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Looking for the ultimate packing list? Youve found it. Weve 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, weve also included an editable, printable travel checklistyou can customize for every trip! Download the Printable Travel Checklist below!
The Ultimate Packing List
This packing listshowsthe exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. Its broken down into three sections:
- Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
- Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
- General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently
This is the Table of Contents:
- Printable Travel Checklist
- Packing List For Luggage
- Packing List For Clothes
- Packing List For Toiletries
- Packing List For First Aid Kit
- Packing List For Makeup
- Packing List For Hair and Grooming
- Packing List For Electronics
- Packing List For Backpacking Gear
- Travel Documents and Money
- Travel Safety
- Pre-trip Checklist
- General Packing Tips
Printable Travel Checklist
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.
You can click the image below to open the editable file.
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 allthe items listed in various categories aboveand has spaces where you can fill in your own information:
- you can write in anitems 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 youll pack each item
Our readers looove our checklist! Below youll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!
Packing List by Categories
Below youll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Printthe checklist above to follow along.
Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
Airplane Outfit: Top, Bottom, Shoes
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.
Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage
Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.
If youre planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels wont work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel.
Youll 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.
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 theyre ours!
- Packing Cubes for Clothes
- Packing Organizer for Accessories
- Packing Organizer for Electronics
- Makeup Bag
- Toiletry Bag
- Shoe Bag
- First Aid [if applicable]
- Document Holder
- Other Organizers [as needed]
- Daypack/Personal item
Read this to find out more about why packing cubes are essential our readers swear by them and so do we!
Watch this video to discover TFG editors 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?
Tops | Jacket | Pants |Shorts| Boots
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.
Best Selling T-Shirt: Goodthreads Crew Neck
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.
- Top 1
- Top 2
- Top 3
- Top 4
- Top 5
- Bottom 1
- Bottom 2
- Bottom 3
- Dress [or other] 1
- Dress [or other] 2
Visit ourtravel clothing category for product suggestionsincluding the best travel pants, convertible travel dresses, and the bestcold weather items.
TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly
Now that youve 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.
Youll also want to choose your underwear and bras after youve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.
Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe
Nude colors [or the color closest to your skin tone] are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel.
For underwear, we recommend an average of ten [or one for every day of your trip up to ten days]. If youre traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear.
- Outerwear 1
- Outerwear 2
- Sleepwear 1
- Sleepwear 2
- Workout 1
- Workout 2
- Underwear 1-10
- Bra 1
- Bra 2
- Bra 3
- Socks 1-3
- Swimsuit 1
- Swimsuit 2
Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!
Leith Dress | Naot Sabrina Flat Sandal |Rebecca Minkoff Backpack | Sunhat
Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe throughthe colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.
Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk 4 Charcoal Comfortable Sneakers
For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs [no less than two, no more than four]. Bring one for sightseeing [walking], one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.
We have an entire category on the websitededicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats, walking shoes, travel sandals, hiking shoes, waterproof boots, ankle boots, and more.
- Shoes 1
- Shoes 2
- Shoes 3
- Hat
- Belt
- Purse Day
- Purse Night
- Wallet
- Scarf
- Jewelry
- Sunglasses
- Sunglasses Case
- Watch [or Travel Clock]
- Gloves [if applicable]
Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.
Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries
Toiletries
Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While theyvary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.
Travel size 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. Theyll enable you to bring only the the amount youll use for your trip.
Best Selling Toiletry Bag: eBags Pack-it-Flat Hanging Toiletry Kit
Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Shower Cap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Leave-In Conditioner
- Soap/Body Wash
- Loofah
- Razor
- Deodorant/Antiperspirant
- Body Moisturizer
- Face Moisturizer
- Sunblock
Optional Toiletries:
- Eye Cream
- Baby Powder [hot climates]
- Pumice Stone
- Hair Styling Product
- Female Urinal Device
- Tampons
- Menstrual Cup
- Toilet Paper
Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip.
First Aid Kit [optional]
Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, its a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own mini first aid kit.
- Prescription Medication
- Contact Solution [if needed]
- Pain Relievers
- Band-aids
- Travel-size Tissue Packet
- Digestion Tablets
- Upset Stomach Medication
- Allergy Pills
- Motion Sickness Tablets
- Antibacterial wipes/gel
- Bug Repellant [Deet-Free]
- Travel Size Sewing Kit
- Other
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.
- Eyebrow Pencil
- Concealer
- Foundation
- Powder
- Eye shadow palette
- Lipstick/lip gloss
- Blush
- Mascara
- Eye Liner
Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.
Hair / Grooming
Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.
Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Travel Dryer
Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.
- Hair Ties
- Hair Clips
- Bobby Pins
- Travel Size Hair Brush
- Travel Size Mirror
- Tweezers
Optional Hair / Grooming:
- Travel Size Blow Dryer
- 1 Flat Iron
- Nail Clipper
- Nail Buff
- Other
Readmore tips on stylingyour hair while traveling.
A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!
Electronics
The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not youre traveling for business or leisure.
International Universal Travel Adapter
If youre traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad. Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.
- International Travel Adapter
- Phone
- Phone Charger
- Phone Cover
- Camera
- Camera Charger
- Camera Battery 1
- Camera Battery 2
- Camera Memory Card 1
- Camera Memory Card 2
- Camera Cover
- Memory Stick [with important info]
- e-Reader
- e-Reader Charger
- e-Reader Cover
OptionalElectronics:
- Tablet
- Tablet Charger
- Tablet Cover
- Laptop
- Laptop Charger
- Laptop Cover
- Laptop Case
- Screen Protector
- Keyboard Protector
- Selfie Stick
- External Hard Drive
- External Hard Drive Cord
- Portable Power Bank
- Portable Power Bank Cord
- Music Device
- Music Device Charger
Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight.
Editors Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack [similar]
Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear
[if applicable]
If youre backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items youll 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.
- Headlamp
- Sleeping Bag Liner
- 2 Travel Locks
- Travel Towel
- Ear Plugs
- Swiss Army Knife
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Packable Tote
- Mosquito Net
- Pillow Case
- Spork
- Duct Tape
- Laundry Bag
- Laundry Line
- Sink Plug
- Eye Mask
- Travel Pillow
- Dry Bag
- Disposable Poncho
- Travel Size Umbrella
- Passport Size Photos [for visas on the go]
If youre traveling on a budget, read this post.
If youre staying at hostels, read this post.
If youre going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.
Travel Documents and Money
With the exception 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, USBstick, 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 productsthat are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend thisRFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!
Best Selling Anti-theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Black Messenger Bag
While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft pursein places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.
- RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
- Money Belt
- Anti-theft Travel Purse [optional]
Never carry your passport while sightseeing this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport [and other belongings] safe while traveling.
Pre-Trip Checklist
These are a few essential thingsto do as soon as you book your trip.
- Call banks to inform of travel plans
- Immunizations
- Check weather at destination
- Check baggage restrictions
- Check visa regulations
- Check immunization requirements [i.e. yellow fever]
Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.
Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube!
General Packing Tips
In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find outthe 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 severalyears!
The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:
Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes
As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes. When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint.
The clothing used in the videois 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 needto know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands.Trust me, theyre the ultimate game changer!
Destination PackingLists
We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page tofind your destination!
And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course Stop Overpacking.I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.
Learn more about Stop Overpacking here!
What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!
For destinations, please read:
- Europe Packing Lists
- Asia Packing Lists
- Africa Packing Lists
- North America Packing Lists
- South America Packing Lists
- South Pacific Packing Lists
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