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Travel Checklist

Before packing.

  • 3.4 ounces or less per container
  • 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
  • 1 bag per passenger
  •   Review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage.
  • If purchasing a baggage lock, be sure to look for those that are TSA recognized.
  • Tape a card with your name and contact information on your electronics.

When Packing

  • Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
  • Firearms are only allowed in checked baggage and must be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared to your airline.
  • All fireworks contain explosive materials and are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.
  • Do not pack items such as box cutters, utility knives, and razors in carry-on luggage. Razor blades intended for shaving that are enclosed in a safety cartridge in which the blade cannot be removed are permitted.
  • Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for screening accessibility.
  • Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in the front pocket of your carry-on for accessibility.
  • If traveling with a pet, be sure to bring a leash so carriers can be properly screened.

Before Leaving for the Airport

  • Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport early.
  • Wear easily removable shoes.
  • Passengers with a disability or medical condition may call ahead to the TSA Cares toll free helpline at (855) 787-2227 .

Before Entering the Checkpoint

  • Eligible passengers look for the TSA PreCheck® lane for expedited screening at participating airports.
  • Have your  ID and boarding pass out for inspection.

In Standard Screening Lane

  • Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
  • Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
  • Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.
  • Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.)
  • Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

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travel items check list camera shoes hat sunglasses and map are displayed on a table

The Ultimate Packing List

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Christine Sarkis

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Ashley Rossi

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

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

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

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

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

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

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

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

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

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

Clothes to Pack

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

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

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

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

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

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

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

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

Close up of person reading the SmarterTravel Ultimate Packing List on their phone while packing a suitcase

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

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

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

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

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

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

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

Scrubba Untouched Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

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

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

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

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

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

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

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

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

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

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

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

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

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

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

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

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

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

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

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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How to Pack for Domestic Adventure Travel: Your Checklist

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packing travel backpack

Whether you’re road-tripping from coast to coast, experimenting with van life, or flying to a new U.S. region for an adventure, here’s a basic checklist before you go.

Once you’ve hit the pavement or you’re airborne, you can finally celebrate. The adventure officially begins! But the steps leading up to departure can feel like a marathon with bookings to confirm, routes to study, and nailing your packing list.

You’ll want to plan enough for your comfort level but leave space for spontaneity. The goal is to be comfortable and safe without bringing everything but the kitchen sink (believe me, you won’t use it all).

To help you get started, we created a travel packing checklist for domestic adventures in great detail below. If you’re interested in preparing for an overseas trip, check out our GearJunkie guide and checklist for international travel .

At print, domestic and international destinations continue to grapple with the pandemic. Be sure to check with each town and county where you plan to visit for up-to-date guidelines, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and any airlines you might book with. Pack a face mask, because regulations and needs differ from place to place.

Domestic Adventure Travel: Your Checklist

Over the past decade, I’ve traveled all over the world as an adventure writer and outdoor industry journalist. Before that, I lived and worked abroad. I also road-tripped all over Colorado and the Southwest throughout my childhood. I tell ya, packing for trips doesn’t get easier!

But like any routine, you get more efficient. And the evolution of travel accessories — like sleek, portable power banks, packable synthetic clothes, and snazzy luggage options — means going on trips has never been more comfortable.

Before I pack for any voyage, whether it’s an overnighter or multiple weeks, I write down a specific list of what I need. Even the most experienced vagabonds can forget to pack important items.

How to Pack: Timeline

Depending on how complicated or novel the trip is, I make a pack list one to 16 weeks prior. That way, I have enough time to pick up or order any new gear or apparel I might need. Some equipment can be hard to find, and the buffer can help.

I do a mock pack one to 2 weeks before I leave. You want to make sure everything you need fits in your luggage, doesn’t exceed a comfortable carrying weight, or doesn’t beyond airline luggage restrictions.

For road trips, try to pack everything in your rig one to 2 days before you head out. The process can be like a Rubik’s Cube, and you’d rather not postpone departure. (This has happened to me more than once.)

packing for domestic travel - checklist

Travel Documents & Money

The travel documents you need nationwide aren’t as robust as when you leave the country. That said, it’s important to carry the basics in hand in case there’s a hiccup with a reservation or, worst-case scenario, a medical emergency. Having easy access to these documents can make your trip less stressful.

Regardless of the destination, always travel with:

  • Personal ID
  • Confirmation codes (booked trains, buses, flights, hotels, campsites, tours, etc.)
  • Immunization records
  • List of allergies and blood type
  • Health insurance card
  • Two forms of money (cash, credit card, debit card, or checkbook)

If you’ve misplaced your ID or it’s expired, you can travel with your passport — but definitely don’t lose it!

Make sure your debit card has an adequate amount, your credit card has ample available credit, and you know the caps of both. Some card issuers still require a travel notification; to avoid fraud freezes on your card, let them know that you’re traveling.

If you’re road tripping with a rig or motorcycle, don’t forget your registration and proof of insurance.

For security, store these documents in a safe, out-of-sight, locked place.

Electronics & Chargers

Who doesn’t travel with electronics these days? With smartphones that provide access to QR codes, music, a camera, and email, most folks carry one. Some travelers also bring a laptop, digital camera, and drone.

Battery Packs

jackery giant+

To keep your electronics juiced up, it’s beneficial to bring a portable battery pack. A few options include the rugged Dark Energy Poseidon ($120), Brunton Torpedo ($36) for car travel, or Goal Zero Flip 20 ($30).

If you’re willing to go a bit heavier, I carry the Jackery Giant+ , which has enough power to charge my phone like six times. I don’t need to worry about the battery bank losing energy due to low temperatures in the backcountry or while camping, and there’s enough to share with travel partners.

Charging Ports & Generators

kokovolta usb c charger block

If you need to recharge larger devices, don’t forget any necessary charging stations or cables. You can bring along a multi-charging port or dual-port for the car to speed up the process.

Outlets are usually available at hotels, libraries, restaurants, and co-working or coffee spaces. If you have a travel trailer with the capabilities, you can plug into shore power and plan your campsites around when you need to refill your batteries. You can also look into generators, like the EcoFlow Delta , and solar charging stations.

Be aware, outlets can be limited in airports.

Bags & Pouches

sealline e-case

I prefer to carry my electronic accessories in a pliable waterproof bag or pouch, which helps protect them from any splashes or spills and makes them easy to find. The SealLine E-Case and Blocker Zip Sack are two of my favorites.

Travel Apps & Maps

Try to download any new apps before you hit the road, because the process can drain your device’s power and require a strong Wi-Fi connection. Some apps require you to set up an account or offer premium subscriptions for access to more resources.

Weather & Conditions

It’s advantageous to stay up to date on the weather and various conditions, like the size of the ocean waves or snowfall. A few app options include the Weather Underground App , MyRadar , Magicseaweed , and OpenSnow .

Topography & Land Use

Other apps let you study the topography and land ownership boundaries, like Gaia GPS , onX Backcountry , onX Hunt , CalTopo , and Fatmap . To learn the mountains or stars, use Night Sky and PeakFinder .

Sites and apps like Strava , Trail Run Project , MTB Project , and Hiking Project show crowd-sourced routes created by other recreationists.

To find various campsites, check out Recreation.gov , The Dyrt , and Campendium .

Personal Hygiene Items

If you’ve never used a toiletry bag, now’s the time. Having one when you travel keeps all your items in one place and is easy to transport around your hotel room or to a public shower. L.L.Bean makes one that hangs with nearly five stars and something like 1,600 reviews.

ll bean personal organizer toiletry bag

I’ll just start by confirming baby wipes are simply the answer to most of your on-the-road hygienic woes. Pick up a streamlined pack to use on grimy hands, face, stinky armpits, sensitive areas — yes, anywhere — and you’ll be so much more comfortable when you don’t have access to a shower. In a pinch, you can use them to wipe up dirt after a trail outing.

If a pandemic occurs or you’re visiting a mountain town with limited resources, please be sensitive to the available quantities on the shelf. People with babies get first priority.

General Hygienics to Consider:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
  • Medications
  • Lotion (hand, body, face)
  • Bug repellent
  • Anti-itch cream
  • First-aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Electrolytes like NUUN tablets

A word of caution : Whether you’re flying or driving, pack liquids in a separate bag or cosmetic case. That way, if they explode — which can happen when you go up in altitude — the rest of your luggage doesn’t get a special surprise.

A part of maintaining personal health is staying hydrated. Bring a reusable water bottle to save money and the planet.

Read about more environmentally friendly travel gear in our guide Single-Use Plastic Alternatives: Eco-Friendly Travel Essentials .

Contacts & Eye Glasses

As someone with sensitive eyes who wears contacts and plays outside, it’s honestly been a hurdle to keep my eyes clean. Whether you wear monthlies or dailies, don’t forget your kit, including sanitizing hand wipes, eyeglasses, eye drops, disinfecting solution, and a contact lens case.

Make sure you have enough contact lenses to cover the duration of your trip. Pack at least one extra set, because they can occasionally be defective, fall out, or get damaged.

Active Skin Repair Spray

active skin repair spray

For every trip, I’ve started bringing Active Skin Repair Spray . It doesn’t sting, is compact, and is utilitarian. I’m a walking bug magnet, so I use it on mosquito bites, rashes, sunburn, zits, chafing, minor cuts and scrapes — you name it.

For severe ailments, seek medical advice.

TSA Requirements

If you’re traveling by plane, TSA requires that all of your liquids fit in a quart-size bag and are no larger than 3.4 ounces each. That includes aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes.

One workaround is to pack sunscreen sticks like the ones made by Joshua Tree and Protekt, which also has a tinted option — but make sure you don’t get it on your shirt collar because it doesn’t come out.

A comfortable neck pillow is a game-changer for flights or sitting passenger on road trips. That person dreaming and drooling? It could be you. And a travel blanket or fleece jacket and warm socks can be cozy to cover up with if the air conditioner is blasting on high.

It’s super nice to have a set of earplugs, whether you’re on an airplane or need to pull over at a rest stop to get some Z’s. Some people use eyeshades to block light, too. It’s also easy enough to bring noncaffeinated tea packets to help you relax.

When you wake up, it’s refreshing to have water, a toothbrush and toothpaste, chapstick, face mist, a hair comb or brush, deodorant, and eye drops on hand. Also, factor in jet lag and time changes into your itinerary, including how you might feel the first day or two in a new destination or back home.

Ultimately, a sleep routine is personal. If you need to bring your Tempur-Pedic pillow from home, we won’t judge.

Backpack(s)

Electronics.

If you bring a laptop, use a pack with an integrated, well-cushioned laptop sleeve for protection. That’s pretty key for carry-ons and road trips alike — cargo can get jostled around. If you’re carrying expensive electronics, look for a pack that’s waterproof and includes dividers as well as a hip belt and chest strap.

Learn about our favorite options in The Best Camera Backpacks .

Around Town

sea to summit ultra-sil travel day pack

No matter how small my suitcase is, I always bring the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack . It’s compact, lightweight, and handy for grocery store runs, beach or picnic outings, and cruising around town. The seams and zipper aren’t waterproof, but the material is, so it provides some protection for my phone, journal, and book.

If you’re planning to get out on trails while you travel, it’s comfortable to wear a sport-specific pack. I like one with a cushioned back panel for support and comfort plus a hip belt. I also opt for packs with a hydration sleeve and reservoir compatibility, so I remember to drink water as I go.

If your trip is based on backpacking, you might be able to use your backpacking pack as your carry-on, depending on the pack size and space limitations of the airline.

Dry bags with backpack straps can be helpful for keeping wet stuff separate from the rest of your river gear and traveling with an open truck bed on a road trip.

Read more about GearJunkie’s favorite packs in The Best Travel Backpacks , The Best Backpacking Backpacks , and The Best Dry Bags .

Proper Footwear

Aim to pack at least two pairs of footwear for a trip. These days, a lot of hybrid footwear exists that looks good on trail and in town.

sea to summit travelling light shoe bag

If you need to pack your shoes in luggage, grab a separate bag to keep your apparel clean and odor-free like the Sea to Summit Travelling Light Shoe Bag .

Spring, Summer, Fall

For three seasons a year, I bring a closed-toe pair of shoes with full protection, breathability, and support for long walks.  A pair of trail running shoes usually works for hiking, camp, and exploring around town.

Then, I bring an open-toe, super breathable pair of sandals that are easy to slip on and off. I prioritize comfort for both.

For cold-weather trips, I bring an athletic pair of waterproof boots and an all-around cozy winter boot that’s quick to pull on and off. If the trip revolves around skiing and snowboarding, I definitely bring my sport-specific boots plus a portable boot dryer.

Sport-Specific

If you’re planning on rock climbing, surfing, mountain biking, or another specific sport, make sure you bring that type of shoe. If you’re learning the sport, contact the guide or outfitter you intend to work with to see if they have rentals.

Read more about supportive footwear options in our GearJunkie guides: The Best Hiking Shoes , The Best Trail Running Shoes , The Best Hiking Boots for Women , and The Best Hiking Boots .

Climate & Weather-Specific Clothing

Research your destination to learn what the weather is like during the season you’ll be there. The week of your trip, check the weather forecast.

If it’s a long trip, consider what the weather will be when you arrive home, too. The last thing you want is to end up in a downpour without a rain jacket and pants (that’s happened to me) or without a down coat in a blizzard (also happened).

Synthetic apparel is a solid option because it’s comfortable across activities. Some designs are made to combat odors and block harmful UV radiation from the sun. Other apparel is built specifically for bug protection.

You might need a rain jacket , down jacket , and fleece . Bring a variety of comfortable socks for everyday use, recreation, and warming up at night.

Don’t forget to pack enough underwear, especially if you won’t have time or resources to do laundry, as well as a hat and sunglasses.

To brainstorm travel apparel options, check out our guide The Best Men’s Travel Pants .

travel gear

Swimsuit & Quick-Dry Towel

If you plan to swim, hot tub, or hike up to natural hot springs, don’t forget your bathing suit. Well, some of those places are fine with nudity, but ya never know. After you relish the water, don’t forget your bathing suit. (Happened to me. Don’t worry — I hiked back to get it.)

For high-action water sports, bring a suit that doesn’t easily get pulled off. Sun shirts and cover-ups are protective for blocking the sun between dips. For the beach, consider a rash guard. For women, read about more product options in Best Swimsuits for Active Women .

Post water play, it’s favorable to have a quick-dry towel on hand, which comes in various sizes. Some include carry pouches, but be sure to hang dry the towel to prevent odors. Rinse your bathing suit and hang that to dry, too.

Creative Outlets

Before Instagram existed, people would do things like draw in sketchbooks or read books when they travel. We’re still for it.

Here are some creative outlets you can enjoy in the place you visit or while taking time away from your regular routine — including a digital cleanse:

  • Writing poetry
  • Reading books
  • Digital photography
  • Jewelry making
  • Letter writing
  • Crochet or knitting

Again, if you’re interested in preparing for an overseas trip, check out our GearJunkie guide and checklist for international travel .

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We’ve tested the best wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, and comfortable men’s travel pants of the year. Pack your bags and get ready for adventure. Read more…

domestic travel packing list

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Where Are Those Morgans

The Ultimate Travel Packing List: Vacation & Long Term

By: Author Mark and Kristen Morgan

Posted on Published: April 21, 2020  - Last updated: December 4, 2023

Categories Travel Packing Blog

The Ultimate Travel Packing List: Vacation & Long Term

You’ve meticulously planned your trip , perfected an amazing travel route and booked your flights. But at the final hurdle you find yourself utterly flummoxed: How are you going to create the perfect travel packing list?!

We’ve packed a few backpacks in our time and we’re here to share our best practices with you. Packing for any type of trip can feel like a daunting task but it can be very simple when broken down into categories.

Try not to think about everything you need to take in one enormous explosion of shoes and jackets.

Take one step at a time. Be logical about your approach and ask yourself what you can’t live without. Always remember that other countries sell clothes too.

Let’s begin with travel packing basics!

Pre-Trip Packing List Considerations for Long Term Travel

Any long term travel packing list is going to depend on a number of variables. Here are some of the most important considerations to account for before you set off.

  • Itinerary – Where in the world are you going? 
  • Weather – What is the typical climate for those places? Do you expect predominantly hot weather?
  • Outdoor Activities – Will you be hiking, mountain climbing, skiing or taking it easy on your trip?
  • Type of Traveler – Do you prefer to dress up more or dress down more?
  • Specialized Gear – Do you need ski’s or climbing gear? Pro photographers will need extra equipment.

This guide covers a general approach to packing for long term travel.

The following is a list of what we included in our backpacks when we traveled to Europe, Asia, South America and North America in various weather conditions throughout all seasons.

We hike a lot and we prefer to dress down / be comfortable.

Road Trip Packing : If you’re packing specifically for an epic road trip adventure, head over to our Road Trip Packing guide which is targeted at driving, camping and outdoor gear.

Important Documents For Your Travel Packing List

Make your trip a breeze by planning ahead and being an admin warrior!

We recommend a cloud base storage system to upload all of your important documents. We use icloud on our iphones, but Amazon Drive is another option. Plus, back everything up to a hard drive.

Be sure to carry at least two hard copies of your passport, vaccine records and drivers license. Put these hard copies in a different location to your money and original documents. It always pays to have extra passport photos when applying for visas on the road. This way you don’t have to track down a photo booth!

Lastly, prepare a pre-trip itinerary and leave this with family/friends at home along with copies of your important documents. Hopefully, they will never have to use them, but at least you will be covering all your bases.

  • Passport (at least 2 hard copies)
  • Visas Required for Trip
  • Return Tickets / Onward Travel Proof
  • Accommodation Confirmations
  • Driver’s License
  • Vaccine Paperwork (some countries require it)
  • Credit Cards / Debit Cards
  • Copies of all important documents (on phone + in some sort of cloud storage)
  • Itinerary (give to friends and family so they have an idea of where you will be)
  • Several copies of Passport Photos for Visas (at least 8)
  • Travel Insurance (and copies of your policy)

Choosing The Perfect Travel Backpack

We highly recommend you travel with a backpack for a long term trip. Backpacks are much easier to manage than suitcases when you’re constantly on the move.

Imagine yourself climbing up stairs to hotel rooms and walking on unpaved roads with suitcases every day for months?

We love our Samsonite hard shell rolling suitcase for traveling between the UK and US on family visits, but we wouldn’t dream of traveling for a year with it.

Check out our Osprey Farpoint 40 L post to read about the importance of selecting the correct backpack. It’s going to be stuck to your back for a long time, so take your time and research to find the right backpack for you.

After you choose a main travel backpack, keep the momentum and pick up a great day pack as well. We use Osprey day packs as well because they hold true to the test of time and durability.

Keep in mind you will need more space for traveling to certain areas than others.

For instance, if you plan a 3 month South America adventure including hiking the W Trek in Patagonia, you might want to carry a tent, sleeping bags and food with you.

You can’t fit that into a 40L backpack. Trust us, we know!

On the other hand, if you’re just cruising around South East Asia, 40L is more than enough space for what you will need.

  • Men’s Backpack – Osprey Farpoint 40
  • Women’s Backpack – Osprey Far p oint (or Fairview) 40
  • Day Pack – Osprey Daylite Plus
  • Compact Day Pack – Osprey Ultralite Stuff Pack
  • Dry Bag (perfect for snorkeling)

Travel Accessories Key To Every Packing List

The longer you travel, the more you realize how important the simplest accessory has become to you. Below is a list of items we always carry.

We can tell you that Fort Knox would have to open its doors wide for us to trade any of these in!

Packing cubes will 100% change the way you travel! We NEVER go anywhere without them. They will save you so much space and make it incredibly easy to find that one specific item you are looking for!

A  travel clothesline makes it a breeze for us to do laundry on the road. We wash clothes in the sink and leave them to dry while we explore a new place for the rest of the day.

Typically overlooked, we promise a mesh laundry bag will be a lifesaver by separating your clean clothes from the dirty ones!

If it seems like we are really pushing the laundry aspect in this section, it is intentional! Laundry on the road can be a pain in the butt. Stay organized and have options to do your own because the costs can really add up.

  • Microfiber Towel Single / 3 Set
  • Travel Umbrella
  • TSA Approved Locks
  • Packing Cubes – Osprey 3 Set  /  Bagail 6 Set
  • Alarmed Door Stop
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Mesh Laundry Bags With Zippers
  • T ravel Clothes Lin e
  • Blow Up Travel Pillow with Ear Plugs + Mask
  • Lifestraw Personal Water Filter

Women’s Clothing

Everyone has their own style and preferences for how they like to dress. However, the key here is to pack light for a long term trip.

Think about the essentials as you are packing. Make sure every article of clothing will be used. If you have doubts, don’t pack it. Aim to be a minimalist .

Remember, you will be carrying all of this gear yourself. A good rule of thumb here is to pack what you think you need and then cut that number in half!

Pack multi-functional items which can be adapted to work for a variety of uses. Seriously, if you have something in your bag taking up valuable room that you know you will only wear once at a very specific time, take it out! Everything needs to serve more than one purpose. Dress it up and dress it down.

We also want to stress the quality of your items. If you are on a budget, it is tempting to buy cheap gear, but this can really hurt you down the line when that gear doesn’t hold up. Buy good quality items so you have one less thing to worry about on your trip!

Customize Your Style

As for our style, we tend to have more athletic gear because we love hiking. However, we do always have one nice shirt/pant each for nice occasions when we may need to dress up.

For the hiking boots, consider if these will be worth the weight. We never brought our hiking boots to Europe or Asia while they were essential in South America and America. Keep this in mind before you add the extra weight!

  • 2 Sundresses (1 long, 1 midi)
  • 3 Tank Tops
  • 1 Dressy Off The Shoulder Top
  • 2 Athletic Tank Tops (Quick Dry)
  • 1 Athletic T-Shirt (Quick Dry)
  • 1 Long Sleeve Base Layer  
  • 4 Shorts (2 Jean, 1 Cotton , 1 Athletic)
  • 1 Pair of Leggings and/or Jeggings (perfect for long journeys)
  • 2 Long Pants (buy one in Asia)
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Lightweight Rain Jacket
  • 9 Pairs Underwear (enough for over 1 week)
  • 9 Pairs Socks (enough for over 1 week)
  • 2 Sports Bra + 2 Regular Bras (Bralettes are perfect for travel)
  • 1 Set of Sleepwear
  • 1 Bikini and 1 Full Piece Swimsuit 
  • Sarong/Cover-Up or Lightweight Travel Scarf
  • Comfortable Sneakers
  • Hiking Shoes
  • 1 Pair Flats
  • Cheap Flip Flops (for showers/etc.)
  • 1 Pair Sandals
  • 1 Hat (Sport Hat and/or Havana Hat )

Women’s Travel Toiletries

This is where it can be really easy to over pack non-essential items. For the most part, you will be able to pick up anything you need as you travel.

However, if there are a few things you simply can’t function without, make sure you have those items packed. The worst thing is when you don’t have access to a product that works well for you.

For example, Kristen prefers one specific type of face wash so she always brings a few travel sized bottles just in case as a backup.

Moving us on to our next point that the best way to store liquids for long term travel packing is in TSA approved containers. We just fill these bad boys up while we are on the road! Another option is to bring solid soaps and/or lotions like the ones below.

We have also included makeup on our list but this really depends on the person. Kristen has found she barely wears makeup when we travel so it ends up just taking up space. Tailor the list below to your specific needs!

  • Electric Toothbrush
  • Dental Floss
  • Covers for Toothbrush
  • Tangle Teezer
  • Q-Tips with Travel Case
  • Chapstick/Lip Balm
  • Hair Gel/Mousse
  • TSA Approved Bottles for Liquids
  • Razors (sometimes hard to find)
  • Extra Hair Ties
  • Keratin Hair Product 
  • Contacts/Glasses if needed
  • Solid Lotion Stick
  • Nail Clippers
  • Cuticle Trimmers
  • Eye Lash Curler
  • Eye Make-Up Remover
  • Small Mirror
  • Few Feminine Products (can be purchased on the road, but always have some on hand)

Men’s Clothing

The same rules apply here are we discussed in the women’s clothing section:

Only pack essentials , make sure every single article of clothing will be used and is multi-functional . If you have doubts, don’t pack it. Aim to be a minimalist .

Consider Where In The World You Traveling

For instance we never brought our hiking shoes to Europe or Asia but they were essential in South America and America. Tank tops are more suitable for Asia, whereas t-shirts and polo’s are suitable for Europe. Similarly, it’s worth considering leaving jeans out entirely in Asia.

You don’t need deadweight anchoring you down.

  • 2 Tank Tops
  • 1 Quick Dry Tank Top
  • 1 Long Sleeve Thermal Base Layer  
  • 5 Shorts (2 jean, 1 cargo ,2 athletic)
  • 1 Athletic T-Shirt ( Quick Dry )
  • 3 Long Pants (only 1 pair jeans)
  • 1 Middle Fleece Layer  
  • 9 Pairs  Merino Wool Underwear (enough for over 1 week)
  • 2 Bathing Suits
  • 1 Baseball Hat
  • 1 Set of cheap Flip Flops

Men’s Travel Toiletries

Life is usually a little easier for men in the toiletries department!

Typically, you will be able to find most men’s toiletry items on the road. We always just buy what we need when we run out of something.

However, the best piece of advice we can give is to use TSA approved containers to store any liquids you bring with you. This will save you so much time and hassle at the airport!

Since we travel as a couple, we only bring one set of tweezers, nail clippers, etc. so if there is more than one person in your group, split up the toiletries to spread the weight and space in your backpacks.

  • Beard and Hair Trimmer
  • Electric Toothbrush with Toothbrush Cover
  • Toothpaste 
  • Travel Toiletry Case
  • Hair Styling Clay
  • Scissors (for cutting hair)

Sports & Active Travel Gear

Our favorite travel packing list section and the one we struggle the most to pack. We typically bring a lot of athletic gear on our trips because we try to stay as active as possible.

We wear athletic clothes for walking the big miles around a new city, we work out a lot and we always hike the best trails in new places.

What is the benefit to replacing some of my trendy clothes for sportswear?

Athletic clothing is lightweight, durable, easy to pack, practical and most importantly – comfortable. We wouldn’t travel without packing at least a few items of athletic gear per body part!

Two of Mark’s top recommendations for your long term packing list are:

  • Cambridge Audio Melomania True Wireless Earphones – incredible sound quality and never fall out (even during HIIT workouts).
  • Flipbelt Running Belt – easily stores a smartphone, keys, money and you can barely notice it. Doubles as a fanny pack/bum bag at airports or dodgy situations!
  • Wireless Headphones
  • Flipbelt Sports Belt
  • Running Shoes
  • Garmin Venu Fitness Watch
  • Resistance Bands (for substituting weights)
  • Women’s Sports Bra

Photography & Videography List For Travel Packing

We work on the road so this list might be a bit more extensive than your needs. However, when we first left to travel, we just had one laptop and 2 old iphones. Hard to believe that was it!

We quickly fell in love with photography and videography which has led to a massive increase in our electronics gear. With packing for a long term trip, there isn’t really room for souvenirs. Our solution to keeping these wonderful memories is to document as much as we can!

We cannot recommend the Sony Alpha Mirrorless camera series enough. The Sony a6000 was our first baby and you can read about us purchasing it in Japan here . For more advanced photographers, see our recommendations below.

We have also learned the more gear you have, the more spare batteries and chargers you will need. No matter your level of electronics, make sure to have all the extras.

  • Camera & Lens Combo 1 – Sony Alpha A7R IV / Sony FE 24-70 GM
  • Camera & Lens Combo 2 –  Sony Alpha A6000  / Sigma 16mm Prime Lens
  • DJI Mavic 2 Pro
  • Go Pro 8 Black  and accessories
  • Instamax Mini 9
  • Camera Strap
  • Camera/Hiking Backpack
  • Travel Tripod
  • Cleaning Kit
  • Camera Battery Charger with Extra Batteries for Sony Series
  • Wireless Remote Shutter for Camera
  • Spare 128GB Memory Cards for Sony Series 
  • Spare Go Pro Memory Cards
  • Memory Card Holder

Electronics List To Pack For Travel

Now we’re getting to the fun stuff.

Our go to laptop is the Macbook Pro . This beautiful system is perfect for all of our photography, videography and website needs. 

Your long term travel will most likely consist of long plane, train, boat, bus and/or car rides at some point. We recommend the Apple Ipad Mini so you can download any shows or books for the long journeys that lay ahead of you. You can even buy guidebooks (check out our section below) to carry along with you!

One item we couldn’t live without is the electronics organizer . This sleek understated lifesaver keeps all of our electronics cords/batteries/memory cards in one easy to find place.

  • Macbook Pro  13″ 8 GB Memory 256 GB SSD
  • iPad Mini 5
  • Electronics Organizer
  • External Hard Drive
  • External Hard Drive Carrying Case
  • International Plug Adapter
  • Noise Cancelling Headphones 
  • Portable Charger
  • Small Portable Speaker
  • iLuv Splitter
  • Apple Magic Mouse

Cold Weather Gear

If you’re heading off into a Scandinavian Winter, you will of course need to pack accordingly. For general travel, you will be surprised how often you find yourself cold even in the places you don’t expect. We needed ours at US National Parks in Fall.

Cold weather gear can be bulky, which makes it unpractical. The best way to combat this is to pack multiple lighter and smaller layers. When you have several layers, they can function in place of a huge winter jacket.

Our go to layers which work for both upper and lower body are:

  • Base Layer – be sure to have an extremely breathable fabric which also helps to hold in the heat on your body. Under Armour fabrics work wonders – check out our recommendations below.
  • Mid Layer –  The middle layer is important as it will provide extra insulation but it should also have some breathability. Fleece for colder climates and moisture wicking for warmer climates.
  • Outer Layer – This  layer has to be water and wind resistant/proof to keep you warm and dry. You also want this to be breathable so you don’t overheat.

If you follow the simple layering rule, you will be able to stay both warm and dry.

  • North Face Insulated Pants
  • Outer Layer for Upper Body
  • Mid Layer for Upper Body
  • Base Layer for Upper Body
  • Mid Layer for Lower Body
  • Thick Insulated Leggings
  • Base Layer for Lower Body
  • Winter Boots
  • Women’s Winter Hat

Camping List To Pack For Domestic Travel

This list will be very different depending on your trip. When we road tripped across America for several months, you bet we had every item on this list. However, when we camped all throughout South America, we only had room for a few smaller items. 

If you have your own mode of transportation, we hgh recommend the Yeti Cooler. This cooler kept our food fresh for days and really allowed us to keep our costs down while road tripping. 

We also recommend quality sleeping bags . Even if you are on a tight budget, do not skimp on the sleeping bags. Look for quality brands and/or materials. Be sure to also have an idea of any temperatures you will encounter, especially at night. 

  • Camping Tent
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Cooking Stove
  • Camping Dining Set
  • Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler
  • Biodegradable Soap
  • Portable Camping Chair
  • Double/Single Hammock
  • ComfortSmart Cot
  • 24oz Kettle with Cups
  • Smith & Wesson Knife
  • Cast Iron Skillet

Personal Health & First Aid

Hopefully you will never have to use any of these items, but they are always good to have on hand.

The easiest way to tackle a first aid kit is to buy the one listed below and take out what you don’t need. We then just added other items from the list to create the perfect ’emergency kit.’

  • First Aid Kit
  • Mosquito Repellant
  • Reef Safe Sunscreen
  • Travel Size Hand Sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper / Kleenex
  • Diarrhea and Laxative Medications
  • Allergy Medications
  • Tick Remover
  • Any Prescriptions (with scripts if necessary)

Travel Guidebooks

It isn’t practical to carry around guidebooks for a long term trip. However, you certainly can prepare before your trip.

We highly recommend lonely planet guide books for an in-depth discovery about your bucket list places. We download guide books to our ipad so we have access to the information on the go.

Pro-Tip : Lonely planet provide an “On a Shoestring” series which serves those travelers on a budget.

List of Things to Avoid When Packing for Long Term Travel

  • Expensive Jewelry . Don’t travel with your diamonds. You also will be on the move a lot which increases the chance of losing something. Nothing ruins your trip quicker when something valuable is lost or stolen. We never travel with our wedding rings or other special jewelry. 
  • Hair Dryer . Most hostels and hotels will have one if you need it so save the room in your bag! We never ended up using one on the road anyway.
  • Keep the Clothing Colors Modest . You don’t want to draw extra attention to yourself as a tourist by wearing those bright pink sneakers. Keep it chilled and neutral. 
  • Don’t Over Pack . Make sure to pack your basics. Take clothes you can re-wear and use with different items. Keep in mind you can always pick up something if you forgot it.

Tips for Your Travel Packing List

  • Bring more than 1 weeks worth of socks and underwear. These items take up a little space and you will be able to go longer without having to do laundry. 
  • Always, always, always have hand sanitizer and toilet paper with you . It will save you in more ways that you can imagine. 
  • Use packing cubes . We never travel without them!
  • Roll your clothes . It truly saves space and helps to minimize wrinkles.
  • Take half of what you need . Remember you can always buy items on the road.
  • Avoid cotton . While this material feels great against your skin, it does not dry easily. Look for merino wool and mixed fabric blends to wick the moisture away.
  • Keep your liquids separate from the rest of your things . It really sucks when liquids spill all over everything in your bag. A TSA approved toiletries bag works the best! 
  • Wear your bulkiest items on the plane.  This is geared towards carry-on only travelers but it works. Take the pain of wearing 5 upper body layers for a flight if it will save you US$ 50! 
  • Choose a great backpack . If we haven’t convinced you yet, the Osprey brand is the best. Our bags have lasted years now and are still like new.
  • Keep your best stuff at home . This applies to anything – clothes, electronics or jewelry. Things happen when you travel so keep your valuables at home. 
  • A cheap pair of flip flops are great for gross showers . However, these are not great to walk in so be sure to bring a comfortable pair for walking in as well. 
  • Bring written prescriptions . It doesn’t hurt to have an option if you need to fill anything at some point.

We hope our travel packing list tips help you prepare perfectly for your next adventure!

Please let us know if you have any questions about packing for any part of the world.

Happy Packing ,

Mark and Kristen

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Ultimate Long Term Travel Packing List

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Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Frommer's - Home

Smart Traveler: How to Pack for Your Domestic Flight

By Zach Honig

Recent restrictions on airline baggage allowances have made packing for a domestic flight unnecessarily complex. As airlines and the TSA take the fun out of preparing for a quick trip across the country, simplify your next trip with these 5 packing tips for domestic travel.

Packing Tip #1: Make a packing list. You may not have trouble finding items in California that you can buy at home in Kansas, but making a travel packing list (and checking it twice) will guarantee that you don't leave any essentials behind. Make a list of items that you'd need for any trip, then add seasonal items specific to your destination. I always have a quart-size, clear plastic bag packed with miniature 3-ounce toiletries ready to go, but lists come in handy when it comes time to remember easily overlooked items, such as socks and cell-phone chargers.

Packing Tip #2: Carry it on. There are endless advantages to checking a bag, and just as many to carrying it on board. If you're able to adhere to the TSA's somewhat-granular liquids restrictions, then avoid baggage delays and checked luggage fees by rolling your bag on board. Every airline has a published list of carry-on bag size restrictions, but most gate agents have become more flexible in light of recent checked bag fees -- from my personal travel experience, at least. This means creative passengers may be able to board with both a wheelie suitcase (22-inches and under) and a backpack large enough to accommodate every "personal item" that you own (make sure the backpack can still fit under the seat in front of you). Keep in mind that bulkhead seats don't offer any floor storage at all. With everyone competing for space in the overhead compartment, avoid being the last to board, or you may not have room for your rolling carry-on.

Packing Tip #3: Compare the carry-on fees. Believe it or not, some airlines still allow you to check a bag for free. JetBlue ( www.jetblue.com ), for example, doesn't charge a fee for the first checked bag, and Southwest ( www.southwest.com ) even allows you to check a second bag without fees. Now infamous for its fees for carry-on baggage, Spirit Airlines ( www.spiritair.com ) charges a whopping $45 fee at the gate (or $30 at check-in) if you want to bring your carry-on bag on board (personal items are free). You'll actually save money by checking your bag -- the fee is $25 per bag, for the first and second checked bag per passenger -- so unless you're flying out for lunch, expect to pay some kind of additional fee for each leg of your trip.

Packing Tip #4: Leave it at home . One advantage to domestic travel is that your destination will generally sell anything that you'd find at home. It may be more cost-effective to purchase oversize liquids once you arrive, rather than paying a fee to check your bag. If you're visiting friends or family, you can ask to leave your prohibited items behind for your next trip, or you can simply offer to give any unused portions to your host. Alternatively, use solid toiletries whenever possible (small bars of soap instead of body wash, for example), and stock up on sample-size shampoos. Some hotels even offer toothbrushes with mini tubes of toothpaste, which also come in handy on future trips.

Packing Tip #5: Use Space Bags. Also great for international trips, space-saving bags (the generic versions work just fine) allow you to fit much more in your carry-on bag. Pack clothing items into each airtight plastic bag, and roll out the excess air. Don't be surprised if your bag feels heavier than it used to -- clothes will weigh just as much without the excess air, but you'll be able to pack more into your carry-on bag.

Planning a trip overseas? Learn How to Pack for an International Flight . As always, feel free to share your own travel packing tips in the comments section below.

Having visited nearly 30 countries on 5 continents in the last decade, Zach Honig's fascination with travel has clearly become an obsession. Follow Zach on Twitter ( @zachhonig ), or check out his blog, Tech, Travel and Tuna , to keep up to date on his latest adventures.

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Packing List | Ultimate Guide (w/Savable Checklists)

Packing lists are essential to ensure you don’t arrive at your destination without…underwear. Yes, I’m speaking from personal experience. Becoming a travel pro means you are always willing to improve on what is even working for you.

No trip is the same so we made packing lists for 3 & 7 days, an item consideration list, international prep list, & what to do before you leave at home.

Packing Lists

  • Printable Packing Lists
  • Travel Tips

Packing lists are essential to ensure you don’t arrive at your destination without…underwear. Yes, I’m speaking from personal experience. Here’s the thing - you’re more than capable of packing without a list. We have years of domestic travel & living abroad under our belts. We know there are a lot of ways to enhance your experience even by bringing a few items you may not have thought of before.

Typically I lay everything out on my bed to make sure I see everything that’s going in the bag + to ensure I have everything I’ll need. The problem is…without a list that still leaves things up to chance to be left behind. It feels so good knowing your bag is perfectly packed.

Whether you need a checklist to physically check off or just one to scan before you go - we put together packing lists that will be trusty companions every time you travel.  Every trip is different - the same destination will require different items depending on weather patterns. Also - you are going to bring such different clothing to the beach vs a big city. So we split the packing list into a few different sections so you don’t make any mistakes like forgetting to check the weather to see weather patterns that may have shifted. 

No trip is the same - we made several packing lists to accommodate different trips

Packing for a 3 day trip vs 7 day trip will be different so you’ll see a pack list for either length of time. Each of those lists is the “Master” packing list to make sure you have the essentials. After each master packing list, you’ll see one consideration pack list for items that are often overlooked or forgotten (i.e. rain jacket). 

International Travel also requires its own attention - so we put together a list of things to review/bring so you don’t show up to the airport with an expired passport.

Also - we put together “Travel Checklist | What To Do Before You Leave” so you can come back refreshed. (i.e. forgetting to take out the trash before you leave…is a nasty mistake)

packing list

In-Page Jump Links To Any Packing List On This Page

Packing List | 3 Day Packing List | 7 Day Packing List | Consideration Items International | Unique Items/Preparation Travel Checklist | What To Do Before You Leave

A few things to remember before reviewing the packing lists.

This list is made with carry-on luggage in mind. A big travel mistake is overpacking and I'm a firm believer that most trips can be packed in a carry-on bag. Of course if you need more room or don't want to lug around a bag at the airport...that makes total sense too! I currently use the 42L Carry-On Travel Backpack that's good for 7 days...and much longer if you do laundry while traveling...which I always do on longer trips!

If you’re REALLY dedicated, it can save some time if you plan your outfits. We suggest packing clothes that can go with each other in multiple ways. I always like to pack a lot of neutrals because they’re so easy to mix and match.

Make sure to adjust your clothes to the weather you’re expecting and any activities you’ll participate in. What will you be doing while you are there? You may need to pack a dressier shirt for a fancy dinner, a couple pairs of shoes, or a rain jacket…etc. When making my own packing list I try and pack multi-purpose items. I.e. Vans shoes are great casual shoes but also good for most hikes.

No matter what packing list you are using - toiletries are one of the common denominators. Grab your favorite toiletry products and throw them into your Toiletry Bag. We put together an article “ Travel Toiletries | Ultimate Guide ” to help you check out some travel tested & exciting toiletries we’ve been using.

Gravel sells a couple rad toiletry bags that help you stay super organized & compact. Check out the Explorer SLIM & Explorer PLUS toiletry bags . Gravel also sells Travel Bottles  for liquids that are an inexpensive way to take what soaps you already love vs gambling on hotel soaps. 

We put together a blog article “ How To Pack A Suitcase | Pro Packing Guide ” to help you pack everything…like a pro.

Packing List | 3 Day 

( Savable Version so you can use it digitally/or use it as a printable packing list. Duplicate the file on Google Docs to make edits and personalize to yourself!)

  • Fresh Outfit For Trip (Lay it out the night before) (x1)
  • Shirts (x3)
  • Sleepwear (Comfy Sweats OR Shorts) (x1)
  • Shorts (x1)
  • Underwear (x4)
  • Jacket OR Sweatshirt (x1)
  • Workout Wear (x1)
  • Laundry Bag (For Dirty Clothes) (x1)
  • Swim Suit (Always pack one…don’t get caught without one!) (x1)
  • Accessories
  • Toiletry Bag
  • Toothbrush & Toothpaste
  • Hair products 
  • Shampoo & Conditioner
  • 3oz  Travel Bottles  for liquids
  • Medicine (Make yourself a little pharmacy with Tylenol, allergy medicine, etc in one bottle!)
  • Birth control/condoms
  • Styling tools
  • Curling Iron, Straightener, Blow Dryer
  • Feminine hygiene
  • Tampons, pads, menstrual cup

Electronics/Comfort/Miscellaneous

  • Phone & charger
  • Headphones (AirPod Pro’s are fantastic because they have a noise canceling option)
  • Power bank (under 20,000mah to meet airport security regulations)
  • Laptop & charger
  • Wallet & ID (Make sure ID up to date)
  • Water Bottle
  • Playing cards (perfect for downtime)
  • Laundry Bag
  • Travel Blanket (Gravel makes one that packs down super small & is insulated)

Packing List | 7 Day 

( Savable version so you can use it digitally/or use it as a printable packing list. Duplicate the file on Google Docs to make edits and personalize to yourself!)

  • Shirts (x7)
  • Sleepwear (Comfy Sweats OR Shorts) (x3)
  • Shorts (x3)
  • Underwear (x8)
  • Jacket or Sweatshirt (x1)
  • Workout wear (x1)
  • Laundry bag (For Dirty Clothes) (x1)
  • Curling iron, straightener, blow dryer

Miscellaneous

  • Power bank (under 20,000mah to meet   airport security regulations)
  • Wallet & I.D.
  • Water bottle
  • Playing cards

Packing List | Consideration Items

( Savable version so you can use it digitally/print it off. Duplicate the file on Google Docs to make edits and personalize to yourself!)

  • Formal wear
  • Heavy jacket
  • Hiking shoes/boots (Tip! Multi-purpose shoes like Vans are casual & great to hike in)
  • First Aid kit (I typically carry a few essentials…band aids)
  • Headlamp/Flashlight
  • LifeStraw/ water filter

International | Unique Items/Preparation

  • Packable Blanket (Longer flights will mean you’ll likely need to sleep on the plane. Gravel makes one that packs down super small & is insulated)
  • Passport (Ensure it’s not expired)
  • Get COVID test (if required)
  • Upload COVID test to country visiting (if required) 
  • Download content (movies, audiobooks, music, etc)
  • Money Belt (keep money close and not stored into bags)
  • Lockable zippers with locks
  • Check currency exchange rates. Typically US banks give terrible exchange rates but it’s nice to get a little before you go)
  • Universal adaptor plug (Layovers in foreign countries have different outlets)
  • Power bank under 20,000 mah capacity (Some countries require this rule for air safety and will confiscate your power bank if it’s over)
  • Download Google Translate (Most powerful & free translation app available! You can have a conversation with somebody and it will translate as you talk. The camera will also translate any foreign language to your language of choice)
  • Unlock cell phone (You can buy SIM cards for cheap in every country and if your phone is unlocked you can use it. It’s a huge hassle to unlock while you are abroad. Just call your provider or go into a physical store and they will unlock your phone for international travel)
  • Bank card arrangements to prevent card from getting frozen
  • Snacks for the plane (Cheap & you always eat what you want)
  • Rental Car booked on credit card to get automatic rental insurance (Unless in Israel or Ireland…credit cards don’t cover those countries)
  • Download Agoda (Book inexpensive rooms)
  • Travel insurance (Optional)

Travel Checklist | What To Do Before You Leave

Trip Preparation

  • Arrange lodging, travel, rental vehicle, activities
  • Wallet, passport, boarding pass, fishing license, parks pass
  • Check weather
  • Buy any food/treats for travel
  • Fill water bottles

Home Preparation

  • Do dishes, laundry, take out garbage
  • Set thermostat schedule
  • Lock windows/doors
  • Turn off fans, lights, turn on exterior front door light
  • Ask neighbor or friend to watch the house
  • Arrange care for pets while gone

Electronics

  • Download movies, music, audiobooks
  • Update & charge electronics

I hope you learned a ton about packing lists! Comment below if there’s anything you think we missed or could improve. Packing lists are something you should personalize for sure…so the links we provided should be a great way to make these your own. Have fun on your upcoming trip!

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Bonnie

You don’t have to publish this: Guess someone was hungry while writing the article “Packing List | Ultimate Guide (w/Savable Checklists)” (17 Jan 2022): “It feels so food knowing your bag is perfectly packed.” Otherwise very nice and helpful articles.

Jeff Pershing

Jeff Pershing

Thank you!!

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The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Packing can be one of the most frustrating elements of traveling. It doesn’t seem to matter if it is your first trip or your 10th, you always seem to miss something. We put together this ultimate packing list t o help you avoid those packing mistakes on your next trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect Packing Checklist

It is important to note that we compiled this ultimate travel packing list from 10 years of being professional travelers and bloggers. The goal of this packing list is to provide you with packing tips that will allow you to travel as efficiently and as comfortably as possible.

Travel Packing List for Luggage

Choosing what type of luggage you are going to use is a personal choice. We have used everything from hi-tech wheeled luggage to the latest backpacks. These are our top recommendations for checked luggage and carry-on luggage that is durable and lightweight.

Aluminum Roller – Known as the Rolls Royce of Luggage, Sterling Pacific is the top choice for luxury travelers, frequent fliers, and pilots. Its aluminum body is lightweight and the Italian leather handles give it extra points for style. Plus it has a lifetime warranty.

4 Wheeled Roller : Our yellow   Voyageur Check-In 28  turned heads. We didn’t worry about anyone mixing up our bags on the conveyor belt with our unique color and design. We found the 28-inch a bit too large, but you can order 24? or 26?. But with the large handle and ultra-quite 360° spinner wheels it was super easy to navigate through the airport

Carry-on Roller : Pro Carry-on with Laptop Pocket  by Level8. We felt so chic going through the airport with these hard cases and modern design and it was easy t o  pop out my laptop and documents right from the front hard case pocket when going through security.

Travel Backpack : If you are heading to destinations that are less developed, you are going to want a reliable backpack. You will want something in the 55L size and it should be comfortable on your back. We recommend the Osprey Fairpoint for men and the Osprey Fairview for women.

Rolling Duffel Bag Eagle Creek Rolling Duffel – Duffel bags are lightweight and durable for rough terrain. We like the separate compartments for hiking boots and how it can still look elegant when going into higher-end hotels.

Messenger Bag Travelon Antitheft Messenger Bag   – Deb carries an over-the-shoulder bag that crosses over her body. It keeps valuables secure from any snatch and grabs and the RFID component helps with any cyber security.

Carry-on Backpack – We’ve recently started using this carry-on backpack by Standard Luggage. The 3 in 1 bag turns into a backpack, suitcase, and shoulder bag to suit your needs. It meets all airline cabin rules which is a bonus and expand from 35 – 45 L. Plus, it’s water resistant to help keep valuable electronics and camera gear safe.

In addition to your luggage, you are going to want to keep everything organized.

Organizing Your Luggage

The first thing you will want to purchase will be packing cubes. These are lightweight compression bags that can help you separate your different types of clothes and keep your bag organized.

  • Electronics Organizer
  • Toiletry Bag
  • Foldable Day Pack
  • Document Organizer

Pro Tip: When checking in at the airport, take your computers out of your carry-on bag and put them in a collapsible tote bag (we fold it in the front pocket of our carry-on.) That way it lightens your load should you be weighed, but it doesn’t look like an extra piece of luggage.

Travel Packing Lists for Clothes

Packing clothes can be the most confusing and frustrating experiences of all. What we have learned over the past 10 years fo traveling is to have a base set of close, or capsule wardrobe , consisting of pieces that can be mixed and matched. We then add on from there depending on the length of the trip, the weather at the destination, and if we are going carry-on only or not.

Capsule Wardrobe for Women

  • 1x Travel Skirt
  • 1x Convertible Pants
  • 2x Casual Pants (Usually 1 pair of leggings and 1 pair of pants that can be dressed up or down)
  • 1x Long-Sleeved Shirt (I may add one depending on the cultural norms of the country I am visiting.)
  • 4x Short-Sleeved Shirts or Blouses
  • 1x Bathing Suit
  • 1x Merino Wool Sweater or Fleece
  • 4-6x Sports Bras and Underwear
  • 1- Dress/Sundress
  • 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 casual pair and 1 hiking pair)
  • 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool Hiking Socks)

Travel Accessories for Her

  • Buffs or headbands
  • Rain Jacket or Outer Shell

Capsule Wardrobe for Men

  • 1x Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 3x Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2x Convertable Pants
  • 1x Lightweight pant or jeans
  • 2x Shorts (1 doubles as a bathing suit)
  • 4-6 Exofficio Underwear
  • 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool )
  • 1x Merino Wool Sweater
  • 2x Pairs of Shoes (1 casual and 1 for hiking)

Travel Accessories for Him

  • Rain Jacket/Outer Shell

Pro Tip : If you are looking for a winter vacation planning list make sure to check out our How to Dress for Cold Weather article.

Checklist for Packing Toiletries

No travel packing list worth its weight would be complete without a comprehensive checklist for packing your toiletries. The first step is to make sure you have a good toiletry bag. We use this one as it is spacious, light, and hangs on the back of any door. To make it easier for you we have broken down to the travel essentials and the extras.

What to pack in your Toiletry Kit – Toiletry Essential Checklist

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shampoo and Conditioner (We transfer ours in GoToobes for easier storage)
  • Tweezers and Nail Clippers
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Gold Bond Medicated Powder (for hot climates)
  • Face/Body Moisturizer
  • Chapstick/Lip Balm
  • Prescription Medication

Toiletry Extras Checklist

  • Hair products like hairspray and hair gel
  • Travel Mirror
  • Shaving Kit and razors
  • Pegless Clothesline
  • Travel Towel
  • Hairbrush or Tangle Teezer
  • Toothbrush Sanitizer

Read:  7 Tips for Stress-Free Travel  – here you will find a travel packing list of what we take in our care package on

Packing Checklist for Electronics

When it comes to electronics there are a lot of variables that will determine what you take and what you leave at home. In today’s day and age, there are certain things that everyone will want to take with them, and most of them will fit easily into your carry-on luggage. This checklist for packing electronics will give you the tools to bring back great memories and pack as light as possible.

  • World Travel Adaptor : Each country that you visit may have a different plug configuration. This adaptor has you covered for every country.
  • Belkin Mini Surge Protector : This is one piece of electronics we don’t leave home without. It protects your electronics against surges, has 3 plugs and 2 USB outlets for charging.
  • iPhone/Smartphone: We use the iPhone 11 Pro. : Almost a necessity in today’s world, a smartphone can come in handy in so many ways. You can use it as a camera, a place to store your itineraries and keep friends and family up to date on Social Media.
  • Travel Camera: Our recommendation would be the Sony RX100 VII : A good camera that fits in your pocket should be on everyone’s travel checklist. We recommend one that is small, lightweight, and can fit in your pocket.
  • Noise Cancelling Headphones: If you want to get any sleep on a plane or bus ride these are essential. We use Beats Studio 3 but some people prefer earbuds. Whichever you choose make sure they are good quality to drown out all that noise.
  • Portable Power Bank : The last thing you want to do is run out of power for your electronics when you are on the road. We carry a portable power back that keeps all of our electronics charged.
  • Memory Cards : Always pack spare memory cards so you don’t run out of space when you want to capture that perfect shot.

Optional Electronics

  • E-Reader or Kindle : If you are into books this is something you will want to add to your packing list.
  • Laptop (This is for extended trips) : We carry one everywhere as that is our business. We recommend you pack one for longer trips or if you are into taking a lot of photos and videos like us. We recommend the MacBook Air for most people.
  • External Hard Drive : Plan on taking a lot of videos and photos? Make sure you back them up so if something happens you don’t lose all your precious memories.
  • Drone: We use the Mavic Pro 2 : Add a whole new element to your memories with a drone. We have been using one for years and love it.
  • Portable Bluetooth Speaker : If you love music as much as we do you have to pack one of these for some tunes in your hotel room.
  • Travel Tripod : Whether it be for selfies or night photography you will be glad you have on in your bag for those unique situations.

Are you into Travel Photography? Make sure to check out my Travel Photography Gear Guide and find out what is in my camera bag.

Packing List for Comfort

If there is one thing we have learned after all of these years is that a little comfort goes a long way. Especially when you are traveling on airplanes and busses. By adding these travel accessories to your packing list you can rest assured you will be comfortable . All of these have been tested on long plane, train and bus rides so you know that they work.

  • Travel Pillow : After flying over 500,000 miles we have found the Trtl Neck travel pillow to be the best travel pillow out there. It is comfortable, gives great supports, and takes up almost no room in your bag.
  • Eye Mask and Ear Plugs : No plane flight would be complete without these. The Pretty Care Eye mask is what we recommend. IT doesn’t rest on your eyes, is padded, and blocks out all light.
  • Foldable Water Bottle : Staying hydrated on the plane is paramount to feeling refreshed when you arrive at your destination. WE fill this up after security so we always have water on the plane with us.
  • Sarong : We have found that plane blankets just don’t cut it. That is why we always have a sarong with us on the plane if the air is a little too cold and you want to bundle up.
  • Chapstick and hand moisturizer : WE all know how dry the plane gets. I pack this moisturizing kit so that my hands and face stay moisturized throughout the flight.
  • Flight Flap Phone and Tablet Holder : WE discovered this last year and fell in love with it. No more sore necks from watching movies on your phone and tablet. This hangs on the back of the seat so you can watch in comfort.
  • Travel Socks : I started using compression socks because they prevent DVT. I know more than a few people who have gotten DVT and this can be very serious. Compression socks help prevent blood clots and are highly recommended.

Packing List for First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential piece of travel gear. We have a n extensive first aid kit as we do a lot of adventures, but most people can get by with the essentials. You can buy pre-made first aid kits. This compact first aid kit  is a good start but it is just as easy to make one at home from your medicine cabinet. That way you only pack what you need.

  • Prescription Medication – with a photocopy of our prescriptions
  • Insect repellent 
  • Advil or Tylenol for pain relief
  • Gravol – for nausea  
  • Benadryl and Claritin – For allergic reactions
  • Allergy Eyedrops
  • Imodium – for mild diarrhea
  • Rehydration tablets and electrolyte tables – in case of dehydration or severe diarrhea.
  • Topical Ointment like Polysporin or prescription Fucidin Cream – For cuts and scrapes
  • Antiseptic spray – it’s important to clean cuts quickly, especially in tropical climates. 
  • Moleskin – protects your skin from blisters.
  • Thermometer
  • Do you want to be prepared for every travel emergency? Check out our Ultimate First Aid Kit Packing List.

Travel Documents

Keeping your essential travel documents in order and organized can really take the stress out of travel. Using a travel organizer allows you to all the things you need in one convenient place.

  • Passport and Visas- Make sure to have an electronic copy of both in case yours gets lost.
  • Personal ID like a drivers license
  • Bank cards, Credit Cards. Keep a contact number for your bank and credit card companies in your phone for emergencies.
  • Emergency cash: We suggest 1 days worth of USD.
  • Frequent Flier cards
  • Travel Insurance documents, policy number , and contact information.
  • Immunization records if needed.
  • Itineraries or reservations- either printed out or stored in an app like Tripit.
  • Boarding passes
  • Emergency contact information.
  • Guide book or maps- in either hard copy or digital copy.

Travel Security

Travel security is something we should all take seriously. Most problems tend to occur in bigger cities and in the form of pickpockets or petty theft. If you add these items to the travel packing list it might help deter would-be thieves.

  • RFID Wallet: Protects against RFID Skimming, which is a form of theft using wireless transmitters to gain information to your credit and debit card identification chips. They can do it just by walking by.
  • Money belt or neck wallet: We used these in the early days and they can be useful in the big cities where there are a lot of pickpockets.
  • PacSafe Luggage Lock: This is perfect if you are staying in hostels or guesthouses.
  • Luggage tracker: Give you peace of mind and lets you track your luggage if it gets lost.

More Anti-Theft Suggestions: If you want to get more in-depth about protecting your valuables when you travel check out THE BEST ANTI THEFT TRAVEL BAGS AND ACCESSORIES

Pre-Trip Checklist

Regardless of whether you are going on an extended trip or just a 2 week vacation there are a few things you are going to want to do before you board the plane. We have a complete pre-travel checklist that you can see here.

  • Call your banks and credit card companies to tell them of your travel plans. This will avoid cards being flagged for purchases in another country.
  • Check baggage restrictions
  • Check to see if there are any Visa requirements
  • Check Immunization requirements
  • Leave flight and travel itineraries with a friend or relative.
  • Check-in online or check flight information before leaving for the airport.

And there you have it. Our complete international travel packing list. We have done our best to answer all your travel packing questions and give you some packing tips that you can use on your next vacation. After years of traveling around the world, we hope that our extensive experience helps you when you are deciding what to pack for your next big adventure.

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Looking for more packing tips.

If you liked our ultimate travel packing list, why not check out some other great packing lists and travel tips travel that will be sure to help you out on your next trip.

  • The Ultimate Camping Packing List : All the essentials you will need for your next camping trip.
  • The Ultimate European Vacation Packing List : Great packing tips for your next trip to Europe.
  • The Only Pre-Travel Checklist You Will Ever Need Everything you will need to do before you head to the airport for your next vacation.
  • The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories : Tips and recommendations on what you need to stay organized while traveling.

You May Also Like These Helpful Travel Planners

  • Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
  • The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
  • Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
  • Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?
  • How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs
  • Essential Tips for Essential Travel
  • 10 Must Have Items to Make Air Travel Easy

What else would you add to our travel packing list? Add them in the comments below.

Disclosure:  The links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We receive affiliate commissions, but it’s no extra cost to you!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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29 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)”

This is very good content, images to perfect articles, hope you will share more in the future for everyone to see. Thank you very much.

Goig to Machu Pichu in Feb 2020.. 67 yrs young, not a regular hiker. Can you help me with packing list please? Also Amazon headwaters then to coast to relax by ocean for couple of days.

Hi I’m travelling from Australia to India for 2 weeks and will be visitng Dharamashala, Bodh Gaya and Dehli (2 nights)? I am 21yo, well I will be when I leave on 15 January. I am travelling with 7 others. I will be sharing a room with another lady, which I am pleased about as I can be prone to anxiety. Could you please help me with a packing list? Also do you think I should purchase a back pack that will protect my cards from being scanned? Do you recommend some type of money bag/sleeve that I can safely hold my money and passport? Thanks and sorry for all the questions, I don’t want to be caught out!

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

if you are only using a carry-on, you cannot take tweezers, or small scissors. They were taken away from me when I had them in a carry-on.

Actually I have affiliate links for both booking.com and lonely planet, but only on my guides section. The booking.com link works well, $15 for whenever somebody uses my link. On top of it, I do my own hotel bookings through my own link, so I’m actually giving myself a $15 discount 🙂 I only have these links on a very small section of my blog, totally agree with not doing too much of it early on. I’ve seen too many blogs that I previously enjoying selling out to advertising and turning into what looks like an online Casino site 🙂 Frank (bbqboy)

Great to hear Frank! Thanks for sharing.

Hey guys – we ended up going to the Bay and getting a couple of rolling duffels. Plus they had a special over the weekend and picked up bags that were usually $600 each (we went for the higher end models) at 50% off. So great tip about the Bay. Yes, I should be smarter about affiliate links on the blog. I’ve been a bit lazy on the monetization aspect… Frank

That’s fantastic! The Bay is great isn’t it? I love shopping there. Every time I go to the checkout, they always have a surprise discount. Even when it’s advertised on the item that it’s on sale, they seem to have another deeper discount at the desk. I think it’s one of the best places to shop for luggage. Best of luck with affiliates. It took us years to get around to it. You really need traffic to make it happen as you don’t make much off of each item. It’s base more on volume than sales. With Amazon it’s something like 4%. But it’s nice to get a bit of extra in the pockets if you can supply your readers with something of value.

Great! Have one right downtown next to the optometrist I’m seeing today. Thanks!

Perfect. Hope your eyes are doing well 🙂 The bay always has amazing deals on luggage.

I have seen so many of such type of blogs which contains these packing lists. But all of them possesses the same sort of things in the list. You have done such a wonderful job of adding some brilliant things, which can be very useful in any tour. I really appreciate your work.

Thank you for the kind words. We had a lot of fun putting it together. I just went through my bag and started making a list. It was a lot of work, but I think it’s worth it.

Wow…really great packing list especially with the images, never seen this before. It would be great if you can create a smartphone app 🙂

I was never a fan of these packing list posts. But we’ve been travelling non-stop now for a year and have had so many frustrations with our gear. Besides too much stuff (inefficient clothing mostly) our carrying bags (backpacks) just so damn heavy. Like you say, you can go light when travelling for a couple of weeks but when you’re gone for a year you’re going to be carrying more. We’ll be back in Canada next week and one of the many things we have to do during our month there is to re-organize our whole baggage/packing situation. I know I’m asking for a lot here – but any idea where in Montreal we can get some of those Travel bags? I’m not one to buy stuff online, have to see it with my own eyes. Informative post! Frank (bbqboy)

HI Frank, We bought our rolling duffles at The Bay, they always have amazing deals.

Some great ideas here, but I cant fathom traveling with this much stuff or luggage. I take much shorter trips, but do everything in a 20″ expandable rollaboard and daypack.

My concern with packing camera gear in a larger back is what if you are forced to check that bag? Even runway check the bag? My Crumpler camera bag and laptop fit in the daypack so even if I am forced to check the rollaboard, I have my breakables in the smaller bag to carry on the plane.

I do what Stuart mentioned in the above comment. I have a list for a carryon beach/adventure vacation; a list for the checked bag adventure/beach vacation; lists for carryon and checked city vacations and a business trip packing list. All of these can be altered for the weather/sports at the location.

There’s certainly some good kit on this list. A friend of mine swears that the best way to pack is to maintain lists for different types of destination (i.e. one for winter sports and another for beach vacations) and refer to them while packing. I still pack on an ad hoc basis! Enjoy your travels.

Some great tips here guys! I wish I had read one of these before I first hit the road seven years ago! – certainly would have changed what I took! These days, as long as I have my knife and my head torch; I know I’m pretty much ready for any adventure 🙂

Great article Dave and Deb! You guys are travel experts so if you like our clothes we know we’re doing something right. We look forward to continuing following your travels!

I like it so much. Each time I travel and expect long hour travel by plane, I make sure I have a jet lag cure like JetlagFX. It’s a great supplement and works well for me.

I just got a sample pack of JetlagFX, I can’t wait to try it out.

Great lists! As someone who packs light when I travel, I like how you categorized everything and stuck to the basics.

Thanks. We aren’t the lightest packers since we are on the road constantly, but for we find this list does everything we need without too much extraneous weight.

Great article!! i am a girl so is difficult for me to make a Packing list , but i really think that i have to make one the next trip because i always travel with a lot of stuff in my bags.

Wow, it really is a long list of things…. Bags, organizers, clothes, gears………. simply amazing By the way, Deb looks dashing on the image carrying luggage…

Holy moly, that is the motherload of packing lists. I’m bookmarking it for later. I’m particularly interested in your photography and electronics. I have only just started making enough money writing to even begin to think about traveling and writing full time, but I just don’t know where to begin. Thanks for this awesomely detailed post.

Great post! I need some organization in packing wisely when traveling. My favorite was the travel organizers. I probably would not need as much electronic gear as you have. My iPhone is sufficient enough for me when taking pictures. They come out pretty good. Some of your other ideas are great. We usually check on locations for laundry when traveling for any length of time. This too can cut down on the amount that you have to pack. The downside is that it may take up some of your time to do the laundry.

wow great information. i like this list for travel packing.

Aplins in the Alps Jana and Brett blue rectangle logo

How to Pack a Carry-On + Printable Travel Packing List

How to pack carry on only and free travel packing list download Aplins in the Alps Travel Europe

If you’ve ever searched “How to pack a carry on” or “What to pack in a carry on” then you’re in the right place! Get an inside look at our travel packing list — and download a carry on packing list too!

Prefer to WATCH instead of READ?  Here ya go!

If we haven’t met, we’re Jana and Brett, Aplins in the Alps . Since we both work online and have dual Italian citizenship, we spend half of the year living in Europe! And we’ve done that by learning how to pack a carry-on really, really well . 

I know it sounds crazy, but we pack up all of our life into one suitcase each plus one tech backpack. And then we live with only those 3 bags for at least 4 or 5 months a year. 

Which means that you can definitely pack carry-on only for your next adventure! Whether you’re going to the beach, heading to the mountains, enjoying a cruise, or embarking on a road trip, you can also travel carry-on only. 

(The only exception is if you’re traveling in the middle of winter. Since we only travel during the other 3 seasons, we pack just enough layers to manage during the chilly spring and fall.)

Aplins in the Alps Carry-On Packing list for Carry-On Travel europe how to pack a carry on packing list

This is exactly what we pack, plus our personalized notes to help you customize the list to you and your travels. Get your travel packing checklist PDF today!

10 Essentials That I Always Pack (And Other People Don’t)

Since we first started traveling in 2016, I’ve read hundreds — hundreds — of travel packing lists. I just enjoy seeing how people prioritize what they bring, and how they squeeze countless items into one bag for full-time travel around the world. 

I’ve found that my travels are less impacted by my clothing and more enhanced by these other essential items! So here are 10 things I never travel to Europe without.

1. USB drive : This should be included on every ultimate packing list. We put digital copies of all of our important documents on a USB drive, and we stash one in each of our bags. They’re password protected and encrypted for safety, but they’re also a backup for us in case any of our documents get stolen. Suggestion: Buy a 3-pack of USB drives . We haven’t used these exact ones, but they have excellent reviews on Amazon!

domestic travel packing list

2. Collapsible containers : Zippered bags can be hard to find, and we take a lot of picnics. Instead of nesting containers (which we traveled with last year), we’ve upgraded to these collapsible ones because they take up even less space. Here are the collapsible containers we use .

domestic travel packing list

3. Packable daypack : Most carry-on packing lists include a backpack, but not a packable one. I only like to travel with my suitcase and small purse, but not a backpack. Yet I need a bag for hiking. So this collapsible backpack does the trick. It’s not the most comfortable, but it gets the job done. It folds in on itself when not being used so I can stuff it into any corner of my suitcase. And it’s super durable because we’ve used these bags for years now! Buy your packable backpack here .

domestic travel packing list

4. Laundry soap : Are you ready for one of the best carry-on packing tips? It’s tough to travel carry-on with liquids, so these foam laundry sheets are incredible! You can toss a whole sheet in the washer with your clothes, or just rip off a small piece if you need to hand wash something in the sink. These are my favorite laundry detergent strips .

domestic travel packing list

5. Laundry bags : And the next best carry-on packing tip is similar. Some of our clothes need to be washed on delicate, but these mesh laundry bags also make sure that I don’t lose anything when I’m walking to/from the laundry room, and so that I don’t leave behind any socks in the machine either. Grab a set of these mesh laundry bags ! Bonus tip: pack a paracord to double as a laundry clothesline!

domestic travel packing list

6. Grocery bags : Did you know that you have to pay for grocery bags in European grocery stores? So we always pack a few thick, plastic bags for our groceries. And since we travel for months at a time, we do a lot of grocery shopping and cooking, so these get plenty of use during our travels. We don’t have a link for this one because we just bought them at the grocery store 🙂

7. Spices : You know how most airbnbs only have salt and pepper? Well that gets boring after a while, so I always pack 1 or 2 of our favorite spices to keep our meals tasty! Cajun seasoning is one of our favorites!

domestic travel packing list

8. Sewing kit : You would not believe how many times we lose a button or get a little hole in our shirt. This sewing kit gets more use than you might think! Here’s a good mini travel sewing kit .

domestic travel packing list

9. Thank you notes : Don’t forget to add thank you notes to your carry-on packing list! We love to leave handwritten thank you notes for our airbnb hosts or when we stay with friends, and even when we meet new friends at church, so a few thank you notes are a must for my bag. Tip: Store them in your planner, journal, book, or computer so they don’t get bent. We often buy a bulk set of blank multi-purpose notecards and envelopes .

domestic travel packing list

10. Fabric pads : Gentlemen, you can skip this one because it’s just for the ladies. I highly recommend packing fabric pads and daily pads. They are super comfortable and perfect for long-term travel because you always have your feminine products with you — you don’t have to try to find products in the grocery store or pharmacy. I just toss them in a laundry bag and wash them with our clothes every week.  I’m loyal to WeeEssentials handmade fabric pads .

Our Clothes and Toiletries

I’m sure you clicked this link expecting a detailed report of the ultimate packing list. So, we’re going to deliver! This is what we have packed for years, and what we give our friends when they ask for carry-on packing tips.

Aplins in the Alps Carry-On Packing list for Carry-On Travel europe how to pack a carry on packing list

Our Other Favorites

Here are some of our favorite products that are already packed in our bag for our next season of adventures! As a bonus, these items are perfect for domestic or international travel packing lists.

*These are affiliate links and we earn a small amount if you purchase something through these links. We only recommend products that we actually use (and have already packed in our suitcases). We’re grateful for your support and hope you enjoy these as much as we do!

Bags/Storage

  • Away Carry-on Suitcase : Wondering how to pack a carry on? Start with a good bag! If you’re looking to upgrade your old fabric suitcase or are tired of lugging a backpack (like we were), consider a flexible hard-shell suitcase like this one!
  • Hikepro Packable Backpack : If you want a small, simple, packable backpack, then look no further! We’ve used this bag since 2016 and won’t recommend anything else!
  • Travelon Crossbody Purse : Our travel packing list would not be complete without this purse! Locking zippers, RFID blocking, and slash proof. I’ve had mine for 3 years and it still looks brand new. Plus it’s a mini size that just fits my phone, documents, cash, chapstick, hand sanitizer, and a few other essentials.
  • Ebags Slim Packing Cubes : Still wondering how to pack a carry on? Packing cubes are the answer. They compress and squeeze your clothes to help you pack more. (And then your suitcase will feel like a Mary Poppins bag!) These particular carry-on packing cubes fit perfectly into a carry-on sized suitcase!
  • Collapsible Storage Containers : The picnic containers of your dreams that are also packable. Such a practical item to pack!

Laundry & Sewing & First Aid

  • Laundry Detergent Strips : Never worry about buying and wasting a giant size of laundry detergent again.
  • Mesh Laundry Bags : Stash your dirty clothes in here, use these to carry clothes to/from the room, and stop worrying about losing socks in the washer! Tip: Ladies, this is what I store and wash my fabric pads in.
  • Travel Sewing Kit : Because when you wear the same few outfits over and over for months at a time, your clothes tend to get a little worn out. 
  • Travel First Aid Kit : Because no one wants to get a boo boo and not have a bandaid.
  • Buff : This incredible piece of cloth is SPF and doubles as a scarf, headband, facemask, ear muff, hat, and so much more! We tried these for the first time in 2021, and I’m not sure what took us so long to buy these because we used them so often!
  • Ladies Ponyflo Baseball Hat : Finally, a hat that fits your ponytail. This was an impulsive Instagram purchase that I’ve never regretted. 
  • Fabric Menstrual Pads : I think every ultimate packing list for women needs some sort of reusable, sustainable feminine products. Pick which size and style suits you best. Personally, I love the organic, breathable fabric! 
  • SPF Makeup and Sunscreen by Jane Iredale : Clean makeup and skincare products that are non-GMO, paraben-free, and all-natural. We switched to organic products a few years ago and I’ve loved everything Jane Iredale!  (Use this link to get $20 off your first order of $50+!)
  • Powder Me SPF 30 Dry Sunscreen : This comes in a sheer color, for both men and women. How to pack a carry on with minimal liquids? Use a powder SPF!
  • Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 : When we’re outside all day long exploring, it’s important to have a basic SPF like this on our faces. We usually apply to the tops of our hands too.
  • Translucent Lip Drink Lip Balm SPF 15 : Not only does this nourish your lips, but it protects them from sunburn too! I actually swipe this on every single night before I go to bed to keep my lips hydrated, both when we’re traveling and when we’re at home.
  • Loose Mineral Powder SPF 20 : I started having age spots appear on my forehead after we spent a full summer in Europe. Wearing this SPF powder helps keep my skin tone even. 
  • P.S. Don’t forget to use this link to get $20 off your first order of $50+!

Pack confidently!

Now you don’t need to search “How to pack a carry on” or “What to pack in a carry on” because you already have the ultimate packing list!

Curious about our travel tech gear? Browse our tech travel backpack here.

Aplins in the Alps Carry-On Packing List for Carry-On Travel Europe travel packing list

Or see more on our Gear Page !

Prefer to watch? Here ya go!

Jana is an SEO copywriter and content editor plus travel YouTuber. She loves all things gelato, sunshine, and words. Her perfect day? Tossing on sunglasses to read a book and catch some rays, then dinner with her husband and friends. In her free time, Jana disciples teen girls and cooks from scratch (like homemade pasta). Jana lives in Switzerland with her husband, Brett.

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How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip With One Small Suitcase

Expert advice from professional travelers on what to bring and where to put it.

domestic travel packing list

By John Wogan

Ask any frequent traveler their rules for a trip, and you’ll likely hear the same advice: Never check a bag. Carry-on only. But fitting everything you need, especially for a longer stay, into one small suitcase and one handbag or backpack requires some ingenuity: The maximum dimensions for luggage going into most overhead bins are 22 by 14 by 9 inches, and though the majority of domestic flights don’t have — or at least don’t enforce — weight limits, some international and trans-Pacific flights do (certain Delta flights to Asia, for example, have a limit of 22 pounds, while Hawaiian Airlines’s maximum is 25 pounds). The payoff, if you do get it right: quicker airport experiences that don’t involve the risk of lost luggage and, upon arrival, fewer decisions about what to wear. Here, tried-and-true tips from a few experts.

An illustration of three items of luggage, including a metal trundle suitcase with a triangular Prada bag suspended from the handle with a blue passport sticking out of the top.

Choose the Right Luggage

Though some regular travelers swear by soft bags — the New York-based stylist Ian Bradley, 38, favors the capacious extra-large L.L. Bean Adventure Duffel — most are committed to hard, rolling suitcases. “They’re lighter,” says Hitha Palepu, 39, a New York-based author and entrepreneur who wrote what might be the definitive book on the topic, 2017’s “ How to Pack: Travel Smart for Any Trip .” The polycarbonate material used for hard-shell suitcases, she explains, “is about half the weight of the rugged nylon used in soft suitcases.” These are the rolling bags our experts recommended:

A roller from the German brand Rimowa is often considered the gold standard, and many people we spoke with vouched for the products’ durability. “They’re more expensive but a worthy investment,” says the New York-based artist Laila Gohar, 35. (Like the Antwerp-based architect Vincent Van Duysen, 62, she flies with the aluminum Cabin model .) For those concerned about weight limits: The brand’s lightest full-size carry-on is the Essential Lite Cabin , at 4.9 pounds.

Palepu is a fan of the hard-shell suitcases by the American brand Béis , which are considerably less expensive than Rimowa’s. “They have the best in-suitcase compression, a really solid construction and a padded handle for dragging through the airport,” she says.

The New York-based chef and author Andy Baraghani , 34, who completed a multicity book tour last year, likes the Away Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition because it feels indestructible, he says. “And its glossy finish stands out from the rest of the luggage at the airport.” (Just be careful to check that its above-average dimensions are compatible with your airline’s carry-on size limit.)

Edit Your Packing List Ruthlessly

“You can’t have a ‘just in case’ mentality,” says Gohar. “If something isn’t absolutely essential, it doesn’t make the cut.” Below, some strategies for identifying the bare necessities.

“Look for clothes with viscose or Lyocell blends, or silk and wool — those fabrics are more wrinkle-resistant than most,” Palepu advises. She prioritizes “pants that can be worn multiple times before they become unattractively baggy, patterned shirtdresses (prints help disguise wrinkles) and matching sets that can be mixed and matched with other pieces.” But her real workhorses are men’s non-iron button-down shirts from Uniqlo — they rarely get creased and work with a wide range of outfits.

Suits are also a great option because of their versatility. “They can be dressed up with heels for a night out, or down during the day with a tank top and sneakers,” says the London-based creative director Alex Eagle, 40. The gallerist Mariane Ibrahim, who lives between Mexico City, Paris and Chicago, has a similar philosophy: “My bag always includes an evening and a day suit, plus a few staple items in black and white (jeans, T-shirts).”

For Gohar, the key is building an adaptable uniform. “If you have a solid base look, you can get away with bringing one coat, one or two pairs of pants and simply changing your shirt daily,” she says. “And I’m not afraid to wash my clothes, or my kid’s, in the hotel sink. I just ask housekeeping for an unscented soap and then hang them to dry.”

It’s easiest to buy travel sizes of your favorite products and refill them from larger bottles at home, which eliminates excessive waste, says Palepu (alternatively, small empty containers can be found at stores like Muji). She also suggests streamlining by finding multipurpose products: “My EltaMD tinted sunscreen is hydrating enough to be my daytime moisturizer; I use my Le Prunier oil as a hydrating serum and a finishing oil and to slick back flyaway hair.”

Flight Essentials

Palepu likes to pack a simple cross-body bag with the items she’ll need between takeoff and landing (lip balm, sanitizing wipes, an e-reader), carrying it on board inside a bigger tote, then keeping it on her lap once she’s seated. The hotelier Philomena Schurer-Merckoll, 40, who splits her time between Marrakech and London, recommends the British brand Métier’s Perriand Weekend bag in lieu of a handbag; its hidden exterior pockets make things easy to reach on the plane, she says, and “the clip-in clutch means I have an evening bag for my trip.” And the fashion designer Phillip Lim, 51, recommends bringing a Bluetooth transmitter from Airfly, which allows wireless headphones to connect to the in-flight entertainment system.

Pack as if Every Inch Counts (Because It Does)

Work from heavy to light.

As a general rule, Palepu packs the largest items first, to maximize space. She recommends rolling most — but not all — garments, to avoid wrinkles, and always packs this very compact steamer to remove the few creases that do inevitably occur (she also uses the device to steam her face after flights before applying a hydrating mask). Here’s how she recommends filling a bag, from bottom to top:

Begin by laying any bulky sweaters flat at the bottom of one half of your suitcase, with the sleeves and any extra fabric flowing over the sides.

If you’ll need a coat once you arrive, choose a versatile one and wear it on the plane. If you really need another piece of outerwear, make it a thin one and pack it with your bulky sweaters.

Fold suit pants lengthwise to preserve the crease, then roll them. For packing suit jackets, Palepu endorses this method , which involves folding the garment into a square along the seams. Lay these pieces on top of your sweaters.

Roll any other pants as well as skirts, dresses, pajamas and workout clothes and pack these next.

Fold shirts and tops along the seams, to cut down on wrinkles, and lay these on top of the rolled pieces.

Fit underwear and socks in any remaining gaps.

Once all your clothes are in your case, fold your sweater sleeves over the top of your other items.

In the other half of your bag, arrange your shoes, stored in shoe bags, around the perimeter. (To save space, wear the bulkiest pair you plan to bring on the flight.)

Pack any other accessories and your toiletries in the center of your shoes.

Consider Packing Cubes

Packing cubes, which are zippered pouches designed to compress clothing and save space, are especially useful for multistop trips, providing a more seamless way to pack and unpack quickly. Bradley likes those made by Bagsmart and also repurposes the dust bags that came with some of his accessories. “I put underwear, shoes and shirting in one and pants in another,” he says. Packing cubes are particularly helpful for young families, too, says Palepu: Her children each have a set in their favorite color, which means their clothes are easily distinguishable if they share a suitcase. Joeonna Bellardo-Samuels, 44, a senior director at New York’s Jack Shainman Gallery, says one of her secret pleasures is “snagging good hotel laundry bags” to use in place of cubes. “Each one is embellished with a gorgeous monogram that reminds me of my adventures.”

Ship Souvenirs Home

If you’re going on a shopping-focused trip, Palepu suggests packing a foldable duffel in your carry-on that you can fill and then either check in for the return flight or ship home en route to the airport. “Dirty laundry is the best padding for packing fragile items,” she says. Likewise, Eagle packs an L.L. Bean Boat & Tote for return-trip overflow including gifts and her children’s laundry (packing it separately means it’s easier to throw in the wash once you’re home). “The zip on the top makes it secure,” she says. “So you can check it — if you really need to.”

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The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation (with Printable Travel Checklist)

Africa Packing Lists , Asia Packing Lists , Central America Packing Lists , Europe Packing List , Ireland Packing List , North America Packing Lists , Oceania Packing Lists , Packing Tips , South America Packing Lists

Packing List for Vacation

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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!

The Ultimate Packing List

This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:

  • Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
  • Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
  • General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

  • Packing List For Luggage
  • Packing List For Clothes
  • Packing List For Toiletries
  • Packing List For First Aid Kit
  • Packing List For Makeup
  • Packing List For Hair and Grooming
  • Packing List For Electronics
  • Packing List For Backpacking Gear

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

  • Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

Click here to subscribe

The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:

  • you can write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
  • you can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
  • and most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item

Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!

  Packing List by Categories

Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.

domestic travel packing list

Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Airplane Outfit: Top , Bottom , Shoes

I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.

packing-list

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.

If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel .

You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.

A purse for travel is a must-have for a day spent sightseeing, here are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing which day bag to join you on your next trip!

packing-list

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!

  • Packing Cubes for Clothes
  • Packing Organizer for Accessories
  • Packing Organizer for Electronics
  • Toiletry Bag
  • First Aid (if applicable)
  • Document Holder
  • Other Organizers (as needed)
  • Daypack/Personal item
Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest! 

Watch this video to discover TFG editor’s travel capsule wardrobe must-haves, that are versatile, chic, and timeless

No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?

domestic travel packing list

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe . These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

packing-list

Best Selling T-Shirt: L.L. Bean Pima Tee

In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel . It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.

  • Dress (or other) 1
  • Dress (or other) 2
Visit our  travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants , stylish travel dresses , and the best  cold weather items .

packing-list

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.

You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.

packing-list

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel .

For underwear , we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear .

  • Outerwear 1
  • Outerwear 2
  • Sleepwear 1
  • Sleepwear 2
  • Underwear 1-10
Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

packing-list

Leith Dress  ( similar) |   Naot Sabrina Flat Sandal |  Rebecca Minkoff Backpack | Sunhat

Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.

packing-list

Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk 4 Charcoal Comfortable Sneakers

For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.

We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats , walking shoes , travel sandals , hiking shoes , waterproof boots , ankle boots , and more.

  • Purse – Day
  • Purse – Night
  • Sunglasses Case
  • Watch (or Travel Clock)
  • Gloves (if applicable)
Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.

“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.

packing-list

Best Selling Toiletry Bag: eBags Pack-it-Flat Hanging Toiletry Kit

Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.

  • Conditioner
  • Leave-In Conditioner
  • Soap/Body Wash
  • Deodorant/Antiperspirant
  • Body Moisturizer
  • Face Moisturizer

Optional Toiletries:

  • Baby Powder (hot climates)
  • Pumice Stone
  • Hair Styling Product
  • Female Urinal Device
  • Menstrual Cup
  • Toilet Paper
Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip .

packing-list

First Aid Kit (optional)

Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit ”.

  • Prescription Medication
  • Contact Solution (if needed)
  • Pain Relievers
  • Travel-size Tissue Packet
  • Digestion Tablets
  • Upset Stomach Medication
  • Allergy Pills
  • Motion Sickness Tablets
  • Antibacterial wipes/gel
  • Bug Repellant (Deet-Free)
  • Travel Size Sewing Kit

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.

  • Eyebrow Pencil
  • Eye shadow palette
  • Lipstick/lip gloss
Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.

domestic travel packing list

Hair / Grooming

Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.

packing-list

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.

  • Travel Size Hair Brush
  • Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

  • Travel Size Blow Dryer
  • Travel Size Hair Dryer Brush 
  • Travel Size Flat Iron 
  • Travel Size Curling Iron 
Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

domestic travel packing list

A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!

Electronics

The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.

packing-list

International Universal Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad . Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.

  • International Travel Adapter
  • Phone Charger
  • Phone Cover
  • Camera Charger
  • Camera Battery 
  • Camera Memory Card
  • Camera Cover
  • Memory Stick (with important info)
  • e-Reader Charger
  • e-Reader Cover

Optional Electronics:

  • Tablet Charger
  • Tablet Cover
  • Laptop Charger
  • Laptop Cover
  • Laptop Case
  • Screen Protector
  • Keyboard Protector
  • External Hard Drive
  • External Hard Drive Cord
  • Portable Power Bank
  • Portable Power Bank Cord
  • Music Device
  • Music Device Charger
Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight .

packing-list

Editor’s Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (similar)

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.

Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.

  • Sleeping Bag Liner
  • 2 Travel Locks
  • Travel Towel
  • Swiss Army Knife
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Packable Tote
  • Mosquito Net
  • Pillow Case
  • Laundry Bag
  • Laundry Line
  • Travel Pillow
  • Disposable Poncho
  • Travel Size Umbrella
  • Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)
If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post. If you’re staying at hostels, read this post. If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.

domestic travel packing list

With the exception of your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.

  • Passport Copy
  • Passport Holder
  • Boarding Pass
  • Itinerary (some airlines require this printed when you have to check in in-person)
  • Visas in passport (if needed)
  • Immunization Records (if there are health requirements such as yellow fever)
  • Emergency Cash in USD (enough for one full day)
  • Credit Cards
  • Drivers License / Alternate Form of ID
  • Language Guide
  • Notebook (to note addresses in paper, not phone)
  • Pen (to fill out immigration forms)
  • Emergency Contact Info
  • Travel Insurance
  • Copies of all travel documents (in memory card, USB stick, or stored in email)

Watch the video above for tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.

Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings, such as using one of these anti-theft devices.

domestic travel packing list

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

Anti-theft products  that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!

packing-list

Best Selling Anti-theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Black Messenger Bag

While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse  in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.

  • RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
  • Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)
Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling .

packing-list

Pre-Trip Checklist

These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.

  • Call banks to inform of travel plans
  • Immunizations
  • Check weather at destination
  • Check baggage restrictions
  • Check visa regulations
  • Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)
Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.

The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!

The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:

packing-list

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes . When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint .

The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.

Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!

Destination Packing Lists

We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!

domestic travel packing list

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!

For destinations, please read:

  • Europe Packing Lists
  • Asia Packing Lists
  • Africa Packing Lists
  • North America Packing Lists
  • South America Packing Lists
  • South Pacific Packing Lists

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packing-list

I hope you liked this travel packing list of things to bring on vacation! Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

96 comments.

Noreen

Your packing lists and tips are the best! It’s so easy to forget an important item, and your lists help avoid that. Thanks!!

Stacy L. Riggle-El Sabbagh

Is ultimate packing list is what help me to prepare our very first 17 day trip in Europe (Italy and Spain). I’ve recently sent it to Friends to share the wealth! I absolutely love the Travel Fashion Girl site!

Vera Kozlowski

Love this whole blog, this entire post is very helpful all being in one post! Thank you for helping us travel!

Andrea Peterson

The idea of packing cubes was not foreign to me; however, after reading all these tips and putting them into practice, my hubby and I were both able to travel 3+ weeks in Europe last Fall with only an AWAY carry-on suitcase and a backpack that I ordered specifically to fit under the seats on European inter-company smaller planes. Thanks so much for saving us, as we will likely never travel the same as we used to!

Sandra Cooper

Thank you for creating these packing list. They are very helpful.

Laura Austin

This list has been incredibly helpful!! I have always maintained a customizable packing list that I came up with years ago, but this took my list to the next level and was significantly helpful in keeping myself organized for a recent 2-week, backpack-only, trip I just took to Europe! I have traveled to 35 countries and continue to return back to TFG for fresh tips, outfit ideas, the best packing tools, and lots of other helpful information! Thank you so much to TFG and this wonderful community of women!!

Leslie Knight

Super helpful info- I added a bunch of tops and dresses to my Amazon list. I’ve already got many of the items you recommend- one of my favorites is the electronic cords organizer. I never leave home without it!

Karen Granade

Your packing lists are fantastic! I don’t have to think so hard! Thank you!

Tracey

I have used these packing lists time and time again. They have helped me pack exactly what I need and cut down on items I won’t need. I used to be an overpacker but these lists have solved that problem!

Nancy S

I have been traveling carry-on only for years now (whether it’s a hardside bag or my backpack), and I’m always looking for new capsule wardrobe ideas!

robin trubitt

I printed out the packing list for Italy the beginning of this year as I prepared for my May departure. I kept it in my purse at all times so no matter where I was, I had it to refer to when I was I happened to be in a store. It was super helpful in keeping me focused. Thanks !

Karin B.

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

Dawn Stear

Love, love, love these checklists! I used one on my two week trip to Italy last May and it was so helpful. Planning to use one again on our girls trip to London and Paris in April. 🧳

Cindy Sievers

I have always used a packing list. It helps me know that I haven’t forgotten something and not over pack. I love the Compass rose packing cubes…I bought a set for hubby and myself. We use them a lot. Thanks for all of your tips and info…now to just get a trip planned!!

Janet Hartleben

I love everything about travel fashion girl, but having these already made printable packing lists are the best thing ever! They are going to come in really handy as I’m preparing to take my two teenage granddaughters to France in March and this will give them a good idea of what they need to pack and how to do it. Of course I will supervise lol!

Sabrina

Thanks so much for sharing this list! It was so helpful for my recent trip to Panama. The Leith dress was a great addition to my travel and everyday wardrobe!

Barbara

I’ve been working with fine tuning my packing list for years. If my husband says, “do you want to go to …?” I can be fully packed for any type of trip in 20 minutes.

Tara Brown

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Alicia Simpson

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

Wendy B

Never j ew what a packing cube was until I read your site. You are a life saver! Now I can’t live without them!

Adriann Griffith

Love lists to help me feel confident that I’m ready! Your lists and advice are so helpful.

Lashelle Rice

These lists are so helpful and love the packing cube video.

Patricia

I love your blogs, you do amazing research have have great practical tips on how to best travel.

I went to Italy in the spring and the first thing I did before getting ready to go was read your blog to see what I should get that would help make it the best trip.

I also try to travel with only carry-on luggage, so you helpful suggestions are amazing.

Linda Murphy

I have used these packing list as the basis for my upcoming trip to England. This is the most prepared and least anxious I have ever felt about packing for a big trip. I love that the list comes with shopping links/reccomendations as well as reccomendations on where to pack it. If you’re short on time – the most helpful shopping list was the toiletry list. It provided great suggestions on how to stay within the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines even if you are planning to be away for a lengthy trip! Thank you!!

Stephanie Council

I love this blog!! These packing lists are a lifesaver!!

Deb Claxton

Thanks TFG for the best Packing Checklist! I use it everytime I go! And this year, 2022, I’ve been making up for not being able to go for the past two years. After a cruise in March and a month in Hawaii in the summer, I’m now packing for a Baltic cruise after a couple of days in London. The destination lists for London, Finland, Norway, etc. have been so very helpful, too. I’m pretty confident that I’ve packed what I’ll need. Haven’t yet tried carry-on-only and probably never will, but I’m pretty proud that I put at least 5 items back into the closet instead of in my suitcase this time!

PD

While researching for our two-week vacation to Munich, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I discovered your web site. I am so happy I did! Since we were traveling to so many places in a relatively short period of time, and using a carry-on and personal bag only, it was essential that I pack efficiently. Your capsule wardrobe and packing cubes were a game changer! I admit I fudged a bit and threw in a couple of extra items but never even wore them. Thank you so much for the great information!!

Christina Sebert

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

Kalene

I honestly go over this packing list every time I go on a trip! So helpful. Also a side note, their subscription emails are amazing. Simply the best.

Trixie

When I was finally able to travel internationally, this list was what I used to help me organize. Congratulations on 10 years and all you e accomplished- and thank you. 🙂

Stephanie

Love, love, 💕 the packing lists! I’ve been using them for several years. I started prepping for my 3 week trip to Peru in September. Thank you for the guidance, recommendations and inspiration!

Rochelle S

This spreadsheet is my favourite clothing packing list, and one I recommend to everyone for carry-on only, or even just lightening the load on small checked bags. It even works for kids’ packing. Excellent, comprehensive resource, thank you for creating it, and sharing it with us all!

Deborah

Thank you for these wonderful suggestions!!! Going to London in early October and the printed checklist will be very handy. Thank you!!!! Love those pants!!!! I need them!!!!

Camryn

Love this resource!! Seriously has been so helpful for planning a 2 week Europe trip! Also was so helpful for my week in Montana during the winter! Highly recommend!!

Patricia Thum

I love all your travel tips! I will definitely be referring to your packing list for my upcoming trip to Spain and Portugal.

Tammy

The packing cubes are a great idea, but what about wrinkles? And is a steamer able to work on an adapter only?

Alex

Hi Tammy, one of the keys to avoiding wrinkles is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and to use the bundle wrapping method inside the packing cube! You can find more tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/

Linda Wray

I love your blog❣️ I just returned from Portugal and met a new friend who turned me onto your emails. Please subscribe me, as I’m not on Social Media. All my best, and safe travels.

Hi Linda, just gone ahead and subscribed you to our newsletters. Hope you had the most incredible time in Portugal!!!

Jean Sutherland

Thank you, your information has been most helpful. Amazon.ca doesn’t seem to have any of your recommended items for sale at present, especially The Comnpass Rose Slim Cubes. I used them on our last cruise and it made packing easy before, during and after the Cruise. Would recommend this to any traveller. M. J. Sutherland

That is so amazing to hear thank you Jean!!! Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again 😢

Sara

Hey, I’ve really enjoyed your site and recommendations on traveling lightly. I’m not sure if you’re still active on here but the link to your packing checklist seems to be broken.

Hi Sara, I am really sorry about this, we are having some problems fixing this issue on the blog.

If you would like a copy of our packing list, please email us at [email protected] and we will send you a copy straight away.

Laura Thiel

I pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested.

Hi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂

Heather

I’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack. I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try).

Theresa Wilson

Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂

alex

Thank you Theresa!

Liz Dorrington

Hi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx

Hi Liz, read this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-singapore-vacation-tips-from-local-fashion-blogger/

Sharon Knerr

I love detailed lists – helped me stay organized when I travel. Thank you for this!

Patrizia

Great post! I will go to Sicily soon and this look like a great way to start organizing my trip.

Thanks Patrizia!

Michala Martin

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

Francesca

As always I love reading all your post, but this one is probably my favorite!! It’s packed with really helpful tips, it’s something I always come back to, and is in many cases encouraging…. Lol but that couldn’t be any more true!!

Yay!!! Glad you enjoyed it even more than the others 🙂

Meghan

This list makes me happy! Im an excel spreadhseet list make and this is perfect for a base to customize. Thanks!

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

Julie Knowles

So in going through the Ultimate Packing List (thank you for this by the way), I have a question about the clothes the traveler is wearing! I assume that’s included in the 10 items, but per the packing list, they are packed in something. You don’t get an extra set of clothes on top of the 10 items, right?? 🙂

For my Russia packing list (pre-UPL), I listed out all the items and then listed what was going in my suitcase, what in my backpack and then finally, what I was wearing! 😀

Great job for your trip to Russia Julie! That’s right, no extra clothes for travel – they are included in the ten items. However, ten is a good number to use as a guideline but it’s okay to go up or down a few items, too 😉

Gayle Arebalo

Hi, this is so helpful for me so I do not forget anything. The older I get and the more I travel, forgetting something seems to happen far too often. But not any longer!

Glad you like it Gayle!

Nadja Jackson

I have been using these packing lists this Spring and Summer and they have totally changed the way I plan and pack for a trip! I love being able to customize it. The main thing this did was make me think about WHERE I wanted to put everything. I then also added a little “how many times I wore it/used it” column so I could analyze at the end as well and start planning for the next trip. Thank you so much for these organizers!

Wow that’s a great idea, good job Nadja!

So excited to use this packing list for my three big trips next year: mediterranean cruise, Machu Picchu and Cairo/Nile Cruise/Jordan!!

AMAZING destinations!

David

Great packing list post, we just spent 4 weeks in Alaska and now we are off to FiJi. Your packing list is a huge help.

That’s awesome David, thanks!

Valerie - Trusted Travel Girl

Great post! This is very helpful for people who need help on what to pack!

Thanks Valerie!

Isabelle Rowsey

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

Hi Isabelle, they are on the way towards your inbox right now!

Megan K

Thank you for making this packing list editable! I’m particularly loving the “How to Pack It” column, which is missing on so many other lists. It really helps me figure out which packing cubes/organizers to use, how to place it in my bag and also to mentally include clothing I’ll wear while traveling.

Thanks Megan! Glad you liked the “How to Pack It” column 🙂

Helene

Excellent packing list!! This will be very useful for me!

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

Justine

Right now I am packing for my trip to Italy and I am using only your list. It is amazing. For the first time I feel that I do not overpack, that I have everything what I really need, and that I won’t forget any stuff. Your blog has changed completety the way I pack. Thank you 🙂 xoxoxo

Yay! That’s great to hear, thank you Justine!

Leah

Great post! One question: Do the clothing lists include items you’re wearing, or just what’s in your bag? Also, I always bring dental floss; in addition to keeping my gums healthy, it’s awesome for sewing!

They include all clothes including what you wear on a flight 😉 Dental floss is a good add!

Kim

Perfect timing for my trip to Europe next month. Thanks!

Glad you like it Kim!

Kim

Wonderful, detailed list. I recommend your site to anyone asking about travel and packing light. Especially friends who want to travel and still look fashionable!

Thank you Kim 🙂

Heather Cozad Staley

This is so comprehensive! I plan on referencing this next time I travel. Thank you for the breakdown.

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

Brandie Back

I am going to Italy in October and I am so excited to find this blog at travelfashiongirl.com. I have been stressing about what to pack. Now, I have a detailed list to follow and I couldn’t be more happy! Thank you TFG!

Barb K

Love it! You thought of everything! Will use this on my next trip (instead of recreating a new list which I seem to always do). Thanks!

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

Brooke H

Love having all of this info in one post! Thanks for the tips!

Gail

While I enjoy all your posts, this one is SERIOUSLY the best I’ve seen on your site – or any site, for that matter! Thanks so much for gathering this all together for your readers. You’ve thought of everything!!!

Koni Briggs

Ah-maz-ing! Just what I needed!!!

Brittany Baugher

There’s a lot of different types of products that need to be stored during travel, but finding those emergency items is what’s important when you’re out there all prepared! These print-out lists are exactly what I’ve been using for myself since high school, & for nostalgia sake, that original template I put together & taped over to “laminate” it, is still there slipped behind the zippered space in my overall bathroom bag. Thanks for sharing your process! It seems like a lot of work that many individuals have appreciated finding!!

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domestic travel packing list

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 and the Best Vacation Packing Tips (Printable)

Ultimate Travel Packing List

Before taking a vacation, it’s a good idea plan. In addition to planning your itinerary, you also need to figure out what you will pack. Taking the time to sort out what you need to bring before you leave is an excellent way to prepare well for your trip. If you haven’t traveled in a while or you feel like you’re always missing essential items when you travel, this travel packing guide may help. Are you taking a trip soon? Here’s what you need to know before you pack for your next trip or vacation.

Table of Contents

What to Consider Before You Pack

Before you begin packing, it’s best to think more about the trip you will be taking. After all, not all trips are the same, and some trips may require different items.

Here are some things to consider:

  • What bags to bring: Your travel plans and airline’s baggage policy may dictate what bags you bring. Knowing what bags you plan to bring before you begin packing is a must. That way, you can strategize and not overpack based on the luggage space available. 
  • Number of travel days: You want to have plenty of clothes and essentials for your entire trip. Make sure that you pack plenty of items for the number of days you plan to travel. If you’re staying in a home rental with laundry facilities, you may be able to pack less and do laundry during your trip. If you prefer to pack light, check to see if you’ll have access to laundry facilities or if there is a laundromat near your accommodation. 
  • The weather situation: You want to make sure that you pack clothes that will be comfortable for the weather. Check the expected temperature, see if there will be rain or snow, and let this information guide you when packing. If you don’t pack appropriate clothing and gear, you may have to spend money when you arrive or risk being very uncomfortable. If you have room, bring a compact umbrella.
  • The type of trip you plan to have: Your planned activities and travel style will also dictate what you need to pack. If you’re all about comfort and hope to lounge around a lot, you may not need to pack many dress clothes. If you’re an adventure seeker who plans to participate in recreational activities, athletic attire and appropriate shoes are necessary. 
  • What you can buy at your destination: Some items may make more sense to buy at your destination. For example, if you’re only bringing a carry-on bag, you might decide to buy a bottle of full-size sunscreen after you arrive. When creating your packing list, note items that you can easily buy at your destination to avoid wasting space.

The Vacationer Tip

Review your airline’s baggage policies before packing. Here are polices for some of the top airlines.

– American Airlines Baggage Policy – Delta Air Lines Baggage Policy – Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy – United Airlines Baggage Policy

How to Decide Which Items to Put in Which Bags

When it comes time to pack for your trip, take some time to think about which bag each item will go in; for example, if you’re planning to check luggage, some things may make more sense to go in your checked bag rather than your carry-on bag. Additionally, some items may not be allowed in your carry-on bag—such as full-sized liquid products.  

If you take any medication or have other essential items that you’re packing, those items should stay close to you—such as in a carry-on bag or personal item, like a backpack or purse. Checked bags may get lost or delayed, and you don’t want to be without essential medications or other necessary items. If you’re packing medications, the TSA recommends they be clearly labeled. 

As you pack your carry-on bag, It’s also a good idea to bring at least one change of clothes with you. If something happens to your checked baggage, you’ll be thankful that you have some clothes to change into after traveling. 

If you’re traveling with a laptop or another electronic device, like an iPad, keep those items in an easy-to-access place (like upfront or in a laptop pocket). These items will need to be removed from your carry-on bag, purse, or backpack during security screening. If they’re not accessible, it will take you longer to get through security, and you’ll hold up the line.

Further Reading: Carry-On Essentials for Flights and Best Carry-On Luggage

Packing Liquids

As you prepare for your trip, don’t forget to consider which liquids you’ll need to bring. If you’re bringing some checked luggage, you’ll need to consider which liquid items will go in your checked bag vs your carry-on luggage. 

If you plan to pack liquids in your carry-on bag, they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less. They also need to fit in one quart-sized resealable bag. If you’re traveling with multiple people, each person can have one quart-sized resealable bag with appropriately sized liquids. Ensure that all containers are sealed well, so you don’t have a mess all over your suitcase and belongings. 

When you go through the security screening process at the airport, you’ll need to remove your bag of liquids and place it in a bin; You do not have to remove your liquids if you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry . To conserve space, focus on packing liquids that you need. Most hotels and some home rentals provide essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Before packing, check to see what will be provided at your accommodation.

Packing Shoes

Most people plan to bring more than one pair of shoes when traveling. If you have several pairs of shoes that you want to bring, you may be worried about wasting space. But if you’re strategic, you can pack several shoes and make it work. 

One way to save on space is to use the empty area inside your shoes to your advantage. You can fill your shoes with smaller items such as socks, underwear, and belts. If you’re worried about dirty shoes, put disposable shower caps on the bottoms of your shoes. If you don’t have these, you can use smaller plastic bags to protect your clothes from dirt.

Ideas to Maximize Space

If you’re looking to maximize the space that you have available, you may be wondering how to pack your items to save room. Here are some techniques that may help: 

Packing cubes: Some travelers use packing cubes for their clothing items and accessories. These cubes can help by slightly compressing your items, so they take up a bit less space in your bag. If you’ve never tried packing cubes, it may be worthwhile to give them a chance. 

Rolling instead of folding: Another option to consider is rolling your clothes. This does take time,  but you may find that you’re able to fit more items in your bag this way. Just make sure that you remember to roll your clothes back up when packing up to head home. 

Choose versatile clothing items: You can also save on space by strategically choosing which clothing items you bring. Consider packing versatile clothing items that work well for multiple outfits. As an example, packing clothing with neutral colors is a great idea. You can wear items multiple times without it looking obvious. Doing this will make it easier to mix and match outfits, and you may find that you can pack fewer items. 

Buy some items at your destination: If you only have so much space to work with, buying some things at your destination may be the best bet. Make sure that you consider cost and availability before choosing to do this.

Suggested Vacation Packing List

Having a packing list can help you make sure that everything you need makes it into your suitcase. If you’re forgetful, printing out your list and checking off each item as you pack is recommended. Here’s a suggested packing list to follow as you prepare for your next trip:

Here are our recommended clothing and apparel items to pack.

Shoes and Accessories

Here are our recommended shoes and accessories to pack.

Here are our recommended toiletries to pack.

Miscellaneous

Here are our recommended miscellaneous items to pack.

Comforts for travel (suggested to pack in personal item)

Here are our recommended comfort items to pack.

Tips for success

With proper planning and good organization, you can ensure that you pack everything that you need for your upcoming trip. The following tips can help you have more success: 

  • Make a packing list and check each item off as you pack . It may seem silly, but this practice can help you avoid forgetting must-have items. You’ll be glad that you have what you need.
  • Start with your must-have items. As you begin to pack, start with essential items. This way, you don’t forget to bring what you truly need. 
  • Keep items packed up. Once you check an item off your list, ensure it stays in your packed bag. If you remove something and forget to make a note, you may end up leaving without it. 
  • Don’t forget masks. When traveling during the pandemic, you’ll want to bring plenty of masks. Mask requirements vary by destination, and you want to make sure that you have what you need before you arrive. 
  • Know your airline’s baggage rules. If you bring an overweight or too-large bag, you may get stuck paying extra fees. Check your airline’s sizing and weight rules before you begin packing, and double-check the weight once your bag is all packed up.  
  • Consider wrinkles when choosing clothing items. Some fabrics are more wrinkle-resistant than others. If you don’t have access to an iron or a dryer, (I’m not the only one that de-wrinkles my clothes this way, right?!) try to pick materials that are less likely to get wrinkled. 
  • Wear bulky items. Bulky items take up a lot of space and weight. If you plan to bring a bulky winter jacket or boots, for example, wear them on the plane. You’ll have what you need without taking up space and weight in your bag. 
  • Do laundry while traveling. If at all possible, do laundry while traveling. Whether you stay in a home rental with laundry facilities or stop at a laundromat, this can help reduce the number of clothes you need to pack.
  • Don’t overpack. It can be easy to overpack accidentally. Focus on what you truly need instead of bringing “maybe” items.
  • Ensure your house is in order. Before leaving, make sure all of your lights are off and your alarm system is set if you have one. Other things to do include watering your plants, taking out the trash, setting automatic pet feeders, and notifying your credit card companies of your travel.

Yes, you can travel with liquids. Liquid containers must be no larger than 3.4 ounces, and all liquid containers must fit in one resealable quart-sized bag. If you want to bring larger liquid items, they must be packed in checked baggage.

Experiment with different methods of packing. Some travelers find success using packing cubes, while others find better success rolling their clothes. The more you experiment, the better you’ll get at maximizing space.

Make a packing list and check each item off as you put it in your bag.

Consider keeping electronics, valuables, money, your passport, essential medicine, and a change of clothes with you. If your checked baggage gets lost or is delayed, you’ll have what you need with you.

While you can do this, it’s recommended that you don’t put valuables in your checked baggage. Instead, place them in your carry-on bag or personal item. Putting valuables in a purse or backpack under the seat in front of you is best because it will be near you. If you place valuables in a checked bag, they could be stolen.

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Don’t leave your packing until the very last moment. If you do this, you may be unprepared once you arrive at your destination. With proper planning, packing can be easy and quick. Follow the tips above for the best success as you begin to pack for your trip. See our beach vacation packing list for more specifics if you will be vacationing near the ocean or a lake.

Natasha Gabrielle Headshot

By Natasha Gabrielle

Natasha has been a freelance writer since 2015. She specializes in writing travel and credit card rewards content. When not busy writing, she’s either dreaming up her next credit card rewards redemption or traveling the globe. Her goal is to encourage more people to experience the world around them while making smart money choices.

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The travel packing checklist you need before you head off on your adventures!

Travel Travel Inspiration Travel Tips & Hacks Travel Checklist

Be it an international tour, a domestic vacation, or a cross-state road trip, there are certain essentials that you must carry with you. Lucky for you, we have curated a comprehensive international travel packing checklist that covers everything - from your important travel documents to the last-minute toiletries we all forget to pack, we've got you covered!

Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist

Here's our downloadable travel packing checklist.

Travel Packing Checklist

Travel Documents Checklist

This is the most important document checklist that you will need to adhere to. Ensure that you have all the travel documents on you wherever you go. Keep your passport handy for security checks and whenever possible, try to carry a printed copy of your ticket to ensure a smooth vacation.

  • Passport/Visas
  • Personal ID/Student ID card
  • Boarding Passes
  • Vaccination Certificate
  • Loyalty Program cards, if any
  • Hard cash, at least a $100
  • International Credit/Debit cards
  • Health insurance cards/documents
  • Travel insurance information
  • Reservations and itineraries
  • Emergency contacts list (keep this in your wallet/purse)
  • Copies of all documents in case you lose your wallet

Tips While Traveling with Kids

What are some additional packing tips to keep in mind while traveling with children? Let's find out.

travel with kids

Pack a thermometer in your carry-on luggage

nasal spray

Carry saline spray with you. This helps clear their throat and nose.

baby changing

Use airport bathrooms instead of airline bathrooms. They are larger and cleaner.

Clothing Checklist

For the best travel experience, you need to dress according to the climate, terrain, and temperature of the place rather than dressing fancy or sophisticated. This means you need to pack smart and choose clothes that can be used on more than one occasion.

We all know how important it is to pack the right clothes for our trip. In the following list, we include items you may need to make a run to the market for!

PRO TIP: Packing a lot of unnecessary clothes is a common mistake made by a lot of people. Be smart and carry only 2-3 types of clothes or clothes for a specific occasion; don’t stack your bag with avoidable clothes as it increases your luggage weight dramatically.

Business Travel Tips

What are some items you must not leave off your checklist, especially if you're going on a business trip? Let's find out.

business travel

Carry only your major cards and a small amount of local currency in your purse/wallet

umbrella

Always carry a travel umbrella and a raincoat with you

breath mints

Bad breath can seriously dampen a strong first impression. Never forget breath mints

Toiletries Checklist

Pay extra attention to your toiletries checklist. There is nothing more fretful than forgetting your waterpik or extra contact lens case home and having to find them in a foreign land.

Here is a list of things you may need to run to the supermarket for:

What to Include In Your Med Kit

  • Analgesic (pain relief) medicine/Aspirin
  • Antihistamine tablets for bites, stings or allergies
  • Cold and flu tablets
  • Cough medicine
  • Motion sickness tablets
  • Throat lozenges or drops
  • Antiseptic solution for cleaning wounds
  • Antiseptic ointment to apply to a wound
  • Insect repellent
  • Diarrhoea medicine
  • Antifungal or antibacterial cream
  • ORS sachets
  • Regular prescription medicines

Electronics Checklist

In an increasingly digital world, it is important that you do not forget your personal digital devices or their chargers. More often than not, most of your tickets and credit card transactions are on your phone and you do not want to make the mistake of not packing your phone’s charger and being stranded in an unfamiliar place.

Here is a list of digital devices and some miscellaneous items that you need to carry:

  • Laptop & charger
  • Smartphone(s) & chargers
  • iPad/tablet
  • E-reader/Kindle
  • Adaptor/converter
  • Fitbit/ Apple watch
  • Hair styling tools (straightener/curler)
  • Shaving tools
  • Travel speakers

International Travel Tips

Traveling internationally? Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

international travel

Consider travel insurance and make sure it covers emergency medical aid or evacuation

mobile hotspot

Look up interantional phone plans for your current carrier

covid safety regulations

Study up on your destination and keep constant tabs on the current regulations

Carry On Essentials

Packing your carry on is always tricky- there's always one thing you might forget. It is a skill that takes time to master. Whether you're lugging a heavy shoulder bag or wheeling around a small luggage piece, it's the inside that counts; here are some of our must-have travel item suggestions for your carry on:

PS: You might see some familiar items from previous lists. Remember, this is just a reminder of the things you can include in your carry on.

  • Passport + Visa
  • Printed itineraries & flight tickets
  • Printed accommodation details
  • Local currency
  • International credit card
  • Travel & health insurance
  • Hand sanitizer/spray
  • Extra face masks
  • Laptop/tablet with charger
  • Smartphone with charger
  • Ear buds with charger/earphones
  • Portable charger
  • Medications with prescriptions (if not over-the-counter)
  • Reading glasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Neck pillow
  • Eye mask & ear plugs
  • Tissues & wet wipes
  • Change of clothes
  • Light jacket
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste (if overnight flight)

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A true son of God's Own Country, Febin comes from where the magnificent Kerala Backwaters drift. After 16 years in Kerala, he left to explore what India had to offer. He has been to almost all states of India and is always looking forward to his next trip with a semi-packed bag. If he is not traveling, you'll probably see him engrossed in PC games, Netflix or Spotify, in that order.

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Packing For Vacation & Vacation Packing List Tips: The Ultimate Travel Checklist

Whether this is your first trip or you’re a seasoned globetrotter, it’s always helpful to have a rundown of the travel essentials items you may want to pack for your vacation. you know, a comprehensive international travel checklist that covers everything from travel must-haves to a list of toiletries—and so much more..

Bookmark this travel packing list because you’ll want to refer to it as your trip gets closer. It’ll serve as a tool to tell you exactly what to pack, whether you’re planning an international trip, a weekend vacation, or even a long-term round the world adventure. It will help you make sure you've thought of everything you might want to pack—those must-have items you need to enjoy your vacation and travel essentials that make your trip run more smoothly.

Not only that, but we’ll help you choose the right travel bag, and learn how to organize it so everything perfectly fits in your bag. Below is a list of gear and clear steps to take before every trip. Look no further—we have your ultimate packing list!

Ultimate travel packing checklist

  • Button-up shirts
  • Lightweight jacket
  • Winter jacket

Undergarments

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Dress shoes

Accessories

Active wear.

  • Athletic clothes
  • Athletic shoes
  • Hair brush or comb
  • Skincare products
  • Shampoo & conditioner
  • Shaving kit
  • Contact lenses
  • Nail clippers
  • Hair products
  • Perfume/cologne

Travel health

  • Pain reliever
  • Fever reducers
  • Cold medicines
  • Diarrhea/laxative medicines
  • Personal prescriptions
  • Throat lozenges
  • Sunburn relief
  • Insect repellent
  • Antibacterial ointment
  • Hand sanitizer
  • First aid kit

Everyday basics

  • Phone and charger
  • Water bottle
  • Travel pillow
  • Camera and charger
  • Electric converters & adapters
  • Travel journal & pen
  • Reading materials

Travel gear

  • Main travel bag
  • Pack-It™ packing cubes
  • Comfort & security items
  • Day bag & travel wallet
  • Passport/visa
  • Driver’s license
  • Health insurance documents
  • Transportation tickets
  • Emergency information
  • Reservation information
  • Hotel information
  • Cash & credit/ATM card
  • Guide books & maps
  • Copies of tickets/passports

DOWNLOAD THE TRAVEL PACKING CHECKLIST

Step 1: choose the right travel bag for your trip.

Before you even begin deciding what to pack for your vacation, it’s important to find a travel bag that's as versatile as you need it to be, while also fitting all your stuff and being easy to carry. Consider the length of your trip, as well as if it’s an international vacation , if you’ll be using budget airlines , and your primary activities—all of these considerations impact which bag is best for your trip.

Wherever you're planning to go, pick luggage that is versatile, lightweight, and big enough to hold all your travel essentials. The most important decision you'll make is (as far as luggage is concerned) is buying a bag that has an awesome warranty . Traveling with a piece of luggage with a broken wheel, handle, or zipper is the absolute worst! Brands that back their gear with stand-up warranties build that promised durability into their gear.

  • Rolling Luggage : Let’s face it. Wheels are nice. There’s no need to carry all your gear on your back or via a duffle bag if you know you’re going to be traveling in a city where there are paved roads and sidewalks. You may also want to consider a  bag with off-road wheels , making them extra durable for trips even when there isn’t a smooth path.    
  • 4-Wheels : As you fill up your wheeled luggage, weight can become a bit restrictive—especially if you have to walk long distances. Consider 4-wheels to keep the weight off your wrist and effortlessly roll your bag by your side.
  • Duffel Bag : These are simple, lightweight, and Eagle Creek’s duffel bags are crazy durable. Sling it over your shoulder, or put some wheels on it and get on your way. These are the most versatile travel solutions you can get, with everything from classic duffels  to convertible backpacks, wheels , and more.    
  • Wheeled Backpack : If you’ll be going through different types of terrain, or switching from airports to cobblestones, having a bag with the option to roll it or carry it like a backpack or duffel is really handy.
  • Travel Backpack : If you know you don’t want the extra weight of wheels, traveling with a classic travel pack is going to mean hands-free mobility and ultimate versatility.
  • Carry-On : Whenever possible, travel with carry on luggage . It means you can save time at the airport , save on check-in fees, guarantee the airlines won’t lose your bag, have everything you need with you at all times, ensure you don’t have to wait at baggage claim…the list goes on and on.

Travel Tip : Picking the right travel luggage is an important step not only on this trip, but all of your future trips as well. Use the  Eagle Creek’s Buying Guide for luggage , travel packs, carry-ons and duffel bags to easily assess exactly the right bag for your travel style and situation. You may need more than one bag in your collection, but you can narrow down the list of choices based on what will be the most useful to you most of the time, and what best fits everything you need to pack for your vacations.

STEP 2: ORGANIZE YOUR TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

If you plan to do lots of different types of activities on your vacation, you’ll have a fair amount of gear you need to pack into your suitcase. Keeping everything organized can be a challenge. One of the best things you can do when you're packing for any trip—especially one that requires packing lots of layers—is to use packing organizers .

The Eagle Creek Pack-It system is all about keeping your suitcase organized with packing organizers so that you know exactly where everything is, and so your clothing can be arranged and compressed , easily allowing you to fit more in your bag. Why spend your time packing and unpacking when you can quickly unpack by sliding your organizers directly into hotel drawers, and pack up quickly, getting seamlessly from one place to the next without having to rearrange your entire bag every time?

Wondering how to use packing cubes ? Basically, keep your clothing organized in compartments based on outfit type or activity type. Zippered packing cubes come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to keep your bag neat and provide quick access to all the different things you'll need during your trip. You can use compression sacs or cubes to reduce the volume of your clothes by up to 80%—his is especially convenient for bulky items such as sweaters and jackets. And folders are great for keeping dress clothing nice, neat, folded and wrinkle-free .

Another way to use packing cubes is to organize your travel packing list by item type. Keep all of your shirts together, all of your pants together, all of your underwear together, and all of your jackets together. If what you’re going to do each day is still up in the air, or you like to pick out your clothes the day of rather than having your outfits planned ahead of time, you’ll know exactly where to find each item of clothing. Shop all packing cubes now .  

Basic clothing packing list:

  • Lightweight clothing that can be layered
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Sweaters or fleece jacket
  • T-shirts and tank tops (be respectful of the culture you are visiting)
  • Pants and/or shorts
  • Belt ( check out this one for a ingenuitive money protection option)
  • Socks (wool socks are best for hiking and camping )
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Rain jacket, windbreaker or umbrella
  • Pajamas/sleepwear
  • Sunglasses and glasses case
  •  Dresses and/or skirts
  • Jewelry (organize in a small cube or sac )
  • Hat or sun visor
  • Scarf or bandana
  • Swimsuit or swim trunks (consider a clean/dirty organizer)
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Travel speakers
  • Travel pillow, eye mask, and ear plugs
  • Electric converters, adapters, and organizers
  • Travel apps that will help with language, directions, money conversion, and digital journaling

You’ll want to pack smart (not lots of) clothing options if your trip will take you to a variety of places, or conversely if you will be navigating off the beaten path. Having a packing list with several options doesn’t mean you’ll need to over-pack. (And in fact, you shouldn’t.) Just pack smart. Include clothing that can be worn on your daily adventures and then dressed up slightly with a different pair of shoes and a scarf. Maybe a dress that becomes a skirt, or comfortable travel pants that can be dressed up for a day at the market. Also consider clothing with SPF or mosquito repellency if you’ll be in environments where that would be beneficial.

Travel Tip : Creating a well-organized bag before you leave can transform your travel days.  Learn more about choosing the right packing organizers to pack the variety of everyday basics you’ll need on your international or weekend vacation.

STEP 3: PACK YOUR TOILETRY BAG

If you’re carrying on, keep your  toiletry bag  light and  TSA-compliant . The  TSA’s 3-1-1 rule  makes it easy to remember: liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container, and they must be stored in one quart-sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag. To make this as easy as possible for you, we have a toiletry set that includes four  3-ounce silicone bottles  in a quart-sized clear pouch that’s wipeable and has a water resistant zipper. Still need more help? Read the  TSA rules regarding what you can pack in a carry-on bag.

Basic Toiletry Bag Packing List 

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
  • Hair brush or comb, hair ties, barrettes/bobby pins
  • Shampoo and conditioner (Dr. Bronners is a good option all-in-one option for hair care, face wash, laundry and more.)
  • Sunscreen and face lotion with SPF
  • Makeup packed in a washable sac
  • Face wash and/or makeup remover wipes and Q-tips
  • Night time moisturizer/lotion
  • Lip balm with SPF and lipstick or lip gloss
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Extra contacts, solution, and contact case
  • Glasses and prescription sunglasses
  • Prescription medication with the label/script so that you can refill if needed and not be questioned by TSA.

Toiletry Bag Extras

  • Cologne/perfume
  • Personal mini mirror
  • Hair products like hairspray, hair gel, and beard oil
  • Clothesline and detergent
  • Shaving kit and extra razors
  • Sewing kit/clothing care kit, stain remover
  • Facial tissues and/or toilet paper
  • Travel Towel
  • Nail clippers and tweezers (optionally, scissors, which must be in checked luggage)

Basic First Aid Kit Packing List

As soon as you decide to travel internationally, check the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website  for comprehensive information on travel vaccines, medicines, and local travel advice. Whether you decide to get vaccinated or not is your decision, but many vaccinations require administration two months before travel begins. So get informed! And if an emergency does happen, here’s everything you should know about  travel clinics  and  handling medical emergencies abroad .

Although you can buy pre-made travel health kits online, it’s just as easy to use small,  water-resistant packing sacs  as the container for your kit, then construct one from your medicine cabinet at home, only securing those items you may not already have on hand.

  • First aid kit  (bandages, gauze, adhesives, etc.)
  • Personal prescriptions (copies of scripts)
  • Pain and fever relievers (also children’s strength if you are traveling with kids)
  • Thermometer
  • Cold medicines and throat lozenges
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Allergy medicines
  • Hydrocortisone cream/antibacterial ointment
  • Multivitamins
  • Insect repellent/mosquito net/sting reliever
  • Motion sickness pills or bands
  • Altitude sickness pills (if you are planning to hike in higher altitudes)
  • Medicines and vaccinations specific to the region/activity

Additional Health Items to Pack

  • Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
  • Prescriptions in original packaging (you’ll want to make sure you have these in your carry-on bag just in case something were to happen to your checked luggage)
  • Sleeping medicines
  • Glasses and glasses case (email yourself a copy of your prescription, just in case)

Travel Tip : Your under-the-seat bag can hold a lot! Some travelers can even pack an entire trip in a small bag—at the very least learn  how to put your under-the-seat bag to good use  when packing for international travel.

STEP 4: PREPARE YOUR PERSONAL ITEM  CARRY-ON  BAG

The next thing you’ll want to do is prepare a packing list especially for your personal item carry-on bag with anything that you’ll want with you on the flight. It’s always a good idea to make sure you have an outfit (or two) and a few essential toiletries in your personal item just in case your luggage is lost.

If you’ll be traveling around to multiple destinations, make sure this  small bag  has items to  keep you comfortable  on any train, boat or bus rides. It's always nice to have a bag that's easy to access so you don't have to get into your luggage each time you need your eye mask. But remember, you’ll be carrying all of this, so keep it light.

We recommend you consider using a small  daypack ,  shoulder bag  , or  waist pack  as your personal carry-on item. Here are some good things to include in your carry-on bag packing list:

Basic Technology Packing List

  • Mobile device and charger
  • Laptop, iPad, or E-reader and charger(s)
  • Headphones (consider noise-reducing headphones if you're sensitive to sound)
  • Camera and GoPro/video camera, memory card, and chargers
  • Electrical converters and adapters
  • Electronics organizer

Basic Packing List for Comfort + Entertainment

  • Travel pillow, blanket, eye mask, and ear plugs
  • Travel journal  and pen (it’s awful when you forget your pen!)
  • Books and magazines
  • Deck of cards and travel games
  • Chapstick and lotion (t’s dry up there)
  • Water bottle (you’ll need to fill it up once you get through TSA)
  • Guide books, travel guides, maps, language guides, etc. (if you will need any of these upon arrival at your destination, put it in your carry-on)

STEP 5: COLLECT IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, CASH, AND CREDIT CARDS

Start by collecting all of your important documents in a travel document organizer. ( This travel organizer  holds a passport, ID, credit cards, coins, documents, a boarding pass, and a pen!) By bringing all your important information together, this will help ensure you have everything you need to get from one place to the next.

Not sure what you need? Here’s your international travel checklist, document-wise.

Paperwork to Pack for International Travel

  • Passport/visa(s) (not sure if you need a travel visa? Check  here .)
  • Personal ID/Student ID card 
  • Frequent flyer card(s) and other loyalty program card numbers (ex: hotel chains and AAA)
  • Cash and credit card(s) (call your credit card companies before you travel to inform them of your travel, otherwise they might turn them off to prevent perceived fraud. Also consider how  travel hacking  can save you money on the road!)
  • Health insurance cards/document(s)
  • Travel insurance information
  • Reservations and itineraries (print them and save them electronically for easy access)
  • Hotel and/or tour contact information
  • Transportation tickets (plane, train, bus, car, etc.)
  • Emergency contacts and important addresses
  • Copies of all these things in case you lose your wallet
  • Guidebooks and maps

Travel Tip : As soon as you book a trip, it’s a good idea to double-check that your passports and IDs aren’t expired, and that they will not expire while you are traveling internationally. If your traveling as a family, here’s exactly  how to get a passport for your kids . You’ll also want to inform your bank if you’re traveling abroad so they don’t assume fraudulent activity and freeze your credit card. Also consider emailing yourself a copy of your passport, driver’s license, medical cards and itinerary, so if anything happens to them you’ll be able to access them online.

STEP 6: CONSIDER TRAVEL SECURITY

In most large cities, travelers should always be on the lookout for pickpockets. The easiest way to keep your belongings safe is to keep them hidden and close to you. One way to do this is to stash your valuables underneath your clothing. Another way is by locking your bags closed and using reflective accents to help folks see you at nighttime.

Safety travel essentials checklist:

  • Money belt  or hidden pocket
  • Neck wallet
  • Undercover Bra Stash  for credit cards and cash only
  • Incognito  All Terrain Money Belt  which looks like a real belt!
  • Luggage  Travel Lock
  • Reflective clothing and  luggage accessories
  • Bring a headlamp or mini flashlight, better to be safe than unprepared

Wearing a money belt or neck wallet lets you keep your valuables close to your body and away from prying hands. Review all the different styles  here  to choose what works best for you and the type of travel you’ll be doing. You may also want to choose an option with RFID protection. RFID protection keeps all passports with an RFID chip (issued after 2006) and credit cards/debit cards safe while travelling. How? It’s simple. Identity theft can occur when someone is able to “read” through your purse or pocket via the microchip, which has personal information stored on it. By using an RFID blocking technology, your personal information is protected.

STEP 7: PREPARE YOUR HOME

If you’re going on an extended trip, it’s essential to get your home in order before you go. Here are some simple tasks to think through before you head to the airport. (And yes, this travel checklist also includes thinking through home care.)

 Before You Leave to Travel Checklist

  • Have the post office hold your mail
  • Stop newspaper delivery
  • Set up an email autoresponder (unless you plan to be connected)
  • Arrange for the care of pets, lawn, and plants
  • Pre-pay your bills
  • Prearrange school absences for children and get any home study assignments required
  • Empty refrigerator of this that will expire
  • Unplug appliances
  • Turn off heater/air conditioner
  • Turn down water heater
  • Turn off washing machine taps
  • Lock all doors and windows
  • Set up timed light system
  • Store valuables in a safe place
  • Leave house key and trip itinerary with a trusted friend
  • Leave flight and hotel itineraries with a relative
  • Reconfirm/check-in online with airline before you Uber, train, or shuttle to the airport

Travel Tip : If you will be gone for more than 30 days, it’s a good idea to check with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance for specific instructions.

Wherever you are headed, you’re going to have a great time! Just make sure you think through your list of activities beforehand so that you’re able to bring everything you need and pick the right  luggage . And  pack light  if you can using this ultimate packing checklist. It always helps with mobility. And remember, you’re a traveler: Respect the people and places you go to visit. Respect their customs,  tip  accordingly, try and learn their language, and truly  immerse yourself in the culture .  Travel changes us  to be better than we were by opening our eyes and giving us newfound respect.

Best of luck! Travel well. And  DOWNLOAD TRAVEL PACKING CHECKLIST.

GET MORE PACKING ADVICE!

Want to learn more about how to pack for a specific type of trip? We’ve got more packing advice from travel experts:

Packing Lists by Location:

Amazon ,  Argentina ,  Australia ,  Belize ,  Cambodia , Canada ,  Central America , Colombia ,  Croatia ,  Cuba , Ecuador ,  El Salvador ,  Europe ,  France , Greenland ,  Italy , Ireland , London , Mexico City ,  New York City , New Zealand ,  Patagonia , Peru ,  South Africa ,  Southeast Asia ,  Uruguay , Washington, D.C.

Packing Lists by Activity:

Active Summer Vacation , Antarctic Cruise , Beach Vacation ,  Camping Trip Essentials ,  Caribbean Cruise ,  Cold Weather Getaway ,  Family Road Trips ,  Family Cruise ,  Inca Trail Hiking ,  Girls' Getaway Weekend , Going to the Gym ,  Kayaking Trip , Long Car Ride ,  Mountain Biking Trip , Moving to College ,  Music Festival ,  National Park Vacation ,  Packing a Travel Kitchen , Rainy Season Travel ,  Road Trip Essentials , Round the World Trip ,  Spring Break ,  Yoga Retreat ,  Weekend Sailing Trip ,  Working Overseas

Discover the Eagle Creek Travel System

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Inside the Travel Lab

Printable Holiday Packing List PDF: The Only Checklist You Need

July 10, 2022

Perfect packing list with free printable

Save time and be prepared with the ultimate holiday packing list PDF. It’s the ultimate packing checklist to make sure you have everything you need. 

Table of Contents

Your Printable Holiday Packing list PDF

Download your free travel packing checklist and find the ultimate in packing lists for every trip. We have you covered, based on years and years on the road. Solo travel, business travel, family travel and couples. All sorted. Bon voyage! #travel #checklist

Here’s the ultimate printable holiday packing list PDF to suit every situation.

Seriously. We’re assuming nothing and cover luggage, visas, medication and what to wear while travelling and I’ve organised it into a streamlined system so no-one gets overwhelmed.

I’ve also put links to anything you may need to buy next to the travel tips and gathered them together on a single page in  my Amazon Travel Shop (if you buy something that way, it costs exactly the same to you but I may earn a small commission. Hurrah!)

To get your printable copy of this holiday packing list, simply pop your details in the form below.

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

  • I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
  • My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
  • Out of the big accommodation machines, I use TripAdvisor and Booking.com the most
  • I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
  • Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
  • Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
  • Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.

The Ultimate Travel Checklist and Packing List with downloadable free printable

How to Use the printable holiday Packing List PDF

Travel checklists are supposed to make things easier, not harder. So here’s how I’ve arranged things. 

  • The essential sections come first. You need these for all trips. 
  • They are organised in time order: ultimately, you can buy toiletries at most final destinations. You cannot fix missing medication or visas. 
  • Specialist travel checklists come at the end . These cover road trips, flying with babies, hiking holidays and so on.
  • You can download and print out the printable holiday packing list PDF. It’s not just a printout of this article; it’s a checklist. This article supports the printable checklist. It provides the background detail, so to speak.

Sunrise over fields in the ultimate travel checklist

Who is this Travel Packing List for?

I’ve really tried to make this accessible and useful, while also streamlined.

The ultimate holiday packing list works for men and women, international and domestic travel, travel to Europe and beyond. Certain sections link out to more hyper-focused lists, such as the cabin luggage essentials or what to pack for a walking holiday .

But don’t get too bogged down with this. 

Get reading the list and get packing!

Your Printable Holiday Packing LIst: The Checklist Overview

Medical supplies.

Health should always come first. If travelling abroad or for any extended period of time, book an appointment with your doctor or nurse to check whether you need any vaccinations, antimalarial medications or a back up plan for your prescription supply. 

When it comes to packing, here are the essentials for any holiday packing list:

  • Prescription medication – include a copy of the prescription, contact details for your doctor and pharmacy, a sharps box for any needles, and a plastic, airtight container to keep tablets from getting crushed.
  • Paracetamol for all purpose pain and inflammation relief.
  • A Travel First Aid Kit containing compeed blister protection, sticking plasters, antihistamines, antiseptic wipes, gaviscon, loperamide, sterile gauze and tape at a minimum. You can buy prepared first aid kits here.
  • Sunscreen – pack at least factor 30 SPF and consider special sunscreen for your face. Children should have factor 50 SPF.
  • Insect repellent, bug spray and bite treatment. I like this new, non-cream Bite Away gadget , which decreases itch and pain with a neuroscience-focused blitz of heat. You can buy one on Amazon here.
  • Prescription glasses, sunglasses or contact lenses, with spares and your prescription.
  • Travel sickness pills and bracelets if you need them.

Travel guide organiser as part of a travel checklist

Travel Documents and Holders

A good rule of thumb is to have a copy of everything on your phone and stored in the cloud. For really important documents, such as passports, make sure someone has a copy who is staying at home. 

Make sure to add to your holiday packing list:

  • Passport and visas – you can arrange for a company to do this for you or complete the process yourself. Have a secure but quick access section for them. I use a plastic A4 folder for this. 
  • Travel insurance documents. Forward a copy to someone at home and have a copy in your suitcase as backup. 
  • Car documents if required (see this  road trip essentials checklist.)
  • Contact numbers for key people and companies.
  • Flight details, hotel details, phrases for your destination
  • Paperwork for any medication, you may need to show your prescription.
  • Paperwork for a child travelling with you who does not share the same family name.
  • Loyalty cards and frequent flyer numbers.
  • Travel money. Don’t take too much cash with you, though!

Travel Money Tips

Ooh, travel money deserves an article on its own.

Here’s the short version:

  • Cash  – take some cash with you in the local currency but no more than you’d need for 1 – 2 days.  It’s also helpful to have some US dollars in small denominations to help you get out of any emergency situations. Avoid changing money at the airport or in large hotels as the rates are usually really high. If possible, book cash in advance by  following the advice from Money Saving Expert here.
  • Credit cards – do take a credit card with you, with maybe one backup, but leave the rest at home. Contact credit card companies in advance so that they don’t block your card while you’re away. Put one into your checked luggage and one into your personal item. Set up text alerts for unusual spending so that you can cancel them the moment someone starts to use it for something dodgy.

Document Holders

The jury’s out on whether you need a money belt. These lightweight fabric holders slip beneath the waistband of your trousers and protect some of your money and important documents from being stolen by pickpockets. 

I would say that in most places in the world, you don’t need them. However, they are really useful if you will be sleeping anywhere in public (think long coach journeys, train journeys and backpacking) and in high crime areas. I would also suggest you also carry a wallet anyway. 

Yes, savvy criminals know that tourists wear them but so what? I’ve found them useful over the years in the situations I mention above.

Chic Document Holder

These days, though, I rarely need a money belt. Instead, I use a “grown up” document holder that helps to keep everything together. The ideal one should be zippable so that things don’t fall out and have space for a pen (for all those immigration forms and luggage labels.) As a bonus, it should have a wrist strap so that you don’t lose it at the airport among all the other commotion. 

I’m not a fan of passport holders as I don’t really see the point. You have to take your passport out at checkpoints and, well, it doesn’t really matter if the picture rubs off the outside of the passport ;-)

Plastic Document Holder

Yes, plastic has a bad name at the moment but at least these plastic wallets are reusable. Instead of carrying everything in the “nice” document holder, I put the essentials in there I’ll need for that day and everything else into an A4 plastic wallet that can be stashed in  my cabin luggage or suitcase.

Travel checklist luggage wicker basket

Essential Luggage

Now we’re on to the fun part! Wait, not everyone finds testing out different bags or suitcases fun?! Weird.

Never skimp on having decent luggage. The fallout (quite literally) just isn’t worth it from substandard stuff. 

But what kind of luggage you need depends on your trip. I’ve written a guide to the best cabin luggage for all occasions here  for when you are travelling hand luggage only.

For checked-in bags or when you aren’t flying, your options are:

Only for the truly fit and strong. And only useful if you will be squeezing bags into small spaces on trains, small safari planes that won’t accept anything else, or if you plan on travelling anywhere where you will need to carry your luggage across sand, cobbles or anything else too uneven. 

I used backpacks for years and my back and shoulders have never really forgiven me. Don’t feel you need to. Most of the time, a wheelie is fine!

Backpack and Wheelie Combo

I tried one of these during my transition from backpack to wheelie. They are a useful idea but the zip up wheeled part does add weight and is quite uncomfortable to carry. The best I found was the Osprey Farpoint Travel Backpack.

Wheeled Luggage

Yes! Four wheels are better than two. Hard cases are good for travel to countries where you can’t be sure how secure your luggage is going to be. Soft cases are good for squeezing into car boots and trunks or trains in Europe. My favourites include the Samonsite wheeled luggage series for hard cases and the Osprey Transporter 120 for more of an adventure wheelie.

This is like the backpack only worse! Unless you are a tall, young, strapping, fit and able adult, avoid this. If you are, the Northface Duffel bags are very popular.

Minimalist wardrobe when packing to travel - clothes hanging on wall

Your Travel Wardrobe Holiday Essentials

Start by sketching out each day of the trip, with a note on what you will be doing and wearing in the day and evening for each day. This should jog your memory for any unusual activities that require special gear and help make sure that you neither overpack or underpack. 

Think layers and think capsule wardrobe.

Travel Checklist Essential: A Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is just a fancy name for having clothes that you can mix and match and which all go together. This takes a bit of preparation.

It’s good to choose one neutral colour, one brighter colour and then one accent colour.

I tend to wear black, blue and yellow. They go together well and mix and match nicely. I also look out for things which don’t crease and which don’t need special care on the road.

Watch out for the full article in weeks to come, but in the meantime,  check out this brilliant wardrobe starter guide from Putting Me Together.

Any trip longer than 10 days will require some laundry while you’re away, so don’t try to pack something for each day of a three week trip. 

Here’s the clothing holiday packing list:

  • Underwear – one per day up to 10 days
  • Socks – one pair per day up to 10 days
  • Tops/T shirts/shirts- one per day up to 10 days
  • Trousers – 2-3 per 10 days. One pair if hot weather destination.
  • Shorts and skirts – 1 per 10 days. 2-3 if hot weather destination.
  • Pullover/cardigan/jumper/jersey – one per five days
  • Shoes – one snazzy pair, one casual pair. Both suitable for walking in.
  • Dress – take out one top for each dress you pack.
  • Do you need a blazer/jacket/ suit for this trip?
  • Do you need any special sports clothes or beach wear?
  • Do you need ties, jewellery, hats or hair accessories? If the answer isn’t a definite yes, it’s a no…
  • Sleepwear if you wear it ;-) Or if you’re staying at your in-laws…
  • Coat – ideally lightweight and low maintenance.

Inside tip: always make sure you have at least one outfit that covers your shoulders and ankles and one pair of shoes that aren’t flip flops. That covers most dress codes for temples, restaurants and so on.

Travel Gadgets

Another fun part! While many travel checklists include all kinds of travel gadgets that you don’t actually need, here are the bare essentials. With, well, OK, a few nice things throw in. 

  • Travel adapter . 
  • Multi plug port to help charge things from one adapter
  • Noise-cancelling headphones
  • Laptop or tablet and case (if required)
  • Charging cables for all gadgets
  • Travel camera
  • Spare batteries or hard drives to store photos
  • Torch or head lamp
  • Cable organiser

Pills on a hand

Travel Toiletries

Most of these are pretty generic but if you have something that really does the trick then make sure to stock up in advance. You can always pour it into smaller bottles if you need to.

Here are the ultimate holiday packing travel essentials for your toiletry bag:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Hairbrush and any gel, mousse, brush, what have you
  • Moisturiser
  • Sunscreen (in case you missed it higher up!)
  • Mouthwash, dental floss, any other dental things
  • Shower gel (ditch this if you’re staying in hotels)
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Tweezers, nail clippers or nail scissors
  • Ear buds and ear plugs
  • Make up and make up remover
  • Feminine hygiene products like tampons and sanitary pads if required
  • Razors and shaving cream
  • Hairbrush, hairbands, other hair accessories

Travel packing tips and hacks

Travel Hack Gear

  • Swiss army knife
  • Food – dried packets of couscous, nut grain bars and rice cakes help out in emergencies.
  • Tissues and toilet paper
  • Packing cubes
  • Travel pillow
  • Book or magazine
  • Safari vest for tight carry on situations. Fill the pockets with heavy items to extend your allowance. 
  • Eye mask and ear plugs to help you sleep on a plane.
  • Scarf. Doubles up as a pillow, covers shoulders or hair if needed and ties your luggage together if things break.
  • A spare bag (folding, to fit in extra luggage or serve as a daypack while you are away.)
  • Glasses case if you plan on using contacts on the ground.
  • Travel umbrella
  • Hand sanitizer.

Travel Packing Checklists for Special Situations

Travelling with children requires a section of its own. So I wrote one! Find the family travel tips and advice here. In particular, look out for the best baby travel gear (and the things you don’t need) and a handy list of travel toys for toddlers.

Barbados beach scene

Travel Checklist for Beach Holidays and Vacations

Yes, it’s your vacation packing list. For beaches and warm spots, make sure to pack:

  • Swimwear x 2
  • Lightweight cover up outfit
  • Flip flops or sandals
  • Lightweight bag you don’t mind getting sandy
  • Plastic bags to carry home wet swimwear. Or are more eco-friendly, reusable wet bag like this.

To delve into this in more detail, check out our packing list for Greece and this article on sustainable beach trip tips.

Travel Checklist for Sports

  • Footwear – specialist shoes and boots or socks
  • Layered sports clothes

See also this packing list for a walking holiday and this one for a cycling trip.

Business Travel Checklist

  • Business cards
  • Workout clothes – inc swimwear and goggles if hotel has pool
  • Lint roller if appearance matters
  • Suit holder
  • See also these business travel safety tips.

Off the Beaten Path Checklist

For the truly ultimate packing list, you’re going to need to think of every eventuality. If you’ll be heading far from shops and supplies, then think of:

  • Toilet paper
  • Small bottle of laundry detergent
  • More advanced first aid kit: antibiotics, sterile needles, sterile syringes.
  • Water bottle
  • Wet wipes and hand santizer
  • Travel alarm

More Useful Packing Lists

Get ready for your next adventure with our handy, focused packing lists. 

  • Road Trip Essentials: Packing for the Perfect Road Trip

Outdoor Adventure

  • What to wear in the Amazon Rainforest
  • What to wear for a hiking or walking holiday
  • The only packing list you need for cycling holidays
  • The handy glamping packing list you can print off and keep

Other packing lists

  • The best cruise packing hacks that you find anywhere else
  • What to pack for the Dominican Republic
  • Your perfect packing list for Greece
  • The best campervan accessories in the UK

Don’t forget your travel journal! Here are some creative travel journal ideas to get you started.

Download Your Free Printable Holiday Packing List PDF Here

Bookmark this free printable travel packing checklist on pinterest..

Arcane Osprey Tote Bag in Cafe

1 thought on “Printable Holiday Packing List PDF: The Only Checklist You Need”

I usually forget to pack something, but I’m going to keep this checklist for the next time I travel. Cheers!

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How to Make a Travel Packing List with Day One

Having a travel packing list for your next trip is easy with day one’s packing list template..

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  • March 04, 2024

Home » Day One Blog » How to Make a Travel Packing List with Day One

Are you traveling this year? Whether your plans include a cozy weekend on the couch at your parents’ house the next town over, or a warm weather vacation somewhere far away, don’t let the hustle and bustle of preparations lead to a forgetful moment. Picture this: an icy beverage on the beach or the warmth of family, and the laughter echoing in the air—only to realize you forgot to pack sunscreen or a great book.

The most obvious benefit of having a travel packing list is you’re less likely to forget the essentials. But there are other benefits, too: you’re less likely to overpack, which means spending less money on baggage fees and less energy on lugging around an oversized suitcase full of items that you don’t really need at your destination anyway. Plus, planning your packing list can help you get even more pumped for your trip, maximizing the fun and excitement of travel, no matter your plans. 

In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect travel packing list with the Day One Journal app, ensuring that your holiday travels are not only memorable, but also free from the anxiety of leaving essentials—and thoughtful gifts—behind. So, grab your virtual pen and let’s dive into the world of efficient packing and stress-free travel!

Step 1: Open a New Journal and Select Templates

To get started with your travel packing list, download the free Day One app . Navigate to the templates part of the quick start menu in the entry editor.

domestic travel packing list

Step 2: Scroll to “Travel,” and select “Packing List”

From the journal templates library, scroll to the “travel” category. These journal templates allow you to document your adventures and experiences, and also provide example checklists for your trip, like a travel packing list.

The travel packing list template in the Day One app

Step 3: Select “Save to My Templates”

This option is best if there are certain items you’re sure you’ll want to pack over and over again. You can also select “Use Now” if you’re just trying to create a one-time travel packing list.

domestic travel packing list

Step 4: Start Editing

From here, you can delete or revise categories (for example, you could add a “gifts” section), add and delete items, and even add links to your travel packing list.

domestic travel packing list

Step 5: Get Packing! 

Alright, we got you this far—now you’re on your own for folding and cramming your suitcase. Don’t forget to document your trip and capture your favorite memories in your travel journal .

Safe travels, and happy journaling!

Start Journaling Today in Day One

The Day One journaling app makes it easy to build and maintain a daily journaling habit. Daily journaling reminders , daily writing prompts , and journal streaks are designed to help keep you motivated and consistently journaling.

About the Author

Phoebe Kranefuss is a freelance writer and marketer based in Madison, Wisconsin. She’s a lifelong journaler and (almost) daily writer. She studied English Literature at Bowdoin College, is currently pursuing her MFA in fiction at University of Wisconsin–Madison, and has written for and worked with healthtechs including  Monument ,  NOCD , and more.

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domestic travel packing list

Ultimate packing list

Travel essentials for your adventure.

Whether it’s packing too little, packing too much, forgetting the swimsuit or even the passport, most of us are guilty of a few baggage bloopers. If you’re a seasoned traveller, chances are you’ll have your packing down to a fine art (although, even the pros can make mistakes). 

If it’s your first time travelling or if you’re packing for the whole family, then a travel packing list like this can go a long way to help.

We’ve divided this ultimate packing list into sections, so you can organise your luggage with confidence, prepare your travel documents and enjoy a relaxing and stress-free holiday. 

Travel packing tips

Well-packed bags don’t happen straight away. Before throwing anything and everything into the old suitcase in the corner, consider the following steps.

Choose the right luggage

When it comes to travelling in comfort and security, not any old bag will do. Here are six quick tips for preparing the perfect bag for your adventure:

  • For your checked luggage, find a sturdy suitcase with durable zips and wheels. Flashy designer suitcases may look great but can attract unwanted attention from thieves.
  • For your cabin luggage, find a lightweight bag with a hard surface to protect it in the overhead compartment. Remember that there are strict laws around what you can pack in cabin luggage .
  • If you’ll be using this as your day bag while out and about, consider finding a theft-proof bag  with slash-proof material, hidden compartments and locking zips.
  • If you’re an adventure traveller, an all-in-one travel backpack can be a versatile option and save you from grappling with a wheeled bag in more rugged terrain. Look for breathable, flexible, weather-resistant and durable options. Remember, you get what you pay for.
  • As many well-seasoned travellers know, using packing cubes to compartmentalise your luggage is a great way to save space and keep things tidy. 
  • Quality travel insurance is the best way to truly protect your belongings. With our International Comprehensive  policy, you can pack with confidence knowing your valuables are protected against loss, damage and theft.

Ultimate travel packing tips for luggage

Checked vs carry-on luggage

It’s important to know the rules surrounding checked and cabin luggage before you start packing. There are strict laws on what you can pack in cabin luggage, which can even differ from airline to airline. As a general guide, the following items can’t be taken in your carry-on bags:

  • Sharp objects (such as razor blades, scissors, and knives)
  • Objects potentially used as a weapon (such as hammers, cricket bats and golf clubs)
  • Flammable goods (such as aerosol containers and lighters)
  • Liquids exceeding a certain volume
  • Some food and drink.

Always check with your airline for an exhaustive list of what can and can’t be taken on board, and if in doubt, leave it out.

Pack your valuables in carry-on luggage

While it’s important to adhere to the airline’s rules on checked and carry-on bags, it’s also important to remember that your travel insurance also determines where you pack your valuables. Many travel insurance policies won’t cover your valuables if they’re damaged or lost while in checked luggage. For this reason, you should pack high-value items like electronics and jewellery in your carry-on bags.

Overseas travel packing checklist

Now that you’ve got the right luggage, the right technique and know the difference between checked and carry-on bags, it’s time to start packing. We’ve divided this travel packing list into sections and included a few insider tips along the way.

Travel packing checklist

Clothes to pack

Clothes suitable for climate and culture.

Before emptying the wardrobe into your suitcase, ask yourself if the clothes are suitable for your destination. Three pairs of jeans may be overkill for your Fijian adventure  and revealing swimwear may not be appropriate in conservative countries. Research your destination’s climate, cultural norms and customs before you start packing. 

Clothes and accessories for day-to-day

  • Casual shirts
  • Comfortable everyday shoes
  • Prescription glasses and case.

Clothes and accessories for the beach

  • Sunscreen/zinc for the face and body
  • Swimwear/cover-up
  • Sunglasses and case
  • Thongs or sandals
  • Beach towel
  • Wetsuit/rash top.

Tip : Some sunscreens contain ingredients that are damaging to coral reefs. In fact, Hawaii has banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate; two damaging chemicals commonly found in sunscreen. If in doubt, buy your sunscreen at your destination rather than bringing your own.

Travel packing tips for the beach

Clothes and accessories for cool weather

  • Rain jacket/coat
  • Travel umbrella
  • Windbreaker
  • Snow/rain boots
  • Winter sports gear.

Clothes and accessories for adventure travel

  • Sturdy enclosed shoes
  • Loose-fitting long-sleeved t-shirt
  • Quick-drying shirt and shorts
  • Waterproof socks
  • Mosquito net
  • Thermal gear for cold climates.

Clothes and accessories for eating out

  • Dress pants
  • Button-up shirt
  • Formal dress
  • Purse/wallet
  • Jewellery (if valuable, wear it on the plane).

Toiletries to pack

  • Dental products (toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss etc.)
  • Aftershave/perfume
  • Shampoo/conditioner
  • Body wash/soap
  • Cleanser, toner, moisturiser
  • Cotton wool
  • Lip balm (handy for the plane)
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Contact lenses and solution
  • Shaving gear
  • Hair styling tools and products
  • Emergency toilet roll
  • Nail clippers, tweezers, scissors
  • Laundry kit.

Health & medication to pack

Staying fit and healthy overseas should be a top priority for all travellers. Whether you have important prescription medications or simply want an effective first-aid kit for your adventure, health and medication items form an important part of your travel packing list. 

  • Prescription medication
  • First aid kit
  • Cold and flu medicine
  • Pain relief medicine
  • Diarrhea medicine
  • Motion sickness tablets
  • Sunburn gel (such as aloe vera)
  • Insect repellent
  • Hand sanitiser.

Tip : There are strict rules on travelling with prescription medication, like carrying it in its original packaging accompanied by a doctor’s certificate. Check with your airline before packing your bags. Always check smartraveller.gov.au and follow their vaccination recommendations.

Electronics to pack

From booking hotels on the go to travelling with thousands of books in a single small device, technology has made travelling easier than ever before. Don’t forget the following items to enrich your trip:

  • Mobile device and charger
  • Laptop/tablet and chargers
  • Camera, memory card and charger
  • Protective cases
  • Local power adaptor for your destination
  • Noise cancelling headphones
  • eReader and charger
  • Portable phone charger
  • Travel apps downloaded to your device (such as language guides).

Tip : Pack your electronics in your carry-on bag, as we cannot cover these items if they are damaged or lost in your checked luggage.

Travel documents

Imagine landing at a foreign airport and noticing that every other passenger on your flight is holding a printed visa that you didn’t know you needed. Getting your documents in order is a critical step of your travel planning, so don’t forget these essentials:

  • Passport and photocopies
  • Local and international driver's license
  • Cash and credit cards
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Visas (if applicable - always check entry requirements on Smartraveller well before your departure date)
  • Booking confirmations and itineraries (accommodation, tours, rentals, transport etc.)
  • International SIM card
  • Emergency contacts list
  • Embassy contacts list
  • COVID-19 documentation, such as negative test results and vaccination certificate if required.

Tip : Many countries require that your passport is valid for at least six months after your intended return date. Ensure you research this 'six month rule’ on smartraveller.gov.au to avoid unwanted surprises at immigration.

Keeping photocopies of your travel documents lets you protect the real thing and acts as a backup if something is lost. It’s also a good idea to upload these photocopies to a secure online storage service, like Google Drive.

Safety and security

  • Luggage lock
  • Money belt.

What to pack for COVID safety

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, travellers have added a few more items to their essential packing list. Stay healthy and follow local laws with simple items like:

  • Hand sanitiser
  • Anti-bacterial wipes
  • Rapid antigen tests
  • Negative test results if required
  • International vaccination certificate if required.

Tip : It goes without saying that COVID-19 restrictions vary widely around the world and are frequently changing. Refer to Smartraveller for up-to-date guidance for your destination.

Carry-on luggage at the airport

Other things to do before you travel

As romantic as it seems, travelling is rarely just “get up and go.” The following checklist items are essential before boarding the plane:

  • Inform your bank of your travel plans
  • Exchange currency
  • Register your travel with smartraveller.gov.a u
  • Share your travel plans with friends and family
  • Pre-pay any bills that will arrive while travelling, where possible
  • Secure your house and unplug appliances
  • Have a neighbour or relative collect your mail (an overflowing letterbox is an invitation for thieves)
  • Stop any regular deliveries while you’re away (such as newspapers or food boxes)
  • Check-in for your flight online 
  • Plan how you’ll get to the airport (check what terminal you need to go to).

Tip : Events such as volcanic eruptions and snow storms can be unpredictable. That’s why it’s important to visit smartraveller.gov.au just before your trip. Search for your destination to see the latest travel advice and safety tips. A ‘do not travel’ or ‘reconsider your need to travel’ advice level may mean you have to delay or cancel your travel plans.

Finding the best travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is one of the most important things to pack for any holiday. Whether you’re embarking on a round-the-world backpacking adventure, or taking the kids overseas for the school holidays, it’s important that you’re protected if the unexpected happens.

The content of this article is general and provided for information purposes only. Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) doesn’t guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness or currency of any article.

This article may contain hyperlinks to other websites owned or operated by third parties, or references to third party products or services. SCTI isn’t responsible for, and makes no recommendation about, the content or accuracy of any third party website, or for the suitability or performance of any product or service. The inclusion of a link in this article doesn’t imply that SCTI endorses the website or third party product/service.

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I Used to Travel for a Living - Here Are 16 Travel Essentials That Are Always On My Packing List

Pack like a pro with these amazon travel essentials that will keep you prepared for anything your trip throws at you..

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We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

I'm the first to admit that I haven't always been a great packer . Not only did I live in constant fear of having to pay extra for an overweight bag, but I always arrived to the airport or train station with a sneaking suspicion that I left something really important behind. But that all changed when I landed a job where I was required to travel several times a month. Whether it was a two-day trip or a week long stay, I made it my mission to pack like a pro , which not only means being organized but also being prepared for any inconveniences I might face along the way.

I'm pleased to report that I not only accomplished that, but I also discovered some must-have travel essentials that everyone should pack. Whether you're travelling via plane, train, or car, I rounded up all of the Amazon travel essentials that you should definitely add to your packing list.

From a toiletry bag that RHOBH star Kyle Richards never travels without to depuffing under eye patches and a portable phone charger that doesn't require any cords, keep reading for the 15 best travel essentials that are always on my packing list, from someone who used to travel for a living.

Holii Travel Pill Organizer

This pill organizer is perfect for travel, since it has several compartments to separately store medications, vitamins, or pain relievers and won't take up much space. I've also used the bigger compartments for hair ties, bobby pins, and other small items. It has 14,00+ 5-star ratings in five colors.

iWALK Portable Charger

A portable phone charger is a no-brainer, but the reason this one is so great is that it doesn't require any extra cables since it pops directly into your phone's (or AirPods') charging port. It's compact, lightweight, and rechargeable, plus it comes in six colors.

Travel Bottles for Toiletries

Even if I'm checking a bag, I still like to transfer my shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and facial cleanser into TSA-friendly bottles like these. This set includes four leak-proof silicone bottles stored in a zippered pouch. Choose from 12 colorways.

Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes

My life changed for the better when I discovered packing cubes, which keep your suitcase so organized. This highly-rated set includes four different sized cubes, toiletry and accessories pouches, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag. Not only will your suitcase be neat, but you'll also be able to easily find what you're looking for.

Tide Stain Remover for Clothes

At some point in your trip, you're bound to stain an outfit, which is why I keep a Tide pen on me at all times. That way, you can get rid of stains ASAP so you can re-wear clothes instead of tossing them in your laundry bag.

MLVOC Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Whether you're traveling by train, plane, or car, a travel pillow is a must-have if you're trying to take a nap. This memory foam one has contoured support that reviewers love, which is why it's garnered over 22,300 5-star reviews. As an added bonus, it comes with a carrying case, ear plugs, and a sleeping mask.

grace & stella Award Winning Under Eye Mask

These individually packaged under eye masks will help to de-puff skin after long flights and early mornings. A best-seller, these under eye masks are packed with moisturizing niacinamide and hyaluronic acid and deliver a cooling sensation that depuffs and feels so soothing. No wonder they have 14,600+ 5-star ratings!

Touchland Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer Spray

This goes without saying but you'll be encountering a lot of germs on your travels, which is why it's essential that you travel with hand sanitizer. Not only are these from Touchland aesthetically pleasing with delicious scents, the spritz is super convenient and won't leave your hands sticky. They come in multipacks with different scents.

Washable Reusable Gel Lint Roller

This tiny but mighty lint roller is ideal for travel since it doesn't take up a lot of space (you can even toss it in your purse) and is reusable. Just pop out the sticky ball, rinse it under water, and it's good as new.

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag

Rather than stuffing all your toiletries into a bulky makeup bag, try this best-selling organizer that folds open to reveal tons of zippered compartments. The best part is that it can be hung on a towel hook for easy access. Not to mention, it's a favorite of RHOBH's Kyle Richards.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Spare yourself the anxiety of showing up to the airport and having to pay extra for an overweight bag with this luggage scale . It clips onto your luggage and provides an instant weight read so you know if you need to remove a few items (or have space for a few added items).

Travel Ready Portable Emergency First Aid Kit

From blisters to unexpected injuries, this first aid kit has got you covered. The compact box includes band-aids of different sizes, gauze and tape, alcohol wipes, Neosporin, and Tylenol.

Gillette Venus Extra Smooth On The Go Razor

With over 15,400 5-star ratings, reviewers love how small and convenient this portable razor is. It's everything you love about Gillette razors, just on a smaller scale. It comes with its own carrying case and a blade refill.

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

If there's any chance of me getting some shuteye, it's because I have a sleep mask on me. This blackout mask has padded contouring and an adjustable strap for a perfect fit that won't squish your eyes or slide off. It has a whopping 71,700+ 5-star ratings.

BAGSMART Travel Jewelry Organizer

Tossing all of your jewelry into a bag won't just make it hard to find what you're looking for but it will make everything tangled. This folding jewelry organizer solves the problem, with designated spaces for necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. And since it's flat, it doesn't take up much space. It comes in 11 colors and two sizes.

Himawari Laptop Backpack

While cute, carrying heavy shoulder bags are uncomfortable and painful, which is why I opt for a spacious backpack. This waterproof one has a padded laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets, and adjustable straps. Not to mention, it comes in so many cute colorways.

Hitting the slopes for Spring Break? Here's every affordable ski trip essential you need to pack.

Le Magazine Accor Hotels

Travel Checklist

From booking accommodation and flights to choosing travel insurance and packing for your holiday, we have you covered with our complete travel checklist.

traveler holding foreign currency

Holiday Money

Pre-book activities or restaurants.

phone, passport and foreign currency stacked together

Travel Documents

  • The excess: this is the agreed amount of money you will pay towards a claim on your policy.
  • Inclusions: if you are planning to hire a car or enjoy ‘adventure activities’ like sky jumping or scuba diving you want to make sure you are covered in case the unexpected happens. 

Accommodation

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girl packing suitcase for holiday

Ultimate Packing Checklist

  • Formal shirts
  • Casual shirts
  • Jeans /Pants
  • Coats/jackets
  • Walking shoes
  • Hiking/athletic shoes
  • Snow/rain boots
  • Dress shoes
  • Sandals/flip-flops
  • Dental floss
  • Shampoo & conditioner
  • Brush or comb
  • Hairstyling appliances
  • Moisturiser
  • Contact lenses & solution
  • Shaving products
  • Makeup remover
  • Feminine-hygiene products
  • Birth control
  • Nail file & clippers
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Antiseptic ointment
  • Insect repellent
  • Medications
  • Pain relievers
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Laptop, iPad, Kindle and chargers
  • Camera/video recorder, memory card, and charger
  • Books or e-books
  • Travel pillow
  • Change of clothes
  • Food or snacks
  • Water bottle
  • In-flight medications
  • Maps or guidebook
  • Glasses/sunglasses
  • List of medications
  • Emergency contacts
  • Credit card/bank cards
  • Travel itineraries and important information such as your boarding pass, the address of your accommodation or car hire service, and even a copy of your passport  
  • Beach towels
  • Goggles/ snorkels
  • Sandals/flip-flops/thongs
  • Beach towel
  • Water-proof sunscreen
  • After-sun care
  • Swim nappies
  • Baby shampoo and hairbrush
  • Talcum powder
  • Baby sunscreen
  • Thermometer
  • Travel pram
  • Disposable bibs
  • Baby formula/ Baby food pouches/ snacks
  • Baby monitor 
  • Feeding equipment  
  • Napping changing pad

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This American Airlines Rewards Sale Has Flights to the Caribbean, Mexico, and More Starting at Just 5,000 Miles

The sale ends March 15.

domestic travel packing list

Courtesy of American Airlines

American Airlines is having one of its best sales yet — with flights up for grabs at record-low rates of just 5,000 AAdvantage miles.

“Our biggest AAdvantage miles redemption offer yet,” the airline shared about the promotion on its website . “Now it’s even more rewarding to be an AAdvantage member with our biggest miles redemption offer yet. With half a million seats on offer, book one-way flights from only 5,000 miles to the U.S., Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America.”

The sale, which ends on March 15, allows fliers to book Main Cabin tickets on select domestic and international flights. The booking window is great for spring travel, as it’s eligible on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays between April 2 and May 29, 2024. 

Travelers can visit the promotional page to find all of the AAdvantage® Miles Redemption Deals , but Travel + Leisure has identified some of the best routes on sale for the 5,000-mile rate: 

  • Austin to Cabo San Lucas
  • Dallas-Fort Worth and Miami to Cancun
  • Boston to Phoenix
  • Charlotte to Turks and Caicos
  • Hartford to West Palm Beach
  • Washington, D.C. to Nassau

This is the type of sale that’s a “book now, plan later” situation, as Main Cabin tickets can be fully refunded back to your mileage account if needed. Main Cabin tickets also include free seat selection, one personal item, and one carry-on bag. 

The promotional deal is only available on flights operated by American Airlines or American Eagle® regional carriers. Travelers will have to pay the taxes and fees on the flight, which comes at a minimal cost for domestic travel at just $5.60 one-way.   

Travelers who are short a few miles for this sale can transfer miles between frequent flier accounts or buy miles directly through American Airlines with a targeted discount. However, they don’t come cheap as they’ll cost you roughly 3.5 cents per mile before any bonuses. 

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    Water bottle. In-flight medications. Maps or guidebook. Glasses/sunglasses. List of medications. Emergency contacts. Credit card/bank cards. Passport. Travel itineraries and important information such as your boarding pass, the address of your accommodation or car hire service, and even a copy of your passport.

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    Packing Tips A-List Travel Advisors View All Cruises Travel Products ... which comes at a minimal cost for domestic travel at just $5.60 one-way.