The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need - The Travel Method (2024)

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Our vacation packing list gives you the ultimate checklist of everything you need to travel safely, smartly, and with style.

Download this entire checklist in PDF format at the end of this article for you to print, check, and take with you on your travels. That way, you’ll have a record of everything you’re traveling with and won’t forget any essentials.

The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need - The Travel Method (1)

Travel Documents

1. Passport

An RFID-blocking passport holder is a great addition to keep your passport safe and accounted for. Some people also like to make photocopies of their passports, just in case.

2. Documents Required at Destination

Some customs agents are not overly keen on digital documents shown on your phone. Try to print your key documents off before traveling, if possible, including:

  • hotel reservation,
  • onward or return flight, and
  • vaccine certificates (if applicable).

3. Travel Insurance

Don’t take the risk, even for short trips. Be sure to check the fine print of your insurance and the specifics of what you are covered for. Aggregator websites often list by best price rather than all the essentials you selected.

4. Driver’s License

While not all driver’s licenses are valid abroad, this can double up as an important document to verify your identity. As always, check your destination to see if your driver’s license is valid for driving.

5. Rental Car Confirmation

Have this document ready for when you get to the rental station. Make sure you also have all the necessary paperwork, such as an international driver’s license, if required.

6. Trip Itinerary

This travel binder gives you over 30 pages of printables to document and plan your trip. That way, you won’t waste time on trip last-minute planning and wasting time.

7. Travel Documents Organizer

Why spend time combing through scrumped-up papers in your carry-on? Keep all your documents in one safe place with a travel documents organizer.

8. Cash and Cards

Try to exchange cash before you fly, and use your cards for backup. Airports, in particular, will give you a very poor exchange rate once you land.

A top-up card can not only give you a better exchange rate at ATMs but also act as an invaluable barrier between your cash and your home bank account.

9. List of Emergency Contacts

Need a printable for this? This travel binder, mentioned above, has you covered.

10. Copies of Travel Documents

Particularly for documents such as passports and driver’s licenses, it’s a great idea to scan them in and print off copies at home. Add them to your travel document organizer for peace of mind.

Health and Personal Care

11. Medication

Medication should be taken seriously. Pharmacies in other countries may not be open on weekends, you may need a prescription, or it may be difficult to explain your symptoms in another language.

Consider packing medications you need, which may include your prescriptions and medication for:

  • Pain Relief
  • Birth Control
  • Allergy Medication
  • Antacids
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Insect Repellent
  • Vitamins

However, be sure to check the rules for traveling internationally with medications to the countries you’re going to (including the ones you’ll just be passing through). Some countries will have restrictions on the medications they allow into the country or restrictions on the quantity you can take.

12. Hand Sanitizer

It is easy to find hand sanitizer under 100ml (3.4 ounces) that you can bring on the plane. If you get one with a clip, it can be easily attached to a rucksack strap.

13. Antibacterial Wipes

Great to have on hand to wipe down taps, toilet seats, armrests, airplane trays, and any other hard services you’ll encounter, both in the airport and on the plane.

Tech & Electronics

14. Laptop and Charger

You’ll need your laptop if you plan to do some remote work on vacation. You’ll quickly discover conventional laptops can be very heavy to carry. Ultraportable laptops are ideal if you have to do some work while traveling. Also, consider a padded sleeve to protect your laptop when stowed in your carry-on or if your rucksack doesn’t have a laptop pouch.

15. Phone and Charger

Remember to turn off data roaming when you board the flight. Ensure you get a good international data plan (by getting an eSIM international data plan, an international data plan via your phone provider, or buying a local SIM at your destination).

A protective phone case is a worthy investment, as your phone is such an important device. And consider a second cable charger, particularly as charging cables often fray and break.

16. Portable Battery

Portable batteries are a lifesaver on long flights. This device can give you hours of additional charge if you want to use your phone or device to listen to music or watch movies. Remember to charge it the night before your flight.

17. Multi-Charger

Rather than having to travel with multiple cables, use a multi-charger cable. Not only will you save space, but you can also charge and use all your devices from one solitary point using one travel adapter.

18. Travel Adapter

Universal adapters are a great choice over single-purpose adapters. Such a device allows you to charge from nearly any country in the world. But wherever you go, you absolutely need one.

And we recommend getting one that comes with a universal power strip like Mogics or Bestek.

19. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Great for remote working, sleeping on flights, and relaxing. If headphones are too bulky for your carry-on, you can also consider noise-canceling earbuds.

I own and love using the Bose QuietComfort 20 noise-canceling in-ear headphones. If you’d rather go wireless, Bose has some newer models, including Quiet Comfort earbuds.

20. GoPro/Action Camera

What is great about GoPro is that you can take it literally anywhere. It’s a worthy investment if you want to snap from pools, beaches, hikes, and any outdoor activities. That way, you put your phone, or an expensive SRL/DSRL, at less risk. There are some great accessories for it, too.

21. Travel Speaker

Find a travel speaker that is waterproof, with wifi or Bluetooth connectivity. I own and travel with the Wonderboom speaker from Ultimate Ears.

Comfort

22. Travel Pillow

If you invest in a quality travel pillow, not the cheap ones found at the airport, they can really help you relax and sleep on flights, buses, and cars.

23. Lounge Pass

The airport lounge can make travel a far more pleasurable experience. If you travel often, a lounge pass can be a sound investment. Our guide on how to get airport lounge access will give you more information.

24. Sleeping Mask

Sleeping on a flight can be difficult if you are sensitive to light. With a comfortable design, sleeping masks can really help you get some shut-eye on long flights.

25. Earplugs

As with sleeping masks, cheap, conventional earplugs rarely work. Take some time to find a design that works for you, and earplugs will drastically reduce noise on flights.

26. Water Bottle

After security checks, you can fill up a collapsible water bottle using a free water fountain before you board. That way, you can stay hydrated throughout your flight.

27. Travel Blanket

Look for a travel blanket that packs up into a pouch. That way, you can attach it to your carry-on without taking up space. A/C, in particular on long flights, can make the plane very cold, so it’s always good to have a blanket that covers the length of your body.

28. Anti-Nausea Bands

Anti-nausea bands are great if motion or pressure changes on flights make you feel nauseous. They are so simple to use that you’ll barely notice them on your wrist.

Entertainment

29. Fire TV Stick

Most hotels and AirBnBs today are equipped with TVs that have, at the very least, HDMI compatibility. A Fire TV Stick allows you to watch Netflix, Prime, Disney+, YouTube, and plenty of other services, all from one place. All this highly portable device needs is an internet connection, HDMI port, and electrical socket connection.

30. Kindle Paperwhite

Reading is a great way to relax and pass free time. A Kindle Paperwhite is a super lightweight device that allows you to access all your downloaded titles offline. The device does not emit blue light, so you won’t feel eye strain after a short amount of time.

31. Travel Journal

Travel journaling can be very therapeutic in your downtime, encouraging you to write down thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

Packing

32. Weekender Bag

Packaging a smaller weekender bag in your luggage is a great idea. That way, you don’t need to lug a carry-on around for a day trip or weekend away while on vacation.

33. Carry On

Your carry-on needs to strike the perfect balance between comfort, space, and style. In addition, wheeled backpacks that can be used as carry-ons may also be a good choice for you, depending on the trip.

34. Checked Suitcase

Always choose function over style with suitcases. Suitcases get battered, so don’t get worried about how your suitcase looks. Choose one that is easy to push and designed to withstand heavy collisions. Depending on your trip, you may not need a checked suitcase.

35. Packing Cubes

Some debate that packing cubes don’t save space, but they are worth it purely for the organization alone.

36. Clothes

Use our clothes checklist to help you pack for your vacation and leave no stone unturned:

  • Tops
  • Shorts
  • Jeans and/or Pants
  • Leggings
  • Skirts
  • Dresses
  • Sweaters
  • Jackets
  • Rain Jacket
  • Swimsuit
  • Workout Clothes
  • Pajamas
  • Underwear
  • Socks

37. Accessories

Our accessories list can help you pack appropriately for your vacation:

  • Hats
  • Sunglasses
  • Belts
  • Scarves
  • Purses

38. Shoes

It is a good idea to pack a pair of casual shoes, a pair of going-out shoes, and a pair of training shoes if you work out. That set of three should cover you for most activities and scenarios. You can also consider the following:

  • Flip Flops
  • Sandals
  • Flats
  • Heels
  • Wedges
  • Tennis Shoes

39. Toiletries Bag & Toiletries

Get yourself a large toiletries bag, and be sure to pack your essentials. It can be difficult to find certain items abroad if you use specific shampoos, deodorants, or other toiletries. Don’t take the risk: the list below can help you:

  • Solid Shampoo
  • Solid Conditioner
  • Shower Gel and/or Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Floss
  • Face Wash
  • Moisturizer
  • Lip Balm
  • Perfume/Cologne
  • Sunscreen
  • Aftersun lotion
  • Razor
  • Feminine Hygiene Products
  • Nail Clippers & File
  • Tweezers

40. Beauty

Particularly for getaways and evenings at bars and restaurants, you will want to look your best and feel great. Our list can help you remember essential beauty accessories:

  • Makeup
  • Makeup Remover
  • Hair Dryer
  • Hair Straightener
  • Curling Iron
  • Hairbrush
  • Hairstyling Products

41. Glasses/Contacts

Always carry a spare pair of glasses. Make sure both pairs are packed into their provided glasses cases. If you wear contacts, bring more than you need for the duration of the vacation.

42. Jewelry Travel Case & Jewelry

Many leave expensive jewelry at home out of fear of loss or damage. A jewelry travel case is an excellent way to carry jewelry in a safe way. Our guide on how to pack necklaces while traveling, along with other jewelry, has plenty of smart tips to follow.

Miscellaneous

43. Money Belt

Money belts have come a long way from the stereotypical bulky belt of the nineties. Nowadays, there are plenty of clever designs out there.

44. Snacks

Aim for high-protein foods, and try to avoid foods with lots of added sugar. A bag of almonds, cashews, or trail mix are good choices. Our list of road trip snacks can provide you with some ideas on what snacks are good to pack with you.

45. Sewing Repair Kit

A sewing repair kit is simple to pack and stops you from having to go out and buy new clothes. Rips and tears are common when you’re constantly out and about and moving.

46. Stain Remover Stick

A stain remover is a great little accessory to remove coffee, wine, and other stains from clothes, hotel sheets, and carpet floors. We’ve used one countless times when traveling. If you act fast, you can not only save your favorite clothes, but you can also avoid disagreements and fines at hotels and Airbnbs.

47. Eyeglass Repair Kit

An eyeglass repair kit is essential to pack if you don’t use contacts. The screws used to connect the temples to the frames are so tiny that conventional screwdrivers are too big to fix them. Alternatively, pack a spare pair of glasses.

48. VPN Account

VPNs like ExpressVPN allow you to browse the internet via a masked IP address anonymously. Hotel and coffee shop wifi, in particular, are incredibly vulnerable to hackers due to poor security. VPNs give you peace of mind that no one can stalk your activities online.

Packing List by Activity

Certain types of trips require specialized equipment. If you plan to hike on vacation, you’ll need hiking boots. Whereas if you’re heading on a beach holiday, you’ll swap those hiking boots for beach towels and sun parasols.

These essential lists of gadgets and gear could be of use to you for certain types of vacation:

Vacation Packing List Summary

Don’t undertake your vacation without proper planning and preparation. Use our ultimate checklist with over 50 essentials to pack everything you need for a fun and memorable trip.

The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need - The Travel Method (2)

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The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need - The Travel Method (3)
The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need - The Travel Method (2024)

FAQs

How many clothes for a 1 month trip? ›

Choose versatile items you can mix and match.

Some people swear by the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method -- five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes and dresses, two swimsuits and bags, and one watch, hat, and pair of sunglasses.

What not to bring when traveling internationally? ›

  • Excessive Valuables: Leave expensive jewelry and unnecessary valuables at home.
  • Unnecessary Gadgets: Think twice before packing items you rarely use.
  • Too Many Clothes: Overpacking can make your luggage heavy, make travel difficult and limit space for souvenirs.
Oct 17, 2023

What to pack for a 5 day trip checklist? ›

What to pack for a 5-day trip checklist? (Things to put )
  • Clothes that you can use for Five Days. ...
  • Comfortable shoes that you can wear the Whole Day. ...
  • Disposal shower cap to keep your Bag Clean. ...
  • Comfy nightwear for your Trip. ...
  • Slippers for your Extra Comfort that you want to Have.

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method? ›

Its version of the 5-4-3-2-1 method includes "five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two shoes (a practical pair and a nice pair), and one swimsuit," though like the Times this formula allows the wiggle room to swap out accessories based on your destination and type of travel.

How many bras to pack for 2 weeks? ›

If you have unlimited suitcase space and don't want to do any laundry, a two-week trip means packing 14/2 = 7 bras and at least 14 pairs of underwear. That consumes a lot of valuable suitcase space! To reduce the number of pieces that need to be packed, simply commit to doing laundry on the road.

How not to pack too much for vacation? ›

You can pack more efficiently by either rolling your clothes individually or packing everything into a bundle. Rewear your clothing more than once, use travel-sized toiletries, and avoid packing a suitcase. Take a rollaboard or carry-on bag instead.

How much should I pack for a 7 day vacation? ›

Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. The list should be adjusted to suit your needs.

What have I forgotten to pack? ›

18 Most Forgotten Holiday Essentials When Packing
  • Padlock. You never know when you might need one – for your backpack on a crowded bus or street, for your suitcase, for leaving luggage in a locker etc.
  • Extra memory card. ...
  • Prescriptions/Medication. ...
  • Brush/Comb. ...
  • Toothbrush. ...
  • Travel Adapter. ...
  • Cash. ...
  • International SIM card.

What is not allowed in a carry-on bag? ›

Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

What to carry and what not to carry in an international flight? ›

Personal items
ItemsAllowed in hand baggage?Allowed in hold baggage?
Non-safety matchesnono
Fireworks, flares and other pyrotechnics, including party poppers and toy capsnono
Cigarette lighterno (but you can put a lighter in a plastic liquids bag and keep it on your person)no
Contact lens solutionyes (up to 100ml)yes
16 more rows

How many pants for a 5 day trip? ›

For a 5 day vacation, you will want to bring 2-3 pairs of shorts or pants, 3-4 tops, a light jacket (or a heavy jacket, depending on where you are traveling), and 1 formal outfit if you are planning on attending a nice restaurant or event. If you are going to the beach, pack 2-3 swimsuits/trunks.

How much money should you have for a 5 day trip? ›

How much cash do you need on vacation? You should have roughly $50 to $100 per person every day of your trip.

How many clothes for a 10 day trip? ›

How many clothes are required for a 10-day trip? Follow the 5-4-3-2-1 packing trick, where you pack five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, three pairs of shoes, two swimsuits, two bags, and one of each of a few miscellaneous accessories.

How many clothes for a 30 day trip? ›

For a month long trip five to seven shirts of light, easily-foldable material is the perfect number. If you are travelling in the summer we would recommend packing three or four tee shirts and one or two vest tops.

How many clothes for a 4 week trip? ›

Consider the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule

You may not need all of it (pack even less if you can), but this would get you through six days before you have to do laundry. No matter how long your trip is, try to limit yourself to no more than seven days' worth of clothing.

When should you start packing for a one month trip? ›

I like to do a dry run pack about 2 weeks prior to departure. This ensures that everything you want to bring will fit in your luggage and make sure your bag isn't over weight (here are my tricks for dropping your bag's weight).

References

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