short trip list

HOW TO PACK FOR A SHORT TRIP DURING COVID? (OR HOW NOT TO OVERPACK) TRAVEL CHECKLIST

Short trips have many challenges, and the ongoing pandemic is not making things easier. First of all, it’s the lack of time in general that makes us plan much more thoroughly than usual so that we can enjoy our trip to the fullest. Packing for a short trip (let’s say this kind of trip lasts no more than 3 days) as well as packing for a day trip is also among those challenges.

First-time travelers may think it’s a hard task, but it’s definitely something you should practice over time. Getting ready like this is difficult because you need to pack all the necessities and travel items you usually bring on your trip without overpacking and bringing loads of extra clothes and stuff.

And then there are also new additions that have to be included to prevent the coronavirus from spreading, plus the documents you need to have to show that you’ve been vaccinated, don’t have the virus, or have already beaten the disease.

To help you with your packing for a short trip, we came up with four categories that you should always pack and have around. Let’s go through them, one category at a time.

WHICH HYGIENE AND ANTI-COVID PRODUCTS TO TAKE ON A TRIP?

Hygiene is the most important category because it contains the most personal items, items associated with your everyday rituals and practices. Also, most of the items from the list you won’t be able to borrow from the people you’re traveling with, since people mostly don’t share them.

And since the coronavirus is still out there, you will need to also pack some items that will keep you healthy no matter where you go.

In case your hotel provides something from the list above, you can cross it off, but if you can’t count on them waiting for you in your room these are the essentials you should always pack.

The items from this category include:

• – Toothbrush and toothpaste (travel size)
• – Floss and mouthwash
• – Deodorant and perfume (if you’re traveling with hand luggage, make sure the type and the size of the deodorant pass the airport’s guidelines)
• – Gel lotion, shampoo, conditioner and body milk (the best option is to use silicone travel bottles and bring only a small amount of your home products)
• – Packed-in makeup and makeup remover wipes
• – Hairbrush
• – Shaving kit
• – Panties (number of days + 1)
• – Other underwear (this includes also a swimming suit)
• – Pajamas or sleepwear
• – Socks (number of days + 2)
• – Slippers (instead of packing your home slippers, you can buy a pack of thin and foldable slippers so that you have them for other travels)
• – Towel (compressed towels take up less space in your luggage)
• – Labeled prescription medication and some pain relievers
• – Band-aids (pack a few band-aids of different sizes)
• – Eyewear and lenses

Obviously, since COVID-19 is still out there, you need to think about staying safe from the coronavirus during your trip, too. Don’t worry, it can be done, just make sure you pack the following:

• Face masks for adults (preferably face masks with removable filters)
• Face masks for children if any are coming along with you
• Hand sanitizer
• Anti-bacterial wipes
• Smartphone sanitizer

There are also several other things that may not be absolutely necessary but can make your life easier, such as a face shield, for example.

WHICH ACCESSORIES SHOULD I PACK FOR A TRIP?

The second category of things to pack for a short trip is accessories. Now, this includes everything from your shoes to your phone. We have simply divided it into four main sub-categories so that it’s easier for you to follow. Most of the things from this category are not essential but can help you a lot. However, think twice before packing anything from the list.

• – Shoes – always make sure to check the weather forecast before packing your shoes. If there’s even a slight possibility of rain, make sure to pack some waterproof shoes. In case you plan to walk 5+ hours a day, forget about heels and uncomfortable shoes or sandals, since blisters can really ruin the whole trip.
• – Scarf – scarf is one of the most useful travel items. It can serve as a fashion accessory, as a blanket, as a cover when visiting a religious site or as a hidden pocket for money and travel documents.
• – Belt
• – Phone, Tablet, Laptop
• – Camera
• – Power Bank (Portable Charger) – this little gadget can be super-useful on your trips
• – Charger – something many people forget when packing
• – Headphones
• – Electric converters and adapters

Watches, rings, earrings and necklaces you usually wear and don’t feel uncomfortable wearing

Entertainment and Comfort

• – Books and magazines (books can really be lifesavers on a bus or plane or while you’re waiting between flights; however, they can take up a lot of space, so many people use Kindle instead of packing real books when traveling.)
• – Travel games or cards – there are some great travel-sized board games at Amazon, so you won’t need to carry your Monopoly with you.
• – Travel pillow , blanket, eye mask , earplugs

Weather and climate supplies

• – Umbrella – if there’s even a slight possibility of rain, packing an umbrella is advised. Luckily, there are many light and compact umbrellas that don’t take require space in your luggage.
• – Raincoat – most raincoats don’t take up much space, so they can be an even better option than an umbrella.
• – Windbreaker
• – Hat – weather it’s the woolen cap that keeps you warm during winter or a baseball cap, most of the time you’ll need some kind of hat.
• – Sunglasses
• – Sunblock
• – Mosquito repellent

WHICH CLOTHES SHOULD I PACK FOR A TRIP?

Clothes is the trickiest category, and it should come last when packing your luggage so that you can see how much space you have left. The first thing you should do is to check the weather forecast.

Since you only have a few days on your trip, make sure to plan out what you’re going to wear depending on the weather conditions. On top of that, you can pack one extra shirt, but nothing more than that. Don’t pack shorts if it’s going to snow. Don’t wear black long jeans if it’s going to be hot. In the shoulder season, always pack more layers instead of one heavy piece of clothes. Pick cotton and natural fabrics so that you don’t sweat much. After you’re done with packing, review once more the clothes you’re going to wear. If you don’t have any doubts, you’re ready to go.

HOW TO PACK MONEY AND DOCUMENTS FOR A TRIP?

After you’re done with your clothes, you’re actually done with the luggage. In case you’re still searching for the right suitcase, check out the bestsellers on Amazon.

This last category actually fits in most small bags you can find, but it includes the most important stuff that should be kept in a safe place, apart from your other luggage.

• – Money
• – Credit cards
• – Travel Insurance
• – Passport or ID – make sure to keep your passport protected in a passport holder
• – Important Travel Documents (such as a boarding pass and hotel information)

However, COVID-19 has had a major impact in this aspect of trip planning too, so now you will have to show documents related to the virus when you cross pretty much any border in the world. 

These depend on whether or not you’ve been vaccinated or have recovered from the disease, but no matter your status, you will have to have one of the following:

• a COVID passport: depending on where you’re from, you may have to have your EU Digital COVID Certificate, your NHS Covid Pass, your ArriveCAN app, or some other digital proof of vaccination. The US currently doesn’t have such an app on the federal level, but there are some in individual states.
• If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, you will have to show that you took a PCR test no more than three days before your trip and that you tested negative. If you’re visiting the US, however, you MUST be fully vaccinated in order to be allowed to enter.
• If you’ve recovered from COVID-19 recently, you can use the documentation proving that to get around. For example, you may need to show a positive COVID-19 and a confirmation from your doctor saying that you’ve recovered. Keep in mind, though, that you can only use this method for several months, depending on the country.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider. Still, there are some things that are widely regarded as top travel items, so maybe you should focus on them first. 

Either way, dividing your luggage like this can make your life (and your suitcase) a whole lot easier. 

Just don’t forget to pack things that help keep you and the others safe from COVID-19. At a time like this, travelers have a big responsibility to stay safe because they can help the virus spread much faster.

Oh, and always take the weather conditions into consideration and pack accordingly. With just a little bit of planning, you can have a great trip every single time!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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• Packing Lists

Weekend Trip Packing List: What to Bring for a 3-Day Getaway

Published September 16, 2023

Written by:

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

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

Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen is a co-founder of Tortuga. He also works as a screenwriter and director. Aside from travel and...

The Tortuga Promise

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

Table of Contents

Weekend trips seem like they should be the easiest ones to pack for. But they always end up being the hardest.

Weekends should be simple. The trip is short, the weather won’t vary much, and you probably know what you’ll be doing.

But packing light for a weekend trip can pose a challenge. We all tend to pack as much as we can fit, not just what we need. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or a month, you’ll probably fill your backpack or suitcase. When you have the space, you start adding stuff you’ll never need, like an extra pair of shoes or a just-in-case outfit.

Your stuff will expand to fill your bag.

To combat this tendency, stick to a short weekend trip packing list and pack a small bag.

3-Day Weekend Packing List

Let’s start off with a quick checklist for a three-day, two-night weekend trip. The packing list below assumes that you leave on Friday, stay Friday and Saturday nights, then return home on Sunday.

For clothing, we’ve included your travel day (or in-flight) clothing in the packing list.

• 1 pair of shoes
• 3 sets of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks (1-2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks )
• 1 set of pajamas
• Toiletry bag
• Water bottle
• Phone, charger , and earbuds or headphones
• Book or Kindle

Consider at least one “nice” outfit depending on your plans. Dressing up—especially if you don’t have to—can make a nice dinner feel like a special occasion when you’re traveling.

Optional Add-Ons

• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Hat, scarf, and/or gloves for winter trips

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

• Thick comfortable straps
• Easy to organize
• Durable, waterproof fabric
• Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

Travel Day Outfit

The outfit you wear to travel should be the bulkiest outfit of the trip, especially if you’re flying. Wear your biggest, heaviest clothes—jeans, sweater, boots, jacket—so that you can save space in your bag. If you’re too warm, you can always remove a layer after takeoff and store it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

If you’re flying, your travel outfit should include a  light jacket with zippered pockets. The pockets will provide extra space for packing things like your wallet, phone, chapstick, boarding pass, and other travel day essentials . The zippers will keep your stuff secured when you go through airport security.

Shoes are always a challenge when packing. It’s easy to convince yourself that you need a second pair, even for a three-day trip. Resist this temptation. Instead, pack one pair of shoes  you can wear all weekend. Your shoes must be comfortable enough for walking all day but nice enough to wear out to dinner.

In the winter, choose warm, comfortable boots. Sandals or sneakers work well in nicer weather. You can always add flip flops for the beach or pool if needed. Most will fit in your backpack’s water bottle pocket.

Electronics

Be careful not to overpack electronics. For such a short trip, you can leave your work computer at home. Since you’ll either be driving or taking a short flight, skip the tablet too. Your flight might be too short to watch a movie anyway.

A Kindle is my favorite in-flight entertainment for short trips. You’ll also have your phone and earbuds if you prefer to listen to music or a podcast.

When it comes to toiletries, take only the essentials. If you can live without it or survive with a different brand for a day or two, leave it at home.

Choose a hotel or an Airbnb that provides basics so that you don’t have to bring soap or shampoo.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Contact solution, if needed
• Basic makeup, if needed
• Soap, shampoo, and conditioner (only if not provided by your accommodation)

Consider if you can pool resources and share the packing burden with your travel companions. Do you each need to bring your own bottle of sunscreen or can one person bring a bottle for everyone to share?

If you forget anything, just grab a cheap option at your destination. You can bring home any leftovers so that you aren’t being wasteful.

Long Weekend Packing List

If you’re staying over Sunday night and heading home on Monday, use this list instead.

• 4 sets of underwear
• 4 pairs of socks (2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks )
• Phone, charger, and earbuds or headphones

Wedding Weekend Packing List

Weddings may require packing a bit more.

You’ll need an extra pair of shoes and one or two extra outfits so that you’re always dressed appropriately. In addition to dress clothes for the wedding, consider what you’ll need for the rehearsal dinner or Sunday morning activities if either will be part of the festivities.

• 2 pairs of shoes (1 pair for the wedding, 1 pair for everything else)
• 5 outfits (1 casual outfit for each day plus the wedding and rehearsal dinner)
• 4 pairs of socks (3 casual, 1 dress)

Best Weekend Backpack

We recommend packing a bag that’s made for travel—not just the old duffel at the back of your closet—especially if you’re flying. You’ll need a bag that’s optimized for packing , getting through security, and being accessible in-flight. Depending on how and what you’re packing, we recommend two options.

Why You Should Pack Last Minute

Packing last minute sounds sacrilegious, especially for Type A travelers. But hear me out.

You don’t need to bring much for a weekend getaway, so you won’t need much planning or packing time.

If you wait until the night before your trip to pack, you can be even more efficient. Check the weather last minute so that you know it won’t change (much). By then, you’ll also know your weekend plans and can pack and dress accordingly.

No need to worry about any “just in case” stuff.

Pack a small backpack and limit yourself to one outfit (or less) per day.

Related Articles

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Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

Read more from Fred

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

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Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

General Packing Tips & Tricks

Check the weather at your destination.

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

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

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

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Choose the right luggage.

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

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

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

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

Essentials first.

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

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

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

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

Lay everything out.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUT STUFF BACK!

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

Pack it up.

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

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

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

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Pack liquids in secure bags.

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

Utilize shoe space when you can.

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

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

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

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

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

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

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

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

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

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

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

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

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

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

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember to:

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

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Do packing cubes really save space?

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

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

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

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

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

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

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

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

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

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

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

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

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

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The Ultimate Weekend Packing List

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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When it comes to packing for a weekend trip, the contents of your suitcase (or backpack/duffel, if you’re flying Spirit ) will depend on what you’re doing. But whether it’s a ski trip, a wedding, a thrilling outdoor adventure, or a beach getaway that dictates you pack mostly bathing suits, you’ll want to consult a list of all the items you could possibly want in your arsenal, and narrow it down accordingly.

Some things you can leave off your weekend packing list, however. This includes any toiletries you could go a couple of days without, especially in lieu of whatever the hotel has: shower toiletries and hair-styling tools included. Can you use the hotel blow dryer instead of your own? Probably. Can you go even further by forgoing shaving supplies for a couple of days? Not a bad idea—but it’s ultimately up to you, and what you will need once you’re in the destination.

Here’s what to think about bringing for your weekend getaway, and what to leave in order not to overpack, from toiletries to gadgets and beach necessities.

What to Pack for a Weekend Trip

Think about what you’re going to actually be doing and plan outfits for each day to narrow down your clothing needs. You can do the same with toiletries, electronics, and essentials: What will your few days away actually demand? Only bring those things.

Items that you might usually bring but can forget about for a few days include a first-aid kit, shaving supplies, your full-size makeup bag (maybe just put the essentials into a smaller sleeve ) or bulky shaving kit, and the unnecessary bathroom items that you can get for free at the hotel, like moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, and a comb.

Aftersun/aloe and bug spray might also not be necessary—or could be available on-site wherever you’re staying. Because most weekend trips aren’t international, we’ve left off most medications and similar over-the-counter items you can easily buy if you end up needing them.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hair-styling products
• Glasses and/or contact lenses/solution
• Makeup/makeup remover/any other face necessities
• Feminine hygiene products
• Medicines/birth control/vitamins you need daily
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen/lip balm with SPF
• Disposable wipes

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Beach Gear  

If you’re taking a beach trip, the packing gods rejoice: Most necessities are small and worth throwing in your bag. Just forget the bulky items like a beach umbrella, beach chairs, snorkel gear, and floatation devices (what hotel doesn’t have these nowadays?). Don’t bother with coolers or beach safes unless you’re driving, and towels can also probably be found at the resort. The only few things left to consider are:  

• Waterproof phone case
• Portable speaker
• Bathing suits
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Collapsible beach bag

Shop Our Beach Packing List on Amazon

Clothes/Accessories  

If you’re not planning on heading to the gym, forget the athletic shoes and workout gear and walk everywhere instead. In fact, try to narrow your shoes down to one pair that you can wear the whole time. Leave behind pricey jewelry you might lose and won’t need for a few days. But don’t skimp on clothes, and ones you love to wear—you’ll want to be comfortable so you can focus on the destination. It’s unlikely you need all of the following, but here’s what to consider:  

• One pair of versatile, casual shoes
• Undershirts/bras
• Jeans/pants
• Dresses/skirts
• Light jacket/sweater
• Small purse/clutch
• Athletic shoes
• Workout gear

Shop Our Clothing Essentials Packing List

Travel Essentials

Every trip demands a reusable water bottle and some snacks for the road, but you can probably leave behind longer-trip necessities like a laptop, emergency contacts, and an itinerary (or just keep the latter info in your phone).

• Water bottle
• Passport/ID
• Credit cards

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Electronics

Aside from the usual phone, chargers, and maybe a small tablet for reading, go light on the electronics for a few days—you don’t have too much time to explore, after all. But if you’re flying with strict weight limits, as most weekend-getaway flights are basic-economy, you might also want to stash a portable luggage scale in your bag.

• Kindle/tablet
• Electronic chargers
• Headphones or earbuds
• Portable luggage scale

Shop Our Packable Travel Gadgets List

Other Weekend Getaway Packing Tips

What’s Essential: If you only leave the house with a tote bag’s worth of things, they should be your wallet (ID, cards, maybe some cash), whatever toiletries you require (medications, toothbrush/toothpaste, and makeup and/or face and hair creams you need daily), and a handful of versatile clothing items you love to wear. All of those things can fit into a pretty small amount of space, basic-economy restrictions be damned.

Secret Weapon: Packing cubes that are on the smaller side can help compress everything you need and organize it by type. Also, consider that you’re probably allowed both a carry-on bag and a personal item—which makes a roomy personal item bag a great hack for getting more onto the plane.

Leave at Home: When it comes to a three- to four-day weekend, no one needs half the stuff they pack into their suitcase for a usual longer trip. Step away from the large electronics, any unnecessary creams or gels (the hotel or rental’s will probably suffice for the few days), outfits you’ve never worn before, and pairs of shoes that are questionable when it comes to comfort.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Packing for Europe: 8 Items You Should Leave at Home
• The Ultimate Packing List
• The Essential International Packing List

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What to Pack for a Weekend Away Packing List

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Wondering what to pack for a weekend away? Babe, you are at the right spot. We are masters of weekend trips – from road trips, business travel, and urban wanderings to nature parks. This weekend away packing list is all you need to stay stylish as well as have a blast on your trip.

We have also included essential items and some key tips that you must keep in mind, considering today’s ever-changing situation and our new normal!

After having traveled to over 25+ countries and multiple weekend trips in over 12+ years, we now have everything crafted to a T, and we are eager to share our secrets! 

But first off, let’s give you the ESSENTIAL trip packing list!

What to pack for a weekend away packing list

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

• Weekender bag – Backpack or duffel bag
• 1 Comfortable, wear all long long shoes (or boots during winter. Optional sandals/flip flops if heading to the beach)
• 1 pair of comfortable pants/jeggings/shorts/leggings. My favorite leggings here from Lululemon
• 2 – 3 t-shirts or tops (optional fancy top for Saturday night outs or fancy dinners)
• 2 pairs of undergarments
• 2 pairs of socks 
• 1 Nightwear
• 1 lightweight jacket, preferable waterproof
• For Winter – Winter jacket or parka
• For Winter – Thermal wear or long johns
• For Winter – Scarf 
• For Winter -Gloves
• For Winter – Beanie or warm cap
• Moisturizer
• Toothpaste & toothbrush
• Basic makeup items (I don’t leave the house without my eyeliner and foundation!)
• Lipstick/lip balm
• Medications/ contact lens solution

Electronics

• Multi-port charger
• Camera (optional, we like to carry it all the time)
• Headphones (optional)
• Kindle (optional)

Other Accessories/Essentials

• Beach mat & towel (if heading for a beach trip for the weekend)
• Packing cubes
• Reusable water bottle

Essential documents

• Cash, credit cards, and wallet
• Park permits (if heading to state/provincial parks)
• Hotels, tours, or attractions booking

Essentials in today’s new normal

• Face mask (if mandated or required in the state/province you live in)
• Hand sanitizer

Pro Packing Tips 1 : Packing Light

It is super important to pack light, regardless of your trip duration (weekends or a month-long trip). I carefully decide my outfits ahead of travel depending on the city or parks I am visiting, and the landmarks or attractions I am (or Salil) photographing. 

It’s like this when you wake up in the morning for work and find that you have nothing to wear. I know I do, even though my closet is full of clothes.

Now, imagine if you were to pick your outfits over the weekend for the next work week, and match the purse and accessories (like scarf or jewelry), you will be so relaxed and put together in the morning!

It is the same for weekend trips. If you plan the outfits ahead of time, all you have to do on the day is just enjoy!

Here are some detailed items for a vacation packing list, and styling options for dazzling your weekend!

Favourite Travel Backpack: Overall BEST

A trip essential, this anti-theft travel backpack is our absolute favorite on road trips, long-distance getaways, and beyond. It is also carry-on approved!

Pacsafe Venturesafe 45 Litre Backpack

Best Weekender Bags: Duffel Bag for road trips

My personal favorite piece of luggage for a weekend away is a duffel bag. I am in LOVE with the Peak Design Duffel bag , which has a waterproof bottom. This makes it convenient if the bag happens to sit on a wet surface. 

This duffel bag is super stylish, and it can be converted into a backpack with its removable padded top handles and padded shoulder strap. I enjoy carrying it as a duffel bag as it can sit inside the car or inside the aircraft as a carry-on. 

But it’s nice to know that it has the versatility to transform into a backpack. The backpack size is 35 litres, which is perfect for a weekend away. 

Peak Design bag is made up of recycled 600D nylon canvas shells, and they offer a lifetime warranty on all of its products.

Click this link to view Peak Design Travel Duffel bag

Best Weekender Bags: Backpacks for long-distance trips

Salil loves to carry his backpack. And when we are traveling overseas (like in Europe), we prefer an anti-theft backpack for ease of travel, and peace of mind, knowing that our belongings are safe inside.

For a quick weekend away pack your clothing and valuables inside a 25-35 litre backpack, which is perfect for a light 2 day trip.

Pacsafe 25L daypack is made up of an anti-cut, slash-proof backpack, and its size is generous to fit all of the weekend essentials. It is lightweight, so you can also carry it around all day long while exploring and sightseeing. 

Daypack 25 L: Click to view Pacsafe Daypack

During our late-fall and winter weekend trips to Europe, we carry a slightly bigger backpack (the same backpack we use for 2-week trips). A generous size is needed to carry woolens or scarves, warm socks, etc. that take up a lot of room.

Our top pick is the Pacsafe Venturesafe 45L (REI)

This backpack size is still carry-on approved as a personal item and light to carry. It opens up like a suitcase so you can store clothing and cosmetics in neatly placed packing cubes and see where everything is.

As always Pacsafe is made up of world-class anti-theft material – perfect for overnight train travels, in-flights, etc. 

Click to view prices from REI for Pacsafe Venturesafe (REI)

Travel Backpack 45 L: Click to view Pacsafe Venturesafe (Amazon)

Ultimate Weekend Packing List

Now let’s start packing,

1 Comfortable, wear all day long shoes 

I carry one pair of comfortable walking shoes. They are useful in-flight, nature trails and parks, as well as road trips. My KEEN Explore shoes are waterproof, were essentially made for hiking trails, and are super durable and comfortable to wear. Click to view my favorite walking shoes from KEEN Footwear.

If you are heading to a fancy dinner, add a pretty ballerina or kitty heels.

Heading to the beach or traveling in the summer, pack a comfy sandal or flip-flops. 

Winter months call for warmer boots. Carry one pair of warm boots to wear all weekend. Click to check out this mid-length boot for winter.

1 pair of comfortable pants / jeggings/ shorts/ leggings

Wear a comfortable pair of pants – easy in and easy out. I prefer to carry my Lululemon leggings inflight or even on trails. I also paired them with flowy tops when I was visiting Vancouver on a weekend .

Here are my favorite Lululemon pants

You might also like these warm tights/leggings available on REI

Comfortable jeans aka jeggings are my second favorite. They look like skinny jeans but are stretchable and comfortable like leggings. I have been wearing American Eagle Jeggings for 8 years now. 

And I tried so many brands, and keep coming back to AE – they have jeggings in sizes SHORT, REGULAR, and LONG. At 5.2 inches tall, and with a petite frame, these jeggings are perfection! View the popular jeggings from AE here 

I like to change up bottoms, so I carry one of each. But you can also wear the same pants all weekend if you want. 

2 – 3 t-shirts or tops

If you are traveling for the long weekend (3 days) carry 3 tops or shirts. Carry a nicer top (or even outfit) for a Saturday night out or fancy dinners.

Optional: Traveling for business or events

Carry your suit or fancy dress if you are heading for a work event or wedding over the weekend.

Don’t forget to match your accessories and purse. Only pack what you will be wearing, extra bags/purses, ties, and accessories are no good for a quick trip. Pack light, leave out the guesswork, and carry what you really want to wear!

2 pairs of socks

At a minimum carry 2 pairs of socks. If you are hiking over the weekend, opt for extra socks (add +1) and ensure they are moisture-wicking.  Click to view these amazing socks available on REI

Fresh socks and feet will keep you happy all weekend long!

2 pairs of undergarments and 1 night wear

Pack your undergarments per day, and one night wear. 

1 lightweight jacket, preferably waterproof

A lightweight jacket is a must for road trips or outdoor-sy weekends. Opt for something that is waterproof so that you wear it if its rains.

Click to view my favorite rain jacket – lightweight and waterproof for all weekend trips

For Winter – Winter jacket or parka, thermal wear or long johns and scarf

My winter packing list might be a little extreme, but c’mon it makes it easy when I am all bundled up and I can run, dance, fall, and slide in the snow. First off, wear or carry a warm jacket.

Layering is essential. Carry thermal wear or long johns (1 or 2) and wear them before you venture out.

Winter accessories are essential to keep you warm and toasty. Grab a scarf, gloves, and a colorful beanie or warm cap, and you are all dolled up for the winter!

Check out Canada winter packing list

A luxury style option: Trendy belt or scarf

Pro Packing Tips 2: I like to alleviate my weekend outfits with a little pop of color or trendy accessories. Although these pieces are pricey and luxurious, there is no harm in owning 1-2 statement pieces that you can mix and match on multiple trips.

This way the cost per wear comes down, plus you get to look like a million bucks – buy investing in a piece once.

My current faves: Gucci Belt, Burberry Scarf 

(PS: My Gucci has traveled with me to Barcelona, Zurich, Split, and counting!)

• Gucci Belt : Click to view Gucci belt
• Burberry Scarf: Click to view

Electronics + Gear travel checklist for weekend getaways 

We never leave without our cell phones . But don’t forget to pack the phone charger.

Nowadays cell phones can also capture great photos, but if you are like us and enjoy photography carry your lightweight mirrorless camera. Note: Don’t forget the charger.

Pro Packing Tips 3: Buy a multiport charger to charge all of your electronics . Carry one and done!

• Camera: We are currently using our Sony a7iii on our weekend trips, and love it. There is a learning curve, but we are enjoying it so far. Click to view Sony a7iii
• In the past, we enjoyed taking pictures from our lightweight and mirrorless Sony A6000 and our iPhones. Click to view prices for Sony A6000
• Kindle: We own a Kindle and carry it sometimes when we head to the mountains in Banff or to enjoy a reading inflight. Grab your Kindle right here
• Leave your work laptop! It’s time to rejuvenate 

Toiletry Kit : Ultimate weekend packing list  

Whether I am flying or road tripping to the mountains, my toiletry kit, and makeup essentials are the same. I prefer carrying small size containers in a neatly packed cosmetic pouch. 

I like the Truffle case – easy to store and is transparent. I found a cheaper version on ETSY. Check it out here

Here is what I carry, and all of my cosmetics, creams, and lotions are bought from Sephora

• Moisturiser

Other Essentials: Most important is sunglasses!

Sunglasses are SUPER important. They make you look amazing, totally in vacation mode and they also provide eye protection. A MUST HAVE in my travel purse.

I love my RayBan Erika sunglasses. It is very rare that you will find me without one in my pictures. And the awesome thing is that, even if you are tired (and didn’t sleep well the night before), you will still look as dazzling and sparkling as ever!

Pro Packing Tips 4: Pick up a fancy pair of shades today!

Here are some optional items: 

• Beach mat & towel (if heading to the beach)

Don’t forget the essential documents : Weekend trip packing list  

• Hotels, tours, or attractions booking documents/emails

Weekend getaway packing essentials in today’s new normal :

As we are embarking on a new normal, here are some essential items that you must carry. 

• Face mask (if mandated or required in the state/province you live in) – Check out ETSY for face masks
• Carry hand sanitizer , and wash your hands often
• Tissue – Use that to open or close doors, and wipe surfaces before planning your sunglass, phone, or camera down

Before you travel, for sure, always check the individual park/town or city to see if attractions and restaurants are open. Many state parks will have precautionary measures and guidelines for visitors to follow. Check out – Recreate Responsibly guidelines here 

Many attractions and landmarks are open with timed entry, whilst maintaining social distance and other precautionary measures. 

When you travel domestically or internationally, it is important to check any local guidelines, and rules, and pay attention to weather warnings, etc.

When in doubt, check the embassy or consulate’s official websites. Plus all federal and provincial/state parks have rules or guidelines laid out. All we have to do is ensure we follow them for our safety and for others.

We hope you found this post on packing for a weekend trip and related travel tips useful. If you need a planner and a packing checklist to create your weekend getaway, sign up below!

Traveling and need these items last minute? Sign up for Amazon Prime and get FREE Two-Day Shipping

Read other travel packing lists and travel gear guides : Travel Inspiration

• Mexico Packing List here
• Cuba Packing List here
• Morocco Packing List here
• Long Haul Flight Essentials here
• Travel Essentials for women here
• What to pack for a snow or ski trip here
• Travel Jackets for women here
• Guide to anti-theft backpacks here
• Shoes for Europe travel here

Pin: Ultimate Packing List for the weekend checklist for a weekend getaway

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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What to Pack for A Weekend Away? An Expert’s Guide

So you’re heading off on a short break and wondering what to pack for a weekend away? I’ve created the weekend packing list to help you plan the perfect trip.

Packing for a weekend away is a difficult task so here are some tips for travel packing.

Pack too much and you’re lugging around a ridiculous amount of luggage for your weekend break, pack too little and you end up having to buy things that you’ve forgotten and left at home.

Who knew travelling was such a tough gig?

I’ve been a travel writer for over seven years, and have been low-level obsessed with travelling for pretty much as long as I can remember.

Sure, that’s nice for me but why do you care? Because I’ve travelled a hella lot, and with a lot of travelling comes a lot of packing.

In truth, it’s taken practice for me to ace the packing game.

I’ve had way too many trips where I’ve got my packing all wrong – from forgetting basic weekend trip essentials such as phone chargers, to packing bags that have been too heavy for carry on and having to pay extra to check them in.

It’s frustrating and detracts from the real star of the show – your weekend away.

So, one day, I sat down and said No More.

No more rubbish packing. I created a foolproof system for acing the weekend away packing list. And now I’m sharing it with you.

What’s in this Weekend Packing Guide? 

I’ve included insider tips and tricks to help you pack for your weekend trip, followed by the weekend packing list and some variations on the list that are suited to different types of trips. 

PS. You might also want to read these articles to help you prepare for your next trip.

• The Best Carry On Luggage, Rated + Reviewed
• The Best Packing Cubes
• The Ultimate Summer Vacation Packing List

What to Pack for a Weekend Away: Need to Know

I’ve assumed that you are travelling carry-on only – I’d 100% recommend doing this when you are packing for a weekend trip.

Why should you pack carry-on for your short break? There are several reasons but the biggest two are: 

• You save money by not having to pay for hold luggage; and 
• It negates the risk of the airline losing your luggage and you having to spend a chunk of your trip sorting it out .

Luggage can, and does, get lost and delayed and trust me, it’s a real pain when you have to spend a chunk of time on your short trip trying to sort stuff out.

Perfect case in point?

I flew over to Barcelona for a weekend jaunt to Benicassim Festival wearing my rather boring work clothes (I worked as a lawyer in the City at the time and my work wardrobe had zero crossover with my festival clothes).

The airline lost my luggage, meaning I had to wake up at 8am on the first morning and run around the shops in a maddened frenzy trying to get everything before I missed my train down to the festival.

Turns out that I can move and shop incredibly quickly when threatened with having to attend a festival looking like a complete dork .

Anyway. Flying carry on is generally cheaper. Meaning you can spend your money on more interesting things, like actually having fun during the trip.

Need some cabin-sized luggage? Here’s the best .  Alternatively: Here’s why my Away Carry-On has become my go-to carry on suitcase.

What to Pack for a Weekend Trip: Practical Tips

Packing cubes.

Two words my friends: packing cubes .

I don’t know what I used to do before I started using these. They allow you to organise your luggage efficiently.

For weekend trips where I’m carry on packing I generally create a cube with items for each day , so each morning on the trip I can just pull out that day’s cube and voila – no rifling through the case looking for a clean pair of socks.

The fact that using cubes saves space in my suitcase is more than welcome too.

I use Eagle Creek’s Compression packing cubes as they’re easy to use and help compress your clothes down so you can fit more into your suitcase. 

Check What’s Going to be in Your Hotel Room

Mayyyyybe I’m a bit obsessed with packing light for a weekend trip but if I’m staying in a hotel, I try and find out what’s already in the hotel room so I don’t have to bother bringing more of the same.

Lots of hotels provide toiletries, disposable toothbrushes, cotton pads, shower caps etc – some go beyond this and add things like sun cream, insect repellent, and after-sun.

Unless you check ahead, it’s likely you’ll bring those things with you for no reason.

Pack Day to Night Clothing

Packing light is all about packing smart.  

Pack day to night clothing to save you having to bring a change of clothes for the evenings.

Check the Weather

Don’t get caught out by the weather. 

Make sure you’ve checked the weather forecast before you start packing to make sure you’re packing appropriately.

What to Pack for a Weekend Away: At A Glance

• A pair of comfortable shoes
• One pair of jeans or chinos
• Universal travel adapter
• Microfiber travel towel
• Travel-sized toiletries
• Three sets of underwear
• Nightclothes
• Kindle or books
• Carry on sized travel backpack, suitcase or holdall
• Packing cubes
• Passport and any other travel documents
• Wallet and cash
• Battery pack for phone

Weekend Trip Essentials For Different Types of Trips

Obviously, the list above covers the basics and is suitable for most generic weekends away but don’t forget these essentials to add to your packing checklist for different kinds of trips.

What to Pack for a Weekend Trip at the Beach

If you’re going to be spending the weekend at the beach, you’ve got it easy as you can generally bring a capsule wardrobe of lightweight clothes that won’t take up much space. 

Tweak the items on the list above, but you will also want to pack. 

• Bathing suit or bikini
• Beach towel – these dock and bay microfiber beach towels look great and dry quickly.

Want to know more? Check out my tropical vacation packing list.

For a Winter Break

Packing for a weekend winter break is a bit more difficult thanks to the fact that winter clothes are bulky and are going to take up more space in your carry on bag. 

The key to success here is to wear the bulkiest items like your coat and a sweater onto the plane (remove them when you get on though or you’ll be wayyyyy too hot). 

You should also focus on bringing a small number of items that work well together and can take you from day to night. 

• Thick winter coat (wear it, you’ll never fit it in your case).
• Thick socks
• Woolly scarf

Read Next: Winter City Break Packing List

For a Romantic Break

My idea of romance these days is putting on a clean pair of pants…

But if you’re willing to put in more effort than I am (let’s face it, it’s not hard), then you might also want to think about upping the ante in the fashion stakes and also adding in..

• Cute lingerie
• Smart shoes / high heels
• Some smart accessories
• Sex toys (take out the batteries to avoid awkward airport scenes).

Anything Else?

I think that’s pretty much everything covered. The only thing left to say is go, have fun and enjoy your trip.

Looking for more travel tips? Check out my travel inspiration articles.

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Ultimate Weekend Trip Packing List: What To Bring

Posted on Published: 02/25/2024

Everyone needs to get away once in a while. Even if you don’t have lots of resources or time, a weekend trip can be a good way to de-stress and explore a new area for a short time.

While a weekend getaway can be relatively easy to plan and execute, you’ll still have to spend some time packing. You won’t want to waste any of your precious vacation time running to a store to purchase something you’ve forgotten.

Check out our weekend trip packing list with some basics you’ll need, regardless of where you are going. Then, at the bottom of the post, we link to all of our packing lists. What you bring for your short trip will depend on the type of trip (beach, theme park, city), so be sure to look at the right list.

Disclosure: This weekend packing list post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Packing List for a Weekend Away

Where are you going on your weekend away.

First, you’ll need to start with where you are going. This dictates the type of clothes you need to pack, as well as other items you may need, like beach towels and comfortable shoes.

You’ll also want to think about the type of plans you have. If you are going out to nice dinners or shows, you may want to include more than one pair of shoes and other nicer clothing items.

Don’t forget to check the weather forecast at your destination before you leave. This may change the types of clothes you bring, and you may also want to include an umbrella and/or rain poncho if they are going to be necessary.

Going on an adventure vacation? Bring along a waterproof camera, appropriate footwear, and any other clothing you need. For a beach vacation, bring bathing suits, coverups, sunscreen, towels, and other essentials. If you will be touring a city, you’ll want comfortable footwear.

Driving or Flying?

Are you driving, flying, or taking a train to your destination? It’s much easier to pack up a car for a quick road trip, and you can also bring along larger items you may want, like cases of water and fitness equipment. You won’t have to be as mindful of the weight of your bags or how many you bring.

If you are flying or taking a train, you’ll probably pack light and need to bring the right bag. You may decide just to bring a carry-on bag if you are flying.

In that case, you’ll want to have a nice-sized personal item to use as underseat luggage so you can maximize space in your larger carry-on luggage. We recently tested a personal item bag that can fit many items.

In your personal item, it’s a good idea to put things you’ll need during the flight as well as any important things that you want to keep by your side. This includes any prescription medication, books, headphones, portable chargers, hand sanitizer, credit cards, and travel documents.

That way, you won’t have to get up and open the overhead for anything you may need – and you’ll have these items with you if they end up having to check your carry-on suitcase.

Some budget airlines charge an extra fee for a carry-on bag or don’t include it in the lowest fare. So check our specific flight information in advance so you aren’t surprised when you check-in. In some cases, you won’t even be able to pay for a carry-on and will only be allowed to carry a personal item and opt to pay for a checked bag.

Weekend Trip Bag

I’d either recommend a duffel bag or a wheeled suitcase for your overhead bag. A duffle bag is more likely to fit in the overhead space if the flight is full but can be a little more challenging to carry around the airport (especially with a heavier personal item).

When I pack for a weekend trip, I am very careful about packing my carry-on so that everything fits. I always roll my clothes and usually use packing cubes to compress everything. I try to limit how many pairs of shoes I bring because those usually take up a lot of space. I wear my biggest pair of shoes to save space.

Keep in mind that if you pack everything in carefully, you’ll have to do the same on the way home. While I usually just toss my dirty clothes in a laundry bag and bring them home in the bag, that can be tough to pack. So always make sure you leave a little extra space in your bag (that helps with souvenirs too!).

As a side note, we recommend bringing your own laundry bag with you. While many hotels have offered plastic bags in the past, I haven’t seen them in my hotel room the last time I traveled.

Type of Clothing

When I go on a longer trip, I usually bring a few extra items of clothing so that I’ll have options. For a weekend trip, you probably won’t have a ton of space in your bag. So you’ll need to think about your specific plans and make sure that you have the right outfits packing all of your plans.

If you don’t have plans that require a dressier outfit, consider bringing things in neutral colors so you can mix and match outfits. A pair of jeans can also be worn more than once if necessary so you have more options.

Packing Toiletries

If you travel often, I recommend keeping a packed travel bag of toiletries ready to go. Because liquids, gels, aerosols, and creams have to be 3.4 ounces or less to be carried through airport security on a flight, you’ll have to get travel-sized items for most of your toiletries. Save these in a toiletry bag and bring them out whenever you are packing for a trip.

Before you go, you’ll want to pull out the bottles and make sure they are filled enough and aren’t expired. Add any jewelry or makeup that you may want to bring for your trip.

You’ll always need to travel with some basic identification, as well as cash and credit cards. These days there are even more things you may need, so make sure you’ve packed everything required. You may also need your flight information, boarding passes, confirmation letters, and passports (for international travel).

Other Essentials

Here are some other things you may need:

• Several pairs of pants
• Dressy item if necessary
• Glasses/contacts/solution
• eReader and charger
• Important documents
• Rain jacket
• Shirts/sweaters
• Toiletries – face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hair products
• Face moisturizer
• Pair of pajamas
• Day bag/purse for a day trip
• Hair dryer/straightener
• Comfortable shoes
• Any other shoes you may need
• Portable phone charger
• Charging cords for phone/watch/tablet
• Bathing suits (if going on a beach trip or using the hotel pool)
• Water bottle
• Insect repellent and Sunscreen
• A coat if you are traveling in cold weather

Packing lists

These are just a few of the things you’ll want to pack. For more essentials, download our packing lists – while we can’t guarantee these lists will include everything you need, they are a good start.

We’ve separated the lists by type of trip, so start with the one that is most appropriate for your weekend getaway . Then, there are two list types for each trip – a master list and a child list. Use one master list for your group, and then a child list for each additional person.

Download the lists here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How many outfits do i need for a three-day trip.

It really depends on what your plans are. I always pack one extra outfit, just in case. But, you may also want something dressier for the evenings.

How can I pack for a weekend getaway in just a carry-on?

You can be efficient in packing by choosing mix-and-match items. I’d also recommend rolling clothes in the suitcase or overnight bag, which prevents wrinkles and makes clothes more compact.

More  Packing Tips  Resources : Looking for more packing tips and recommendations? Here are all of our posts including packing lists, product recommendations, and ideas for specific trips.

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The Ultimate Short Trip Packing List: What to Pack for a Weekend Getaway

Planning a weekend getaway? Whether you're headed to the beach, exploring a new city, or escaping to the countryside, packing efficiently is key to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip. 

In this guide, we will present the ultimate short trip packing list , providing you with essential items and practical tips to pack light while covering all your bases. 

Get ready to make the most of your weekend adventure without the hassle of overpacking or forgetting important essentials.

Short Trip Packing List: Every Essential

Making the right choices ensures a smooth travel experience and maximises the utility of your packed items. The first crucial step is deciding whether to check a bag or opt for a carry-on, which sets the tone for your packing strategy.

More often, for short trips (say 2-3 days), you may be able to fit all your essentials in a carry-on bag. However, for longer trips (more than 2 days, like a 2-week trip ), you might require additional clothing and items that may not fit in a carry-on, making checking a bag more practical.

Tips: If you're going on a cruise or other trip where you'll require access to necessities upon arrival, avoid checking bags during layovers. This reduces the likelihood of losing them.

Here are the must-have items for your ultimate short trip packing list for both of your luggage and carry-on bag:

In Your Luggage (Checked Baggage)

Firstly, your checked luggage allows you to bring along clothing, toiletries, and additional items that are not immediately needed during your journey. Here are our suggestions:

• Tops (mix and match)
• Jeans or shorts
• Comfortable shoes
• Lightweight jacket or cardigan
• Undergarment, socks, and sleepwear

Toiletries :

• Travel-sized toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap)
• Small towel

Travel accessories :

• Small backpack or tote bag
• Travel-sized laundry bag
• Travel pillows and earplugs

Optional extras :

• Travel guidebook
• Portable phone charger
• Travel adapter
• Small first-aid kit
• Laptop or camera (if needed).

In Your Carry-On (Handbag or Backpack)

Your carry-on serves as your in-flight or in-transit companion, containing essential items that you'll need during your journey . Important items such as medication, electronics, travel documents, and a change of clothes should be packed in your carry-on bag.

Unless you need to pack everything in your carry-on, here are all of the things that you absolutely need to pack in your carry-on.

Essentials:

• Medications
• TSA-approved liquids bag and containers
• Packing cubes
• Change of clothes.

Electronics :

• Phone and charger
• Headphones or earbuds

Travel documents :

• ID, passport (if required), and driving licence ( IDP - International Driving Licence can be a good additional)
• Credit cards and cash
• Travel Insurance
• Reservation confirmations or itineraries

Entertainment :

• Book, magazine, or e-reader
• Music playlists or downloads

Snacks and water :

• Granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit
• Reusable water bottle.

Pack Based On Season

Before leaving, make sure to check the local forecast, so you can bring appropriate items. Packing for different seasons requires consideration of the weather conditions as well as the activities you'll be engaging in during your trip. Here are some tips on how to pack for summer and winter seasons:

Summer packing list

If your much-anticipated summer trip is just around the corner, it's essential to pack wisely to fully enjoy the sun-kissed days ahead. Don't let the heat catch you off guard – be prepared with these summer packing essentials.

• Sunscreen (with high SPF)
• Hat or cap to protect from the sun
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Lightweight and breathable tops
• Shorts and skirts
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Beach towel or mat
• Beach umbrella or sunshade
• Water bottle to stay hydrated
• Portable fan or handheld fan for hot days
• Insect repellent
• Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion for soothing sunburns
• Picnic blankets or foldable chairs for outdoor activities

Winter packing

As the temperatures drop and snowflakes start to fall, ensure you're prepared for a cosy and memorable winter adventure . Don't forget to include these essential items on your winter packing list.

• Winter coat or jacket
• Sweaters or thermal tops
• Long-sleeve shirts
• Pants or jeans
• Thermal or woollen socks
• Hats, scarves, and gloves
• Boots or sturdy shoes for cold weather
• Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
• Moisturiser and lip balm for dry skin
• Medications and any necessary prescriptions.

Pack Based On Occasion

As you embark on various types of vacations, it's important to remember that different destinations and activities call for different packing essentials. To ensure you're fully prepared for your specific getaway, we've compiled a comprehensive list of must-have items for each type of trip. 

From sun-soaked essentials to rugged outdoor gear, our curated lists will help you pack smarter and lighter. You will have more time to focus on creating lifelong memories.

An International Destination

• Travel documents:
• Visa (if required)
• Printed copies of travel itineraries and reservations
• Money and banking:
• Local currency and/or international credit/debit cards
• Traveller's checks (if desired)
• Money belt or secure travel wallet
• Electronics and communication:
• Mobile phone and charger
• Power adapter (based on the destination)
• Portable battery pack
• Camera or video equipment (optional)
• Miscellaneous:
• Local guide books or maps
• Language translation apps or phrasebooks
• Travel locks for luggage.

A Wedding/Romantic Break

Love is in the air, and a romantic break is just what you need to create unforgettable moments with your special someone. Before leaving on your romantic excursion, make sure you have everything you need to create unforgettable memories together.

Formal attire :

• Wedding outfit (for attending a wedding) or elegant attire (for a romantic break)
• Suit or dress for men
• Dress or gown for women
• Accessories (ties, belts, jewellery, etc.)
• Formal shoes

Personal grooming items :

• Hair styling tools and products
• Makeup and cosmetics
• Perfume or cologne
• Nail care kit

Romantic essentials :

• Lingerie or intimate apparel
• Scented candles or romantic ambience enhancers
• Surprise gifts or tokens of affection .

A Beach Trip

You're about to go on a pleasant beach holiday , complete with sun-drenched shores and the rhythmic crashing of waves. To really appreciate your time in paradise, it's crucial to bring along the things that will make your stay there the most relaxing and pleasurable possible. 

• Sun hat or cap
• Beach towel
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Beach bag or tote
• Water bottle
• Beach umbrella or sunshade (if allowed)
• Lightweight clothing
• Beach toys or games (optional)
• Snacks and drinks
• Waterproof phone case
• Personal care items (hand sanitiser, hair ties, etc.).

A Mountain Trip

Inhale the fresh mountain air, soak up the stunning scenery, and prepare to summit some awe-inspiring mountains . Before heading out on your mountain excursion, be sure you've got everything you need to stay safe and have a good time.

Whether you're headed for rough terrain or sweeping vistas, these essentials should be on your list. 

• Athletic Gear 
• Rain jacket
• Warm clothing (layers)
• Sturdy footwear (hiking boots)
• Backpack with glasses and water bottle pocket
• Weather protection (rain jacket, sun hat)
• Personal care items (sunscreen, lip balm)
• Basic toiletries.

Extra Tips For Packing

Preparing for a short trip doesn't have to be a daunting task. In fact, with a few pro packing tips up your sleeve, you can tackle it with confidence and efficiency. 

These expert tips will help you pack smart, stay organised, and make the most of your compact luggage. Prioritise essential items and employ these space-saving techniques now.

• Think about any amenities the hotel offers: Consider what items your hotel will provide, such as toiletries, a hairdryer, iron, towels, linens, or kitchen appliances. If these items are available, you can leave them out of your packing list to save space and reduce the weight of your luggage.
• Choose a quality bag: A quality bag will protect your items and make it easier to access them throughout your journey. If you are looking for that “perfect” bag, check out our cabin-friendly backpacks . Designed to be the trusty companion on the road, you will have a piece of mind exploring every corner of the globe.
• Use packing cubes or compression bags: Invest in packing cubes or compression bags to further optimise space and keep everything in check.
• Roll your clothes: The next most popular tip is rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This technique saves space, reduces wrinkles, and allows for better organisation within your bag.
• Wear bulky items: If you're bringing bulky items like jackets, boots, or heavy sweaters, wear them while travelling by plane instead of packing them. This frees up space in your bag and ensures you stay within weight restrictions.
• Fill shoes and hat’s inside with little items: Make use of all the extra empty space. Likewise, if there’s any room or gap in the suitcase, fill them with clothes (or pads for extra protection against bumping).
• Don't overpack: Lastly, remember, it's a short trip, so avoid the temptation to pack unnecessary items. Stick to the basics and resist the urge to bring everything along.

What Should I Pack For A Short Trip?

When it comes to packing for a short trip, it's all about finding the perfect balance between practicality and enjoyment. Here is a list for you to get started for a weekend getaway:

• 3 x Underwear
• 3 x Pair of socks
• 3 x Tops (a mix of casual and dressier options)
• 2 x Bottoms (pants or shorts)
• 1 x Comfortable shoes
• 1 x Hat or cap
• 2 x Swimsuit (Optional)
• Important document.

What Should I Pack For 5 Days Away?

Embarking on a five-day adventure calls for careful planning and packing. Begin by curating a wardrobe that includes a combination of comfortable yet stylish outfits, ensuring you're ready for any occasion that may arise.

To maintain your personal care routine, bring travel-sized toiletries and don't forget items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and skincare products. 

Consider carrying a good book or a journal to keep you entertained during downtime. Definitely pack a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful moments you'll encounter on your journey. 

Lastly, bring along any necessary travel documents, chargers, and adapters to stay connected and organised throughout your five-day escapade.

What Should I Pack For 4 Days?

When packing, think about versatile clothing options that can be mixed and matched effortlessly, ensuring you have enough outfits for each day. 

Don't forget to pack a few extra tops or shirts for variety. Bring along a comfortable pair of shoes that can handle both exploration and relaxation. Additionally, consider packing a light jacket or jumper in case the weather turns cool.

As always, remember to bring your travel documents, a trusty camera or smartphone, and a positive mindset ready to embrace every moment of your four-day adventure.

In conclusion, a well-prepared short trip packing list is essential for a successful and enjoyable experience. Remember to prioritise comfort, versatility, and convenience when selecting clothing, footwear, and accessories. 

Travel-sized toiletries, electronics, and necessary travel documents should be organised based on whether they belong in your checked baggage or carry-on. 

Additionally, tailoring your packing list to the unique requirements of the occasion, season, and destination will help you make the most of your short trip and create lasting memories. Happy travels!

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

The Ultimate Packing List

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

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

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

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

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

• Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

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

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

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

  Packing List by Categories

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

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

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

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

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

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

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

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

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

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

• Packing Cubes for Clothes
• Packing Organizer for Accessories
• Packing Organizer for Electronics
• Toiletry Bag
• First Aid (if applicable)
• Document Holder
• Other Organizers (as needed)
• Daypack/Personal item

Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest! 

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

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

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

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

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

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

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

• Dress (or other) 1
• Dress (or other) 2

Visit our  travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants , stylish travel dresses , and the best  cold weather items .

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

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

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

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

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

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

• Outerwear 1
• Outerwear 2
• Sleepwear 1
• Sleepwear 2
• Underwear 1-10

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

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

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

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

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

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

• Purse – Day
• Purse – Night
• Sunglasses Case
• Watch (or Travel Clock)
• Gloves (if applicable)

Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

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

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

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

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

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

Optional Toiletries:

• Baby Powder (hot climates)
• Pumice Stone
• Hair Styling Product
• Female Urinal Device
• Menstrual Cup
• Toilet Paper

Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip .

First Aid Kit (optional)

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

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

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

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

• Eyebrow Pencil
• Eye shadow palette
• Lipstick/lip gloss

Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.

Hair / Grooming

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

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

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

• Travel Size Hair Brush
• Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

• Travel Size Blow Dryer
• Travel Size Hair Dryer Brush 
• Travel Size Flat Iron 
• Travel Size Curling Iron 

Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

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

Electronics

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

International Universal Travel Adapter

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

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

Optional Electronics:

• Tablet Charger
• Tablet Cover
• Laptop Charger
• Laptop Cover
• Laptop Case
• Screen Protector
• Keyboard Protector
• External Hard Drive
• External Hard Drive Cord
• Portable Power Bank
• Portable Power Bank Cord
• Music Device
• Music Device Charger

Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight .

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

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

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

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

• Sleeping Bag Liner
• 2 Travel Locks
• Travel Towel
• Swiss Army Knife
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Packable Tote
• Mosquito Net
• Pillow Case
• Laundry Bag
• Laundry Line
• Travel Pillow
• Disposable Poncho
• Travel Size Umbrella
• Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)

If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post. If you’re staying at hostels, read this post. If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.

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

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

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

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

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

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

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

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

• RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
• Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)

Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling .

Pre-Trip Checklist

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

• Call banks to inform of travel plans
• Immunizations
• Check weather at destination
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check visa regulations
• Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)

Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

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

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

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

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

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

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

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

Destination Packing Lists

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

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

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

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

For destinations, please read:

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

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

96 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

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

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

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

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

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

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you Theresa!

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

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

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

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

Thanks Patrizia!

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

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

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

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

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

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

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

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

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

Glad you like it Gayle!

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

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

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

AMAZING destinations!

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

That’s awesome David, thanks!

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

Thanks Valerie!

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

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

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

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

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

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

Glad you like it Kim!

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

Thank you Kim 🙂

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

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

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

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

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

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

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

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

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

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Vacation Packing List

This Vacation Packing List includes all the travel essentials you need to get the most out of a week-long trip.

The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation

Packing list tool.

Our packing list tool allows you to customize this list to your exact needs. You can add specific products directly from our website, adjust quantity, and keep an eye on total weight and price. Sign up for a free account or Join Pro for additional features & deals.

Everyone relaxes a little differently. Sometimes you spend the whole day taking it easy, only moving from your lounge chair long enough to refill your cup with a fruity drink (you know the kind we’re talking about—half a coconut and a bendy straw). Other days, you feel the urge to venture off and experience local life, whether you’re making your way to a nearby waterfall or window shopping in a quaint downtown. Maybe it’s a mix of both, and you rotate between relaxing in a hammock and snorkeling just offshore.

Regardless of how you chill, this vacation packing list covers everything you need for a week of R&R. Though we focus on travel essentials designed for warm-weather destinations, this gear covers more than just the tropical bases. We’re talking comfy clothing, exciting travel accessories, and everything in between to help you decompress in style.

Spend time away from your hotel or Airbnb and go on a cave tour, search for seashells, or explore a museum. Then, come back for a night of enjoying warm breezes on a restaurant patio or light a beachside bonfire. Whether you’re an ultra-planner with dedicated days for each activity or a go-with-the-flow type, we’ve got you covered.

Our team has researched and tested each item on this vacation packing list. We checked for durability, breathability, packability, and just about every other -bility you can think of. We even spent the day at the beach to ensure the water essentials are up to snuff. It’s hard work, we know, but someone has to do it.

The sections are split into unisex items (productivity & tech and miscellaneous) or men’s and women’s (bags & organizers, clothing & accessories, and toiletries & personal care). However, that doesn’t mean you need to follow the binary. After all, you’ll be the one on vacation, so you should pack what’s best for you. Check out our guides , reviews , and other packing lists to explore more options and find exactly what you need.

After all, vacations are about staying stress-free, and by creating a packing and travel checklist like this one, you’ll be ready to relax at the drop of a (sun)hat. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.

Vacation Packing List Video

• Men's Focused
• Women's Focused

Standalone Bags & Organizers

In this section, we cover the bags used to carry everything on this list. We recommend choosing a pack with enough space for your creature comforts, though you can always go smaller if you want to keep it light.

Every item on this vacation packing list fits inside the main travel pack so that you can one-bag it all the way to paradise. Well, two-bag if you count the sling. So, whether you’re catching your flight, hauling entertainment to the pool, or touring the local sights, you have all the space you need for your travel essentials.

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag covers all the bases, from a supportive carry with its stowaway hip belt to gear organization with its built-in pockets. There’s a place for everything without needing a million cubes and pouches. You heard that right—a zip panel separates the main bucket storage from the rest of the bag, so you don’t even need packing cubes to keep your clothing from unraveling. Most importantly, there’s enough space for a week’s worth of travel gear, even if you don’t go ultra-minimalist. You can opt for the smaller 30-liter size if you want to pack light, but we like the 40-liter version because there’s more than enough room for everything you need, plus a little extra. You are going on vacation, after all, so you may as well make the most out of your trip. Either way, choose between Topo Designs’ notoriously fun and punchy colorways so everyone at the airport knows you’re off to somewhere fun.

lock  Pro Members get up to 15% off Topo Designs

The Moment MTW Mini Fanny Sling's design is simple, effective, and so lightweight that you hardly even remember you have it on. Plus, it comes in eye-catching colorways that easily accent your daily looks. We like to wear it across the chest; however, it also works as a hip pack if that's more your style. Though it's on the smaller side, this 1-liter sling is a great dump pocket for your everyday items like a wallet, battery bank, or even a camera. There's minimal internal organization, with only a single slip pocket at the back to hold a smartphone or similarly sized item. After all, you won't need to carry much with you on a day of relaxing beyond your chill attitude and a couple of essentials.

Your travel bag is great for getting you to your destination, though it looks pretty out of place at the beach. We dig Nanobag Reusable bags for their versatility and ultra-small form-factor. They take up virtually no space until you need them. The diamond ripstop is exceptionally lightweight but can hold up to 66 pounds, so it’s more than capable of hauling your pool towel, speaker, e-reader, and a drink or two. It dries fairly quickly when wet and is super easy to clean with a quick flip inside out if you accidentally get sand inside. Though it comes in a few different styles, we like the 19-liter Crossbody Sling because it feels the most secure. You won’t have to worry about it falling off when both of your hands are full of ice cream cones.

The Bellroy Slim Sleeve’s thin profile is surprisingly spacious and feels right at home in a pants pocket. It's not exactly a minimalist wallet , as there are two quick-access sliders for things like your credit card or hotel key and a pull-tab pocket for extra cards. Though there’s no cash sleeve, it does have enough space to fit half-folded US dollars or larger tri-folded international currencies. There are over a half-dozen leather colorways, a handful of leather-free options, and a few premium leather models with a refined style if you want to go the extra mile for your everyday carry.

We appreciate wallets with thin profiles that still have plenty of storage, and the Bellroy Card Pocket delivers. There are 3 storage spaces to choose from, with enough room to hold a few cards, some cash, and even coins. We like the zippered design for its added security, though it can be a bit sticky to open. That said, it’s small enough to slip into a pocket or sling, so you’ll never be without a few dollars to buy an ice cream cone. Choose between a few chic leather colorways and embrace your vacation style.

If you’re doing your relaxation internationally, the Bellroy Travel Wallet’s low-profile slim form factor fits all your daily essentials and two passports. Size is a huge factor here, as it won’t bulk up your pockets at the airport or while exploring the local downtown. If you’re not traveling internationally, you can leave this behind.

Clothing & Accessories

It’s time to embrace your vacation personality. Whether you’re into tropical patterns or prefer to keep things simple with solid t-shirts, we’ve got something for you. In fact, everything on this vacation packing list is designed for warmer weather.

Fabrics like linen, bamboo, and cotton are in no short supply, as they’re lightweight, breathable, and—most importantly—super comfortable. However, since they’re prone to wrinkles, it’s worth perfecting your packing technique. For a detailed walk-through on how we keep our clothing crisp, check out the How We Pack It video in Pack Hacker Pro .

We’ve also chosen light, neutral colorways that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, which helps keep you cool in the hot sun. Plus, neutral colors are fairly easy to turn into a capsule wardrobe—just be sure to match tones of saturated colors like blue and brown to avoid clashing. Once you pick your color palette, add flair in the form of individual pieces that accentuate your personality. We’re talking patterned button-ups that look right at home at the cabana.

Let’s get comfy.

When traveling to a warmer place, your entire outfit should be tailored to the climate, from your hat to your underwear. The David Archy Comfy Bamboo Rayon Boxer Briefs are crafted from a soft bamboo material that’s lightweight and wicks away moisture when a leisurely walk down the boardwalk turns into a hike off the beaten path.

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While we don’t have beef with underwire per se, there’s something bralette-like about Aerie’s Real Chill Wireless Lightly Lined Bra that’s hard to beat when you’re in relaxation mode. It has enough support without feeling stiff against your body, which, let’s be honest, is the worst part about a bra. It provides more coverage and support than a bralette can give, though the material is thicker and can therefore get a little warm if you’re in the tropics.

Comfort is the name of the game on this vacation packing list, and the Aerie Real Free Padded Bralette delivers whether you’re sleeping or going on an evening walk. It’s shaped like a regular bra and has enough support to keep you comfortable while you lounge. Plus, the wide straps and soft, lightweight material won’t feel heavy on your body or dig into your shoulders. We like that the cups are removable, though they’re so thin you’ll hardly even notice they’re there.

It can be hard to avoid panty lines on a regular day, so why worry about them when you’re decompressing? Aerie’s No Show Underwear features a seamless design that won’t show through lightweight or light-colored fabrics. We’ve chosen a mix of bikini and thong cuts to cover us for any look. Though we’ve only packed three pairs and opted to give them a quick wash between wears, these are so lightweight that you could probably bring 20 and still have room to spare.

Even on a tropical vacation, you’ll need to wear closed shoes now and then. Bombas Cushioned No Show Socks ensure that your feet stay comfortable and dry until they’re back in the sand where they belong. Their cotton construction is breathable even on the warmest days, and the low-cut design won’t show with most shoes. Though they aren’t super odor-resistant, we’ve only packed three pairs since we’ll mostly be wearing sandals. You can still get a couple of days in before they need a wash, or you can always bring extras.

The Outlier Ramielust Cut One T-Shirt is made with a fabric called ramie, which is crafted from nettles and performs similar to linen. It’s lightweight and airy to keep you cool on humid days and is a great base layer for almost any weather. Its breathability also makes it somewhat see-through, though it’s mostly only visible if the shirt color you choose contrasts with your skin tone.

Versatile clothing is important for any trip, especially when your journeys take you into climates you’re not used to. The Fair Harbor Kismet Solid Tee is a t-shirt crafted from 50% cotton and 50% polyester. The cotton is breathable, so you stay cool while the polyester wicks away moisture that might make you uncomfortable. We’ve gone with plain white because it pairs well with any pants, shorts, or bathing suit, no matter the pattern or color.

Nothing screams vacation like a patterned button-up, and the Howler Brothers Mansfield Shirt delivers. It adds a sense of flair and fun to your wardrobe as an accent piece and even has a microfiber attachment on the hem to keep your sunglasses clean. We recommend looking for a pattern with colors that complement the rest of the clothing on your vacation packing list so that you can wear it any time, anywhere.

During a long day in the sun and surf, cool breezes off the water aren’t uncommon. The Patagonia Regenerative Organic Certified Cotton Lightweight Henley (that’s a mouthful) is a casual long-sleeved shirt that will keep you warm in the evening and looks at home just about anywhere. Though we like the casual look of the buttons, they can show through if layered with a lightweight sweatshirt. However, the breathable materials make it a great addition to any warm-weather loadout.

Even on the most laid-back trip, it’s important to have a piece that doesn’t look out of place at a fancier affair. The Everlane Linen Standard Fit Shirt is a breathable long-sleeved top that looks just as comfortable poolside as it does at a classy restaurant. Just be sure to pack it properly, as linen is prone to wrinkles and may still require some steaming or ironing once you get to your destination.

The transition from a hot beach to an air-conditioned restaurant can be a bit jarring. The Free Fly Bamboo Slub Hoodie is lightweight enough to be carried in your bag all day and acts as a comfortable layer when you need some extra warmth. The breathable material makes it a great option for varying temperatures, whether on the airplane or at the poolside bar; however, it is prone to wrinkling, so be sure to roll it up nicely.

The Outlier New Way Shorts look like your favorite pair of chinos but are crafted from a stretchy material that gives them a performance edge in warmer climates. They have a drawstring, so you won’t need a belt, and they can even be worn as swim shorts if your bathing suit hasn’t dried yet.

Sometimes you need durability in addition to comfort. The Patagonia Men’s Stand Up Shorts are tough enough to handle a day excursion hiking up a mountain as much as a relaxing afternoon under a cabana. The double-fabric seat and large back pockets are great if you want to go hands-free on your adventure. They’re not the most packable due to the thick organic cotton material, but we dig the loose, casual look.

The Cozy Earth Men's Ultra-Soft Bamboo Jogger Shorts are comfortable enough to sleep in but don’t look out of place at the breakfast buffet or on a late-night walk before going to bed. They’re crafted from super-soft materials, so comfort is top dog no matter where you wear them. Plus, the bamboo helps wick away moisture during sleep—feel free to open those windows and enjoy the warm breeze.

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One of the most essential pieces of gear for a vacation packing list is a bathing suit. The Wellen Lined Swim Trunks pair vintage styling with subtle (yet fun) pattern options. The quick-dry poly blend and extra pockets make this a great beach or pool companion all trip long. We find the suit to be a perfect balance between loose and tight-fitting, ensuring that comfort is king.

The Madewell Athletic Slim Chino Pants have a relaxed fit and feature stretchy and breathable materials for a casual look on warm days. It’s made with COOLMAX, a cotton and polyester blend that’s lightweight and woven for better airflow. The loose fit looks good just about anywhere you might end up on vacation, so these are great as everyday pants.

The lululemon ABC Pant looks like your favorite pair of chinos, though its breathability and stretch are a step ahead of the game. It’s great for hot and humid days, wicking away moisture and stretching with your body as you drink one-too-many daiquiris. Plus, there are over a dozen colorways, so you can find something to wear for all occasions.

Whether you’re going to the arctic or the everglades, your pants need support. The Arcade Ranger Belt is a Pack Hacker favorite and slides perfectly into a vacation pack out. The material is stretchy, not restrictive, so you’ll be comfortable whether you’re exploring local towns or sitting on a patio all night. Plus, it has a TSA-safe buckle, so you don’t need to worry about taking it off at the airport security checkpoint.

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These Cotton-Linen High-Rise Pants from Madewell are a happy medium of comfort and style. The material is lightweight and keeps you cool on warm days, and there’s a fair amount of stretch both in the legs and the waistband. We’re big fans of the relaxed fit—it’s almost like wearing more stylish sweatpants. Plus, the neutral colorways are easy to pair with just about any top.

Though they’re called joggers, we all know these comfy pants are just as happy lounging on a patio set. The elastic waistband adds comfort for sleeping while the included drawstring stays out of your way unless you want some additional cinching at the waist for a more stylish look. Plus, the FlashDry-XD material is stretchy, breathable, and dries quickly if you find yourself caught in a surprise rainstorm. Not that it ever rains when you’re on vacation, obviously.

The best leggings feel like a second skin, and the Pack Out Tights from Patagonia are comfortable, stretchy, and soft enough to do just that. They feature two side pockets for holding your phone while you run to the breakfast bar for another waffle and a zippered pocket large enough to hold your ID or credit card if you venture off in search of a specialty morning coffee.

Versatility in your clothing is key, and the Athleta Brooklyn Short’s simple design and soft material are great whether you’re poolside lounging or taking a short hike to a nearby waterfall. Plus, they even work as pajamas—yes, they’re that comfortable. Other features like the ribbed waistband, quick-drying fabric, and UPF 50+ protection make these shorts great for travel.

Some days are so hot that even shorts aren’t enough to keep you cool. On those days (and any other day, if we’re honest), we reach for the Abercrombie & Fitch Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts. With 55% linen and 45% Viscose—a type of rayon that’s breathable, soft, and absorbs moisture—you’re set for both extra-sunny days and breezy nights. They come in a range of colors from neutral to neon and patterns from floral to plaid, so you can wear them as a staple solid or opt for a design to add flair like us.

Even if you won’t be doing any yoga on your vacation, the lululemon Align Tank Top’s soft, stretchy material makes days of walking around town more comfortable. Its cropped, fitted style looks great on its own, though it also works well as a base layer on a chilly day under a long sleeve shirt or button-up. It even comes in a few bold colorways, though we kept it neutral for easier pairing. We like the built-in bra, and the cups are removable if you prefer to go without.

Patagonia’s Trail Harbor Tank Top’s simple design and blend of hemp and cotton is the perfect combination to wear with…well…anything. The materials keep you cool as temperatures rise throughout the day while the scoop neck, wide shoulder straps, and hip-length design is easy to tuck in or leave out depending on the waistline of your pants.

When we say the Cozy Earth Stretch-Knit Bamboo Lounge Tee is soft, we mean it. Though we like to wear it to bed or while lounging around because of its breathable, moisture-wicking bamboo material and flowy look, it doesn’t look out of place tucked into a nice pair of pants for a night out. And, if you happen to find yourself with a gnarly sunburn on your chest, shoulders, and/or back, it’s soft enough to be comfortable on your sensitive skin. Not that it ever happened to us, of course.

What do we want? Flowy tops! When do we want them? Pretty much always, but especially on vacation! The Cates T-Shirt from lululemon is made with 94% Pima Cotton for breathability and 6% Lycra elastane for stretch and to help keep its boxy shape. This top is great for lazy mornings and pairs well with high-rise pants or shorts but is long enough to go with low-rise, too.

Not only does The Linen Workwear Shirt from Everlane keep you cool, it has a casual look that can be dressed up or down depending on where the day takes you. Tuck it in for a more dialed-in dinner style or leave it unbuttoned and layer it over a tank top to keep your shoulders protected on a sunny day. However, because it’s made with 100% linen, it wrinkles pretty easily and may require some TLC once you arrive at your destination.

The Scoop Swim Top from Cuup has an innovative underwire that’s flexible enough to bend, meaning you get extra support in your swimsuit without losing packability. Plus, the ECONYL nylon resists fading in chlorine and salt water or after contact with sunscreens and oils. The lack of padding may not be for everyone, though the ability to granularly adjust the fit and inclusive cup sizes are great for practically any body type.

If you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the water, the ECONYL nylon fabric of Cuup’s Highwaist Swim Bottom is a must. It resists fading whether you’re heading to the beach or the pool, and it even fights against sunscreen and oils. Its thin, too, so it packs down small like a pair of underwear in your bag. We like the cheeky high waisted cut because of its unique fit, though they also have bikini, brief, and a fuller coverage high waist options available at the time of publishing.

Whether you’re wearing it to dinner or as a bathing suit cover-up, the Athleta Newport Wrap Dress has a flowy fit that’s comfortable enough to wear all day long. The material is lightweight, stretchy, and thin without being see-through. Plus, it wicks away moisture and easily fights wrinkles. We also like that it has cap sleeves for a little added shoulder protection.

The Abercrombie & Fitch Halter Linen-Blend Mini Dress is a saucy little number that looks good whether you’re on a boardwalk patio for lunch or jumping between local nightlife hangs. The light color keeps you cool while the linen and Viscose blend of fabric adds breathability and stretch. This means that you’ll not only feel better in warm temps, but you’ll also be comfortable as this slim-fit dress moves with your body. Just be sure to hang it up when you get to your accommodations, as the fabric is prone to wrinkles.

This Bamboo Lightweight Long Sleeve from Free Fly is made with—you guessed it—lightweight bamboo material. What does that mean? You won’t be left overheating if you decide to throw it on before the sun fully sets, and you’ll even get the added benefit of UPF 40+ protection. We like this top for lounging around at night or on breezy mornings, though its soft colorways are great for any time of day.

The Organic Cotton Dreamsoft Travel Scarf from Zestt is a scarf, shawl, and blanket all in one—a triple threat. The soft cotton adds just enough warmth when you need it. Drape it over your shoulders on an evening walk around the city or when it gets breezy. We went with a solid color so it’s easier to match, though there are also color-blocked designs if you want to add some variety.

With sunny days ahead, you’ll need a set of sunglasses to see the ball in an intense beach volleyball game. The Sunski Avila sunglasses are lightweight enough to keep on your person at all times, and they don’t feel heavy on your face after a day in the sun. Plus, they provide polarization and protection from UVA, UVB, and UV400 wavelengths. There are tons of styles and colors to choose from, so you can show off your personality all day, every day.

A sunglasses case will ensure nothing breaks in transit, whether between the hotel and the beach or your home and the airport. Though we don’t have a specific recommendation, we prefer a hard case to ensure they don’t get crushed in our bag. However, keep in mind that they’re often bulkier than a soft case.

A hat is a vacation must to keep the sun out of your eyes and prevent sunburn. The Melin Hydro Hat has the feel of a regular hat but is made with materials that float in water. This means you won't lose it to the deep end if you get thrown in the pool by your travel buddies. After a long day of sun and surf, take it into the shower, give it a quick wash with shampoo, and hook it to the outside of your pack to dry using a carabiner.

What’s a vacation packing list without shoes that feel at home on sand, water, and the trail? This list’s answer is the Tropicfeel Monsoon, a lightweight sneaker that can be put on quickly for a day exploring town, short hikes, and even a dip into the water. It isn’t the most packable shoe we’ve seen, but we dig the fact that it dries quickly and has a drainage hole in the sole for water to dissipate. Who doesn’t want to slide their toes into a waterfall now and then?

The Birkenstock Arizona Essential EVA packs the ruggedness you expect from Birkenstock into a lightweight, waterproof shoe that’s perfect for walks along the beach. After a day in the sand, they clean easily with any water source or the brush of a hand. Plus, they come in tons of bold colorways, so you can make a statement or keep it neutral like us.

Nothing says vacation like a wide brim hat. However, that doesn’t mean they’re the easiest to pack. Thankfully, this FURTALK Beach Hat is flexible enough to pack down into your bag and bounce back after a few hours of travel. Or, hang it on the outside of your bag if you bring along a hat clip. The fit is adjustable via a hook-and-loop closure on the inside head band. Plus, it comes in plenty of shades and ribbon colors, so you can choose the palette that best suits your vacation packing list.

Wide brim hats may scream beach, but they also scream, “Wait, how do I carry this without wearing it?” Instead of shoving your hat into your travel bag and risk impacting its shape, hang it from the outside using the Klipsta. It uses powerful magnets to secure on either side of a brim, meaning you don’t need to worry about poking holes in your hat just to hang it. Though your hat can still slip through if you swing your bag around hard enough, we haven’t had any issues making it through the airport, TSA, or in and out of an overhead bin with the hat attached. You may just need to adjust the hold every now and then.

We’ve opted for a satin scrunchie from Kitsch to keep our hair up. The material dries quicker than a jersey or cotton commonly found in other hair ties, so you can get in and out of the water without hanging on to a wet scrunchie for the rest of the day. Similarly, satin (and scrunchies in general) are less harsh on hair, so they’re great for sleep. We went with black, but there are fun patterns and lighter colors to choose from, too.

We kicked it up a notch on this classic Vans shoe and went with the Old Skool Platform. Its chunky midsole has a trendy look without being so bulky that they’re hard to pack. Plus, the flat bottoms easily slot together in your travel bag; however, we prefer to wear these in transit. Though they’re not the most breathable shoe we’ve worn, we still find them comfortable enough to walk around in all day, even in the heat. We like the white because they have a sleek, trendy look that pairs well with the wide range of colors on the list, though there are plenty of fun colors available.

Embrace the urge to dip your feet in the water without taking off your sandals every time. The Reef Water Vista sandals have TPU straps that won’t hold on to moisture, so you’ll dry off quickly. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and feature a hook-and-loop adjuster to dial in your fit. Plus, the simple style is easy to pair with any outfit on this vacation packing list and will look nice on just about any occasion. However, keep in mind that the adjuster can take a while to dry, unlike the shoes themselves.

The Peak Design Shoe Pouch ensures that sand doesn’t make its way into your travel pack and has enough room for two pairs of shoes. This enables you to go off the beaten path without worrying about how to get a pair of dirty shoes home. Plus, it packs into itself, so you can leave it in your daily bag in case you decide to walk back to your beachside accommodations barefoot but don’t want to carry your shoes the whole way.

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Productivity & Tech

This is great time to relax and unwind, and everything on your vacation packing list should help get you there. Maybe you like to watch movies before bed or wake up and read a few pages of your local newspaper. No matter how you unwind and unplug, we’ve got you covered.

Though we’ve kept tech to a minimum on this list, there’s still plenty to keep you connected to your life back home. As long as you come out on the other side refreshed, we’re happy.

The Topo Designs Accessory Bags are great for keeping like items together, whether you’re using it as a pouch for your daily essentials or to keep your camera and its accessories packed into one convenient place. They come in fun colors that feel at home in a tropical destination and are surprisingly spacious given their flat, simple design.

With a tiny pouch like the Topo Designs Square Bag, you can organize your small gear and keep it close at hand. This little dump pocket is a perfect spot for headphones, chapstick, a small deck of cards, or anything else you want access to during a flight or throughout your day. It even comes with an attached carabiner to hook it to your travel bag or belt loop. You’ll project major dad vibes in the best way.

Sometimes it’s nice to decompress after a long day in the sun. Instead of a laptop, bring along an iPad Air to watch your favorite TV show or movie, chat with friends and family members back home, or play a few brain puzzles to tire your engine out. The M1 chip and enhanced graphics are a step ahead of the iPad’s previous generations, so you’ve got a lot of power in a tiny package. However, we recommend disconnecting your work email for the week—you've earned it!

The TiMOVO Case for iPad Air pairs protection with a ton of bright colorways, making it perfect for a fun vacation. It has a low-profile design that fits into most device pockets. Plus, the front cover folds into a built-in stand so you can watch videos and play games hands-free on the plane or while you decompress before bed. Though the case isn’t sand-proof, its tight fit reduces the number of particles that get inside.

Remove the pressure to get the perfect photo when you’re on a stress-free vacation. The Instax Mini 40 brings new meaning to the term point-and-shoot, offering a fun alternative to taking pictures with your smartphone or camera. Plus, there’s no fuss around editing the photo or selecting the perfect shot. We like to bring two film packs with us, one loaded in the camera and one extra. The film is pretty easy to find, so if you run out, just stop at a local drug or big box store to grab more.

We’ve opted for the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition for its IPX8 rating and glare-free screen that auto-adjusts to your surrounding light. You don’t have to worry about surprise splashes while sitting poolside or fighting for a cabana to avoid the afternoon sun. Plus, the upgraded 32-gigabyte storage ensures you have plenty of room to download another beach read.

We like to wear an Apple Watch because it allows us to put our phone away for the day and still keep an eye on our notifications. That way, we can determine what can be ignored for a little while longer—this is a vacation, after all. Plus, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as blowing your step goals out of the water while you’re exploring a new city.

Though phones are becoming more durable and waterproof, the GoPro Hero10 is a perfect supplement to your smartphone camera when the journey becomes aquatic. It’s waterproof up to 33 feet, shoots 5.3K video, and fits into the palm of your hand. What else could you ask for?

The Handler Floating Hand Grip is a GoPro accessory that makes it easy to take selfies, point the camera at underwater life, and get action shots playing in the ocean–all while protecting your GoPro from sinking if you accidentally drop it.

What’s a vacation without some killer tunes? The Soundcore 3 offers an IPx7 waterproof rating, meaning it can withstand submersion up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. When combined with its robust sound and vibrant colorway options, the Soundcore 3 is the perfect companion for the pool or beach.

The Anker 735 has three available ports for charging every device on the full vacation packing list. It has a skinny form factor and flip-in prongs, which packs away nicely. With a maximum capacity of 65 watts, it quickly gets you the juice you need. Top up more of your entertainment at once, whether you prefer to do it overnight or while getting ready for the day.

Bringing universal cables is an easy way to save space in your bag when you only have a few devices on hand. The Rolling Square inCharge XL looks the same as your typical cable but has swappable adapters, so you can charge up to six different ways. Bring the 1’ version for your battery bank and leave the 6.5’ version back at your accommodations in a hard-to-reach outlet. The included case is a little bulky, so we opted to ditch it and keep it in our tech pouch instead.

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The iFory Watch Charger is about as minimalist as it gets. It acts as a base to charge your Apple Watch, but instead of an attached cable, you can plug in your own USB-C cord. We love its small size and sturdy feel that takes up practically no space in a tech pouch. The less cords you have to manage, the better.

Charge up to three devices at once with the Anker PowerCore III 10K Wireless Portable Charger. Set your headphones case on the wireless top to charge while you listen to tunes and top up your phone and e-reader using the other two available ports. And, with 10,000 milliamp hours at your disposal, you won’t have to worry about losing access to your map while directing friends or family back to the hotel.

Whether you typically bring a full DSLR set-up or simply enjoy capturing casual memories, the iPhone 13 Pro has you covered. While the standard lens is great for most shots, the second two lenses are ideal for group photos and detailed shots of native flowers. Plus, 12 megapixel photos are more than adequate for sharing on social media. If Android phones are your cup of tea, look for one with multiple lenses to ensure you can get the perfect shot!

When you want to keep your carry as minimal as possible, reach for the Jimmycase Wallet. It protects your phone and features a stretchy elastic pocket that can hold up to six cards. Store your ID when you head to the nearest patio for a drink or bring extra cash to buy a lemonade on the pier. Plus, there are a ton of fun patterns and colors to choose from.

Protect your phone, charging cables, and power bank from sand and surf with the Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Travel Pouch. Its IP67 waterproof design acts as a barrier between your tech and sand or spilled margaritas. In the meantime, use it as a tech pouch within your travel bag to stay organized. Plus, you can even attach a strap or weave paracord through the side loops to create a makeshift sling and go hands-free.

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Whether you’re looking for some peace at the airport or a cabana overrun by Spring Breakers, Apple Airpods Pro have noise-canceling technology that allows you to find your beach no matter where you are. Plus, they fit into the palm of your hand, your pocket, or your sling with ease.

If you’re traveling internationally, it’s essential to be prepared to charge your phone, tablet, or eReader once you arrive. The Kikkerland Travel Adapter has you covered in more than 150 countries so that you can juice up your devices around the globe. It’s important to note that the Kikkerland adapts the outlet—it doesn’t convert power—so be sure to double-check the specifications of the country you’ll be traveling to. If you’re staying local, you can leave this adapter behind.

You never know where you’ll find inspiration worth jotting down. The Pokka Pens Classic Pen is lightweight enough to fit just about anywhere and has a ton of colorways to match the mood of wherever you’re heading. Though it’s not the most premium pen we’ve tested, it’s a great option for writing in your journal while enjoying the sound of crashing waves.

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The Baronfig Confidant Hardcover Notebook is perfect place to store your thoughts and experiences, doodles, and a few games of tic-tac-toe while on the go. It comes in dot grid, ruled, and blank page formats, so there’s something that will feel natural for everyone. We went with the Flagship size so we have enough room for new Pack Hacker ideas, though you can opt for the Pocket size if you want something smaller.

Toiletries & Personal Care

Looking to check out that five-star restaurant everyone’s been raving about? What about when it’s time to spend the day sun-bathing as you nurse a cold drink? No matter where you’re headed, you’ll need your toiletries to get ready for it.

Before you start adding everything and the kitchen sink to your vacation packing list, first check with your accommodations. Most will provide things like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Some even go so far as to provide makeup wipes (if you need them)! By checking what’s available first, you’ll save space in your bag for other (more fun) things—we’re looking at you, Miscellaneous section.

The Aer Travel Kit 2’s ability to organize bulky and tiny toiletries alike makes it a great pick if you have more to carry. The deep bucket shape secures larger bottles of lotion in place while the zippered pockets keeps your tweezers and makeup brushes from getting lost in the shuffle. Plus, there’s even a built-in hook for hanging, so you can give yourself a little extra counter space while you’re getting ready for the day.

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The Gillette Venus Intimate Grooming Razor has a super flexible head that makes it easy to touch up a hard-to-reach bikini line. There’s a built-in bar that reduces the amount of contact it makes with your skin, which means there’s less of a chance for irritation. Plus, there’s even a precision trimmer on the back of the blades to really clean things up.

You can’t always plan a vacation around your cycle, but that doesn’t mean you need to pack a bunch of sanitary items just in case. We like the MeLuna Menstrual Cup for its convenience if your cycle starts early or runs late. They have sizes and shapes to accommodate just about anyone, so you can find a fit that feels right.

After a long day of body-surfing in the waves, your hair will need a bit of detangling. The Michel Mercier Travel Hair Brush is compact and features a cap that protects the bristles when you toss it in your sling or beach bag. Though it works great for getting knots out, the bristles are pretty hard on the end, so take care in how you brush if you have a sensitive or sunburnt scalp.

The lightweight coverage of Fenty Beauty’s Eaze Drop feels breathable in warm weather and adds just enough coverage to lightly even out pigmentation. You’re on vacation, after all—looking great with minimal effort is the name of the game. Plus, it comes in tons of skin tones, so there’s something for everyone.

Even on vacation, it’s nice to put a little makeup on. What’s not-so-nice is getting to the beach only to realize that you’re at risk of raccoon eyes if you go underwater. The Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara from Too Faced comes in a travel size container and stays on even when you decide to show off your best swan-dive at the pool.

With the Milani All-Inclusive Eye, Cheek & Face Palette, you have everything you need to get ready for a day in or night out. Go glittery with your eyeshadow or keep it basic with a little blush. There’s even a bit of highlighter and bronzer when it’s time to contour. Though you can’t choose the individual shades, there are a few different palette combinations to match your makeup style and preference.

Whether you want to wear makeup every day or just on special occasions, the Daily Essentials Total Face Kit from EcoTools gives you more options with less bulk. Use the large handle for the blush and buffer brushes and the small handle for the crease, concealer, and spoolie heads. Swap between them as needed and go through your routine with ease. Plus, you can add more interchangeable heads, as each type is compatible with either the small or large handle.

It’s nice to go to bed with a fresh face. At the end of the day, the Clean 10 Cleansing Balm from JUNO & Co. makes quick work of taking off dirt, SPF buildup, and yes, even waterproof mascara. A little bit goes a long way! Rub it between your fingers to create an oil, massage it into your skin, and wash your face just like you usually would. If you’re feeling adventurous, double-cleanse and follow up with a regular face wash. Your skin will thank you.

We like to keep things simple while on vacation, even with our toiletries. The Bellroy Dopp Kit has basic organization for carrying just what you need and nothing more. It has a flexible structure that’s easy to pack full of travel bottles, and it even has a dedicated shelf for your toothbrush. Bring it along to the beach or leave it on the bathroom counter until you’re getting ready for bed. Either way, it’s easy to find exactly what you need.

If you expect to be in and out of the water throughout the day, having a comb on hand is a great way to ensure that your hair always looks dapper. The Chicago Comb Co. Model No. 2 Carbon Fiber is ultra-lightweight, fits into your pocket and is durable enough to take the bumps and knocks of travel.

In addition to the Braun Electric Razor’s sleek design, it operates relatively silently with two double-A batteries. We like the twist cap that acts as both a protective cover in transit and a longer handle when it’s in use. Plus, it won’t turn on while the cover is closed, so the rest of your toiletries are safe. We’re sticking with easy beard maintenance on this vacation packing list, though you can bring a razor if you want a closer shave.

You might think your daily deodorant is perfect for a beach vacation, though standard roll-on deodorants are at risk of melting in hot weather or getting flagged at TSA. The Vasarii nakd. Thai Crystal Deodorant Stone comes in a sturdy, travel-size case and won’t melt in the sun, so you won’t have any issues with airport security. Get it wet before applying for the best results.

Though it comes with its own clear pouch, Eagle Creek’s Silicone Bottle Set fits snug in practically any Dopp kit. Between the four included bottles, we’ve split our SPF protection, regular lotion, aloe for soothing skin after long days in the sun, and toothpaste for, you know, your teeth. If you want to bring face wash, swap out the sunscreen and buy a big bottle at your destination instead. No matter what you pack, the thin, compact design of these bottles is ideal for your liquid essentials.

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Here at Pack Hacker, we like to keep everything organized, including our medications. The humangear GoTubb is small, lightweight, and has enough room to stow medication for your trip. We like to keep ibuprofen here just in case we need it, and you can even leave the pills in there when you return home until your next trip.

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A vacation packing list calls for sun, surf, and sugary snacks. The Philips One Battery Toothbrush by Sonicare meets our travel toothbrush size expectations and has the vibrations we’re used to from our regular model at home. Nobody likes messing up their daily hygiene routines, and staying ahead of your brushing can save you a toothache later.

Walking barefoot on the beach is one of the best feelings in the world; however, the occasional splinter is possible while traveling along the boardwalk. The Tweezerman Slant Tweezer has a minimal design that works well at removing everything from wood pieces to errant eyebrow hairs.

Nobody likes a hangnail, especially on vacation! The Victorinox Swiss Army Nail Clippers are a super packable set of clippers that ensure you won’t ever have to wait to get rid of a pesky hangnail again. Plus, they're TSA-friendly.

Though most hotels and Airbnbs provide beach towels, it’s always good to have a spare for spontaneous trips to the water. With over a dozen designs to choose from, the Nomadix Ultralight Towel adds flair to your relaxation without taking up too much space in your beach bag. It’s made with MicroSuede, which is a type of microfiber designed to absorb water and dry quickly. The included carrying case is a little large, so we prefer to roll it up and stow it in our pack on its own.

We always keep a tube of lip balm with us, especially on a beach vacation, to ensure our lips don’t get chapped due to humidity changes, sun exposure, and salt water. We recommend choosing a version that includes SPF protection. That way, you have an extra layer of safety from the sun’s rays.

Whether you need to contain something inside or outside the bag, a Ziploc bag does the trick. We’re bringing a quart size to get our liquids through TSA and a gallon size just in case we go for one last dip before our flight and need to lug home a wet bathing suit. We like to use a VELCRO cable tie to keep them rolled up and stowed in our toiletry bag or travel pack.

Miscellaneous

The items in this section are here to amp things up. We’re talking games, relaxation enhancers, and travel essentials that will make your life easier.

Though some of these aren’t necessities, they’ll help you get the most out of your vacation. Sometimes day 4 of sitting on the beach can get a little old, and this gear will ensure you’re having a good time as you relax.

On days when you want to go straight from the beach to dinner, store your wet bathing suit in Matador’s Droplet Water-Resistant Stuff Sack so it’s separate from the rest of your dry gear. It has 2.5 liters of storage space when expanded and packs down into a silicone container small enough to fit on your key ring. However, it’s not waterproof, so moisture can still seep out of the top cinch closure. It’s important to keep it upright when possible.

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Card games are a great way to pass the time, whether you’re waiting for a storm to pass or just looking for a way to spend a few hours without screen time. Though they’re only slightly smaller than a regular deck of cards, every inch counts when you’re traveling with one bag. They’re durable enough to be used anywhere, though be gentle with the case, as it’s similar to a standard deck of cards and can be easily crushed.

Simply put, the Waboba’s name is a shortened version of what it is: a WAter BOuncing BAll. It fits into the palm of your hand and skips across water with ease, offering endless opportunities for fun at the beach or pool. The gel core doesn’t get saturated with water, so you can play with it for hours. However, it can skip a long way, so be careful how hard you throw it!

A hammock is a perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring a new destination. The Kammok Roo Single UL Camping Hammock makes that possible without adding weight to your pack. It weighs less than 6 ounces and packs into itself, so it’s easy to stow away until you need it. However, it takes a few tries to get used to the repacking process, so practice makes perfect.

An ultralight hammock is nothing without a set of ultralight hammock straps to pair with it. The Kammok Python 10 UL Hammock straps compress easily and slot nicely into your pack. Despite their small size, they can hold up to 300 pounds. They come with an included carrying case, though rolling the straps to fit inside can take some getting used to.

One of the best things about a tropical vacation is enjoying the sunset from the beach, though sand can deter you from sitting on the ground in your dinner clothes. The Matador Pocket Blanket 3.0 fits in your pocket for easy storage and has enough coverage for up to three people to sit. However, we’ve found it’s best suited for two. Plus, with the included stakes on each corner, you won’t have to worry about it blowing away.

Though the Purist Collective Mover looks like your everyday insulated water bottle, its unique design gives it an edge. On the inside is a thin layer of glass that protects your drink from developing that metallic-y taste you sometimes get when it’s left in a stainless steel bottle too long. This means that your ice-cold lemonade will stay fresh even if it takes you a few hours to finish it. We also like the sleek matte exterior, though it can scuff.

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Tropical climates usually mean sun and surf, but it’s worth being prepared for inclement weather. We chose the DAVEK MINI umbrella for its compact size and lightweight construction. It’s so small that you won’t regret lugging it around town even if you don’t end up needing it. Plus, it comes in a ton of bold colorways, so there’s something for everyone.

The Loop Quiet Noise Reduction Earplugs help you enjoy a few hours of peace and quiet after a night on the town. They dampen outside noises so you can easily get a few more hours of shut-eye. Choose between four different silicone ear tip sizes to find the right fit for you. Plus, they come with a small carrying case, so you’ll always know where they are when you need them.

The Orbitkey Key Organiser is a minimalist key ring that holds a handful of the keys you need, like your house key for your place back home or the Airbnb you're staying at for the week. Leave it inside your travel pack or throw it in your pocket when you head out for the day.

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Carabiners are always useful, but The James Brand Mehlville takes function to a new level. It’s separated into two sections, so you can secure small items like your keys on one side and attach them to your everyday bag with the other. Plus, it has a built-in bottle opener to crack open a cold one on the beach or poolside.

Whether you plan to take a few day-long excursions or don’t plan to leave the pool for more than an hour, it’s always best to be prepared with first aid. We like to purchase a standard premade kit and empty the contents into a small, thin pouch that’s easier to store. That way, we can look cool while we tend to a blister from walking around town all day!

Eating a frozen snack from a cart vendor is a great way to cool off; however, it can be a little tricky if your hands are covered in sand. Hand wipes are the perfect way to clean up before eating to ensure no sand or saltwater makes its way into your mouth. We like disinfectant wipes both for our hands and sanitizing public bathrooms or changing surfaces before using them.

See How We Pack It

Time to Chill!

So, there you have it! A vacation packing list designed to help you relax in style and, most importantly, comfort. If you’re curious about how to pack for more than just your vacation, check out our other packing lists and guides to help you get started. We cover everything you need, from traveling as a digital nomad to choosing the best travel backpack.

Whether you’re hitting up international beaches or staying within your home country’s borders, we hope this vacation packing list takes the stress out of packing so you can relax before your trip even starts.

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The Ultimate Short Trip Packing List

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September was packed with short trips for me and that got me more efficient when it came to packing for short trips! What helps me the most is to make a short trip packing list prior to anything. But making a list can also be overwhelming so I divide them by outfits/days, makeup, skincare, and gadgets.

My short trip packing list includes outfits by the day so I don’t overpack. I usually hang looks I’m inclined to take in a clothing rack and wait until the last day to pack them. I check the weather to make my final decisions (sometimes that includes taking pieces away and/or adding something else). I’ll use my last trip to the MacKenzie-Childs HQ as an example of what I brought. We had an itinerary and that helped with planning a whole lot. But we don’t always have a plan, so as a rule of thumb I’ll pack an outfit for the day and one for the evening.

If space is limited, pack a pair or two of jeans and/or leather pants that would work with multiple tops, shoes, and jackets. That’s key to save space! Dresses are also a great idea, they are small and work well with accessories that change their look.

Whether I’m flying or going on a road trip, I usually pick something really comfy and easy to layer. Planes can be tricky with the temperature so I always make sure to bring a cardigan/sweater. I wore this cardigan over tees and jeans during my stay in Aurora as well! It’s soft, long and comes in 5 different colors.

Shop What’s in my Short Trip Packing List!

For the first day I wore a fun and versatile jumpsuit. At night I threw the long cardi over it. But you can also go for a leather jacket or a denim jacket to make it more casual, with tennis shoes or espadrilles. It also goes well with booties.

I love bringing separates so I can wear them multiple times and make them look different. This mini skirt goes well with a neutral bodysuit (the one from the airport look) or a tee as well as a sweater or a blazer.

I packed three sweaters for this trip because I wanted to have options but two should be more than enough. This is another example of a sweater look that can be separated in so many options.

A little white dress is always a good choice, in this case, I paired mine with white booties but they could go with heels or OTK boots as well. I also wore it with my favorite suede jacket over the shoulder – but failed to snap a pic. Ugh!!

For the last night or those moments, you’ll take to lounge while traveling I chose all my cozies together…

Another idea for a travel look is this soft sweater from Vici Collection and a pair of worn out jeans. I always bring a big bag when traveling to fit my computer, camera, phone and little makeup/skincare touch-ups. I heard the LV neverfull is out of stock (shocked!) but I love these as well. The black and cognac color combo is my favorite!

I travel with beauty essentials only. My choice is usually products that multitask. These are my go-to’s:

Usually, I bring along sample jars of products and leave them in my necessaire but since I’ve been in my dermatologist regimen I brought my products this time around. Travels always give me the excuse to have spa nights!

I hope this gave you a good glimpse of my short trip packing list. I also hope it helps you narrow down your must-go goodies to help you save space and have more room for fun findings from your travels!

Loving this short trip packing list? Click here now for more of my essential travel tips !!

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

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

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

Table of Contents

What to Consider Before You Pack

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

Here are some things to consider:

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

The Vacationer Tip

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

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

How to Decide Which Items to Put in Which Bags

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

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

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

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

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

Packing Liquids

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

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

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

Packing Shoes

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

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

Ideas to Maximize Space

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Vacation Packing List

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

Here are our recommended clothing and apparel items to pack.

Shoes and Accessories

Here are our recommended shoes and accessories to pack.

Here are our recommended toiletries to pack.

Miscellaneous

Here are our recommended miscellaneous items to pack.

Comforts for travel (suggested to pack in personal item)

Here are our recommended comfort items to pack.

Tips for success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

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

By Natasha Gabrielle

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

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Essential Overnight Trip Packing List

It’s far too easy to overpack for short trips. That is why you need an  overnight trip packing list.  With a solid overnight bag list, you’ll be able to keep organized and not forget anything important. 

With just an overnight trip, the temptation to overpack can really strong. Let’s avoid that if we can. Ready for the list? Just keep reading! 

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

Packing list for your overnight trip 

Use this overnight trip packing list as the basis for creating your own list for each of your trips. Of course, you don’t need to follow this list exactly. It’s designed to be customized. Use it as a starting place. 

The key thing is to keep it simple.

Tip : use an editable digital packing list to easily make changes to your list as you pack.

Clothing 

You only need to pack two outfits at the most : 

• One outfit that’s appropriate for whatever activity or occasion you have during the one evening of your trip. 
• One outfit for anything you have planned for the second day.  

For overnight trips,  my preference is to pack only one pair of pants  and then wear home the next day the same pants or even the same outfit that I wore for travel the day before. 

Pajamas —a simple lightweight set of pajama bottoms paired with a T-shirt like this works.  I love my Amazon Essentials pajamas.

One pair of shoes  for whatever you have planned for your trip. Make sure they work with whatever outfits you are taking. 

• I usually just take one bra with me for overnight trips…the one I wear to travel to my destination.
• 2 pairs of underpants. I always pack a spare pair. 
• Optional: camisole 

Socks —to work without whatever shoes you have packed. 

• Ultra low-cut liner socks  like these you can buy on Amazon  are great to wear with flats or even slip-on casual shoes like Vans or TOMS. 
• I love to wear these liners with athletic shoes. 
• Wool socks like these are perfect for outdoor activities in cold weather. 

Jacket or cardigan  to keep warm in case of sudden weather changes, cold event venues or restaurants, etc. 

Optional clothing you could pack for an overnight trip 

If your hotel has a gym and you enjoy working out when you travel make sure to take your  workout clothes  with you. Or if you want to check out your hotel’s pool, add a  swimsuit and coverup  to your packing list. 

If you have room in your bag, consider packing a pair of flip-flops or slippers for wearing around your hotel room or in case you need to make a quick run down the hall for ice. 

• These are my favorite flip-flops . I almost never travel without them…unless it’s the dead of winter. 
• These are my absolute favorite slippers .   

Toiletries 

For a trip of just one night, keep skincare, haircare, and makeup products to a minimum. I always recommend that you just  use your hotel bathroom product amenities  when possible. That means you won’t need to pack shampoo, conditioner, soap, or perhaps even a facial cleanser or body lotion. 

Pack a basic toiletries bag with only the essentials. Here are some examples of what you might pack (all are products I actually pack for trips and have used for many years): 

• Foundation —get one with SPF in it like this . 
• Concealer — I love this one because it lasts. All. Day. Or try a “foundcealer” like this to save even more space since it’s a foundation and concealer in one. 
• Makeup sponge — this one is a great affordable option . 
• Powder — this talc-free powder travels well. 
• Eyeliner — this retractable pencil makes a great travel companion. 
• Eyebrow pencil — this affordable version of more expensive pencils is one of my favorites. 
• Eyebrow gel —a good brow gel will help you look made up even when you only have a few minutes to get ready. This one is my favorite . 
• Mascara —a tubing mascara like this one is great for travel since it doesn’t smudge. 
• Lip gloss or lipstick —or both. They’re small. 
• Disposable razor  
• Daytime moisturizer with sunscreen — this one is SPF 50 , works well under makeup, and doesn’t leave a white cast. 
• Night cream — this one is my favorite . 
• Toner —I enjoy traveling with a hydrating toner like this one . 
• Cotton rounds — these are perfect for applying toner and whatever else you need. 
• Travel size toothpaste

Miscellaneous essentials 

There are a few other things you might want or need to pack to make sure you have a good trip. 

• Charger for phone and other electronics 
• Umbrella 
• Prescription medications 
• Essential dietary supplements or over-the-counter medications 
• A few first-aid items. You can bring a small selection of things from home or purchase a compact first-aid kit designed for travel . 

Things you can leave at home 

• Multiple outfit options for every possible scenario 
• Extra shoes 
• Large makeup bags 
• Extra electronics (e.g., you don’t need to pack a laptop AND a tablet) 
• Hair dryer. Use the one provided by the hotel. 
• Shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Use the hotel amenities. 
• Multiple jewelry options 

Minimize your overnight bag 

I find that  the danger of overpacking is strongest with short trips . And overnights are no exception. Because it’s so easy to overpack for overnight trips, I recommend you  use the smallest bag you can  but still have room to pack the things you genuinely need. 

Using a small bag will help you avoid the temptation to overpack because you simply won’t have the room. 

A small rolling carry-on bag like this one from Amazon makes a great overnight bag. 

A large tote bag like this popular weekender would also be great for a short one-night trip. 

Get your overnight bag list organized 

Why do you need to get organized for your overnight trip? All you have to do is toss a few things in a bag, right? But when heading out on an overnight,  it’s so easy to simultaneously overpack and yet forget important items . 

So, pause for a few minutes to  think about what you really need . What plans have you made for your trip? 

• A nice dinner out? 
• A special event like a concert? 
• Outdoor activities like hiking? 
• Do the accommodations you booked include pool or gym facilities you want to use? 

Final thoughts on the overnight bag list 

When traveling for just an overnight getaway, try to resist the temptation to overpack. You don’t need multiple outfit options “just in case.”

But you don’t want to go to the opposite extreme either and not give any thought to what you need to take with you. That’s how you forget to pack essentials in your overnight bag. 

The packing list in this post is all you need to make sure that you pack well for your short trip. 

More articles related to packing for overnight trips 

• Essential travel planning resources  
• Romantic getaways in the South you need to consider  
• Travel essentials for women  

Pin this post!  

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

One Comment

You made a good point that it’s important to have a thorough plan first when planning to stay in a vacation home rental. I want to look for a good vacation home rental soon because I want to start planning for my honeymoon. I think that a simple staycation in a villa would be a good option.

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The perfect minimalist packing list

Use this minimalist packing list to banish the clutter in your life, live more simply, and travel the world without your bags holding you back from all the adventure that awaits you.

Rachael Let's Grow There

Sep 09, 2023

Travelers and digital nomads alike love packing light because they aren't tied to their belongings and are free to roam about as they please. Not only is a heavy bag cumbersome and annoying, but it may end up holding you back on your travels. A needlessly bulky bag could mean getting through TSA is significantly longer or it could make it difficult to find enough overhead space to store your bag on your flight.

Freeing up as much space as possible in your luggage enables you to live more simply and ditch bad habits that just bring more clutter to your life. Minimalism requires a mindset shift that takes consistent work.  A newcomer to minimalist packing may just assume that they need to bring less next time, but it is actually a strategic lifestyle change that involves a lot of foresight and planning to get the hang of! 

Becoming a minimalist packer requires lots of time, dedication, and the ability to separate your wants from your needs. You should first strive to achieve the  minimalist travel mindset before diving into experimenting with minimalist packing techniques . This will give you a more open attitude about letting go of old or unnecessary items and ultimately free up space for when you start the packing process.

What do you need to bring for on trip? What do you want to bring that you don't really need? What are you bringing "just in case" that you know you won't really use? What packing categories can you simplify and which are excessive to begin with? These questions should be at the forefront of your mind when you're setting goals to pack like a minimalist .  

First things first: get a smaller bag

Choosing the best travel backpack  (or luggage) for minimalist travel is no easy task. But, if you start packing with a small carry-on bag, you are forcing yourself to use only that bag to put all your belongings in. This is a great way to start packing like a minimalist! Starting off with a smaller bag in the first place will set you on the right path towards a lighter, more practical way of traveling .

Downsizing is easier if you don't have any extra room in your bag to pack unnecessary items you may never use on your trip. It might be easiest to stick to carry-on luggage only , and if possible, to eliminate the need for your flight's overhead storage bin by having a bag that fits right under the seat in front of you. 

The best bags are able to compartmentalize what's on your packing list so that everything is organized and accessible. Travel backpacks, daypacks and cross-body duffel bags are perfect for carry-on only travel . 

Only the essentials

Now it's time to analyze your packing list . Whether you're considering what to pack for long term travel or for a short trip, t his is the process that will help you determine what things are essential and what are non-essential and can be left behind altogether. Here are some questions that can help you narrow down your packing essentials :

• What items do I love?
• What habits do I have that can be cut out from my routine temporarily? (These could include straightening hair, wearing jewelry, etc.)
• Is this item too heavy?
• Are there any travel-sized versions of this item that I could bring instead?
• How often do I actually use this item while traveling?

Let these questions serve as a guide to help you decide what you will be packing and what you don't really need to bring with you.

You might be saying to yourself, "Okay, but just what are the essentials I should be taking with me?" You'll want to be sure to bring your passport, ID, cash, and credit cards with you. Of course, bring your phone, its charger, and headphones to keep you connected with your family while you're away, take photos of memorable moments, and keep yourself entertained in your down time.

Other essentials you'll want to include in your carry-on are a light jacket, your toothbrush, comfy walking shoes, a water bottle, and any prescription medications you might need. These are the basics that you'll need as you travel. Anything else of importance such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste can be purchased in your new destination.  

Create a capsule wardrobe

If you know you are an over-packer especially when it comes to clothes, then you may be in need of a capsule wardrobe! A capsule wardrobe is basically a trendy name for a super small but useful collection of clothes you love and can be cycled through each week. 

Basically, a capsule wardrobe includes a few pieces of clothing that can be mixed and matched, maximizing the space in your bag as well as the time it takes to pick an outfit each morning! 

If you already know that each piece goes together well, choosing an outfit suddenly becomes a breeze.  A good capsule wardrobe includes clothing you' ll need for the following categories:

• Formal Attire
• Accessories

You can adjust these categories of your capsule wardrobe based on your lifestyle or what type of trip you'll be taking . With this in mind, collect all the clothing you'll need for each category, and then reduce! How useful is each piece? How well would they match with other pieces in your capsule wardrobe? How well does each item fit you?

Now choose 9 tops, 5 pants, and 3-4 pairs of shoes. Always strive for choosing even less than this depending on the length of your trip, the season, and what categories you need to include. Voila! You have now successfully crafted your very own capsule wardrobe that will prove to be an incredibly smart choice in your quest to pack like a true minimalist .  

Keep reading: 

• How ecotourism benefits the environment and local communities

Top 13 tips on how to make sustainable travel a reality

• Carbon neutral travel: how to reduce your carbon footprint

Limit your toiletries

This one is really up to your personal preference. Those who practice minimalism closely might decide that the only hardware they need to bring is a toothbrush. Others who are newer to travel packing could choose to bring miniatures of each liquid , cleanser, or small tool they will need. All of these items can be tucked away into a small toiletry travel pouch that will be readily available if you should ever need it.

As a rule of thumb, remember that you probably don't need every little balm and cleanser you would normally use in your daily routine. Strive to also eliminate non-essentials in your list of toiletries as well. You definitely do not need to wear a full face of makeup or have perfectly gelled hair while you travel, so be sure to figure out which products and habits you can leave at home.

Shoes and Accessories

Again, depending on what season it is in the area you're traveling to as well as the activities you have planned, shoes and accessories will vary .

Open-toed shoes like flip flops or sandals are a must for any trip so that you can lounge in comfort. A nice, well-worn pair of walking shoes is also a good idea, as these babies will likely become your best friends as you explore the world city by city! You can leave it at that or add in a pair of boots or fancier shoes for a night out on the town.

When you think about accessories you probably think of jewelry, sunglasses, and hats. However, accessories involve much more than simply putting the finishing touches on your favorite outfit.  People pack accessories because, for whatever reason, these items provide some level of value to them . 

For instance, it's a no-brainer to bring an adapter for when the plugs change up on you in different countries. Ear plugs will help you rest and recharge on your trip. If you' re into travel journaling , that might be something to bring to record your thoughts and collect your memories in writing.

With accessories, the possibilities are endless, so choose them wisely! Too many accessories can add up and create a chaotic mess in your bag for you to sort through. This would defeat the entire purpose of minimalism! Your accessories can add flair, but most importantly, they should be tools that make life on the road a lot easier. 

Which gadgets to bring along

Speaking of tools, technology is the mother of tools! 

Every traveler is different. Some pack the bare minimum of gadgets just to get by. Digital nomads bring a lot of gear with them to create content on the go , so their bags tend to include a lot more gear, such as a DSLR camera, several lenses, their laptop, etc. 

How do digital nomads pack all that fancy gear into a carry-on only, you ask?  There are so many options out there in terms of small bags with huge storage. So, if you need to take all your gear with you on your next flight, don't worry, you can still be a minimalist! Check out the Worldpacker's digital nomad packing list to learn more.

You've finally chosen everything you’d like to bring on your next adventure, but how do you fit it all in your especially tiny carry-on? Some space-saving packing strategies to try are:

• Roll your clothes or use the KonMari method to fold them as small as it gets
• Stuff socks or underwear into a hat to keep the hat from losing its shape
• Wrap belts in the collars of your shirts to keep the collar stiff
• Put your shoes at the bottom of the bag and stuff them with socks and underwear too
• Wear your bulkiest item so it doesn't add to the weight you're carrying 
• Toss in some dryer sheets to keep your clothes smelling fresh when you unpack
• Put small cords and accessories in a sunglasses case
• Use a pill case to store your rings and jewelry so they don't get tangled
• Packing cubes!

Utilize every nook and cranny in your bag, but don't try to fill it completely . This leads to over-packing unnecessary items and over-packing. There are lots of clever ways to pack your carry-on , and most of them prove to be good decisions in the long run. 

Here's our perfect packing list for men and women , for any destination, in any climate, for any occasion! Of course, some items on this minimalist packing list are specifically for females , but for the most part, what I've provided here is gender-neutral and can be used by anyone looking for a solid foundation of what to pack for minimalist travel .

I've included everything you'll need to pack in your carry-on to ensure you're prepared for anything life may throw at you while you explore.  Keep in mind that any toiletry that is a liquid doesn't have to be packed , but instead can be bought when you get to where you're going. Plan to wash your clothes each week as you travel, and make sure your outfit pieces can coordinate with each piece's color scheme easily.

• Passport/ID
• Credit cards/cash
• Water bottle
• 3 t-shirts (also for sleepwear)
• 1 blouse/button-down shirt
• 1 long sleeve shirt
• 1 light jacket
• 1 dress/special occasion attire
• 1 pair leggings
• 1 pair pants
• 1 pair shorts
• 1 bra + 1 sports bra
• 3-6 pairs of socks
• 6 pairs of underwear
• 1 bathing suit/swim trunks
• 1 windbreaker
• 1 packable down jacket

Toiletries (travel-sized)

• Mini hairbrush/comb
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Nail clippers
• Moisturizer
• Contacts/contact solution
• Hand sanitizer
• Tiny first aid kit with bandaids
• Diva cup (for the ladies)

Limit your makeup to the three most used products in your makeup arsenal. A good start would be:

• Lipstick (for when you’re feeling fancy)

Shoes & Accessories

• 1 pair walking shoes
• 1 pair open-toed shoes
• 1 pair dress shoes
• Hair ties + bobby pins

Optional Items

• Dry shampoo
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Prescription medications
• Journal/pen
• Laptop, charger, external hard drive
• DSLR camera, lenses, batteries, SD cards

Whether for two weeks or for a month, this minimalist packing list will serve you at the beach in Southeast Asia, or while exploring cities in Europe during the winter months .

Finally, remember that becoming a minimalist packer requires lots of time, dedication, and the ability to separate your wants from your needs. Use the tips and packing list I've provided to inspire you to achieve the minimalist travel mindset and begin experimenting with minimalist packing techniques .

What are your experiences with minimalist travel? Tell me in a comment below!

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Rachael Grow

Let's Grow There

Over the past five years I have worn many hats as a creative freelancer and have been able to pursue adventures across the globe. To me, travel is more than checking a box or sitting on the perfect beach all day. Travel is about self-discovery, keeping an open mind, and learning through culture immersion. In 2017 I was chosen by one of my favorite travel bloggers, The Blonde Abroad, to attend her first ever blogging retreat in Bali with a handful of other inspiring bloggers. It was truly a dream that taught me so much more than I could imagine. Fast-forward to 2019 when I was given the role of one of the lead English writer for Worldpackers. My in-depth articles touched on subjects like volunteer work, overcoming post-travel blues, outdoorsy tips, and boldly adventuring. Inner growth is my jam.

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Write here your questions and greetings to the author

May 23, 2019

interesting topic thank you

Rachael (Author)

Jun 03, 2019

Thanks for reading!

Jul 30, 2020

This was totally helpful, thank you! I’ll be following this on my first WorldPackers experience :D

Mar 28, 2023

Lovely tips!

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Why you should embrace the minimalist travel mindset

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65 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials: Your Complete Packing Checklist

Get organized with our road trip essentials checklist including gear recommendations and a printable packing list to ensure a smooth journey.

There is an undeniable magic to a good road trip: the freedom of the open road, the opportunity to visit unparalleled sights, and the unique experiences that you stumble upon along the way. However, creating these unforgettable moments requires effective planning and smart packing of the right road trip essentials.

At Bearfoot Theory, we’ve gone on our fair share of road trips and experimented with a plethora of gear – some items have worked well and others not so much. We know that packing for a road trip can easily turn into a stressful part of your journey if organization isn’t your forte – there’s nothing quite as disheartening as realizing you’ve left something important behind.

In this post, we’re excited to share our top selection of road trip gear that will help you optimize your road adventure to its fullest. You won’t need a tricked-out van or struggle with a daily game of Tetris trying to fit everything into your trunk. Keep scrolling for our road trip packing list that covers the gear essentials for ensuring a safe and amazing time on the road.

Download our PDF road trip packing list

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Download a printable version here and subscribe to our newsletter while you’re at it!

Entertainment

Kitchen items, vehicle essentials, clothing, footwear, & accessories, personal care, miscellaneous.

Download a printable version here

Road Trip Navigational Tools

While part of the fun of a good road trip might be getting lost and exploring remote back roads, it is crucial to have reliable navigational tools so you don’t end up utterly lost.

Here are our recommendations for road trip maps and apps:

Paper Map or Atlas

Although we all know Google Maps is essential for directions, I persoanlly like carrying a paper map too. Plus, hopefully some of your itinerary will take you off the grid and out of cell phone service.

For that reason, you’ll want to carry a paper map or road atlas. Paper maps are also better than phone apps for telling the difference between a well-graded gravel road and a gnarly 4×4 road.

My favorite paper maps are the Benchmark Road and Recreation Atlases which also detail public lands, camping areas, National Parks, and more.

Shop Benchmark Road and Recreation Atlases at:

A GPS is handy for navigation when you don’t have cell service. If you don’t want to purchase a GPS, download Google Maps for offline use or use the app maps.me instead. This is a helpful free app that you can use to navigate and find sights and amenities even without cell service.

Just be sure to download the maps.me map for the region you’re going to be traveling in ahead of time so that it will work offline.

Still in the planning phase of your trip? Check out our road trip destination ideas here! And if you’re looking for a car camping checklist, head to our Car Camping Essentials blog post .

Road Trip Apps

Downloading a couple of apps before you head out will make road trip planning easier and will help you find things you’re looking for on the road like campsites, rest stops, amenities, and more.

The Roadtrippers App is a handy one too. It lets you save locations on the go, find destination points along your route, and locate lodging, gas, restaurants, and more.

The iExit App can help you determine the best areas to take a pit stop on major highways while you’re traveling.

Gas Buddy is a helpful road trip app that will help you find the cheapest gas prices so you aren’t wasting money when you fill up.

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Looking for more helpful apps? Check out our post on Must-Have Van Life Apps . Many of them are also great for road trips!

Road Trip Clothing, Footwear, & Accessories

Packing for a road trip means filling your bags with versatile, well-fitting, and durable clothes that allow you to do a little bit of everything.

You’ll want to have clothing, footwear, and accessories that:

While crazy patterns can be fun, I prefer to pack solid prints that will go with everything. That way, you don’t have to really think about packing specific outfits.

Here are a few of my favorite road trip essentials picks for clothing, footwear, and accessories. For more recommendations, check out the links below.

Road Trip Packing Lists

Road trip entertainment packing list.

Road trips are all about having a good time, right? Right. Make the drive fun with the following entertainment essentials. I also recommend keeping your day hiking essentials in your trunk too so you’re always ready for a spur-of-the-moment hike, should you need them.

Music Playlists

What’s a road trip without music? A good playlist will keep your energy up and will help the miles fly by. Load up your phone with plenty of tunes ahead of time in case you’ll be driving through areas with limited service. I’m a HUGE fan of Spotify.

Podcasts & Audiobooks

If music isn’t your thing or you need a break from rockin’ out, download a couple of audiobooks or a bunch of episodes of your favorite podcasts.

For suggestions, check out our favorite outdoor podcasts . The Libby App and Audible are also great resources for downloading audiobooks.

A book or two is always nice to have along on a road trip so you can read in your downtime.

We often like to bring books about the places we’re exploring so we can learn about the area while traveling.

Travel Games

If you’re traveling with kids, games are a great way to keep everyone happy and entertained.

But games aren’t just for kids! Bringing along a deck of cards or your favorite road trip games provides fun for everyone.

A set of headphones or AirPods are nice to bring on a road trip in case you need a little alone time.

Bring a camera to capture the memories on your trip and check out our photography page for tips and tricks for taking great photos.

Not everyone enjoys journaling or sketching, but a notebook is nice to bring along on a road trip for those who want to record their trip.

If you like to journal or make notes about the places you travel to, pack a small weatherproof notebook .

Shop Rite in the Rain Notebook at:

iPad/Laptop

An iPad or laptop is nice to have along for evenings when you just want to Netflix and chill. Download a few movies ahead of time for easy viewing.

Road Trip Snacks & Kitchen Packing List

One of the best parts about a road trip is tasty road trip snacks, wouldn’t you agree? Whether you’re a salty or sweet person, having quick and (mostly) healthy snack options can make or break a long drive.

It’s also a good idea to pack some kitchen and cooking gear even if you’re not camping so you can whip up that impromptu picnic.

Here are our road trip snack and kitchen essentials:

Healthy Snacks

Having healthy snacks easily accessible will stop the hanger from creeping in and help you avoid gas station temptations like chips and candy (no judgment though if you want to indulge!)

Some of our favorite road trip snacks are:

Planning on doing some hiking during your road trip? Don’t forget your favorite hiking snacks (which TBH, I also eat while driving!).

A cooler will keep your fruit, veggies, dips, and other snacks cold so you can eat fresh on the road.

If you’re just packing a few cold drinks and snacks, a small, lightweight cooler like REI’s Cool Haul 24 Soft Cooler is a versatile option.

Shop REI Cool Haul 23 Soft Cooler at:

Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is key for staying hydrated and eliminating single-use plastics.

An insulated Hydro Flask will keep your water nice and cold on hot days. I also like their straw lid version which allows you to easily drink one-handed while you drive.

Shop Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottles at:

Read next: How to Reduce Waste on Road Trips

In addition to saving money and avoiding plastic bottles, having a water jug with you makes for a quick and easy fill-up of your water bottle while on the road and before heading out on a hike. It’s also a smart thing to have in case you break down or run out of gas.

The GSI Outdoors Folding Water Cube holds 15 liters of water and has a convenient tap handle that prevents spilling.

Shop the GSI Water Cube at:

Consider bringing an insulated coffee mug for keeping coffee and tea hot on sunrise drives or making sure your beverage stays cold on hot days.

The Hydro Flask 20 oz Tumbler has a splashproof lid and its tapered design allows it to fit into most cup holders.

Shop the Hydro Flask 20 oz Tumbler at:

Muli Tool/ Swiss Army Knife

A multi-tool or versatile knife like this Swiss Army Camper Knife is always good to have along, whether for slicing apples, cutting rope, or opening that nice bottle of wine.

Shop the Swiss Army Camper Knife at:

Utensil Set

Saying no to single-use plastics is easy when you have a reusable utensil set with you.

This To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensil Set comes in a handy holder and is perfect for on-the-go meals whether you’re road-tripping or not. It comes with a fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, and a bamboo straw.

Shop the To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensil Set at:

Quick-Dry Towels

A set of small quick-dry towels is a great zero-waste alternative for wiping your hands and cleaning up messes and spills. A roll of paper towels works too.

Shop the REI Quick-Dry Towel Set at:

Reusable Bag

A reusable bag like the REI Stuff Travel Tote will come in handy for those grocery store stops along the way and once you arrive at your destination.

Shop the REI Stuff Travel Tote at:

Read next: Camping instead? Check out our Car Camping Essentials Packing Checklist .

Packing & Organizing Road Trip Essentials

Keep your stuff organized and easy to find with these road trip packing essentials.

Suitcase, Backpack, or Duffel Bag

You likely already have a suitcase, backpack, or duffel bag at home that you can use to pack for your road trip, it doesn’t need to be anything fancy, just something to comfortably hold your clothes and other belongings.

If you don’t own one already, we love the REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel .

Shop the REI Roadtripper Duffel at:

A day pack for hikes and other outings is always good to bring on a road trip. It doesn’t have to be big, just big enough to hold water, your phone, camera, keys, snacks, and other hiking essentials.

This Osprey Tempest pack has been my go-to for day hikes and adventures for a long time. The Osprey Talon is the men’s version.

Shop the Osprey Tempest Pack at:

Packing Cubes

If you’re like me, your suitcase (or duffel) can be a disaster. I tackle this problem by using packing cubes to keep all of my clothing organized while I’m road-tripping. Underwear in one. Socks in another. Pants. Shirts. Each category of clothing gets its own cube.

Shop REI Packing Cubes at:

Toiletry Bag

Having all your toiletries and smaller essentials in one bag makes it easy to find them when you need them.

This REI Co-op Shower Roll Bag is a favorite that makes it super easy to access all your toiletries in one place.

Shop the REI Shower Roll Bag at:

Road Trip Packing List for Personal Care

Getting out of your normal routine can make it a bit more of a challenge to keep up with personal care, but with these essentials, you’ll find your new road trip routine in no time.

UV rays can come through your windows so bring a tube or two of good mineral-based sunscreen , especially if you’re road-tripping in the summer.

It’s also handy in case you find an exposed viewpoint you want to picnic at or a sunny hike along the way.

Shop Sun Bum Sunscreen at:

Lip balm is always nice to have along in case your lips get extra dry. We prefer lip balm with SPF for sun protection, like this one .

Shop Sun Bum Lip Balm at:

Toothpaste & Toothbrush

Any old toothpaste you have at home will do, but if you want an eco-friendly, travel-size option, Hello toothpaste bites are a great pick.

Shop Hello Toothpaste Bites at:

Bring the toiletries you need from home, like soap or face wash, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant.

If you want to save space, try these refillable 2.5 oz  humangear GoToob+ Medium Squeeze Bottles . 

Simply fill them up with your favorite products and pack them in your toiletry bag.

Shop Humangear GoToob+ Bottles at:

Tissues or Toilet Paper

Tissues or a roll of toilet paper are always handy to have in the car on a road trip in case rest stops are under-equipped or you have to pee in the wild.

Just remember to pack out and dispose of your toilet paper in the trash .

Read next: How to Poop in the Woods and Leave No Trace .

You’ll want a way to tame that windswept hair after a long drive, so throw your hairbrush in with your other personal items.

A small, travel-size version like this one is always nice to have for trips.

Shop travel-sized hairbrush at:

Bandanas can be used in many ways and is sure to come in handy, whether as a napkin or as a headband t keep your hair from blowing in the wind when you’ve got the windows down.

The Nomadix Bandana Towel adds even more versatility with its absorbent microsuede material, SPF 50 protection, and anti-odor properties.

Shop the Nomadix Bandana Towel at:

Sometimes it’s nice to freshen up after a long drive, or maybe you’re hiking and camping on your road trip as well. A pack of wipes is always on our road trip packing list so we have the option to clean up a bit in a pinch.

The  Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes  are our favorite because they’re gentle on the skin and they are compostable (although you still need to dispose of them properly in the trash).

Shop Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes at:

Vitamin C/Immune Boosting Tablets

We like to pack hydration tablets on any adventure, and if they’re immunity-boosting that’s even better.

These NUUN Immunity Hydration tablets are easy to throw into your bag and pop into your water bottle when you need an extra boost.

Shop Nuun Immunity Hydration Tablets at:

Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is always good to have readily available, especially these days. We love this all-natural one from Dr. Bronners .

Shop Dr. Bronner’s Hand Sanitizer at:

Advil/Ibuprofen

While you won’t always need something like Advil or Ibuprofin, we like to include it on every road trip packing list since it can be a lifesaver when you get a killer headache and need it.

Read next: Camping Tips for Women: How to Stay Fresh & Clean on the Road

Miscellaneous Road Trip Essentials

These items are necessarily ‘essentials’ but they can make your road trip more comfortable and trouble-free.

I don’t know about you, but I consider a pillow a road trip essential (especially if you’re the passenger)!

Bring a comfy pillow from home or an inflatable pillow if you’re short on space. This NEMO Fillo Pillow is compressible, lightweight, and awesome for camping, backpacking, and napping in the passenger seat.

Shop the NEMO Fillo Pillow at:

Whether you’re reading in bed, going to the bathroom in the middle of the night, or rummaging around your car, you’ll want a headlamp nearby.

The BioLite Headlamp 325 is a go-to piece of nighttime gear that’s ultralight and rechargeable with a USB cable.

Shop the BioLite 325 Headlamp at:

Read next: Looking for more options? Head over to our post on the Best Headlamps for Hiking & Camping

A small blanket is a nice item to have along in case you find the perfect picnic spot or if you just need a little extra warmth at any point on your road trip.

We love Rumpl’s cozy, packable blankets – they won’t take up much space in your car and they come in all kinds of fun colors and patterns.

Shop Rumpl Blankets at:

Quick-dry towel

Be ready for those impromptu swimming hole dips with a lightweight, quick-dry towel like the Nomadix Original Towel . It’s also sand resistant, so if you’re heading to the beach, you don’t have to worry about tracking loads of sand back to your car.

Shop Nomadix Towels at:

First-Aid Kit

Stay safe and be prepared in case of an emergency by having a car first aid kit that has been personalized to your own medical needs.

This  My Medic MyFAK First Aid Kit  is equipped with all kinds of expert-picked first aid and trauma supplies. You can strap it to the back of a headrest for easy storage or just toss it in the back so it’s there when you need it.

We love that it comes with a small tearaway pouch that you can fill up with essentials and take on day hikes, backpacking trips, and other short adventures as well.

It’s more expensive than some other first aid kits, but it also has more supplies and lifesaving equipment than most.

Shop the My Medic MyFAK at:

Phone Charger & USB Cord

You’ll be surprised how quickly your phone battery will drain when using navigation mode and a variety of apps on your phone so it’s good to be able to charge from your vehicle.

If your headlamp and camera come with car-compatible chargers, bring those along too.

GPS Communication Device

I’d argue that the Garmin InReach is a road trip essential if you plan on exploring remote backroads where there is no cell phone service.

If you break down somewhere, the Garmin InReach allows you to send custom text messages no matter where you are or to call for medical help if you are in an emergency situation.

It also has a GPS and some helpful navigation tools for when the navigation apps on your phone won’t load.

My boyfriend Ryan is a Type 1 Diabetic, so when we are in the van or hiking, the Garmin InReach gives me added peace of mind.

Shop the Garmin inReach Mini at:

It’s always handy to have a little bit of cash on hand in case you come across a farmers market or a roadside stall or if you plan on camping at more remote campgrounds, which are typically cash-only.

Vehicle Road Trip Essentials

I won’t go into too much detail in this section because you should really have these basic necessities in your vehicle at all times, whether you’re road-tripping or not.

These include:

• Driver’s License and Registration
• Proof of Insurance and Contact Info
• Your Car Operation Manual
• Spare Tire and Jack
• Roadside Emergency Kit
• Jumper Cables (or a self-starting jumper )

Planning a road trip? Check out our other road trip tips, guides, and essentials:

• Car Camping Packing Checklist
• How to Road Trip with Your Dog
• How to Find Free Campsites
• Campervan Companies for Your US Road Trip
• How to Reduce Waste on Car Camping Trips
• Cheap Road Trip Tips: How to Save Money on the Road

We hope this road trip essentials checklist helps simplify packing for your next epic adventure. Now tell us: where are you headed and what’s on your road trip packing list?

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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16 Comments

Thanks for sharing such a great checklist, I Believe anyone who read this post will be valuable for him for sure. Regards, Team Yugo.pk

I love these lists! As busy as a work week can get, lists like this will help get me outside sooner and more often. I think it would be great if you had a PDF document in the form of a checklist, so I could gather items on the fly and know that I have them ready or loaded into the car/truck/van/camper. Just an idea for this page and great lists.

I like your advice about bringing a spare tire and knowing how to change should be part of the road trip necessities. We won’t know what would happen to us on the road during our trip. One possible problem that might arise would be a flat tire. Having a spare tire will allow us to change it immediately. However, if you’re not capable of doing it on your own you can call someone to assist you. This happened to me a few years ago, good thing I keep the contact details of my roadside assistance service provider which responded to my call immediately. Having this will lessen our worries. You might want to check the blog I’ve read a few weeks ago which provides a list of tips on handling a road trip like a pro. here is the link: https://blog.beepbeep.ph/road-trip-essentials/

I found your article interesting to read the must haves list for the road trip. There are lots of thing which I never remember to bring with me on the road trip. Thank for sharing these checklist.

What a great, comprehensive list. You can also add roadside assistance, it can be a lifesaver when we broke down 9 days into our trip. Loved the roadtrippers app as well. However, we made the rookie mistake of not getting a gas card until halfway through.

What do you normally have in your First-Aid Kit? We are crafting a blog post on our blog and we would definitely mention your website in it.

Its Nice., Thank you for your Necessity guides. These are useful to many.

Great checklist! One addition that we were glad to have on our recent road trip was our checkbook. During the Covid era, we prefer not to handle cash, and some campgrounds didn’t take cards, but writing a check and leaving it in the envelope worked great.

That’s a great tip, thanks Tom!

These modules are all great Lots of information and quite a few things i wouldn’t ever have thought of. However, why do i need to resubscribe every time i want one of your checklists? Seems like there one subscription should “do” and there should be a place i can just download what i want.

After requesting 3 or 4, it now tells me my request is successful but wont sent the mail with the download link.

This is irritating for me and would seem to create lot of duplicate ‘subscriptions” for you.

Hi Linda! Thanks for sharing that with us and our apologies for the inconvenience. There’s not a straightforward solution to this unfortunately as it would require us building out some sort of a membership page where people can login and download all the resources they want. At this time the way we have it set up is the easiest way for our readers to get the specific resources they want delivered to their inbox. It doesn’t result in duplicate subscriptions on our end as your email address is only added to our list once, and I am seeing that the emails for the checklists you’ve requested have been sent. Perhaps check your spam folder or try doing a search for Bearfoot Theory? If you’re still having issues please email me at contact (at) bearfoottheory.com and I’ll help get this resolved personally. Thanks again – we’ll keep your feedback in mind and will see if there’s a way we can improve this process 🙂

thank you, it was very helpful.

A night hike, river tubing, or secret single-track – you never know what adventure may arise while traveling. Don’t miss out because you don’t have the gear. Below are gear staples for us on any adventure:

Rain jacket Daypack Headlamp Water bottle Compass Swimsuit Dry bag (waterproof) Bandana or Buff headwear

Great list – you never know what adventure you could find yourself on!

Thanks for your wonderful work! Fun and practical — a breath of fresh air!

I’d like to add two items that simplify and improve road trips for us:

— A small (maybe 8-inch square) “front-seat bin” for each traveller. Keep your small personal items — sunglasses, reading glasses, snacks, medicines, phone, and so — on in one designated place to ensure that you don’t have to root around to find your things.

— Small waterproof duffle for each person’s shoes — hiking shoes, sandals, comfy campsite shoes. Keeps the car cleaner and, again, ensures that things are “where they’re supposed to be”!

Hi Roy, these are great suggestions! We love tips for staying organized. Thanks for sharing!

Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

Editor’s Picks

Airlines required to refund passengers for canceled, delayed flights

• Apr 24, 2024

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

• Apr 09, 2024

What to know about new Venice entry fee, other summer destinations with a tourist tax

• Apr 25, 2024

Save money on international phone plans for summer trips

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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6 Best Places To Stay in Rome in 2024

Updated : April 18, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, SMT

Table of contents.

• Centro Storico

Plan Your Trip to Rome With AAA

Rome has been a popular tourist destination since Caesar’s time, and it’s easy to understand why. The Eternal City’s rich history comes alive through its ancient landmarks, stunning museums and galleries, religious sites and spectacular food and culture. After a busy day experiencing the things to do in Rome , knowing the best places to stay in Rome can make or break your stay.

Whether you’re heading to Rome for a romantic getaway or to immerse yourself in the culture, we have the perfect place for you to stay. Read on to learn the six best places to stay in Rome, plus specific attractions and hotels in the area.

1. Centro Storico

Best For: First-time visitors who want to see it all

Centro Storico is the heart of the Eternal City in the oldest and most central part of Rome. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, its narrow streets are home to many of Rome’s most famous—and oldest—attractions.

Pack your walking shoes or hop on an electric bike tour to explore this area of the city, which has a lot of pedestrian-only areas. It tends to get crowded since it’s one of the most popular destinations in Italy, so be prepared to stand in lines to enter attractions and have other tourists in every photo you take.

Go with a plan, or just wander the narrow, cobblestone streets and pop into any cafe, boutique, museum or wine bar that sparks your interest. 

Can’t Miss Attractions in Centro Storico:

• The Pantheon  
• Piazza Navona  
• Largo di Torre Argentina
• Trevi Fountain  
• Piazza di Spagna

Popular Hotels in Centro Storico:

• Hotel Ponte Sisto
• 9Hotel Cesari
• Terrace Pantheon Relais
• Grand Hotel de La Minerve

2. Trastevere

Best for: Travelers wanting to experience Roman nightlife

Trastevere is a picturesque Medieval working-class neighborhood that’s now home to Roman nightlife. Its name comes from the Latin “tras tevere,” which means “beyond the Tiber,” and was once home to Julius Caesar’s villa Horti Caesaris , where he entertained Cleopatra. 

Many narrow, winding streets are closed to cars, so the area feels quieter and like you’ve stepped back in time. As you stroll through the charming markets and little shops on cobblestone streets with vine-clad buildings, you’ll feel like a local.

During the day, visit the many historic churches and museums before sitting down for some of the best food in the city. At night, join the locals for lively nightlife, street performers, live music and al fresco dining.

Can’t Miss Attractions in Trastevere:

• Piazza di Santa Maria  
• Basilica of Santa Maria (Basilica di Santa Maria)
• Villa Farnesina
• Ponte Sisto
• Corsini Palace (Palazzo Corsini)
• Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi

Hotels in Trastevere:

• Ventisei Scalini a Trastevere B&B
• B-B Hotel Roma Trastevere
• Sonder Trastevere

Best for: Travelers looking for a romantic stay

Once the slums of ancient Rome, Monti is now a hipster residential neighborhood bordered by the Colosseum and Via Nazionale. There aren’t as many cultural attractions in the area, so it’s quieter than some other neighborhoods while still being within walking distance of many major Roman attractions. It gives small village vibes nestled in the middle of the city, making it a great neighborhood if you’re looking for a quiet or romantic stay.

Monti is home to trendy and unique shops and nightlife popular with the locals. You won’t find many hotels, especially chain hotels, so you may need to book one of the many vacation rental apartments in the area instead. The nightlife means the area can get a bit noisy at night, but the cobblestone streets and local charm make it a popular place for romantic getaways.

Can’t Miss Attractions in Monti:

• Trajan’s Market (Mercati di Traiano)
• Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore)
• Golden House of Nero (Domus Aurea)
• Roman Forum (Foro Romano)
• Colosseum  

Hotels in Monti:

• Hotel Palazzo Manfredi
• Hotel Raffaello, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western
• Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo
• DoubleTree by Hilton Rome Monti

Best for: Travelers with families or older travelers

Prati, located just outside the city center north of the Vatican, is an elegant residential area of Rome. During the day, it’s filled with business people and lawyers who work at one of the offices or tribunal courts in the area. You’ll also see locals shopping at the blend of high-end and affordable shops along the Via Cola di Rienzo. At night, the neighborhood transforms into a social scene, with live music, wine bars and restaurants with tables spilling into the street. 

The family-friendly neighborhood is predominantly white-collar residential, so there aren’t a lot of major attractions, meaning you won’t be surrounded by as many tourists as you would be in other areas of Rome. You are within walking distance of the Vatican and have access to plenty of transportation to get you to any major attraction you want to visit during your stay.

Can’t Miss Attractions in Prati:

• Saint Angelo Bridge Methodist Church (Chiesa Metodista di Ponte Sant’Angelo)
• Castel Sant’Angelo National Museum (Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo)
• Sant’Angelo Bridge (Ponte Sant’Angelo)
• Tiber River (Fiume Tevere)
• Via Cola di Rienzo
• Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani )
• St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)

Hotels in Prati:

• Hotel Orazio Palace
• Atlante Star Hotel
• Le Meridien Visconti Rome
• Atlante Garden Hotel

5. Esquilino

Best for: Travelers on a budget

The largest of Rome’s seven hills is home to Esquilino, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Rome. Known for its beautiful churches and monuments, Equilino is a multicultural hub for the city thanks to its large immigrant population (be sure to check out the area’s Chinese, Ethiopian and Indian restaurants). 

Esquilino is a popular neighborhood for travelers on a budget. It’s quieter than Centro Storico, but you can still get to most of the major attractions in Rome on foot if you don’t mind a bit of a walk. The Roma Termini makes getting around Rome easy for travelers, and there are great restaurants in the area, including Fassi Gelataria, the oldest gelateria in Rome.

Parts of Esquilino are a bit run-down, and you’ll want to watch out for pickpockets (especially near Termini), but you’ll be safe during the day, no matter where you are in the neighborhood. 

Can’t Miss Attractions in Esquilino:

• Basilica di Santa Prassede
• Oppian Hill Park (Parco del Colle Oppio)
• Porta Maggiore
• Rome Opera House (Teatro dell’Opera di Roma)

Hotels in Esquilino:

• Hotel Artemide
• Hotel Nord Nuova Roma
• SHG Hotel Porta Maggiore

6. Testaccio

Best for: Travelers interested in food and seeing authentic Italy

The historically working-class neighborhood of Testaccio was once the site of the shipyards of ancient Rome, then home to the city’s slaughterhouse. Now, the neighborhood south of Aventine Hill is a bustling destination with a party reputation thanks to its many discoteques and street parties. 

The area isn’t touristy, so you’ll see Italian parents shopping at the local market while their kids play in the piazza. The area is the origin spot for many of Rome’s famous dishes, and you can’t go wrong with any restaurant you pass. 

Explore the beautiful street art, excellent restaurants and one of the best produce markets in Rome at the Mercato Testaccio. While you can walk to a handful of the major attractions, such as the Colosseum, you’ll probably need to catch a bus or use the Metro to get to popular tourist spots.

Can’t Miss Attractions in Testaccio:

• The Original Taste of Testaccio Food Tour
• Testaccio Neighborhood Food and Market Tour
• Protestant Cemetery of Rome (Cimitero Acottolico di Roma)

Hotels in Testaccio:

• There aren’t many hotels in the Testaccio neighborhood, but there are plenty of apartments or Airbnbs you can rent short-term during your stay.

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Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Thursday 25 April 2024 10:29, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes