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Safeguard Your Documents!  Make copies of all your travel documents.  Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative and carry the other separately from your original documents.  Also take a photograph of your travel documents with your phone to have an electronic copy.

• Passport:  Check your passport expiration dates as soon as you start planning a trip, and remember passports issued to children under 16 are only valid for only five years.  Some countries – including most of Europe – will require that your passport expiration date is at least six months away.  If you need a new passport, apply  early to allow for delays; click here for passport information.
• Visas:  Check with the embassy of your destination regarding visa requirements.
• Medications:  Some prescription drugs (including narcotics) and some U.S. over-the-counter medications are illegal in other countries. Check with the  embassy of your destination(s)  about regulations and documentation before you travel.
• Consent for Travel with Minors:  If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written consent from the other parent. Check with the  embassy of your foreign destination  before traveling to see what you may need.
• International Driving Permit:  Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license, but most accept an  International Driving Permit  (IDP). You may also need supplemental auto insurance. Read more about  driving and road safety abroad before you go.

Importance of Travel Insurance

• The U.S. government does not provide insurance for U.S. citizens overseas. We do not pay medical bills or unexpected costs. We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance before you travel to cover emergency medical care, either as part of or separate from trip cancellation insurance.
• Health Insurance: Medical facilities and providers abroad may require cash up front and may not accept U.S. insurance plans.  U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not provide coverage outside the United States.  Check your health care policy to see if it will cover you overseas.  If not, consider buying  supplemental insurance .  Make sure the insurance you purchase covers any special medical needs or risks you anticipate on your trip.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation:  Evacuation for medical treatment can cost more than $100,000.  You should strongly consider purchasing  medical evacuation insurance  in case of emergency overseas.

Get Informed

• Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) :  Enroll at  step.state.gov  to receive travel and security updates about your destination, and to help us reach you in an emergency.
• Safety and Security Information:  Read the Travel Advisory and Alerts for the countries you will be visiting at  travel.state.gov/destination .
• Crisis Planning:  Read  Crisis Abroad: Be Ready
• Health Precautions:  Read  Your Health Abroad  and check out recommendations for vaccinations and other health considerations from the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)  and  World Health Organization (WHO) . 
• Money Matters:  Before going abroad, notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel, and check exchange rates. For information about using cash, debit/credit cards, and ATMs overseas, read the country information page for your  destination .
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Every traveler is unique. Learn more before you travel.

Other Information for U.S. Citizen Travelers

• Information for Travel Agents
• Travel to High-Risk Areas
• Traveling with firearms
• Traveling with a pet
• Travel during tropical storm season
• FBI Safety and Security Information for U.S. Students Traveling Abroad
• Customs and import restrictions
• Global Entry
• TSA Pre-check

Emergency Assistance

Sometimes, in spite of careful planning, things still go wrong during a trip abroad.  Contact the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate  overseas or our Washington, D. C. office ( 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 ).

The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear on or are linked to the above page. Inclusion of private groups on this page is in no way an endorsement by the Department or the U.S. government. The order in which names appear has no significance. The Department is not in a position to vouch for the information.

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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3245 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

General packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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Packing for international travel can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the destination’s climate and culture. Even if you manage to bring everything you need, you could end up overpacking and lugging around a heavy suitcase.

To help make your packing experience easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive international travel packing checklist. Just remember to adjust the items on this list based on any specific requirements for your destination and the length of your stay.

The 9 Essentials That Should Always Be On Your International Travel Packing List

• Identification documents: passport, ID card, driver’s license, documents for your children, etc.
• Country-specific documents: visa, vaccination certificate, health forms
• Travel documents: boarding pass, booking confirmations, travel insurance
• Cash: local currency
• Medication: essential over-the-counter and prescription
• Clothing : enough to cover your whole stay
• Extreme weather gear : sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain jacket, cold-weather boots, etc.
• A bag of essential toiletries : shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant
• Electronics gear: country-specific adapters and chargers for your phone, tablet, laptop, etc.

Our Ultimate International Travel Packing Checklist for Men and Women

To download a condensed, free PDF version of our ultimate international travel packing list, click here .

• Electronics

Accessories

Miscellaneous

Some other items that you might need when traveling with toddlers and young children.

When traveling alone or as an adult couple, it’s generally possible to get by with the essentials. However, if you’re traveling with toddlers or young children, there are a few additional items that you should consider bringing.

• Baby food & formula
• Baby monitor
• Diapers and disposable diaper bags
• Toys & books
• Travel crib

Toiletries in Your Hand Luggage Must Follow the 3-1-1 Rule

If you’re bringing your own toiletries in your hand luggage, be sure to follow the 3-1-1 rule . This means your toiletry bag must contain no more than 3.4oz (100ml) containers, must be sealed in a 1-quart (1L) clear, plastic, zip-top bag, and each passenger can only bring one bag. This rule applies to liquids, gels, pastes, creams, and aerosols.

The Rules for Traveling With Electronics

The rules for traveling with electronics depend on the airline, country, and airport that you’re flying to and from.

When traveling to or from the U.S ., for example, you should be aware of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) rules for electronics. These rules require that all electronics larger than a smartphone must be taken out of your carry-on bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening . This includes laptops, tablets, and e-readers.

It’s also important to note that some countries have restrictions on the type of electronics that you can bring into the country. For example, many countries, including China and Brazil, prohibit the import of certain electronics, like iPhones and iPads, and require you to declare these upon arrival.

Certain countries have restrictions around lithium batteries as well . This means you won ‘t be able to bring batteries with more than 100 watt – hours in your carry – on or checked luggage . To check the watt – hours of your batteries , check the label on the battery or the device itself .

Finally , you should be aware that some countries, such as South Africa and India, require you to register your laptop and other electronic devices with customs when you arrive . This is due to the increasing number of laptop thefts and other electronics – related crimes in those countries .

Unfortunately , there is no one – size – fits – all answer when it comes to traveling with electronics , so make sure to do your research before you go .

Don’t Forget the Size and Weight Restrictions for Your Baggage

Underseat bags.

• Must not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 17 lbs (8kg) when combined with the weight of your carry-on

Carry-on bags

• Must not be larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 22 lbs (10kg)

Checked bags

• Must not be larger than 62 linear inches (157 cm)
• Cannot exceed 50 lbs (23kg)

No matter what size or weight restrictions you have, it’s important to make sure you pack smartly and efficiently . To do this, try to use packing cubes and consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This will help you maximize the amount of space in your luggage, so you can bring all the essentials without having to worry about the size or weight limits.

Which Items You’ll Need to Remove When Going Through Security

When you’re getting ready to go through security, there are a few items that you’ll need to remove from your carry-on bag and person. These include:

• Laptops and tablets
• All electronics larger than a smartphone
• Metal jewelry
• All liquids, gels, and aerosols
• Belts and other accessories

If you have any food items in your carry-on, you may also be asked to remove them for inspection.

It’s also important to note that some countries, such as the U.S., require you to remove your laptop, tablet, and other electronics from your bag even if you’re not checking them through security.

Which Items You Should Pack In Your Personal Item, Carry-On, and Checked Luggage

When traveling, it’s important to know which items you should pack in each type of luggage, as this will help you stay organized and minimize the amount of time you spend at the security checkpoint . Here is a quick breakdown of what should go in your personal item, carry-on, and checked luggage:

Personal Item

• Travel documents

Checked Luggage

As a general rule, it’s best to keep all valuables, medications, and important documents with you in your personal item and carry-on. This will ensure that you always have access to these items and that they remain safe.

Which Items You’re Allowed to Take for Free in Addition to Hand Luggage

When traveling, you’re usually allowed to take a few items for free in addition to your hand luggage. This typically includes a personal item, such as a laptop bag, a purse, or a briefcase, as well as a jacket or coat.

However, some airlines may limit the number of items you can bring for free, so it’s best to check your airline’s policy before you travel.

Tips on How to Save Space When Packing for an International Vacation

Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to end up overpacking or lugging around a heavy suitcase. To make your packing experience easier, here are a few tips on how to save space when packing for an international vacation:

1. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help you save a lot of space in your suitcase.

2. Pack Lightweight, Versatile Clothes

Bringing lightweight and versatile clothes will help you save space and minimize the amount of clothes you need to pack.

3. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organized and maximize the amount of space in your luggage.

4. Wear Your Bulkiest Clothes

If you’re traveling to a cold destination, wear your bulkiest clothes, such as your winter coat, on the plane. This will help you save space in your suitcase.

5. Leave Some Space for Souvenirs

Make sure to leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs, as this will help you avoid having to buy an additional bag to bring them home.

6. Pack Multi-Purpose Items

Bringing items that serve multiple purposes, such as a scarf that can also be used as a blanket, will help you save space and avoid having to bring multiple items for the same purpose.

7. Invest in a Lightweight Suitcase

Investing in a lightweight suitcase can help you save space and make it easier to carry your luggage.

Don’t Bring These Prohibited Items

When traveling internationally, you should be aware of the items that are prohibited on planes and in certain countries. These items include:

• Flammable and combustible liquids
• Sharp objects
• Electronic cigarettes
• Hoverboards

Make sure to check your destination’s customs regulations and the airline’s policy before you pack, as some countries and airlines may have additional restrictions.

Don’t Forget These Long-Haul Essentials for a Comfortable Flight

Taking a long-haul flight can be tiring and uncomfortable, so it’s important to make sure you bring the essentials to ensure a comfortable flight. Here are a few items you should bring on a long-haul flight:

• Neck pillow
• Water bottle
• Travel blanket
• Compression socks
• Entertainment (books, movies, music, etc.)
• Disinfecting wipes

Many of these will be provided by the airline, but they may not be up to your standards, so it’s always best to bring your own.

What to Look Out for When Shopping for New, Sturdy Luggage

When shopping for new luggage, you should look for a few key features to ensure you get a sturdy and reliable suitcase. Here are a few tips on what to look out for:

While hardside luggage made from ABS is likely to be the cheapest on the market, it’s also the most prone to damage. If you’re looking for a suitcase that will last, opt for a polycarbonate or aluminum piece. If you prefer softside luggage, go for a high-denier nylon or polyester piece.

Read more:  The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Materials

Most hardside luggage is fitted with spinner wheels, which are great for maneuverability. However, take a look at the wheels to make sure they’re durable and have quality bearings. For softside luggage, in-line wheels provide excellent stability and can be rolled along almost any surface.

Make sure the handle is adjustable and sturdy. Ergonomically designed handles place the least strain on your wrists as you wheel your suitcase. You should also ensure that your suitcase has carry handles so it can be lifted with ease when needed.

Zippers & Locks

Opt for a piece with good-quality zippers and an integrated TSA lock. YKK zippers are considered the best on the market.

Many manufacturers offer a limited warranty that covers any defects in the material and workmanship. Make sure you read the warranty carefully and check the length of the coverage before you make your purchase.

The weight of a suitcase is largely dependent on the materials used to make the piece, and generally speaking, hardside suitcases usually weigh more than softside suitcases. If you’re considering a hardside suitcase, opt for one made from polycarbonate or ABS, as these are the lightest materials on the market. For softside luggage, nylon and polyester are the lightest materials.

Read More:  How Much Does an Empty Suitcase Weigh on Average?

Final Words

Packing for an international trip can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that anything you forget will likely be available wherever you’re traveling.

By following this international travel packing checklist and the tips provided, you can make sure you have everything you need for your trip without having to lug around a heavy suitcase.

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The Documents You Need to Travel Abroad Now

The pandemic has created a whole new checklist of what you should bring on your trip. Here’s the essential paperwork you need to have in your bag.

• Share full article

By Lauren Sloss

While international travel is not impossible this holiday season, particularly if you’re vaccinated, the rise of the Omicron variant promises to make it much more complicated .

Assuming you are traveling to a country open to nonessential travel, the vaccine and testing documentation required for entry could range from nothing (Mexico) to detailed and numerous (Norway, and many others). Before booking, you can research online what you’ll need — on a running list from The New York Times here , or the websites of various airlines, the C.D.C ., the U.S. State Department or that of your destination’s government — but be prepared to recheck requirements in the days leading up to your departure, in case rules have changed.

Here are the types of documentation that many destinations now require from U.S. travelers. As in prepandemic times, make physical copies of everything and if you have digital versions, organize them in an accessible place on your phone. Keep them handy, too, as you will be asked for your documents multiple times during your journey.

Proof of vaccination

No matter your destination, no matter what requirements it has for proving you are vaccinated against the coronavirus, it’s smart to bring your physical, C.D.C.-issued vaccine card with you, along with digital photos of your card and paper photocopies. You might not need it — be sure to store it safely — but don’t assume that a U.S.-based digital passport or QR code is acceptable. For example, your physical C.D.C. card will be accepted in France and the United Kingdom; the latter, however, also accepts certain state-issued digital health apps for entry , like California’s Vaccine Record and New York’s Excelsior Pass . And remember to check what vaccines are accepted at your destination.

A completed locator form

Some destinations, including the United Kingdom and certain European Union countries , require travelers to complete a digital passenger locator form before entering the country (you must submit the U.K. form in the 48 hours before you arrive in the country), to help with contact tracing. In addition to your travel information, vaccination status and contact information, the form may ask for your address in the country, and, in the U.K, confirmation of scheduled coronavirus tests that you need to take after arrival. With its locator form, Croatia asks for proof of paid accommodation, and if you’re traveling to Canada, you will need to download and submit information using the ArriveCan mobile app within 72 hours before your arrival.

Coronavirus test results

More countries now require proof of a negative test, often in addition to proof of vaccination. Depending on where you are going, some countries require P.C.R. tests, while others allow rapid antigen tests. The timing requirement of your test might ask for results between 24 or 72 hours before your arrival, or one to three days. Take Croatia again: The country requires a negative P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test within 48; if you have neither, you’ll be required to test upon arrival at your own cost and quarantine until you receive negative results. Rules for unvaccinated children vary widely by country and age, too — when entering Denmark , fully vaccinated adults or children under 16 do not need proof of a negative test, while 16- and 17-year-olds must have proof of a negative test to enter. Again, have the results in both digital and physical form.

Mask mandates too vary by country and maybe localities, but you will most certainly need masks in airports, on your flight — and if you are going to most places in Europe and the U.K. , for indoor activities like dining. And rather than hoping your cloth mask will have you covered, come prepared with surgical masks and N95s as well. For example, you need N95s,KN95s or FFP2 to ride public transport in Germany .

Proof of insurance

Not only is it a good idea to check your health-insurance policies if you get sick abroad, you should research whether proof of health or travel insurance is needed at your destination. While Egypt , Jordan and many Caribbean nations require proof of health insurance, travelers to Chile , in addition to proof of vaccination and a negative test, must also show “proof of travel medical insurance that covers at least $30,000.” For unvaccinated travelers, Costa Rica requires insurance that covers any Covid-related costs, including but not exclusive to illness.

With minors, proof of relationship

If you are traveling with children, particularly as a single parent or if your child will be traveling with other relatives, Erika Richter, director of communications of the American Society of Travel Advisors, strongly recommends having a child consent form and a proof of relationship, like a birth certificate or court document, in addition to the child’s passport.

Speaking of passports …

Confirm that your passport and any required visas are valid. “Your passport should have an expiration date of at least six months from your return date,” said Alexis Bowen, a co-founder of the travel company elsewhere .

Test for your return trip

All travelers, vaccinated or not, wishing to fly into the United States from abroad are currently required to show proof of a negative coronavirus test — specifically, a rapid antigen or P.C.R. test — taken within one day of their flight. Check whether your final stop before flying has testing centers or pharmacies with approved tests, or consider consulting local connections or the hotel concierge. You can also bring F.D.A.-approved at-home tests with you. Those tests need to be supervised, meaning you’ll need Wi-Fi and an online doctor’s appointment. Finally, prepare to sign a C.D.C.-required attestation either in advance or at the airport before returning.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list for 2021 .

An earlier version of this article omitted a kind of mask that is acceptable to use on public transport in Germany. FFP2 masks are also acceptable, not just N95 and KN95 masks. 

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

International travel essentials you should never travel without – checklist.

Heading on an international trip and not sure what to pack? Obviously your packing list will vary by your destination, but there are several travel essentials that you’ll want to bring with you on EVERY international trip, no matter the destination. Here’s my international travel essentials checklist of items to bring — see printable checklist at the end of the post:

14 Essential Things to Bring on EVERY International Trip - International Travel Checklist

1. passport + travel documents.

Make sure you have your passport and all travel documents, including:

• Your boarding pass
• Confirmation of where you’ll be staying (customs forms often ask for the address)
• Visa, if needed (check which countries require a Visa for Americans here )
• Insurance (both regular health and travel insurance )

2. Copy of ALL DOCUMENTS - International Travel Essentials

I ALWAYS make a copy or two of my passport, Driver’s License, and Visa before going on any trip, and take photos of everything on my phone. It’s a good idea to keep one in your carry-on and another in your luggage just in case anything ever got lost. I also always make sure to have my Known Traveler Number (KTN) written down somewhere in case I need it – I wrote it in my passport book.

You May Also Like: 11 Thing to Know Before Traveling Internationally

3. Cash + Credit Cards

It’s always a good idea to travel with some cash and at least two credit or debit cards just in case one gets lost of stolen. I keep one card in my purse and the other back in the room or in a separate bag.

TRAVEL TIP: Make sure you alert your bank that you will be traveling BEFORE you go. It’s a nightmare having your card frozen because your bank sees “suspicious” charges from another county.

4. Copy of Emergency Contact Info

Make copies of your emergency contact’s info and keep it in your luggage and carry-on. It is also a good idea to give copies of your itinerary to your emergency contact, just so they know where you’re supposed to be and when.

5. Phone + Portable Charger

Obviously you’ll want to bring your phone whenever traveling internationally (or literally any other time you leave the house, let’s be honest)! I also bring an extra battery pack too, you’d hate to end up with a dead phone in a foreign place.

TRAVEL TIP: Check out these 24 apps every traveler should have on their phone .

6. Universal Plug Adapter - International Travel Essentials

Save yourself some money in the long run and buy a universal plug adapter that will work in any country. This one is well-reviewed and under $20 on Amazon.

7. Hand Sanitizer/Wipes

I think now more than ever people are aware of germs. To help prevent you from getting sick and spreading germs, always keep a bottle of hand sanitizer or wipes with you when traveling. 

You Might Also Like:  How to Stay Healthy While Traveling

8. Medications + Basic First Aid

Whenever I travel, In addition to my prescribed medications, I like to bring a small supply of basic medications just in case you need them or they are not readily available wherever you are traveling to (try finding Benadryl in the middle of Croatia ). I personally bring:

• something to help me sleep like  Benadryl ,  ZzzQuil , or  melatonin
• Emergen-C  or  Airborne
• Tums ,  Pepto ,   Immodium , etc
• dry eye relief eye drops
• a couple of  bandaids

TRAVEL TIP: Instead of bringing full bottles, use a travel pill organizer to save room in your luggage by bringing only what you need! You can use a sharpie to label what everything is on the cover.

9. TSA Approved Lock

Having a TSA Approved lock not only keeps your stuff safe, it may come in handy more than you realize. It can be used to secure a purse or bag to a chair at a restaurant to prevent theft. If you want to be extra cautious, lock up your suitcase and secure it to something sturdy anytime you leave your hotel room.

10. Lightweight Sweater or Jacket or Blanket

I always have a lightweight sweater or blanket in my carry-on no matter where I’m flying to (even a  tropical beach vacation ) in case it gets cold on the plane or in the airport!

You May Also Like: List of the Best Travel Pillows

11. Noise Canceling Headphones - Must-Have International Travel Essentials

I have said this in so many post, and I’ll say it again… Noise Canceling Headphones are SO WORTH IT. Yes, they are expensive, but I swear they make a huge difference and are worth the cost if you travel often.

12. Water Bottle

Water is obviously important! Stay hydrated on your trip and save money by bringing your own water bottle.  Vacuum insulated water bottles   are great because they doesn’t “sweat” and keep water cold for a long time!

13. Pen + Paper

You may not use a pen often, but you still have to fill out most customs paperwork by hand, so stick a pen or two in your carry-on. I like to bring a small journal with me as well.

14. Ziplock Bags

You’d be surprised how often Ziplock bags come in handy! They don’t take up any space, so pack a couple in your suitcase.

Here is a link to the International Travel Essentials Checklist in a Google Doc (seen below). You can “Create a Copy” and customize the list for yourself and print it!

What do you always bring when traveling internationally? Share by commenting below or sending me a DM on Instagram .  Happy travels! 

You Might Also Like:

What to Know Before Traveling Internationally – 11 Must-Know Things

Travel Safety Tips – How to Stay Safe While Traveling

13 Must-Have Travel Beauty Products You Should Bring On Every Trip

Carry-On Essentials: How to Survive an International Flight

Travel Insurance, Is It Really Worth it?

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling During COVID

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I had only few problems with travelling. I think it is very important to stay safe while traveling, during my last travel in Europe I had a problem with my date while using Wi-Fi a lot of my data from my Phone and Laptop where stolen. I think you should use VPN while traveling. Some VPN are free and worth using! https://howtogetavpn.com

There are rough spots, like bumps and steep roads, that you have to compensate for when making turns. Some platforms are also more narrow and require precise time synchronization to align properly. Drift Boss

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30 Items You Need To Pack For International Travel

T ravelling internationally can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. One crucial aspect of preparing for an international trip is packing all the necessary items to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or embarking on your first international adventure, this comprehensive packing checklist will help you stays organized and have everything you need at your fingertips. From travel documents to clothing, electronics, toiletries, and more, we've got you covered. Get ready to pack like a pro and make your international travels hassle-free!

What To Pack For International Travel

Preparing for international travel can feel like a daunting task, and packing can be one of the most challenging aspects. The key to a successful and stress-free trip is by packing strategically and bringing the essentials. This ultimate travel packing checklist covers all your essential items, including travel documents, clothing, electronics, toiletries, and more. By following this guide and tailoring it to your specific needs and destination requirements, you can ensure that you're well-prepared and packed for your international adventure!

Essential Travel Documents

As you embark on your international journey, it's essential to have all the necessary travel documents in order. These include:

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and has enough blank pages for stamps. Keep it in a secure and easily accessible place.

Research visa requirements for your destination and obtain them well in advance. Some countries require visas for entry, while others offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free travel. Gather all the necessary documents for your visa application, such as photographs, filled-out application forms, and supporting documents like proof of accommodation and financial resources.

Travel itinerary and boarding pass

Keep a printed or digital copy of your travel itinerary and boarding pass for easy access. These documents may be required for immigration and customs purposes. Print multiple copies and store them in different bags or devices to ensure you have backups in case of loss or theft.

Copy of important documents

Make photocopies or scan important documents such as your passport, visa, travel insurance, and contact information. Keep them separate from the originals in case of loss or theft. Additionally, upload digital copies to cloud storage or email them to yourself for easy retrieval in case of emergencies.

International driver's license

If you plan on driving during your international trip, check the requirements for obtaining an international driver's license. Some countries recognize your regular driver's license, while others require an international one. Apply for your international driver's license before your trip to avoid any last-minute complications.

It’s important to know what can you bring on a plane if you are an international traveler. Because there are lots of items that are prohibited by TSA, it’s better to check first than sorry later.

Luggage and Bags

Choosing the right luggage and bags for your international trip can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Consider the following items:

Sturdy travel bag

Opt for a durable suitcase or backpack that is suitable for your destination and travel style. Look for features like wheels, proper compartments, and sturdy handles. Consider the size restrictions of airlines if you're planning to carry your bag on board.

Carry a lightweight bag for daily essentials such as a small backpack or crossbody bag. This bag can be useful for day trips, sightseeing, and carrying your personal items. Make sure it's comfortable to wear and has enough pockets to keep your belongings organized.

Packing techniques

Maximize space and organization by rolling your clothes, using packing cubes, and separating items into categories. This will help optimize the space in your luggage, minimize wrinkles, and make it easier to locate specific items. Pack items that you'll need immediately upon arrival on top for easy access.

Locks and luggage tags

Use locks to secure your luggage during transit and prevent theft. Choose a TSA-approved lock for international travel, as it allows the security personnel to open it without damaging your suitcase. Attach luggage tags with your contact information to help identify your bags if they get lost. Include both your home address and your destination address.

Compression bags

Consider using compression bags to further save space in your luggage. These bags allow you to squeeze the air out of your clothes, reducing their volume. This can be especially useful if you're packing bulky items like jackets or sweaters.

If you are traveling with your daughter, then you can check this “ Best Travel Gifts For Teenager ”.

Electronics and Adapters

In today's digital age, electronics are an integral part of international travel. Don't forget the following essentials:

Universal travel adapter

Ensure you have a universal adapter that works with the outlets in your destination country. Different countries have different plug types and voltages, so a universal adapter will be compatible worldwide. Check whether you need an adapter with multiple USB ports or one that accepts grounded plugs.

Essential electronics

Consider the electronics you'll need, such as a laptop, smartphone, camera, and e-reader. Remember to pack charging cables and accessories specific to each device. If you plan to use your laptop extensively, consider bringing an extension cord or power strip to easily charge multiple devices at once.

Charging solutions

To keep your devices powered up, bring power banks or portable chargers, especially if you're going to be away from electrical outlets for extended periods. A multi-port USB charger can also be handy for charging multiple devices simultaneously. Determine the type of plug or outlet at your destination and carry the necessary chargers or voltage converters accordingly.

Entertainment devices

If you enjoy entertainment during your travels, pack items like headphones, a portable music player, or a tablet for movies and music. Download content in advance or subscribe to streaming services for offline access. Remember to carry earphones or headphones that are comfortable and provide good sound quality for a more enjoyable experience.

Adapters for car charging

If you plan on renting a car or taking a road trip, check whether you need specific adapters to charge your electronics within the vehicle. Some countries have different power outlets in their cars, which might require an adapter or a car charger with the appropriate plug type.

Clothing and Accessories

Packing appropriate clothing and accessories based on your destination and the local weather is crucial for comfort and style. Consider the following:

Clothing suitable for the destination

Research the weather conditions and cultural norms of your destination to determine the appropriate clothing to pack. Consider factors like temperature, humidity, and local customs. Check if there are any dress codes for religious sites or specific events you plan to attend.

Essentials for different climates

Depending on your destination, you may need to pack items such as swimwear, a rain jacket, or cold-weather gear like coats, gloves, and hats. Layering is key to adapting to changing weather conditions. Pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.

Shoes and accessories

Pack comfortable shoes suitable for the activities you plan to engage in, such as walking shoes, sandals, or formal shoes if needed. Consider the terrain and weather conditions to choose appropriate footwear. Accessories like hats, scarves, and sunglasses can enhance your outfits and protect you from the sun. Carry a lightweight, foldable bag for dirty shoes or laundry to keep your clean clothes separate.

Laundry supplies

If you're traveling for an extended period or prefer to travel light, consider packing a travel-sized detergent or laundry sheets to wash clothes during your trip. Some accommodations provide laundry facilities, while others may require you to hand wash your clothes. Having these supplies can help you maintain cleanliness and extend your wardrobe options.

Sleepwear and loungewear

Don't forget to pack comfortable sleepwear and loungewear for relaxing in your accommodation. Consider the climate and temperature of your destination to choose appropriate clothing for your comfort during the night, whether it's light pajamas or warmer sleepwear.

If you are interested in hiking, then it’s better to know “ Are Hiking Sticks Allowed In Carry On Luggage ”.

Toiletries and Medications

Maintaining personal hygiene and staying healthy while traveling is essential. Don't forget to pack the following:

Travel-sized toiletries and cosmetics

Opt for travel-sized versions of your regular toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and skincare products. Remember to comply with liquid restrictions if you're traveling with carry-on luggage. Place these items in a clear, resealable bag to easily pass through security checkpoints.

Prescription medications and necessary vaccinations

Ensure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medications you require. Check with your healthcare provider or a travel clinic regarding vaccinations recommended for your destination. Carry medications in their original containers and carry a copy of the prescription to avoid any issues at customs.

First aid kit essentials

Carry a basic first aid kit with items like band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription drugs. Include items specific to your needs, such as allergy medication or motion sickness pills. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures and emergency contact information at your destination.

Health insurance information

Carry a copy of your health insurance policy or travel insurance documents along with emergency contact numbers. Ensure you understand the coverage offered by your insurance and know how to seek medical assistance if needed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, carry a medical identification card or wear a medical alert bracelet.

Hand sanitizers and wipes

Keep travel-sized hand sanitizers or sanitizing wipes in your bag for quick and easy sanitization, especially when soap and water are not readily available. Use them before and after meals and after using public transportation or handling money. Alcohol-based sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content are recommended.

If you want to bring a tent on a plane , then you should check the rules about this item. Because bringing a tent depends on its size and airline policy.

Money and Financials

Managing your finances effectively while traveling internationally is crucial. Consider the following:

Cash and credit cards

Carry a mix of local currency and major credit cards for convenience and emergencies. Notify your bank or credit card provider about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage. Research the exchange rates and availability of ATMs in your destination to determine the best way to access money.

Travel Insurance

Protect yourself against unexpected events by purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. Review the policy terms and coverage limits before your trip. Understand the procedure for making claims and keep documentation of any incidents or accidents that occur during your trip.

Currency exchange

Research currency exchange options to ensure you obtain the best rates. Exchange currencies at reputable banks, or exchange offices, or use ATMs for local currency. Avoid exchanging money at airports or in tourist areas where rates may be less favorable. Familiarize yourself with the local currency and practice converting prices to your home currency for better budgeting.

Emergency funds

Keep a small amount of emergency cash hidden in a different location or in a secret pocket within your luggage for unexpected situations. It's always wise to have backup funds in case of loss, theft, or emergencies that require immediate cash payment. Divide your cash and cards between different bags or individuals for added security.

International travel can be an exciting and enriching experience, and packing the right items can contribute to a stress-free journey. This ultimate travel packing checklist covers all the essential items you need, from travel documents to clothing, electronics, toiletries, and more. Remember to research your destination's specific needs and take into account factors like weather, local customs, and transportation. By preparing in advance and organizing your belongings, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable international adventure. Don't forget to check off each item as you pack, and before you know it, you'll be ready to explore the world with all the essentials in tow!

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Packing can be one of the most frustrating elements of traveling. It doesn’t seem to matter if it is your first trip or your 10th, you always seem to miss something. We put together this ultimate packing list t o help you avoid those packing mistakes on your next trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect Packing Checklist

It is important to note that we compiled this ultimate travel packing list from 10 years of being professional travelers and bloggers. The goal of this packing list is to provide you with packing tips that will allow you to travel as efficiently and as comfortably as possible.

Travel Packing List for Luggage

Choosing what type of luggage you are going to use is a personal choice. We have used everything from hi-tech wheeled luggage to the latest backpacks. These are our top recommendations for checked luggage and carry-on luggage that is durable and lightweight.

Aluminum Roller – Known as the Rolls Royce of Luggage, Sterling Pacific is the top choice for luxury travelers, frequent fliers, and pilots. Its aluminum body is lightweight and the Italian leather handles give it extra points for style. Plus it has a lifetime warranty.

4 Wheeled Roller : Our yellow   Voyageur Check-In 28  turned heads. We didn’t worry about anyone mixing up our bags on the conveyor belt with our unique color and design. We found the 28-inch a bit too large, but you can order 24? or 26?. But with the large handle and ultra-quite 360° spinner wheels it was super easy to navigate through the airport

Carry-on Roller : Pro Carry-on with Laptop Pocket  by Level8. We felt so chic going through the airport with these hard cases and modern design and it was easy t o  pop out my laptop and documents right from the front hard case pocket when going through security.

Travel Backpack : If you are heading to destinations that are less developed, you are going to want a reliable backpack. You will want something in the 55L size and it should be comfortable on your back. We recommend the Osprey Fairpoint for men and the Osprey Fairview for women.

Rolling Duffel Bag Eagle Creek Rolling Duffel – Duffel bags are lightweight and durable for rough terrain. We like the separate compartments for hiking boots and how it can still look elegant when going into higher-end hotels.

Messenger Bag Travelon Antitheft Messenger Bag   – Deb carries an over-the-shoulder bag that crosses over her body. It keeps valuables secure from any snatch and grabs and the RFID component helps with any cyber security.

Carry-on Backpack – We’ve recently started using this carry-on backpack by Standard Luggage. The 3 in 1 bag turns into a backpack, suitcase, and shoulder bag to suit your needs. It meets all airline cabin rules which is a bonus and expand from 35 – 45 L. Plus, it’s water resistant to help keep valuable electronics and camera gear safe.

In addition to your luggage, you are going to want to keep everything organized.

Organizing Your Luggage

The first thing you will want to purchase will be packing cubes. These are lightweight compression bags that can help you separate your different types of clothes and keep your bag organized.

• Electronics Organizer
• Toiletry Bag
• Foldable Day Pack
• Document Organizer

Pro Tip: When checking in at the airport, take your computers out of your carry-on bag and put them in a collapsible tote bag (we fold it in the front pocket of our carry-on.) That way it lightens your load should you be weighed, but it doesn’t look like an extra piece of luggage.

Travel Packing Lists for Clothes

Packing clothes can be the most confusing and frustrating experiences of all. What we have learned over the past 10 years fo traveling is to have a base set of close, or capsule wardrobe , consisting of pieces that can be mixed and matched. We then add on from there depending on the length of the trip, the weather at the destination, and if we are going carry-on only or not.

Capsule Wardrobe for Women

• 1x Travel Skirt
• 1x Convertible Pants
• 2x Casual Pants (Usually 1 pair of leggings and 1 pair of pants that can be dressed up or down)
• 1x Long-Sleeved Shirt (I may add one depending on the cultural norms of the country I am visiting.)
• 4x Short-Sleeved Shirts or Blouses
• 1x Bathing Suit
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater or Fleece
• 4-6x Sports Bras and Underwear
• 1- Dress/Sundress
• 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 casual pair and 1 hiking pair)
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool Hiking Socks)

Travel Accessories for Her

• Buffs or headbands
• Rain Jacket or Outer Shell

Capsule Wardrobe for Men

• 1x Long Sleeve Shirt
• 3x Short Sleeve Shirts
• 2x Convertable Pants
• 1x Lightweight pant or jeans
• 2x Shorts (1 doubles as a bathing suit)
• 4-6 Exofficio Underwear
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool )
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater
• 2x Pairs of Shoes (1 casual and 1 for hiking)

Travel Accessories for Him

• Rain Jacket/Outer Shell

Pro Tip : If you are looking for a winter vacation planning list make sure to check out our How to Dress for Cold Weather article.

Checklist for Packing Toiletries

No travel packing list worth its weight would be complete without a comprehensive checklist for packing your toiletries. The first step is to make sure you have a good toiletry bag. We use this one as it is spacious, light, and hangs on the back of any door. To make it easier for you we have broken down to the travel essentials and the extras.

What to pack in your Toiletry Kit – Toiletry Essential Checklist

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and Conditioner (We transfer ours in GoToobes for easier storage)
• Tweezers and Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• Gold Bond Medicated Powder (for hot climates)
• Face/Body Moisturizer
• Chapstick/Lip Balm
• Prescription Medication

Toiletry Extras Checklist

• Hair products like hairspray and hair gel
• Travel Mirror
• Shaving Kit and razors
• Pegless Clothesline
• Travel Towel
• Hairbrush or Tangle Teezer
• Toothbrush Sanitizer

Read:  7 Tips for Stress-Free Travel  – here you will find a travel packing list of what we take in our care package on

Packing Checklist for Electronics

When it comes to electronics there are a lot of variables that will determine what you take and what you leave at home. In today’s day and age, there are certain things that everyone will want to take with them, and most of them will fit easily into your carry-on luggage. This checklist for packing electronics will give you the tools to bring back great memories and pack as light as possible.

• World Travel Adaptor : Each country that you visit may have a different plug configuration. This adaptor has you covered for every country.
• Belkin Mini Surge Protector : This is one piece of electronics we don’t leave home without. It protects your electronics against surges, has 3 plugs and 2 USB outlets for charging.
• iPhone/Smartphone: We use the iPhone 11 Pro. : Almost a necessity in today’s world, a smartphone can come in handy in so many ways. You can use it as a camera, a place to store your itineraries and keep friends and family up to date on Social Media.
• Travel Camera: Our recommendation would be the Sony RX100 VII : A good camera that fits in your pocket should be on everyone’s travel checklist. We recommend one that is small, lightweight, and can fit in your pocket.
• Noise Cancelling Headphones: If you want to get any sleep on a plane or bus ride these are essential. We use Beats Studio 3 but some people prefer earbuds. Whichever you choose make sure they are good quality to drown out all that noise.
• Portable Power Bank : The last thing you want to do is run out of power for your electronics when you are on the road. We carry a portable power back that keeps all of our electronics charged.
• Memory Cards : Always pack spare memory cards so you don’t run out of space when you want to capture that perfect shot.

Optional Electronics

• E-Reader or Kindle : If you are into books this is something you will want to add to your packing list.
• Laptop (This is for extended trips) : We carry one everywhere as that is our business. We recommend you pack one for longer trips or if you are into taking a lot of photos and videos like us. We recommend the MacBook Air for most people.
• External Hard Drive : Plan on taking a lot of videos and photos? Make sure you back them up so if something happens you don’t lose all your precious memories.
• Drone: We use the Mavic Pro 2 : Add a whole new element to your memories with a drone. We have been using one for years and love it.
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker : If you love music as much as we do you have to pack one of these for some tunes in your hotel room.
• Travel Tripod : Whether it be for selfies or night photography you will be glad you have on in your bag for those unique situations.

Are you into Travel Photography? Make sure to check out my Travel Photography Gear Guide and find out what is in my camera bag.

Packing List for Comfort

If there is one thing we have learned after all of these years is that a little comfort goes a long way. Especially when you are traveling on airplanes and busses. By adding these travel accessories to your packing list you can rest assured you will be comfortable . All of these have been tested on long plane, train and bus rides so you know that they work.

• Travel Pillow : After flying over 500,000 miles we have found the Trtl Neck travel pillow to be the best travel pillow out there. It is comfortable, gives great supports, and takes up almost no room in your bag.
• Eye Mask and Ear Plugs : No plane flight would be complete without these. The Pretty Care Eye mask is what we recommend. IT doesn’t rest on your eyes, is padded, and blocks out all light.
• Foldable Water Bottle : Staying hydrated on the plane is paramount to feeling refreshed when you arrive at your destination. WE fill this up after security so we always have water on the plane with us.
• Sarong : We have found that plane blankets just don’t cut it. That is why we always have a sarong with us on the plane if the air is a little too cold and you want to bundle up.
• Chapstick and hand moisturizer : WE all know how dry the plane gets. I pack this moisturizing kit so that my hands and face stay moisturized throughout the flight.
• Flight Flap Phone and Tablet Holder : WE discovered this last year and fell in love with it. No more sore necks from watching movies on your phone and tablet. This hangs on the back of the seat so you can watch in comfort.
• Travel Socks : I started using compression socks because they prevent DVT. I know more than a few people who have gotten DVT and this can be very serious. Compression socks help prevent blood clots and are highly recommended.

Packing List for First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential piece of travel gear. We have a n extensive first aid kit as we do a lot of adventures, but most people can get by with the essentials. You can buy pre-made first aid kits. This compact first aid kit  is a good start but it is just as easy to make one at home from your medicine cabinet. That way you only pack what you need.

• Prescription Medication – with a photocopy of our prescriptions
• Insect repellent 
• Advil or Tylenol for pain relief
• Gravol – for nausea  
• Benadryl and Claritin – For allergic reactions
• Allergy Eyedrops
• Imodium – for mild diarrhea
• Rehydration tablets and electrolyte tables – in case of dehydration or severe diarrhea.
• Topical Ointment like Polysporin or prescription Fucidin Cream – For cuts and scrapes
• Antiseptic spray – it’s important to clean cuts quickly, especially in tropical climates. 
• Moleskin – protects your skin from blisters.
• Thermometer
• Do you want to be prepared for every travel emergency? Check out our Ultimate First Aid Kit Packing List.

Travel Documents

Keeping your essential travel documents in order and organized can really take the stress out of travel. Using a travel organizer allows you to all the things you need in one convenient place.

• Passport and Visas- Make sure to have an electronic copy of both in case yours gets lost.
• Personal ID like a drivers license
• Bank cards, Credit Cards. Keep a contact number for your bank and credit card companies in your phone for emergencies.
• Emergency cash: We suggest 1 days worth of USD.
• Frequent Flier cards
• Travel Insurance documents, policy number , and contact information.
• Immunization records if needed.
• Itineraries or reservations- either printed out or stored in an app like Tripit.
• Boarding passes
• Emergency contact information.
• Guide book or maps- in either hard copy or digital copy.

Travel Security

Travel security is something we should all take seriously. Most problems tend to occur in bigger cities and in the form of pickpockets or petty theft. If you add these items to the travel packing list it might help deter would-be thieves.

• RFID Wallet: Protects against RFID Skimming, which is a form of theft using wireless transmitters to gain information to your credit and debit card identification chips. They can do it just by walking by.
• Money belt or neck wallet: We used these in the early days and they can be useful in the big cities where there are a lot of pickpockets.
• PacSafe Luggage Lock: This is perfect if you are staying in hostels or guesthouses.
• Luggage tracker: Give you peace of mind and lets you track your luggage if it gets lost.

More Anti-Theft Suggestions: If you want to get more in-depth about protecting your valuables when you travel check out THE BEST ANTI THEFT TRAVEL BAGS AND ACCESSORIES

Pre-Trip Checklist

Regardless of whether you are going on an extended trip or just a 2 week vacation there are a few things you are going to want to do before you board the plane. We have a complete pre-travel checklist that you can see here.

• Call your banks and credit card companies to tell them of your travel plans. This will avoid cards being flagged for purchases in another country.
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check to see if there are any Visa requirements
• Check Immunization requirements
• Leave flight and travel itineraries with a friend or relative.
• Check-in online or check flight information before leaving for the airport.

And there you have it. Our complete international travel packing list. We have done our best to answer all your travel packing questions and give you some packing tips that you can use on your next vacation. After years of traveling around the world, we hope that our extensive experience helps you when you are deciding what to pack for your next big adventure.

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Looking for more packing tips?

If you liked our ultimate travel packing list, why not check out some other great packing lists and travel tips travel that will be sure to help you out on your next trip.

• The Ultimate Camping Packing List : All the essentials you will need for your next camping trip.
• The Ultimate European Vacation Packing List : Great packing tips for your next trip to Europe.
• The Only Pre-Travel Checklist You Will Ever Need Everything you will need to do before you head to the airport for your next vacation.
• The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories : Tips and recommendations on what you need to stay organized while traveling.

You May Also Like These Helpful Travel Planners

• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
• Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?
• How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs
• Essential Tips for Essential Travel
• 10 Must Have Items to Make Air Travel Easy

What else would you add to our travel packing list? Add them in the comments below.

Disclosure:  The links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We receive affiliate commissions, but it’s no extra cost to you!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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29 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)”

This is very good content, images to perfect articles, hope you will share more in the future for everyone to see. Thank you very much.

Goig to Machu Pichu in Feb 2020.. 67 yrs young, not a regular hiker. Can you help me with packing list please? Also Amazon headwaters then to coast to relax by ocean for couple of days.

Hi I’m travelling from Australia to India for 2 weeks and will be visitng Dharamashala, Bodh Gaya and Dehli (2 nights)? I am 21yo, well I will be when I leave on 15 January. I am travelling with 7 others. I will be sharing a room with another lady, which I am pleased about as I can be prone to anxiety. Could you please help me with a packing list? Also do you think I should purchase a back pack that will protect my cards from being scanned? Do you recommend some type of money bag/sleeve that I can safely hold my money and passport? Thanks and sorry for all the questions, I don’t want to be caught out!

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

if you are only using a carry-on, you cannot take tweezers, or small scissors. They were taken away from me when I had them in a carry-on.

Actually I have affiliate links for both booking.com and lonely planet, but only on my guides section. The booking.com link works well, $15 for whenever somebody uses my link. On top of it, I do my own hotel bookings through my own link, so I’m actually giving myself a $15 discount 🙂 I only have these links on a very small section of my blog, totally agree with not doing too much of it early on. I’ve seen too many blogs that I previously enjoying selling out to advertising and turning into what looks like an online Casino site 🙂 Frank (bbqboy)

Great to hear Frank! Thanks for sharing.

Hey guys – we ended up going to the Bay and getting a couple of rolling duffels. Plus they had a special over the weekend and picked up bags that were usually $600 each (we went for the higher end models) at 50% off. So great tip about the Bay. Yes, I should be smarter about affiliate links on the blog. I’ve been a bit lazy on the monetization aspect… Frank

That’s fantastic! The Bay is great isn’t it? I love shopping there. Every time I go to the checkout, they always have a surprise discount. Even when it’s advertised on the item that it’s on sale, they seem to have another deeper discount at the desk. I think it’s one of the best places to shop for luggage. Best of luck with affiliates. It took us years to get around to it. You really need traffic to make it happen as you don’t make much off of each item. It’s base more on volume than sales. With Amazon it’s something like 4%. But it’s nice to get a bit of extra in the pockets if you can supply your readers with something of value.

Great! Have one right downtown next to the optometrist I’m seeing today. Thanks!

Perfect. Hope your eyes are doing well 🙂 The bay always has amazing deals on luggage.

I have seen so many of such type of blogs which contains these packing lists. But all of them possesses the same sort of things in the list. You have done such a wonderful job of adding some brilliant things, which can be very useful in any tour. I really appreciate your work.

Thank you for the kind words. We had a lot of fun putting it together. I just went through my bag and started making a list. It was a lot of work, but I think it’s worth it.

Wow…really great packing list especially with the images, never seen this before. It would be great if you can create a smartphone app 🙂

I was never a fan of these packing list posts. But we’ve been travelling non-stop now for a year and have had so many frustrations with our gear. Besides too much stuff (inefficient clothing mostly) our carrying bags (backpacks) just so damn heavy. Like you say, you can go light when travelling for a couple of weeks but when you’re gone for a year you’re going to be carrying more. We’ll be back in Canada next week and one of the many things we have to do during our month there is to re-organize our whole baggage/packing situation. I know I’m asking for a lot here – but any idea where in Montreal we can get some of those Travel bags? I’m not one to buy stuff online, have to see it with my own eyes. Informative post! Frank (bbqboy)

HI Frank, We bought our rolling duffles at The Bay, they always have amazing deals.

Some great ideas here, but I cant fathom traveling with this much stuff or luggage. I take much shorter trips, but do everything in a 20″ expandable rollaboard and daypack.

My concern with packing camera gear in a larger back is what if you are forced to check that bag? Even runway check the bag? My Crumpler camera bag and laptop fit in the daypack so even if I am forced to check the rollaboard, I have my breakables in the smaller bag to carry on the plane.

I do what Stuart mentioned in the above comment. I have a list for a carryon beach/adventure vacation; a list for the checked bag adventure/beach vacation; lists for carryon and checked city vacations and a business trip packing list. All of these can be altered for the weather/sports at the location.

There’s certainly some good kit on this list. A friend of mine swears that the best way to pack is to maintain lists for different types of destination (i.e. one for winter sports and another for beach vacations) and refer to them while packing. I still pack on an ad hoc basis! Enjoy your travels.

Some great tips here guys! I wish I had read one of these before I first hit the road seven years ago! – certainly would have changed what I took! These days, as long as I have my knife and my head torch; I know I’m pretty much ready for any adventure 🙂

Great article Dave and Deb! You guys are travel experts so if you like our clothes we know we’re doing something right. We look forward to continuing following your travels!

I like it so much. Each time I travel and expect long hour travel by plane, I make sure I have a jet lag cure like JetlagFX. It’s a great supplement and works well for me.

I just got a sample pack of JetlagFX, I can’t wait to try it out.

Great lists! As someone who packs light when I travel, I like how you categorized everything and stuck to the basics.

Thanks. We aren’t the lightest packers since we are on the road constantly, but for we find this list does everything we need without too much extraneous weight.

Great article!! i am a girl so is difficult for me to make a Packing list , but i really think that i have to make one the next trip because i always travel with a lot of stuff in my bags.

Wow, it really is a long list of things…. Bags, organizers, clothes, gears………. simply amazing By the way, Deb looks dashing on the image carrying luggage…

Holy moly, that is the motherload of packing lists. I’m bookmarking it for later. I’m particularly interested in your photography and electronics. I have only just started making enough money writing to even begin to think about traveling and writing full time, but I just don’t know where to begin. Thanks for this awesomely detailed post.

Great post! I need some organization in packing wisely when traveling. My favorite was the travel organizers. I probably would not need as much electronic gear as you have. My iPhone is sufficient enough for me when taking pictures. They come out pretty good. Some of your other ideas are great. We usually check on locations for laundry when traveling for any length of time. This too can cut down on the amount that you have to pack. The downside is that it may take up some of your time to do the laundry.

wow great information. i like this list for travel packing.

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Packing List – The Ultimate Guide [2024]

• December 27, 2023
• Travel Checklists

Have you ever found yourself staring at an empty suitcase, unsure of where to start when it comes to packing for your trip? We’ve all been there. Packing can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and a comprehensive packing list, it can become a breeze. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about creating the perfect packing list. From quick tips and facts to a detailed breakdown of essential items, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and make packing a stress-free experience!

Table of Contents

Quick answer, quick tips and facts, background: the art of packing, the ultimate packing list, choosing the right luggage, packing techniques, travel essentials, clothing and accessories, toiletries and personal care, electronics and gadgets, documents and money, health and safety, entertainment and comfort, miscellaneous, recommended links, reference links.

Creating a packing list is essential for a stress-free trip. It helps you stay organized, ensures you don’t forget any important items, and makes unpacking a breeze. Here are the key steps to creating the perfect packing list:

• Start with the essentials: passport, tickets, and money.
• Consider the weather and activities at your destination.
• Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
• Don’t forget toiletries, electronics, and travel documents.
• Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space.
• Double-check your list before you leave to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Now that you have a quick overview, let’s dive deeper into the world of packing and explore some quick tips and interesting facts.

• Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Fact: The average person only wears about 20% of the clothes they pack for a trip.
• Tip: Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
• Fact: Overpacking is a common mistake. Stick to the essentials and leave room for souvenirs.
• Tip: Use a packing checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
• Fact: The 5-4-3-2-1 packing rule is a popular method that helps you pack efficiently by limiting the number of items you bring.

Now that you have some quick tips and facts to keep in mind, let’s explore the background and history of packing to gain a deeper understanding of this essential travel skill.

Packing has been an integral part of travel for centuries. From the early explorers who packed their belongings in trunks to the modern-day traveler with a carry-on suitcase, the art of packing has evolved over time. In the past, packing was a meticulous process that required careful consideration of every item. Today, with the advent of lightweight luggage and travel accessories, packing has become more streamlined and efficient.

The goal of packing is to bring everything you need while minimizing the weight and bulk of your luggage. A well-packed suitcase can make your trip more enjoyable by reducing stress and ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. With the right approach and a comprehensive packing list, you can master the art of packing and become a travel pro.

Now that we have explored the background of packing, let’s dive into the ultimate packing list. We will cover everything from choosing the right luggage to packing techniques and essential items for your trip.

When it comes to choosing the right luggage, there are several factors to consider. The size, weight, durability, and functionality of your luggage can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind when selecting your luggage:

• Size: Consider the length of your trip and the amount of stuff you need to bring. A carry-on suitcase is ideal for short trips, while a larger suitcase may be necessary for longer journeys.
• Weight: Lightweight luggage is essential to avoid exceeding weight limits and to make it easier to maneuver through airports and train stations.
• Durability: Look for luggage made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. Hardshell suitcases offer better protection for fragile items.
• Functionality: Consider features like wheels, handles, and compartments that make it easier to organize and access your belongings.

Once you have chosen the right luggage, it’s time to master the art of packing. Let’s explore some packing techniques that will help you make the most of your available space.

Packing efficiently is all about maximizing space and minimizing wrinkles. Here are some packing techniques that will help you make the most of your available space:

• Rolling vs. Folding: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and minimize wrinkles. This technique works especially well for t-shirts, jeans, and other casual clothing items.
• Packing Cubes: Use packing cubes to organize your clothes and accessories. These lightweight organizers help you separate items and make it easier to find what you need.
• Compression Bags: Compression bags are a game-changer when it comes to maximizing space. These bags allow you to remove excess air, reducing the volume of your clothes and creating more room in your suitcase.
• Layering: Layering your clothes can help you save space and stay organized. Start with heavier items at the bottom and layer lighter items on top.
• Shoes and Accessories: Utilize the space inside your shoes by stuffing them with socks or small items. Use small bags or pouches to store accessories like jewelry, belts, and scarves.

By using these packing techniques, you can make the most of your available space and ensure that everything fits neatly in your suitcase. Now, let’s move on to the essential items you should include in your packing list.

When it comes to travel essentials, there are a few items that should always be at the top of your packing list. These items are essential for a smooth and stress-free trip. Here are the must-have travel essentials:

• Passport and Travel Documents: Your passport is the most important document when traveling internationally. Make sure to pack it in a secure and easily accessible location. Don’t forget to bring any necessary visas, travel insurance documents, and copies of important documents.
• Money and Credit Cards: Bring enough cash for your trip, as well as a credit card for emergencies. It’s also a good idea to have a small amount of local currency on hand for immediate expenses upon arrival.
• Travel Adapter: Depending on your destination, you may need a travel adapter to charge your electronic devices. Research the electrical outlets at your destination and pack the appropriate adapter.
• Portable Charger: A portable charger is a lifesaver when you’re on the go and need to charge your phone or other electronic devices. Make sure to fully charge it before your trip.
• Medications and First Aid Kit: If you take any prescription medications, make sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.

These travel essentials are the foundation of a well-prepared traveler. Make sure to pack them in a secure and easily accessible location in your luggage. Now, let’s move on to clothing and accessories.

When it comes to packing clothing and accessories, versatility is key. Choose items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Here are some essential clothing items to include in your packing list:

• Tops: Pack a mix of t-shirts, blouses, and sweaters that can be layered or worn on their own.
• Bottoms: Include a variety of pants, skirts, and shorts that can be dressed up or down.
• Dresses: Pack a few dresses that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions.
• Outerwear: Depending on the weather at your destination, pack a lightweight jacket, a sweater, or a coat.
• Shoes: Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes, as well as a dressier pair for evenings or special occasions. Don’t forget to pack socks and any necessary shoe accessories.
• Accessories: Include accessories like scarves, belts, and jewelry that can add variety to your outfits.

Remember to pack clothing items that are appropriate for the weather and activities at your destination. Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust to changing temperatures. Now, let’s move on to toiletries and personal care items.

Toiletries and personal care items are essential for maintaining hygiene and staying fresh during your trip. Here are some must-have toiletries to include in your packing list:

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Don’t forget to pack a toothbrush and toothpaste for maintaining oral hygiene.
• Shampoo and Conditioner: If you prefer to use your own shampoo and conditioner, make sure to pack travel-sized bottles or transfer them into travel containers.
• Body Wash or Soap: Bring a small bottle of body wash or a bar of soap for showering.
• Deodorant: Stay fresh throughout your trip by packing your favorite deodorant.
• Skincare Products: Include your essential skincare products like moisturizer, sunscreen, and lip balm.
• Haircare Products: If you have specific haircare needs, pack travel-sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and styling products.

Remember to pack these toiletries in travel-sized containers to comply with airline regulations. If you’re not sure what size is allowed, check with your airline before your trip. Now, let’s move on to electronics and gadgets.

In today’s digital age, electronics and gadgets have become essential travel companions. Here are some must-have electronics to include in your packing list:

• Phone and Charger: Your phone is a versatile tool that can be used for navigation, communication, and entertainment. Don’t forget to pack your charger and any necessary cables.
• Laptop or Tablet: If you need to work or stay connected during your trip, consider bringing a laptop or tablet.
• Camera: Capture your travel memories with a camera. Whether it’s a DSLR or a smartphone with a high-quality camera, make sure to pack the necessary accessories like memory cards and chargers.
• Headphones: Block out noise and enjoy your favorite music or podcasts with a pair of headphones.
• Portable Speaker: If you enjoy listening to music or podcasts with others, consider packing a portable speaker for shared entertainment.

Remember to pack these electronics in a secure and easily accessible location in your luggage. Now, let’s move on to documents and money.

When it comes to documents and money, it’s essential to keep them secure and easily accessible. Here are some key items to include in your packing list:

• Passport: Your passport is the most important travel document. Make sure to pack it in a secure and easily accessible location.
• Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, make sure to bring the necessary documents and contact information.
• Visas and ID Cards: If you require a visa for your destination, make sure to pack the necessary documents. Additionally, bring any ID cards that may be required for identification purposes.
• Cash and Credit Cards: Bring enough cash for your trip, as well as a credit card for emergencies. It’s also a good idea to have a small amount of local currency on hand for immediate expenses upon arrival.
• Copies of Important Documents: Make copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents. Keep these copies in a separate location from the originals.

By keeping your documents and money organized and secure, you can have peace of mind during your trip. Now, let’s move on to health and safety items.

Health and safety should always be a top priority when traveling. Here are some essential items to include in your packing list:

• First Aid Kit: Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
• Medications: If you take any prescription medications, make sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to refill your medication while abroad.
• Hand Sanitizer: Keep your hands clean and germ-free with a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer.
• Insect Repellent: Depending on your destination, you may need insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by packing a travel-sized bottle of sunscreen.

By including these health and safety items in your packing list, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Now, let’s move on to entertainment and comfort items.

To make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable, consider packing some entertainment and comfort items. Here are some suggestions:

• Books or E-Reader: If you enjoy reading, pack a book or an e-reader to keep yourself entertained during long flights or train rides.
• Travel Pillow and Blanket: Make your journey more comfortable by packing a travel pillow and a lightweight blanket.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: Block out light and noise with an eye mask and earplugs for a restful sleep during your trip.
• Travel Games or Playing Cards: If you’re traveling with family or friends, pack some travel games or playing cards for entertainment on the go.
• Snacks and Water Bottle: Bring some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and satisfied during your journey.

By including these entertainment and comfort items in your packing list, you can make your trip more enjoyable and relaxing. Now, let’s move on to miscellaneous items.

In addition to the essential items mentioned above, there are a few miscellaneous items that you may find useful during your trip. Here are some suggestions:

• Reusable Shopping Bag: Pack a reusable shopping bag for carrying groceries or souvenirs during your trip.
• Ziplock Bags: Bring a few ziplock bags for storing snacks, toiletries, or wet clothes.
• Travel Lock: Keep your belongings secure by packing a travel lock for your luggage.
• Travel Umbrella: Depending on the weather at your destination, consider packing a compact travel umbrella.
• Laundry Bag: Bring a small laundry bag to separate dirty clothes from clean ones.

By including these miscellaneous items in your packing list, you can be prepared for any situation that may arise during your trip. Now that we have covered the ultimate packing list, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions.

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing list?

The 5 4 3 2 1 packing list is a popular method that helps you pack efficiently by limiting the number of items you bring. It consists of:

• 5 Tops: Pack five tops that can be mixed and matched with different bottoms.
• 4 Bottoms: Include four bottoms that can be paired with different tops.
• 3 Dresses or Skirts: Pack three dresses or skirts that can be dressed up or down.
• 2 Shoes: Bring two pairs of shoes, one for walking and one for dressier occasions.
• 1 Outerwear: Include one lightweight jacket or sweater for layering.

This packing list provides enough variety for a week-long trip while keeping your luggage light and manageable.

Read more about “What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing list?”

What is a packing list?

A packing list is a comprehensive checklist of items that you need to pack for your trip. It helps you stay organized, ensures you don’t forget any important items, and makes unpacking a breeze. A well-prepared packing list takes into account the weather, activities, and duration of your trip.

Read more about “… How do I Make My Own Packing List? A Comprehensive Guide”

What is the 1 to 6 packing rule?

The 1 to 6 packing rule is a method that helps you pack efficiently by limiting the number of items you bring. It consists of:

• 1 Pair of Shoes: Bring one pair of comfortable shoes for walking.
• 2 Bottoms: Include two bottoms that can be mixed and matched with different tops.
• 3 Tops: Pack three tops that can be layered or worn on their own.
• 4 Undergarments: Bring four sets of underwear and socks.
• 5 Accessories: Include five accessories like scarves, belts, or jewelry.
• 6 Miscellaneous Items: Pack six miscellaneous items like toiletries, electronics, or travel documents.

This packing rule provides enough variety for a week-long trip while keeping your luggage light and manageable.

Read more about “The Ultimate Minimalist Packing List for 2 Weeks …”

How do you write a good packing list?

To write a good packing list, start by considering the weather, activities, and duration of your trip. Make a list of essential items like travel documents, money, and toiletries. Then, think about the clothing and accessories you will need based on the destination and planned activities. Consider versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Finally, don’t forget to include any specific items you may need, like electronics, medications, or comfort items.

By following these steps and using our comprehensive packing list as a guide, you can create a well-prepared packing list that ensures a stress-free trip.

Now that we have covered the frequently asked questions, let’s move on to the conclusion.

Read more about “… Aesthetic Packing List Template: Travel in Style and Organization!”

Packing for a trip can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and a comprehensive packing list, it can become a breeze. In this article, we have provided you with everything you need to know about creating the perfect packing list. From quick tips and facts to a detailed breakdown of essential items, we have covered it all.

Remember to start with the essentials like travel documents, money, and toiletries. Consider the weather and activities at your destination when choosing clothing and accessories. Use packing techniques like rolling your clothes and using packing cubes to maximize space. Don’t forget to pack electronics, medications, and comfort items to make your trip more enjoyable.

By following our expert advice and using our comprehensive packing list as a guide, you can pack like a pro and ensure a stress-free trip. So, start planning your next adventure and get ready to hit the road with confidence!

• Long-Term Travel Checklists
• Beach Vacation Checklists
• Family Vacation Checklists
• Adventure Travel Checklists
• 75 Must-Have Travel Essentials for Women in 2024
• How to Pack a Suitcase – The New York Times
• Packing Tips from Travel Experts – Travel + Leisure
• The Ultimate Packing List – SmarterTravel
• The Art of Packing – National Geographic
• Packing Tips and Tricks – Lonely Planet

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to start packing for your next adventure. Happy travels!

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Travel Tested Europe Travel Essentials: The Only Checklist You Need!

You’re planning a European trip and you need a Europe travel essentials checklist with all the travel-tested essentials for traveling to Europe so that you can have an amazing, stress-free trip. Well, good thing you landed exactly in this spot!

We all know planning a trip to Europe is a big deal and usually, it’s a bucket list travel goal getting checked off. The last thing anyone enjoys is the hassle of not having something they need!

The good news is I’ve traveled to Europe hundreds of times and along the way, I’ve made my fair share of Europe travel mistakes. But, they were all learning experiences! (Can you tell I’m a teacher?!)

So, I’ve put together everything I’ve learned in this ultimate guide of essentials for European travel so that you’re 10 steps ahead of the game before you even arrive at the airport.

Travel-Tested Europe Travel Essentials: The Only Checklist You Need!

You can fill countless suitcases ( spoiler: don’t do this) with whatever and however much you want but without the right things for your European adventure, a potential headache can steal all the fun from seeing the Eiffel Tower or Rome’s Colosseum.

So, let’s skip the headache and build your European travel checklist the right way!

Essentials for Traveling to Europe: The Fundamentals

When planning a trip to Europe, there are European travel necessities that fall into a few categories. Some are absolute musts while others are more personal or for comfort.

Let’s start with the fundamentals. After all, it doesn’t matter if you’ve packed the perfect outfits if you can’t get past airport security.

Whether you’re heading to Italy , Iceland , or Spain don’t leave home without using this guide as your Europe packing list!

Obvious, but a total deal breaker for international flights if there’s an issue with yours. Be sure it’s in good condition with no visible damage. Also, check that it has at least 2 pages with no stamps and 6+ months until its expiration date. I always keep my passport and important documents in this protective cover , but also for my sanity so I always know where they are! This passport case is great if there are multiple passports to store.

Driver’s License

If you’re renting a car, you will need to show this to pick up your vehicle. But even if you’re not, it’s smart to have another official form of identification with your photo on it in case something happens to your passport.

Maps for Driving & Getting Around

If you’re driving in Europe, download Google Maps for the area(s) where you’ll be driving before leaving home. From the Google Maps app, click on your name or initial in the top right corner. Select “Offline Maps.” Then, click on “Select Your Own Map” at the top. Highlight the area(s) where you need a map and download it. When you arrive at your European destination, you’ll be able to navigate in the car even without an internet connection. Similarly, the Maps.me app allows you to download maps to use offline. These maps can be especially great for when you’re out walking in a city because they show local shops, restaurants, walking paths, and more.

Using your debit card at a local ATM once you arrive is the savviest and most convenient way to get local currency at the best possible exchange rate. Also, debit cards typically have a Visa or MasterCard logo on them and require a PIN. In some cases, a purchase you need or want to make will require a card with a PIN like getting gas in a remote part of Iceland or buying entry tickets to a castle in Germany. ProTip: The Charles Schwab debit card refunds 100% of any ATM or withdrawal fees no matter where you are in the world. Don’t have an account? It’s free to set up. Plus, you can deposit a small amount into your newly created “travel account” to use for your trip. If your wallet gets stolen or you encounter any fraud, only this account with a small amount of money is at risk instead of your main bank account.

Travel Rewards Credit Card (with no foreign exchange fees)

For 95% (if not all) of your purchases in Europe from restaurants to shops, hotels, top sights, and museums can and should be made with a credit card. I recommend (and use myself!) a travel rewards credit card like this for every purchase possible for fraud protection (i.e. when that bowl you shipped from Tuscany never arrives) and for the best possible purchase exchange rate with no fee. ProTip: When making credit card purchases in Europe, you’ll be asked if you want to pay in Euros or U.S. dollars. Always choose Euros. The credit card processor is secretly charging you a convenience fee that’s baked into that seemingly helpful U.S. dollar conversion.

International Driver’s License

If you are renting a car in Europe, some countries like Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, and others require this document. The confusing part is car rental companies will let you rent your vehicle even without this document. You only discover that you have a problem (and possibly a hefty fine) should you be pulled over by local police. Apply through AAA , either at their nearest branch or by mail. It costs $20 + tax. You’ll also need 2 passport photos which they can take for you at the branch for a small added fee. The permit is good for a year and can potentially save you a lot of money if you get caught without it.

Travel Insurance

Important, especially if you don’t have a travel rewards credit card that offers at least some basic protections. But whether something happens before your trip and you need to cancel or you fall on some uneven cobblestone and break a wrist, you want to make sure you’re ok, as is the travel investment you made. Plus, most multi-day tours require that you show proof of travel insurance .

Photos/Copies of Important Documents & Travel Bookings

Take photos of your passport ( a must! ), driver’s license, credit cards, travel reservation confirmations, etc, and store them in a cloud-based place like Google Drive or Dropbox. If you lose anything, you can access the photo from any device with an internet connection. You can also print copies of flight, hotel room reservation(s), and activity bookings if it adds peace of mind.

And even though the things above will help you navigate all the logistics of international travel, don’t leave home without the Europe travel essentials you personally need for an incident-free trip.

Prescription Medications

Contact lenses + at least 1 extra pair, feminine hygiene products.

Ladies, whether you use this , this , these , or something else, be sure to take the personal items you need to be comfortable.

First Aid Kit

This does not need to be overly extensive. I typically pack tablets for headaches, stomach troubles, a cold, and in case of an allergy, some Benedryl. I also like to carry a few throat drops with me, even if just for a dry mouth or throat, and a couple of band-aids for cuts or a blister. You’ll find pharmacies everywhere you go in Europe with everything you’d find at your pharmacy in North America. The idea here is just to pack a few of these things to hold you over should you need to get to a pharmacy in Europe. For reference, my first aid kit for European travel fits into a small plastic sandwich baggie.

Must-Have Travel Europe Essentials

The next part of the list covers Europe travel essentials that are important to have whether you’re road-tripping in Ireland or sightseeing in Budapest.

These important travel items keep you safe, and connected and help make your travel days to, in, and from Europe smooth and hassle-free.

Portable Power Bank

Keep your cell phone charged and ready to go whether it’s to take photos or to use a navigation app as you explore a new European city. And, even though most do, don’t assume all airplanes have a charging port for your phone. This is especially true on inter-continental flights where shorter-haul planes are used to go from one European country to another. (It’s not a good feeling to arrive at your destination airport with a dead phone!) I bring this portable charger with me on every Europe trip. Fully charged, it can refill my phone’s battery dozens of times before needing to be recharged and it doesn’t take up much space at all in my bag.

Plug Adapter

You’ll need to have the right plug adapter(s) to plug your devices into European outlets. I have an older version of this plug adapter set that I have used to travel extensively throughout Europe and have never had a problem. The mini power strip is perfect for charging multiple devices at once. ProTip: If you’re going to multiple European countries, check the plug type for different countries. They aren’t all the same. Or pack a reliable universal travel adapter .

Luggage Trackers

If you’re checking a bag for your trip to Europe, Apple Airtags are great for keeping track of your luggage and can even help you locate your bag should the airline lose it. You need to have an iPhone to track the airtag. If you don’t have an apple device, try the Samsung SmartTag or Tile Mate.

Wire/Gadget Storage

You could choose a traditional wire organizer to manage cables, your portable battery, and other gadgets. They are extremely useful for storage and sanity! I also love these mesh packing squares . I’ve had the same set for years and they’re so versatile! I can use them for my cords, plug adapters, and portable charger. But they’re also great for just about any small, loose objects you need to pack. They keep everything together so you can find whatever you’re looking for quickly and without unpacking half your bag to find it!

SIM or eSIM Card

Staying connected is one of the most important travel necessities for Europe! European restaurants, cafes, shops, and hotels tend to have decent to good WiFi. However, free public Wifi isn’t the safest or most reliable way to connect your device to the internet. Not to mention, you probably still want a connected device even when you’re not in one of these places. For U.S. travelers, your phone’s wireless provider likely offers a travel pass. But these are typically very expensive (i.e. $10 a day!) and come with very limited amounts of data. Put another way, this isn’t a great option for staying connected while in Europe. The better option is to purchase a SIM card when you arrive at your destination. Most airports will have them available for sale, as will shops in most major cities. Even better is to buy an eSIM before you leave so it’s ready to go when you arrive. An eSIM comes with the added advantage of not needing to buy and install a physical card once you arrive. Either way, SIMs and eSIMs cost less and can be purchased in different data amounts depending on how much you’ll need. I use Holafly to purchase eSIMs when I travel. If you use code, THEGLOBETROTTINGTEACHER, you’ll get 5% off your purchase.

Luggage Locks

These durable locks are TSA-compatible so you can lock your checked bags. If they’re inspected, the TSA agent can unlock it and the lock will leave a red indicator letting you know your bag was inspected. Beyond that, these handy locks are perfect for backpacks and a variety of other bags whether you want added security in your hotel or you’ve stowed your bag in a luggage rack on an overnight European train.

Secure Money Storage

From the airport to full days of European strolling and sightseeing, you want something to keep your money and credit cards safe. Whether it’s a moneybelt , a neck wallet , an anti-theft bag , or a scarf with a hidden pocket , take some precautions to deter pickpockets. From Barcelona to Paris , would-be thieves are more opportunistic than anything. Be alert in touristy areas and on public transportation. (Direct eye contact works wonders to let someone know you’re paying attention.) Add extra layers of security to avoid looking like a target and it’s unlikely you’ll have any problems. ProTip: Only take 1-2 credit/debit cards and a little cash with you when you head out for a day of sightseeing. Extra money and credit cards, as well as your passport, will be safest locked in the hotel safe.

Travel Day Bag

You want a small bag or day pack that you can use to store your belongings and comfortably walk and sightsee. This has been my go-to daypack whether I’m hiking along the Slea Drive in Ireland or standing in awe as I stare at the Mosque-Cathedral in southern Spain . It’s compact and holds a lot more than it seems it would. I typically pack this inside my carry-on, which is also convenient later if I need an extra bag for souvenirs. For something a bit more fashion-minded, this messenger bag or this crossbody clutch are both stylish and functional. Plus, they both come with theft-protection.

Reusable Water Bottle

Most European countries have clean, drinkable tap water. While you should always check the countries you’re planning to visit, rest assured you can safely refill your water bottle in most places. I’ve used the fountains in Italian cities and while hiking in the Cinque Terre, as well as filled up while driving Iceland’s Diamond Circle. So, save money and reduce plastic waste with a reusable water bottle !

Flight Creature Comforts (a.k.a. Things to Keep you Comfortable!)

A long flight across the Atlantic Ocean can be uncomfortable depending on what type of flyer you are and where you’re seated on the plane. But the good news is that small comforts go a long way! You want to arrive as rested as possible so that on your first day in Europe you can last the full day and adjust to the time zone. Ear plugs, an eye mask , cozy warm travel socks , and a neck pillow can all help you sleep on long-haul flights. I also always have my travel-sized toothbrush with me so that I refresh in the morning before we land.

Entertainment

Whether you have a Kindle to read or you want to downloaded audiobooks, podcasts, music, or your favorite shows on your phone or laptop, plan to do this in advance. Anything that needs to be downloaded should be done before you leave home so you don’t use up data or rely on slow hotel wifi once you arrive in Europe. With these things set up on your electronic devices, you’ll be ready for that long train ride or just lazing away an afternoon at a cafe in Paris .

Europe Travel Packing: How to Pack for Europe

One of the essentials when traveling in Europe is to pack light.

If you’re like most people, you probably have at least a couple of European cities or areas on your travel itinerary. Dragging and lifting big, heavy suitcases from airports to hotels onto trains and along sidewalks is a stressful hassle that’s just not worth your energy.

So, let’s cut to the chase. You need a few important items to pack lightly, a sturdy piece of luggage, a carry-on bag, and packing cubes.

Rolling Suitcase

This is the rolling suitcase I’ve used for nearly all my trips to Europe over the past several years. And let me tell you, I’ve put this bag through the wringer! It’s proved its durability by being checked at countless airports and rolled through train stations all over Europe, as well as hauled in and out of hotels, metros, and more. Put any doubts aside about whether this piece of luggage can hold everything you’d need for a 2-week trip to Europe. I’ve done it numerous times and even stayed for up to 3 weeks without really needing to do a big batch of laundry. I’ve used a couple of other bags, too, if I’m taking a shorter trip. These honorable mentions go to this 19″ carry-on roller or this backpack which I’ve used for more outdoorsy European adventures.

Packing Cubes

These are the packing cubes that quite honestly I couldn’t live without. They are what makes the above suitcase possible. Depending on how I want to pack, I use 3-4 of these packing cubes to hold all my clothes. The magic comes from the compression. Once you’ve rolled everything inside and zipped the cube, the 2nd zipper compresses the cube down to half its size. If necessary, you can smooth out any lumps by pressing on the cube to even things out. ProTip: Think about how you’ll manage dirty clothes. You could bring an extra packing cube or a dirty laundry bag. You could also shift clothes around as you travel, moving dirty clothes to a single packing cube and clean clothes into all the others.

Carry-on Bag

Without hesitation, this carry-on travel backpack has been my go-to for years. I absolutely love it. This bag has the perfect combination of smart storage compartments, style, and comfort. In fact, this is the most comfortable expandable backpack I’ve ever worn. I store things like my laptop, important travel documents, a change of clothes, and a 1-quart toiletry plastic bag with some necessities for the flight. Fully expanded, it can even hold a few days’ worth of clothes or those extra souvenirs you want to bring back home. ProTip: I like to pack a few extra plastic bags in case something leaks and for things like wet clothes.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Not only does a hanging toiletry bag keep everything organized and easily repackable for European city-hopping, but it also allows you to keep things like toothbrushes and contact lens cases off the limited counter space around hotel sinks. You can still have all your toiletries hanging in the bathroom when you need them without worrying about knocking them off the sink.

Mini Travel Bottles

No need to take up space in your luggage with full-sized toiletries or create more waste with travel-sized (3.4 oz.) toiletries. These mini travel bottles are all TSA compliant, come in different sizes, and are easy to fill and dispense. Best of all, they’ve never leaked into my bag!

Clothes for Your Europe Travel Checklist

This section is a bit subjective because the clothes you pack will be dependent on the time of year you travel, what you’ll be doing, and your own style. But what to pack for a Europe trip is one of the most common questions I get, so I’ve compiled my best tips and recommendations below.

The most important thing is not to overpack. I know, easier said than done!

One way to avoid this is to plan your outfits, or if that is too difficult, pack clothes in a similar color palette. Pack neutral colors than can be worn with many different things. By doing this, you’ll inevitably have numerous pairings because most of the pieces will go together.

As you begin to pack, lay everything out first. You’ll likely be able to eliminate things that are duplicates (no, you do not need 3 black tops.) or items not in line with the majority color palette of the rest.

There are cliche items to avoid in European cities like flip-flops, workout clothes, or anything too casual like sweatpants or sports jerseys, shorts, super dressy clothing, or clothes meant for hiking and other outdoor activities. Not only will avoiding these items in big cities be more fashionable, but they also help you blend in more. When you blend in more, you’re less of a target for a potential scammer or pickpocket.

Think more along the lines of classic pieces in neutral, soothing, or dark colors. For example, navy, black, beiges, white, and soft pastels. Also, be mindful of clothing that is too revealing, especially if you’re planning to visit cathedrals or other religious sites like in Rome or Seville .

The shoes you pack are also (so!) important.

First, pack at most 3 pairs of shoes including the ones you wear on the flight. Think smart casual and comfortable when choosing which to pack to find a balance between fashion-friendly and comfortable. You’ll likely be walking a lot and oftentimes on cobblestones.

And ladies, unless you have a specific formal event planned, you won’t need high heels. Even if you’re thinking they would be nice to wear for dinner, high heels are near impossible on cobblestone streets and take up valuable suitcase space! Instead, opt for a boot with a chunkier heel if you feel you need something dressy.

The items below are meant to be ideas to help you see what’s typically in my suitcase.

Except for the hottest days of the European summer, jeans always work. They can be dressed up or down and worn with every top you pack. Everyone has a favorite pair of jeans they love so I want to give a shout-out to mine. These Duer Performance jeans are perfect for travel. They have a good amount of stretch and are very durable. What I love is they never seem to stretch out after multiple wears and they’re great for both city sightseeing and hiking. No matter which jeans you pack, go for a pair of dark-wash jeans. They’ll look cleaner for longer! Leggings are timeless, comfortable, take up little space in your luggage, and can be part of a smart casual or even dressier look. In other words, they’re perfect for travel! Other pants I’ve included in my suitcase and are versatile enough for a range of temperatures have been these Duer No Sweat Everyday Pants , these 7/8 joggers , and Eddie Bauer Departure pants . For hot summer travel days, go with wide-leg linen blend pants and other breathable fabrics instead of shorts.

No matter what the season is I like to bring tops in different sleeve lengths that can be worn on their own or under a layer like a cardigan or a blazer. For summer European sightseeing, short sleeves that cover the shoulders will be ok for most Cathedrals. Lightweight and loose-fit tops will be the coolest for walking around a European city. Generally speaking, I pack these 3/4 sleeve shirts or these shirts with long sleeves. Lightweight sweaters are perfect for spring and fall and can mix and match with many different types of bottoms. They can be dressed up with a scarf and boots or worn with jeans and sneakers when you want to be more casual. Classic fit tees always work. And of course, a long flowy top pairs perfectly with leggings.

A top or a bottom layer can make all the difference for both style and comfort! For winter travel in central and southern Europe, a thin, effective base layer becomes your secret weapon. It keeps you warm while you’re walking without adding bulk to your overall look. In northern Europe, like Stockholm or Finnish Lapland , a baselayer top and bottom are essential! For shoulder seasons, a casual blazer that can pair with nearly all of your outfits is a win-win! Cardigans, either lightweight , open front , or something chunkier , go with most types of tops and bottoms and are great for added warmth even for a breezy evening by the sea. A lightweight jacket can come in handy for those cooler spring and fall nights. It’s an added bonus if it has a hood in case you get some rainy days.

Accessories

A scarf is an absolute Europe travel essential! It can add to your overall look and even provide warmth when needed. I always have 1 (or 2) with me when I travel to Europe. Longer scarves create that perfect fall or transition season look. These square scarves are so fashionable and can double as a headband! If you’re looking for something that can double as a scarf and a wrap, these pashmina scarves are perfect. ProTip: As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to wear little or no jewelry when traveling to avoid being a target for potential theft.

Comfortable Shoes!

Perhaps the most important Europe packing decision you’ll make is the shoes you’ll bring. European travel inevitably comes with a lot of walking which will become difficult or even painful with uncomfortable and unsupportive shoes. A Chelsea-style boot works in every European city and can be worn day and night. (In Italy, I think it must be obligatory for every Italian woman to have a pair in black!) These winter boots are stylish and warm in the colder months. Allbirds are some of the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn. Vionic shoes like these and these are great, too, and come with extra arch support. For summer European travel, I never leave home without these sandals . They’ve been an excellent investment and have saved my feet compared to other non-supportive summer shoes. Bottom line – Pack comfortable walking shoes for both day and night. Your feet will thank you!

Europe Travel Essentials FAQs

Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase in Europe?

There are pros and cons to both. Personally, I prefer a rolling suitcase and have never found it to be a problem even when traveling from city to city. Yes, there are cobblestones and sometimes no elevators when you need them. However, I’d rather lift my suitcase for a moment just to get up or down some stairs than always carry it on my back.

What size suitcase is best for a 2-week trip to Europe?

I’ve typically traveled with a 24″ suitcase for 2-3 weeks in Europe with the help of my packing cubes. If you need a bit more space, look at a 26″ or a 28″ but I wouldn’t go any bigger than that. Otherwise, it can become a real chore to move from place to place.

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase?

Without question, it’s better to roll clothes in a suitcase. It saves space and protects against wrinkles. When rolled clothes are packed within a packing cube, it’s often possible to have 2 layers of rolled clothing inside.

How much should I pack for a 2-week trip to Europe?

In general, you’ll want to pack 3-4 bottoms and 5-6 tops. Dresses are also helpful (but not required) because they are complete outfits that can be dressed up or down. I’d bring 1-2 dresses if they match your style. For shoes, 2-3 pairs are plenty. Above all, comfortable shoes are absolute Europe travel essentials!

Also bring a scarf to use as an accessory, to cover up in conservative places, or for a little warmth. And unless you’re traveling in the absolute heat of summer, pack a blazer or light jacket (jean jacket, trench, etc.), as well as 2 sweaters or items for layering over a lighter top. Be sure the top layers go with the majority, if not all, of your clothes.

If your trip is in the winter, be sure to have a packable winter coat , a warm hat, waterproof boots , and layers. One of my hacks is to pack a couple of base layer tops so I can get added warmth without adding too much bulk to my bag or body!

Essentials for European Travel: Bottom Line

Your travel packing list for Europe needs to include a combination of essential items, gear, gadgets, and clothes. If you take the time to get yourself set up and packed using these packing tips before your trip to Europe, you’ll have done everything you could to ensure a hassle-free, comfortable, and amazing trip!

So, what’s on your checklist for European travel?

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Travel Docs Checklist: Essential Documents for Your Trip to the USA

June 15, 2023

Planning a trip to the United States requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to travel documentation. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, it’s essential to have all the necessary documents in order. In this comprehensive travel docs checklist , we cover the essential documents you need for your trip to the USA, including visas, passports, health-related documents, and more. By following this checklist, you can ensure you have everything you need to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Make sure you have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry into the United States. Check if your country is eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or if you need to apply for a non-immigrant visa. Familiarize yourself with the visa application process, required documents, and any specific visa requirements based on the purpose of your visit.

Travel Authorization (ESTA)

If you are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you will need to obtain travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before your departure. We provide information on how to apply for ESTA, the required fees, and the validity period of your travel authorization.

Proof of Accommodation and Travel Itinerary

Prepare proof of accommodation for your stay in the United States, such as hotel reservations or a letter of invitation if staying with friends or relatives. It’s also advisable to have a detailed travel itinerary, including flight reservations, transportation arrangements, and planned activities or attractions you intend to visit.

Health and Travel Insurance

Check if you need any specific health-related documents or vaccinations before traveling to the USA. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruption, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure you have the necessary documentation or insurance cards readily available during your trip.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Prepare proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the United States. This can include bank statements, credit card statements, or a letter from your financial institution stating your account balances and credit limits.

Driver’s License and International Driving Permit (IDP)

If you plan to drive in the United States, check if your driver’s license is valid and if an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Some states may accept foreign driver’s licenses, while others may require an IDP in addition to your valid license.

Additional Documents

Depending on the purpose of your visit, there may be additional documents you need to carry. This can include employment letters, conference invitations, or student enrollment letters. Research and identify any specific requirements based on your travel purpose to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

By following this comprehensive travel docs checklist, you can ensure you have all the essential documents for your trip to the United States. Remember to check the specific requirements based on your nationality, purpose of travel, and duration of stay. Having the right documentation in order will help you have a stress-free and enjoyable journey to the USA.

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20 Must-Have Travel Kit Essentials: 2023 Backpack Checklist

Priya sharma

Oh, the excitement of traveling! The destination has been decided, the tickets have been bought, the hotel has been reserved, the shopping has been completed, and the only thing left to do is the packing.

Packing luggage before a vacation is enjoyable for some but may be difficult for others. You get your favorite outfits and the new ones you got, especially for this vacation.

When preparing for a trip, it’s crucial to pack your travel kit essentials, including items like toiletries, medications, and chargers. Your travel needs will vary depending on your location, but there are a few items that you will require regardless of where you go.

This article will give you the complete list of travel bag pack essentials, so continue reading to know more. Our essential travel packing list can help you organize and pack everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Setting off on a trip, whether it’s a quick getaway or a big adventure, having a ready travel kit is super important. It’s like your secret to feeling comfy, secure, and happy during your journey. But what exactly should be in this special kit? Here are the important things that should always be in your travel kit.

1. Best Comfortable Clothes-

Keep the destination in mind when you search for clothes for your vacation. You will need different clothing for a place covered in snow and one covered with beaches. Pack cardigans, sweaters, and other winter clothing when traveling somewhere chilly.

Aside from your checked luggage, pack a few wardrobe items in your cabin bag, such as a cardigan, cap, a pair of comfy T-shirts, and shorts. It’s always a good idea to be prepared if the airline misplaces your bags or another bad scenario occurs.

2. Travel Wallet-

A travel wallet must have important things like money, cards, and travel documents all in one safe place. It usually has extra pockets and spaces to keep things organized. You can keep your passport, tickets, credit cards, and even some cash in it. Use it to keep track of all your critical papers, such as the passport, AADHAR card, and travel tickets.

Along with the documents, you may use them to store currencies, debit and credit cards, hotel key cards, and various other items.

3. Toiletries-

When we’re away from home, certain things make us feel good. When traveling, having your toiletry pack on hand to help you clean up and feel better might be the distinction between a pleasant and unpleasant journey.

So, carry everything you need in a large toiletry bag. While you should pick up minor goods at your location, some skincare, personal care, and other amenities may be difficult to locate while traveling abroad.

Keep a modest set of amenities in your carry-on luggage, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and face wash. This way, you won’t ruin your neatly packed bag in public.

4. Portable Chargers and Cords-

It must be among the most necessary travel items. You wouldn’t expect your device to die during a thrilling movie scene on a plane or train. It would be much worse if you were working while traveling or if your phone died with all your trip information.

Furthermore, no battery in the smartphone or camera means no images, which you do not want! To avoid such problems, bring your chargers as well as a portable backup charger.

5. Medications-

Bringing along your necessary medications in your travel kit essentials ensures you have a safe and enjoyable trip without any health concerns. Make sure to keep your prescription on hand and some additional remedies in case you become ill due to headaches, stomach trouble, or other problems. Always carry your small portable first aid kit wherever you travel.

When you are on medical treatment, always keep it with you, even if you only take it infrequently. Carry over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol, diarrhea medicine, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, and allergy medication. Bandages, sanitizer, and mosquito and insect repellents are also essential.

6. Sunscreen, Moisturizer & Lip Balm-

When on vacation, one of the most crucial travel essentials is sunscreen. It will shield you from dangerous sunlight while keeping your skin safe. If you’re flying, use sunscreen during the trip, particularly if you have a window seat.

Pack your moisturizer and lip balm with you, as well as your sunscreen, to keep your skin moisturized, and you look great in all of your photos.

7. Sanitizers and Face Masks-

If you are on a long road trip, your travel backpack essentials must include Sanitizers and face masks.

It’s important to have your face mask at all times, and it’s equally vital to make sure they are comfortable for extended use.

Along with these masks, have a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your handbag since airports and train stations receive many people regularly, and you must be taking care of your hygiene and wellness.

And these masks also help you not catch any viruses if some people are sick. It was always mandatory.

8. Makeup and Accessories-

Makeup and accessories were essential for women, and they could put on their favorite lipstick color on the trip. With the correct accessories and cosmetics, you can alter any look. Talk about stylish attire.

Sweaters, shrugs, Scarves, half-jackets, or any other layers you can add or remove are ideal.

Sunglasses, Earrings, small chains, finger rings, a sling bag, or anything else that may stand out and liven up your clothing might be useful additions to your luggage.

9. Hygiene products-

One of the last things you wish to forget on your trip is any necessary hygiene or medical supplies. While you may acquire additional deodorant to keep fresh on your vacation, it’s far more crucial to remember drugs that will be very hard to get rid of once you arrive.

Contact lenses, birth control pills, safety pads, prescription glasses, and other drugs are included.

Most of the time, women can arrange a trip around their cycle, but life happens. Traveling without sanitary products may be pricey and inconvenient, particularly if you need them. So, make it a practice to bring a few with you. It is preferable to possess and not require them but rather to not have and require them.

10. Entertainment to Beat Boredom-

This may seem like a millennial thing to some but remember to bring your iPad, laptop, or book. You can’t keep looking through the window for the duration of the trip, can you?

Long travels may be tedious, especially with no onboard entertainment system. To keep oneself engaged while traveling, read your favorite book, watch a movie, or play games. So always take your favorite book, or watch your favorite movie or series.

11. Neck Pillow-

You don’t want to have serious neck pain during your journey. In that case, bring a neck cushion with you. This neck pillow can come in handy if you have a long wait for your flight or train and are feeling drowsy.

Furthermore, these U-shaped neck pillows are lightweight and portable. Think again if this needs to be added to your list of must-have travel items.

12. Comfortable Shoes-

This is the point where we all make mistakes. Don’t carry as much footwear to match your outfit. Carry one pair of exceptionally comfy shoes for traveling, strolling about, and wherever you go.

If you’re heading to a formal dinner or many parties, bring a pair of useful and comfy party shoes, such as black pumps or nude flats.

Sandals or beach sandals are an obvious choice for a beach holiday. However, before leaving on vacation, ensure you’ve worn them for a while because new flip-flops might be uncomfortable. In general, closed footwear is a good idea.

13. Sunglasses and hat-

Make sure to pack sunglasses and a hat in your travel backpack. These are simple but important things that can make your trip even better. Sunglasses stop the bright sun from hurting your eyes and keep them safe from bad sun rays. Wearing a hat does two good things – it stops the sun from making your face red, and it helps you stay cooler when it’s hot outside. Whether walking around a busy city, sitting by the sea, or hiking in nature, sunglasses and a hat help you a lot. Put them in your bag, and you’ll be ready for a fun trip with comfy eyes and extra shade from the sun.

14. Insect Repellent-

Don’t forget to bring insect repellent when you travel. This is something that keeps bugs away from you. Bugs like mosquitoes can bite and make you itchy, but using insect repellent helps keep them from coming close.

It’s really helpful, especially if you’re going to places with many bugs. Just put some on your skin before you go outside, and you’ll be much more comfortable without those annoying bug bites. It’s a good thing to have in your bag to make sure you have a nicer time outdoors.

15. Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella-

Lightweight rain jackets or umbrellas are essential to pack if you are traveling to a place where rain is common or if the weather can change suddenly. These items help you stay dry and comfortable when it starts to rain unexpectedly.

A lightweight rain jacket is easy to carry and can keep you dry without taking up much space in your bag. On the other hand, an umbrella can be a handy accessory to shield you from rain showers. Whether you’re exploring the city, hiking, or simply walking around, having a rain jacket or umbrella can make sure you enjoy your travel without getting soaked.

16. Towels and Sleepwear-

Your travel kit essentials should include a towel and sleepwear to make your trip comfy. Although, Budget hostels rarely offer complimentary bath towels to visitors, so have one on hand just in case. Microfiber towels fold up exceptionally compactly and dry quickly. They can even be used at the beach.

Pack a set or two of pajamas for folks who prefer sleeping more comfortably and prefer not to crumple your daywear by sleeping in it. Generally, go for big tees and cozy sweats.

17. Ziplock Bags / Plastic Bags and Toiletry bag-

Things you may find around the house that are good for keeping dirty clothing, various currencies for organizing, and other random stuff. They can also serve as a first layer of waterproofing for electronics. A toiletry bag is like a special bag for your personal things that you need for taking care of yourself. It’s a bit like a small Pouch just for your soap, toothbrush, shampoo, and other things you use in the bathroom.

18. Small Travel Pouch-

A small travel pouch is a handy little bag that you can use to keep your important things organized during your trip. It’s like a mini-version of your regular bag, but it’s perfect for holding items like your passport, tickets, and small items that you need to find quickly. You can also use it to keep your phone, keys, and money safe and easy to reach. It’s small enough to fit inside your bigger bag or even in your pocket, so you can have your important stuff with you wherever you go. This way, you can take some weight off your bag and avoid returning to the accommodation.

19. Travel-sized first aid kit-

A travel-sized first aid kit is like a little box of help for when someone gets hurt or feels unwell during a trip. It has basic things like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. If someone gets a small cut, you can clean it with the wipes and put on a bandage. If they have a headache, you can give them a pain reliever. It’s like having a small doctor’s kit with you. This kit doesn’t take much space in your bag but can be really useful in case someone needs quick care. It’s good to have it just in case something unexpected happens.

20. Snacks and reusable water bottle

Bringing snacks and a reusable water bottle on your trip is a smart idea. Snacks are like little bites of energy that you can have when you’re hungry, and a reusable water bottle is a special kind of bottle that you can fill with water and use again and again.

When you’re exploring or on the go, having some snacks with you can keep you from feeling too hungry, and a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated (that means having enough water in your body). Instead of buying water bottles all the time, you can fill your reusable one, which is good for the environment too. It’s a great way to save money and stay refreshed during your travels.

Conclusion-

Make a list of the things that are required you intend to bring on the trip. Remember to bring all travel documents, such as identification, travel insurance, and an itinerary, while preparing for a vacation. Pack a first-aid kit and toiletries as well.

Avoid overpacking by packing clothing, shoes, skincare products, cosmetics, and accessories appropriate for the temperature and destination. You can also bring books, magazines, or earbuds for listening to music as entertainment throughout the journey. Above mentioned essential travel packing list includes all the necessary items to ensure you’re well-prepared for your journey.

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• Holiday packing and pre-travel checklist

So, you’ve booked your flights, accommodation and activities. What next?

Let’s make sure you’re not leaving anything out – from what to book and arrange upfront to the essential items to pack when you go.

Posted: 24/1/2022 | By Amanda Duffy

We’ve put together checklists for travel in general and for specific types of holiday too, so you can tick things off easily, wherever you’re off to. With so much else to keep in mind when you’re getting set to travel, checklists can help you avoid forgetting something important.

Before you go

Packing list essentials.

• Checklists by holiday type

There are a few things you should do to get your house in order before you leave for your holidays.

Bills and utilities

• Let your credit/debit card company know you may be using it abroad – it will help avoid problems later
• Pay bills in advance that will be due while you’re away
• Turn off electrical wall sockets (except the fridge and the freezer) if your home is going to be empty
• Set timers for devices or appliances you still want to come on while you’re away, like lights (to put off would-be burglars) or your boiler
• Contact your mobile operator to see if roaming charges apply where you’re going – if they do, discuss your options

Practical tips

• Clear out the fridge of anything that’s going to go off while you’re away
• Find a place for your pets – ask a friend, family member or neighbour to look after them or book with recommended local kennels or catteries
• Let a neighbour know you’ll be away – give them spare keys and emergency contact details just in case
• Book airport parking – paying in advance could help you save money, especially if you book reputable services a bit further away and catch a shuttle bus to the airport

Protect what matters when you go with good travel insurance

Documents and travel insurance, check your passport.

How long is left on your passport? Check in good time for everyone who’s due to travel, in case any are about to expire. Some countries refuse entry to tourists whose passports are less than six months from expiry.

Applying for a new passport can take at least six weeks, while renewing a passport takes three weeks – so don’t leave it to the last minute. Passports can be renewed or replaced at any time. 

You should also check well in advance if you need a visa for your destination. The time it takes to apply and receive a visa can vary.

Get travel insurance

Good travel insurance for everyone in your family should be top of the holiday checklist. It can provide extra reassurance as it may cover you for cancellation before your trip, missed or delayed flights, or lost, stolen luggage and other belongings such as passports and cash. Most importantly, it may cover emergency medical costs if you need attention while away.

In EU countries, a Ghic or Ehic will give you free or low-cost emergency and state medical care, but they’re not a replacement for travel insurance . They won’t cover you being airlifted from a mountain or flown back to the UK, or extra accommodation or transport costs for a family member if you need a long stay in hospital. So, it’s best to have your travel insurance in place well before you go and take all documents with you.

It’s important to have some cash wherever you are going, even if you are visiting a largely cashless place. You never know what you might need it for. So local currency comes high on any holiday essentials list.

Don't pay over the odds for travel money at the airport. Get it sorted as soon as possible, ideally when the pound is strong against the foreign currency you need. Use a currency converter to check the exchange rate.

Make sure you have at least two different debit or credit cards – memorising both PIN numbers. Keep one in a safe place as an emergency backup. Note that some banks charge for cash withdrawals overseas. You can also load travel money onto prepaid travel money cards .

Travel apps are also available that help you keep track of your holiday spending and convert local prices into pounds easily when you’re away.

Your travel itinerary

Find out your flight times, including departure time and when to check in by, and add in plenty of extra time to get to the airport and for unexpected delays.

Check in online the night before if you can and print off your boarding passes, as some airlines charge you to issue a boarding pass at the airport. Print off an extra set and keep them separate, just in case.

Double-check your accommodation check in times. If you get there early, you may need to wait for them to get your room or whatever you’re staying in ready.

Find out if they’ll hang onto your luggage in the meantime – then you can explore without carrying your bags around with you. Just remember to take any valuables with you or ask to leave them in the reception safe.

In the following checklists, we cover off the absolute essentials you’ll need wherever you’re going, and whatever type of holiday you’re going on. And we answer the question “what documents do I need for my holiday?”

We haven’t listed clothing – just take what’s appropriate for the climate in your destination and any activities you’ll be doing. And remember to pack a pen and paper – they’ll be useful in all kinds of situations, especially if your electrical gear fails you.

When you’re packing, make sure you know the airline’s weight limits for hand luggage and checked bags. Weigh your luggage on the bathroom scales before you go. If your hand luggage is too big, you’ll have to check it in – and that usually means an extra charge.

Don't forget the essentials

Travel documents.

The travel documents you need in order to be able to travel are:

• Boarding passes
• Visas (if required – print and take with you)
• ESTA  (if you’re travelling to the USA – print and take with you)

Take a copy of your passport details in case it gets lost and you need to apply for an  emergency replacement . Other important documents for your travels might include:

• Travel insurance  documents
• Itinerary details – a list of addresses of where you’ll be visiting and when
• Home address details in the UK
• Contact details for your bank, particularly the overseas contact number
• Any onward travel (such as train) documentation
• Information about the British embassy in the country your visiting, or your nearest consulate
• Travel agency contact details if relevant
• Ghic or valid Ehic for EU trips (see ‘health and medication’ below)
• Driving licence  (as a form of ID whether you’ll be driving or not)
• International Driving Permit  (IDP)
• Hire car details
• Booked excursion details
• Licences for activities you need them for (e.g. PADI certificates for scuba diving)
• Contact details of next of kin
• GP contact details
• Prescriptions and lists of  personal medications  currently being taken
• A letter from your GP confirming you’re taking, and need to take, your medicines
• Inoculation and vaccination certificates
• Organ donor card (if you have one)
• Medical bracelet (if you wear one)
• Images and serial numbers of valuable items you’re taking with you
• ATOL certificate

You don’t need physical copies of all these things, but it’s a good idea to have digital copies. If you’re taking photos of them, they need to be accessible if you don’t have internet access, so you could store them on your phone’s memory or laptop hard drive (if you’re taking one). Just make sure you keep them charged.

It’s also wise to email all of these to someone at home so that there are emergency back-up versions available should you lose your phone or computer.

Toiletry items to pack could include:

• Conditioner
• Toothbrushes
• Moisturiser

With a few of you going away, your luggage may tip the airport scales with toiletries alone, so take smaller bottles of everything, including shampoo, conditioner and shower gel. Remember that you’ll be able to buy full bottles at your holiday resort if you run out.

As well as the basics, don’t forget things like glasses, contact lenses and any medicine. And remember that you can’t bring any  liquids over 100ml in your hand luggage  to avoid having to bin toiletries at the airport.

Entertainment and electronics

If you’ll have lots of time on your hands, such as on a beach holiday, taking enough reading material, devices and other items to keep you entertained for the full trip is a travel essential. That’s especially important if you need to keep little ones busy.

• Mobile phones
• Books/magazines
• Activity books and guides
• Tablets such as iPads
• Portable games consoles
• Music player if you don’t use your phone
• Fitness trackers / watches
• Pack of cards or selection of games (for family trips)
• Pillow and light cover for longer flights/journeys
• Chargers for all devices you’re taking

Bring mains plugs for chargers, don’t just rely on USB. Remember the right international plug adapter for your destination too. If you don’t have one, buying one before you get to the airport will save you paying over the odds there. Portable USB charging packs are a handy backup for phones and other devices when you’re on the move.

Wi-Fi in your destination may be slow, expensive or non-existent when you travel to your destination. Download all the music, books, games, guides, maps, films or TV box sets you’ll need to entertain the whole family, especially the children – or if you want to get a bit of relaxing time to yourself.

Health and medication

Medical care for Brits in the EU

Your travel necessities should include a  UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic)  or, if it’s still in date, your current  European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) . These give UK nationals access to free or reduced-cost medical care while in European Union countries. 

While a Ghic or Ehic is certainly a travel essential for any trip to EU countries, it’s still important to get  travel insurance  too. Neither Ghic nor Ehic will cover you for extras such as being airlifted from a mountain or flown back to the UK, known as repatriation. And an Ehic or Ghic won’t cover the costs to transport or accommodate a family member to stay nearby if you need a long stay in hospital. So, it’s best to have your travel cover in place well before you leave.

Make sure you also take full details of any medical conditions you have, including a record of any jabs and other medical documents that may help a local doctor should you fall ill. 

Prescription medication

If you or one of your family take regular  medication , pack enough in your hand luggage to last you more than the length of your holiday, including potential delays. Include a recent prescription and letter from your GP explaining what the condition is and what you’re taking for it. If you take  liquid medication  or need extra medical equipment such as syringes, you’ll be required to prove why you need them to travel at airport security.

First aid kits

A good first-aid kit is one of the most essential travel items to take with you. Besides your prescription medication, include a small amount of any of the following normally kept in your medicine cabinet at home:

• Painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
• Indigestion tablets
• Antihistamines (for insect bites and minor allergic reactions)
• Travel sickness tablets
• Plasters and bandages
• Cotton wool
• Antiseptic cream and wipes
• Infant or child's medication (if needed)
• Insect repellent
• Safety pins
• A pair of tweezers
• A pair of scissors

Remember, standard travel insurance policies typically provide only limited cover for gadgets, so if you’ll be taking more than your policy provides consider if you’ll need additional  gadget cover .

Travel checklists by holiday type

Where are you heading? To the beach or a camp site? On a cruise or perhaps a skiing trip or city break? here are a few extras you’ll need for specific trips depending on what you’ll be doing.

What should I pack for a beach holiday?

• High factor sun protectio
• Insect repellent 
• Antihistamines
• Painkillers
• Water sterilisers
• Flip flops/sandals
• Beach towels
• Portable safe (for keeping valuables safe outside of the hotel)
• Anti-theft bag
• Waterproof covering for electricals
• Light clothing
• Inflatables
• Beach activities (bucket and spade, beach tennis)
• Snorkelling kit
• Books and magazines
• Refillable water bottles

Sun, sea, sand – beach holidays are the gold standard in relaxation. As well as sunbathing and swimming, you’ll probably want to be eating and drinking your fill too.

It’s important that your travel insurance covers you for everything you’re doing. Activities that you might want to get involved in spontaneously may not be covered and you could be putting yourself at risk without making sure before you buy. You can also invalidate your policy by drinking excessively, so know your limits.

Sunbathing and tanning are what lots of us go on beach holidays for, so it’s important to remain hydrated while you’re there. It’s not always easy to buy lots of bottles of water when you’re at the beach itself, so make sure that your shops include enough bottled water. You lose lots of moisture just sitting out in the sun, so you might need to drink more water than you think in order to stay properly hydrated. Failing to do so can contribute to things like sunstroke, which can be deeply unpleasant.

And it goes without saying that you should protect yourself against the sun with a combination of high-factor sun protection for sensitive areas and clothing.

Avoid taking your valuables to the beach. Keep them in a safe in your accommodation. Or see if nearby establishments have a secure locker service. Don’t leave valuables unattended or try burying them in the sand as they risk being lost or stolen.

What should I pack for a family holiday?

Packing for a family holiday will depend on the age range of its members. A toddler and baby holiday checklist is always going to be much longer than that for older children. But remember that they have their own luggage allowance. Here’s a suggested packing list for families – just tailor it to your trip.

• Changing mat
• Teething ring
• Milk / powdered milk
• Food and snacks
• Pram/stroller/bassinet
• Clothes (for you both)
• Rusks (if you need them)
• Nappy cream
• Moisturising cream
• Sheet for travel cot
• Baby cutlery
• Nasal aspirator
• High factor sun cream
• Sun hat and suits
• Umbrella or sun shield for pushchair

What should I pack for a city break?

On top of the general items we’ve listed for any type of trip, a suggested packing list for city breaks would include:

• Map software, downloaded to be used offline
• Translation app, again downloaded to be used offline
• Sensible shoes
• Evening clothes

You may end up needing to use your phone often in a new city. Having offline apps means you won’t need to rely on Wi-Fi or data roaming charges to get around or know what to say.

Sensible shoes don’t have to sacrifice style. But if you’re going to be walking all day, it’s important to do so in comfort. And evening clothes doesn’t mean formal evening wear; simply clothes that you feel good in to go out in the evening.

What should I pack for a skiing holiday?

A ski packing list could run into many pages, but some of the essentials – depending on what you’re taking or decide to hire when you arrive – include:

• Sun cream and sunblock
• Muscle pain relief (eg. Deep Heat)
• Normal winter gloves
• Snow resistant boots/shoes (for apres ski)
• Ski hire details
• Ski boots / snowboard boots
• Walking boots
• Skis / snowboard
• Multi-purpose tool kit
• Day pack / rucksack / backpack
• Hydration bladder
• GPS tracker

Don’t forget details about your resort, including your accommodation and the best places to hire equipment from, as well as the tickets and passes to get you up the mountain. You may need spare  passport pictures  for your lift pass.

Ski gear can be expensive, so unless you go frequently it might be sensible to see if there are items you can borrow from friends and family rather than buying new. Again, you may not need everything on this list. If you don’t have your own skis/snowboard, for example, then it’s more common to hire them at your venue.

Sunlight reflects off snow and intensifies in the process, meaning that on the mountain you are getting sun from above and below. This can cause severe sunburn, rapid dehydration, sunblindness and chapping. Wear high-factor sun cream on exposed skin and sunblock on your lips. Carry a full hydration bladder in your backpack. Always wear UV goggles or sunglasses if you’re proficient. Chapstick can be a lifesaver if your lips do become cracked by wind and sun.

It’s sensible for your ski clothing to be brightly coloured. This is to make you stand out if you become stranded, or need to stay close to your buddies during a white out. A GPS tracker can be extremely important for those going off-piste. Remember that, if you do go off-piste, your travel insurance policy may stipulate you must still stick to recognised routes and resort boundaries in order to remain covered.

Read our detailed guide to  packing for a skiing holiday .

What should I pack for a cruise?

The great thing about cruises is your comfort’s quite often in the hands of the crew, but there are a few additional items to remember, especially if you’ll be exploring the sites on shore along the way.

• Travel money  – for each of the countries you’ll be stopping off at
• Prescription medications – enough for the cruise duration plus a bit more
• Evening wear
• Warm coat – something for all weathers will be handy when it gets nippy out at sea
• Footwear that can grip when wet
• Sportswear if you need it
• Daypack – to carry your travel money and other items you’ll need on shore

If you’re going on a cruise holiday, be sure to check your travel insurance policy for what it covers. Some may require you to add on  additional cruise cover  to your standard policy.

What should I pack for a backpacking holiday?

This checklist seems a lot to take in a backpack, leaving little room for clothes. Many of these items can be bought where you are, but if you think it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get them where you’re going then pack them in advance.

• Large backpack
• Torch (perhaps head-mounted)
• Water sanitisers
• Sun cream, sunblock and after sun
• Laundry detergent for cold water
• Clothesline (length of nylon cord)
• Portable power block
• Waterproof wallet for travel documents
• Microfibre towel
• Dry shampoo
• First aid kit – see ‘health and medication’ section above – other items to consider include constipation and diarrhoea relief, plus electrolytes and rehydration sachets (such as Dioralyte)
• Waterproof cover for backpack
• Ear plugs and eye mask
• Drinking bladder
• Portable safe
• Pen and paper

If you take prescription medicines, take plenty, a copy of your prescription and a doctor’s note explaining why you need to take them. Check there aren’t restrictions on the medicines you’re carrying in any countries you’re visiting. You may be able to get an exemption via the country’s embassy. Some common, over-the-counter medicines in the UK are prohibited in other countries. Make sure that you are not carrying these.

Bin liners can be incredibly useful and take up little space until unrolled. They can provide as makeshift waterproofing, a receptacle for dirty laundry, as normal rubbish bags and many other things.

Some items, like a cagoule, are in case you end up in weather you hadn’t expected. You won’t want to take your large backpack everywhere you go so having a daypack helps you only take what you need on excursions.

Laundry detergent might not be something you want to carry around but, if you don’t have access to supermarkets, it might prove extremely useful.

A microfibre towel is a highly-absorbent, quick-drying, miniature towel that takes up nothing like as much space as a normal one. It can be an invaluable travel buddy.

A drinking bladder (or hydration bladder) is a ‘bladder’ you fill with water that is integrated into your backpack or daypack. This can save on carrying around water bottles and keep you hydrated.

What should I pack for a camping holiday?

The first item on any camping holiday checklist is, of course, the tent. Choose one as large as your budget will allow and take your time putting it up. There’s nothing worse than an unstable tent or a water leak when the weather is bad. Other items to take along include:

• Sleeping bags
• Portable stove
• Camping chairs
• Warm sleepwear, as it can get cold at night, no matter how warm it is in the day
• Waterproof clothing
• Water bottles
• Cooking utensils
• Washing up liquid
• Washing up bowl
• Lots and lots of wet wipes

What should I pack for a walking holiday?

Suggested items for your walking holiday travel checklist are:

• Walking boots – study and comfy, ideally with ankle support
• Breathable clothing – to keep you warm or cool as needed, but ventilated
• Daypack – to take out just what you need for the day
• Water bottle or hydration pack
• Snacks – such as energy bars, trail mix, sweets and chocolate
• First aid kit – see ‘health and medication’ section above
• High factor sun cream or block and lip balm
• Handheld and head torches, plus batteries and spares
• Camping gear if you need it (see camping checklist above)

Other common questions

What should i pack in my hand luggage.

It’s a good idea to pack a change of clothes and essential toiletries in your hand luggage in case you need to call on them during your travels. Just don’t pack any  liquids over 100ml , including toiletries or drinks.

Remember that, usually, once you’ve been through airport security you can buy drinks in the departure lounge to take onto the plane for your flight. It’s also worth taking some snacks, as doing so can avoid you paying sky-high prices in the air.

Another important but sometimes overlooked essential is a pen – useful for filling out immigration cards, for instance.

Have something warm to wear in your hand luggage, for use on the plane or in case it’s cold when you arrive in your destination or back home. A head pillow and eye mask, if not provided by the airline, can add extra comfort if you’ll be sleeping on the flight.

Entertainment and electronics wise, you can take mobile phones, laptops, tablets, MP3 players, electric shavers, hairdryers, straighteners and e-cigarettes in your hand luggage but must be able to switch them on if asked so make sure they’re charged. Don’t forget headphones too.

Essential medication is okay, even if it’s over 100ml, if you have a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note saying why you take it and confirming that you need to.

You’ll find more about on hand luggage dos and don’ts on the  FCDO hand luggage page .

What is not allowed in carry on?

Whenever you board a plane in the UK, there are restrictions on what the hand luggage you take into the cabin can contain. Check the full  government guidance on hand luggage restrictions  before you pack your hold and hand luggage to make sure you’re taking only what’s allowed – and in the right bags.

Liquids cannot go through airport security in containers of any larger than 100ml, even if only partially full. The exceptions are for essential medial purposes (such as prescriptions), special dietary requirements or baby food and baby milk.

Sharp items aren’t allowed in hand luggage, but  personal items  like tweezers, nail clippers and small scissors with blades no longer than 6cm are fine. You can typically carry one lighter. Any more must go in your hold luggage.

On a practical point, remember to also check in advance with your airline the number, size and weight of hand luggage allowed for each passenger.

Is a handbag classed as hand luggage?

Some airlines allow you to take a small extra bag, such as a handbag, on board in addition to their hand luggage allowance per person. This isn’t the case for all carriers, though, so you should check with yours to be sure. Details will usually be available before, during or on confirmation of your booking, and when you go to check in online.

What is the 3-1-1 rule?

Each liquid you take in your hand luggage must be a container of no more than 3.4 ounces. You must place each container in one clear plastic bag that’s a quart in size. And only one of these bags is allowed per passenger. This is known as the 3-1-1 rule.

Is it better to fold or roll clothes?

There are different schools of thought but often, and depending on the items of clothing you’re taking, a combination of rolling and folding works best to keep them in good condition during transit.

Try rolling smaller items like shorts or dresses that could crease more easily if folded.

For bulkier items like jumpers and jeans, folding should be okay. Flat packing items can be even more effective and can help free up extra space too.

Read out guide to  how to pack a suitcase .

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Protect Your Trip »

32 road trip essentials for adults and kids.

Travel more comfortably with these road trip must-haves.

Road Trip Essentials

Getty Images

While you don't necessarily need a lot of things for a successful road trip, certain items can't be overlooked. Read on to discover which items you should consider adding to your road trip packing list, or jump to the section on what to pack for kids .

Road trip essentials for adults

From roadside emergency must-haves to multipurpose gadgets you can use throughout your journey, these are some of the most helpful items to have on a road trip.

"Hanger" can make a road trip go south pretty quick. Pack your favorite snacks and put them in an easily accessible spot.

Courtesy of ICEMULE

You might want to bring a small cooler for any snacks and drinks that need to stay cold. If you don't already own one, the best cooler bags include the ICEMULE Classic (available in a variety of sizes) and the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag .

A seat organizer like this one by YOOFAN can help you keep snacks, tissues and any other essentials close at hand. Plus, it can double as a reusable bag for any small purchases you make during your road trip.

USB charging cables

If you have USB ports in your car, buy a set of charging cables so you can keep your devices charged and also play music and podcasts from your phone. Compatible with Apple devices, this two-pack of Amazon Basics cables is well rated; for Samsung devices, try these Anker cables . Both sets have 3-foot cords, which are the perfect size for car travel.

Portable charger

Courtesy of INIU

Even if you have charging ports and cables in your car, a portable charger is good to have on hand, too. Travelers rave about the INIU Portable Charger for its slim, lightweight design and overall efficiency.

Jumper cables

A set of jumper cables is essential to have in your car at all times, whether you're driving 2 miles down the road or 200 miles away from home. The Energizer Jumper Cables are especially well rated. Available for less than $20 on Amazon, the 12-foot-long cables are perfect for any car type and come with a travel bag for easy storage. Longer cables are also available.

Portable tire inflator

A portable tire inflator can be a lifesaver if you find your tires have a slow leak during your trip. The AstroAl Air Compressor Tire Inflator is compact, so it won't take up much space among the other gear in your trunk, and it includes an LED flashlight with independent switch control. It is programmed to stop automatically once it hits the preset tire pressure and it comes with a 36-month warranty.

Other travelers prefer the ViAir 88P - 00088 Portable Compressor Kit , noting it works well with a wide variety of vehicles. In addition to a 12-foot air hose and a 9-foot power cord, the kit comes with alligator clamps that power your air compressor by attaching to your car's battery.

Courtesy of Snow Joe

If you're traveling during the winter months and/or to a destination where you might encounter snow and ice, make sure you have a snow broom in your car. The Snow Joe 4-in-1 Telescoping Broom is especially convenient for travel because of its lightweight, foldable design, and recent buyers confirm the foam head prevents any scratching. This snow broom also features an ice scraper and LED lights with a blinking functionality for emergencies.

Dashboard phone mount

Avoid distractions by installing a dashboard phone mount before your journey starts. The iOttie Easy One Touch 5 comes with a telescopic arm, a magnetic cord organizer and a strong-hold suction cup. Plus, its easy one-touch lock-and-release mechanism (a feature that is much appreciated among recent customers) makes taking your phone on and off the holder a breeze. If you don't like the rigidity of traditional dashboard phone mounts, consider choosing a phone mount with a flexible arm instead.

Car document holder

In the event that you get into a car accident or are pulled over by the police, having easy access to your car's registration, insurance information and owner's manual is crucial – whether you're traveling or not. This two-sided holder , which comes in a pack of two for less than $5 on Amazon, does the job.

Roadside emergency kit

For peace of mind, many travelers recommend an all-purpose roadside emergency kit . These kits are typically equipped with a tire pressure gauge, a utility knife, safety gloves, cable ties, a tow rope, tire repair tools, first-aid supplies, rain ponchos and other useful items.

Courtesy of Busy Co

Freshen up with the extra-large body wipes from Busy Co , which are suitable for dry, oily and combination skin types. They address a variety of skincare needs, including clarifying, toning, soothing and nourishing. Recent customers appreciated the large size of the wipes and said using them made them feel refreshed while traveling.

Lysol wipes

Disinfecting Lysol wipes are a must-have on your travel packing list. These cleaning wipes kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, so you can feel protected while on the road.

Disposable toilet seat covers

Using disposable toilet seat covers can help you avoid germs and stay clean when you stop for restroom breaks at gas stations, port-a-potties and campgrounds.

Nausea relief

Courtesy of Sea-Band

Long hours in the car might sound daunting to anyone prone to motion sickness. In those cases, having preventative nausea medicine like Dramamine can be a lifesaver. If you prefer a drug-free alternative, Sea-Bands are anti-nausea wristbands that use acupuncture as a natural remedy to reduce motion sickness. Travelers say these bands are highly effective at reducing nausea.

Hand sanitizer

From gas pumps to ATMs, you never know what germs you may encounter on a road trip. Protect yourself against viruses by keeping a bottle of hand sanitizer in your car.

Book or e-reader

Sitting in the car for hours can be painfully boring at times. Bring a good book or an e-reader like the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite , which puts thousands of books at your fingertips. The device boasts up to 10 weeks of battery life, adjustable warm light and a glare-free display, which recent reviewers said made marathon reading sessions a breeze. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids , which offers a special font for children with dyslexia and comes with a two-year warranty.

Rooftop cargo carrier

Save some space inside your vehicle by opting for a car roof cargo carrier. With an anti-slip mat and reinforced adjustable straps, the waterproof FIVKLEMNZ 15 Cubic Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier from Amazon is suitable for any car type. Recent customers say that they had no problem getting it to stay in place even on high-speed roads.

Car trash can

Courtesy of Hotor

There's no doubt about it – road trips can generate a lot of trash. Keep your car clean on your next adventure with this Hotor car trash can from Amazon. Complete with an adjustable strap, mesh side panels for storage and a leakproof interior lining, this useful accessory comes highly recommended by travelers who find themselves frequently on the road.

Dog waste bags

Even if you don't have a dog, hear us out: Dog poop bags are useful for a variety of needs, from general waste to dirty diapers to unexpected accidents caused by motion sickness. The Earth Rated bags are 100% leakproof, and buyers agree they're effective at eliminating odors.

If you'll be sitting in the passenger's seat or backseat, bring a pair of earbuds or headphones. For kids, consider the fleece CozyPhones , which are volume-limiting for little ears and come in a variety of animal themes.

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Car passengers can get a bit more comfortable with the help of an ergonomic neck pillow for travel . Top-rated options include the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the MVLOC Travel Pillow .

Shield your eyes from the sun by picking up a good pair of sunglasses before your trip. Choose sunglasses that protect against the sun's UVA and UVB rays, and are polarized to block glare. Travelers love that these Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses come in a variety of tints and can even be customized to fit your needs. For a more budget-friendly option, check out these SUNGAIT Ultra Lightweight Rectangular Polarized Sunglasses from Amazon, which recent customers say are very comfortable and perfect for road tripping.

Beach blanket

Courtesy of WEKAPO

A large beach blanket or towel is one of the most versatile accessories you can bring on a road trip. You can use it to have a picnic lunch, to clean up a spill, to dry off playground equipment after a rainstorm and more.

Reusable water bottle

Skip the plastic bottles and opt for a high-quality reusable water bottle on your next trip. This  40-ounce bottle from Hydro Flask  keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for a full day. It also comes with a lid with a built-in straw, which consumers say makes it convenient for driving. For kids, a durable water bottle like this  12-ounce YETI Rambler  fits the bill: Its stainless steel bottle is dishwasher-safe and shatter-resistant, a feature that parents love.

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Road trip essentials for kids

In addition to snacks, headphones, reusable water bottles, sunglasses and – depending whether your kids are in a car seat or not – travel pillows, the following items are essential to a successful road trip with kids.

Seatback organizer

A car seatback organizer lets you arrange road trip essentials on the back of the driver's or passenger's seat, where they're within reach of small hands. Many buyers said this seatback organizer from Amazon took some of the stress out of traveling with kids, thanks to its multipurpose storage compartments, including a place for a tablet and plenty of other spots to store key items for your trip.

Travel tray

Courtesy of LUSSO Gear

If your co-pilot is constantly turning around to pick up toys or pass out snacks, a backseat travel tray is in order. The LUSSO Gear Kids Travel Tray comes with a safety strap that can be secured to any car seat, and includes a dry-erase board table, a cup holder, a storage compartment for toys and a no-drop tablet viewing stand. Reviewers loved the tray's whiteboard area and said it was a great way to keep kids entertained on long car rides.

Window shade

Protect your backseat drivers from UVA and UVB rays with some window shades. Many parents like the shades by Enovoe , which come in a two- or four-pack.

Bag of small toys and activities

Load up on small toys you can surprise your kids with throughout the journey. Wikki Stix , Melissa & Doug Water Wow pads and sticker books are all good, low-cost activities, and you can find other cheap options at your local dollar and thrift stores. You might even add some candy to the mix, especially for that last leg of the trip.

Most parents want to keep screen time to a minimum, but all bets are off when it comes to travel. Consider a tablet like the Amazon Fire Kids , which comes with a protective case and one year of Amazon Kids+. Amazon Kids+ features thousands of ad-free books, games and apps; for any streaming services you have at home, you can download TV show episodes and movies so the kids don't need Wi-Fi to watch them.

Small blanket

Courtesy of Cubcoat

Bring a small blanket and/or other comfort item from home to ensure the kids are cozy and content in the backseat. You could also bring a Cubcoat , which is a two-in-one stuffed animal that transforms into a hoodie. Your child's furry friend (think bunnies, sloths and puppies) doubles as a soft, zip-up sweatshirt, and you get to save some space in your suitcase.

Kids travel journal

A kids travel journal makes it easy for your child to document their road trip and all the fun things they see and do. Plus, many kids journals feature world maps, puzzles, fun facts and more activities to keep boredom at bay.

Road trip tips

Plan your stops.

It can be helpful and fun to plan your road trip stops ahead of time. Break up the trip with stops at a pretty park, a quirky roadside attraction or a top-rated restaurant.

Debit cards and Venmo may be the way of the world nowadays, but you may still run into a few places on your journey that are cash-only. Be on the safe side by keeping some spare cash on hand.

Download a fuel savings app

You can save some money on fuel by using apps like GasBuddy , which will show you the cheapest gas prices in your area. Go the extra mile by signing up for a gas rewards credit card to get the most bang for your buck.

You might also be interested in:

• Vacation Packing List
• The Best Kids Luggage
• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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The Difference Between Control Number And Travel Document Number

• Last updated Jun 03, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

When it comes to navigating the world of travel documents, certain numbers can hold the key to a smooth journey. Two of these numbers, the control number and the travel document number, may sound similar, but they have distinct meanings and functions. Understanding the difference between these two numbers can help travelers ensure they have the necessary information for a hassle-free travel experience. Whether it's checking in at the airport or going through customs, knowing the purpose and significance of these numbers can make all the difference.

What You'll Learn

Understanding the control number on travel documents, differentiating the control number from the travel document number, the importance of the control number for travel documentation.

• How to Locate the Control Number on your Travel Document?

When you apply for a travel document, such as a passport or visa, you may come across a term called the "Control Number." This number is an essential component of your travel document and plays a crucial role in the identification and verification process. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the control number, how to find it on your travel document, and its significance.

The control number is a unique combination of letters and/or numbers assigned to each travel document. It serves as an identifier and helps authorities in tracking and managing the document's issuance and usage. The control number is usually printed on the personal information page of your passport or visa, along with other essential details like your name, date of birth, and passport number.

Differentiating Between Control Number and Travel Document Number

While the control number and the travel document number may seem similar, they are distinct pieces of information. The travel document number is an alphanumeric code printed on your passport or visa. It acts as a unique identifier for your travel document and is used for reference and validation purposes. On the other hand, the control number is an additional identification tool that assists in managing and tracking the document's issuance and use.

Locating the Control Number

To locate the control number on your travel document, refer to the personal information page of your passport or visa. In most cases, the control number is found below the photograph and above the personal details section. It is advisable to observe the document carefully and not confuse the control number with other numbers printed on the document, such as the passport number or identification numbers specific to certain countries.

Significance of the Control Number

Understanding the significance of the control number can be helpful in various situations. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Verification: The control number acts as an additional verification tool for authorities. By cross-referencing the control number with their database, officials can establish the authenticity and validity of your travel document.
• Issuance Tracking: The control number enables authorities to keep track of the issuance process. This helps in monitoring the production and distribution of travel documents, ensuring a secure and streamlined system.
• Investigations: In case of any discrepancies or fraudulent activities, the control number can assist in investigations. By tracing the control number, authorities can gather relevant information and evidence to resolve such cases.
• Document Replacement: If your travel document is lost or stolen, providing the control number to the issuing authority can expedite the replacement process. It helps officials locate and verify your existing record, facilitating the issuance of a new document.

Understanding the control number on your travel document is crucial for various reasons. It helps authorities in verification, tracking, and investigations, ensuring the security and integrity of the document issuance system. Remember to always keep your travel document in a safe place and provide the control number when necessary, especially during replacement or renewal processes. By familiarizing yourself with this essential piece of information, you can navigate your travel journey with confidence and ease.

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When it comes to traveling, there are many important documents that you need to keep track of. Two of these documents are the control number and the travel document number. While they may sound similar, they are actually two distinct numbers that serve different purposes. In order to understand the difference between these two numbers, it's important to know what each of them means.

The control number is a unique identifier that is assigned to a specific travel document. It is typically found on the top right-hand corner of a passport or visa, and it helps to identify the document and ensure its authenticity. The control number is usually a combination of letters and numbers that are assigned by the issuing authority. It is important to keep this number safe, as it may be required for various purposes, such as retrieving or replacing a lost document.

On the other hand, the travel document number is a unique identifier that is assigned to an individual's passport or other travel document. It is typically found on the bio data page of the passport, which contains the holder's personal information, such as their name, date of birth, and nationality. The travel document number is usually a combination of letters, numbers, and sometimes special characters, and it is used to track and identify the passport or travel document throughout its validity period. This number is unique to each passport, and it should be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Now that we have a clear understanding of what the control number and the travel document number are, let's delve into the differences between them.

The control number is specific to the document itself, whereas the travel document number is specific to the individual who owns the document. The control number helps to verify the authenticity of the document, while the travel document number helps to identify the passport or travel document and link it to the individual.

Furthermore, the control number is assigned by the issuing authority and cannot be changed or modified by the passport holder. In contrast, the travel document number is assigned by the issuing authority but can be changed if the passport is renewed or replaced due to loss or damage. It's important to note that changing the travel document number does not affect the validity of the passport or its ability to serve as a valid travel document.

In summary, the control number and the travel document number are two distinct numbers that serve different purposes. The control number is a unique identifier for the document itself and helps to ensure its authenticity, while the travel document number is a unique identifier for the passport or travel document and helps to link it to the individual. It's important to keep both of these numbers safe and confidential, as they may be required for various purposes during your travels.

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When it comes to traveling, one of the most important things to remember is to have all your documentation in order. This includes your passport, visa, and any other necessary travel documents. One important feature of these documents is the control number, also known as the travel document number. This number plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth processing of your travel documents and can greatly impact your travel experience.

The control number is a unique identification number that is assigned to each travel document. It is usually located on the top or bottom right-hand corner of the document and is a combination of numbers and letters. This number is used by authorities to track and verify the authenticity of your travel document. It is essential to provide this number accurately and correctly at various stages of your travel, such as during visa application, at immigration checkpoints, and when checking in at airports.

The control number serves several important purposes. First and foremost, it helps immigration officials and border control officers quickly and efficiently retrieve information about you from their databases. This can help expedite the entry or exit process, especially during peak travel periods when there may be a high volume of travelers. By providing the control number, you are helping the authorities access your travel details, including your name, date of birth, and nationality, which can speed up your passage through immigration.

In addition, the control number is an important security feature that helps prevent fraud and identity theft. By cross-referencing the control number with their database, immigration officials can verify the authenticity of your travel document. This is crucial in detecting forged or stolen documents and ensuring that only genuine travelers are granted entry into a country. Therefore, it is important to protect the confidentiality of your control number and never share it with anyone unless necessary.

Furthermore, the control number is also used by airlines and travel agencies to facilitate the booking and reservation process. It helps them verify your identity and match your travel details with your booking information. When you book a flight, for example, you may be required to enter your control number to link your travel document with your reservation. This ensures that the correct passenger is traveling and helps avoid any confusion or mix-ups during the boarding process.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is important to make note of your control number and keep it readily accessible. You can take a photo or make a copy of your travel document and store it securely on your phone or in cloud storage. In case you lose your physical document, having a digital copy can help you quickly retrieve your control number and provide it when needed.

In conclusion, the control number is an essential component of travel documentation. It helps immigration officials verify the authenticity of your travel document, expedites the entry or exit process, and enhances security measures. It is important to accurately provide your control number at various stages of your travel and keep it secure to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. So, double-check your travel documents and make sure you have your control number handy before your next journey.

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How to locate the control number on your travel document.

When it comes to traveling, there are several important numbers associated with your travel documents that you need to be aware of. One such number is the control number. Many people often wonder if the control number is the same as the travel document number, and in this article, we will clarify this confusion and help you locate the control number on your travel document.

Firstly, let's understand what the control number is. The control number is a unique identifier that is assigned to your travel document, such as a passport or a visa. It helps in the efficient tracking of your document and prevents any mix-ups or confusion during the travel process. The control number can vary in length and format depending on the issuing authority and the type of document.

Now, coming to the question at hand - no, the control number is not the same as the travel document number. The travel document number, on the other hand, is a distinct identification number that is assigned to your specific travel document. It is different from the control number and acts as a unique identifier for your document.

To locate the control number on your travel document, you should follow these steps:

• Passport: If you are looking for the control number on your passport, you will typically find it in the top-right corner of the personal information page. It is often labeled as "Control No." or "Control Number." The control number is usually a combination of letters and numbers.
• Visa: If you are searching for the control number on your visa, it can usually be found on the visa sticker or stamp that is affixed to your passport. Look for a unique identification number on the visa sticker or stamp. This number is the control number for your visa.
• Other Travel Documents: For other travel documents, such as a travel permit or a travel authorization, the control number may be found in different locations depending on the document. Check the top or bottom of the document, as well as any accompanying cards or paperwork, for the control number.

Remember, the control number is an essential piece of information for your travel document and should be safeguarded. It is advisable to make a note of this number and keep it separate from the actual document. This way, if your travel document gets lost or stolen, you can provide the control number when reporting the incident to the authorities.

In conclusion, the control number is not the same as the travel document number. The control number is a unique identifier assigned to your travel document, while the travel document number is a distinct identification number specific to your document. To locate the control number on your travel document, refer to the steps mentioned above. Remember to keep your control number separate from the actual document for your own safety and peace of mind during your travels.

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Frequently asked questions.

No, a control number is not the same as a travel document number.

The control number on a travel document is a unique identification number assigned to the document by the issuing authority. It is used to track and verify the authenticity of the document.

The control number is typically located on the front or back of the travel document, usually near the bottom. It is a combination of letters, numbers, or both.

No, the control number is not used for travel purposes. It is for administrative and verification purposes only.

If you cannot find the control number on your travel document, you should contact the issuing authority or the appropriate agency for assistance. They will be able to provide guidance on locating the control number.

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I’ve Never Checked a Bag in My 16 Years of Cruising — Shop My 15 Fool-proof Carry-on Essentials

From Mexico to the Mediterranean, I never leave port without these sure-fire items.

Travel + Leisure / Francesca Fasciglione

Even as a longtime cruiser, one of my travel nightmares is meticulously planning outfits for a cruise — and spending the entire trip without my luggage. This can actually happen if your checked bag doesn’t arrive with you because options for delivering it to you are, well, slim. What sort of airline delivery service brings it to you on a sea day in the middle of the ocean, after all? Another logistical issue is that the ship’s only in port for a few hours and timing a luggage delivery to the closest airport would be impossible . 

Long story short: Your bag could follow you from airport to airport for an entire week and you’ll never see it. Instead of spending your trip in the clothes you traveled in (or dropping serious cash on a new wardrobe), take my advice and condense your gear to a simple carry-on so you can ensure that your belongings are always with you. 

Haven't mastered the art of carry-on-only packing yet?  Here are the 15 clothing and accessories I bring on every cruise, whether I’m going to Alaska, the Mediterranean in the shoulder season, the Caribbean, or Mexico during winter. Even better, each pick is available at Amazon and prices start at $14.

Havaianas Twist T-bar Sandals 

Choose sandals with ankle straps because, trust me, you do not want to wear thong-style flip-flops for the many hours you’ll explore the ship on a sea day. I used to own a pair of these and wore them until the soles wore out. I am already shopping for my next pair. With the sand gray pair, you could wear it with a flowy, long dress for casual dinners.

Merrell Alverstone 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes

However, for shore excursion hikes to natural wonders like Denali National Park or Virgin Islands National Park, you need a pair of comfortable athletic shoes that won’t get ruined if it rains — and you won't want to wear open-toe shoes on these activities as sandals make you more susceptible to ticks and bug bites. My Merrell hiking shoes are sturdy enough that I won’t twist an ankle. I wear these on the plane as they’re my bulkiest shoes, and they come in handy if I have to sprint to my gate on a tight layover.

Lucky Brand Wimmie Ballet Flats

On the topic of shoes, it took me a long time to find a pair of comfy black flats without thick rubber soles (skewing into casual, ugh). Heels take up more space in your luggage and stretchy ballet flats don’t provide arch support. So, what's a cruisegoer to do? I own a pair of these Lucky Brand flats and wear them with dressy slacks, skirts, and dresses for when I’ll be walking a great distance. I can’t wait to pack these for my next cruise.

Dokoto Elegant Casual Button-down Cover-up 

If you’re just bringing a carry-on, I recommend packing only one cover-up — and choosing it wisely. Polyester and rayon materials are only going to cause you to sweat on the Lido Deck. Cotton is preferred as it’s a more breathable fabric. Make sure to opt for a cover-up that can also double as a dress, like this one that's available in 15 solid shades. With the longer length, it'll provide excellent coverage to protect you from the sun and keep you looking put together when you're headed to lunch.

Cupshe Ruffled One-piece Swimsuit 

If you’re only packing one swimsuit, you can't go wrong with a one-piece. This way you can also swim with comfort, whether it’s laps at the pool or snorkeling in the ocean. At Amazon, this Cupshe bathing suit is super cute with supportive ruffled straps and flattering ruching. Its stylish design also allows it to double as a bodysuit under shorts, skirts, trousers, or jeans when you want to switch up your evening wear.

Automat Two-piece Matching Set 

If you’re like me, sea days are for roaming the ship, and logging a lot of steps at that. Instead of yoga pants and a T-shirt, a two-piece lounge set keeps the comfy vacation vibe going strong without looking too sloppy. Plus, the shirt doubles as an extra layer in air-conditioned dining rooms or when you need extra sun protection at the pool.

Zaful V-neck Ribbed Button-up Cardigan

The day before I was to board a river cruise in Burgundy, France, I realized I’d need a sweater for a temperature drop over the next few days. I popped into an H&M on the Champs-Elysées in Paris and bought a chunky-knit, cropped beige cardigan. It’s a near twin to this one from Zaful, which is $36 right now at Amazon. I pack this on cruises as cabins can get chilly. A knee-length cardigan takes up way too much room in your luggage, unless you wear it on the plane.

Zomake Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack

When I plan to walk while in port, I pack a bright-orange packable backpack (one that condenses to a small size) that’s different than my personal-item backpack I wore on the flight. This one is very similar to the one I own. It's stocked with plenty of pockets to hold your essentials while you explore, and it’s water-resistant in case you spill a bottle of water inside or it’s raining outside.

Kalidi Beach Mesh Tote Bag

As cute as they are, unless you plan to bring a woven straw beach bag as your purse or carry-on for the flight, it’s better to use a canvas tote bag or foldable beach bag like this one for taking a book, sunblock, sunglasses, and other items to the Lido Deck. Luckily, it's cute and functional enough to double as a beach bag once you're bag home, and you can even get away with using it as a purse while you're cruising.

Tronjori High-waist Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants

It’s nice to have a pair of black. loose-fitting, wide-leg dress slacks to wear to dinner with a tucked-in blouse or cropped top. Without drawstrings or spandex, the pants no longer look like slouchy yoga pants or loungewear. Here, the expandable waistline helps if you swell due to the heat or are indulging at the buffet. Bonus: these are wrinkle-free and easily roll up in your carry-on (but they're comfy enough to wear on the flight if you need to).

Sueani Loose V-neck Bell-sleeve Blouse

Two or three dressy tops are enough for me to mix and match with my not-so-formal pants and skirts. Instead of deciding between my short-sleeved and long-sleeved options, I like to bring three-quarter-length sleeved tops to get the best of both worlds. This top, which comes in 31 solid hues, won over Amazon shoppers with its flattering fit and versatile look. Remember: it's always solid, not patterned when only bringing a carry-on. Trust me, they'll go a long way with the rest of your cruise wardrobe. 

Lilbetter Short-sleeve V-neck Dress With Pockets

For cruises, I pack knee-length over floor-length dresses, even if they’re casual, as that extra fabric multiplied by however many dresses you bring takes up more packing room. This one — with its pockets, short sleeves, and V-neck — could easily segue from strolling in port to sitting down for dinner in a specialty restaurant on the ship. Navy blue would be a fun color to match the nautical surroundings, but it's also available in 29 other colors.

Bloggerlove Rain Jacket Hooded Trench Coat

You’re going to need a lightweight windbreaker for more than a rainstorm. The ship’s top deck can get windy at night, for example. Also, for excursions like viewing the Kenai Fjords in Seward, Alaska, it’s chilly while out on the water. Sadly, my beloved J.Crew windbreaker trench coat is now from several seasons ago, but I found one just like it on Amazon, with an elastic waist for a similar tailored look a hood, and lots of pockets. Plus, it's packable, so you don't have to wear it on the plane or worry about it hogging up space in your carry-on.

Back from Bali Women’s Sheer Shrug Cardigan

Air-conditioned dining rooms on cruise ships can get chilly, so it’s helpful to have a shrug or wrap that doesn’t bulk up your dressy outfit (or take away precious carry-on space). This lightweight cropped cardigan — particularly in the elegant beige hue — can adapt to formal and casual, while also matching with floral and neutral, dark-colored dresses.

Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses

Don’t pack huge Jackie O-like sunglasses that require a case the size of a small lunchbox. Go for a slim, lightweight pair instead. These tortoise-shell frames would look good on anybody and are affordable enough that if you lose them while on a bumpy catamaran ride, you won’t be out a lot of money. What's more, they're polarized and block 100 percent of the sun's UVB and UVA rays.

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Essential Travel Documents (Besides Your Passport)

• January 17, 2022
• Lauren Stuttaford

When you are traveling, you need to have your wits about you. Not to mention checklists galore! Specifically when it comes to your travel documents.

Unfortunately, the pandemic has made traveling a little more complicated, especially when it comes to the extra paperwork.

Thankfully the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Travel Bans has put together country-specific info about COVID restrictions and travel document requirements for international travelers.

Of course, trusty Google will also lead you in the right direction, like to this article. Since regulations are changing so often, it’s important to keep checking – especially in the days leading up to your trip.

It’s also important to remember that specific airlines, cruise lines, and other transport providers have their own rules for passengers – so be sure to check those before your zip up your suitcase and head out the door.

What Travel Documents Do I Need?

Identification (besides your passport).

But before we skip over this one: Your passport is one of the most important documents when traveling abroad. Make sure your passport has at least six months left until it expires. This is an entry requirement for some countries.

Travelers going via land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and other Caribbean countries can make do with just a passport card. But if you’re crossing borders via airplane, then you’ll need your full passport.

Whether you’re traveling overseas for an exotic expedition or venturing nearby to explore your local realm, you need to bring along proper identification documents. As of October 2021, all domestic travelers in the US are required to have a Real ID – an identification card that meets the standards laid out by the US government in the Real ID Act of 2005.

Copies Of All Identification Documents

It’s not just a good idea to bring copies of your identification documents; it’s a very good idea. It’s not fun losing your identification and travel documents – especially when you’re on foreign soil.

So, pack in multiple copies of multiple identification documents to cover you in various situations. Lost the original identification? You now have copies to get new ones or at least return home. It is also a good idea to make digital copies, so you have them on your phone or laptop.

Speaking of digital copies, the new mobile passport app allows US citizens to breeze through customs when they return from an international trip – it might also be a lifesaver if you misplace your passport during your trip. At the moment, mobile passports are available for use at four cruise ports and 28 airports nationwide.

When it comes to international travel, most countries require travelers to obtain visas – whether ahead of time or upon arrival. In-advance visa processes can be lengthy, so make sure you do your research and allow for plenty of time before your flight departs to get your documents in order.

Proof of Insurance

Some countries (and more are joining the ranks) require proof of travel medical insurance or health insurance for entry. In some instances, they require a certain amount of coverage or specific types of care related to COVID-19, especially for travelers who are unvaccinated. Make sure you check the requirements for your destination and then review your insurance policy to find out if you need additional coverage.

Regardless of COVID, travel insurance comes in handy for delays and cancellations. You might also need auto insurance coverage if you’re planning on driving abroad.

Did you know many travel insurance companies have mobile apps which hold your travel insurance plans? Check with your provider to find out how you can best keep your proof of insurance documents on hand during your travels.

Medication Documentation

Another important one on the travel documents list is your medication documentation. If you take prescription or over-the-counter medication, it’s important to check local regulations for your destination. Some substances may be subject to different regulations in different countries, or they might be illegal. You might even need to bring along a written prescription, and can only carry a limited supply of certain drugs.

It’s always best to check with your destination country’s embassy for the most recent requirements. Here is the CDC’s guide to traveling with medication .

Locator Forms

Some countries require international visitors to complete digital locator forms before their arrival. You might be asked to provide your contact information, in-country address, flight or other itinerary information, and vaccination and testing status. It’s essential to check the requirements for your destination – sometimes, these travel documents are due within 48-72 hours before your arrival.

Travel Itinerary Details

Whether you only have one reservation or several, when it comes to travel documents, you’ll want to keep copies of your itinerary handy while you’re traveling. This will prove useful in many ways. Keep digital and hard copy proof that you’ve already paid for all your tickets, hotel bookings, and other tickets to avoid any questions if you arrive and your reservation is missing. And if you don’t have an itinerary yet, here are our top tips for shopping around for travel deals .

If you need to give your travel insurance company a call for any reason, you’ll have all the details right with you to explain your situation without any hesitation. Also, sometimes we just forget things! So have a reminder available for when you need it.

Return Tickets

Some countries require travelers to have proof that they plan to exit within a certain number of days. A return ticket or onward ticket to a different destination might be requested at the border. So, keep a digital and hard copy with you just in case.

COVID-19 Travel Documents

Now for the fun part! While we aren’t quite sure what travel holds at the moment, common trends are already being set. Travel document requirements for COVID-19 are doubly important to ensure your trip doesn’t face any delays or cancellations.

COVID-19 Test Results

One common requirement for entry into most destinations is proof of a negative COVID-19 test within a specific timeframe. Keep in mind testing policies vary from country to country. Some require a negative test even if you’re vaccinated, and some specifically require PCR versus antigen testing.

Make sure you know the rules; otherwise, you might have to undergo COVID-19 testing upon your arrival and quarantine in the meantime. Keep physical and digital copies of your results with you.

When you’re returning, make sure you find out about testing requirements for getting back into your own country.

Here’s our guide to the latest COVID travel requirements per country .

Proof Of Vaccination

Just like testing requirements, vaccination requirements vary by country, but if you are vaccinated against COVID, you’ll want to have proof with you. It’s recommended you carry your physical card, a digital copy, or a photo of your physical card. And while you’re at it, be sure to double-check which vaccines are accepted by your destination country.

And remember that just because COVID is the talk of the town, it doesn’t mean it’s the only vaccination you need to travel. Stay up to date with routine vaccinations in your own country and check to see if your destination requires other kinds of vaccinations for entry.

Now that you know the travel documents needed, you can plan your trip with greater peace of mind. Plus, being overprepared is far better than being underprepared. You don’t want to be stranded without something you need while you’re abroad. And if there is a digital option or app alternative, consider that over carrying a folder filled with papers.

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UAE visit visa: Essential travel documents for a hassle-free entry

Living in uae.

Coming to the UAE for a summer break? Three things to ensure before you land

Dubai: Planning to visit the UAE for a quick summer break? If you are travelling to the country on a tourist or visit visa, what are the documents you need to carry, apart from your passport?

Gulf News spoke with travel and tourism experts in the UAE to clarify all the arrangements you need to have in place before you land.

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1. secure your return flight ticket.

Husham Kattingeri, an outbound travel supervisor at Regal Tours Worldwide, spoke about how tourists should always have a return ticket in place, regardless of which country they are visiting.

“The first thing that is compulsory for anybody, not just in the UAE but anywhere in the world, is that you must show a return ticket, either to your home country or even if it is to another country, as long as you have a valid visa for that country. That means that a ticket out of UAE must be there, you cannot have a one-way ticket,” Kattingeri said.

2. Consider carrying cash

Kattingeri said that regardless of which country you travel to, it is advisable to carry sufficient amount cash, to cover for your expenses when travelling.

“It is better to have some amount of money with you, which you will need anyway during your trip. It helps,” he said.

It is better to have some amount of money with you, which you will need anyway during your trip. It helps. - Husham Kattingeri, an outbound travel supervisor at Regal Tours Worldwide

3. Hotel booking confirmation (optional, but beneficial)

Nizar Pulappadi, manager at Season Travel and Tourism, added that while in most cases you may not be asked for any such details, it is important to know exactly where you are going to stay.

If you have a relative or friend, all you need to do is carry their passport copy and visa page, as supporting documents, in case you are asked about where you are going to stay. - Nizar Pulappadi, manager at Season Travel and Tourism

“If a person is a visit visa holder, and they don’t have any relatives or friends in the UAE, it is important to have a hotel booking. But if you do have a relative or friend, all you need to do is carry their passport copy and visa page, as supporting documents, in case you are asked about where you are going to stay. It is also important to communicate clearly, so if you are asked by an officer where you are going to stay, provide a clear address or the area in which your friend or relative stays,” Pulappadi said.

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Essential Travel Documents for Canada: What You Need to Know

Planning a trip to canada make sure you have the necessary travel documents with you. this list includes documents like a valid passport, visa (if required), proof of financial support, and a letter of invitation (if applicable). by carrying the right documentation, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience while traveling to canada..

Key Takeaways:

• Planning a trip to Canada? Make sure you have a valid passport, visa/eTA, proof of funds, and travel insurance .
• Additional documents may be required depending on your circumstances, such as study permits or parental consent letters.
• Preparing for border control is important – have all your travel documents accessible and be ready to answer questions.

Essential Documents for Traveling to Canada

If you’re planning a trip to Canada, preparing the right documentation ahead of your travel is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Canada has specific entry requirements, and having all necessary documents ready when you arrive can make the process much easier. Below is a checklist of documents you should have with you when traveling to Canada.

Your most important travel document is your passport. It should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada. For some countries, Canada requires that the passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure.

Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada:

• Visa : Travelers from countries that are not visa-exempt must apply for a visitor visa before arriving in Canada. You can check if you need a visa here .
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) : Visa-exempt foreign nationals are required to have an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. Apply for an eTA on this page .

Proof of Funds

You will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada. This could be in the form of bank statements, a letter from an employer, or proof of a scholarship if you are a student.

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Trudeau government increases visas for palestinians by fivefold, canada announces haiti crisis aid measures, travel insurance.

Although not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Canada. It can cover unforeseen medical expenses, which can be very high for tourists.

Return Ticket

Immigration officers may ask to see proof of your intent to leave Canada at the end of your visit. A return ticket or an itinerary showing your travel plans can serve this purpose.

Accommodation Details

It’s wise to have details of where you will be staying in Canada, like a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from friends or family you’ll be staying with.

Letter of Invitation

If you’re visiting family or friends, a letter of invitation from them can help explain the purpose of your trip.

Additional Travel Documents

Depending on your individual circumstances, you might need additional documents, such as:

• Study or work permits if you intend to study or work in Canada.
• A parental consent letter if a minor is traveling without both parents.
• Any legal documents, like divorce papers, custody documents, or death certificates, if relevant to your travel situation.

Preparing for Border Control

Upon arrival in Canada, be ready to answer questions from the border control officers. Carry all your travel documents in your hand luggage, easily accessible for inspection. Be honest and forthright in your answers.

“Entry into Canada is not guaranteed, so you should have all your documentation ready and be prepared to clearly state the purpose of your visit,” advises a representative from the Canada Border Services Agency.

Final Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Double-check the expiration dates on all your travel documents.
• Make digital copies of important documents and keep them in your email or on a secure cloud service.
• Check the official Government of Canada website for updates on travel requirements before your trip.

By ensuring you have all the necessary documentation, you can look forward to experiencing the beauty and diversity of Canada without any unnecessary hiccups. Safe travels!

So there you have it, my tech-savvy pals! Make sure you’ve got your passport, visa or eTA, proof of funds, and all the other essentials ready for your Canadian adventure. Don’t forget travel insurance and that all-important return ticket! And hey, if you want more juicy info and tips, head on over to visaverge.com. Happy travels, eh!

FAQ’s to know:

1. What documents are required to enter Canada? To enter Canada, you will need a valid passport, a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) depending on your country of origin, proof of funds to support yourself, and travel insurance (recommended). Additional documents may be required based on your specific circumstances, such as study or work permits, parental consent letter for minors, and relevant legal documents.

2. How do I apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to Canada? To apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to Canada, visit the official Government of Canada website and complete the online application. You will need your passport, a valid email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the processing fee. The eTA is mandatory for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to or transiting through a Canadian airport.

3. What should I do to prepare for border control when traveling to Canada? To prepare for border control when traveling to Canada, ensure you have all your travel documents easily accessible in your hand luggage, including your passport, visa or eTA, proof of funds, travel insurance, and proof of intended departure. Be honest and ready to answer questions from the border control officers. Double-check the expiration dates of your documents, make digital copies for backup, and stay informed about any updates on travel requirements through the official Government of Canada website.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• What is the required validity period for your passport when traveling to Canada? a) 1 month beyond the date of expected departure b) 3 months beyond the date of expected departure c) 6 months beyond the date of expected departure d) 12 months beyond the date of expected departure
• What is the purpose of an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when traveling to Canada? a) To apply for a visitor visa b) To provide proof of funds c) To show proof of a return ticket d) To fly to or transit through a Canadian airport
• Which of the following additional documents might be required when traveling to Canada? a) Proof of funds b) Travel insurance c) A parental consent letter d) Accommodation details

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Grape basics: the essential guide to chardonnay.

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Signpost on row of chardonnay grapevines in vineyard at sunset

Everything you need to know about America’s favorite white grape.

Chardonnay is the world’s most popular white wine, and for good reason. It’s made from green-skinned grapes that adapt to a variety of climates, and they produce versatile wines in many price points. Chardonnay can be crisp and clean, or rich and oaky. There’s something for everyone, which is why Chardonnay is so beloved.

What does Chardonnay taste like?

Chardonnay is known as a winemaker’s grape, because it can grow in many climates and it’s easy to work with in the cellar. It allows a winemaker creative license to make it light and elegant, or full-bodied and buttery. Chardonnay can taste different, depending on where it grows and how it’s made. But typically, Chardonnay is a dry, medium- to full-bodied wine with moderate acidity and alcohol. Its flavors range from apple and lemon to papaya and pineapple, and it also shows notes of vanilla when it’s aged with oak.

What are the flavors in Chardonnay?

Primary : Chardonnay’s flavors swing from lemon zest and chalky minerality to baked apple and tropical fruits like pineapple. There are two reasons for this wide range in flavors: climate and harvest date. The cooler the climate, the more citrus notes become apparent in the grapes. The same applies to grapes that are harvested earlier. In warmer climates and later harvests, grapes develop more sugar and lose some acidity. Its flavors develop into riper, richer fruits. These are called primary flavors, because they derive directly from the grape.

Secondary : Chardonnay also has secondary flavors, or notes, that come from the winemaking process. The first set of flavors includes coconut, vanilla and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They come from the use of oak. Factors that affect the flavors and their intensity include origin of the wood (French v. American), shape of the wood (barrels, chips or staves), toast level, and length of time in contact with the oak. The second flavor that comes from winemaking is diacetyl which gives that “buttery” character wine experts talk about. Diacetyl is a byproduct of a process called malolactic fermentation, or MLF. Grapes contain malic acid, which tastes like tart green apples. When a (good) bacteria called Oenococcus oeni converts that malic acid into lactic acid, either naturally or by a winemaker addition, that green-apple note softens or disappears, while diacetyl – the buttery note – increases. Winemakers encourage this conversion to reduce the perception of sharp acidity in favor of the rounder, creamier lactic acid, with notes of, well, butter.

Refreshing White Chardonnay in a Glass.

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Why is Chardonnay so popular?

This white grape has a long, noble history, which starts with its Old World roots in Burgundy. Some of most coveted, and therefore expensive, Chardonnays in the world come from this region in France. Chardonnay is also one of three base grapes for Champagne, and it’s the sole grape in Blanc de blancs Champagne. Eventually, the grape made its way to California, where it became the most widely planted white variety in the state. America fell in love with Chardonnay because it produces a wine that appeals to a wide audience.

What’s the difference between unoaked and oaked Chardonnay?

You’ve probably seen winemakers or brands promote their Chardonnay as oaked or unoaked. A winemaker who wants their Chardonnay to taste crisp and bright often uses stainless steel to ferment and store the wine before bottling. This limits the influence of oxygen and retains the wine’s fresh character. When a winemaker seeks to create a fuller-bodied wine with secondary flavors of vanilla and spice, they can ferment and age the wine in oak or ferment in stainless steel and age in oak afterwards. Oaked Chardonnay often undergoes partial or full MLF while in barrel, as well as sees contact with the lees (dead yeast). The vanilla and spice flavors, plus round, creamy texture from micro-oxygenation, lees contact, and MLF produce a wine that is the stylistic opposite of unoaked Chardonnay.

Where is the best Chardonnay produced?

There’s no such thing as the “best Chardonnay.” A better question is: what style of Chardonnay do you like to drink? The differences between wines of different regions are largely due to climate and winemaking traditions. Thus, we can break down Chardonnay between cool versus warm regions and old world versus new world, within that context.

Cool Climate Chardonnay: Cooler regions can be found in both the old and new world. Cooler climate Chardonnay typically has more acidity, citrus flavors, and mineral character, and is lighter bodied, lighter in alcohol, and more elegant.

· Old World : Burgundy (FR), Champagne (FR), Germany, Austria, Northern Italy.

· New World : Ontario (CAN), Sonoma Coast (Ca), Anderson Valley (Ca), Willamette Valley (Or), Tasmania (AUS), Mornington Peninsula (AUS), New Zealand, Casablanca and Leyda Valley (Chile).

Warm Climate Chardonnay: Most warm climate Chardonnay regions fall within the new world. Warm climate Chardonnay typically has less acidity, and more opulent, ripe fruit flavors from yellow peach to papaya and pineapple. Wines are usually fuller bodied with higher alcohol.

· Old World: Much of Spain, Southern Italy, though these distinctions are changing with a warming world.

· New World : Most of California, South Australia, much of South Africa.

Closeup hand with glass of white wine on background wooden oak barrels stacked in straight rows in ... [+] order, old cellar of winery, vault.

Does Chardonnay have sugar in it? How about calories and carbs?

Chardonnay is usually made in a dry style. This means that after the grapes are pressed, the sugar from the grape must is converted into alcohol by yeast. When all of the sugar is converted, it creates a fully dry wine. Sometimes, a little sugar called residual sugar (RS), is left behind. This might be purposeful, to give a hint of richness and sweetness to the wine, or it might be because the yeast didn’t finish the fermentation. A few grams per liter of RS is still considered a dry wine, however. Of course, a wine without sugar doesn’t equate to a wine without calories. Alcohol has calories. Typically, a 5-ounce serving of Chardonnay has 120 calories, and there’s 625 calories in the typical 750ml bottle. If a Chardonnay has a touch of residual sugar, the wine will have carbohydrates or carbs, but only a small amount. Dry wines usually range between zero and 4 grams of carbohydrates.

How should I serve Chardonnay?

Like all whites, Chardonnay should be served chilled. If the wine is too warm, the alcohol tastes hot while the flavors are muddled. Too cold, and the aromas and flavors are muted. The best temperature range is 50–55°F, which can be achieved by two hours in the refrigerator or 30–40 minutes in an ice-water bath. If you don’t finish a bottle of Chardonnay, replace the cork and stick it back in the fridge. The flavors will stay fresh for 2–4 days. Beyond that, the wine will start to oxidize. At that point, it’s best used for cooking.

Fresh ocean oysters with slices of lemon on ice. Top view. Copy cpace.

What foods pair best with Chardonnay?

One reason that people love Chardonnay is its versatility, thanks to the range of styles on the market. Crisp, pure, unoaked Chardonnay like many Chablis goes great as an apéritif with fresh cheeses like goat cheese, as well as oysters, shellfish or delicate fish. Medium-bodied expressions pair well with firmer fish like swordfish, white meats like chicken and pork tenderloin, and aged cheeses like gruyere and gouda. Fat, rich, oaky styles with higher alcohol can handle heavier cream sauces, grilled meats with higher fat content, and even game birds. The key is to match the wine’s weight with the weight of the food.

How is Chardonnay different from Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc?

These wines come from different white grapes. A grape is called a variety. A wine made from one grape is called a varietal wine.

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