DOWNLOAD OUR FREE PRINTABLE PACKING LIST!

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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category.

To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklistĀ you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!

 


The Ultimate Packing List


 

 

Table Of Contents

 

 

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

 

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

 

Here are the packing list for each categories:

 

 

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Click here to access the editable Google Doc printable checklist that corresponds to this article. You can also download the print-friendly, PDF version here .

 

Printable Travel Checklist

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Packing List by Categories

 

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

 

 

vacation-packing-list

Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Lo & Sons OG Tote

 

Luggage

 

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

 

 

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Best Selling Carry-on: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable, 21ā€

 

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

If youā€™re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels wonā€™t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel.

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

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

 

 

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Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

Clothes

 

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

 

 

Shirt | TankĀ |Ā Shorts | Sandals | Hat

 

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

 

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

 

 

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Best Selling T-Shirt: Unbound Merino Short Sleeve Crewneck Tee

 

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

 

 

Visit ourĀ travel clothing category for product suggestionsĀ including the best travel pants, stylish travel dresses, and the bestĀ cold weather items.

 

 

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TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Columbia Carson Pass II Jacket

 

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

Youā€™ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after youā€™ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.

 

 

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Wool& Sloan Signature Crew Neck Tee

 

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

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

 

 

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

 

 

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Ā Gevomir DressĀ with theĀ Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody Purse, Madewell Sun Hat and Taos Sneakers

 

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

 

 

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Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk Joy SneakersĀ 

 

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

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

 

 

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

 

 

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

 

Toiletries

 

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

ā€œTravel sizeā€ 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. Theyā€™ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.

 

 

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Best Selling Toiletry Bag: Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

 

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

 

 

Optional Toiletries:

 

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

 

 

vacation-packing-list

Wearing Sea-Band Wristband Natural Nausea Relief

 

First Aid Kit (optional)

 

Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, itā€™s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own ā€œmini first aid kitā€.

 

 

 

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

 

Makeup

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

vacation-packing-list

Half of my hair styled with theĀ T3 Lucea 1ā€³ Styling Iron. I use it to turn my frizzy curls into soft waves when traveling!

 

Hair / Grooming

 

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

 

 

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Best Travel Hair Dryer Brush: Dual Voltage Plavogue Styling Brush

 

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

 

 

Optional Hair Tools:

 

ReadĀ more tips on stylingĀ your hair while traveling.

 

 

packing-list

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

 

Electronics

 

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

 

 

packing-list

Compass Rose International Universal Travel Adapter

 

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

 

 

OptionalĀ Electronics:

 

 

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

 

 

packing-list

Editorā€™s Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (similar)

 

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

 

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

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

 

 

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

 

 

Using Lo & Sons OG Tote Bag as personal item

 

Travel Documents and Money

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

Travel Safety

 

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

 

 

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

 

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

 

 

packing-list

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

vacation-packing-list

With the Nomad Lane Bento Bag

 

Pre-Trip Checklist

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

vacation-packing-list

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

 

General Packing Tips

 

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

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

 

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

 

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube!Ā 

 

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

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

 

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

 

 

Stop Overpacking Ebook

 

Destination PackingĀ Lists

 

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

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

 

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here!

 

 


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


 

For destinations, please read:

 


 

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packing-list

 


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