travel packing tips 2022

Best Way to Pack a Suitcase to Maximize Space – 25 Packing Tips

By Author Delilah

Posted on Last updated: November 18, 2022

Let’s face it, packing your suitcase is one of the least exciting things to do when you’re going on holiday. Not to mention how difficult it is to fit everything in, and how easy it is to unpack it all when you’re only grabbing out a t-shirt and shorts.

We’ll try to make it easier for you. We’ve flown thousands of miles and lived out of our bags for months at a time. 

In this extensive guide, we’ll share our best travel packing tips for how to pack a suitcase to maximize space that we always follow. These are tried and true recommendations we can’t live without.

Travel Packing Tips

There’s no single way to pack a suitcase, but following these travel packing tips will enable you to fit way more in your bags, reduce weight and have a more enjoyable trip overall.

1. Fold AND Roll Clothes to Save Space in Luggage

Rolling clothing to save space is the oldest trick in the book. Some still argue that folding takes up less space, but the general consensus is that rolling definitely helps. It might just come down to the fact that rolled clothing can be squeezed into smaller spaces and corners than folded clothes.

How to Roll Clothes for Packing

The best way to roll clothes for packing is to fold the garment into a rectangle first before tightly rolling it into a cylinder the width of your packing cube. This will ensure a snug fit, minimize wrinkles when packing clothes and keep things organized.

2. Use Packing Cubes

We used to think there was no need for packing cubes. We were so wrong! You’ll be surprised at how much you can squeeze into these cubes and you can easily separate out your t-shirts, pants, underwear etc. 

This makes it so much easier to find items rather than rummaging through your suitcase trying to find ‘that’ t-shirt. It also means keeping things organised and tidy.

We’ve travelled for up to 6-months at a time living out of our suitcase using a couple of sets of these affordable Bagail packing cubes from Amazon and they’ve been perfect.  They’ve lasted for years and the quality is top notch, especially for the price you pay.  

We recommend them to all our friends and family – they’re probably the best value packing cubes you can buy right now. Sure there are lighter and more durable options but the cost doesn’t

Buy It On Amazon

The next best alternative would be the Amazon Basics packing cubes which we found to be very similar and well constructed, however, slightly more expensive for what you get.

3. Use a Lightweight Suitcase

It’s easy to forget your suitcase takes up part of your weight allowance. The lighter your suitcase, the heavier the items you bring can be. When packing for air travel on budget airlines, you’ll need to be even more conscious of this due to strict weight limits.

Opt for a lightweight suitcase or even consider a large backpack (although we wouldn’t recommend a duffel bag). This is often preferred if moving from place to place every few days or if you’re travelling to somewhere remote with gravel roads where lugging around a wheely bag may get tricky and damage the wheels.

When choosing a suitcase, we recommend one that has 360 degree wheels and a hard outer case, as well as sticking to the best, most popular brands. American Tourister and Samsonite make the best rolling luggage available, whilst AmazonBasics is a great, lightweight and affordable option.

Best Suitcase: Samsonite Freeform

Best Budget Suitcase: Amazon Basics 21″ (honestly, this is perfect for most people)

Best Hard Luggage Set: Samsonite Winfield 2

Best Travel Pack: Osprey Farpoint 40 and Osprey Fairview 40 for individuals, Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 for couples

4. Create a Travel Packing List

Spend five minutes writing down all the items you need to bring, and this packing tip will save you so much time and stress in the long run. It’s so easy to forget the little things like a phone charger, pen or a hairbrush.

Creating a structured packing process is essential. Write everything down and tick the items off your travel packing checklist once you’ve packed them. You can even prepare multiple packing lists for various types of trips. For example, we have different packing lists for snow trips compared to beach holidays.

5. Pack Travel-Sized Toiletries

Liquids tend to be quite dense and heavy, so only packing what you need will free up both storage space and weight in your bag. It’s a great idea to pack toiletries after transferring the liquids into smaller bottles.

A pack of four bottles is enough to last one month of holidays for two people. We’d fill them with shampoo, body wash, conditioner and body moisturiser.

For trips longer than a month, we’d still carry these around. Many hotels and hostels provide you with a small bottle of shampoo and soap, so we’d save these and fill our bottles when required. 

There are heaps on Amazon to choose from and they’re super affordable and well worth the investment. These ones look awesome and are the perfect size (four 100ml bottles) – we’d buy them if we didn’t already have some!

Just remember the TSA liquid’s rule (many international governments also follow this rule) if you plan to bring them on your carry-on – don’t bring any greater than 100ml.

6. Leave Half the Clothing You’ve Packed at Home

I’ll admit, I’m guilty of overpacking every time, even for full-time travel with 40L of luggage space. One of our favourite travel packing tips is, once you’ve created a packing list, remove half of the clothing items on there. If you pack something as a ‘just in case’, you’re probably not going to use it.

7. Pack Travel-Sized Towels

I don’t mean to sound dramatic, but the Sea to Summit Drylite Travel Towel changed my life. It takes up a fraction of the space of a regular microfibre travel towel and folds down to the size of my hand!

Towels take up so much space in your bag, so opt for a travel towel. Make sure you pick one that absorbs water well and doesn’t smell after multiple uses.

The Sea to Summit towel often sells out, and although we’d recommend trying to find it, this one by Bagail looks to be the same material so should get the job done the same.

8. Utilise Unused Space When Packing a Suitcase

Shoes are the biggest culprits of unused space in your suitcase. Store socks in your shoes, or whatever else you can find that fits.

If you’re planning on bringing a collared shirt and a belt, roll the belt up to fit inside of the collar. It’ll help the collar to keep its shape while in transit and prevent wrinkles.

Pile all of your bras on top of each other, lining up the cups. Fold a bra in half down the middle, and store a few socks between the cups. Not only are you saving space, but it’ll also help the cups keep their shape.

9. Reduce Shoes in Your Luggage

Shoes are incredibly bulky items and can be awkward shapes to pack.

Limiting the number of shoes should be your first point of call to maximize suitcase space – they just take up too much room. All you really need is a comfortable pair of walking shoes and some sandals.

Ditch the heels. Especially if you’ll likely be out and about during the day, then go straight out to a restaurant and bar at night. Instead, choose a nice sandal you can wear all day and night.

Best Travel Shoes

There are two pairs of comfortable shoes I swear by for both holiday and everyday use. Birkenstocks (I have the Arizonas) and Adidas Ultraboosts (we have the men’s 4.0 and the women’s 22). They’re both unisex as well which is a bonus.

10. Pack Dryer Sheets For Dirty Laundry

Put dryer sheets in your dirty laundry bag to keep your clothing from smelling, especially if you’re unable to do your washing for a week or more. The sheets take up virtually no space in your checked luggage.

11. Pack Travel-Size Makeup in Your Suitcase

When travelling full-time I need to cut down my beauty products significantly, opting for a very lean kit allowing for more space in my checked bag.

Fortunately, a lot of brands offer their most popular products in smaller packaging that is convenient for travel.  Here are some of my favourites:

• Tarte Tarteist Mascara – A great mascara in a small size.
• Benefit Roller Liner – Thin and accurate eyeliner that is absolutely tiny.
• Benefit Lip and Cheek Stain – Benetint is my favourite colour for a light blush or tinted lips
• Tarte Tarteist Palette – Blush, bronzer & highlighter in one
• Mario Badescu Facial Spray – A refreshing, must-have facial spray for anyone travelling for long hours. 100% game changer.
• Sponge Blender – Switch out your foundation brush, concealer brush, setting brush, face brush and more. This is the ultimate travel makeup tool. 
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen – The only sunscreen we’ve found that feels like it isn’t there. It’s super thin and doesn’t leave your face greasy, plus the SPF is legit.

12. Use Zip Lock and Plastic Bags for Storage

You’ll never know when these will come in handy; whether you need a place to keep wet swimwear, dirty laundry or leaking toiletries a plastic bag always comes in handy.

13. Ditch the Umbrella or Bulky Raincoat

Umbrellas and big raincoats are bulky. Ditch these and buy a light, pocketable raincoat. Don’t be fooled by a jacket advertising ‘water resistance’ as this will only withstand showers. Instead, make sure you’ve got something waterproof.

For anyone looking for a cheap, lightweight AND waterproof rain jacket the Marmot Precip Rain Jacket for Women and for Men are undoubtedly the best value rain jackets you can buy.  At under $100 and under 300g nothing comes close.

We’ve found the brand Marmot to be great for waterproof raincoats. Even better, they’re pocketable so they take up barely any room and are convenient to carry around during the day. Great for both hot, humid weather and for colder weather, they’re easy to layer underneath.

14. Pack Two Full Outfits in Your Carry On Luggage for Air Travel

Fingers crossed your luggage doesn’t go missing, but if it does happen, you’ll be prepared. If you’ve got space, pack your bathing suit, another pair of shoes and plenty of underwear too. Be sure to pack all your chargers and tech equipment as well.

15. Pack an International Travel Adaptor

Travel adapters are bulky to pack, especially if you’re travelling to multiple countries with different power outlets.

Our Belkin one is our favourite as it has two USB ports to charge our phone and two powerpoints. We’ve found this Joomfeen Travel Adapter to be a lot more practical though. It’s smaller and has retractable pins which prevent any damage and makes it an easier shape to pack.

We recommend checking the voltage of your destination countries beforehand as this may affect the adapter you should buy.

16. Bring an Empty Water Bottle in Your Carry-On Bag

Once you’re through customs, buying water is incredibly overpriced. One of our favourite travel packing tips is to bring an empty water bottle that you can fill up before getting on the plane.

Hydroflask makes the best water bottles for travel. We love ours, they are extremely durable, packable and keep drinks warm or cold thanks to the insulation. The only issue is the weight, a tradeoff ultralight travellers may not wish to make.  

Our favourite is the wide-mouth Hydroflask with straw .  It’s the most convenient and keeps drinks warm/cold for hours.  

Some of the more sustainable travellers we’ve met have opted for the Grayl GeoPress which allows them to drink tap water anywhere in the world and filter it quickly in the bottle.

17. Consolidate Chargers With a GAN Charger

GAN chargers are a life changing innovation that now allow travellers to charge multiple, high-powered devices from one charger. 

Our favourite for most people is this Amazon Basics 2-Port GAN Charger . It offers two ports, one with enough power to charge your cellphone and another high-powered port for charging a laptop.

We have a lot of high-powered devices so we use this more powerful Anker GAN Charger which is an absolute beast.

18. Pack Shoes in Shower Caps

You never know what’s on the underside of your shoes so don’t let this touch your suitcase. Instead, place shoes in shower caps (these are sometimes provided in your hotel room) or simply opt for a plastic bag.

19. Choose Multi-Purpose Items

It is efficient to pack items that can serve multiple purposes, so you can cut back on what you have to bring. This will help free up extra space for other items and stay under your weight limit.

There will be an upfront cost if you don’t already own these items, but it’s totally worth it if you’re looking to maximise your baggage space and pack your suitcase efficiently.

Sarong: Great to wear to the beach, use a picnic blanket or for covering up when visiting a temple.  A lightweight sarong will get a lot of use on your trip.

Snap-lock bags: make your bag leak-proof from toiletries, keep small items from getting lost, store dirty laundry and store shoes to keep the soles off your clothes. You can even attempt to use them as compression cubes.

Paper clip: keep your travel documents together but also use it to get your sim card out of your phone.

Bulldog Clips: keep your travel documents together and use them to cover your razor and toothbrush.

Safety pins: these come in handy to mend clothing, attach wet laundry and remove a splinter. I use these to pin a secret pocket to the inside of my pants so I have money available in an emergency.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has so many uses. A moisturiser, lip balm, sunburn relief, leave-in hair conditioner, and even shaving cream. A little goes a long way so you won’t need to pack much at all.

20. Build a Travel First Aid Kit

This is probably the only item in your suitcase that you hope you’ll never have to use, but you should definitely have on hand.  I know I was glad when I injured myself on a hike in New Zealand !

We’ve built up our own first aid kit to ensure we only brought the absolute essentials. However, there are plenty of options you can buy online. 

This First Aid Only First Aid Kit is a great option for people looking for something they can buy once without needing to buy individual items. Just bear in mind, it may contain a few extra items that you may not need (you can always take them out)

To save money and maximise space in your bags, we’d recommend you make one up and only take what you need. Our kit doesn’t take up much room at about  7” x 5” x 3”.

This is what’s inside ours:

• Medications: Ibuprofen, paracetamol, imodium, sore throat lozenges, antihistamines and cold/flu tablets
• Antiseptic cream for cuts/grazes
• Antihistamine cream for mosquito bites
• Band-aids/plasters
• Alcohol swabs to clean wounds
• Oral rehydration sachets for dehydration or food poisoning
• Small pair of scissors
• Sewing equipment: Needle, thread, buttons and safety pins

We carry this in our daypacks daily for that ‘just-in-case’ moment. If you do the same, remember to remove the scissors, needle and safety pins from your carry-on luggage before flying.

21. Keep Like Items Together

When going through airport customs, the last thing you want to do is fish around your bag looking for all your liquids. Don’t be that person who holds up the line! Keep everything together in a ziplock bag and it’ll make life so much easier.

This also goes for things like cables, camera gear, toiletries etc. It just makes it easier when looking for something in your bags.

22. Reduce Weight by Wearing Bulky Items On The Plane

If you’re aiming to pack efficiently, try wearing your bulkiest items on the plane. This automatically frees up space in your suitcase.

My partner got a mid-thigh length duffle coat tailored in Vietnam. Wearing this home on the plane saved about ⅛ of our baggage space. Planes are always air-conditioned and it can get quite cold. You should always bring a jacket anyway, so wear your bulkiest one on the flight and you’ll save even more space.

This doesn’t just apply to coats and jackets. Think sunhats (which can also be awkward shapes to pack) and bulky boots.

23. Consider Clothing Material & Colours

This is an easy way to reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring, especially if you are packing for a long vacation. Packing neutral clothing makes it easier to match with and thus allowing for more outfit combinations. 

If you love wearing colour, consider packing colourful dresses that you’d wear by themselves, whilst sticking to neutral t-shirts and bottoms that you can mix and match easily.

It’s also a good idea to choose lightweight clothing materials to reduce weight in your suitcase.  Materials like merino wool and synthetic sports fabrics are super lightweight and great in hotter areas.

24. Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom of Your Suitcase

It’ll be easier to wheel around your suitcase if you pack the heavier items at the bottom. Pack toiletries and shoes at the bottom of your suitcase. If you have any lightweight or fragile items then it is a good idea to pack these securely at the top.

25. Dry Your Laundry on a Travel Line

Holidays longer than 10 days will usually require doing the laundry at some point.

Pegs take up a lot of room, whereas a piece of string on its own doesn’t cut it especially if you’re hanging clothes outside and don’t want anything to blow away or disappear.

This Sea to Summit clothesline is woven together tightly, allowing you to attach your laundry securely (just stick a corner or each clothing through the holes) without using pegs.  We find it better than the ones with suction cups (which end up falling off).

How to Pack a Suitcase

The best way to pack a suitcase is to use a combination of rolling clothes, packing cubes and lightweight travel items. These packing tips will enable you to maximize the space inside your suitcase allowing you to pack more for your trip.

How to Pack Clothes to Save Space in Your Bag

The best way to pack clothes is to use the fold and roll technique. Start by folding your garments into a rectangle, then roll them into a tight cylinder the width of your packing cubes.

In addition to this, aim to pack small and light-weight clothing in your bags– you should leave the bulky items at home. Here are a few tips for how to pack clothes to save space:

• Fold & roll clothes
• Narrow down your must-have clothes
• Only bring light-weight, small garments
• Pack clothing in packing cubes
• Bring clothes with multiple purposes

How to Pack Shoes

The best way to pack your shoes in a suitcase is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

An extra tip is to fill the shoes with small items of clothing such as socks. We also aim to compress the shoes as much as possible by pushing other items up against them.

How to Pack a Suitcase for a Flight

Packing a suitcase for a flight requires packing as densely as possible, without going above the airlines’ weight limits. Follow tips such as rolling, using packing cubes and packing small, lightweight items.

In addition to the tips on this list, we highly recommend researching your airline’s luggage requirements. Ensure your suitcase is within the physical dimensions allowed and the final weight of your luggage doesn’t exceed the limits.

Does Rolling Clothes Save Space?

Rolling your clothes when packing will save space inside your suitcase. Folding alone can help to keep things organized, but will cause air pockets making it difficult to fit as many garments in. 

How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase

The best way to pack shoes in a bag is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start packing by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

Should You Unpack or Live Out of Your Suitcase?

For shorter trips the time and effort of unpacking and repacking your bags typically doesn’t outweigh the organisational benefits of having your bags unpacked at your destination.

When you spend over a week in a destination you can start to see some of the benefits of unpacking your suitcase.  However, we would typically recommend following the packing tips above to keep your suitcase well organised.  This should make it easy to find what you need without unpacking.

If you do choose to unpack your bags, make sure to keep track of where you store your items as you run a higher risk of leaving something behind.

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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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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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The ultimate packing list | travel checklist for for wherever you travel.

Our curated travel checklist to help you pack and prepare for your next vacation.

So you’ve finally booked your travel but now comes the most annoying and confusing part — packing and making sure you’ve done everything to be fully prepared. We travel thousands of miles a year so we have this packing thing down to a science. That’s why we’ve created this travel checklist (which also includes our favorite travel gear) to ensure you don’t forget anything during the pre-travel chaos.

We’ve divided this packing list into multiple sections:

Summer Clothing

Winter & off-season clothing, travel accessories, travel technology.

• Luggage & Packing Aids

Pre-Travel Checklist

More packing resources.

Let’s start with clothing since this is the bulk of what you’ll be packing.

• Underwear/Bras: A few quality pairs of underwear will make traveling much more comfortable — especially on an extended trip. Check out our favorite travel underwear to learn more.
• Sleepwear: Travel is exhausting so a good night’s sleep is essential. Wear whatever is comfortable.
• Athleta : Athleta has really stepped up their travel clothing and they have a lot of solid options. Some of their offerings feel like yoga clothes but there are some non-yoga choices.
• Lululemon : Lululemon has a number of good travel clothing options. Again, many of their options look a little too “athleisure” but there are some nice-looking choices.
• Prana : Prana is a company that has traditionally made outdoorsy clothing but they’ve recently started making more fashionable items.
• Anatomie : Anatomie has a bunch of higher-end, fashionable travel clothing.
• Uniqlo : Uniqlo always has a few great travel clothing options that are friendly on your bank account. Their stock is always changing so be sure to check them out.
• Shorts & Skirts: Warm weather calls for shorts and skirts — plus they take up very little space in your bags.
• T-Shirts: We always pack a couple of t-shirts for day-to-day travel and they work well for sleep. We like wool t-shirts from Wool & Prince and Unbound .
• Dress/Dress Shirt: We pack one slightly more formal outfit if we want to dress up a bit. Wool & Prince has nice wool options and Bluffworks has some nice synthetic options.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget a swimsuit if you’re heading to somewhere with a beach or pool.
• Light Jacket: Unless you’re traveling in the middle of summer, it’s usually smart to pack a light jacket — they’re also nice for chilly plane rides. Fleece or lightweight puff jackets are our favorite options. We love our Patagonia Nanopuff and Patagonia Better Sweater but anything will do.
• Rain Jacket: A lightweight rain jacket is nice if you’re traveling during rainy times. REI has a nice selection.
• Waterproof Shoes/Boots: We highly suggest waterproof or weather-resistant footwear if you’re not traveling during the summer. We like waterproof sneakers since they’re comfortable and functional. There are also more hiking-style shoes if you want a little more support.
• Shower Sandals: If you’re staying in a hostel or other budget accommodation then we highly recommend a cheap pair of sandals.
• Belt: Keep your pants on. Worried about safety? Check out these hidden pocket travel belts .
• Hat: You’ll probably spend a lot more time outside then normally so be sure to bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Sunglasses: We also suggest bringing a protective case or bring a pair that you won’t mind losing.
• Watch: Don’t miss that train because you’re late. We like using a watch instead of looking at our phone all the time simply because we don’t have to constantly pull our phones out.

Winter is great as long as you know how to dress for the cold weather and possible rain/snow. The real key is layering a few key pieces of clothing to create maximum warmth without adding a ton of bulk.

• Good Socks: A few nice pair of socks will help keep your feet warm and dry — which is essential in the cold weather. We like to put on a fresh pair halfway through the day. Smartwool & Darn Tough are our favorite brands but there are plenty more on REI .
• Base Layer: A thin base layer will add a ton of warmth so we always throw on a pair of long underwear. Our favorite fabric is fine merino wool since it is warm and resists odors. Synthetic is a much cheaper option but it doesn’t do a very good job of resisting odors. Browse REI to find something in your price range.
• Mid-Layer: A nice fleece or lightweight puffer jacket will add a ton of warmth when worn under a larger coat — and it’s especially warm when paired with a base layer. We use the Patagonia Nanopuff and Patagonia Better Sweater .
• Long-Sleeve Shirt: A long-sleeve shirt, whether a sweater or a button-up, are both great ways to add warmth without adding bulk.
• Hat, Gloves, & Scarf: Keep your extremities warm.
• Water-Resistant Footwear: Ideally, you’ll want a pair of waterproof shoes for those rainy or snowy days. Weather-resistant footwear is also a good option because fully-waterproof shoes aren’t always easy to find — especially if you don’t want boots or if you’re concerned about fashion.
• Winter Coat: A warm waterproof coat is a must if you’re traveling in really cold climates. REI has the best selection so check them out.
• Notebook & Pens: A small notebook is a great travel accessory because you never know when you’ll need to jot something down. We like to write down addresses and confirmation numbers so we don’t have to go searching through emails. Moleskine Notebooks are the classic choice.
• Guide Books: We’re still fans of guidebooks since they’re a quick and easy way to see what to check out in each location we visit. We’re fans of Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.
• USB w/ Important Info: Honestly, these days I save all my important information (credit card info, passport copy, etc.) to my Google Docs but it’s not a bad idea to have the information saved to a USB that you can hide.
• Travel Towel: If you’re staying in a hotel or rental apartment you don’t need a travel towel but people staying in hostels should consider packing a quick-drying travel towel .
• Money Belt: While we’ve never been big fans of money belts, there are a lot of people who swear by them. Check Amazon as there are multiple options there.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: An eye mask can be nice for sleeping on planes/trains and earplugs can be nice for noisy environments.
• Stain Remover: Washing your clothes isn’t easy while on the road so a stain remover will come in handy. Tide2Go Pens is our top pick.
• Handwashing Stuff: If you want to wash clothing in your sink then you’ll want a sink stopper , travel soap , and possibly a travel clothesline .
• Lint Roller: Be gone vile lint!
• Door Stop/Lock: If you’re staying in an unfamiliar place or traveling alone then using something like a portable doorstop or this portable door lock adds some extra security.
• Padlock: You’ll want a basic padlock if you’re staying in hostels so you can lock your lockers.

• Portable Battery Pack: Travel (especially GPS) kills your phone’s battery so a portable battery is a must these days. Amazon has multiple chargers so get whatever fits your budget.
• Plug Adaptor: If you’re traveling internationally then you’ll need a few plug adaptors for your electronics.
• Headphones: Confession, I love my Apple AirPods cause they’re amazing for travel. Not having to deal with wires or bulky headphones is a godsend — especially on flights. That said, we still pack a pair of normal earbuds just in case.
• Extra USB Cables: You can never have too many USB charger cables since I always seem to lose at least one when I travel. That’s why we throw an extra cable into your daypack so we always have one within reach.
• Portable Power Strip: Many hotels and hostels don’t have a lot of electrical outlets so a portable power strip is a nice thing to have. We use this Belkin Travel Power Strip because it also has USB ports.
• International Data Plan: Check your phone plan’s international rates because international data could cost you a fortune. While we’ve never used one, mobile hotspots have become a popular option if you need reliable data wherever you’re traveling.
• Camera w/ Extra Memory Cards: If you’re a photo geek then you’ll want to pack your digital camera. These days we mostly use our phones to take photographs but a camera is a must if you want really nice photos.
• Laptop/Tablet: We rarely travel with a laptop but we love our iPads. They’re great for travel since they’re small and powerful.
• Blowdryer/Curling Iron: Make sure your accommodation provides a blowdryer. If not, we suggest a travel hairdryer since they take up less space. Traveling abroad? Ensure you get a dual-voltage hairdryer or you’ll fry your North American dryer since Europe uses a higher voltage. The same goes for hair straighteners/curlers.

Travel Toiletries

• Pepto-Bismol Tablets: Travel can wreak havoc on your digestive system and Pepto tablets are easy to throw in your bag.
• Band-Aids: We mostly use bandaids for those pesky blisters on our heels so we always pack a few heavy-duty bandaids. There are also bandages for your heels if you’re prone to blisters.
• Body Powder: Lots of walking in hot weather can lead to chaffing — which is never any fun. Body power is a great way to help prevent some uncomfortable situations. We like Anti Monkey Butt or good ol ‘ Gold Bond powder .
• OTC Pain Medicine: Medicine is often only sold in pharmacies but many pharmacies are only open for limited hours so we always pack some so we at least have a few pills on hand.
• Basic Makeup: It’s easy to go overboard with makeup so we suggest only bringing the basics. Here are some skincare products and cosmetics .
• Toothpaste: We either start with a small tube and buy it once we arrive or throw in whatever we have at home. It also depends if we’re flying carry-on only or not.
• Toothbrush and Toothbrush Cover: We just pack our normal toothbrush and we clip on a self-sanitizing brush protector to help keep it clean.
• Floss: We’ve found floss to be expensive in some places so pack some.
• Shampoo/Bodywash: If you’re traveling with a carry-on then we highly recommend putting your liquids and gels into Go Toob travel containers because they won’t leak.
• Deodorant: Don’t stink.
• Sunscreen: We buy ours online since it’s expensive in the stores.
• Lip Balm: We pack a few tubes of lip balm because always end up losing a couple.
• Face Wipes : A pack of Resealable Face Wipes is great for freshening up after a long plane ride. Throw a pack into your carry-on.
• Moisturizer: Travel can be very dehydrating — especially flights.
• Jet Lag Pills: Arrive not feeling like a zombie. Miers Labs No Jet Lag is the most popular choice.
• Hand Sanitizer: To sanitize your hands.
• Contact Solution: Finding contact solution can be surprisingly tough in some places
• Perfume/Cologne: Scents and memory have a powerful connection so we like wearing a new fragrance when we travel somewhere new. We’re cheapos so we’ll often get some free samples from the store. But we suggest packing a Refillable Perfume Bottle Atomizer if you already have a fragrance you already own.
• Nail Clippers: Keep your nail game strong.
• Wet Wipes: These can be a lifesaver when you’re on the road.

Luggage And Packing Aids

• To learn more, check out our article on the best travel backpacks & the best travel backpacks for women .
• Daypack: You’ll want a smaller bag or backpack to wear while you’re out exploring during the day. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy but we recommend something with secure zippers to deter pickpockets. Here’s a list of our favorite daypacks .
• Toiletries Bag: Keep all your toiletries organized. We prefer toiletry bags that have a hook in case you’re staying in a bathroom with little/no counter space. Amazon has multiple options.
• Packing Cubes: The best way to keep all your clothing organized and relatively wrinkle-free is by using packing cubes. We always use packing cubes these days so check out our guide to the best packing cubes to learn more.
• Travel Liquid Bottles: There is nothing worse than when your liquids leak all over your stuff so we highly recommend using the GoToob Leak-Proof Travel Bottles .
• Plastic Bags/Ziplock Bags: Throw in a few plastic bags and ziplock bags since they come in handy. We pack our important documents in a ziplock bag for protection and we’ll put extra shoes in a plastic bag to protect our clothing from dirty shoes.
• Coin Bag: If you’re traveling to Europe then we suggest packing a small change purse/pouch since you’ll get lots of coins.

Ok, so you have everything packed but there are a few more things to think about before you depart.

• Get Travel Insurance: If you’re going on a big trip then you might want to consider picking up some travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical emergency or travel interruptions. We use World Nomads since they offer affordable insurance.
• Triple Check Your Travel Dates: You would be surprised at how many people mix up their travel dates — especially with international flights where you arrive a day later than when you left because of the time zones.
• Book Accommodation: You’ll almost always get the best deal on hotels, hostels, and rental apartments by booking early. We like Hostelworld for hostels, Booking.com for hotels, and Airbnb for rental apartments.
• Book Train Travel: Traveling Europe by train? You might save a good amount if you book your tickets early. Check out our guide on How To Travel Europe by Train . Also, if you’re traveling with a Eurail Pass then you’ll want to order it a few weeks before departure.
• Get Your Passport: Double-check your passport and make sure it is still valid since it can take a few weeks to get a new passport. Check out the State Department’s Passport page for information.
• Write Down Reservation Numbers: We like to write down all our reservation numbers in a small notebook so we don’t have to go searching through our email for those elusive numbers.
• Call Credit Card & Bank: Let your bank and credit card companies that you’ll be traveling because they might cancel your cards once you start using them overseas. We also recommend bringing an extra credit card for emergencies.
• Make Copies of Important Documents: Take a photo of your passport and credit cards and save them to your Google Drive or email them to yourself. This will help you get them replaced quickly if they get lost/stolen.
• Research Where You’re Going: You don’t have to plan out every minute of every day but spend a few hours researching things like what to see, cool restaurants, and nice bars. This way you don’t have to worry about missing something you really want to experience.
• Figure Out How To Get From Airport/Train Station: There are often a handful of ways to get from the airport to your accommodation so it’s smart to do your research before you arrive — especially if the destination is known for crooked taxi drivers.
• Download Audioguides: We’re big fans of Rick Steves’ free audioguide walking tours so we make sure to check if he’s made one for our destination.
• Check Your Phone’s Data Plan: Be sure to check your phone’s international data plan to see if you can use it abroad or see how much it will cost to use data.
• Hold Your Mail: If you’re going to be gone for a long time then you’ll want to have the post office put a hold on your mail.
• Break-In Your Shoes: Don’t make the mistake of wearing brand-new shoes as that’s a surefire way to get painful blisters. So put some miles on your shoes before you depart.
• Research The Weather: It’s impossible to predict the weather but you should take a look a few days before you depart so you can tailor your clothing choices.
• Arrange Visas: Not every country requires a visa for entry but some do so you’ll need to take that into consideration and give yourself enough time to get them.
• International Drivers License: Not every country requires an international driver’s license so do some research you plan on driving.
• Don’t forget to weigh your luggage to make sure you’re under the weight limits. We suggest picking up a luggage scale .
• Pack Some Travel Snacks: Having a stash of simple travel snacks like beef jerky, granola bars, etc. is always a good idea.
• Consider Getting Some Currency: Some people like to get a small amount of foreign currency before they depart. ATMs are easy to find these days but having a little cash on hand when you arrive gives you a nice piece of mind.

We’re always writing about the best travel gear and giving your our favorite packing tips. Here’s a list of more articles we’ve written in the past:

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
• Best Travel Pants for Men
• Best Travel Underwear (Men’s and Women’s )
• Best Hiking Socks For Backpacking Europe
• Guide to Fashionable Travel Clothes and Performance Techwear
• Best Daypacks and Day Bags for Traveling Europe
• Best Packing Cubes
• How To Properly Pack Your Backpack for Maximum Organization & Wrinkle-Free Clothing
• Guide to Ultralight Backpacking and Travel in Europe
• Tips for Choosing Between a Backpack or Wheeled Luggage
• Guide To Dressing For Winter in Europe
• How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe
• Women’s European Fashion — Tips for Dressing like a European
• Skincare, Makeup and Beauty Essentials For Travel
• Recent Posts
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024
• Best Prepaid eSIM For Italy | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 18, 2024

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

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

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

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

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

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

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

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

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

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

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

Clothes to Pack

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

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

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

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

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

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

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

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

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

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

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

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

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

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

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

Scrubba Untouched Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

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

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

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

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

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

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

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

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

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

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

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

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

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

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

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

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

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

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

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

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

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75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier

Packing , Packing Tips

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Don’t let the thought of packing stress you out! Give yourself a break and read our top 75 packing tips. Even the experienced traveler is sure to find some new tips!

Our Top 75 Packing Tips

Table of contents.

Delsey Luggage Helium Aero International Carry On Luggage

15 Packing Tips if You’re Going on Vacation

Pack a few essentials in your carryon or personal item   if you’re checking luggage. Don’t assume your luggage will arrive at the same time as you. Having toiletries, a clean outfit, and electronics in your carryon can help avoid some angst.

Test out luggage first-hand in a store to determine what’s most comfortable for you. Everyone’s needs and body types are different. You can always shop online afterwards for the best deals! Here’s everything you need to know about how to choose a suitcase .

Make sure the suitcase is easy to maneuver , doesn’t hit you on the heels as you walk, or drag too far behind you. Try it before you buy it!

Pack a couple  single-use detergent packs  if you’re on a trip that’s less than a month long and plan to hand wash clothes. For longer travels, buy detergent as you go – but pack a few to get you started.

Plan your clothing options according to what you’ll be doing on your trip and where you’ll spend the majority of your time. If you’re unsure of your exact plans, choose items that serve different purposes.

For warm climates, choose light and airy fabrics  that dry easily and will keep you cool. (Read this guide on the best travel fabrics !)

Portable Handheld Fabric Steamer

Wrinkles in clothing can be avoided with packing folders or by using the bundle method. Alternatively, hang the garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower, use a wrinkle-release spray , or a travel steamer.

When considering suitcase size , remember that there may be times when no one is around to assist you. Your luggage (and total weight) should be limited to what you can handle.

For rainy adventures , line the top and bottom of the suitcase with plastic, such as a dry clean bag. Even if your suitcase does get wet your clothing can remain dry. Packing cubes also help.

Use  packing cubes  to help you maximize the space in your bag. You can squeeze so much clothing into packing cubes that you’ll wonder why you ever needed a large suitcase!

Practice walking up and down at least one flight of stairs with a packed suitcase before your trip. Can you do it comfortably? If not, you may want to consider removing some items and downsizing toiletries .

You don’t need as much stuff as you think. Lay out all the clothes you intend to take…then put half of them away.

Don’t forget to leave space in your luggage  if you’re the type that loves to shop and bring back souvenirs!

Get a refillable fragrance atomizer  for your favorite perfume instead of packing the whole bottle.

Packing carryon is the best way to travel.  It’s not just about saving money on baggage fees. It actually makes your entire experience more enjoyable. Find out the true benefits!

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

15 Packing Tips if You’re a Backpacker

A backpack for travel is very special. Don’t just buy any old thing. Here’s everything you need to know about how to choose the best travel backpack . Use a  rain cover  for your bag to keep it bag protected, clean, and dry!

Walk around for 15 minutes with your fully-packed backpack to gauge your comfort level with carrying all your belongings. Is it too heavy? If so, you may want to consider removing some items and downsizing toiletries .

It’s important to pack travel clothing that’s durable but keep in mind that after you’re on the road for a while, everyone gets tired of wearing the same things over and over. Choose items that won’t fall apart after a few washes, but have a low enough price tag that you’re comfortable giving it up.

Pack light and your back will thank you later. Unless you’re going to the desert, you can always buy a few extra things you might need along the way.

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

In 2017, I launched Compass Rose Travel Accessories and my very first product was a  4-Piece Set of Carryon Packing Cubes . These are the only packing cubes  sized to fit the exact width of a carryon suitcase  and they also have a  unique color-coded and numbered organization system  – the only kind currently available anywhere on the market.

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

Save space in your backpack by using compression sacks .

Take a few plastic bags or Ziploc bags. You’ll always find them useful and they don’t take up any space.

Flip-flops are essential for every sun-chasing backpacker or budget traveler, especially if you’re hitting the beach, lounging around, or just want to keep your feet clean from grimy hostel showers. These flips flops  look like cute sandals and are wearable on and off the beach.

Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Do you really need hiking boots? Unless you’re doing some serious trekking, you can get away with something lighter and more versatile such as outdoor trainers or sneakers .

Don’t start your trip with clothing that’s already worn out even if you plan to give it away at the end of your trip. It will fall apart very quickly when you’re constantly re-wearing the same things over and over. There’s no point in starting out with items that are unraveling. Everything new will look old when your trip ends.

Sleeping Bag Liner

A headlamp is an essential item in your backpacking checklist that comes in handy more than you’d think.

A sleeping bag liner is important because it means you always have clean sheets, even in a not-so-clean hostel. In fact, budget hostels may not provide sheets at all! Unless you’re staying at boutique hostels or nice hotels, these are 5 reasons you should travel with a sleeping bag liner .

Don’t forget  duct tape .  There are endless uses when you’re on a backpacking travel adventure. Trust us.

eBags Pack-it-Flat Toiletry Kit

Choose a hanging toiletry bag with a handle or hook. Hostel showers aren’t always the most functional and you don’t want everything getting drenched.

Multi-use products help save toiletry space and weight. If you’re not a fussy traveler,  Dr. Bronner’s “Magic” Soap  can be used to wash clothes, as body and face wash, shampoo (if you have low-maintenance hair), toothpaste, and shaving cream, among other uses.

Learn to make a sock bun. It’s a quick and easy way to get longer hair under control as well as create natural, heat-free waves.

Rebecca Minkoff Julian Gold Hardware Backpack

25 Tips for Every Traveler to Pack Light Stylishly

Each clothing item should mix and match with the rest. With limited clothing options, it’s important to maximize your travel wardrobe. Choose items very carefully and plan clothing that’s interchangeable. Read Pack Light Stylishly as soon as you know you’re planning to travel. It’s your instant shortcut to becoming a more efficient and fashionable traveler!

It is possible to have a portable closet. The Pack  is a unique and highly functional backpack organizer that also works perfectly in a carryon suitcase, too. It makes packing and unpacking in a hostel or hotel a breeze. It has four drawers and you can hang it in your hotel closet or latch it to hostel bed rails (or even chairs). Want to unpack and pack in seconds? Learn more about The Pack  – a genius suitcase organizer!

The secret to a stylish travel wardrobe is in the accessories. Items – such as a statement necklace – are light and don’t take up much space in the suitcase, but can add so much to a simple outfit. (Shop TFG’s favorite accessories !)

But don’t overload on accessories. Pick and choose wisely. You don’t need to wear jewelry and accessories from head to toe. Less is more.

Stick to one color palette if you’re not a color pro. This helps you mix and match and maximize your capsule travel wardrobe . Remove any clothing items that are too close in style and color. For variation, choose prints in the same color palette.

Plan your outfits before the trip if you know your itinerary in advance. This way, you won’t make any fashion “mistakes” and it makes getting ready easy. Get organized and sign up for our free Travel Outfit Planner .

Every item in your bag should have multiple uses. An item does not need to be a “convertible” piece for it to serve multi-purpose.

Don’t forget about layers. For conservative countries  or transitional weather periods, you can layer clothing  – such as leggings or a long sleeve top – under a dress for more travel outfit options.

Choosing a jacket is like choosing a dress. Go with either a neutral color that will match all your clothing or select a vibrant color that will breathe some life into your basic travel wardrobe. These statement winter coats will breathe life into the most drab wardrobe.

Never pack traditional pajamas.  For PJs, choose two items that you sleep in but use for other activities, like leggings or a t-shirt. Here’s our quick guide on how to choose the best travel pajamas .

Pack Light Stylishly Ebook

Scarves, scarves, scarves.  Pashminas, wraps, sarongs, and scarves are versatile pieces and can be use in a million and one different ways. Here’s why everyone loves a sarong !

If you’re traveling in the heat, avoid dark colors.  Beat the heat and wear white and light-colored fabrics that reflect the sun and keep you cool.

You need a sports bra if: you’re planning outdoor adventures, trips with strenuous activities, or an overland safari. Unpaved roads can be brutal without support.

Convertible bras are great when traveling because they can be worn with various style tops without packing a bra for every top. Nude (or the color closest to your skin tone) can be worn under practically anything.

A bikini top makes a great backup bra option and is also commonly worn in place of bras when by the beach. If you use underwire bikini tops (or don’t need much support), you might even be able to skip a bra altogether and just use a bathing suit top instead.

ExOfficio Women’s Give-N-Go Bikini Brief

Save money on quality travel underwear at discount retailers by looking for fitness quality or microfiber fabric blends. These are good underwear brands to look out for.

Jeans are essential when visiting large cities and they’re also the perfect travel clothing item in cold climates. Don’t believe old travel clothing “rules” that say not to wear jeans when traveling!

Break in any travel shoes before you leave.  Wear them around your town at least a couple times and take them out for a hike or two if that’s what you’re into. Make sure they match all your clothing so you don’t end up with unwearable shoes.

Blondo Villa Waterproof Ankle Bootie

Three pairs of shoes is all you need.  Treat your feet well by bringing proper footwear and by not over packing shoes that you just don’t need. For travel shoes, three is the magic number. Sightseeing shoes, activity shoes, and one additional. Read this guide for everything you need to know about packing the best travel shoes .

Always wear warm layers for the flight ; planes can be extremely cold. Here are some popular airplane outfit ideas .

Don’t pack an equal amount of tops and bottoms.  It’s easy to re-wear bottoms many more times than tops. Pack more tops in the winter months and replace them with dresses in the summer.

Take double the amount of underwear that you think you’ll need. A girl can never have too many pairs of clean undies and they hardly take up any space anyway.

Avoid falling into the travel clothing trap. Some trips require technical travel clothing due to specific activities, weather, or environment. However, for general sightseeing in towns, cities, and beaches, your normal (carefully-selected) clothing will do just fine. (Here’s more  travel style advice on avoiding this mistake!)

Travelon Anti-Theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody

20 Tips for Smart and Savvy Travelers

Keep all valuables and travel documents in your carryon or personal item.

Distribute the wealth and spread your valuables out in different places so if something does get taken – they don’t get everything. Here’s a list of anti-theft products  and tips on how to keep your passport safe .

Don’t be that traveler in the security line at the airport. Here’s how to breeze through.

Make sure all your liquid items are inside a sealed bag. If one of the bottles spills, it won’t get all over your entire wardrobe.

Use plastic wrap under bottle caps to avoid spills .

Items have unexpected uses. A regular bar of soap can be used as shampoo and laundry detergent if necessary. Likewise, shampoo can also be used as soap or laundry detergent.

Replace several beauty products with one.  Olive oil and coconut oil are versatile and can act as a moisturizer, tame flyaways, and soften chapped lips. Here’s more about why body oil is great for moisturizing!

BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Hair Dryer

Replace liquid beauty products with solid toiletries or  travel wipes whenever possible. Everyone loves Lush solid shampoos , which last over 50 washes.

Should you pack your blow dryer? Find out.

Doing laundry is one of the secrets to packing less clothing. Find out how to do laundry while traveling.

If you plan to hand wash clothing, test it out! Wash the clothing you want to pack and let it dry indoors in the bathroom. If it takes longer than 24 hours, it may not be the best choice for your trip.

Scrubba Wash Bag

Use these helpful tools if you plan on hand washing frequently: consider taking a travel clothesline and sink plug or this cool device . Here’s a tutorial on how to hand wash clothing when traveling.

Some travel size items are just useless. Find out why and when to avoid them.

Earplugs  help neutralize sounds  from a bus, plane, train, a crying baby, or the snores from a hostel mate. Sleep easier or just experience a quieter journey.

Don’t pack more stuff just because you can. Just because your airline gives you 50lb baggage weight limit, it doesn’t mean you need to use it all. Pack what you actually need and avoid stuffing your luggage to the brim only because you have the space.

Not everyone’s travel essentials will be yours. Consider your own needs and preferences when planning your packing list.

International Travel Adapter

Purchase an international adapter that works around the world. Take care of your electronics by choosing a travel adapter that also acts as a converter and has a surge protector to avoid blowing a fuse. Learn more about voltage and how travel adapters work .

Bring copies of prescriptions for your glasses, contacts, and especially medication in case anything happens to any of these items. Never pack these in checked luggage.

Here’s a quick baggage allowance cheat sheet but as a general guideline: double-check the rules for ALL of the airlines you’re traveling with to ensure accuracy. Different airlines have varying baggage restrictions and they change over time.

Don’t pack “just in case” items. If you need it, you can probably buy it there.

Want the ultimate guides for packing light? Read our Pack Light Stylishly book to get started and take our master class if you’re ready to Stop Overpacking !

What are your best packing tips? Please share in the comments below!

For more travel packing tips, please read:

• The Ultimate Packing Guide for Overpackers
• You Can Pack Carryon for Any Trip. Find Out How
• How to Choose the Best Packing Organizers
• New to Travel? Start Here.

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We hope you enjoyed this post on our top packing tips. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

15 comments.

I really appreciate these travel tips – it helps make travel so much easier! On my first trip I checked a VERY large bag. No fun – it’s a small bag now.

A couple of things that have made my travel better: 1) an “S” hook—there are never enough hooks in a hotel room bathroom or closet. I’ve used it on every trip to hang wet bathing suit, towels, toiletry bag, scrubbies, and more! 2) a microfiber type cleaning cloth—have you ever tried using a regular bath towel to scrub off some shmutz on your clothes? You end up with a white lint trail. A microfiber cloth solves that problem, and more. And it dries quickly! Mine is not loopy fiber, but more like a travel towel texture.

Is it better for a couple to pack two smaller suitcases or one big one?

Hi Jeanette, if you’re wondering how to choose the right suitcase, we’ve put together a helpful guide to help you get started. Get ready for Suitcase 101 on choosing luggage right here: http://bit.ly/2TBhVRb Have a look at our roundup of the best luggage brands for travel and why they are so great: http://bit.ly/2T6urb0 Lightweight luggage, like those featured here: http://bit.ly/2HG3KCPare especially popular if you’re heading to Europe. You need to choose luggage that you’ll be able to comfortably lift and maneuver as you handle all the steps, hills, various transport methods with small luggage racks and tight storage space (trains, buses, etc.) :bullettrain_side:, and don’t forget about the cobblestone streets which make dragging a heavy suitcase around even more difficult! To get even more advice I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their awesome experiences and feedback. Hope this helps. Happy travels!

The Travel Rose converter is no longer stocked at Amazon. Do you have another recommendation?

Hi Ileia, thank you for reaching out! We have a range of recommendations for travel adapters on this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-travel-adapter/ Hope this helps!

Is TSA requiring you to send cell phones, Kindle & Ipads through screening – out of your carryon bag?

Hi Janice, thank you for your question! It looks like TSA have recently changed their policy about this, at the moment all travelers must remove any electronic device from your luggage and place them in the bins for the X-ray screening. Hope this helps!

It seems to depend on the airport. Flew in the last two weeks through DTW and EWR. Cellphone could remain in pocket of jacket or sweater, any electronic larger needed to be in a bin. What surprised me was the 3-1-1 bag of liquids did not need to be out of backpack.

I have been enjoying reading all of your tips and articles, which will definitely help reduce my light weight packing even more (just need to teach my husband – the ultimate over packer ?). Hoping you can assist me (plus sister and niece) with a shoe question we’re struggling with for our up coming trip. I’ve read all your shoe articles but am still unsure. We’re in NYC for Christmas and then over to California (pacific coast road trip plus LA). I have Sorel Tofino boots which are great for walking in the cold, however these are not going to be suitable if going out to the theatre, cocktails etc. what do you suggest taking? I have considered ballet flats but don’t think these will be warm enough in NYC but they will work when we’re California. I’ll be taking pewter sneakers to walk-in in California. Any suggestions are welcome. Many thanks.

Hi Lu, have a look at this article for some advice on the rule of three to packing shoes: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/vacation-shoes-for-summer/ Also take a look at this post on packing the best travel shoes: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-steps-to-packing-the-best-travel-shoes-for-any-trip/ If you follow the rule of three then pack one pair of shoes which are comfortable to walk in, so your Sorel Tofino boots, then you could also pack your ballet shoes for more formal events and then have the pewter sneakers for when you arrive in California! If you wear the heaviest pair of shoes when you travel that will help reduce your packing. Hope this helps. Have a great trip! 🙂

Thanks for your reply and links – they’re very helpful. Would you suggest to wear boots to my nighttime destinations in NYC and then change into flats once there? Not sure that outdoor boots would be allowable at some destinations eg Rainbow Room. Thanks again ?

Hi Lu, thank you for your feedback. Have a look at what this article has to say on shoes in New York: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-new-york/ 🙂

Great tips! Thanks for putting this list together!

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Travel Packing Hacks & Tips: The Ultimate Guide

Preparing your underseat suitcase or carry-on backpack for your next trip can sometimes be a struggle.

So many things to take, very little space!

And let’s not talk about the weight. You also have to lug that thing around the airport, or between locations.

Lucky for us, many travelers before us have come up with some great travel packing hacks, tips, and tricks we can use to make our lives easier.

So, I collected all the tips I could find and added some more of my own.

Here I present you with the ultimate guide to travel packing!

Tip: You can use the quick links below to jump to each section.

Suitcase Packing

Take the right suitcase or bag.

This might be obvious for some travelers, but depending on where you are going and the kind of travel you are doing, you might want to take a suitcase , duffel, or backpack .

I use suitcases for when I am not moving around much and I have to keep some clothes in good shape for nights out.

Shorter trips are also great for carry-on roller suitcases .

Bigger backpacks I take on multi-week trips or longer trips when I know I will be using public transport or hauling my stuff around. Nothing worse than trying to roll a suitcase around a city on a bus or metro or just while looking for your Airbnb!

Roll your clothes instead of folding to save space

It always seems obvious that you should fold your clothes, but actually rolling them can help decrease the wrinkles and save space.

Bonus Idea:

Want to save even more space or organize your case better?

Try a space-saving travel bag that can compress things insanely well.

You can either use the simple plastic compression bags or the more luxurious and easier to pack Eagle Creek packing cubes . Or any other kind of packing cubes !

Eagle Creek Packing Cubes

Pack clothes in dry cleaning bags to reduce wrinkles

Got some super-wrinkle-prone clothes, fold them while inside a dry cleaning bag and it will reduce the wrinkles while traveling.

Pack bras the right way

Bras are prone to get crushed and ruined when packed in a suitcase.

Instead of just laying them in there and praying, layer them on top of one another (cup in cup), and at the end, pack the cups with soft items to keep the shape (socks, or undies).

If you want to take it to the next level and really protect your bra investment, why not buy a dedicated bra travel bag to keep them safe and sound.

Protect breakables inside socks

Not all breakables are going to fit into your shoes, so you can at least simulate some bubble wrap by using a sock or two.

Simply slide the glass bottle or whatever it is inside your sock, maybe even wrapping it around to get 2x the layers.

If you want even more tips read our detailed post on packing breakables .

Bonus Ideas:

• If you are on a beach holiday and have some kids floaties they can be used to protect wine bottles.
• Bring some bubble wrap to use in case you buy any breakables
• Buy a wine skin (specific wine-shaped bubble wrap)

Pack breakables inside shoes

I often buy things I did not expect when on the road, and sometimes they are glass! Not great for having inside your suitcase, which we know gets thrown and crushed on a plane.

So, what I do is push smaller jars and breakables into my shoes, then wrap them in a plastic bag and if need be, wrap that in even more clothes.

Wrap your shoes in a shower cap

Image courtesy of Carlos Pacheco

This stops the soles of your shoes from dirtying anything else in your bag.

Don’t have a shower cap handy, try one of these other ideas:

• Use those plastic doctors shoe covers you get at spas or hotels (or if you happen to be a doctor and head into surgery, grab a few spares!)
• Pack your shoes in a ziploc bag
• Worst case scenario (the one I use most often) just wrap shoes in a sturdy plastic bag you got while at the department store

For even more ideas check out our detailed post on how to pack shoes .

Fill your shoes with small items

Even if you don’t have anything breakable, shoes make a great place to gain a little extra packing space.

Try shoving in some socks or other smaller clothing items (that you don’t mind putting in your shoes :>).

Keep your collars perfect on shirts

Ever tried to wear a shirt that has been flatted in a suitcase? Not pretty! The collars can get ruined if not packed correctly.

Next time you have to travel with a shirt or two, arrange it so that a rolled-up belt is pushing against the collar. It will work wonders!

Split clothes across suitcases

If you are traveling with someone else, and have two cases, it pays to split your clothes.

Sometimes a bag goes missing or arrives the next day on another flight. Don’t be left without all your clothes, give some to your travel buddy and vice versa.

If you have space, you could put them in your carry-on instead.

Stash some spare cash

You never know when your wallet is going to get stolen. And when you are far away from home, it can take time to get it all sorted out.

So, rather than get left empty-handed, why not store some cash somewhere safe in your luggage. I often hide it in the lining of a bag or inside my toiletries (inside an empty chapstick tube or similar). Somewhere no one will think of looking (just you remember where that is!).

Keep your clean clothes fresh

Who doesn’t love arriving home with a fresh bag of laundry from the dry cleaners? Well, why not do the same on your travels, where your clothes may go without washing for a while!

Just grab a few of those dryer sheets you use at home and stick them in with your clothes. You will open your case and…fresh!

Want to save even more space or organize your case better? Try a space saving travel bag that can compress things insanely well.

Take a dirty laundry bag

The biggest problem with long-term travel, especially when changing destinations, is keeping your dirty clothes away from your clean clothes.

If I am not so well prepared I just use a big and durable plastic bag (often from a nicer store – they like thick plastic).

But, there are lots of other ideas you can try:

• Use a ziploc bag to seal in the not so freshness of your dirty laundry
• Buy a specific dirty laundry bag
• Try a suitcase that has a built-in dirty laundry compartment (like this Samsonite)

Freshen your dirty laundry

If your laundry is packed away, but just starting to stink, grab a small bar of soap from the hotel and throw it in there. Another option is to use one of the dryer sheets I mentioned earlier. Not quite as strong, but worth it if you have nothing else on hand.

Take a small extra packable bag

There are so many reasons to take an extra bag with you, just make sure it is not a big one.

You might need it for:

• A day trip to a town or city
• A trip to the beach
• To bring back that extra stuff you had not planned on buying

Of course, you know where you are going and how you normally travel, so pick a bag that is suitable for that trip and possible uses.

If you want to check out a few options, here are some you might like:

• Packable duffels (gives you lots of extra space, but packs down reasonably small)
• Packable daypacks (in between, gives you options for day trips or bring back souvenirs)
• Foldable bags (really tiny, but give you options for the beach or similar activities)

This packable backpack from Osprey is a really great option too.

Pack last what you will need when you arrive

The clothes you put in your backpack or suitcase last are the ones that come out first.

So, make sure they are the ones you need when you arrive (jacket if it’s cold?) or the next day. Saves you unpacking like a madman looking for some clothes when you could have put them on top when you left :>

Clothing Packing Hacks

Wear your heaviest clothes & shoes.

This is a great way to save weight and space when traveling by air. A big jacket or even bulky jeans or sweater can be worn on the plane.

The bonus is, you can use it as an extra pillow or backrest on the plane too.

Wear your hiking boots  or any other heavy footwear. It also takes way too much space and can often be a huge weight saver!

Wear something multipurpose for the flight

For the ladies, it could be a scarf.

Great for blocking those annoying air-con breezes modern planes seem so fond of. Doubles as a pillow, or even an eye mask if you want to get some shut-eye

For the men, it could be a sweater with a hood or an extra sweater. I always use my fleece sweater to arrange my crazy sleeping positions on planes! And sometimes to just block out the reading lamp of the dude behind me!

Dress for your destination

If you are going to a foreign country with different religion or customs it pays to be aware of what is acceptable to wear.

We in the western world often trample around the world assuming a low-cut top or shorts is ok everywhere it is hot.

Many countries are offended by blatant displays of the skin or even your head. So be culturally aware and do some research before you pack and travel.

Pack a multi-purpose sarong

This one is for the ladies. Sarongs are so versatile and my girlfriend swears by them when we are traveling. You can use them in so many different ways:

• Scarf (when it gets a little chilly
• Headcover (great against the sun or visiting religious sites)
• Doubles as a towel (no need to pack that suitcase filler!)
• If you are creative – can be used as a dress

If you want to see a whole lot more, check out this great post .

Take some leggings

Another great one for the ladies. Rather than take a whole bunch of different clothes for the plane, the gym, and other general comfy purposes, just pack or even wear (on the plane) some leggings . Other great uses include:

• Cover your leg at religious sites
• Long johns/thermal underwear when it’s cold
• Wear under skirts

Mix & match clothes

Remember, you are limited to the size of your suitcase (or maybe you could be packing lighter).

So, instead of bringing every combination and outfit you own, bring items that can be mixed and matched for various days and occasions.

Take zip-off hiking pants

This is great for both men and women, and to be honest I would not go on a longer trip without them.

Zip-off hiking pants is easy to wash or just clean with a sponge. They are also fast to dry, and made of durable material.

On top of that, they double as pants and shorts, so save you an extra item of clothing.

Prepare for rain

If you have a lot of space, always pack a small carry-size umbrella for each person if possible.

If you are more space and weight conscious, a poncho might be a better bet.

Take layers instead of big clothes for the cold

When you are traveling it is always a bonus if you can re-use an item of clothing for more than one temperature or purpose.

So, instead of taking a huge jacket in case it gets cold, consider layering your clothes.

Depending on what you own and where you are going, you can take some thermal underwear to fight off the cold.

Or, add a fleece or merino wool layer or thin jacket which can double as a sweater for a day when there is just a light breeze.

Carry-On Packing Hacks

If you are flying then your carry-on is your home away from home while you are rammed into that economy seat for up to…12 hrs? So, make sure you have everything you need, but not too much, as you have to haul it around the airport.

Pack a few essentials

Ever had your suitcase go missing for a day or two (or forever, not so common but it happens). Best to prepare for the worst on a longer trip. Pack a few essentials in your carry on such as:

• Spare travel underwear
• Toothbrush and a small toothpaste
• Makeup or other beauty essentials you would die without

The list is endless, but just have a think about what you could not live without if your case did not make it!

Pro Tip: Be aware of the rules regarding liquids on planes .

Pack all your papers in an organizer

Get some peace of mind when your passport, credit cards, paperwork, and tickets are all in one place.

Pack it all in a handy organizer, like this quality one from Victorinox .

Or, at the very least, put all your tickets, car rental papers, and hotel bookings in a plastic sleeve (in reverse chronological order) so you can get to them quickly and easily when you arrive.

Keep your valuables secure in a money belt

I am a little more paranoid than most, especially when traveling outside western countries. And why not? If you get your passport or credit cards stolen, it can be a huge hassle and ruin your vacation.

So, I always travel with a money belt that is tucked inside my pants.

Sure, it’s not so comfortable, but I mainly wear it between destinations or just to carry a credit card when out shopping.

Don’t be stuck at the customs waiting for everyone else to finish with the complimentary pens you need to fill out your form.

Bring your own, and even better, fill out your form as soon as the air hostess gives it to you.

Then, you can cruise by and get into line way faster than everyone else!

Take a snack

Whether on a plane or on the road, nothing beats have a few snacks to keep you going.

You never know when your next meal is going to be, or if you are going to get something you like. So, be prepared and at least bring a few things you like to fight hunger off when it comes knocking!

Here are some quick ideas to get you started

• Granola/Muesli bars
• Nuts or nut and sultana mixes
• Crackers or other healthy snacks

Avoid just taking sweets or chocolates as they don’t really fill you up, and you will already start stacking on the kilos before you have even started the holiday food feasts!

Take an empty water bottle

No water through security, of course!

But, once you get on the other side, or on the plane, take the first opportunity to fill up your water bottle.

It’s also handy to have with you when you arrive if you head to the beach or go on a hike!

And, if you don’t own a great travel water bottle, you can’t go past the BPA-free Nalgene ! You can drop these babies from quite high without damaging them.

Consider an electronic guide book instead

I can’t count the number of Lonely Planet books I have on my shelf (I can actually, 17).

Save yourself the massive weight, space, and bother of taking it home only to never read it again.

Buy a kindle version and read it on your kindle or iPad. This is especially useful if you are traveling to many countries (like I did in South America years ago) where you often can’t get all the guide books in English anyway.

Keep your valuables safe

Not always practical, but as much as possible take your valuables on a carry-on – always!

Luggage gets lost, inspected, and sometimes stolen. There are so many opportunities to lose or have something stolen. Don’t give someone the chance.

I always take my “cannot live without” stuff with me, and have my wallet and passport on my body. You can replace everything else.

Take only liquids that are allowed

The TSA and other worldwide aviation bodies have rules about what liquids are allowed onboard a plane. Be aware of these before packing liquids (including creams and gels or similar types of foods) in your carry-on.

In general, you are allowed to:

• Take a quart-sized, see-through bag
• Take 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per liquid

Here is the perfect bag and bottle set you can take with you.

There are exceptions such as baby food, duty-free alcohol, and so forth, but be sure to check the rules before you make any purchases or take any liquids you don’t mind losing at security.

Jewelry Packing Hacks

As you probably know, jewelry is a nightmare to transport. When you arrive, everything is mixed up or lost. Here are a few handy solutions to help you arrive with a smile next time you travel.

Leave your expensive jewelry at home

Two big reasons for this:

• It is more likely to get lost or stolen while traveling
• If you wear it while in a foreign country, you might become more of a target of theft

Keep your jewelry safe

Note: The best overall option for jewelry is to buy an inexpensive jewelry organizer .

Store small jewelry easier

This is a great way to keep your jewelry sorted and separate. Great for smaller pieces like earrings and rings, but also helpful for necklaces and bracelets. Although if your necklaces still get tangled, read on, we have some more great solutions for you!

Keep earrings together

If you have just a few earrings or still find them getting mixed up in their container, try putting them together on a button. One earring through each hole.

Stop jewelry from tangling

Grab 2 layers of cling wrap that are big enough to cover your jewelry. Lay the jewelry on the first layer, then the second layer over top. Now compress the two together with the flat of your hand – which wraps the chain in place and stops it from tangling.

Thread your necklaces through a straw to stop them from tangling. Easier to repeat the process to take them home (compared to cling film).

Toiletry & Makeup Packing Hacks

Buy a hangable toiletry bag.

Hotel or Airbnb rooms don’t always have the bathrooms of our dreams, and sometimes you end up putting your toiletry bag on the floor

Rather than do that, why not buy one with a hook so you can hang it from the towel rail or door handle.

Save your having to bend over to get every single item you need!

Put plastic wrap around bottle openings

Ever opened your toiletry bag to find a wet mess? Let’s face it, liquids have a tendency to seep out of packages, even when they are sealed tight.

One simple way to fix the liquids you know are prone to leakage is to wrap the top of the bottle with plastic wrap, then re-attached the top. It might not be 100% sure, but it will certainly stop any random leaks when the top pops open in transport.

An even better way to solve this problem is to put the leakage-prone bottles in a Ziploc bag. Maybe even in combination with cling wrapping them. It depends on how keen you are.

Put a clip on the end of your razor

If your razor is sharp then you might find it damages your toiletry bag. Try clipping a big paper clip over it to protect the razor and anything it is inside.

Or, maybe just take your electric razor instead. There are some really cost-effective and smaller electric travel razors available.

Pro tip: Be aware of the rules regarding razors on planes

Do you have enough medicine?

Be sure to bring all the medicine you need while away (or get a repeat from your doctor).

Also, be sure to pack at least the basics so you don’t need to hunt for a pharmacy when you get a headache, stomach problems, or are stuck on the toilet for hours! Sometimes these things come in the middle of the night too.

Take small sized toiletries

Whether you collect them from visits to hotels or buy them at the supermarket, travel-sized toiletries are great for shorter trips.

Another great idea is to buy small refillable containers that you can fill with your own shampoo and conditioner, and even body lotion or face cream.

Save space, save weight, and have your own brands with you!

Take small amounts of lotions/concealer in the contact lens case

Contact lens cases are great because they are super water-tight and great for storing a small amount of liquids. So, if you are heading on a short trip and need to pack some lotion or makeup (concealer) you can simply squeeze enough into a contact lens case.

Pad your make up case to avoid cracked lids

Plastic lids on cases tend to break when pressed because there is space beneath them. So, an easy way to protect your make-up cases is to add some cotton padding between the makeup and the lids. Give it a try on your next trip.

Use an all-in-one makeup case instead

I know you love your favorite shade of lippy, but when it comes to travel, sacrifices have to be made. An all-in-one makeup kit can save you from taking a load of makeup and still get you through those nights out when you really need it.

Store hairpins & ties

Trying to keep track of the small things in your suitcase or toiletry bag can be frustrating. So, instead of rummaging around looking for your bobby pins or hair ties, why not use an old tictac box. The bobby pins should fit right inside a large one, and you can wrap your hair ties around it too.

Electronics Packing Hacks

Consider a tablet instead of a laptop.

Do you really need to take your laptop on vacation?

Of course, it’s up to you what you need to do while you are away. But for me, unless I plan on doing some work on the road…it’s tablet only.

Saves you lots of space and the big one – weight!

Bring a portable charger so you don’t run out of power

We all use a lot of gadgets on our travels, and it’s hard to keep them all charged and ready.

Rather than have your phone die just when you are about to take a picture, make sure you bring a portable charger and you will be good to go for the whole day!

Another option is to take a dedicated power case for your phone if that is the one device you need to keep running all day.

Pack your cables/chargers in a sunglasses or glasses case

We all have way too many cables, chargers, and connectors these days, and traveling with them is a nightmare. They all end up tangled and in different pockets.

Why not just wind them all up and store them in old glasses or sunglasses case. Easy to open and find.

Bring a power strip if you have lots of devices

Depending on how much electronics you bring with you, you might want to think about at least a travel power strip .

Especially if you are heading to a foreign country and you only have one adapter. You can connect the power strip to it, and charge four things at once!

If most of your devices use a USB, you can also find international adapters that have one normal plug and a few USB ports to charge from. Usually, that is enough for a phone, laptop, and iPad.

Wind up your earphones

If you still don’t have a pair of AirPods (check out our guide to using AirPods on a plane ), then tangled earphones are something we all have to live with, and when you are traveling it seems to only get worse.

Instead of dealing with that when you arrive, or sit down on the plane to watch a movie, why not wind them up before you leave.

There are a few things you can use to do this including:

• Plastic cards (like membership cards)
• Big paper clips (aka bulldog clips)
• Any number of stylish earphone holders including these puppies from TopHome. Nice huh!

Seal your electronics in Ziplocs if you are heading to the water

Nothing worse than worrying about dropping your phone in the water, or just getting it wet when heading to the beach.

A simple solution is to take a bunch of various size zip lock bags and place your electronics in those. You can even double bag if you want to be 100% sure (say you are heading out in a kayak or canoe!).

I hope you found some killer hacks in there. Something to make your next trip even more awesome.

If you have some extra tips you think are worth including, I would love to hear about them in the comments. Don’t be shy now :>

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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22 Travel Tips for 2022

It's 2022. Dream. Plan. Travel. Learn. Be safe. Check out my tips to make the most of your next adventure near or far!

By: Jessica Cho + Save to a List

1. Make a packing list on your phone

Even if you aren't really much of a list person, it can’t be denied that having your packing items written down can be useful. Plus, it serves as a good reference to prevent forgetting things when you’re packing up to return home. I’m typically a huge fan of using pen and paper, but I find that creating a list on my phone is most effective since there’s a lower chance the list will get lost, crumpled, ripped, or wet. And, it’s easier to refer to since most people tend to have their phones close by. I like using the notes app on my phone because I can use bullets that can be checked off…a super satisfying feature!

2. Keep your vax card and photo ID on hand

It’s always a good idea to have your Covid vaccination card and a government-issued ID with you whether you’re doing a road trip or flying somewhere. (Note: Airlines may require vax cards as well as IDs.) You never know when you might need to show proof of vaccination at a local restaurant, event, or other establishment. You wouldn’t want to have to forgo doing something you really want to do because you left one or both of these items at home!

3. Bring hand sanitizer, wipes, and at home rapid tests (if you can)... travel size products are great!

It’s always a good idea to have sanitation items with you because you never know when you might need to wipe down a seat, surface, or your hands! Having these items handy is especially useful in covid times. If you don’t want to lug around full size products, CVS or other pharmacies have mini hand sanitizers, which are easy to carry and cute at the same time! 

Note: I found it helpful to pack extra at-home covid rapid tests when I recently traveled outside of the country. Usually before flying back, airlines will require proof of a negative covid test (performed at a clinic or hotel/resort). Taking a rapid test beforehand (or if you’re having any symptoms) can provide some assurance and peace of mind before your scheduled official test.

4.  A pen can come in handy!

A pen never typically makes the cut on my packing lists. It's never something that I feel I would need or really use. BUT… sometimes, they really are good to have with you. On a recent flight out of the country, for example, all travelers were advised to fill out customs forms while we were still in the air to speed up the process upon arrival. The flight crew didn’t have enough pens for everyone, which meant we either had to share with a neighbor, wait our turn, or fill out the papers at customs. It is easier and less stressful to be prepared. Plus, you never know when a spark of random inspiration might strike! You may need something to write. Or maybe you’ll feel like journaling after a particularly profound experience… don’t underestimate the pen!

5.  Don’t forget your SPF…useful in both hot and cold locations!

This one hits close to home. My mom has pushed this on me for years. But she’s right– it’s really important! It's a common misconception that you don’t need to use SPF when it’s the winter time. But, even in the colder months, the light from the sun’s rays can still be strong (especially if reflecting off snow). Protect your skin and remember you need sunscreen even if you're not headed on an island getaway.

6. Do your research

Check regional guidelines for requirements for travel to your destination. Certain places may need travel authorization, COVID PCR testing, or the completion of an online application depending on where you are headed. Get these checked off your to-do list sooner rather than later. Sometimes approval takes time and you don’t want to be stressing out before your travels.  Download offline GPX tracks for hikes, learn the time difference, and check your flight for potential delays.

7. Brainstorm activities you really want to do and prioritize them

Sometimes there are too many things that pique your interest! Making a list of what you want to do can be great for staying organized and brainstorming. I recommend starring or highlighting the activities you feel are MUSTS. With limited time and varying circumstances that might arise, it’s good to establish your priorities so you can plan accordingly and make sure you budget enough time (and money!) for the things that are screaming your name. Plus, it won’t hurt to sign up for tours/activities ahead of time to ensure spots haven’t filled up already.

8. Check the weather!

If there are certain activities or tours that you’re dying to do, make sure you’re planning them on the best days to do them! You’ll thank yourself for doing the sunrise hike with the incredible view on the bright and sunny day with minimal cloud coverage rather than on the one day of your trip it’s expected to downpour. It’s best for morale, comfortability, and picture-taking.

9. Budget and find simple ways to save your money during and leading up to the trip

Travel can be one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences ever. But it can also be expensive. Don’t let this keep you from believing you can make it happen. There are ways to travel on a budget (road trips + camping, backpacking + staying at hostels, work-exchange/volunteer programs). Adopt smart habits that will ultimately help you cover costs. There are easy ways to do this that will add up. For example, every time you receive coins as change, put the money in a jar to go towards gas money. 

10.  Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to do it all or have the best time

While it’s great to have a positive and optimistic attitude, just remember that sometimes things don’t always go as planned. It doesn’t help that we’re constantly flooded with highlight reels and pictures on social media outlets. These are HIGHLIGHTS… not real life all the time. If your vacation isn’t shaping up to be the picture-perfect getaway that your favorite influencer or celebrity was recently on, know that a lot of what you see online can be staged and edited. Be loose and flexible. If one plan falls through, there are plenty of other things and side adventures to choose from. Choose to see the good and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself or the “fails.” Sometimes those are the best memories.

11. Say hello and smile at people

It goes a long way to be friendly with the locals, hotel staff, tour guides, servers, taxi drivers, other fellow vacationers. I always find that smiling, saying hello, and sparking conversation is a great way to learn something new and makes any trip more enjoyable and exciting. You might walk away with a new fact, restaurant recommendation, or friend! On my last trip, I had a lovely conversation with a couple during breakfast who then gave me their business card. Nice people are out there! 

12. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

While it’s definitely important to beware of stranger danger… When appropriate, it can feel so gratifying to connect with others. Speak up and ask questions. You might get the chance to hear another fellow vacationer’s favorite activity or place, leading you to your next adventure. Ask locals about special traditions or favorite authentic cuisine. Ask for directions instead of relying solely on your phone. We need more human connection.

13. Lean into discomfort and become friends with adrenaline

Discomfort is the most direct path to growth. Cherish the adrenaline rush you might get when you give yourself permission to do something more adventurous or out of your comfort zone– whether it be going skydiving or ordering the strangest sounding thing on the menu. These are the experiences that you’ll hold on to and will make you hungry for more.

14. Create a music playlist that will get you hyped for travel!

I love listening to feel-good music that will put me in the right mood to have an amazing day. Make a playlist for yourself or ask your friends to collaborate with you on one so you can all jam out in the car on a good ‘ol road trip or for when you’re waiting to board your plane. Have fun with it! For those going on any outdoor adventures, check out my playlist on Spotify here .

15. Appreciate the quiet moments

Remember: not every moment has to be filled with excitement or “Instagramable” events. Breathe. Relax. Sip your coffee. Read your book in peace. Watch the sunrise or sunset with no distractions. Summon these moments and savor them.

16. Put your phone down

No elaboration needed.

17. Bring a disposable, polaroid or film camera

There’s something so wonderful and nostalgic about a physical photo. Yes, most of us do have phones that we can snap high quality photos. But, remembering a really great trip with physical photos is sure to bring you joy on days you feel like reminiscing. For film and disposable camera pictures, it’s also quite exciting to experience the delayed gratification of seeing how your photos came out when developed. Picking up my rolls of film from my camera shop often brings back good memories from the moments I snapped the pictures and can feel like Christmas morning– a giddiness comes with waiting to see what you got or in this case, what you captured.

18. Don’t forget to contact your friends and family

Sometimes vacationing can feel like it's your time to escape it all and unwind…and sometimes it's about going on daring adventures and staying busy all day. It’s important to remember, however, that there are probably people in your life who miss you or are hoping to hear from you. Even a quick 5 minute call to tell your best friend or mom that you are safe and having fun will be very much appreciated. It’s also a smart way to stay safe. Tell trusted loved ones what you are up to and where you're headed, especially in case of an emergency.

19. Learn through your five senses

This is a good mindfulness practice when you feel like you’ve been moving too fast, are overwhelmed, or are too in your head. Stop where you are and point out one thing you see, hear, smell, taste, and can feel in this very moment. It’ll put you back in the present and allow you to soak in the beauty of what’s around you. Follow this quick grounding practice if you're freaking out about plane turbulence or struggling to relax after a big day.

20. Have a buddy

Having a friend by your side not only makes for great company, it’s also smart to have someone else to keep their eyes on the road too or to help with navigation or manage music in the car. Plus, your friend can take the wheel if you’re feeling tired and need a break. If your goal is to take a solo trip, at least tell a buddy where you’re going and what your plans are so they can check in to make sure you're safe.

21. Welcome your alter-ego

Oftentimes taking a vacation or a getaway, even for a couple days, is an opportunity to escape your everyday life. Putting yourself in a new environment and headspace can be exhilarating and a fun way to discover new parts of yourself. You might really surprise yourself with the new perspectives gained and the things you say “yes!” to. Dare to step into a new version of yourself. If you’re normally a bit shy and slightly stressed, tap into your more confident and go-with-the-flow self!

22. Practice gratitude

Travel is a privilege, not a given. Say thank-you to your AirBnb host, the hotel cleaning person, and the barista at the care where you start your day. Being grateful for your experience can help enhance your memories and experience.

Cover Photo: Julentto Photography

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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80 Packing Tips For International Travel

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Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming. You want to prepare for every possible situation but at the same time, you have to make sure that you don’t overpack. No one wants to pay for those fees! Let’s take a look at the best tips and tricks to make sure that you’re sufficiently packed and prepared to enjoy your trip.

Rather watch a video? I shared the 10 most essential packing tips below for those who don’t want to read the full article.

International Travel Documents

1. Before packing your passport , make sure that the expiry date is longer than six months. Some countries won’t let you in if the expiry date is too short. For your specific destination, read their laws for traveler’s passport requirements.

2. Be sure to pack a traveling visa if needed. Some countries require a traveling visa before entry and usually have a deadline for how long you can stay. If you’re a European Union citizen, things are easier for you if you’re traveling to Europe.

3. If traveling with children, get a child travel consent. If a child under 18 is traveling with only one parent, written permission from the other parent will be needed.

Read Next: What to Put in Carry-on and What in Checked Luggage (Guide)

4. Print a copy of your travel insurance. If you don’t have one, I highly recommend that you get one, as it’s usually really cheap and protects against medical costs, theft, flight delays, and more.

5. Pack all of your travel documents in a separate bag or a folder and always carry them with you. Never put your documents in your checked bag and always keep an eye on them. Also, it’s better to take pictures of them and email a copy to yourself in case they get lost.

6. Print out a copy of your boarding pass. It will work as a backup if your phone battery dies.

7. Don’t forget other documents: Train, bus, ferry, or plane tickets, hotel reservations, tickets for attractions and museums, a piece of paper with emergency contacts, guides and maps, and local tourist cards.

Read Next: You Bought Airline Tickets Online. Now What? (Guide)

Electronics

8. Don’t forget to bring your camera, smartphone, laptop , e-reader , headphones, and a tablet (if you plan on using them.) I usually leave the camera and tablet, as my smartphone and laptop can easily substitute both.

9. Bring dual-voltage chargers for all of your devices.  If you’re located in America and traveling to Europe, make sure that all of your chargers are dual-voltage. That’s because the USA uses 110v electricity, but Europe uses 220v. If you don’t have an adequate charger, you will ruin your device. Something like this will be written on your charger: “100v-240v.”

10. Never pack electronics in your checked luggage. Use your hand luggage or carry-on instead. Otherwise, they might get stolen or damaged, and airlines usually don’t reimburse for valuables, such as electronics.

11. Always charge your electronics before boarding. Sometimes the airline security will require you to turn on your devices. Some airlines don’t allow carrying devices that you aren’t able to turn on. If you’ve forgotten your chargers, this could potentially turn into a bad situation. Also, make sure to turn Airplane mode on before setting off.

12. Get a power adapter. In Europe alone, there are three different kinds of power adapters. You should research what kind of plugs that your destination country has and purchase accordingly. There are some universal ones as well which would be a good investment to make if you plan on traveling internationally often.

13. Pack your power bank. A power bank is a must-have, especially for international flights . Most of your gadgets won’t last twelve or more hours while you’re watching movies and tv-series, so make sure to charge them fully before boarding.

Toiletries and Medication

14. Pack liquids over 3.4 oz in your checked suitcase. In your carry-on, you can pack liquids that are in 3.4 oz bottles , and all of the bottles combined have to fit in a TSA-approved transparent bag (usually around ten small bottles.) If you plan on packing something larger, you will have to check it in.

15. If you’re staying at a hotel, leave your shampoo and shower gel at home. Most hotels have these included in your bathroom, free of charge.

16. You’re safe to pack your medication. TSA states that all medicine is allowed both in hand luggage and checked bags. I’d pack it in my hand luggage though, in case I might urgently need some of it. Also, if the medication is in liquid form and over 3.4 ounces, but in reasonable quantities, it’s allowed on the flight. Note that the medicine needs to be in its original packaging.

17. Some medication that you might forget: Something for allergies, motion sickness tablets, asthma medicine, painkillers, cream for sunburns, bandages, digital thermometer, diarrhea medicine, cough drops, insect repellant, antacids, sleep aids, and eye drops.

18. Some toiletries that you might forget: Toothbrush, mouthwash, dental floss, toothpaste , deodorant, shampoo, and shower gel (if traveling to a hotel, leave them home), sunscreen, face wash, q-tips, make-up, contacts, make-up remover wipes, shaving cream, shavers , hair-gel or hairspray, perfume , and dry shampoo.

Read Next: Will Shaving Cream & Other Aerosols Explode on a Plane?

19. If you need prescription medicine, don’t forget to bring the prescription with you. Some countries accept prescriptions from other countries, So bring it along just in case you run out.

20. Pack your medicine in a separate, ready-to-go pouch. You never know when you’re going to need it, so it’s better to be able to find anything quickly, rather than re-sorting your entire suitcase.

21. Between two similar options, always choose the lightest. For instance, I never take my big, comfy, black hoodie. Instead, I take a thinner one, which is just as warm but takes up less space. The same goes for boots vs shoes.

22. For longer trips, bring less and wash everything mid-way. Usually, larger hotels have the option to do the laundry for you, which is perfect for two to four-week trips. Even if they don’t, ask around, and they’ll usually tell you where is the nearest place to do laundry. Alternatively, underwear and socks can be easily washed in the sink with regular soap. Just make sure to do this with enough time to hang them to dry!

23. Dress in layers. If you’re traveling to colder climates, an excellent way to save space is to dress in layers. Rather than taking large jackets and hoodies, take several thin shirts.

24. Wear the bulkiest clothes and shoes on your flight. By doing this, you will save some space in your suitcase. You can take something off once you board the flight. (I like to take my shoes off when I fly. (Sorry, if you ever sit next to me!)

25. Choose a color scheme. Basically, you should be able to combine any two pieces of clothing to make an outfit. Avoid packing outfits for every day that don’t go together separately. This way, you can wear your jeans for several days while changing your t-shirts and underwear every day.

26. For your flight days, you can pack a single outfit. For instance, if you’ve gone for seven days, pack for six days, because you’ll be wearing the same thing on your first and last day. Do you care that much how you’re looking on the plane? I always go with comfort over fashion.

27. Research the fashion culture in your destination. For instance, if you’re a woman, you don’t want to wear something that reveals lots of skin in Arabic countries. In Europe, people tend to dress a bit more formally than in America. So, pack accordingly.

28. Underwear and socks. I recommend packing a pair for every day. For longer trips, bring only half and wash everything mid-way through your trip.

29. Jeans, pants, and shorts. Personally, for a two-week trip, I would bring a pair of jeans and two pairs of shorts. I pick one that’s more casual and another that’s for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback writing, etc.

30. T-shirts. If you roll them, they don’t take up that much space, so I take one for every day. (Although, you could take one for every two days.)

31. Hoodies, shirts, jackets. If I’m traveling to warmer climates, I usually skip the bulkier jackets. A single hoodie and a thin shirt are enough. For colder places, I’d pack one for every three days. Don’t bring more than one jacket, as they take up a lot of space.

32. Dresses. I feel that dresses are perfect for traveling, as they take up so little space. Just don’t go overboard and remember to pack a pair of jeans as well for activities and hikes.

33. Suits and formal clothing. If traveling for business, suits and formal clothing are a must. Don’t forget to bring a pair of high heels or formal shoes, ties, a suit or a dress, and other accessories.

34. Sporting gear. I like to continue my exercise routines while traveling so I bring a pair of running sneakers, shorts, and a t-shirt. If you’re active, don’t forget to pack your sports gear if you want to go to the gym or go for a run.

35. Shoes and boots. I usually bring no more than three pairs of shoes : A pair of running sneakers, casual shoes, and flip-flops or boots (depending on the weather.) Shoes take a lot of space, so think twice about bringing extra pairs.

36. Accessories that you could forget packing: Hats, scarves, swimsuits, towels, gloves, belts, pajamas, and jewelry. All are totally dependant on where you go, so it’s up to you to decide if you need them.

Additional tip #1: Ever had bed bugs in your luggage while staying in a cheap hotel? Check out our guide on getting bed bugs out of luggage , and how to prevent them in the future.

Miscellaneous Items That You Could Forget to Pack

37. Take food and snacks. If you’re flying a short flight with no lunches, you should get some snacks to save some money. You’re allowed to pack almost any food, as long as you follow the 3.4 oz rule. The rule states that you cannot pack liquids in bottles larger than 3.4 oz in your hand luggage. This includes sauces, creams, and other liquids. However, checked luggage is totally fine. Also, you should be careful with packing organic food and dairies, as some countries won’t allow you to enter with specific foods.

Read Next: Can You Bring Chef’s Gas Torches on a Plane?

38. Always take an empty bag for your dirty clothes. If you start mixing your dirty clothes with your clean ones, pretty soon your clean clothes will start smelling. I’d recommend packing a special laundry bag or a plastic bag. Tote bags aren’t that good because they let air through the fabric because plastic doesn’t.

39. Pack a few zip-locks, plastics bags, and a tote bag. They don’t take up much space, and you never know when you are going to need them. I usually take a piece of bubble wrap as well if I’ll be bringing home some bottles of wine.

40. If you have a luggage scale, take it. If you don’t,  get one . It’s handy for your return flights, especially if you’re visiting several countries. With it, you will be easily able to weigh your suitcase and tell if you can buy any more snacks and souvenirs for your return flight. It costs just a few dollars and takes up very little space.

41. Other items that you could forget: umbrella , sunglasses, regular glasses and a case, tweezers or a pocket knife, hand sanitizer, paper/pen, a fork, and a spoon, a cup, and a plate, cash, keys.

Preparing for a Long International Flight

42. Download e-books, movies, and tv series before your trip. The flight will be long, usually twelve hours or more. To keep yourself entertained, make sure to download everything in advance. Time will go by faster! (I tend to write/sleep the entire flight.)

43. Pack everything for a comfortable trip. Do you think that sitting in a seat for ten hours will be comfortable? Well, think again, because you’re likely to feel stiff and exhausted after your flight. If you have the room, pack a pair of trainers, a hoodie, soft socks, a sleeping pillow, and a face mask for comfortable sleeping.

44. Pack things that will help you with having more privacy on your flight. You never know who you will be sitting next to. You could be sitting next to someone who wants to talk throughout the flight or is watching movies on a bright screen. Prepare in advance by packing noise-canceling headphones or earplugs and a face mask.

45. To freshen up, pack some wet wipes and hand cream in your carry-on. Although this is optional, cleaning your hands and face with wet wipes will make you feel much fresher. The dry air and pressure changes can make you feel like you haven’t showered for several days.

46. Wear glasses instead of contacts. I’m not sure why, but flying with contacts for longer than one or two hours is nearly impossible. It probably has something to do with the pressure changes and dryness. So pack your contacts in your baggage and wear your glasses instead.

Before You Start Packing Your Suitcase

47. Before you start packing, make a list of all your items. This will help you to avoid forgetting something. Some apps help you with creating a packing list. Check out this handy printout PDF!

48. Lay all of your items on the floor or the bed. Reading a list can be one thing, but looking at all of your items in front of you will help you to see how tightly you should be packing. Re-check if you have everything that’s on the list.

49. Determine the weight and size restrictions for your flight. For international flights, you will usually find that the carry-on limits are tighter, so be sure to read up on the airlines’ website and measure your luggage . Here are the most common airline restrictions .

50. Choose the appropriate luggage . If I fly with a checked suitcase, I usually take a backpack and a large suitcase. Make sure that everything is within the size limits. Also, I would recommend taking luggage with spinner wheels if you have to walk long distances.

Editor’s tip : If you’re looking for a new carry-on, we’ve found that the Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the best choice. We’ve compared the most popular luggage brands , and we’re most impressed by Travelpro. It got 90 out of 100 points on our rating scale.

51. If you have an old suitcase, give it a good clean. I recently tried restoring my old suitcase and was pretty successful with it. With proper techniques, you can make your old bag look brand new .

Tips on Packing Your Suitcase

52. Pack these items in your carry-on: Documents, electronics, clothes for one or two days (in case your checked luggage gets lost), chargers, toiletries, and medicine.

53. Pack these items in your checked suitcase: Extra pairs of shoes, all of your other clothing, liquids over 3.4 oz, knives, and other things that are not allowed on the flight.

54. Start by packing your documents. Put all of your documents and printouts in a folder and stash them in an easily accessible place. A good choice would be your carry-on, backpack, or duffel bag, depending on your choice of hand luggage.

55. Utilize packing cubes. They’re a great way to organize your items and save a little bit of space. I usually divide the cubes by their contents. For instance, one is for electronics, another is for chargers and smaller items, and one is for bulkier clothing, etc.

56. Before you start packing, roll, and fold your clothes. For easier packing, I always roll my t-shirts, pants, jeans, shorts, and underwear. This saves a lot of space and usually, the items don’t get that wrinkled (if you do it correctly.) Other than rolling, I fold my shirts and other things that need to be wrinkle-free. If you’re using packing cubes, fold them in the exact size of the largest cube, which will help when you’re packing it.

57. Fill your shoes with socks and underwear. Not only does this save space, but your shoes won’t get squashed after unpacking.

58. If you’re using packing cubes, pack them full. This results in fewer wrinkles on your clothes. Also, pack in a way that your items are easy to pull out. (Rolled pieces help a lot!)

59. If packing without cubes, start packing with shoes and larger items. Ideally, you want to place your shoes and heavier items down at the bottom of the case, because this will result in a better-balanced suitcase. (It’s less likely to tip over!)

60. Fill the gaps with smaller items. When you’ve finished with the larger things like shoes, jackets, jeans, hoodies, and the toiletry bag, fill the gaps with socks, underwear, and t-shirts.

61. If using a carry-on and suitcase, never pack valuables in your checked suitcase. Items packed in your checked luggage could get lost or stolen, and most of the time, airlines don’t cover electronics, valuables, fragile items, and jewelry. If you have no other choice, purchase separate travel insurance for the contents of your checked bag.

62. Pack fragile items and liquids carefully. Here’s a full guide on packing fragile items in luggage .

63. If you’re bringing a knife, follow the TSA rules. You can’t put knives in your carry-on . Instead, you should pack it in your suitcase.

64. Leave some room for the return items. Are your friends, colleagues, and family are already wondering what snacks or souvenirs they will be getting from you when you get back from your trip? Make sure that you leave some space for your return items and souvenirs. I’d say that an extra two to five pounds is enough.

65. Make sure to use the straps in your suitcase to tighten your contents. I’m amazed at how many people aren’t doing this, especially if they’re not using packing cubes. If you tighten them, your clothes won’t be all over the suitcase, and you will have fewer wrinkles because there will be less movement.

66. Weigh your bag and make sure that it’s close to the weight limit. Most of the time, the airline staff will let you pass with a few extra pounds. However, sometimes they will not, so to be safe, you should always follow the weight limit.

After You’ve Packed Your Suitcase

67. Make your suitcase easily visible. Adding some stickers, luggage straps, or other colorful elements will do two things to help you while traveling. First, your suitcase will be easily identifiable on the conveyor belt. Second, if your luggage gets lost , you can better describe your suitcase to the airline staff, which will increase the chances of them finding it. If you bring two or more suitcases, it’s also a good idea to hook them together .

68. Re-check if your documents and valuables are packed in your carry-on. Checked suitcases can easily be stolen or lost. You don’t want to lose your documents while abroad.

69. Consider purchasing insurance for your checked suitcase. Airlines reimburse only small amounts for lost suitcases, as they value everything as used. (Even if it’s brand new.)

70. If you’re above the weight limit, start by removing clothes. 80% of your suitcase is easily taken up by clothes. Most of the time, you’re taking too much. Consider packing for a week and washing your clothes after seven days. Do you really need to bring those boots to Finland in the summer? Do you need that extra jacket just in case it gets cold in Italy? No, you don’t.

71. Add luggage tags to your suitcase. Using luggage tags dramatically increases the chances of your suitcase being found in case it gets lost. Write your e-mail address, the initial of your first name, and last name. (You don’t want everyone to see all of your information.)

72. When locking anything, use only TSA-approved locks . Some beginners might not know this, but everything that you lock in your luggage has to be locked with TSA-approved locks. Whether you’re locking the suitcase itself or a box of valuables inside, the TSA locks will allow the TSA agents easy access inside. Otherwise, they’re authorized to break the lock, and you could end up with a broken suitcase.

73. If you’re worried about your checked suitcase being damaged, use a luggage cover . This protective cover helps with keeping your suitcase look brand-new. In some third-world countries, luggage handlers can be really tough on your suitcase, so protecting it could be a smart move. A cheaper DIY temporary solution would be to cover it with a plastic film.

Money and credit cards

74. Don’t exchange money in money exchanges. You’ll probably need to pack some cash with you. Most of the time, the rate is the best when withdrawing through a well-known ATM at your destination. Airports and money exchanges will always have slightly worse rates. When you arrive, look for a well-known ATM (private ATMs often have higher fees) and withdraw from your ATM card.

75. Use your credit cards wisely to avoid extra fees. It’s not a packing tip, but I’ll include it anyway, as it’s essential. For withdrawing money, don’t use your credit card. Instead, you should use an ATM card. Only use your credit card for paying in another currency with your card, as the exchange rate fee is always smaller for credit cards. Also, when paying with your credit card, you will often be asked if you want to be charged in the local currency or US dollars. Always choose the local currency, as the rate will be better. So to sum up: Pay with your credit card in the local currency, and withdraw with your ATM card from well-known ATMs.

76. Notify your bank and credit cards that you will be traveling.  Your bank or credit cards can freeze your accounts if they notice strange transactions and that’s the last thing you need while you’re on a trip. Notifying them ahead of time will help you to avoid this issue because they will add a record to your account for the fraud detection system.

77. Educate yourself on local currency.  It can be incredibly difficult to tell the difference between different coins and bills if you’re not from that country. Learning about the currency where you’re headed can save you a lot of headaches and from possibly being swindled, too!

78. Consider getting a wallet or purse that you use specifically for travel. There are a lot of options out there for the safer storage of your personal items. You might want an RFID wallet  like this one on Amazon that insulates you from electronic pickpocketing. You can also invest in a waterproof, crossbody bag that will keep your items safe from the elements as well as make it harder for thieves to try to grab from you.

79. Consider using prepaid travel cards.  If you don’t want to bring along your debit or credit cards, consider using a prepaid travel card instead. You can load a specific amount of money onto the card before your trip, allowing you to lock in your exchange rate.

80. Hide your money.  Hide your money on your body by using a scarf with a hidden compartment, a leg money belt, a security belt with a hidden wallet, etc. If you’re planning on leaving money in your hotel room, you can easily hide your cash if you make a plan. You can tape it underneath drawers, stash it in food packets inside of your mini-fridge, or even inside of the couch cushions.

Final Words

Packing for your trip will be easier and less stressful if you prepare in advance. Using tips like those listed above will ensure that you’re ready. The most important thing to take away from reading this is how crucial it is to make sure your travel documents are safe. Keeping them in a folder in a place that you will remember and is easily accessible is of the utmost importance.

Something else that’s important to remember is that you need to pack only as many clothes as you will realistically need. Going over the weight limits will end in hefty fines. You might also want some space for souvenirs! Wearing layers onto your flight can also give you more space in your suitcase but make sure you will be comfortable as international flights are long and exhausting.

The best thing you can do is use an app or create an itinerary to keep track of your items. You don’t want to forget items like chargers, power blocks, medications, or other items necessary for your trip. Keep yourself organized and you will have a worry-free experience!

Read Next: 30 Things to Do Before Traveling Abroad

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One response to “80 Packing Tips For International Travel”

Oscar, your reflections on inner growth resonated with me. I too find solace in nature, especially during morning walks when the dew is still fresh. How do you cope when you can’t connect with nature? Isn’t it interesting how our surroundings influence us, and often mirror our internal state? I find urban environments, with their chaotic beauty, offer a completely different yet enriching perspective on personal development. Perhaps, we could explore this in a future discussion. My own experience in New York City was a turning point for me, the hustle and bustle pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a space of self-discovery. Keep the discussion flowing, Oscar, your insights are a breath of fresh air. 🌿🌆

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Stressed about holiday travel? Pack like a pro with these tips to make things easier

As we head into the busy holiday season, a lot of people may be getting ready to travel for the first time in a while and could be feeling a little rusty.

We wanted to help your winter getaways feel as stress-free as possible, so USA TODAY reached out to some professional travelers for their top tips on how to pack. Advice ranges from the best ways to get organized to planning around traveling with little kids. 

Here's a roundup of tips from influencers and journalists who travel as a day job, so you can pack like a pro:

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Learn more: Best travel insurance

Get organized

Especially if you don't travel often, it can be hard to even figure out what you need to pack.

"Make a short list of any things you wouldn't be able to replace easily – passport, medication, prescription glasses, camera – and double-check these items," Alex Outhwaite , a television travel presenter, suggested. "That helps stop me stressing before I leave as I know that anything else other than those items can be easily bought when I'm away if necessary."

Once you know what you need, you can organize even further by keeping like with like in your luggage.

"The classic Army Roll technique is perfect for keeping clothing as small and compact as possible. Roll up your undies and socks for the day into your bottoms for ease," said Annette Richmond, who founded the Fat Girls Traveling Facebook group . "I then suggest placing items in packing cubes to save even more space. I would bring at least two packing cubes so that as you accumulate dirty clothes one of the packing cubes can be your laundry hamper."

USA TODAY travel reporter Kathleen Wong uses a reusable shopping bag to separate out her dirty laundry while on the road, and our other colleague Nathan Diller said he likes to keep his liquid toiletries in plastic bags to prevent any en route spillage. 

"It's much easier to travel when carrying less," said Jae'lynn Chaney, CEO of Jae Bae Productions . She and Richmond added that a portable luggage scale can help keep you honest and avoid overweight bag fees. Experts also recently told USA TODAY that it's usually a good idea to stick to carry-on luggage whenever possible if you're flying.

Caroline Hershey, who runs the Jet with a Set blog, said that families with young kids can follow this same advice, even if it seems more daunting. 

“Pack light. You can usually find a place to do laundry," she said.

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Leave some space

You don't want your suitcase to be totally full on departure because you could need more room on the way back, whether it's for souvenirs or less neatly-folded dirty laundry.

"Don't pack to the brim. Leave space for new things you buy there," said USA TODAY travel editor Josh Rivera . 

Chaney agreed. "Leave a little bit of room in your luggage for things you might purchase during your trip; this way, you can avoid paying extra luggage fees on the trip home," she said.

Family travel: What you need to know about letting your kid fly as an unaccompanied minor

Keep the important stuff with you

From medicine and documents to underwear and chargers, you don't want to wind up losing something you need.

"Pack anything you think you may need urgently in your carry-on," said USA TODAY travel reporter Eve Chen . "Pack a few basic first aid things like Band-Aids, ibuprofen and Pepto Bismol."

Chaney added that it's a good idea to bring some clothes in your carry-on even if you're checking a bag.

"Always pack at least one full outfit and an extra pair of shoes in your carry-on bag when flying," she said. "This way, you have clothes to change into if your luggage gets lost."

Ask the Captain: What happens to flights when there’s a weather disruption?

Track your luggage

As issues with lost luggage escalated over the summer, luggage tracking became increasingly popular.

"Air Tags or Luggage Tracker app will give you peace of mind if your luggage gets lost or delayed," Richmond said.

Traveling this holiday season?: Here are the best packing tips from a professional stylist

Don't be afraid to shop while you're there

Whether you're traveling to see family or just going on vacation, chances are you'll be able to get necessities wherever you go as well as souvenirs.

"Any place you go, they have kids there too and you can buy anything on the ground in terms of food or diapers," Hershey said. "Avoid packing things you can get at your destination."

Though of course, that advice applies to adults too.

"Buy whatever you need there," Rivera advised. 

'The space was not built for me': Plus-size flyers say airlines have room to improve

Know your rights

Another way to reduce stress is to be a well-informed traveler. Whether that means knowing how much your airline will let you carry on, or where the gas stations are along your drive, the more you know, the more prepared you'll feel.

Chaney said this advice can be especially important for disabled travelers. 

"As a plus-size woman who lives with disabilities and utilizes both a wheelchair and portable oxygen concentrator when traveling, I always recommend that travelers who are traveling with medical equipment know the policies surrounding their specific device," she said. "For example, my wheelchair can be checked for free and doesn't count as checked luggage when flying since it's a medical device. If you're traveling with any type of medical device or equipment, know that it can usually be checked with the airline you're flying with for free."

Airlines could do better: Disabled travelers say airlines need to improve wheelchair handling

Packing Tips and Recommendations

Posted on Published: 01/21/2022

Packing is such a huge part of planning your vacation. Depending on where you are going, you may not always have access to purchase or easily obtain the items that you need for your trip. It can be stressful to ensure you have everything you need without bringing along too many suitcases and carry-on bags.

Here on Family Travel Magazine®, we have lots of packing tips and resources. These include product ideas, packing lists, and essentials to buy. Click these links to go to the appropriate section, and then click on that link for direct access to our full post.

The Best Travel Bags For Your Next Family Vacation

How to use packing cubes, a guide to underseat luggage for your next flight, the best sling bag for travel, how to pack a suitcase efficiently, toiletries packing list and tips.

What To Pack in a Cruise Carry-On Bag

Caribbean Vacation Packing List For A Family

What to pack for a water park: what you may need, convention packing list with must-have items to pack, what to pack for an all-inclusive resort in mexico or the caribbean, beach packing list for the ultimate beach vacation, family guide to carry on bags, what to bring on a cruise, europe packing list for a family vacation, packing list for a 4 day cruise, weekend getaway packing list.

Must-Haves for Your Theme Park Packing List

Tips for Packing Your TSA Approved Quart Size Bag

Packing Tips That Help If You Have Delayed or Lost Luggage

Carry On Vs. Personal Item: Essential Tips

AirTags for Luggage

Whether you travel occasionally or are a frequent vacationer, you’ll want to have the right travel gear. The best travel bags are lightweight but sturdy, have plenty of room for your belongings, and are easy to carry.

While it can be tempting to buy cheap pieces available at various discount stores, you won’t want to be stuck at your destination with a broken bag. So definitely do your research in advance and buy a highly-rated bag.

Space-saving is obviously important when you pack your suitcases. However, you’ll also want to make sure that your clothes arrive unwrinkled, and are ready to wear. Using packing cubes is a great way to both save space and keep your clothes nice and unwrinkled.

Packing cubes can also be a great way to keep clothes organized. Whether you are packing for multiple destinations, or for multiple family members, you can use packing cubes to keep items separate.

If you are visiting several different hotels, you can keep your outfits separate. Then, you’ll only need to remove the ones you need from your suitcase.

Planning on flying for your next vacation? As airlines charge additional fees for bags (even overhead carry-ons now, in some cases), you’ll want to make sure that you effectively utilize the space underneath the seat in front of you. The best way to do that is to bring along the best underseat luggage and stock it with essentials.

Packing your carry-on bag – especially underseat luggage – is important. These are the items you’ll have with you at all times, so it’s important to include your valuables in this bag. In addition, it’s a good idea to pack any items you’ll want to have with you on the flight – like headphones, a book, and portable chargers .

Sling bags are one of the most underrated travel accessories. If you’ve seen them, you may think they are too small or aren’t convenient. However, they can be a great way to keep your hands free while carrying some essential items that you need for the day.

Sling bags are versatile and can be worn both in the front and in the back. They are typically smaller than a traditional backpack, so you’ll have less room to pack things in. However, that also makes it more lightweight and easy to carry. They are perfect day bags for a full-filled day of sightseeing.

When I was younger, we were able to just toss our belongings in our many suitcases, lug them to the airport, and then store them in our hotel room. Now, with airlines charging steeper baggage fees (including heavy bag charges), it’s important to be efficient when packing your family’s suitcases for vacation.

This post offers some of our favorite travel packing hacks for packing your suitcase. These hacks include things like rolling your clothes, using packing lists, and how to pack liquids. Just remember to do the same things on your return trip so that you can fit everything back into your suitcase.

When the TSA started restricting liquids that are carried on a flight, it made it more challenging to pack those essential toiletries like toothpaste, contact solution, and skincare products. Suddenly, it was important to look at the sizes of these items and to make sure they fit in a quart-sized bag.

Frequent travelers may find it more convenient to have a separate set of travel-sized toiletries pre-packed and ready to go for any vacation. If you do that, it’s still essential to look through your supplies before you go to make sure nothing is empty or expired.

If you don’t have TSA Precheck , you’ll want to make sure that this one-quart bag is located at the very top of your carry-on bag. That way, you can easily pull it out once you arrive at the security checkpoint. It will need to go through security separately.

What To Pack in A Cruise Carry On Bag

The first day of a cruise can be a little stressful. Boarding the ship, going through security, completing the security drill, and making sure your bags make it on the ship are just a few things you need to get through before your vacation begins.

If you are checking bags, you’ll definitely need to make sure you have the right items with you in your carry-on bag. These may be different items than what is in your flight carry-on bag, so you may need to make a few adjustments before you embark on the ship.

Be sure to bring valuables, as well as a change of clothes and anything else you’ll need for that first day.

I love visiting the Caribbean, but I always spend some extra time packing before I go. Items can be more difficult to find, and island prices are typically more expensive than what you’ll pay in the US.

This is where a good packing list is important. Prepare in advance so that you make sure everything you need is listed, and then you can include it in your suitcase.

Remember that you’ll probably be spending a lot of time in the water and in the sun. So, pack plenty of sunscreens. Extra bathing suits are also a good idea so that you don’t have to put on a wet suit.

Visiting a water park for a day trip or during your vacation? This post contains a list of what you’ll want to consider packing so you can make the most of your trip.

Before you go, you’ll want to check on a few things about the water park you are visiting. You’ll want to know what items are prohibited, as well as which items (like lifejackets, for instance), are included.

It’s also important to know if the water park offers locker rentals. If everyone in your traveling party goes on the slides and in the pools, a locker is the best way to keep your valuables safe. Otherwise, you’d have to leave things on a chair and risk losing them.

While we typically focus on family travel here, we do know that parents often have solo business trips. Packing for those trips can be completely different. Although you’ll only have to worry about packing for yourself, you probably won’t have extra time to go shopping if you forget something.

Before packing, look over your conference or convention agenda. There may be some specialized events and activities requiring specific attire. It’s good to know about that a few days early in case you need to purchase new clothes.

An all-inclusive resort vacation can be one of the most convenient vacation types. You won’t need to worry about leaving the resort for meals and activities, so once you arrive, you can settle in.

Like any Caribbean and international vacation, it can be difficult and expensive to buy items that you’ve forgotten at home. So, it’s worth spending the time upfront to make sure you have everything you need.

You’ll want to review the resort’s website to see if there are any particular dress codes for the included restaurants. That way, you’ll have whatever items you need.

I could spend every day at the beach. It’s such a relaxing, quiet place to enjoy the outdoors. But, I burn easily, so it’s really important that I have the right products to keep me safe and comfortable for my beach days.

If you are vacationing at the beach, it’s a good idea to see what amenities are offered at your vacation home or beach hotel. Many offer beach chairs and umbrellas, and if they do, you won’t have to worry about packing them yourself. Rentals may also be available if your hotel doesn’t offer them on property.

If you are flying on your family vacation, you’ll need to carefully pack your family’s carry-on bags. I’ve had checked bags get lost a few times, so it’s a good idea to pack the essentials in a bag that you keep with you.

Carry on bags should include valuables and essentials, like medication, money, and documents. But, you’ll also want to have any items you’ll need on your flight, including snacks, games, books, and headphones.

This guide also helps with choosing the best carry-on bags for your trip.

I absolutely love the convenience of cruising. On that stressful first day, you can unpack your belongings in your stateroom, and then leave them where they are. Even though you’ll be visiting multiple destinations, you’ll sleep in the same room every night.

While cruises do offer shops, they are only open when the ship is at sea. Those inconvenient hours make it difficult to purchase anything you need when you need it. But, staterooms are also small, with limited space. So overpacking isn’t ideal either.

This post contains ideas of what to bring on a cruise.

Touring Europe often involves a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes and lightweight bags are essential. You won’t want to worry about washing clothes while you are there, so you’ll need to have enough outfits for your entire trip. In addition, you’ll need to worry about the voltage and type of plug, since they are different from what we have here in the US.

Read our Europe packing list post for information about what to bring.

If you are new to cruising, a 4-day cruise can be the perfect length. It’s enough time to feel like you are actually on vacation, but not too much time. Four days is the perfect amount of time to evaluate how you actually enjoy cruising.

Planning a four-day cruise? Here is our packing list with the essentials you need to pack.

Are you planning a quick getaway? While a weekend getaway can be an easy trip to take, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed everything you need. You don’t want to have to waste any time going from store to store to find the things you need. This post can help you organize and pack what you need.

Must Haves for Your Theme Park Packing List

Packing for a theme park day is a delicate balance. You won’t want to pack too much but you also want to make sure you have everything you need. We have recommendations of things to put in your day bag, as well as downloadable packing lists for longer theme park vacations that involve an overnight stay.

Tips for Packing Your TSA Approved Carry On Quart Size Bag

Whether you are checking a bag and want essentials in case something is lost, or are hoping to avoid checked luggage altogether, you may need to include liquid toiletries in your carry-on luggage. But there are important TSA rules you’ll need to follow – starting with a carry-on quart-size bag.

If you follow travel news, you’ve probably heard tales of lost luggage, especially in European airports this summer. It’s, unfortunately, become common enough that it’s important to strategically pack to make sure you are prepared if your bags are lost or delayed. Here are some tips to help you be prepared in advance.

Carry On vs. Personal Item: Essential Flight Packing Tips

Packing for vacation is always a challenge, especially when you are flying for your family vacation. There are only so many things you can put in your bags, and with baggage fees, you’ll need to be an efficient packer. Once airlines started charging for checked bags, many travelers started using carry-on bags more. However, now those many also come with an added fee.

Wondered how things work with a carry-on vs. personal item? The requirements for these start with the FAA and TSA, although your airline (and even the specific aircraft you are on) can dictate the size requirement. Here are some recommendations for traveling with a carry-on vs. a personal item.

While AirTags can’t prevent your bags from being delayed or lost, they absolutely can help you realize they have been left behind, and can help you track their location along the way. I’m grateful we did purchase them because our bags were delayed in Portugal. Then they were delayed again on our flight from Boston to Orlando on Christmas day – when we were boarding a cruise the next day. We’ve got a lot of use out of them.

If you are planning a big trip where you’ll be checking bags (or even when you may have to check a carry-on), I definitely recommend considering AirTags if they are an option for you.

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2022 Holiday Travel Tips & Packing Hacks

Traveling for the 2022 holiday season? You’re not alone. Last year, over 120 million Americans traveled for the holidays. And 2022 is expected to be even bigger. You’ve probably already heard some of the most common packing tips (roll your clothes instead of folding, for example), but you may not have seen this. It’s a unique technique that helps your clothes arrive wrinkle-free. The full video is about 10 minutes long, but you only have to watch the first 35 seconds!

Pro tip: Replay that section a few times until you’ve mastered the technique. Speaking of the holidays, have you seen Grommet’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide? It features 250+ gifts including an entire section of great gifts under $20.

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This is the most helpful video I have ever seen. The trick with aluminum foil for pain works so well, better than anything I have ever tried before. And I mean anything, and I have tried a lot of things. Thank you. My life is much better because of this video.

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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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What are you looking for?

Ultimate 2024 travel packing list: what to pack for any trip.

After more than 5 years spent full time travelling around the world, we’ve built up a pretty solid idea of what to pack for travel .

Along the way we’ve also made PLENTY of mistakes! Like ...

• Forgetting to buy travel insurance (I know right!)
• Not having the right photography gear
• Not taking enough warm weather clothing

Simple mistakes when packing for a trip can make a huge difference to your eventual time away.

That’s why I wanted to put together this epic travel packing list guide to help you make sure you've got the perfect travel gear, regardless of which trip you plan on taking.

I’ve included all of the top travel tips & tricks we’ve picked up over the years to help you not make the sort of simple mistakes we have.

Along the way, I’ve also included useful links to other sites where you can pick up most of the items mentioned in this list.

Feel free to skip to whichever section suits you best, or head right to the end to get our quick travel packing checklist.

Let’s get started ...

Before traveling anywhere, make sure you have your travel insurance in place. We recommend SafetyWing. ‍

Here's a few reasons ...

• They Cover for Covid-19
• You can pause and restart policies each month
• They are more affordable than many providers

For more info, check out my in-depth SafetyWing review .

Ultimate Last Minute Travel Checklist

Men's packing list, women's packing list, travel essentials, tech/gadgets, health & safety, miscellaneous, other items to consider, a few things you need to consider before packing.

Before you start packing for any sort of trip abroad, here’s a few really important things you should quickly check about your chosen destinations.

1. Religion

This has a huge effect on what you are able to wear when out and about in different locations. 

For example, when packing for Sri Lanka , you’ll need to include clothes that allow you to cover up both your legs and shoulders as they are a highly Buddhist country.

In many strict religious countries, for example Morocco , you are often able to wear more revealing clothes inside of your hotel or resort.

It’s worth doing a Google search to see what local cultural norms are before you start packing your bags for travel.

2. Geography

If you plan on visiting multiple locations around a country, then be sure to check how the geography varies from place to place.

Back in 2016, our first backpacking adventure was to South America . 

We naturally assumed the whole continent would be roasting hot, which it was for the most part.

However, as soon as we got to Patagonia in southern Argentina, we found ourselves standing outside the airport, shivering in shorts and T-shirt, huddled underneath a blanket!

We then had to spend a lot of money on overpriced warm weather clothes which could have just packed before we left!

The same goes for much smaller countries, for example when packing for Bali .

All around the coast of this small island, the temperature sits at around 30-40 Degrees for most of the year.

But as soon as you head into the north of the country, nearer the rice paddies, the temperature drops massively and you can find yourself shivering!

Finally, be sure to think about which seasons your planned trip will cover.

Not all countries are warm all throughout the year, and temperatures can vary massively depending on which time of year you will be there.

Even in countries that you associate with being hot all throughout the year, your summer packing list would look a lot different to your winter packing list

Countries in Asia can be particularly volatile at certain times of the year.

We were caught out by more than one sudden monsoon in Vietnam when, one minute the sun is blazing hot and the next minute it’s raining cats and dogs.

Choosing the right bag for travel

The first big packing decision you need to make is deciding which bag to take with you.

As a rule of thumb, we always each take two bags with us:

• A larger backpack or luggage case that holds the majority of our gear and gets packed way in the hold when flying
• A smaller daypack that’s used when out and about exploring or as a camera backpack

Choosing a larger backpack/piece of luggage

If ever we are backpacking, we always each take our larger travel backpacks, which are between 50 and 70 litres big.

This is tonnes of room to hold all of your travel gear no matter how long you plan on travelling for.

Based on our experience backpacking dozens of countries, I can confidently say that your go-to brand should be Osprey .

The majority of all travellers we see also have Osprey bags and there’s so many reasons why, including:

• They are excellent quality
• They have a massive range for both men and women
• They are reasonably priced
• They are strong and last a long time
• They are comfortable for carrying long distances

Here are our 2 top recommendations:

Bradley's choice

OSPREY PACKS FARPOINT 70 (FOR MEN)

Cazzy's choice.

OSPREY PACKS RENN 65 (FOR WOMEN)

Choosing the perfect day bag.

A day bag is a great piece of kit, and one that gets a lot of use!

Nowadays, there are hundreds of different day bags out there to choose from, each one tailored to unique needs.

For example, we always have one more rugged day bag that’s perfect for hiking and wearing for long hours when out and about.

Our other one is specifically designed as an all-in-one day bag and even main travel rucksack if needed. It has the room to expand and contract depending on your needs, as well as an optional in-built wardrobe!

Read more about the Tropicfeel Shell backpack to see why we love it so much!

It’s perfect as it can fit both our laptops and a few other expensive pieces of kit.

Another great option is the Solgaard Lifepack. A 2-in-1 backpack designed for digital nomads who need to carry a mixture of work and lifestyle gear when travelling.

For longer trips, the Endeavor does a similar thing but offers even more space for clothes and even includes and expanding wardrobe! Read more in my full review of Solgaard .

Or, if you want something small and compact, that can be stuffed away when not in use, check out Loctote's bags .

Here’s the 2 day bags we recommend using based of our own experience:

OSPREY PACKS STRATOS 24

Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

What about roll-on luggage.

Based on personal experience, I can confidently say that Horizn Studios offers the perfect array of roll-on luggage for all travels.

They are definitely more of a luxury carry-on brand . But though they cost a little more, they are also built to last so much longer than other brands out there.

It's a classic case of you get what you pay for, but if you travel a lot (like we do) then investing in good quality carry-on will pay off for years to come.

I love their M5 Essential , which comes in some really cool colours, and you can even ha e customised with your own monogram.

You can learn more about them in my in-depth review of Horizn Studios luggage .

Final thoughts on picking bags for travel

On recent trips of up to 3 months, we’ve actually started taking just one large backpack between us , which has proven to be plenty of space for all of our joint backpacking gear.

And this is despite the fact that almost a third of that bag is taken up with diabetes supplies for Cazzy.

When we first started backpacking, we took far too much stuff with us, and have over the years got much better at taking only what’s needed.

There are a lot of benefits to sharing just one bag between two people, and if you plan on travelling with a partner, I recommend opting for just one bag as well.

Amongst other things, it forces you to think more minimalist and take only with you what you really need and will use every day.

If you're looking for a backpack and daypack combination that's waterproof, spacious and practical, then we highly recommend the Salkan.

We've conducted a full review on the Salkan backpack and daypack which you can find here , but I seriously feel it's a fantastic investment that will last you a lifetime of travels.

We've been using it for a while now across Canada and the USA, and it's great.

You might also like: Best Sustainable Backpacks

Travel Essentials for women and men

I’ve broken things down here to help you organise your own trip packing list into more straightforward chunks.

Feel free to skip ahead if you’re looking for more info on a specific section.

Men’s Packing List

Here’s a look at all the items I might typically take with me travelling.

Of course, my exact backpacking packing list will depend on things like weather, time of year and religion (all mentioned back at the start of this post).

• Evening shirt
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Trainer socks
• Hiking socks
• Trainers - Tropicfeel trainers are one of the best things to bring when travelling abroad for long periods of time, as they are an excellent all-round travel shoe. Here’s my full review of Tropicfeel and why I think they're great.
• Hiking boots - Only include these in your travel packing list if you honestly think they will get regular use. We carried ours for 4 months around South America and they only got used twice!

Hot weather packing list items:

• Swim trunks
• Flip flops - I recommend Reef , as they are excellent quality and great for wearing long distances. These were teh first backpacking gift I received, and I take them with me wherever I can

Cold weather packing list items:

• Evening coat

Female packing list

Here’s a look at the range of items Cazzy might take with her depending on the nature of the trip.

As you can see, her packing list is a bit different to mine ...

• Water shoes - Absolutely ideal when packing for Thailand and other water-based destinations.
• Sarong - Essential for covering up at religious sights and at beaches 
• Stylish hat
• Light rain jacket
• Long skirt - If you're travelling to Asia, try and pick up some locally made ones which are gorgeous and perfectly made for hotter climates. I picked mine up in India and absolutely love them!
• Light trousers - Check out Buddha Pants for great lightweight travel trousers
• Light jacket - I recommend checking out Apricoat for a great all-round weather and stylish lightweight jacket!
• Trainers - Skechers or Tropicfeel are good choices as they are great for walking and for pairing with outfits. 

Hot weather items:

• Playsuit or jumpsuit
• Sun dresses
• Swimming costumes/bikinis

Cold weather items:

First aid kit

A basic first aid kit is one of the most important things to pack for a trip.

We take a first aid kit with us on all trips and it contains all the basics you might need in case of minor injuries; including:

• Diarrhoea kit
• Needles and thread
• Moleskin tape
• Bandages & tape
• Scissors/nail clippers
• Paracetamol
• Antiseptic cream

Ready-made travel first aid kit

If you don’t yet own a travel first aid kit, then here’s a good option to buy.

It contains the majority of what you need and you can then just add in any other items you want to take with you.

Plus, it’s small enough to tuck away in your backpack and not take up much space.

Toiletries packing list

We tend to pick up some basic toiletries before we head abroad, as it can be expensive buying a lot of these in foreign countries.

If you’re heading on a backpacking trip of more than a month, then don’t take enough for your whole trip as it will add a lot of weight and increase your risk of a toiletry explosion inside your bag!

Here’s our typical toiletries list for when we travel:

• Wash bag - Get one with a handle ( like this one here ) as you can then hang it up in almost all bathrooms no matter how cramped.
• Shampoo & conditioner 2 in 1
• Dry shampoo
• 2 x toothbrushes
• 2 toothbrush travel containers
• Disposable razors
• Shaving foam
• Electric razor
• Small perfume
• Small aftershave
• Men’s deodorant
• Women’s deodorant

Travel Banking

I think travel banking is a key part of any travel packing list and something that many people don’t really think of until they find themself in a foregin country paying exorbitant exchange fees!

Travel cards offering the best exchange rates are essential things to pack for travelling, so make sure you’ve got yours sorted!

To make sure we get the best rates everywhere and have enough cards in case one gets lost or stolen, we always take 4 travel cards between us.

• 2 live in my wallet
• 1 lives in my big rucksack
• 1 lives in Cazzy’s big rucksack or day bag

That way, if disaster struck and we lost a bag or my wallet, then we always have a way to access more money and help us get home.

Which travel cards do we use?

As we’re from the UK, we use both Monzo and Revolut .

These are UK-based companies that (at least at the time of writing) aren’t available outside of the country.

So if you're from another country, do your research of local credit card companies ahead of time and try to find a credit cards that doesn't charge you fees on converting to foreign currencies.

Also look at what they charge for withdrawals.

Both Monzo and Revolut give you £200 of free withdrawals every month, and you then pay a 2% fee on any amounts above that.

With 4 cards between us, this means we very rarely pay any fees on withdrawals.

Most countries now take cards in all shops and restaurants so we just try to pay with a card whenever possible.

Getting setup with both these providers is dead simple, you simply download the app, fill in some basic details and then order your free card from within the app.

There’s more info in there about how the cards work and there’s options to upgrade to a monthly membership and gain access to reduced fees and other cool perks.

• Find Monzo here: Apple / Android
• Find Revolut here: Apple / Android

Read Also: Monzo vs Revolut: Which Is Best For Travel?

Important Travel Documents

Here’s a look at the final items that I would class as vacation packing list essentials.

• Wallet to hold important documents - This has been a lifesaver for us! A simple plastic wallet that allows you to keep all important documents in one place, ready for when you need them.
• Driving license and international driving license - If you plan on hiring a car or moped abroad, then make sure you pick up an International Driver’s Permit at least a month before you plan to leave. If you’re from the UK, then this can be done at The Post Office .
• Copy of your passport - We take these just in case we were to lose our passports and needed some basic proof of our identity. Plus, if you ever need your passport details, then you can refer to these rather than getting your passports out.
• Copy of your vaccinations - Some countries require proof that you have received certain vaccinations before they let you into the country. A big one is Yellow Fever , and we’ve been asked to show this at the border of a number of countries around the world. If you don’t have it, they may deny you entry.
• Print out of your travel insurance - If you do have some sort of accident abroad, it’s worth having a print out of your policy in order to show doctor’s what you are covered for and help avoid paying fees there and then.
• Travel insurance - Always, always, ALWAYS buy travel insurance before you travel. Sure, you may never need it, but if you do have a major accident abroad, without it you can be left stranded there with 6 or 7 figure medical bills. If you’re from the US, then SafetyWing seems to be a good option for quick insurance with good coverage. If you're from the UK, then Compare The Market is what I’ve found offers the best range for my sort of trips - Annual Policy with unlimited trips abroad, each one a maximum of 4 months long.

Cameras & Other Travel Tech

Over the years, we’ve started paying more and more attention to the types of tech we take abroad. Including blogging cameras , laptops, lenses, and more!

Not least because they help us to create epic travel content to share with you on the blog!

Here’s a look at what we take with us on a typical trip abroad and what to pack for travel if you want to up your travel photography skills .

This is basically a larger, more professional camera which you can then upgrade by purchasing a variety of different lenses. The DSLR we use is now almost a decade old, but still works incredibly well. If you’re serious about upping your photography game then a great place to start is by picking up a DSLR. You can then upgrade over time with a variety of lenses. Check out our latest guides for more help choosing the right lens: Sony a7 / Sony a7ii / Sony a7iii / Sony a7riii / Sony a6000 / Sony a6300 / Sony a6400 / Sony a6500 / Sony a6600 / Sony z6 / Canon M50 / Canon 80D / Canon 90D / Canon 6D Mark II / Panasonic GH5 / Nikon D750 / Nikon D850 / Nikon D3100 / Nikon D3200 / Nikon D3300 / Nikon D3400 / Nikon D3500 / Nikon D5600 ‍

Handheld video camera

If you’re looking for an all-in-one handheld camera that allows you to capture great photos and excellent videos, then you really can’t go wrong with this camera. It’s so small and compact that we can take it on day trips no matter where we are, and don’t have to worry about it taking up too much space. And what’s great is that the sound recording quality is superb so it’s great if you plan on vlogging and editing cool videos together. 

Underwater camera / action camera

When we upgraded our GoPro from the Hero 4 to the Hero 8, we really couldn’t believe the difference in quality. The Hero 8 solves every issue we’ve ever had with its older counterpart and is now one of my favorite pieces of travel gear. It’s small and slim and doesn’t require a bulky waterproof case. The image stabilisation is out of this world, also it records high quality sound so can be used to record in far more situations. In terms of taking photos, the quality is okay, but it proves great for those fisheye selfies. You definitely need one of these (or one of the cheaper alternatives to GoPro ) if you plan on doing any adventurous or underwater activities.

The popularity of drones has truly exploded over the last few years and they’ve gone from being a rarity to the norm at most popular tourist spots. We love our DJI Mavic Pro and take it with us everywhere (as long as it’s legal of course). DJI is the go-to brand for reasonably priced, superb quality travel drones . But if the price tag of the Mavic Pro or Mavic 2 is a little high, you can pick up a reasonably priced alternatives to DJI as well. Many of which have a similar spec but come in far cheaper.

Other Gadgets we travel with

What To Pack For Travel: Health & Safety

Beyond taking a basic first aid kit with you, there’s a few other health & safety items you may need to pack to keep you healthy when abroad.

These can include:

• Important medication & supplies - For us, this takes the form of Cazzy’s spare type 1 diabetes equipment. It usually fills about a third of my big rucksack if all in one place so takes up a significant amount of room. One thing I will say is that if you have important medication as well, then be sure to split it up into two different places. So that, if one bag did go missing or gets stolen, then you have enough backup supplies to last you until you can replace those that are lost.
• Mosquito repellant spray - If you plan on going somewhere hot, then pick up some great quality bug spray before you go. It’s not only for mosquitos, but can keep all other annoying insects at bay.
• Plug in mosquito deterrent - We take one of these with us when visiting countries where mosquitoes are a real issue (aka most parts of Southeast Asia!). You simply plug this into the wall socket at night and it emits a high frequency sound to keep unwanted buzzing pests away.
• Sunscreen - We’ve started taking more and more note of how damaging certain products can be. That’s why it’s worth picking up reef-friendly sunscreen as it’s nowhere near as damaging as typical sunscreens.
• Antimalarials - Before visiting certain countries, speak to your travel nurse or search online to see which countries have malaria risk . We’ve needed tablets for many parts of Asia, as well as South America. We always opt for Doxycycline as, in the UK at least, it’s a lot cheaper and has never caused us any side effects.
• Travel Padlock - To help keep your belongings safe, it’s worth picking up one padlock for every bag you have. They come in useful when staying in hostels where you need to lock your stuff away. They’re also great for when you need to store your luggage away in the hold at the airport or on a bus and you want to be sure no one is rifling through them. Be sure to get one that is TSA approved .

Miscellaneous Things To Pack For Travel

We’ve already covered most of our international travel packing list, but here’s a few other products that didn’t fit the categories above and which you may want to discover.

• Fold down coffee mug - Saves space in your luggage whilst helping to cut down on your use of non-recyclable materials. (Check out Super Sparrow! )
• Handpresso - I bought one of these for Cazzy on her birthday and she has never looked back! As someone who loves great espresso coffee, it’s an absolute game changer as she can indulge this pleasure no matter when in the world she is. If you’re a bit of a coffee snob as well, and want to save money on those daily coffee runs, then it can be a great investment.
• Reusable Water Bottle - Great for the environment and super convenient
• Worldwide travel plug - A must have travel item!
• Pin to open the sim card hole on the phone - I keep a small metal one of these in my wallet at all times.
• Dry bag - Great when out exploring places on water.
• Quick drying towel - We take one of these on all of our backpacking adventures as they are small and quick drying so can be used when out and about for the day.
• Playing cards
• Hand sanitiser
• Packing cubes - If you’re limited in packing space, these are perfect for helping you to stay organised.
• Kindle - Personally, I just use the Kindle app on my phone to read books. But these are much more lightweight than packing physical books.
• Physical books/travel guides - Sometimes it’s nice having the real thing!
• Buff - This is a great piece of travel gear, it’s so versatile and can have dozens of uses when travelling. Such as helping you to block out light and noise in order to sleep when travelling. Or, for keeping dust and sand out of your face when out doing something adventurous.
• Ear plugs - Essential if you plan in staying in hostels.
• Waist bag - I used this all day every day when walking The Camino .
• Multivitamins - It’s natural that as you travel your diet will suffer somewhat. It can be hard getting varied foods in you, so multivitamins are a great way to just make sure you’re getting a well-balanced array of nutrients and vitamins in your system.
• Waterproof phone case - A cheap alternative to buying a GoPro, but only for less adventurous water activities.
• Underwater dome for GoPro - Allows you to capture incredibly unique photos that are otherwise impossible.
• Bluetooth speaker
• Snorkel - If you are heading somewhere you’ll be doing a lot for snorkelling (such as The Philippines ) then buying you brown can prove a lot cheaper and better.
• Binoculars - For you nature enthusiasts who plan on going on safari or just doing a lot of nature watching out and about.
• Travel pillow - Personally, we don’t use these as they take up a lot of space. However, if you plan on doing a lot of bus and plane journeys, then this could be a worthwhile compromise.
• Mosquito net - We’ve never really needed one of these, but if you are staying in cheaper hostels in spots that are at higher risk of mosquitoes, then it could be worth taking with you.

What NOT to pack for travel!

Here’s a few items that DON’T deserve a spot in your travel packing list!

• A sleeping bag - Unless you plan on camping, then don’t bother taking a sleeping bag. We’ve never needed one on any of our backpacking journeys.
• A stupidly big bag - Taking a ridiculously big backpack or suitcase with you travelling is bad because it encourages you to fill it with useless backpacking gear you don’t actually need. Sure, this packing list is long, but we probably only take half these items on any one trip, so as to save space and only take what we actually end up using.
• Jewellery - Unless you’re going on a fancy holiday to somewhere with a safe to store your valuables, it’s not a smart idea to take lots of jewellery with you. One or two pieces that you wear all the time might be fine, but if you’re travelling for a long time then you’re at an increased risk of theft. If you are out and about with lots of tech or other valuables, pick up one of these anti-theft bags which can help better secure your belongings.
• Too many white-coloured clothes - Based on experience, if you’re planning on travelling for a long time and clothes will all be packed away in a rucksack, then whites are not a good idea. They’re so easy to get stained and dirty, and will have to be washed more regularly or more thoroughly than coloureds.
• Big towels - Every single hotel we have ever stayed in has provided us with towels, so the only towels we’ve taken is a light microfibre towel which is quick drying. If you’re in hostels constantly, then a big cotton towel is still a bad choice as it’s going to take up lots of room and never truly dry in a dank hostel room.
• Lots of books - Again, unless you’re going for a relaxing holiday in just one place, then taking multiple books with you is not a smart idea. I do the majority of my reading from the Kindle App on my smartphone. I must admit, reading a paperback book is better than reading off a device. So I will sometimes have one paperback book with me, but after reading I then trade it in at the next hotel or hostel for another one. 

Our Top Travel Packing Tips

Before starting to pack, lay everything out.

This is great because it allows you to quickly check through and make sure you haven’t forgotten anything before actually packing. You can also see whether your bags will realistically be big enough to store everything. You can also better create systems of how to compartmentalise all of your backpacking gear.

Ask yourself “Do I really need this?”

Another benefit of laying everything out before you pack is that you can ask yourself: “do I really need this?”. One of the great things about travelling for long periods is that it shows you how little from your life back home you actually need to use every day. Plus, if you do suddenly need an extra pair of pants or something, you’ll easily be able to buy one abroad.

Make a separate carry on packing list

It’s worthwhile taking a few minutes to write out absolutely everything you think you may need on your flight. There's nothing worse than being 5 minutes into a long haul flight, suddenly realising you left something important in your hold luggage! For me, this always includes things like earphones, travel laptop , a jacket and snacks.

Pack valuables in your carry on

We always aim to keep as much of our valuables as possible in our carry-on bag. This includes things like our laptops and cameras. It’s nice having them to hand, knowing that they can’t get broken or stolen when being passed through transit in the hold.

Take double the supplies for important medication

One thing that you simply cannot afford to go light on when packing is any important medication or health supplies. With Cazzy’s type 1 diabetes equipment, she always takes at least 2 or 3 times the bare minimum she will need. This covers against any unforeseen event, such as insulin getting frozen, equipment being broken in transit or stuff getting stolen.

It’s worth paying a little more for quality gear

If you plan on doing a lot of travelling in coming years, then it’s worth spending a little more on top quality bags, shoes and camera equipment. It actually saves you money in the long run, as you otherwise may need to constantly replace broken and worn out equipment. It also makes for a much more enjoyable travel experience overall. 

Fill every crevice

Rather than just placing items into your bags, think strategically about ways to save space. A big one is filling any open spaces with smaller items. For example, if you have spare shoes in your case, then stuff smaller items inside, like socks.

Always leave a little space

Based upon what you have packed, do you think there will be space to pack any souvenirs you pick up along your travels? It’s always nice to pick up small trinkets and souvenirs to remember your trip, but you have to realistically have enough space in which to fit them and bring them home!

Pack a couple of carrier bags in the bottom

Stuff will naturally get dirty as you travel, so we always include a couple of carrier bags or bin liners within our bag. That way, we can quickly throw any dirty shoes or wet clothes into these and keep them away from everything else inside which is nice and clean.

Well, that’s about it!

This ultimate travel packing list should be all you need to plan virtually any trip around the world!

Of course, everyone is different and will require key things when abroad, so be sure to draw up your own packing checklist and include those things important to you.

If you think I’ve missed anything key then just drop a comment below!

You may also be interested in checking out the destination-specific packing lists we've put together, including:

• What To Pack For Sri Lanka
• What To Pack For Thailand
• What To Pack For Bali
• What To Pack For India
• What To Pack For Ireland
• What To Pack For The Camino

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Hello all you ghouls and ghosts! It’s almost that bewitching time which means you’re probably itching to hop onto your brooms and fly to a Halloween adventure from your local airports. Here are the tips to make sure your trick-or-treating in the airports is just as sweet as your bucket of candy (without all of the cavities).

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Turkey trot on your way through the airport

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Passing Thru Travel

2024 Travel Guide – 10 Essential Packing Tips for Every Climate Adventure

Posted: February 22, 2024 | Last updated: February 22, 2024

Traveling across different climates can be a challenge when it comes to packing. Whether you’re venturing into the icy Arctic, the humid tropics, or the variable conditions of the mountains, being prepared is key. This guide provides essential packing tips for various weather conditions, ensuring you’re equipped to comfortably enjoy your adventures, regardless of the climate.

1. Tropical Climate

When packing for tropical climates like Southeast Asia or the Caribbean, your primary goal is to stay cool and comfortable. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing made from materials like cotton or linen. Long-sleeved tops and pants can protect you from the sun and mosquitoes. A good quality, water-resistant sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses are crucial to protect against intense sun exposure. For footwear, breathable sandals or waterproof shoes are ideal. Remember to pack a lightweight raincoat or poncho for sudden downpours, common in tropical regions.

Insider’s Tip: Choose clothing in light colors to reflect the sun’s rays and stay cooler.

2. Desert Climate

Desert environments, such as those in the Middle East or North Africa, require you to protect yourself from extreme heat and sun exposure during the day and potentially cool temperatures at night. Pack light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible. A high-quality sun hat with a wide brim and UV-protection sunglasses are vital. Include a lightweight scarf or bandana for sand protection and a good SPF sunscreen. For hydration, bring a durable, insulated water bottle. Comfortable, closed-toed shoes are important to protect your feet from hot sand and rough terrain. For cooler evenings, a light jacket or sweater is advisable.

Insider’s Tip: Wear closed-toed, breathable shoes to protect your feet from hot sand and rough terrain.

3. Arctic and Antarctic Climates

Preparing for polar regions like the Arctic and Antarctic involves layering for extreme cold. Start with thermal base layers (wool or synthetic) and add fleece or wool mid-layers for insulation. Your outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Insulated, waterproof boots are essential, along with thermal socks, waterproof gloves or mittens, and a warm beanie or balaclava. Sunglasses with UV protection are necessary to prevent snow blindness. Pack a sturdy, insulated water bottle, and consider bringing high-energy snacks.

Insider’s Tip: Pack chemical hand and foot warmers for extra comfort during long outdoor excursions.

4. Mountainous Climate

In mountainous areas like the Rockies or the Alps, weather can change rapidly, so layering is essential. Waterproof and breathable clothing is key. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating layers like fleece or down jackets, and a waterproof outer shell. Good quality hiking boots, thermal socks, a warm hat, and gloves are a must. A daypack is useful to carry extra layers, water, and snacks. Also, consider packing a headlamp, as daylight can be unpredictable in mountainous terrains.

Insider’s Tip: Bring a compact first-aid kit for minor injuries on the trail.

5. Temperate Climate

For temperate climates with moderate temperatures, versatility in your clothing is key. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved tops, a couple of sweaters or fleece jackets, and a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. An umbrella or a rain hat can be useful for unexpected showers. You can adjust layers as temperatures change throughout the day.

Insider’s Tip: Choose clothing that can be mixed and matched to maximize outfit combinations.

6. Rainforest Climate

In rainforest environments, like the Amazon, pack lightweight and breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect against insects and dense vegetation. Quick-dry fabrics are preferable. Waterproof hiking boots or shoes, a waterproof jacket or poncho, and a hat are essential. A high-DEET insect repellent is necessary, as are zip-lock bags or waterproof pouches to protect your electronics and important documents from humidity.

Insider’s Tip: Pack zip-lock bags to keep electronics and important documents dry in humid conditions.

7. Savannah Climate

For savannah climates, as found in regions like East Africa, choose breathable, light-colored clothing to stay cool and protect against the sun. Long sleeves and pants will also protect you from insects. A broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes or boots are important. Include binoculars for wildlife spotting and a high-quality camera with a zoom lens to capture distant animals.

Insider’s Tip: Wear layered clothing for early morning safari drives, which can be chilly.

8. Mediterranean Climate

Visiting Mediterranean destinations like Greece or Italy requires packing for warm days and cooler evenings. Include light and airy daytime wear, swimwear, a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring. Sun protection is essential, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A lightweight, foldable daypack is useful for day trips and beach outings.

Insider’s Tip: Bring a lightweight, foldable daypack for day trips and beach visits.

9. Subarctic Climate

Layering for varying conditions is important in subarctic regions, such as parts of Scandinavia. Thermal base layers, wool or fleece mid-layers, and a waterproof, insulated outer layer are essential. Warm, waterproof boots, wool socks, gloves, and a hat are necessary to protect against cold temperatures. Packing a thermos can be a nice addition to keep your drinks warm during outdoor activities.

Insider’s Tip: Bring a compact, insulated travel mug to enjoy hot beverages during your outings.

10. Urban Climate

Traveling to urban environments requires packing for both comfort and versatility. Depending on the climate, include a mix of casual and more formal wear suitable for day-to-night transitions. A stylish, weather-appropriate coat or jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or lightweight raincoat for unpredictable weather are key. A portable charger and a secure, stylish bag for your belongings will keep you prepared and safe during city explorations.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a crossbody bag or a backpack with security features for city exploring.

The Bottom Line

Packing effectively for diverse climates means balancing practicality with comfort. By focusing on layering, protecting against specific weather elements, and choosing versatile pieces, you can enjoy your travels to the fullest, no matter the destination’s weather. Remember, being well-prepared allows you to focus on the incredible experiences each unique climate has to offer. Happy travels!

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The post 2024 Travel Guide – 10 Essential Packing Tips for Every Climate Adventure republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / I am Kulz.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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The 7 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love space-saving packing cubes for long and short trips, and these are the best out there.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Look for sets that include multiple sizes

• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Packing cubes are hands down one of the best travel hacks out there. Whether you’re a meticulous list-maker or planning procrastinator, investing in a set of packing cubes is a game changer for staying organized and saving space without having to put in too much effort. 

At Travel + Leisure , we take our travel hacks seriously so we put 23 sets of regular and compression packing cubes to the test both in our New York City lab and out during real travels to find the best ones on the market. We understand that everyone has unique preferences so we also found picks for travelers embarking on long trips, outdoor adventurers, and minimalist packers looking for one just a few cubes to do the trick.

Best Overall

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

The lightweight cubes easily compress clothing down to save space in a suitcase. 

They repel some water but are not waterproof. 

We love the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes thanks to their impressive space-saving ability. During six months of tests, we found these cubes to be monumentally helpful when it comes to consolidating and organizing clothing items between the different-sized cubes. The compression cubes help you get more items packed than a regular version of a packing cube and the sturdy zippers make compressing the packed cubes easy, leading us to believe that these cubes will last over time with the durable zippers and stitchwork. 

Although the nylon material isn’t waterproof, we splashed a little water on the outside and found that the material repels some water (but the clothing should remain dry with the extra protection of a suitcase, too). Plus, the handles on the top of each cube make it easy to grab the bags for packing and unpacking, and we love that the set includes an extra-large, large, medium, and small bag for variety.

The Details: 3 or 4 bags included | 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), and 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small) | Ripstop nylon

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes

 Amazon

• Design 4 /5
• Quality 4 /5

The set includes four cubes and a laundry bag. 

The mesh tops aren’t waterproof or resistant.

Whether you’re traveling with family or heading on a solo trip , these Shacke packing cubes are a steal of a deal. The set includes extra-large, large, medium, and small packing cubes, as well as a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Designed for up to 14 days of traveling, we found that the cubes lived up to their promise of providing plenty of space for a variety of types of clothing like pants, toiletries, shirts, and jackets. The cubes easily fit in the carry-on suitcase we used and with the various sizes, you can customize how many cubes you want to pack depending on the type of suitcase you have. 

While the cubes likely won’t prevent water from seeping through due to the mesh tops, you can easily see what you packed inside so you won’t have to unpack everything to find a piece of clothing. During our tests, we felt the durable nylon material and zippers would hold up well with prolonged use, and you can't beat the price for the full set either. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), and 20.5 x 15.75 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon

Best for Long Trips

Veken packing cubes with laundry and shoe bag.

The set includes four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag. 

These have to be hand-washed and air-dried. 

If you’re traveling internationally or taking an extended vacation, consider picking up a set of these Veken packing cubes from Amazon. The four packing cubes are thoughtfully designed with a clear strip on the top so travelers can easily see what they packed, and there are small graphics printed onto each cube recommending what type of clothing item could be stored inside. This set also includes a shoe bag and a laundry bag so you can keep your items separated and organized. We like that there are several different sizes so you don't have small items moving around in a cube that's too big or trying to cram a larger sweatshirt into something too small.

We think these nylon and polyester packing cubes are made to last with a thick fabric exterior and sturdy zippers and stitchwork. After six months of use, there is no sign of wear and the zippers are holding up well. Although we found the cubes to be slightly heavier than others we tested so keep that in mind if you’re an overpacker or striving to stay under the standard 50-pound limit for checked luggage. 

The Details: 6 bags included | 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 (shoe bag), and 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polyester 

Best for Camping

Rei co-op expandable packing cube set.

The tent-like material is lightweight and has a rugged look.

The mesh top doesn’t feel as durable as we hoped and these bags lose their shape when fully packed.

Outdoor enthusiasts should consider REI Co-op’s lightweight packing cubes for upcoming camping trips. The set of two comes with large and medium packing cubes that remain at the standard three-inch height or they can be expanded another three inches to double the capacity. After six months of regularly using the packing cubes, we found that all seams and zippers held up extremely well, even after packing heavy winter clothing.

In testing, the tent-like nylon proved to be water-resistant as advertised, however, the top of the cubes are made of a breathable mesh that doesn’t repel water and felt a little less sturdy than the nylon portion. Though the mesh top isn’t ideal for waterproofness, we like how easy it is to see what we packed through the little mesh holes. Plus, the lightweight materials are ideal for campers or backpackers looking to stay organized without sacrificing weight. 

The Details: 2 bags included | 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) and 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium) | Ripstop nylon and polyester

Best Sustainable

Peak design packing cubes.

Peak Design

Peak Design uses 100 percent recycled materials to make the cubes.

The easy access zippers were finicky to use.

San Francisco-based Peak Design is known for its slew of sustainable outdoor gear made with carbon neutral and recycled materials, including expandable packing cubes. We tried the small- and medium-sized cubes and found them to be spacious, well-built, and resistant to water after splashing a bit on the exterior. After regularly using the cubes for six months, we loved the capacity of the medium cube and found the smaller option to be good for packing undergarments or even toiletries. We especially love that the cubes are made from 100 percent recycled nylon that is solution-dyed to prevent excessive water use following the brand’s carbon-neutral footprint and each bag expands to fit even more items.

The cubes can compress down to a height of 3.1 inches, but we discovered they function best as an expandable packing cube that can increase in size, rather than a compression cube that is designed to heavily consolidate clothes. Additionally, the cubes feature an “easy access” zipper so travelers can reach inside the bag without opening the whole thing, but we think this feature is unnecessary to use due to the zipper getting snagged. 

The Details: 1 bag included | Various sizes | Ripstop nylon

Best Personalized

Paravel packing cube quad.

• Design 4.5 /5

The cubes can be monogrammed with up to three letters for an additional $25. 

The large cube is so big it takes up most of the space of a carry-on bag.

Indulge your love for matching with this set of personalized packing cubes from Paravel. Although it costs an extra $25, you can get up to three letters embroidered onto the set of four packing cubes with 11 color options. If you're shopping for a stylish, functional personalized travel gift , this is a wonderful option. The set comes with one large, one medium, and two small-sized packing cubes that can hold an impressive amount of clothing and still fit in most carry-on bags. These cubes are great for any type of traveler, but especially for those looking for water-resistant cubes for checked bags that will be handled outside in different weather conditions. After six months of use, we found that these cubes provide exceptional organization with room to pack bulkier items in the larger bags and toiletries or undergarments between the two smaller cubes.

As a bonus, these cubes won't take up much space in between trips. They're easy to store and stack right inside one another. The size variety is also convenient for different types of trips and we love having the option to use one, two, three, or all four bags in a checked bag if needed.

The Details: 4 bags included | 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches (large), 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches (medium), and 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches (small) | Nylon

Calpak Packing Cubes 5-piece Set

There are 14 designs to choose from including groovy blue, retro sunset, and cheetah prints. 

The set might be better suited for frequent fliers.

If you travel often and are looking to invest in a splurge-worthy set of packing cubes, you can’t go wrong with these from Calpak. We love the unique design options with 14 colors and patterns to choose from including classics like solid pink and gold marble, or limited-edition prints like a wavy retro sunset and groovy blue picks. The set includes one large, one medium, and two small cubes, as well as a water-resistant envelope for cosmetics.

After six months of using these packing cubes during international trips, we found that all the bags were spacious enough to fit a variety of clothing options for organized and efficient packing. We love the diversity of sizes to hold things like undergarments as well as shoes if needed. We also love the option to bring a folded large cube to keep dirty clothes separate. The polyester material feels well-made and built to last, and the zippers zipped without any issues which helps justify the higher price point for this set. And, if you’re traveling with your family, we think the set would be great for separating and organizing clothing for several travelers thanks to the removable identification tags where you can write what clothing went into each cube. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large), 15 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small), and 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope) | Polyester

Other Packing Cubes We Liked

There were several sets of packing cubes we highlighted below that almost made our list of best packing cubes, but they fell short during testing due some minor flaws we noticed. 

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes : This set of compression packing cubes is great for budget-friendly travelers but our top pick is also a compression set that had a better overall performance in testing. 

Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : The set of three cubes is made with thick polyester that still feels lightweight, but besides that, there weren’t any standout features compared to our other top performers. 

Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes were spacious and water-resistant, but for $59, we expected a higher performance to match the price for three standard packing cubes.

We evaluated 23 sets of both compression and regular packing cubes in our New York City lab and based our testing on traits like capacity, design, quality, and value. First, we unpackaged the sets of packing cubes and examined the quality of the bags by twisting and pulling them to check the stitchwork and using the zippers to see if they snagged or glided smoothly. After packing the cubes with a variety of clothing items like pants, jackets, undergarments, and shirts, we placed the cubes in a carry-on suitcase to see how well they fit in a piece of luggage. Our top contenders for capacity and design provided plenty of space for a range of clothing items with useful and thoughtful features that made packing easier and more organized.

For compression-specific packing cubes, we paid close attention to how much space the packing cube saved once we zipped the compression zippers. For all cubes, we splashed a bit of water on the exterior and felt the inside to see if any of the packed contents were damp. After testing each set of cubes in our lab, we sent them home to be tested during real travels around the world for six months. We regularly collected insights on durability, functionality, and overall quality during this period to ensure each cube continued to impress.

Tips for Buying Packing Cubes

Compare compression versus regular packing cubes.

Compression packing cubes are designed to condense clothing by using the compression zipper to pack down the clothes in order to save space in a suitcase. Regular packing cubes are mainly for organizing clothes efficiently rather than consolidating clothing to make more room in a piece of luggage. Compression packing cubes can usually be expanded or compressed which gives travelers the best of both worlds.

One of the best parts about packing cubes is staying organized on the go with little effort. To help you keep like items together, consider buying a set of multiple packing cubes with different sizes. That way, you can know without opening the case what cube holds your pants, your shirts, your undergarments, and more. The various size options also let you mix and match the cubes to fit whatever luggage you're bringing from weekender duffles to large checked bags.

Flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester are best for packing cubes as they'll allow you to pack the most items. These materials also tend to be water-resistant, keeping your items extra safe throughout your travels.

When it comes to saving space, experts say you can fold your clothes or roll them — it ultimately doesn’t matter. The most important thing is maximizing your space, and packing cubes are great for doing just that. Besides saving space, packing cubes can help you stay organized before and during your trip making them a must-have travel organizer .

For travelers who usually use checked luggage, consider purchasing a set with five or six cubes included so you can maximize space in each suitcase. And, if you’re a carry-on-only type of traveler, one or two packing cubes in small or medium sizes could be better suited for your needs, and you won’t have to worry about storing a large set either. Backpackers or campers should consider getting just one or two compression or regular cubes that can fit in a backpack or weekender bag for lighter packing .

Depending on the size of your packing cubes and luggage, the bags can be placed in either compartment of a suitcase or duffel bag. As always, you'll want to do your best to evenly distribute the heavy packing cubes so the bag doesn't become top or bottom-heavy. Ideally, the rectangle shape of your cubes should make it easy to take up every inch of space in a suitcase.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't know what she was missing out on until investing in multiple sets of packing cubes. She put together this list of the best packing cubes based on the results from the packing cube test we conducted in our New York City lab.

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