backpacking. These days, hostels provide the linen for visitors. Just make sure you book a hostel that rates highly for cleanliness.

Related Posts

Solo Travel Packing List for Females (100 Crucial Items)

Traveling Alone as a Man: 15 Things to Expect and 5 Tips

Is It Weird For A Guy To Travel Alone?

Find more solo travel tips at nomadic yak.

Have you put together all the items on this solo travel packing list for males? 

Even though you now know what to pack for solo travel, there’s a lot more that you need to do before setting off on your trip!

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry Dale. I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

On Nomadic Yak, I’ve shared everything you need to know about male solo travel .

You’ll also find 100s of solo travel tips on how to save money, make more friends, build a social media following and much more.

Plus, you can use my solo travel destination guides to discover international sights and attractions that few other travellers get to witness.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

The Best Way To Find Unique and Great Gifts For Those you Love and Care About

WHAT TO PACK FOR A 5-DAY TRIP CHECKLIST

WhatToGetMy Instructional Article

It is almost time for your trip that you planned months ago and all that is left to do is to pack your bags. You don’t want to leave any of the essentials out but you also want to pack without going overboard by packing too much or all the wrong things. The best way to do this is to plan and either write down your own or use a printable travel packing list of what to pack for a 5-day trip checklist that will suit your needs.

Before preparing your 5 day packing list , there are a few things that you need to consider first and they are:

• Will you be traveling alone, as a couple or are you taking a family trip?
• Relaxation or an adventurous trip
• Beaches or mountains
• In the summer or winter
• Will it be In a City or the countryside?
• You should also know what sort of weather to expect while you are on your trip
• How will you be traveling, will it be a road trip or will you be flying there?
• The type of accommodation you will be staying in and what facilities are available for instance, will it be a wooden cabin buried in the mountains with nothing available, not even electricity, or will you be staying at a 5-star luxury hotel?
• You will need to know the activities you will be doing so that you can pack accordingly. Activities like sightseeing, water sports, eating at fancy restaurants, celebrating festivals or will you spend the majority of your time be lazing along the seaside then you will need to know what to pack for a 5 day trip to the beach

Source Link: https://whattogetmy.com/what-to-pack-for-a-5-day-trip-checklist/

Choosing the best Luggage for your trip.

Table of Contents

It is important to choose the right type of luggage to use for your trip as it needs to hold your belongings and keep it all safe. You will want to look for something that is made of quality materials that are tough, sturdy, and strong.

Some pointers of what to consider:

• Decide if you want a Hard Shell for durability or Soft Shell for flexibility for overhead compartments.
• Choose the right size to suit airline regulations
• Choose something lightweight with sturdy handles
• Must have tough and functional wheels
• Choose luggage with strong expandable zippers
• It is always great to have compartments for organization

Organize Your Stuff

Packing your bag neatly and keeping things organized can be a total nightmare for some people especially if you need to pack items for different activities. To make the process easier, make sure you use some packing cubes which keep your bag neat, tidy, and provide quick access to all the different things that you need during your trip.

When preparing your things to take on a vacation , make sure to pack as light as possible and only take the necessities with you by being realistic about what you really need versus what you want to take with you. The less you take, the easier your traveling experience will be.

To help you get organized, gather your luggage and everything you want to pack all in one place, say for instance pack everything you think that you will need on your bed so that you can see what you have, check all the items against your travel packing checklist and take out any extras that you don’t need.

Packing luggage for an airplane  

Clothing checklist that you would need for a 5-day trip

Packing clothing depends entirely on what sort of weather you will be expecting, for summer you will pack lightweight clothing to stay cool and in the colder weather you would pack thicker clothing to keep warm.

• 4 – 5 T-shirts
• 1 dress shirt
• A Sweater or fleece jacket
• 2 Pants and 3 shorts
• 1 – 2 Dresses or skirts
• Socks – wool socks are best for hiking
• Swimsuit or swim trunks
• Rain jacket, windbreaker or umbrella
• A good belt if you need one

Your Toiletry Bag Checklist

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
• Dental floss
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Deodorant, cologne or perfume
• Hairbrush or comb, hair ties, and bobby pins
• Hair products like hairspray or hair gel
• Face wash and/or makeup remover wipes and q-tips
• Moisturizer or Lotion
• Feminine hygiene products
• Shaving supplies
• Sunscreen and face lotion with SPF
• Lip balm with SPF
• Scissors, nail clippers, and tweezers

Health Care Items checklist

• First aid kit (bandages, gauze, adhesives, etc.)
• Prescriptions medication and script refill if needed
• Pain and fever relievers
• Cold medicines and throat lozenges
• Diarrhea/laxative medicines
• Allergy medicine
• Sleeping medicines
• Antibacterial ointment
• Multivitamins
• Sunburn relief
• Insect repellent/mosquito net/sting reliever
• Motion sickness and/ or altitude sickness medication
• Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
• Extra contacts, solution, and contact case
• Glasses and prescription sunglasses

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop or tablet
• Electronic chargers
• Voltage adaptor
• Film or memory card
• Emergency contacts
• Credit card or bank contacts
• Copies of passport, credit card
• Clothesline and detergent
• Stain Remover
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A hat or sun visor
• Scarf or bandana

Prepare and Pack your Carry-On Bag 

The next thing that you will want to do is prepare and pack your carry-on bag. For your carry-on luggage. To help you figure out how to pack a carry on bag for 5 days you can start by making a separate carry-on packing list for you to check your items against which will be items that you will need with you on your flight and any other essentials just in case your luggage is lost and for quick and easy access like:

• Travel Documents which is your Passport, visa, and ID
• Credit and ATM cards
• Your Insurance cards like your medical and travel
• Your Itinerary
• Maps or directions for the area you are going to
• A Guidebook
• Books or an e-Reader
• Headphones, preferably ones that have noise canceling
• Chargers for your devices
• A travel blanket
• A travel pillow
• Earplugs and an eye mask
• Disinfecting wipes and tissues
• Change of clothes
• Toiletries, remember to keep within the regulations of how much is allowed
• Food or snacks
• Empty water bottle
• Prescriptions
• Valuables, such as your jewelry
• Paper and a pen
• Glasses/sunglasses

Tip : It is always best to keep your belongings safe, especially your cash, bank cards, and travel documents. The easiest way is to keep them hidden and close to you is by using some sort of money belt. You may want to consider one with RFID protection to keep all your personal information safe.

Packing for a hiking trip

When packing a backpack for a 5-day hiking trip , it is best to know the area you will be hiking in. Things like the type of terrain, what type of weather to expect, and how remote is the location as this will affect the type of items that you will want to take with you.

When packing a backpack is best to put everything in its own individual bags by using packing cubes and zip lock bags which enables you to access them easily when you need them and they also help to balance your backpack out more evenly.

Items that should be part of your backpacking checklist:

• Backpack to fit all your gear that is waterproof
• Hiking boots or shoes
• A light tent
• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad or mat
• A headlamp with extra batteries
• A portable Stove and fuel
• Kitchen supplies like a cooking pot, spoon/fork, or a spork
• Plenty of food, it is best to pack items like instant backpack meals, pasta with powdered sauces, powdered potatoes, nutritional bars, and dried fruit
• Water bottles and water-treatment supplies
• Small gear repair kit
• Waterproof Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
• Sun protection: sunglasses, hat with a brim, and sunscreen
• First aid: including foot care and insect repellent
• Fire: matches, lighter, tinder, and/or stove
• A light emergency Shelter: carried at all times
• Toilet paper and a bag to put the used paper in when you’re done
• Two sets of clothing, you will be wearing a set of hiking clothes and pack one extra to hike in and one set to sleep in.
• Enough underwear for your trip
• 4 pairs of thick hiking socks
• Waterproof gloves
• Waterproof ski jacket
• Toiletries, all you need is toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a small pack of facial wipes
• A Camera for the amazing things that you may see

Packing for a road trip

When going on a road trip you can take a lot more things with you and you may need to depending on the size of your family, the location you are going to, and the type of accommodation you will be staying at.

When making a 5 day vacation packing list for a road trip, you need to have a few different checklists to make sure that your trip will be a success. You will need to have a checklist for your car itself, one for the items that you may need inside the vehicle, and then of course what to pack to take with you a checklist.

Your Vehicle Checklist

• Your vehicle is up to date with its services
• License and registration
• Your vehicle’s manual
• A copy of your car insurance policy and the relevant contact numbers
• Spare tire, spanner, and jack are in good condition
• A working fire extinguisher
• Battery Booster Cables,
• Two Light Sticks,
• Reflective Vest,
• Emergency Rain Poncho,
• Warning triangle,
• Tire Pressure Gauge,
• Window Breaker etc.

Inside Your Vehicle Checklist

• Paper maps for the times there is no cell service
• A notebook, pen, and pencil
• Spare money for road tolls
• First aid kit with basic supplies such as band-aids, bandages, antiseptic, and safety pins
• Large Water Bottles
• Toilet paper
• Bluetooth/Wireless hands-free kit for your mobile phone
• USB charger
• A great playlist
• A book or e-Reader
• Travel games to keep the kids entertained
• Snacks and refreshments

What to pack for a 5-day trip checklist.

First of all the best bags to use for a road trip are duffel bags as they are a lot easier to stack and squeeze into any car packing arrangement that you need. If you plan on stopping somewhere overnight, then pack a separate smaller bag with just your sleepover essentials and the clothes you will need for the next day so it is easy to grab and go.

While on a road trip it is best to wear clothes that are loose and breathable, and that you feel comfortable being seen in at stops. If you wear dark colors, it will be easier to hide dirt, stains, and wrinkles much better.

Packing for a road trip is exactly the same as packing as if you were flying on a plane, except with your toiletries, you will not have any restrictions on how much liquids and gels you are allowed to pack. Although you have the space to pack much more, it is not a good idea to pack too much extra because you probably will not wear the extra clothes but you will be giving yourself extra laundry to do when you come back home.

Coming up with a what to pack for a 5-day trip checklist depends entirely on where you planning on going to and with how many people there will be with you, what type of accommodation you will have, what sort of weather do you expect to have and what type of activities do you intend on doing. Always remember to double-check your list and try to not rush the process or you might forget something vital.

• What to pack for a 3 week trip checklist
• What to pack for a 7 day trip
• Sailing vacations for couples

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Want to pack light but don't know where to start? Let's find the perfect size bag using this quiz !

Her Packing List

Packing Lists

Ultimate female packing list for a minimalist business trip.

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

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

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

My Lightbulb Moment

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

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

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

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

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

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

What I Pack Now

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

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

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

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

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

My Packing List for a Minimalist Business Trip:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Gear we use.

Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Scarves

Splice Reversible Jaisalmer Tunic

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Tom Bihn 3D Organizer Cube

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Travel resources, hpl learnables.

H PL Packing Method – Learn to pack your lightest bag ever in this revolutionary packing course by HPL founder, Brooke.

Book Your Trip

Viator – Enhance your trip experience by booking from thousands of tours across the globe.

Booking.com – Search for hotels, hostels, and apartments using this one resource. Use it for flights, car rentals, and airport taxis as well.

Trusted Housesitters – Save money on travel accommodation by becoming a housesitter. Housesitters often have extra duties, like caring for pets and gardens.

Reader Interactions

August 2, 2017 at 6:50 pm

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

August 10, 2017 at 12:07 pm

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

April 21, 2019 at 1:23 am

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

January 7, 2020 at 7:26 pm

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

June 6, 2021 at 6:02 pm

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

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