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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!
The Ultimate Packing List
This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:
- Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
- Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
- General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently
This is the Table of Contents:
- Printable Travel Checklist
- Packing List For Luggage
- Packing List For Clothes
- Packing List For Toiletries
- Packing List For First Aid Kit
- Packing List For Makeup
- Packing List For Hair and Grooming
- Packing List For Electronics
- Packing List For Backpacking Gear
- Travel Documents and Money
- Travel Safety
- Pre-trip Checklist
- General Packing Tips
Printable Travel Checklist
Click here to access the editable Google Doc printable checklist that corresponds to this article. You can also download the print-friendly, PDF version here.
You can click the image below to open the editable file.
The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:
- you can write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
- you can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
- and most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item
Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!
Packing List by Categories
Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.
Luggage
I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.
Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.
If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel.
You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.
In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!
- Packing Cubes for Clothes
- Packing Organizer for Accessories
- Packing Organizer for Electronics
- Makeup Bag
- Toiletry Bag
- Shoe Bag
- First Aid (if applicable)
- Document Holder
- Other Organizers (as needed)
- Daypack/Personal item
Read this to find out more about why packing cubes are essential – our readers swear by them and so do we!
Clothes
No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?
These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe. These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.
In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel. It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.
- Top 1
- Top 2
- Top 3
- Top 4
- Top 5
- Bottom 1
- Bottom 2
- Bottom 3
- Dress (or other) 1
- Dress (or other) 2
Visit our travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants, convertible travel dresses, and the best cold weather items.
Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.
You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.
Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel.
For underwear, we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear.
- Outerwear 1
- Outerwear 2
- Sleepwear 1
- Sleepwear 2
- Workout 1
- Workout 2
- Underwear 1-10
- Bra 1
- Bra 2
- Bra 3
- Socks 1-3
- Swimsuit 1
- Swimsuit 2
Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!
Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.
For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.
We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats, walking shoes, travel sandals, hiking shoes, waterproof boots, ankle boots, and more.
- Shoes 1
- Shoes 2
- Shoes 3
- Hat
- Belt
- Purse – Day
- Purse – Night
- Wallet
- Scarf
- Jewelry
- Sunglasses
- Sunglasses Case
- Watch (or Travel Clock)
- Gloves (if applicable)
Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.
Toiletries
Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.
“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the the amount you’ll use for your trip.
Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Shower Cap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Leave-In Conditioner
- Soap/Body Wash
- Loofah
- Razor
- Deodorant/Antiperspirant
- Body Moisturizer
- Face Moisturizer
- Sunblock
Optional Toiletries:
- Eye Cream
- Baby Powder (hot climates)
- Pumice Stone
- Hair Styling Product
- Female Urinal Device
- Tampons
- Menstrual Cup
- Toilet Paper
Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip.
First Aid Kit (optional)
Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit”.
- Prescription Medication
- Contact Solution (if needed)
- Pain Relievers
- Band-aids
- Travel-size Tissue Packet
- Digestion Tablets
- Upset Stomach Medication
- Allergy Pills
- Motion Sickness Tablets
- Antibacterial wipes/gel
- Bug Repellant (Deet)
- Travel Size Sewing Kit
- Other
Makeup
Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.
- Eyebrow Pencil
- Concealer
- Foundation
- Powder
- Eye shadow palette
- Lipstick/lip gloss
- Blush
- Mascara
- Eye Liner
Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.
Hair / Grooming
Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.
Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.
- Hair Ties
- Hair Clips
- Bobby Pins
- Travel Size Hair Brush
- Travel Size Mirror
- Tweezers
Optional Hair / Grooming:
- Travel Size Blow Dryer
- 1″ Flat Iron
- Nail Clipper
- Nail Buff
- Other
Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling.
Electronics
The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.
If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad. Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.
- International Travel Adapter
- Phone
- Phone Charger
- Phone Cover
- Camera
- Camera Charger
- Camera Battery 1
- Camera Battery 2
- Camera Memory Card 1
- Camera Memory Card 2
- Camera Cover
- Memory Stick (with important info)
- e-Reader
- e-Reader Charger
- e-Reader Cover
Optional Electronics:
- Tablet
- Tablet Charger
- Tablet Cover
- Laptop
- Laptop Charger
- Laptop Cover
- Laptop Case
- Screen Protector
- Keyboard Protector
- Selfie Stick
- External Hard Drive
- External Hard Drive Cord
- Portable Power Bank
- Portable Power Bank Cord
- Music Device
- Music Device Charger
Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight.
Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear
(if applicable)
If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.
Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.
- Headlamp
- Sleeping Bag Liner
- 2 Travel Locks
- Travel Towel
- Ear Plugs
- Swiss Army Knife
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Packable Tote
- Mosquito Net
- Pillow Case
- Spork
- Duct Tape
- Laundry Bag
- Laundry Line
- Sink Plug
- Eye Mask
- Travel Pillow
- Dry Bag
- Disposable Poncho
- Travel Size Umbrella
- Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)
If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post.
If you’re staying at hostels, read this post.
If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.
Travel Documents and Money
With the exception your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.
- Passport
- Passport Copy
- Passport Holder
- Boarding Pass
- Itinerary (some airlines require this printed when you have to check in in-person)
- Visas in passport (if needed)
- Immunization Records (if there are health requirements such as yellow fever)
- Emergency Cash in USD (enough for one full day)
- Credit Cards
- Drivers License / Alternate Form of ID
- Guidebook
- Language Guide
- Notebook (to note addresses in paper, not phone)
- Pen (to fill out immigration forms)
- Emergency Contact Info
- Travel Insurance
- Copies of all travel documents (in memory card, USB stick, or stored in email)
Travel Safety
Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings such as using one of these anti-theft devices.
Anti-theft products that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!
While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.
- RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
- Money Belt
- Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)
Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling.
Pre-Trip Checklist
These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.
- Call banks to inform of travel plans
- Immunizations
- Check weather at destination
- Check baggage restrictions
- Check visa regulations
- Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)
Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.
General Packing Tips
In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.
The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!
The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:
Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube!
As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes. When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint.
The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.
Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!
Destination Packing Lists
We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!
And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “Stop Overpacking“. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.
Learn more about Stop Overpacking here!
What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!
For destinations, please read:
- Europe Packing Lists
- Asia Packing Lists
- Africa Packing Lists
- North America Packing Lists
- South America Packing Lists
- South Pacific Packing Lists
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I pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested.
Hi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂
I’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack.
I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try).
Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂
Thank you Theresa!
Hi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx
Hi Liz, read this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-singapore-vacation-tips-from-local-fashion-blogger/
I love detailed lists – helped me stay organized when I travel. Thank you for this!
Great post! I will go to Sicily soon and this look like a great way to start organizing my trip.
Thanks Patrizia!
Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.
Glad you like it Michala!
As always I love reading all your post, but this one is probably my favorite!! It’s packed with really helpful tips, it’s something I always come back to, and is in many cases encouraging…. Lol but that couldn’t be any more true!!
Yay!!! Glad you enjoyed it even more than the others 🙂
This list makes me happy! Im an excel spreadhseet list make and this is perfect for a base to customize. Thanks!
Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂
So in going through the Ultimate Packing List (thank you for this by the way), I have a question about the clothes the traveler is wearing! I assume that’s included in the 10 items, but per the packing list, they are packed in something. You don’t get an extra set of clothes on top of the 10 items, right?? 🙂
For my Russia packing list (pre-UPL), I listed out all the items and then listed what was going in my suitcase, what in my backpack and then finally, what I was wearing! 😀
Great job for your trip to Russia Julie! That’s right, no extra clothes for travel – they are included in the ten items. However, ten is a good number to use as a guideline but it’s okay to go up or down a few items, too 😉
Hi, this is so helpful for me so I do not forget anything. The older I get and the more I travel, forgetting something seems to happen far too often. But not any longer!
Glad you like it Gayle!
I have been using these packing lists this Spring and Summer and they have totally changed the way I plan and pack for a trip! I love being able to customize it. The main thing this did was make me think about WHERE I wanted to put everything. I then also added a little “how many times I wore it/used it” column so I could analyze at the end as well and start planning for the next trip. Thank you so much for these organizers!
Wow that’s a great idea, good job Nadja!
So excited to use this packing list for my three big trips next year: mediterranean cruise, Machu Picchu and Cairo/Nile Cruise/Jordan!!
AMAZING destinations!
Great packing list post, we just spent 4 weeks in Alaska and now we are off to FiJi. Your packing list is a huge help.
That’s awesome David, thanks!
Great post! This is very helpful for people who need help on what to pack!
Thanks Valerie!
Thank you for making this packing list editable! I’m particularly loving the “How to Pack It” column, which is missing on so many other lists. It really helps me figure out which packing cubes/organizers to use, how to place it in my bag and also to mentally include clothing I’ll wear while traveling.
Thanks Megan! Glad you liked the “How to Pack It” column 🙂
Excellent packing list!! This will be very useful for me!
Thanks Helene!
Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂
Right now I am packing for my trip to Italy and I am using only your list. It is amazing. For the first time I feel that I do not overpack, that I have everything what I really need, and that I won’t forget any stuff.
Your blog has changed completety the way I pack.
Thank you 🙂 xoxoxo
Yay! That’s great to hear, thank you Justine!
Great post! One question: Do the clothing lists include items you’re wearing, or just what’s in your bag? Also, I always bring dental floss; in addition to keeping my gums healthy, it’s awesome for sewing!
They include all clothes including what you wear on a flight 😉 Dental floss is a good add!
Perfect timing for my trip to Europe next month. Thanks!
Glad you like it Kim!
Wonderful, detailed list. I recommend your site to anyone asking about travel and packing light. Especially friends who want to travel and still look fashionable!
Thank you Kim 🙂
This is so comprehensive! I plan on referencing this next time I travel. Thank you for the breakdown.
Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂
Love it! You thought of everything! Will use this on my next trip (instead of recreating a new list which I seem to always do). Thanks!
Yay!!!! Glad you like it 😀
Love having all of this info in one post! Thanks for the tips!
While I enjoy all your posts, this one is SERIOUSLY the best I’ve seen on your site – or any site, for that matter! Thanks so much for gathering this all together for your readers. You’ve thought of everything!!!
Ah-maz-ing! Just what I needed!!!
🙂