Packing Like a Pro: Your Complete List for Every Trip
Packing is a quite an enormous task, and while there are lots and lots of lists out there to ensure you pack what you need for your upcoming vacation, I have put together the most comprehensive list of all. It doesn't matter where you're going, whether it's a shorter trip or a longer one, or what type of trip it is, this list should give you a seriously helpful place to start.
First, a few housekeeping items:
For each section, I will suggest a “minimalist” packing list. These things are the bare basics that any traveler needs while on the go.
After the “minimalist” section, you'll find “optional” packing items. These are items you can pick and choose from to make your vacation more comfortable. This section is all about what YOU need to thrive on YOUR vacation.
For instance, if you're going to the beach, you'll need a swim suit, duh! But, if you're going skiing in the mountains and won't have access to a pool or hot tub, then there's no point in bringing a swim suit. Make sense?
Finally, there is a free, downloadable version of this ultimate packing list that you can get by clicking the image below.
Click this image to get a free downloadable version of this packing checklist to print!
Packing
This section includes everything you need in order to pack for your trip! These items are essential to packing and a little investment here can save a lot of heartache later on.
Minimalist Packing
Luggage
This could be a carry-on bag or a checked bag, a backpack, suitcase, or a duffle bag – whatever you want.
Wallet/Purse
Silas uses a small clip wallet and I have a little leather cross body purse. Anything will work to keep your valuables together and close to you.
Optional Packing
Toiletry Bag
It’s nice to have a place to keep all your toiletries together. A quart-size storage bag can work, too, especially if you’re flying and need one anyway!
Packing Cubes
It wouldn’t add any space to your bag to include packing cubes – in fact, they’ll help organize your clothing and save you space! We use these super durable and lightweight Eagle Creek cubes. Would you believe me if I told you we’ve had ours for seven years? Gallon-size storage bags can also be used to great effect (although probably won’t last you as long!).
Daypack/Tote
Depending on the size of your luggage, you might also consider a small, packable daypack or tote for when you’re out and about.
Clothing
Clothing is arguably the most important section of your packing list – and the one that takes the most time to plan. Take your personal style, practicality, and the weather into account when planning what to pack for clothing. Whether you're going to a cold climate or warm, it's best to think in terms of layers! You also want everything you're bringing to go well with multiple other items.
Here are a couple of important questions to consider when figuring out clothing:
Will I be able to deal with the weather? If it's super hot, super cold, or super rainy, will I have the items I need to get by? (Obviously checking the weather ahead of your trip is step number one here!)
Do I have everything I need for the activities I plan to do, whether I'm going to a fancy dinner, hiking a mountain, or relaxing on a beach?
In an effort to make this packing list “universal,” I will make some general recommendations about clothing. Obviously, the exact items you choose are totally up to you. Whether you're going to snowcapped mountains, or the beach, pack accordingly.
Minimalist Clothing
Tops
These could include t-shirts, tank tops, blouses, shirts, thermals, etc. I suggest “minimalists” try to pack 4-6 tops in total. Bamboo or merino wool fabrics help with odor, so you can do laundry less frequently. Additionally, make sure most tops go with most bottoms!
Bottoms
These could be shorts, skirts, pants, leggings, etc. I would pack 3-4 options, if you want to stay “minimal.” Do take the weather at your destination into account!
Underwear
I’d bring 2-4 pairs of socks and 4-7 pairs of underwear at minimum. Again, look for bamboo, merino wool, or synthetic options to scare odor away! Ladies, you’ll want at least two bras, too.
Jacket
A nice jacket is a must. Even if you’re going somewhere warm, you’ll want a lightweight rain jacket to keep you dry in a storm. If you’re worried about cold weather, consider bringing a heavier thermal or sweater to layer underneath your rain jacket.
Shoes
I'd bring at least two pairs of shoes. This way, you always have something to switch into if one pair is wet or dirty. I'd probably bring one pair of athletic shoes and either a pair of sandals or another flat shoe. You need at least one pair of comfortable shoes. If you have a little extra room, boots or heels might work as well.
Optional Clothing
Depending on where you are going and your personal preferences and needs, you may also want to include some of the following clothing items:
Dresses
Suits
Swimsuits
Athletic Clothes
Pajamas
Optional Accessories
Belts
Hats
Scarves
Sunglasses
Gloves
Watches
Jewelry
Toiletries
Obviously, toiletries are a must, but do keep in mind that you can easily buy things while traveling! People do it all the time. So, if you’re going somewhere for longer than a week or two, just bring what you need to get started.
Minimalist Toiletries
Soap
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Comb
Nail Clippers
Optional Toiletries
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body Wash
Lip Balm
Mouthwash
Floss
Face Wash
Moisturizer/Lotion
Makeup
Hair Products
Hair Accessories
Brush
Bug Spray
Sunscreen
Glasses
Contacts and Solution
Cologne/Perfume
Q-Tips
Nail File
Tweezers
Hand Sanitizer
Shaving Supplies
Tissues/Toilet Paper
Vitamins
Medicines
First Aid Kit
Technology
Tech gear encompasses all the digital gadgets we need to survive in the modern world. If you’re working while you travel, you may need to bring a laptop with you; otherwise, consider downsizing as much as you can!
Minimalist Tech
Smartphone
A smartphone is a perfect minimalist travel companion. It’s your camera, translator, computer, e-book, phone, DJ, and probably several other things! Switch to an international provider or get a local sim card when you arrive at your destination if you’re going abroad. Don't forget your charger too!
Plug Adapter
If your destination country requires different plugs than you have back home, you’ll need an international plug adapter. We have several of this one.
Optional Tech
Headphones
If you like listening to music, movies, or podcasts, bring headphones along on your trip. For an inexpensive option, I like these. Or, Silas uses these really nice noise-cancelling headphones.
Computer
If you really need a computer while you’re away and your phone won’t be enough, bring your laptop. Just don’t forget the charger or any other accessories you’ll need while you’re away.
Camera
If your phone won’t fulfill your photography needs, then add a camera to your list. Don’t forget any accessories, like lenses, chargers, batteries, or memory cards!
E-Reader/Tablet
If you’re really into e-books, this might be another item that feels like a must. I personally use the Kindle app on my phone, but I realize there are many others who prefer a separate gadget. Again, don’t forget the charger – and to preload a few books!
Portable Charger
If you like using a portable charger, you may also want to add this to your list.
Travel Documents
These are all the bits of paper you'll need to survive a trip. Most of this stuff is super important, so make sure it makes its way into your bag. We keep most of these things in Silas's wallet and my purse, but it's good to split up your money (especially emergency cash) into more than one hiding spot.
Minimalist Documents
Passport/ID Card
You should ALWAYS travel with identification, even if just locally. When going abroad, you’ll need your passport (but should still bring your ID as backup).
Visa
Some countries will require you to get a visa in advance. This too is an absolute must where it’s needed. A simple search online should tell you if you need a visa to enter a specific country.
Money/Debit/Credit Cards
You won’t get far traveling without money! A good combination of “international currency,” local currency, and a mix of debit and credit cards is a safe bet. We like to travel with at least $100 US Dollars (Euros would work as well) for emergencies. In addition, we have a mix of cards split between us – a no-fee debit card (Charles Schwab), a no-fee Visa card (Capital One Venture One), and a no-fee Discover card (It). We always use our no-fee debit card to get money out of local ATMs, preferably not in airports or other super “touristy” areas.
Insurance Cards
Always bring your health and/or travel insurance with you when traveling!
Optional Documents
Tickets/Reservations
Printing out your tickets in advance is often not necessary, as most companies now offer e-tickets that you can use from your phone. Hotels don’t usually require anything – just say you have a reservation and give them your name. For this reason, I almost NEVER print these out.
A Final Note on Documents: If possible, save copies of your documentation to an online cloud storage service, so you can access these important items even if all of your other belongings are lost or stolen. This is also where we keep things like our wills and important banking and insurance information.
Miscellaneous
There are always a few things that don’t fit into the other big categories. This section is really dependent on the kind of trip you’re taking and who’s going with you. For instance, kids might necessitate more snacks and games. For this reason, all these items are considered "optional."
Pen
Journal/Notebook
Umbrella
Books/Magazines
Travel Guide
Snacks/Gum
Water Bottle
Playing Cards/Travel Games
Travel Pillow
Eye Mask
Ear Plugs
Small Blanket/Towel
Multi-tool
Sewing Kit
Click this image to get a free downloadable version of this packing checklist to print!
I hope this helps you finalize your packing list without too much hassle and ensures a successful trip!
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