Wondering what to pack for your trip? Use this easy travel packing checklist to tick off items as you go—your browser will even save your selections for next time! If you think we missed something essential, let us know—we’d love to hear from you!
Documents
- Passport, visa
- Tickets for airline, boat, train or bus
- Copies of passport, tickets, etc.
- Boarding pass
- Driver’s license
- Health insurance card
- List of medications, letter prescriber
- Travel insurance
- Student card
Custom Additions
Travel Aids
- Suitcases, backpack
- Itinerary
- Maps and directions
- Language guide
- Travel guide
- Travel pillow, sleeping mask, earplugs
- Travel locks
- Luggage tags
- Pens and paper
- Snacks, drinks
- Small pocket knife (not in carry-on!)
- Rope, expandable clothesline
Custom Additions
Financial
- Foreign currency
- Emergency money
- Credit card, debit card
- Extra wallet
- Money belt
Custom Additions
Appliances
- Cellphone, charger
- Photo camera, memory card, charger
- Laptop, iPad or Tablet, E-reader, chargers
- Travel adapter and converter
- Travel iron
- Flashlight
- Headphones
Custom Additions
Clothes
- Underwear
- Socks
- Sleepwear
- Shirts, polos
- Jeans, trousers, shorts
- Dresses, skirts
- Shoes, sneakers
- Flipflops, slippers
- Jackets, coats, raincoats
- Belts, ties
- Scarves, hats, gloves
Custom Additions
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, paste, dental floss
- Deodorant
- Tweezers (not in carry-on!)
- Soap, shampoo, conditioner
- Towels
- Nailcare
- Tissues, toilet roll
- Feminine hygiene
- Makeup, makeup remover
- Shaving supplies
- Skin products
- Brush, comb, hair products
- Glasses, contact lenses, supplies
Custom Additions
Health
- Medications, pain reliever
- First aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)
- Mosquito net
- Birth control, condoms
- Vaccines, health/dental checkup
- Vitamins
- Hand sanitizer/disinfectant
Custom Additions
General activities
- Swimsuit and big towel
- Walking shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Umbrella
- Daypack
- Books, e-books, magazines
Custom Additions
Here are some helpful instructions for using the travel packing checklist effectively:
1. Personal Essentials
- Plan Ahead: Gather your travel documents (passport, visa, and tickets) at least a week before your trip to avoid last-minute stress.
- Digital Backups: Take photos or scan your documents and save them securely in your email or a cloud service for emergencies.
- Currency Tips: If traveling internationally, check exchange rates and carry both local currency and a credit card for convenience.
2. Clothing
- Check the Weather: Research your destination’s climate to pack appropriate layers or lightweight clothing.
- Versatility is Key: Pack neutral-colored outfits that you can mix and match for multiple looks.
- Layer Smartly: If you’re short on space, wear your bulkiest items (like jackets or boots) while traveling.
3. Toiletries & Personal Care
- Travel-Sized Everything: Use refillable bottles for your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash to comply with airline liquid restrictions.
- Leak-Proof Packing: Place liquid items in resealable plastic bags to prevent leaks in your luggage.
- Personal Touch: Don’t forget skincare or special hygiene products you rely on at home.
4. Electronics
- Charge Up: Fully charge all devices the night before and pack chargers in easy-to-access compartments.
- Adapter Ready: Check the power outlets at your destination and bring a universal adapter if needed.
- Stay Organized: Use cable organizers or pouches to avoid tangled cords.
5. Adventure Gear
- Destination-Specific: For hiking or camping, prioritize lightweight and multipurpose gear like foldable bottles or quick-dry towels.
- Test First: Check your adventure gear at home to ensure everything works properly.
- Compact Options: Opt for gear that can be compressed, such as inflatable pillows or packable backpacks.
6. Travel Safety & First Aid
- Personalized Kit: Add items to your first aid kit that suit your health needs, like prescription medications or allergy relief.
- Easy Access: Keep the first aid kit in your carry-on for emergencies during transit.
- Be Prepared: Include a small note with emergency contact numbers and medical information.
7. Miscellaneous Items
- Comfort Matters: Pack travel-sized snacks, a neck pillow, and entertainment to make your journey more enjoyable.
- Stay Eco-Friendly: Bring reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags to minimize waste.
- Stay Connected: Pack a notebook or journal to jot down travel memories or plans.
General Packing Tips
- Use Packing Cubes: These help organize your items and maximize space.
- Follow the 3-1-1 Rule: When flying, liquids in your carry-on should be under 3.4 ounces, fit in one quart-sized bag, and only one bag per passenger.
- Pack Light: Lay out all the items you think you’ll need, then remove anything you’re unsure about.
- Double-Check Essentials: Always review the checklist one final time before leaving for the airport.
By following these tips, you can travel confidently knowing you’ve got everything you need!