packing for business trip man

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

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

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

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

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

How to Pack for a Business Trip: Pointers for Men

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Pack Your Suitcase for Work Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Pack a Business Suit for Travel

Photo Credit: Pexels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Business Formal Attire

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

Your formal business trip packing list should include:

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

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Business Casual Attire

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

When packing for a business casual work trip bring:

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

What to Pack for a Business Trip: Casual Attire

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

Casual attire business trip packing should include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for a Business Trip: FAQ

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

How do avoid under-packing or overpacking?

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

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

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

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

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

Any suitcase or luggage recommendations?

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Cole Haan

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Author - Cassandra Sethi

Personal Stylist & Image Consultant

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

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Cassandra Sethi

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

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

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Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

Protect your laptop when you fly.

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

How to Pack for a Business Trip

Carry on plus personal item.

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

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

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

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

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

Roll Your Clothes and Pack Them in Packing Cubes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Business Trip Packing List

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

Let’s start with the basics.

• Copy of itinerary
• Boarding pass
• Transportation and accommodations

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

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

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

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

Electronics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clothes: Business Travel Wardrobe

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

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

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

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

Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

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

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

• 1 lightweight t-shirt to dress up or down

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

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

• 1 dark-colored blazer or suit jacket

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

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

2 Bottoms and 1 Dress

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

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

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

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

3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

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

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

2 Pairs of Shoes

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

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

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

1 Set of Pajamas

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

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

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

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

2 Dress Shirts and 1 Casual T-Shirt

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

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

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

2 Pairs of Pants

• 2 pairs of pants and/or  jeans

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

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

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

1 Blazer or Jacket

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

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

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

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

• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

5-Day Business Trip Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

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

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

What to pack for an overnight business trip:

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

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

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

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The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List

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

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Packing Checklist for a Business Trip

• T+L's Top Picks and Tips
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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

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

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

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

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

Daywear for Women

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

Eveningwear for Women

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

Daywear for Men

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

Eveningwear for Men

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

Best Shoes for Women

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

Best Shoes for Men

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

Accessories

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

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

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

Best Slacks

Everlane tencel way-high taper pant.

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

Best Business-casual Trousers

Athleta brooklyn ankle pants.

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

Best Blouse

Quince silk notch collar blouse.

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

Best Sleeveless Top

M.m.lafleur the nora top.

M.M.LaFleur

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

Best Day-to-night Dress

Modern citizen iman cotton twill split-hem dress.

Modern Citizen

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

Best Sweater

Banana republic bella merino sweater polo.

Banana Republic

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

Best Blazer

Spanx the perfect blazer.

Saks Fifth Avenue

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

Best Overcoat

Loft two button coat.

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

Best Trousers

Lululemon commission pant.

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

Best Chinos

Bearbottom stretch chino pant.

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

Best Button-down

Untuckit wrinkle-free performance gironde shirt.

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

Best Dress Shirt

Bonobos desk to dinner shirt.

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

Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers

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

Zara Stretch Blazer

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

Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Charles Tyrwhitt

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

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

Naturalizer Samantha d'Orsay Flat

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

Best Loafers

Nisolo emma d'orsay oxford.

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

Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel

Neiman Marcus

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

Best Travel-day Shoes

Vionic slip-on sneaker.

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

Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer

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

Best Dress Shoes

Allen edmonds park avenue oxford.

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

Moral Code Kai Sneaker

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

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

Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt

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

Best Wallet

Leatherology slim zip travel wallet.

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

Best Travel Tech Kit

Mark & graham essential tech folio.

Mark & Graham

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

Best Portable Charger

Nimble champ portable charger.

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

Best Water Bottle

Monos kiyo uvc bottle.

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

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

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

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

Best Checked Suitcase

Solgaard check-in closet.

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

Best Packing Cubes

Away the insider packing cubes.

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

Best Toiletry Bag

Dagne dover hunter toiletry bag.

Dagne Dover

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

Best Laptop Bag

Calpak haven laptop tote bag.

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers

Marty Levart

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

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

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

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

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

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

The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Electronics

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

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

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

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

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

Miscellaneous Business Essentials

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

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

Miscellaneous Travel Items

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

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

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How to Pack for a Business Trip

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

Best Luggage for Business Travel

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

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

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

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

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

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

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

Other Packing Essentials for a Work Trip

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

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

Lastly, don’t forget any medications!

More Packing Tips

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

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

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

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

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How to Pack for a Business Trip?

Sep 24, 2023 | Business Trip

Table of Contents

Ever find yourself teetering on the edge of uncertainty when it comes to packing for those all-important business jaunts? The dilemma of selecting the perfect items for your corporate excursions, all while trying to maintain a sense of order in your suitcase, can certainly leave your head spinning.

Fret not, intrepid traveler! We’re your trusty compass through the maze of Business Trip Packing List perplexities. Abandon your packing anxieties at the departure gate and journey with us into the treasure trove of knowledge that will supercharge your business trip packing prowess. As we embark on this adventure, we’ll lay out the elusive business trip packing list, helping you unlock the secrets of comfortable and supremely productive business travel.

Packing Right for a Business Trip

Pause and give a thought on the below before delving into what to pack for your next business trip.

Opt for a High Quality Luggage

Selecting the right luggage can make or break your Business Trip Packing List experience. When it comes to packing for a business trip, choosing high-quality luggage is more than just a suggestion; it’s a game-changer. Quality luggage offers several advantages, including durability to withstand the rigors of travel, convenient compartments and features for organized packing, and ease of maneuverability through bustling airports and hotels. Moreover, investing in reliable luggage minimizes the chances of unexpected mishaps like broken zippers or torn fabric, ensuring that your professional attire and work essentials remain intact and presentable throughout your journey.

Get a Travel Bag that’s Great for Business Trip

Prepare for your business journey with a travel bag that not only exudes sophistication but also incorporates the convenience of a luggage porter . Picture a bag that effortlessly complements your professional attire and offers ample space for your laptop, documents, and travel essentials. Whether you’re en route to a crucial meeting or a business conference, this bag seamlessly combines style and functionality. It’s more than just a bag; it’s a dedicated travel companion with the added benefit of a luggage porter to make your journey smoother. With this perfect fusion of practicality and elegance, you’ll be well-prepared to make a lasting impression on your business trip and seize every opportunity that comes your way.

Business Trip Packing List

Unlock the secrets to stress-free and efficient business travel with the ultimate Business Trip Packing List. It’s the compass that ensures every journey becomes a successful adventure!

In order to successfully meet your work objectives while on your business trip, it’s crucial to pack all the essential items required. Among the necessary items for your business trip are:

• Digital Workhorse: Your laptop or tablet, powered up and ready to conquer.
• Networking Arsenal: Carry your business cards, the ammunition of professional connections.
• Data Voyagers: USB drives, small but mighty, safeguarding your information.
• Analog Allies: A trusty pen and notebook, the old-school combo for capturing genius on paper.

our wardrobe should be as dynamic as your business itinerary. Tailor your clothing choices to the activities that await you. Whether it’s a full suit for the boardroom or a sharp dress shirt and tie for meetings, adapt your attire to the occasion.

But wait, there’s more! Don’t limit yourself to just business attire. Include casual outfits in your luggage, selecting versatile pieces like short-sleeved shirts or classic polo shirts. After all, a successful business trip can involve both work and leisure – “ Bleisure ”.

Elevate Your Style: Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

For the modern female professional on the move, crafting a versatile and trendsetting business travel wardrobe is the key to making a lasting impression. Here, we delve into the latest clothing selections and recommend some of the best brands to help you curate a wardrobe that blends fashion-forward sophistication with practicality.

1. The Power Suit:

• Trending Choice: Consider a tailored pantsuit or a blazer with wide-leg trousers for an elegant yet commanding look.
• Top Brands: Check out options from Theory, Hugo Boss, and Stella McCartney for contemporary power suits.

2. Dresses that Mean Business:

• Trending Choice: Opt for shift dresses or wrap dresses in bold solid colors or classic prints.
• Top Brands: Explore offerings from Kate Spade, T Tahari , and Diane von Furstenberg for on-trend dress options.

3. Mix and Match Separates:

• Trending Choice: Mix blouses and tailored skirts or slacks for versatile and chic outfit combinations.
• Top Brands: Brands like J.Crew, Ann Taylor, and Banana Republic offer a range of mix-and-match pieces.

4. Comfortable Footwear:

• Trending Choice: Stylish yet comfortable block-heeled pumps or sleek loafers for long days on your feet.
• Top Brands: Look for options from Cole Haan , Clarks, and Naturalizer for fashionable and practical shoes.

5. Accessorize Smartly:

• Trending Choice: Minimalist jewelry and a well-structured tote or briefcase for a polished finish.
• Top Brands: Shop for accessories at Michael Kors , Coach, and Kendra Scott for contemporary accents.

Building a women’s business travel wardrobe that seamlessly combines trendsetting choices with the best brands ensures you’re always ready to conquer the corporate world, wherever your journey takes you.

Mastering Business Travel Style: Men’s Wardrobe Essentials

In the world of business travel, a well-curated wardrobe is your passport to success. We’ll take you through the latest trends and highlight the best brands to ensure your attire is on point while jet-setting for work.

1. The Modern Suit:

• Trending Choice: Embrace the modern fit with slim-cut suits in versatile shades like navy or charcoal.
• Top Brands: Consider suits from Hugo Boss, Brooks Brothers , and SuitSupply for a sharp look.

2. Dress Shirts Done Right:

• Trending Choice: Crisp white dress shirts, complemented by subtle patterns or colors for a touch of sophistication.
• Top Brands: Explore options from Charles Tyrwhitt , Eton, and Thomas Pink for quality dress shirts.

3. Mix and Match Staples:

• Trending Choice: Versatile separates like blazers, chinos, and classic trousers to create stylish yet adaptable outfits.
• Top Brands: Brands like Bonobos , J.Crew, and Banana Republic offer a range of mix-and-match pieces.

4. Comfortable and Stylish Shoes:

• Trending Choice: Invest in comfortable, stylish loafers or lace-up dress shoes that can take you from meetings to dinners.
• Top Brands: Look for shoes from Allen Edmonds , Cole Haan, and Alden for both style and comfort.

5. Accessories that Elevate:

• Trending Choice: Minimalist watches and quality leather accessories, such as belts and briefcases, for a refined touch.
• Top Brands: Shop for accessories at brands like Tumi, Montblanc , and Fossil for the perfect finishing touches.

With a well-considered men’s business travel wardrobe that blends contemporary trends with top brands, you’ll exude confidence and professionalism, leaving a lasting impression at every destination on your corporate map.

It’s imperative not to overlook the preparation of these vital travel documents, which will be your trusty companions during your business expedition. Think ID cards, flight tickets, passports, and any necessary visas.

To keep these documents secure and within arm’s reach, consider a smart tactic – store them in a convenient and easily accessible spot. Picture sliding them into the external pocket of your carry-on or the inner sanctum of your trusty handbag. This way, you’ll glide through the airport and navigate your trip without the unnecessary hassle of rummaging around for your crucial documents when you need them the most.

Personal Belongings

As you embark on your journey, make it a habit to carry your identification or another approved form of ID like a seasoned traveler. After all, having your vital documents at the ready can be a lifesaver, particularly in the event of unexpected ID checks.

When it comes to toiletries, be discerning and opt for products that align with the TSA’s guidelines. Why? Well, nobody wants unwelcome airport delays disrupting their well-laid business travel plans. So, choose your toiletries wisely, ensuring a smooth and efficient passage through security checks, and keep your journey on the fast track to success.

Below, we’ve listed a selection of items that you’ll definitely want to include in your personal essentials bag for your business trip:

• Smartphone and tablet (with chargers)
• Personal laptop
• Debit and credit cards
• Your trusty wallet
• Identification or passport
• Headphones or earbuds
• Your favorite jewelry pieces
• Eyeglasses or sunglasses
• Necessary medications
• A bottle of hand sanitizer
• Your choice of cosmetics and toiletries

Miscellaneous

These seemingly small items can make a big difference in your travel experience, from staying organized to handling unexpected situations with ease. Let’s explore the world of miscellaneous items that can elevate your business trip, turning it into a well-prepared and smoothly executed journey.

• Sticky Notes: Great for leaving reminders or jotting down quick notes.
• Multi-Tool: A compact tool with various functions can be a lifesaver.
• Reusable Shopping Bag: Handy for carrying items during your trip and being eco-conscious.
• Ziplock Bags: Useful for organizing and separating items in your luggage.
• Sewing Kit: A small kit can help in case of clothing emergencies.
• Travel-Sized Laundry Detergent: Stay fresh and clean on longer trips.
• Earplugs and Sleep Mask: Ensure a good night’s sleep, even in noisy environments.
• TSA-Approved Locks: Keep your luggage secure during transit.
• Business Trip Checklist: Keep track of your itinerary, meetings, and tasks.
• Travel Insurance Information: Important for any unexpected situations.
• USB Hub: Expand your device charging options when outlets are limited.
• Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot: Stay connected wherever you go.
• Travel Pillow and Blanket: Make long flights or layovers more comfortable.
• Spare Plastic Bags: Useful for separating dirty laundry or protecting electronics.
• Collapsible Tote Bag: Handy for carrying extra items or souvenirs.
• Mini Flashlight: Be prepared for unexpected power outages or navigating in the dark.
• Spare Glasses/Contact Lenses: Don’t be caught without your vision correction.
• Travel Pillow and Eye Mask: Ensure restful sleep during transit.
• Tissues/Handkerchief: For those unexpected sneezes or spills.
• Travel Journal: Capture your journey’s memories and important details.
• Spare Phone Charger: Always have a backup charger for your devices.
• Emergency Snacks: Keep energy bars or snacks on hand for when hunger strikes.
• Travel Entertainment: Bring a book, crossword puzzles, or a favorite magazine.
• Local Currency: A small amount can be useful for transportation or small purchases.
• Travel-Size Toiletries: Include essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste.
• Mini First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries or discomfort.

Tips on How to Pack for a Longer Business Trip

Preparing for a longer business trip, especially those involving corporate and financial roadshows , demands a well-thought-out Business Trip Packing List strategy. As you embark on these extended professional journeys, it’s essential to strike the right balance between efficiency and preparedness.

• Plan Ahead: Start by creating a detailed itinerary and a checklist of essentials for your trip.
• Choose Versatile Clothing: Pack mix-and-match items to create multiple outfits and reduce the number of clothing items.
• Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes instead of folding them can save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Packing Cubes: Invest in packing cubes to keep your items organized and easily accessible.
• Travel-Sized Toiletries: Opt for travel-sized toiletries or buy refillable containers to save space and comply with airline regulations.
• Pack Smart Electronics: Bring a multi-port charger and power bank to keep your devices charged throughout your trip.
• Limit Shoe Choices: Choose a few versatile pairs of shoes that can work for various occasions.
• Stay Connected: Have a digital copy of important documents, such as itineraries and reservations, accessible on your phone or tablet.
• Medications and Prescriptions: Ensure you have an ample supply of any necessary medications and prescriptions for the duration of your trip.
• Layering: Opt for clothing that can be layered for warmth or adjusted to varying temperatures.
• Mind the Weight Limit: Check your airline’s baggage weight restrictions and pack accordingly to avoid excess baggage fees.
• Security: Keep valuable items and important documents in a carry-on bag for added security.
• Make the most of your hotel: For instance, you can save space in your luggage by relying on the hotel’s laundry services or using provided amenities like a hair dryer or iron, eliminating the need to pack them yourself.

The Art of Business Travel Packing: Your Journey Begins with Confidence!

Packing for a business trip doesn’t have to be a daunting task; it can be a seamless and efficient process when you have the right knowledge and tools at your disposal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the essential elements of preparing for your business journey. From creating a tailored packing list to curating a professional wardrobe, from selecting the perfect accessories to ensuring your electronics are ready to go, we’ve covered it all.

By following the stress free business travel tips for packing and recommendations provided in this guide, you’ll not only pack with confidence but also arrive at your destination well-prepared for a hassle free trip.

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Business Trip Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Documents

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

1. Passport

2. Required Documents

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

3. Travel Insurance

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

4. Driver’s License

5. Rental Car Confirmation

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

6. Business Trip Itinerary

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

7. Debit and Credit Cards

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

8. Emergency Contacts

9. Document Copies

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

Health and Personal Care

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

10. Medication

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

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

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

11. Hand Sanitizer

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

12. Antibacterial Wipes

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

Tech and Electronics

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

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

13. Main Laptop and Charger

14. Backup Laptop and Charger

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

15. Business Phone and Charger

16. Personal Phone and Charger

17. Tablet and Charger

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

18. Portable Battery

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

19. Multi-Charger

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

20. Travel Adapter

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

21. Travel Router

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

22. Noise-Canceling Headphones

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

23. Bluetooth Speaker

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

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

24. Travel Pillow

25. Sleeping Mask

26. Earplugs

27. Collapsible Water Bottle

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

28. Travel Blanket

29. Anti-Nausea Bands

30. Snack Pack

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

Entertainment

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

31. Fire TV Stick

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

32. Pre-downloaded Offline Shows and Movies

33. Pre-Downloaded Offline Playlist

34. Kindle Paperwhite

35. Travel Journal

Glasses and Eyewear

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

36. Glasses with Case

37. Backup Pair of Glasses

38. Contact Lenses

39. Eyeglass Repair Kit

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

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

40. Lightweight Suitcase

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

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

41. Carry On

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

42. Briefcase with Slide

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

43. Anti-Theft Backpack

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

44. Garment Bag

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

45. Packing Cubes

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

Conference/Meeting Clothing

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

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

46. Suit Jacket

47. Waistcoat

52. Pencil Dress

53. Pencil Skirt

54. Jumpsuit

57. Coat or Jacket

58. Underwear

59. Sewing Repair Kit

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

Networking/Dinner Clothing

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

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

60. Smart Casual Shirt

61. Smart Casual Top

63. Slacks (or Jeans)

Downtime Clothing

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

65. Casual Dresses

67. Pants or Jogging Bottoms

68. Workout Clothes

69. Pajamas

70. Spare Underwear

71. Rain Jacket

72. Swimsuit/wear

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

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

73. Brogues

74. Loafers

78. Trainers or Sneakers

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

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

79. Toiletries Bag/Case which could contain:

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

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

81. Makeup Remover

82. Hair Dryer

83. Hair Straightener

84. Curling Iron

85. Hairbrush

86. Hairstyling Products

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

87. Jewelry Case to carry:

Reward and Loyalty Schemes

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

88. Rewards Credit Card

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

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

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

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

90. Air Miles Membership

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

91. Lounge Pass

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

92. Co-Working Membership

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

93. Pre-Booked Access to Meeting Room

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

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

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

95. Business Cards

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

96. Contact Details (Physical or Digital)

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

97. USB Stick or Portable Hard Drive

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

98. Powerpoint/Slide Deck/Presentation

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

99. Company Branded Stationary/Merch

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

100. Pen and Notepad

Digital and Security

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

101. VPN Account

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

102. Password Manager

103. Data Bundle from Phone Provider

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

104. SIM with Pre-Loaded Data

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

105. USB Data Blocker

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

106. Travel Safe

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

107. Contents and Business Insurance

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

Download PDF Checklist

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

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

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

You Might Also Like to Read

• Weekend Packing List for Quick Getaways

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Author: Dale

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

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

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

Categories Travel

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

Related To: Types of Packing Organizers | Types of Travel Accessories for Men | Types of Luggage Material | Caribbean Packing List | Europe Trip Packing List | Costa Rica Packing List | Disneyland Packing List |  Florida Packing List |  RV Camping Packing List |  Mexico Packing List

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

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

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

Choosing the Right Luggage

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

When selecting luggage, keep the following in mind:

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

1. Weekend Trip

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

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

• Charger for each device
• Headphones (optional)

Travel Documents

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

Personal Items

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

Office Supplies

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

• Pens/pencils

Other Items

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

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

Weekend Trip With Children

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

Babies/Toddlers

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

Children Ages 5 and up

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

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

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

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

2. Week Long Business Trip

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

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

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

Let’s start with the basics:

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

Toiletries and other essentials:

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

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

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

• Chargers for all of your devices
• External hard drive

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

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

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

Babies and toddlers:

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

Children aged 5 and up:

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

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

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

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

3. Month-Long (or longer) Business Trip

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

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

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

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

• toothbrush/toothpaste
• shampoo/conditioner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• pens/pencils

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

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

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

Babies and toddlers

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

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

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

Children Aged 5 and Up

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

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

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

• crate/carrier
• harness/leash

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

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

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

Making the Most Out of Your Luggage Space

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

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

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

Making a Hotel Room Home

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

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

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

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

Choosing a Place to Stay

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

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

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

Additional Helpful Tips

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

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

The Bottom Line

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

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19 Top Business Trip Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Business trips can take all different forms, whether they are domestic or international, or focus on team building and leadership. It can be hard to know what to pack for a business trip, as there may be many different activities to pack and dress for.

We’ve put together this Business Trip Packing list to help you navigate what to bring on your trip! Our list includes sections on what to wear, what NOT to bring, and answers to all your business trip FAQs.

Don’t forget to bring patience and a sense of adventure because there are always bound to be last-minute changes in plans!

What to Pack for a Business Trip – 19 Essentials

1. packing cubes.

Packing cubes will make your business trip packing and unpacking so much easier. Stay organized by utilizing these handy cubes when packing your suitcase and keep yourself from overpacking. These cases come in different sizes and colors and even include laundry and shoe bags as well.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Business Cards

You’ll be glad you brought business cards on your business trip, as you’ll likely have plenty of networking opportunities and will want to connect with people again after your trip. These cards are inexpensive and can be ordered right on Amazon!

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is useful for so many reasons. It will help you get around paywalls on popular news sites, will allow you access to websites that may be censored by the host country, and most importantly, it will keep your private information, like credit card numbers and passwords, safe from potential hackers whenever you connect to WiFi in public places. If you’re looking for a good VPN, we use NordVPN and are really pleased with their service.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

A lipstick-size portable charger is a great item to bring on your business trip, as you’re likely to be using your smartphone throughout the day and won’t want to have to stop what you’re doing to recharge it. Toss this backup battery charger in your backpack and charge your devices while you’re on the go!

5. Windproof Travel Umbrella

Don’t get caught in the rain during your business trip. Make sure to bring a reliable windproof travel umbrella like this one with you to keep you and your business gear safe from the elements. This umbrella is awesome because it opens to cover up to two people.

You’ll definitely want to bring a reliable laptop with you on your business trip. Whether you’re using it to take notes, give a presentation, or chill out at the end of the day, you won’t want to leave for your trip without one! This one is relatively inexpensive and gets great reviews on Amazon.

7. Neck Wallet

A neck wallet will definitely come in handy during your business trip. Keep your important documents, credit cards, cash, smartphone, and any other small valuables organized and secure in this handy pouch. A neck wallet is perfect for staying organized at the airport or keeping your belongings safe during your trip.

8. Cooling Towel

If you plan on playing a round of golf or doing some sort of outdoor activity with your coworkers in your free time during your business trip then it would be a good idea to bring a cooling towel. It will help you stay comfortable on a hot day, especially if you’re spending hours under the sun golfing. All you do is wet the towel, wring out any excess water, and it instantly becomes 20-30 degrees colder than the air temperature and you can use it as many times as you need.

9. Notebook

You’ll definitely want to have a notebook with you when you attend a business trip. Take notes by hand during your meetings and use it to keep yourself organized. Perhaps even use it as a journal in your spare time during the trip.

10. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

You never know what kind of fun activity a conference has planned for the attendees to socialize or what sort of attractions there are in the area. It’s a good idea to pack a travel towel because they take up barely any space but are super useful if you plan on going swimming or spending time outdoors. They dry so much quicker than a normal towel, repel odors, and are compact.

11. Business Outfits

Be prepared for business meetings and outings during your business trip by bringing professional outfits. While there may be instances during your trip when you’ll want to wear more casual clothing, you’ll be glad you came prepared with enough business attire.

12. LifeStraw Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is an absolute must-bring on any business trip. You’ll need to make sure you’re staying hydrated throughout the day and won’t want to waste money and damage the environment by buying plastic bottles. This water bottle comes with a built-in filter, too!

13. Backpack

A backpack with space to hold your laptop is completely key when heading to your business trip. Use it to carry your belongings to meetings and events during the trip so you always have what you need. This backpack also comes with a USB charging port.

14. Business Trip Travel Insurance

If your business trip is taking you more than 100 miles from home, you should definitely look into getting travel insurance before you go. TravelInsurance.com is always our top choice when it comes to buying insurance, as they have tons of plans from top companies to choose from that offer you incredible coverage.

Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

15. Dry Shampoo

During your business trip, you may not have a ton of downtime when you’re running from event to event. Be sure to pack some handy dry shampoo like this that will keep you looking and feeling fresh if you don’t have time to take a full shower!

16. Activated Charcoal

The last place you want to be during your business trip is stuck in the bathroom with your head in the toilet! If you eat or drink something that doesn’t agree with you during your trip, you’ll be glad you brought some activated charcoal to expel the toxins in your body and keep you on your feet.

17. Gorgeous Outfit

During your business trip, you’ll probably have the opportunity to head out for nice dinners, happy hours, and other after-hours events. Be sure to bring a gorgeous outfit like this jumpsuit so you’ll be prepared for anything! This one looks great on a variety of body types and doesn’t wrinkle easily so it can be packed in your suitcase without a problem.

18. TSA-Approved Travel-Size Bottles

You won’t want to pack full-size liquids and toiletries for your business trip, so opt for bringing some of these TSA-approved travel-size bottles instead. These will help you pass through security with ease and can be refilled as needed.

19. Deodorant Wipes

Deodorant wipes are a great way to quickly freshen up during a business trip. If you don’t have time to run back to your room for a shower, keep these wipes in your purse or backpack so you can easily stay fresh throughout the day. Your colleagues will thank you!

Other Business Trip Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Luggage Locks
• Universal Power Adapter
• Quick Dry Travel Towel
• Swimsuit Cover Up
• Motion Sickness Relief
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Makeup Remover Wipes
• Travel Neck Pillow
• Contact Solution
• Hanging Toiletry Case
• Noise Cancelling Headphones
• Protein Bars
• Electrolytes
• Hard Copies of Vital Documents
• Over the Counter Medications

What to Wear to a Business Trip

What you wear on a business trip will largely depend on your business and the company culture. That said, regardless of what industry you’re in, you should be prepared with at least a few business-appropriate outfits. That will include a nice collared shirt and long pants for men, and a business suit or conservative dress or skirt for women. Don’t forget a few nice outfits for happy hours, special events, and nice dinners you may attend as well.

Women should look professional and appropriate on any business trip, so be sure to pack things like slacks, pencil skirts, business suits, and blouses. You’ll also want some chic but relatively conservative outfits for evenings out, nice dinners, happy hours, and events where business attire won’t be required. What Should MEN Wear to a Business Trip? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Business Meeting – You will inevitably encounter a business meeting or two during your trip, so you’ll want to be prepared in normal business attire. That means a collared shirt and slacks for men and a pantsuit or skirt and blouse for women.

Happy Hours – Happy hours are common during business trips, so you’ll want to look put together and professional, but you can dress a bit more casual than a business meeting. Opt for a dress with a jacket, a shirt without a tie, or general business casual attire.

Downtime – You’ll definitely have a bit of downtime at some point during your business trip, so bring casual, comfy clothes to relax in. Don’t forget swimwear if your hotel has a pool, and consider bringing clothes to workout in if you’d like, too.

What NOT to Bring on a Business Trip

1. don’t pack too much stuff:.

Your business trip likely won’t last longer than a few days, so save yourself the hassle of checking your luggage and only bring what you can carry onto the plane. You don’t need as much stuff as you think!

2. DON’T TAKE clothes that are too casual:

Even though parts your trip might call for more casual clothing, you’re still on a business trip and will need to look presentable and professional most of the time. Err on the side of caution and pack mostly business and business casual attire.

3. DON’T BRING a hairdryer:

This is another item you’re likely to find in your business trip accommodation, and therefore don’t need to waste the space in your luggage by packing it. Hair dryers can be hard on your hotel’s power outlets, so it’s better to use the ones they provide anyway.

4. DON’T BRING full-size toiletries:

Leave your full-size toiletries at home, as they’ll just bog you down on your short business trip. Instead, opt for travel-size toiletries that you can easily refill or toss out at the end of your trip.

5. DON’T PACK your own towel:

Don’t bog down your luggage with a heavy, bulky towel. Your business trip accommodation will likely have a towel for you to use that you can leave there when you’re done.

6. DON’T TAKE your most valuable or irreplaceable belongings:

The last thing you need on your business trip is for your most valuable and precious belongings to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Bring only what you need for your trip and leave the rest at home!

FAQs for Going on a Business Trip

1. will i have to pay for my own expenses during my business trip.

Typically, employees will not have to pay for their own expenses during a business trip. Some companies will have you pay for the things you need during the trip and then will reimburse you afterwards, so be sure to save all your receipts!

2. Will I have any downtime during my business trip?

Whether you have a lot or a little bit of downtime during your business trip will depend on your company and the type of trip you’re attending. That said, you’ll definitely have at least SOME downtime, so come prepared with activities that help you relax and unwind.

3. Will I be paid during my business trip?

Yes, you should be paid during your business trip. If your company is requiring you to be present, then they will be paying you for your time.

4. Where will I stay during a business trip?

Your company will more often than not provide your accommodation for your business trip, which means you’ll likely be put up in a hotel for the duration of your stay. Your company will probably provide a means of transportation to and from the main events during your trip as well.

5. How can I stay organized on my business trip?

Bring packing cubes! Not only will packing cubes help you to avoid overpacking, but they’ll also help keep you super organized during your trip. Keep your clothing, toiletries, and work-related belongings organized in their own separate cubes. These will be a gamechanger for your business trip!

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How to Pack for an Overnight Business Trip

By Matt Sebra

Photography by Matt Martin

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Business trips are good for three things:

• Expensing wildly overpriced room-service club sandwiches.
• Eating wildly overpriced room-service club sandwiches in a bed you don't have to make.
• Getting work done.

How to pack for a work trip, however, requires that business comes first, sandwiches second. It also requires Marie Kondo–levels of prioritization for what's going to make it into your carry-on bag. (Unless your business is being Elton John, you shouldn't require more space than that.) An overnight business trip requires reliable menswear staples that are office-appropriate but also comfortable on an airplane. It requires suited man gear but also casual threads appropriate for off-the-clock activities. Basically, you need a tightly edited capsule of mix-and-match pieces, and we've determined that there are nine of them (not including socks, underwear, and a loaded dopp kit ) that are guaranteed to take the guesswork out of getting dressed on your next business trip.

We're talking about luggage that stows your clothes, shoes, and toiletries and charges your phone. Away's lineup launched as a solution to the most annoying of all travel dilemmas, which is finding a place to charge your phone before a flight. Thanks to the case's built-in battery, you can do just that, whether you're waiting in line for a $4 bottle of water or feasting on a piping-hot order of subpar Chili's To Go nachos. Even without the added benefit of a mobile power station, Away's carry-on is smartly designed, with sections that keep clothes, your dopp kit, and shoes separate and a nylon zip sack for laundry during your trip. Plus, the exterior is scratch-resistant, the body rests on four easy-to-maneuver wheels, and it's lighter-weight than some of the more common carry-ons you're used to seeing.

A great gray suit is your secret weapon to a sartorially successful business trip. The neutral color is formal enough for a power meeting in a wood-paneled conference room, dressy enough for a dinner out with co-workers or clients, and pairs up with every other piece you're bringing along (see below). And the real Swiss army knife–esque appeal of a medium gray suit is that you can break it apart and wear the jacket with jeans or the pants with a fresh dress shirt for more casual appointments.

No dress shirt better telegraphs to the people around you that you are a capable man of business than a crisp white dress shirt, especially one that's just back from the dry cleaners or, even better, brand new (no one trusts a man with a lingering coffee stain down his front). We're talking about one in a smooth cotton poplin, preferably with a hint of stretch to move with you and keep wrinkles at bay. Plus, a white dress shirt is the perfect canvas for any tie so you don't have to spend extra minutes deciding what to wear in the morning.

One solid-color silk knit tie can take the place of an entire neckwear arsenal, which is key when you're looking to pack lightly. ( Read more about our go-to tie for every situation .)

Dressy jeans do exist. They're unwashed, free of any abrasions or tears, and fit the same way your dress pants should (slim but not too skinny). A classic pair in deep blue indigo is perfect for pairing with your suit jacket if you're hitting the town at night or just want something more casual for the flight home.

You always need a backup dress shirt on a business trip—even an overnight one—and the one you should always stow should be blue-and-white striped, cut in a semi-spread-collar silhouette. The pattern leans formal when you pair it with a tie and put it under a suit. But if you're going casual, it can polish up a pair of jeans, even if you wear it unbuttoned.

There are a lot of reasons why you won't do better than a pair of sleek black loafers when you're going out of town for work. The easy-on, easy-off laceless shoes make getting through security no sweat. They're formal enough to sit in the same room with CEOs and other three-letter bigwigs, but not so formal that you'll have to change for celebratory drinks after a day's work. Wear them with socks under your suit, or go sockless (with a rolled-cuff jean) when you're off the clock. But however you wear them, just make sure their polished up before you head out of town.

In 2017, we don't wear belts with suits, so the one you're going to bring on an overnight business trip can be casual—but not too casual. That's why we suggest one better than your standard silver-buckle leather options, like this one. It adds something extra to a basic pair of jeans but doesn't overpower your look. The key is to keep the scale small—no more than 1 1/4" wide.

We don't need to remind you that if you're wearing a suit jacket, you should be wearing a pocket square. When you're hitting the road with the goal of impressing some associates, your goal with accessories is to keep them understated but impactful, and a color-tipped pocket square does just that.

You should have a quality white T-shirt on hand whenever you're traveling, but especially on a business trip, where it will come in handy as a layering fix in a pinch or as a welcome changeup from 9-to-5 gear for the flight home. And when we say quality, we don't mean one that comes in a 6-pack from Target. Because a really great white tee that's crafted from fine cotton and cut well won't look out of place under that suit jacket.

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How to Pack for a Business Trip: A Travel Packing Checklist

Whether your packing for your first business trip or your 500th, there are always upgrades you can make to your packing plans and travel gear to make your trip as easy and comfortable as possible. Follow along and you'll be ready to take on your trip like the most seasoned travelers.

Choosing the Right Luggage & Bags for Business Travel

Your whole trip can hinge around whether or not you select the appropriate bags for your trip. After all, making sure that your clothing, electronics, and material or equipment get to your destination safe and sound is one of the most important aspects of travel. Here are a few popular luggage options for both check bags and cabin bags.

The Classic Rolling Suitcase

There are many variations of the rolling suitcase that are fit to serve a variety of purposes. If you’re going on an extended business trip, these are probably the way to go. Roller suitcases are the most efficient way to pack and transport everything you need for your trip.

Duffle Bags

The duffle bag is an ideal travel bag for a short business trip. The large open space provides enough room for just about all the clothing that you’d need for a night or two away. It’s best to pair these with a laptop bag or briefcase since they don’t have the structure to protect your valuables.

Choosing the Right Carry-On Bags for Business Travel

Most airlines allow you a complimentary carry-on bag, so it would be silly to not take advantage of that. In fact, many people only bring carry-on bags to avoid waiting for baggage check. Others will check a larger bag and pack a smaller laptop bag or backpack for the flight.

Briefcases and Messanger Bags

The briefcase is a classic business travel staple. These have evolved over the years and gotten smarter. Some briefcases that are meant for travel have built-in features like portable chargers and straps that connect to your rolling luggage bag.

They say backpacks are the new briefcases! Backpacks are becoming increasingly commonplace in the workplace, especially on business trips. That’s because backpacks typically do a better job at protecting your electronics and other valuables while keeping your hands free.

Specialized Carry-On Bags

These types of bags are designed to be your one and only bag for your trip. That means it holds everything from your laptop to your clothes and toiletries! These are great for short business trips in which you’re only spending a night or two away from home.

Smart Packing Accessories for Business Travel

They say work smarter, not harder. The same concept applies to packing for a business trip Here are some nifty packing accessories and travel gadgets that can make your trip a breeze.

Custom Luggage Tags

Have you ever watched suitcases come out of the baggage reclaim carousel and thought every other bag was yours? Most of us have. A custom luggage tag is a great way to identify your bag so you don’t end up with the wrong bag… or more importantly, to prevent someone else from walking away with yours!

Packing Cubes

Organize your bags with neat and tidy packing cubes containing different types of luggage for easy access. You can have a dedicated packing cube for shoes, clothing, toiletries, and whatever else you see fit!

Personalized Passport Wallets

When you’re traveling there is nothing more valuable than your passport, especially if you’re traveling internationally. A lost passport can cut your trip short or prevent it altogether, but these a passport wallet is a great way to protect your passport, boarding pass, and other travel documents.

Toiletry Kits & Cosmetic Cases

When you’re meeting with customers or colleagues from out of town it’s important to leave a good impression. That means you’ll want to look your best! Don’t forget your grooming gear.

Suit Bags & Garment Bags

Suit bags and garment bags are highly recommended if you are going to be dressing to impress. They help prevent wrinkles and creases without needed to break out the ironing board in your room.

Luggage Scales

These are the perfect way to avoid getting slapped with additional fees for having luggage heavier that an airline’s regulations for a standard checked bag. Plus, they make great corporate gifts!

Popular Business Travel Brands

Like any industry, the travel industry has brands that just do it better than most. That includes more than just fancy bags and luggage too. We’re talking about all the latest travel gear and gadgets as well! Check out some of our favorite luggage and travel accessory brands below.

PS, they’re all available for customization with your company logo!

What to Pack for a Business Trip

Okay, so now that you’ve got your bags and packing accessories ready to go its time to fill them up with all the right apparel and accessories to make your trip go as seamlessly as possible. Here’s a checklist that will make sure you don’t have to make a trip to the mall right when you land.

Clothing Checklist

Packing for a business trip can be tricky. You don’t want your nice clothes to get wrinkled or creased, but you don’t want to wear uncomfortable and restrictive clothing while traveling either. To save space a good rule of thumb is to always wear your bulkiest clothing on the flight! Here’s a business trip packing list to get you started on the rest:

• Jacket or Blazer:  even if your business trip is more casual in nature, it's always a good idea to pack a nice jacket or blazer. It's the perfect way to class up any outfit if a more formal occasion presents itself.
• Dress Pants or Skirt:  this may go without saying because it would be especially shocking if you showed up to your meeting without any bottoms on!
• Dress Shirt or Blouse: another garment that may go without saying, but we don't want to be responsible for you not having anything to wear to your meeting.
• Sweater or Sweatshirt: after a long day at work on your business trip there’s nothing better than changing into a comfy sweatshirt. They’re also great to wear on the plane…
• Comfy Travel Outfit: some people like to class it up on the plane. We’re more of the sweatpants and a comfortable hoodie type.
• Shoes: you probably don’t need to pack any more than two pairs – one for work and one for the plane or for exercise.
• Underwear & Socks: these are the things you don’t want to run out of the most! Make sure you have a pair of underwear and socks packed for each day of your trip!
• PJs or Sleepwear: hotel bedsheets can be coarse, uncomfortable, and sometimes even dirty. Sleeping in your favorite pajamas makes it all a bit more comfortable.
• Workout Gear: most hotels have fitness rooms that you can take advantage of during downtime of your business trip.   

Accessories & Personal Items Checklist

When it comes to traveling for work, accessories are necessities. Some of these things simply make your life easier, some its nearly impossible to live without!

• Toiletries & Toiletry Case : don’t rely on the hotel-provided toiletries! Make sure to pack everything you’ll need to look your best. Don’t forget to bring travel size containers if you’re carrying on.
• Water Bottle :   staying hydrated is key, especially when you’re traveling. Bringing a custom reusable water bottle is a great way to save on buying plastic water bottles.
• Headphones :   don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones (especially if they’re noise-canceling) unless you want to make your flight feel twice as long!

• Wall Phone Charger : you’ll need to make sure that your phone is charged up for important calls and emails since you will be away from your computer for much of the day. While we’re on the topic, don’t forget to bring your phone too!
• Portable Phone Charger : same logic applies as the wall charger, but these come in especially handy when you’re on the plane, in the airport, or in a taxi or Uber.
• Travel Umbrella : don’t get caught in the rain without one of these. There’s nothing worse than showing up to an important meeting soaking wet.
• Sunglasses : this isn’t necessarily a must-have but they’re some of the most commonly forgotten accessories when traveling!

Work Supplies Checklist

With all the effort and energy that goes into packing your personal items its easy to forget that you are in fact taking this trip for a purpose. First and foremost, make sure to double and triple check that you have all the materials you need for your meeting, trade show, or conference packed or saved on your laptop. In addition to your relevant materials, here are a few more items that are smart to bring along.

• Laptop & Laptop Case :  these days just about all business is conducted online in some way, shape, or form. Make sure that your computer is protected while traveling!
• Notebook :   it's always nice to have a notebook or journal for notetaking when you don’t have your computer handy.
• Pen :   the other component to notetaking, but you already knew that.

• Business Cards : chances are you’ll be meeting new clients or colleagues on your trip, so it’s always a good idea to bring business cards to exchange.
• USB Flash Drive : like trading business cards, USB flash drives are a great way to trade information. You can either pre-load these with a presentation/ offering and distribute them or you can gather information from others for yourself.

While we can’t guarantee the success of your meetings, if you follow this guide you should be all packed up and prepared to dominate your business trip! If you found this guide helpful be sure to check out our other planning guides and how-to guides as well.

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August 26, 2018 By Michelle Maraj 35 Comments

The Ultimate Packing List for Work Trips

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

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

Building a Packing List for a Work Trip

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

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

Packing Essentials for a Business Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Refreshed Each Week While Traveling for Work

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Laptop Bag Necessities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Expectations During a Business Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Packing Your Suitcase for a Business Trip

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

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

Learn more about traveling for work

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

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The perfect business trip packing list for men, more in business:.

When you travel for business, you’re expected to look perfectly put-together and polished, even if you’re suffering from serious jet lag and are living out of a suitcase–wrinkled button-ups and all. The key is to remove as many unknown variables as you can to help the trip go smoothly and to prevent any predictable snafus. As long as you’re strategic about what you pack—taking plenty of time to carefully curate a list that takes every scenario into account—you can count on wooing everyone you meet and looking super professional throughout the trip.

Travel-Friendly, Wrinkle-Resistant Outfits in One Color Scheme —When traveling for work, you need to look polished and professional even when you’ve just logged a long, stressful day of travel. Here are some tips for ensuring that you show up at every meeting looking amazing:

Wrinkle- and lint-free fabrics are your friend . Look, we all want to claim that we immediately arrived at the hotel, unpacked, ironed and hung up all of our dress clothes, but no one would buy that. Instead, pack clothes that make it look like you actually did all of that without actually having to do all of that. The best wrinkle-free fabrics for traveling tend to be synthetics, like polyester and lyocell, but wool and cashmere will do fine, too.

Pick a color scheme and stick to it . Pick a color scheme (brown and navy or black and gray, for example) to make it easier to mix and match pieces so you get out the door faster in the morning. This also allows you to pack only a single pair of dress shoes, a single belt and—if you’re really particular about matching—a single briefcase or laptop bag.

Don’t overpack . Of course, the number of outfits you need will depend on how many days you’ll be gone and how many different events you’ll be attending, but for a full work week, pack at least two pairs of pants and five shirts that go with both pairs. Overpacking isn’t the worst thing you can do, especially if your company is covering your checked bag fees, but it does make it harder to coordinate outfits in the morning.

If necessary, steam out the wrinkles. Even if you’ve packed the highest tech travel fabrics ever, your work clothes may emerge from your luggage a bit wrinkly. If this happens, don’t fret! And don’t bust out the travel steamer or hotel room ironing board, either. Simply hang your wrinkly garments on a hanger and leave them in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam will smooth away the wrinkles for you.

Don’t forget the lounge clothes. Your co-workers will probably want to meet you out for happy hour or dinner or you may have a night off to stay in and lounge or go to a movie. Make sure you have one or two outfits for casual dinners and lounging sessions if you think they may be on the agenda.

Your Own Toiletries (Not t he Awful Hotel Ones) —One word of advice for guys who want to look and fe el their best on a biz trip: S kip the hotel shampoo and conditioners and fill your fave men’s toiletry bag with your regular day-to-day products that you’re used to. The hotel-supplied products aren’t going to help your hair behave, and may add time, effort and frustration to your getting-ready routine. Instead, bring your own tried and true men’s travel size toiletries . Here’s a quick list of the most important things to include:

Hair stuff , including a comb, shampoo, conditioner and hair styling products . Dry shampoo can be a life-saver for guys who tend to have greasy hair, too.

Shaving stuff. It’s tempting to pack a cheap travel-sized razor and make do with sub-par shaving cream, but pack what you use at home when you want to impress, including a safety razor and some premium shav ing cream .

Deodorant and cologne, because there’s a good chance you’re going to be in plenty of sweat-inducing scenarios wh ere a good deodorant or cologne is necessary.

Face wash and skin care products . The last thing you want to do is get ready for a big business trip only to show up and have your skin break out. Pack travel-sized bottles of your preferred face wash and skin care products.

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash. Nothing’s worse than forgetting your toothbrush or having to use the cheap stuff from the front desk, so make sure yours are packed and ready to go.

The Everyday Basics —One of the best ways to make sure that you packed everything you need for any kind of trip is to go through a regular day, from getting ready in the morning to prepping for bed at night, to make sure you have everything you need. Some basics you need to include are: your phone charger, your laptop charger, any prescriptions you take regularly, your glasses or contacts and any other medical devices you could potentially need throughout the week.

Backups and Life-Savers —No matter how much time you put into prepping and strategizing, the occasional hiccup can occur. Consider keeping some life-savers and backups on hand to prevent disasters. Having a travel-friendly first aid and medicine kit (which you can easily make yourself ) can help you stay calm if you get sick or injured. Make sure to include bandages, painkillers, antacids and other day-to-day OTC meds that you may need in a pinch. Don’t forget to pack your power bank for on-the-go charging, too!

Be Strategic But Don’t Stress

With the internet and convenience stores in every corner of the world, forgetting something is most likely not going to be a major disaster. But taking the time to be strategic about what you pack is a great way to ensure that your trip goes off without a hitch so that you can make an amazing impression and get invited back again and again.

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How To Pack A Suitcase, According To A Seasoned Traveler

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Learning how to pack a suitcase can make future trips seamless and stress-free. With plenty of helpful packing methods out there, it’s easy to maximize the limited space of your suitcase so that you can bring as much as possible, depending on your itinerary. The best way to pack a suitcase depends on the length of your trip and other factors, such as the season you’re traveling in and your travel style.

For cruises or a one-hotel trip where you won’t be changing accommodations often, you will only need to think about packing and repacking once. However, if you plan on changing hotels and cities often, you will be packing, unpacking and lugging your suitcase around throughout your trip, meaning you’ll need to have a plan in place. No matter your itinerary, we’ve outlined the best strategies to help you pack more strategically, as well as some essential items to make packing as easy as possible.

The Best Pillows For Side Sleepers, Tested By Our Editors

The 8 best linen sheets for a sweat-free sleep, tested by our experts, what you will need to pack a suitcase:.

• Best Suitcase: Away The Bigger Carry-On
• Best Packing Cubes: Bagsmart Keep Shape Packing Cubes , Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube , JJ Power Travel Shoe Bag
• Best Toiletry Kit: Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit
• Best Tech Kit: ProCase Electronic Organizer
• Best Cosmetics Bag: Eachy Cosmetic Bag
• Best Jewelry Case: Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer Case

Step 1: Consider The Type of Travel

Before you even open your suitcase, you should think about the kind of trip you’re going on and how much space essential items will take up. If you’re packing for a ski trip , you will need to bring heavier, snow-proof gear—but you can re-wear most of it. On a beach trip, your summer outfits will take up less space, but you will need more of them as you lather on sunscreen and deal with sand and sweat.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally also plays a role in how you pack. On a domestic trip, familiar products are easier to find and you don’t need to worry about packing adaptors to charge your electronics. When you’re flying internationally, there may be some necessities that will be difficult or impossible to find abroad.

Step 2: Decide On The Number of Items

After you’ve considered the essentials for the style of your trip, think about how long your trip will be. Short trips can be the easiest to pack for because you can get away with squeezing in a little bit more than you need, while longer trips of two weeks or more are not so bad if you count on doing laundry somewhere along the way. I’ve found that I’m more likely to overpack on a week-long trip when I don’t think I will have a chance to do laundry and want to be prepared for a few different weather scenarios.

Start with this basic breakdown of how many of each item you should aim to pack depending on how long you’ll be traveling for—with optional items included if you’re traveling somewhere you expect to swim. If you plan on hitting the hotel gym or going for a jog or a bike ride, you should also bring along one outfit for working out and a pair of sneakers.

Weekend Trip

For a weekend trip, you really only need three outfits, or four if it’s a three-day weekend. This includes one nice outfit for going out to dinner, but it does not include what you’ll wear on the way to your destination.

• 1-2 bottoms
• 1 dress (optional)
• 1 pajama set
• 1 swimsuit (optional)
• 3 pairs of socks
• 3 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of comfortable shoes
• 1 pair of “going-out” shoes (optional)
• Toiletry bag with essentials (toothpaste, sunscreen, makeup, etc.)
• Chargers and electronics

On a seven-day trip, you will need to pack clothes that can easily be mixed and matched, while prioritizing items that you can use multiple times, like jackets, jeans and sweaters that can handle multiple wears between washes. Always pack extra underwear and socks on a longer trip, especially if you’re doing a lot of physical activity.

• 2-3 bottoms
• 1-2 dresses (optional)
• 1-2 swimsuits (optional)
• 8 pairs of socks
• 8 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of comfortable close-toed walking shoes
• 1 pair of sandals or flip-flops (optional)

Two-Week Trip Or Longer

If you’re traveling for two weeks or longer, you should plan to do laundry at some point during your trip so you can pack less and have a fresh start somewhere in the middle of your travels. However, things don’t always go according to plan, so you should still pack more than one week’s worth of clothes just in case.

• 3-4 bottoms
• 2-3 dresses (optional)
• 8-14 pairs of socks
• 8-14 pairs of underwear

Step 3: Choose The Packing Methods And Products To Help You Pack

If you are flying carry-on only, all of your liquids must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit in a clear quart-sized bag. If you check your luggage you can bring toiletries that go over this size limit, but you should still pack, wrap and secure them tightly in plastic bags so that if they they leak during transit, the rest of your items will not be ruined.

To keep your toiletries organized throughout your trip, you’ll need a hanging bag like the Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit . This particular bag is a great choice as it allows you to see everything laid out just how you left it and it’s quick to pack up. However, if you need more space for a large makeup collection, check out the super spacious and customizable Eachy Cosmetic Bag .

Dress Shirts

To minimize wrinkles in your best shirts, use the narrow fold method. Button up the shirt and lie it flat with the buttons facing down. Fold the sleeves across the back of the shirt and then up at a 90-degree angle until the cuffs line up with the collar. Fold the sides to overlap on top of the sleeves, and fold the fest of the shirt up from the bottom until you have a neat square package. You may still have to iron out the folds when you arrive.

To protect your shoes while traveling, pack them in a separate waterproof bag and fill any empty space with socks or other small soft items that will give them extra protection and help them keep their shape. You can use a plastic bag if you’re in a pinch, but these waterproof shoe bags are specifically designed to hold their shape and have an extra pocket to fit a pair of flip flops.

Packing Cubes

These essential travel tools make a world of difference when it comes to keeping your suitcase organized, but most people use them wrong. Your first instinct might tell you to put pants with pants and shirts with shirts, but the most effective way I’ve found to use packing cubes—especially on a trip with multiple transfers— is to group clothing by activity.

Keep your day-to-day sightseeing clothes in a separate cube from your going-out-for-dinner clothes or beach-gear cube. When it’s time to get dressed, you’ll have your outfit pre-planned and I also find that it’s also a good way to store accessories. For example, I always bring my favorite microfiber beach towel with me, so I keep this in a separate cube with my swimsuits, a beach dress and a sun hat. When I’m not looking for my beach clothes, it doesn’t get in the way and it doesn’t get lost.

I prefer cubes with some shape, like these BagSmart packing cubes , but I also like to mix it up. I’ve found that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube is the best shape for storing my rolled socks and underwear, which I always keep in my carry-on in case my luggage gets lost.

If you love to accessorize, you’ll need a system to prevent your favorite jewelry from getting left behind in random hotel rooms. Instead of bringing along a hard-sided jewelry box which could tangle your necklaces as they get jostled around, try a folding jewelry organizer like this case from BagSmart , available in three sizes.

Electronics

In addition to a good case for your laptop or tablet, you should also have a separate organizer case for all your wires, chargers, portable batteries, and hard drives. If you’re bringing a lot of electronics, protect them with a hard-sided case like this ProCase Electronic Organizer , which has multiple compartments and partitions to keep your gear tangle-free.

Is It Better To Roll Or Fold Clothes In A Suitcase?

If your goal is to fit as much as possible into your suitcase, rolling is the way to go. However, if you need your clothes ready to go as soon as you land and won’t have time for ironing, folding is preferable. The best strategy is to do a bit of both, rolling items like underwear and pajamas, but folding nice shirts and dresses.

What Is The 5 4 3 2 1 Packing Method?

The 5 4 3 2 1 packing method maximizes potential outfit combinations so you can express your personal style. It works by assigning a number to each category of clothing: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 shoes, 2 dresses, and 1 bag. It’s a good jumping-off point, but you may need to adjust the numbers for longer or shorter trips.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

From meticulously testing and reviewing the best luggage to bring with you to the airport to the best packing cubes to keep you organized, we at Forbes Vetted have dedicated ourselves to helping make travel easy. When it came time to put together a guide to packing a suitcase, we applied the same unyielding commitment to ensure that our readers have everything they need on hand to pack for their trips stress-free.

To break down how to pack a suitcase, we tapped the expertise of freelance travel writer Jamie Ditaranto . Along with contributing to Forbes Vetted, Ditaranto has spent the last eight years writing travel content for Condé Nast Traveler , Travel + Leisure , National Geographic and more. She has lived in Mexico, Spain, Portugal and Brazil and has visited all seven continents. As someone who is always packing for a trip, Ditaranto put her first-hand expertise as a frequent packer to the test for this story.

More Packing Guides

• International Travel Packing List
• Ski Trip Packing List
• African Safari Packing List

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15 Best Packing Travel Hacks For Trips Near And Far

N ext time, let’s avoid the huffing and puffing. Enough with the stressing about what to take out of our suitcase so it closes, the wrangling with the overhead bin, the stuck zippers, and the imminent emotional breakdown when airline employees charge us extra for our overweight luggage at check-in.

Truth is, packing for a trip is exciting but stressful. We love choosing the perfect outfits, but worrying about what we forgot sucks. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation, saving space in order to make room for everything is super important, and if it’s done right, leaves you feeling like a Tetris game master! Let’s break down a few of our best packing hacks and tips. Read on to see how to make packing for your next trip a breeze.

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Know The Baggage-Fee Policy 

Knowledge is power. So before you even get started on what to pack, be sure you have the details on your airline baggage policy. Do bags fly free? You will want to know all the baggage fees, weight limits, and carry-on specifications. Trust me, no one wants to see a clothes yard sale at the airport as you pull shirts and skirts from your suitcase and shove them into your daughter’s luggage until the scale shows that magic number.  

Roll Your Clothes 

Master the military-style roll. This doesn’t mean rolling clothes to the tune of “Taps”; you don’t have to enroll in the army to use this one. It is, however, an intelligent fold-and-roll method.

Essentially this simple trick is executed by using a super-tight roll and flattening the clothing material as you go. Not only does this make everything you are packing the optimal size, it’s also a great way of making shirts, pants, and jackets as wrinkle-free as possible. This is my husband’s preferred packing method for saving space in a suitcase, and it keeps his clothes from showing giant creases and fold marks – double victory.

Consider rolling a whole outfit together this way. Just layer your shirt and pants together (maybe even undies and socks) and then roll it up. This is a great idea for traveling with kids. It helps keep an outfit together and makes it easy to put on by themselves (hallelujah). 

Roll those clothes, soldier.

Use your Shoes 

If you’re packing an extra pair, or five, of shoes for your trip, make every inch count. Utilize the inside of the shoes for small items like rolled-up undies, socks, battery chargers, and small bottles of toiletries, like lotion or powder. I like to also wrap my shoes in a plastic grocery sack or a shower cap when I pack them. It helps keep the dirty bottoms of my shoes off of my clean clothes and keeps the inevitable sweaty sneaker smell contained and out of my suitcase. Yea, yea… I know you don’t have smelly feet. Just humor the idea.  

Leave the grime behind, bag ’em up!

Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes for travel are used to organize the contents of a bag since most bags and large pieces of luggage have only one main compartment. They also help save space, as a fabric cube will act like a compression bag by corraling clothes into a tiny space. There are even specific “compression packing cubes” that take this a step further, which we’ll get into a bit later.

The point is, when you’re cramming your life inside a carry-on-sized backpack, you’ll want to save space where you can—and packing cubes is one of the best ways to do that. Plus, they make it super easy to find things if you organize each by like item and they keep things nice and tidy, which if you are anything like me, by day 3, the suitcase looks like a volcano exploded our clothes.

There are a ton of options for packing cubes too. Cotopaxi makes their signature multicolored pouches in all different sizes, which is what I use. Amazon has different packing cube options, sizes and styles to choose from also.  

Organized and oh so pretty.

Use Re-Sealable Bags

Baggies are your #1 best friend. Use them to manage all the things. Especially the small things. I’m not above using ziplock freezer baggies for my packing or suggesting them, either. The resealable plastic bags are so great. You can see everything inside. They are sneaky in the fact that they really do hold a ton of stuff and you can push all the air out of them and make them compressed and compact. Yes, you can also use compression bags designed to do just that. I use the baggies to pack small things that need to stay together, like a hairbrush and elastics or toothpaste AND toothbrush. Instead of finding my son’s toothbrush in my makeup bag, I learned real quick to give him as many ziplock bags as he could possibly need, and then maybe even one more. Not only that, but I throw in a couple of extra resealable bags for my return trip too. I use the extra ones for dirty clothes, wet bathing suits, or the 100 trinkets and pieces of random “memorabilia” my boys seem to find and pocket during our day adventures, like a shiny rock or a penny or a popsicle stick from the “special ice cream store.” If you have young boys, you get it. “Bag it up!”   

No need to jump on anything… Photo Courtesy of Amazon

The Clothing Countdown

We use the packing rule of five. Listen, I try really hard to love it, because I think the logic is spot on, and it is such a great way not to lose your mind when you are trying to pack. But it’s just hard to choose. Anyhow, the rule goes like this: five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, two shoes, two bathing suits, one hat, or one other accessory. That is all you need for a 2-week vacay according to many packing gurus. I’m not sure if this rule jives with Marie Kondo, IYKYK, but that’s a topic for another day…you get the idea with the clothing countdown.  

Sound off! Photo by Angela Bailey on Unsplash

Travel Sized Multi-Taskers

Most of you probably knew about this before I did, but for those of you that are like me, and hadn’t caught on to this travel hack – opting for travel-sized toiletries and make-up that can do double duty is an amazing way to cut down on space in your toiletry bag. Choose a soap and shampoo bar in one or a tinted moisturizer that serves as a foundation and wipes that clean hands and face while removing your make-up too. Also, take advantage of the shower cap, It is a real traveling multi-tasker. It is often left untouched while we are pilfering the tiny shampoo and conditioner from the hotel bathroom but don’t leave it behind. Instead, use the shower cap to wrap up a wet bathing suit or shoes, protecting other items from damp and grime.

Here are our favorite packing travel hacks for family travel. Good for quick weekend getaways and longer family trips.

Pack Cotton Clothes

Unless you love to iron…wait, do people even iron clothes anymore? The point is wrinkle-resistant fabrics make traveling and wearing your favorite outfits so much easier, so maybe skip the rayon and linen and load up on cotton, polyester, cashmere, and wool. It’s the best way to stay wrinkle-free. Sure, cotton and wool may be a bit of a bulkier fabric, but if you adopt the roll-up method, you will have no problem fitting your more forgiving fabrics into your bag or carry-on luggage whether you are taking a quick road trip to the coast or planning for a long trip halfway around the globe. We also love our spray that removes wrinkles if the linen pants must go on the trip.

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Organize and Prioritize

Put the clothes you plan to use first or most often on the top. Or, if you go the cube route, put those items in the same cube. Then you can pull them out quickly and without making a total mess of everything else in your luggage. That’s the hope, anyway. Organize your suitcase with the heaviest items on the bottom and smaller items on the top, this helps with having to pull everything out to find one small travel bag and swearing it’s “somewhere in here.” 

Make a Packing List

When it comes to packing, don’t waste precious time. Start your packing process days or even weeks ahead of your travel date. And make a packing list. It gives you a minute to write down items that you want and need on your vacation. I do this religiously because when you have kids and a job and a partner and a dog, it’s safe to say if momma doesn’t write it down or pack early, she doesn’t pack at all! She’s busy packing everyone else and basically doing all the pre-travel setup. I’m not going to say that creating a packing list will ensure that you don’t forget anything, but odds are definitely in your favor for forgetting fewer things. LOL. 

Get it out of your head to free up space there too!

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Do Laundry While Vacationing

Does your vacation rental or hotel come with washer and dryer amenities or a laundry room? Check out the amenities of your vacation spot. That way, you can pack less, knowing that you will be able to wash your clothes while you are on your vacation. 

Rub-a-dub-dub, it’s laundry time.

Pack Dual-Purpose Outfits

Think about pants that can zip off into shorts or swim trunks that can also be worn as shorts . The same goes for a dress that can be casual for daytime sightseeing and strolling but also dressed up for a special evening out. A jacket that doubles as a travel pillow is another dual-purpose item that can save some space while traveling. 

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Layer, Layer, Layer 

Wear layers and pack in layers. First, your on-the-road wardrobe should feature plenty of layers, which will help you jet-set through multiple climates in style and comfort. Second, the items in your bag should be packed in neat layers for easy screening at airport security. Also, if you are traveling with fragile items, there is no need for bubble wrap. Layering your breakables in between soft clothing can keep them safe from breakage. 

Layer it like your lasagna!

Keep Essential Items Nearby

It’s very important to keep your valuable and essential belongings in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage. Your passport, phone, credit cards, cash, jewelry, electronics, and other valuable and essential items should always be brought onto the plane with you. I also carry a first aid kit, which is always a good idea and essential when traveling with kids because you’ll either need it for a scratch or sometimes the baby doll needs one, am I right? An extra outfit rolled up into a ziplock bag in my carry-on, I consider essential because if you have ever made it to your vacation destination, but your luggage didn’t – well… that ziplock outfit comes in real handy and definitely feels essential. 

One Personal Item 

It’s standard for airlines to permit each traveler to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard planes. Forget wasting your personal item allowance on a small bag or teeny-tiny purse! Bring a larger tote bag that you can easily stash under the seat but still gives you more space for stuff and easy access to your things during the flight. Be sure if you are traveling with kids that you also utilize their personal item allowance wisely too. A tiny unicorn kiddie backpack is cute, but consider a larger backpack that can fit toys, a travel game and quiet pastime activities for a long flight, a blanket, and maybe even a change of clothes as well as that little unicorn backpack. 

Make that personal item work for you!

Best Luggage Choices

Hard-sided, soft-sided, patterned or plain whichever kind of luggage you prefer, there are plenty of brands. I’m a real big fan of matching sets so If I find a polka dot lavender carry-on, there must be a matching, standard suitcase size too, or I’m in a tizzy! If you consider yourself any kind of traveler, Samsonite is a name you know and trust. There is a reason they have been the luggage name of the century – they have good products and good customer service. They know baggage!  OK, not family baggage or emotional baggage but the suitcase variety for sure. TravelPro , is luggage that is well, a pro at traveling. What’s not to love about ultra-premium, lightweight luggage that has tons of pockets and places for stashing stuff?!

It’s important to note that TSA has regulations regarding liquids, gels etc. To that end, they will confiscate a full water bottle from you at security, but you can and should bring an empty water bottle through the screening and fill it up at a water fountain as you head to your gate. They’ve done studies on airplane water tanks , and let’s just say travelers might want to wait on that coffee or tea!

What’s left to say except Bon Voyage!

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LOVEVOOK Large Travel Laptop Backpack Men&Women, 50L Flight Approved Carry On Luggage Waterproof 18inch Backpack Daypack Business Hiking Weekender Overnight Backpack with 3 Packing Cubes, Black

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The LOVEVOOK launched a new travel backpack, you can set off freely as you want. This Laptop backpack is designed for travel, with 50L travel backpack storage space to change as you wish, the backpack carries Separate packing cubes to keep your clothes neat and tidy, Reduces storage troubles and make travel easier. CREATED FOR TRAVEL Airline Approve: Travel backpack size: 19.5*14*8 inches. carry on backpack meets the size required by almost all major airlines and fits in the overhead compartment and under the seat Large Capacity: 40L Travel backpack storage space to change as you wish, the maximum capacity can store 3-5 days of clothes Separate Packing Cubes: The most important thing about traveling is having fun, and not being tied up in chores. Separate packing cubes keep your clothes neat and tidy, Reduce storage troubles, and make travel easier. Feature for LOVEVOOK TRAVEL BACKPACK Water-Resistant: The backpack is made of water-resistant polyester, which can provide safer protection for your belongings in complex and changing weather. Comfortable Backpacks:Breathable and adjustable curved padded shoulder straps help relieve pressure on the shoulders, make you carrying more comfortable. Luggage Strap: Convenient suitcase sleeve helps to free your hand and back, will make your traveling and business trips more convenient. Side Pocket: Side pocket for umbrella, water bottle, etc. Multiple Used: As travel backpack, work backpack, daypack, Business laptop backpack for women and men Multi-Compartment and Pockets: Padded Laptop Compartment: Fits up to 18 inches laptops, 14 inches of tablets and some electronic gadgets. Main Compartment: 50L travel backpack storage space to change as you wish, the maximum capacity can store 3-5 days of clothes Front Compartment: For keyboard, mouse, pen, wallet, purse, glasses, and other items. Front Zipper Pocket: For passport, keys, tissue, earphone box and other small items. The LOVEVOOK laptop backpack aims for work-life balance. Whether you are a digital nomad, or professional businesswoman, except at work don't forget to exercise and eat healthy to keep fit.

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Customers like the portability, adjustability, size, performance, and fit of the backpack. For example, they mention it's wonderful for traveling, has nice hidden compartments, and is easy to wear. They appreciate the performance, saying it works perfectly as a personal carry on. Customers are also impressed with the fit, saying that it fits well on their backs.

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Customers appreciate the size of the backpack. They say it has lots of room for storage for electronics and clothes, and it has many compartments. Some customers also mention that it's durable, sturdy, and has nice hidden compartments and space for laptops. Overall, customers are happy with the size and functionality of the product.

"...I am so happy with this travel bag. It is durable, sturdy and has so many compartments !..." Read more

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Customers are satisfied with the quality of the backpack. They mention that it's well-made, sturdy, and high-quality for the price. They also appreciate the clam shell zipper for the main compartment and the organization inside.

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Customers find the backpack wonderful for traveling with lots of compartments. They say it's easy to travel with, and highly recommend it for long trips or even business. Customers also say it makes travel easy and organized.

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"... Perfect for short trips . 2) The size is perfect as a "personal item" on budget airlines such as Spirit and JetBlue...." Read more

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"...Made of a great quality material. Very durable. It's an overall great travel companion ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the backpack. They mention that it has a cute color, is fashionable to wear, and has striped lining that makes it easier to see things in the bag. Some say that it acts like a real suitcase and has pockets on the inside where they can store items.

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Customers like the fit of the backpack. They say it fits well under the seat on a plane, has enough space to pack a lot, and is easy to carry. The dimensions are correct and the bag is well made. Some customers also mention that the shoe bag is a great addition and can fit a pair of short boots.

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Customers are satisfied with the performance of the backpack. They mention that it has great functionality, works well on an airplane trip, and is sturdy. Some say that the zipper opens like a suitcase but looks like s a backpack. Overall, most are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

"...The color is absolutely beautiful and the quality is very, very good !! I am extremely impressed with this bag…..You Will Not Be Disappointed!..." Read more

"...'s practical - all the pockets, the way the zipper opens, it functions like a suitcase but looks like a backpack. Perfect for short trips...." Read more

"... No issues thru TSA or as a carry on for the flight." Read more

" Worked perfectly as my personal item on the plane. Fit easily under the seat. Stylish and can pack alot in it!..." Read more

Customers like the organization of the backpack. They mention that the cubes really helped to organize and make good use of the space. They appreciate the many pockets and great features.

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US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

The u.s. state department is warning travelers about strict new laws in turks and caicos islands that carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for bringing guns or ammunition to the island: "if you bring a firearm or ammunition into tci, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody", by leslie gaydos • published april 23, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 8:56 pm.

An Oklahoma woman was reunited Tuesday with her young children after being detained for almost two weeks in Turks and Caicos Islands for allegedly violating their strict guns and ammunition law. Her husband is being held in the British Overseas Territory near the Bahamas.

Ryan and Valerie Watson, who live in Oklahoma, left for Turks and Caicos Islands on April 7 to celebrate the 40th birthdays of Ryan and two friends. When they went through security for their return flight, their carry-on was flagged and searched and officials found a Ziploc bag of bullets.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," said Ryan, "and I recognized them and I thought, oh man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there."

The two shared their story virtually with NBC10 Boston last week before their first court hearing. They were stuck on the island, their passports confiscated, separated from their young son and daughter.

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"When I heard that, I immediately was terrified because I was like, we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home. And this is such an innocent mistake that we didn't even know we weren't– we didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being, you know, parentless for, for that long," Valerie said.

The Watsons were questioned and charged with possession of ammunition. In 2022, Turks and Caicos passed an amendment with stiffer penalties for possession of weapons or ammunition, increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence to 12 years.

This is something that we may never recover from Ryan Watson, American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos Islands

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Last September, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel alert warning Americans after a tourist from Indiana got an eight-month prison sentence for possession of ammunition.

The alert says: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the alert continued.

Bryan Hagerich was detained by Turks and Caicos authorities after a family vacation in February when hunting ammunition was found in his luggage before he boarded a flight home. He said the ammunition was found in a bag he frequently used for weekend hunting trips.

"I've been here for almost 70 days now after posting bail. I've been out, right now just waiting to go to the hearing. That's where my case would be heard, then following that would be sentencing," Hagerich said.

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and is awaiting a May 3 court hearing.

"It's incredibly scary. You know, you just don't know what the next day may bring. You know, what path this may take. You know, you're in a completely different culture, a different country by yourself. You know, it's certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It's been the worst 70 days of my life," Hagerich said.

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He and the Watsons are also dealing with the financial strain of paying for an extended stay and being away from their jobs.

"We've already talked, and we're like, what if, you know, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home. And to think that this is going to ruin us..." said an emotional Valerie.

"This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan said.

"I'm just very anxious, eager to get home to my family," said Hagerich. "This has been too long. You know, it's just had so much irreparable harm to my family, that, you know, I just can't continue to see them struggle anymore. I just want to hug my family and start this healing process together."

After their hearing yesterday, Ryan was sent to jail; he was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday. Charges were dropped for Valerie on Monday and she is now back in Oklahoma with her two children.

The judges in Turks and Caicos Islands are able to make exceptions to the mandatory minimum sentence if they determine there are "exceptional circumstances" in a case.

NBC10 Boston reached out to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands' tourism bureau about the Watsons' situation and have not heard back. We contacted the State Department and a spokesperson told NBC10 Boston they are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos and that, "The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas."

The spokesperson added, "When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States… As our security alert from September 22, 2023 states, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted. TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years. If a traveler brings a firearm or ammunition into TCI, the U.S. Department of State will not be able to secure their release from custody. Travelers are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures."

The State Department said they are unable to provide the number of U.S. citizens charged with weapon/ammunition possession since the department is unable to track local arrests.

But law enforcement officials in Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged Wednesday in a statement that three Americans are out on bail in such cases.

"The Firearms Ordinance applies to all persons present within the Turks and Caicos Islands regardless of status or origin," read the statement from the offices of the attorney general and the director of public prosecution.

pic.twitter.com/Kz31Ng5wJk — TCIG Communications Directorate (@TCIG_Press) April 24, 2024

Also Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a new statement urging all travelers to take care looking for weapons or ammunition when leaving the U.S.

" Carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States ," the warning says in bold, going on to note that enforcement in Turks and Caicos Islands is strict, legally declared weapons aren't allowed in the territory and TSA screening may not turn up ammunition in baggage on the way out of the country.

" If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the statement said.

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German bed pillows give me nightmares. Next time I go to Berlin, I'm bringing my own.

• We need to talk about the German "crumple pillow" that baffles foreigners.
• On a recent trip to Berlin , this massive square pillow made getting a good night's sleep impossible.
• It doesn't seem to have redeeming health benefits, so I'm bringing my own next time I'm in Germany. 

I never paid much mind to the pillow I rest my head on at night until I went to Berlin.

Germany's capital is known for its cool vibes, artsy cultural scene, and unique history, but the country's truly terrible bed pillows are seared into my memory.

They drove my boyfriend and me to distraction — first because of the discomfort, then over the lunacy of it all.

A classic German bed pillow is a monstrosity measuring 31 by 31 inches (80 by 80 centimeters if you're local). In comparison, a standard US pillow is 20 by 26 inches. I don't know how big your head is, but I daresay that's plenty of space for it.

The first night in Berlin, we shrugged at the unusual format and went to bed, our heads teetering on the edges of two giant pillows that stretched out far above. We chuckled — experiencing different cultures is the fun of travel!

But a few hours later, I woke up. Why was my head resting on the mattress? The pillow was still there, but it didn't look the same. All the stuffing had somehow migrated into a halo, hugging the corners of the pillowcase, leaving the center empty and flat.

No wonder my neck was complaining: This pillow provided no more support than a T-shirt. Confused, I scooped it up, tucked the edges in like a bread loaf, and went back to sleep. But the same thing happened a few more times that night, and the next night too.

The pillow kept unfurling, and with it, my sanity.

Fighting his own nocturnal pillow battle, my boyfriend got a tip from the Germany subreddit that worked OK: Take the bottom corners of the pillow and push them upwards inside the cover, until they meet the top corners.

This gave us a pillow that more resembled a standard US one, and crucially, it mostly stayed in place, so we only had to repeat the process once or twice per night.

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But we were perplexed. It was the first thing we discussed each morning, freshly frustrated and unable to let it go.

A lot of people have beef with the pillows of Germany — but some like them for cuddling

We weren't alone in our struggle.

The first Google result for "German pillows" is " German pillows are a crime against sleep, " an article by travel blogger Ryan Murdock who writes: "I've devoted a considerable amount of time to thinking about those giant square pillows. … Only a giraffe could use one of those square sleep thieves without suffering acute spinal discomfort."

I kept digging, and I learned that although the giant marshmallow pillow is the German standard, other sizes are now also available across the country.

This made the pillows even more confusing: Why would a pragmatic people like the Germans continue to choose this miserable situation? Instead of a nightly tucking project, you could just have a pillow that stays put, leaving you to sleep in blessed peace.

Back in the Germany subreddit, defenders explained that they enjoy laying flat on the mattress actually, while others said they really like "cuddling" these pillows.

Before you say that's just some weirdos on the internet, these pillows are actually known as "knautschkissen," which can roughly translate to "crumple cushion." The restlessness created by these ridiculous things may actually be by design.

"I like to cuddle my pillow. But I also like to fight and box it at night," Juliane Hedderich, managing director of the Association of the German Down and Feather Industry, told The Wall Street Journal in 2022.

The article then postulates that Germany's large pillows are a heritage of the country's love of feather and down, a habit they picked up from the Romans.

That's cool and all, but I'll just point out that present-day Romans in Italy have perfectly pleasant and unremarkable pillows.

Sorry, Berlin, I've crumpled my last pillow.

Wanting to keep an open mind, I called Dr. Kien Vuu , assistant professor of Health Sciences at UCLA. Maybe there's a health benefit to these mega pillows I'm not aware of.

"There's no one size fits all for pillows," said Vuu, author of " Thrive State: Your Blueprint for Optimal Health, Longevity and Peak Performance ." He recommends choosing a pillow that will "allow your body to best fit in its natural alignment."

A low-profile pillow like a slack German specimen may suit a stomach sleeper, as it won't cause neck strain. But Vuu doesn't think it would do much for back or side sleepers , who seem to make up the majority of adults .

"You probably do need some support to support that normal curvature of the neck," said Vuu, who recommends choosing a pillow based on how your body feels in the morning: If you're in pain, you probably need to change things up.

That's certainly what I'll be doing. We're living in the time of a growing multibillion-dollar sleeping-pillow market — we don't need to sacrifice a good night's sleep even when we're traveling.

Next time I go to Germany, I'm bringing a pillow from home. As silly as that may sound, the improved sleep will be worth the extra checked-bag charge.

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