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Vacation packing lists: essentials you can't forget.

These vacation packing lists can help you prepare for any type of trip.

Vacation Packing List

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Getting ready for a vacation is a fun yet at times daunting task. But with some preparation and a comprehensive checklist, the packing process for any adventure can be easy. To make it smoother, our editors compiled these vacation packing lists, using insights from their own experiences and advice from travel experts.

Vacation packing lists:

Beach packing list, cruise packing list, international trip packing list, road trip packing list, weekend getaway packing list.

Time by the water and sand calls for cool and comfortable attire that dries fast and works for the types of activities you're planning to do. When planning your beach packing list , check with your accommodations to see what they will have available to use during your stay.

Start with a beach bag that perhaps can double as a personal item bag. Beach days call for sun protection, so you'll want plenty of sunscreen – and depending on where you're going, reef-safe sunscreen may be required, so do your research before you pack. Beach towels or blankets , chairs , umbrellas or beach tents , toys , and games are all items that you might be able to use during your visit, but may not need to pack in your suitcase.

Clothing and shoes:

• Beach cover-ups
• Dinner attire such as linen shirts, skirts or pants
• Water shoes
• Undergarments

Toiletries:

• Conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush or comb
• Razor and shaving cream
• Lip balm with SPF
• Medications
• Cotton swabs
• First-aid kit
• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion

Beach gear:

• Beach wagon
• Beach towels
• Towel clips
• Umbrella or beach tent
• Reusable water bottle
• Prescription eyeglasses or contacts
• Beach games
• Portable speaker
• Reading material

When creating your cruise packing list , keep in mind that you'll have limited space in your cabin, so it's essential to plan a wardrobe that is concise and multipurpose. Consult your itinerary to see what specific items you may need for any theme nights or dress codes for dining reservations. Select a personal item bag that you'll carry on the cruise with you, equipped with essentials like your passport, money, medications, a change of clothing and anything you may need while you're awaiting your bags.

For daytime attire, consider the climate, as well as excursions and activities so you know what items you'll need. Check out our guide on what to wear on a cruise for more inspiration.

• Mix-and-match clothing
• Formal attire
• Themed party attire
• Travel wrap
• Packable jacket
• Packable hats
• Underwear and necessary undergarments
• Comfortable walking shoes
• 2-3 pairs of pants
• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 5-7 tops or shirts of different styles
• Swim cover-up
• Sea-Bands and/or Dramamine for nausea
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• After-sun lotion
• Face cleanser
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet spray like Poo-Pourri

Cruise gear:

• Credit cards and local currency
• Carry-on bag
• Packing cubes
• International travel adapter or converter
• Magnetic hooks
• Garment bag and wrinkle release spray
• Beach bag or backpack
• Over-the-door organizer
• Digital luggage scale
• Collapsible luggage
• Luggage tracker
• A good book or e-reader

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Traveling abroad is exciting, but it can also bring long travel days with more walking than you may anticipate. Having a broken-in pair of comfortable walking shoes is key, and you may want to consider a pair of compression socks to keep you comfortable on the long flight.

A carry-on suitcase that can accommodate everything you need will be helpful when you're trying to navigate through airports and train stations – and it'll make it easier to get to your room if there's not an elevator. You may also want to consider a foldable tote for daytime trips and shopping, which you can also use for any souvenirs you want to bring home.

• Walking shoes
• Rain jacket
• Sweater or cardigan for layering
• 2-3 pairs of pants with pockets
• 2-3 pairs of shorts (depending on climate)
• 3-6 shirts or tops
• An evening/dinner outfit (such as a dress or skirt and top for women, and pants and a button-down shirt for men)
• Facial cleanser and moisturizer
• First-aid kit with bandages

Travel gear:

• Passport wallet
• Travel documents
• Travel adapter or converter
• Neck pillow

Hitting the open road is a fun adventure, though it requires some preparation. Since you're driving, you'll have extra room for bags and gear, but you'll also want to pack road trip essentials . Climate will play a big role in the types of clothes you'll want to pack, so look at the forecasts for weather on your entire route. In addition to temps, you'll be sitting in the car for long periods of time, so your travel outfits should be comfortable and easy to wear (for those quick bathroom breaks at a wayside rest).

• 2-3 pairs of pants or shorts (depending on climate)
• Light jacket or sweater
• Comfortable shoes
• 4-6 pairs of socks
• Specific clothing for plans along the way, like hiking boots for hikes

Road trip gear:

• Car emergency kit
• Solar rechargeable power source for phones
• Neck pillow(s)
• Book or tablet
• Packable tote

Preparing for a quick weekend getaway might seem like it'll be easy, but since you'll only be gone a few days, you might find it difficult to decide what to pack. Finding a functional weekender bag can help you make the packing process easy. Choose a pair of shoes to travel and a second pair to change into for the evening or specific activities. When planning your outfits, create a mix-and-match capsule wardrobe so you're not overpacking for a quick getaway.

• 2-3 shirts or tops
• 2 pairs of pants or shorts
• Dress or dress pants and dress shirt for evening
• Light jacket or cardigan
• Versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down
• Toiletry bag
• Weekender bag or carry-on suitcase
• Travel journal
• Packable tote for shopping
• Refillable water bottle

Vacation essentials:

• Purse or tote
• Book or e-reader

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag) should be sufficient.

For cold weather vacations, consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . If you'll be attending dinners or formal celebrations, you might want to use a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing.

Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.

Rolling method Ideal for saving space and helping prevent clothes from wrinkling, this method involves rolling each piece of clothing. You begin this process by laying each item at flat as possible, and then roll the piece of clothing into a log shape. Repeat the process for each item and place them into your suitcase.

Packing cubes If you like to save space and keep your items organized while traveling, packing cubes are the perfect multitasker. Purchase a mix of packing cubes in various sizes or colors (or both) and decide if you want to arrange clothes by type or by outfit. Pack the cubes accordingly, and if you really want to save space, consider compression packing cubes .

Bundling method This way works well for those who like to pack outfits together. You'll put together an outfit, starting with the smallest items first (like socks and underwear), then wrapping the shirt/top around it. Next, wrap the pants, skirt or dress to create a folded bundle that you will then pack. You'll then repeat the process for each outfit. When you're on vacation, you can select the outfit you want to wear and have all of the items in one place.

Wrapping method This works best if you have clothes of mixed lengths and widths. You begin by placing the longest or widest clothes at the bottom of your suitcase, layer clothes in order of largest to smallest. Once all clothing is in, take the ends of the largest layers and wrap inward to encase the clothes within your suitcase.

When packing for a week, consider the climate, activities and styles of clothing you'll need. As easy as it is to overpack, it's also easy to leave a key item at home that may have you frustrated or unable to do something you really wanted to do.

Clothing for a seven-day trip:

• 3-5 outfits
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
• 1 pair of versatile shoes to wear at dressier meals or locations
• Activity-specific shoes for hiking, biking, working out or doing water activities
• Cardigan or layer piece for temperature variances
• 7-10 pairs of underwear
• Required undergarments like a strapless bra or nylons
• 5-7 pairs of socks
• Rain jacket or warm coat (depending on climate)
• Personal item bag that can double as an in-destination tote
• Passport (if leaving the country)
• Wallet with driver's license or identification
• Credit cards

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag , a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote . She used her personal experience along with her retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on

What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation ideas for every traveler.

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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18 Must-Pack Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond

Last Updated: September 7, 2024

Whether you’re headed out for a quick business trip, a monthslong world tour, or a laid-back weekend at the beach, our list of 2024’s best travel essentials has you covered.

Sure, some necessities are obvious — toiletries, medications, snacks, phones — we know you’ll pack those.

We’re here to cover the game-changing items you may not have thought of that’ll help elevate your packing list and make life easier on the road.

Whether it’s a minimalist wallet, a compact Bluetooth speaker, a lightweight laptop case, or something else, we bet you’ll find a piece of gear here that will add value to your travel bag.

We know this because we’ve traveled extensively with every item on this list and stand behind each recommendation.

Packing is a juggling act, so let’s dive into the must-have gear we’d never travel without.

Travel Essentials for Men & Women

• Personal Item Bag: Our Top Picks
• Travel Organizers: Our Top Picks
• Minimalist Wallet/Purse: Slimfold & Travelambo
• Bluetooth Headphones: Apple AirPods Pro
• Titanium Water Bottle: Our Top Picks
• Laptop Case/Sleeve: tomtoc 360º
• Phone Case: OtterBox
• Lightweight Power Bank: Nitecore NB10000 Gen II
• Compact Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Go 3
• Travel Adapter: Anker
• Cellphone Kickstand/Tripod: The Pocket Tripod
• Ultralight Camera Clip: Peak Design
• High-Quality Travel Journal: Moleskine
• The Write Everywhere Pen: Space Pen
• Noise-Blocking Earplugs: Howard Leight by Honeywell
• Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince & Wool&
• Versatile Travel Pants: Slim Dungarees & Vuori Ripstop
• Do-It-All Travel Shoes: Our Top Picks
• Tips for a Perfect Packing List
• Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for Men & Women

Essential Travel Gear & Accessories

Personal item bag our top picks of 2024.

Here’s our top essential: A personal item bag that’ll hold and protect the stuff you need close at hand, every day and everywhere.

We’re talking about travel documents, snacks, personal care items, electronics, changes of clothes, and assorted accessories.

Browse through our favorite personal item bags for a wide variety of lightweight, weather-resistant, and feature-rich options.

I often take a duffel bag for longer trips, but backpacks and messenger bags are more convenient for hands-free sprints down the concourse near departure time.

What to Look for in a Personal Item Bag: Search for a comfortable, airline-complaint bag suitable for one-bag travel and will help you avoid extra boarding fees by stashing underneath the seat in front of you.

Travel Organizers Our Top Picks of 2024

I like keeping my belongings nice and tidy inside my bag, so travel organizers are lifesavers.

I rely on them to help me find essential toiletries, packing cubes, ditty bags, cables, adapters, and all the other miscellany of life on the road.

‘Tidy’ is satisfying.

Trust me, travel organizers make packing and unpacking much less of a hassle.

I especially love the transparent and zippered bags that keep everything visible, secure, and easily accessible.

Travel is stressful enough; we don’t need the extra burden of chaotic clutter.

What to Look for in a Travel Organizer: Search for durable, water-resistant packing solutions that fit your belongings comfortably and have the proper dimensions to stash inside your main travel bag without restriction.

Minimalist Wallet Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet

A purse or wallet designed for travel is another sanity saver.

Monitoring your spending is easier with a lightweight, compact, minimalist front-pocket wallet — we highly recommend the Slimfold Soft Shell wallet pictured above.

Women may want a stylish but minimalist purse with organized storage for the basics.

The Travelambo we recommend will efficiently stash your ID, cash, travel hacking credit cards , and not much else.

Minimalism is a good thing when traveling.

Why We Travel With the Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet: It’s soft and stretchy yet durable and sports RFID protection to thwart hackers and thieves. Its lightweight and minimalist design helps reduce bulk in our pockets.

Bluetooth Headphones Apple AirPods Pro

Wireless headphones are a top travel necessity for anyone listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks that muffle their noisy surroundings.

I use my Apple AirPods Pro daily when I travel.

High-quality Bluetooth headphones like these are a no-brainer.

AirPods are my favorites as they have excellent sound and solid battery life.

Plus, you can use their built-in microphone to talk on the phone when a call comes in.

And, of course, they’re cordless, so the aggravation of tangled cords will be a non-issue.

Why We Travel With the Apple AirPods Pro: They pump out quality sound and use active noise cancellation to block out background noise. If you’re an iPhone user, they connect to your phone automatically once you put them in your ears.

Lightweight Titanium Water Bottle Our Top Picks of 2024

You need to stay hydrated, whether you’re summiting a mountain or wandering crowded city streets.

I recommend sipping your beverage from a titanium water bottle; they’re rugged, ultra-lightweight, and won’t leach off any flavors to your drink.

Titanium water bottles come in all shapes and sizes and should fit easily and compactly in your bag.

And by saying ‘no’ to single-use plastic containers, you’re doing your part to combat pollution, including microplastics in the water supply.

What to Look for in a Titanium Water Bottle: Opt for a single-wall bottle if your focus is keeping it lightweight. Go for double-wall if you want to keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. We love the Snow Peak Aurora, pictured above, over all others.

Laptop Case/Sleeve tomtoc 360°

Laptops have become essential for traveling, whether watching Netflix, working remotely, or keeping in touch with loved ones.

Packing your laptop without proper protection is a big no-no, so grab a laptop case or sleeve for extra protection.

I like the Tomtoc 360° because its plush padded shell includes corner reinforcement and a decent amount of storage for accessories.

I’ve dinged-up laptops in the past, so I’m a big advocate of protective cases and sleeves.

Why We Travel With the tomtoc 360°: It’s the lightest and most straightforward laptop case/sleeve for our needs. It fits our MacBook Pros like a glove, and its zippers are buttery smooth. There are ten colors to choose from!

Durable Phone Case OtterBox

Many people choose an OtterBox as their go-to phone case, and so do I.

They’re the market’s most trusted brand, and their cases are definitely ‘engineered to endure.’

There’s a wide variety of stylish designs and colors, so grab one to protect your precious phone.

Imagine trying to travel the globe with a smashed phone.

Not a pleasant picture, is it?

Too many phones are BSB designs — “Beautiful, Slippery, and Brittle” — so protect your phone and your investment with a rugged case from a trusted brand.

Why We Travel With an OtterBox: OtterBox is the OG in smartphone protection and has a reputation for putting out sturdy, reliable, and ergonomic products. They come in various colors and styles and offer MagSafe options for iPhones.

Ultra-Compact & Lightweight Power Bank Nitecore NB10000 Gen II

Letting your gadgets run out of juice in the middle of a busy day is a rookie move.

Use a power bank like the Nitecore to top up your device batteries.

Despite its compact size, this will keep your electronics alive until you can return to your home base to charge up and wind down.

This Nitecore is a medium-duty 10,000mAh power bank sized for phones, tablets, and cameras.

However, if you also need to charge laptops and other power-hungry devices, consider splurging for a bigger, more powerful unit.

Why We Travel With the Nitecore NB Gen II: It’s the lightest and most compact 10,000mAh power bank on the market. Its carbon fiber enclosure is sleek, durable, and IPX5-rated water resistant.

Compact Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker JBL Go 3

Do you like to listen to music as you get ready in your hotel room or soak in a sunset on the beach?

Then, grab a portable Bluetooth speaker.

This may not seem like ‘essential’ travel gear, but many of us (myself included) consider it a necessary comfort of home when out on the road.

The JBL Go 3’s sound quality makes it an easy recommendation, as does its portability, waterproofing, and value.

I use it to listen to podcasts, create white noise for sleeping in noisy environments, and to motivate myself during bodyweight travel workouts .

Why We Travel With the JBL Go 3: For its size, it cranks out respectable sound and punchy bass. It’s lightweight, portable, waterproof, and dust-proof. At $50, it’s a good value that should last for several years of travel.

Compact International Travel Adapter Anker 735

If you’re a globetrotter like me, you already know that reliable and powerful travel adapters are must-haves.

This is the lightest and most compact charger I’ve used that can charge my MacBook Pro, and it keeps all of my other electronics powered and ready to go.

Ironically, I use it to keep my Nitecore power bank topped up… a charger for a charger.

Frequent travelers stay in touch and find their way using their digital devices, so it’s wise to recharge with a compact and reliable product.

We rely on our adapters, and it’s good to know that Anker has a reputation for reliable and innovative products.

Why We Travel With the Anker 735: It’s about 40% the size of a standard MacBook charger and has two extra USB charging ports; it’s as compact and lightweight as you could ask for. Anker products are as rock-solid as they come.

Compact Phone Kickstand/Tripod The Pocket Tripod

Your phone’s camera will take better low-light photos if you stabilize it with a tripod.

And this tripod is the size of a credit card, making it a perfect travel companion.

It’s also a kickstand to hold your phone steady while it plays videos as you nod off during the flight to your next destination.

Versatility is why I chose The Pocket Tripod as a travel essential.

It’s a convenient and innovative piece of gear that I always have on hand, ready for the next great photo opp.

A steady camera means less image blur, better self-portraits, and more hands-free video chats.

Why We Travel With the Pocket Tripod: It reliably props up phones when filming adventures, chatting with loved ones, or watching movies on an airplane. It weighs half an ounce and can be stashed away virtually unnoticed in a wallet or purse.

Ultralight Camera Clip Peak Design Capture

When I travel with a camera, I keep it close at hand with the Peak Design Capture clip.

I no longer have an excuse to leave my camera behind because I don’t want to bother with straps or cases.

Always having my camera within reach means no more missed opportunities for the perfect photo.

I prefer the Peak Design Camera Clip to tangle-prone camera straps.

It’s lightweight and easy to attach to a backpack, bag, or belt.

Use it if you travel with an expensive camera to keep it hands-free until the moment you need it.

Why We Travel With the Peak Design Capture: We travel with expensive cameras that must be protected at all costs. Not only does the Capture protect them, but it also allows us to forego annoying and cumbersome camera straps.

High-Quality Travel Journal Moleskine

Travelers keep journals to document and make sense of their lives.

Paper journals have been around for centuries, and they’re a tradition that’s far more intimate than typing notes into a cell phone.

Moleskine journals are legendary — Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and David Bowie all captured their thoughts on those distinctive creamy ivory pages.

For me, journaling is calming and therapeutic, especially in nature.

My thoughts and memories seem to expand when I write by hand.

It’s a ritual I cherish, and traveling inspires me.

Set your smartphone aside and give it a try; it’s delightful.

Why We Travel With the Moleskine Soft Cover Journal: Information comes at us from a million different directions while traveling, and we need a journal to make sense of it all. The Moleskine is durable and has 240 no-bleed pages.

The Write Everywhere Pen Fisher Space Pen

High-quality journal pages deserve high-quality pens, and that’s where Fisher Space pens come in.

They were designed for astronauts floating in zero-gravity environments!

I’ll bet their journal entries are slightly different from yours and mine.

Fisher Space Pens have a no-nonsense heft, plus a special ink with a velvety glide.

Their compact Bullet Pens slip easily into purses and pockets, and writing with one puts me in the mood to jot down my day’s adventures.

Life’s too short to use Bic pens.

Why We Travel With the Fisher Space Pen: This bad boy will write underwater and in zero gravity, in case your travels take you somewhere out of this world. It’s compact, rugged, streamlined for smooth writing, and will last forever.

Noise-Blocking Earplugs Howard Leight by Honeywell

Moving from Point A to Point B often exposes you to plenty of noise — jet engines, city traffic, crowds, and much more.

Battery-operated noise- canceling headphones have their place, but simpler, old-school noise- blocking methods like earplugs are also worth considering.

Traditional earplugs like these colorful inserts from Honeywell can block many of the noises you’ll encounter when traveling.

I use mine regularly on airplanes when I’m tired of my headphones but still need relief from the cabin soundscape or Jerry from Omaha snoring loudly in the seat next to me.

Why We Travel With the Howard Leight by Honeywell Earplugs:  Whenever you inevitably cross a screaming child in an airplane, you’ll thank us for this recommendation. These are comfy, contoured, and soil-resistant to prevent dirt build-up.

Essential Travel Clothing

Merino wool t-shirt wool&prince (men’s) wool& (women’s).

Clothes designed for travel enthusiasts should be lightweight, comfortable, and well-fitting.

That’s why I suggest Merino Wool T-Shirts from Wool&Prince (for men) and Wool& (for women).

W&P is a top supplier of Merino wool clothing and my favorite brand on the market today.

W&P shirts are super soft, anti-microbial, odor-resistant, and perfect for travel.

Banish smelly clothes that cause discomfort over the course of a day.

The best part for travelers is that these shirts can remain odor-free for several days — quite a benefit for those on the go.

Why We Wear Wool&Prince While Traveling:  We can get away with wearing wool clothing for days, if not weeks , at a time between washes while traveling. Seriously. Wool&Prince shirts are true to size, fit incredibly well, and don’t shrink.

Lightweight & Versatile Travel Pants Outlier Slim Dungarees (Men’s) Vuori Ripstop (Women’s)

I’m a travel pants nerd.

When searching for the perfect pair, do your homework and choose one that balances comfort, functionality, and style.

You’ll spend long hours wearing these travel pants, so you’ll want to be comfortable and good-looking.

Slim Dungarees and Ripstop pants are two of our absolute favorites.

I’ve sampled several pairs of pants and travel jeans , and Vuori is one of my favorite brands.

They’re versatile, and I wear them for everything from hiking to bouncing around town.

Why We Wear Ourlier & Vuori While Traveling: Both brands make incredibly stylish, comfortable, and durable pants that fit well. They’re durable enough for year-round use and breathable enough to wear in hot and humid climates.

One Pair Do-It-All Travel Shoes Our Top Picks of 2024

For the no-checked-luggage traveler, I recommend bringing only ONE pair of do-it-all shoes.

That can be tricky, especially if your trip involves a mix of city streets and hiking trails.

Versatility and comfort should always be your top priorities, but never discount the value of a stylish pair of shoes or boots.

We’ve simplified your choice by listing our favorite footwear for both men and women.

From sneakers to loafers and slip-ons to athletic shoes, you’ll likely find several varieties that might pique your interest for your upcoming trip.

I only travel with one pair of shoes, so they must be versatile and comfortable.

What to Look for in a Pair of Travel Shoes: Search for a comfortable and lightweight pair of shoes that’ll let your feet breathe as you pile up the steps during your adventures. Bonus points for kicks that can be dressed up and dressed down.

Six Tips for a Perfect Packing List

Efficient travel requires a savvy mix of preparation, planning, and organization if you’re going to thrive out there.

No matter the length of your trip, you must learn to prepare and pack wisely.

To help you, here are a few tips for putting together the perfect packing list:

If It Doesn’t Add Value, It’s Not Essential

Avoid packing items that don’t serve a purpose or add value to your travels.

Leave it at home if it doesn’t make the trip more enjoyable, productive, or efficient.

Define your essentials based on your activities — backpacking, camping, hiking, or visiting a new city.

Pack only the essentials: clothing, footwear, technical gear, and personal care essentials that add value to your travel.

Focus on Multi-Purpose Essentials

Have you ever regretted your packing choices while out on the road?

To avoid that feeling, pack items that serve multiple purposes.

This will save time, and you’ll have fewer items to track.

For instance, select shoes or pants ideal for multiple activities, such as hiking and sightseeing.

Another great multi-purpose item is an all-in-one bag like a fanny pack or backpack that can also be worn crossbody.

Aim for Compact and Lightweight Gear

Selecting the right items can be daunting, so if you’re a ‘just-in-case’ packer, you’ll quickly end up with an overstuffed bag.

Stay focused on proven methods — lightweight and compact packing is the way to go.

Look for items that’ll pack up tightly and fit snugly in your bag or suitcase.

Choose clothing and other items that will last the entire trip and can fold up neatly.

Opt for shoes or sandals with lightweight soles that offer grip and traction but won’t overload your bag.

Do Your Homework Before You Buy

Avoid making terrible travel decisions, and always read reviews thoroughly before purchasing.

This is especially true when making a rushed, last-minute purchase.

Learn from customer experiences and insights into the product’s performance in different conditions and climates.

For example, if you’re shopping for technical apparel or a multi-purpose tool, tap into the wealth of knowledge out there.

Solid research could lead you to buy something that performs well and lasts for years.

Embrace Minimalism

If you’re a minimalist traveler, you know the truth of the saying “less is more.”

Minimalism is all about embracing the principle and avoiding the temptation of packing too much stuff.

Clutter will drag you down and hold you back.

Start by looking for versatile items of clothing and footwear that can be used interchangeably in different settings or scenarios.

And when you return home, keep track of the items you used most and decide what can be left behind next time.

Invest in Quality — Buy Once, Cry Once

Last but not least, invest in quality travel gear.

The up-front costs of high-quality items are often offset by their greater utility and longer lifespan.

If you have to replace cheaper items every few trips, are they really saving you money?

Probably not, especially if the higher-quality items have a solid warranty and offer reputable customer service.

Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for 2024

Are you ready to draft your own perfect packing list for 2024?

Our list of travel essentials for men and women may not match yours, but we hope you found a few items that will add value to your next journey.

The goal is to find gear and clothing that will add consistent value to your life on the road.

Please share any tips or gear recommendations you have in the Comments section below.

We’re especially interested in hearing what’s worked for you (or not) regarding trip planning, organization, packing lists, and any advice you may have on travel-friendly clothing or general-use gear.

Noel Krasomil

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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."

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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 .

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 .

10 Secrets I Learned Working in a Hotel

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. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like:

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

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

187 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

49 Published Articles 3400 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Key takeaways, 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.

• Essential items include travel documents, credit cards, toiletries, medications, electronics, and chargers. With these, you are ready for everything.
• Pack versatile clothing, comfortable shoes, and travel-sized versions of your favorite products to save space and stay organized.
• Utilize packing cubes and a travel checklist to ensure you remember everything and maximize your luggage space.

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 the 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.

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 .

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The state of travel has changed pretty drastically over the past five years. And if you're just getting back to jet-setting, whether you're visiting family and friends or finally taking that postponed international vacay, you might not know what to bring on your next trip.

"First and foremost, mask mandates have been lifted, which means they are not required to be worn to travel. The overall sentiment about traveling has also changed in the sense that people are not as fearful as they were the first time traveling after the pandemic," says Nicole Bernstein, travel agent at Over The Moon Vacations . "However, traveling during a pandemic has taught us a lot of things, and I think people have changed their habits as it relates to the things they do and bring when traveling."

Purell Hand Sanitizing Wipes Travel Pack

Amazon Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet

LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask

Masks are now optional for air travel (still, never a bad idea!), a changing climate and elevation are not. Both can dry out your skin, which is why "a lot of hydrating products for your face are key," says Bernstein. So, even though the bottom half of your face may or may not be covered, pre-plane skincare prep is non-negotiable. Ditto for airport security measures—unless you have TSA Pre-Check, you still gotta shake off your shoes in line. But don't worry, Bernstein's got some genius recs to sail through that body scan in comfort and style.

Whether you're taking trains, planes, or automobiles, here are the 45 best travel essentials every adventurer needs in 2023, all approved by experts:

If the last few years has taught you anything, it's that hand sanitizer is a necessity in public places. Allison Kobasky, co-owner of Over The Moon vacations , recommends these handy-dandy wipes (sorry, had to!) for all your travel needs. Yes, they're perfect for your palms, but Kobasky uses them to "wipe down the seats and any high-touch items like armrests and tray tables," too.

If airplane entertainment isn't your thing (I get it), the Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet is a travel must. With an 8" HD display and 2 gigabytes of RAM, this lightweight tablet offers 13 hours of access to social media, games, books, and all your favorite streaming services.

Not sure if it's worth the purchase? Just take it from this rave review: "The kindle fire HD8 is the absolute best for my e-books. The clarity is excellent, the battery life is far superior to my fire7, and my games are faster. I think it is excellent value for the money spent."

"That is fantastic to travel with for keeping your lips hydrated," says Mary Jo Palmer , a travel advisor at Travel Edge. Need she say more?

Bite Toothpaste Bits with Nano Hydroxyapatite

Bite's toothpaste bits are perfect for extended travel plans. Instead of lugging around a whole big tube, all you need is your toothbrush, water, and just one of these tablets. The bites come in mint, berry twist, and mint charcoal flavors. Plus, it's not only a convenient, on-the-go options, but a more sustainable one, too.

"Love that I can pop these in my purse and have clean teeth whenever and wherever," says one user. "Love the glass bottle and the focus on quality. Tastes great and great gift idea too!"

Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

A travel pillow can only do so much when your neck is craned toward your lap for hours on end. This hands-free smartphone holder attaches to the back of your airplane tray table so your device is right in your line of vision.

Need another reason to *add to cart*? Just read this rave review: "With this gadget I can place my phone in it and hook it onto the top edge of the tray table in its upright position, all while everyone is still boarding. When I flip the tray table down for beverage service, I change the gadget into a stand without needing to remove the phone. It takes up little room in my bag, and it is sturdy as proven on my last flight with extremely rough air."

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Variety Pack

If you're a die-hard fan of classic hand sani gel, opt for a travel-sized container you can pop into the same clear plastic bag holding the rest of your carry-on liquids. These one-ounce bottles even come with jelly wraps to attach to your purse, backpack, key chain, etc. (Pro tip: When buying any hand sanitizer, check the label to make sure it contains at least 60-percent alcohol content for proper germ protection, says Bernstein.)

Travelon RFID-Blocking Double Zip Wallet

An RFID-blocking purse or wallet is another item on Palmer's must-pack list. ICYDK, this wearable tech stops would-be identity thieves from stealing your credit card information via an electronic card reader. "They don't even have to snatch your purse; they can just walk by you and steal your credit card information," she says. "But if you have the RFID-blocking [wallet], they can't do it." Palmer especially recommends using one in Europe, where, she says, the card-reading practice is more common.

Clorox Disinfecting Wipes Travel Pack

Channel your inner Lisa Rinna , and go on a clean freak spree from plane to rental car to hotel room and beyond! "We recommend disinfecting wipes because you can use them to quickly get rid of any surface germs," says Bernstein. "I like the Clorox travel pack, but anything that says it kills 99.9 percent of germs is definitely good."

EVIAN Facial Spray 1.7 Ounce Travel Duo

Just to hammer this home: There's no such thing as "too much" hydration when your skin is jetsetting. Bernstein recommends this water-based facial spray from Evian to "always look and feel fresh on the go." (Brb, buying these in bulk.)

Huzi Infinity Travel Pillow

Perfect for the traveler who can never get comfortable, "this one is more unique and versatile than your standard travel pillow," says Bernstein. "I just like the idea that it wraps around your neck so no matter how you fall asleep, your neck's not gonna hurt when you wake up." Jet lag, who ?

Batiste Mini Dry Shampoo 1.6 Ounce Travel 4-Pack

As your skin dries out, your hair greases up— sigh . Whether you're on a long road trip or flight, stashing a mini-sized dry shampoo in your bag ensures "you can keep adventuring without having to constantly wash and style your hair," says Kobasky. A quick spritz will give you that instant refresh everyone needs while traveling.

Kiehl's Since 1851 Super Multi-Corrective Cream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

ICYDK, air travel dries out your skin, thanks to the low humidity environment created by a plane's filtration system ."I've personally been packing a super moisturizing facial and hand cream—my favorite being Kiehl's Super Multi-Corrective Cream with SPF," says Kobasky. Add 'maskne' (a.k.a. mask acne) on to run-of-the-mill dryness and travel-minded skincare is key. "Same goes for your hands," she notes. "As washing constantly and using hand sanitizer tends to dry them out."

ISELECTOR Universal Travel Adapter

The last thing you want while traveling is to get to your destination and realize you don't have an adapter. Luckily, this device will allow you to charge multiple items at once without overheating.

"Used this for a trip to Morocco where it performed well all week. [It was] plugged in constantly, running all four USB ports, and at least three of the sockets at the same time. It makes a very low-level hum and did not generate any heat," wrote one user.

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Hydra-Gel Eye Patches

"These are amazing to reduce the puffiness and just overall darkness underneath your eyes, but they're also hydrating, which you need when you're on a plane," says Bernstein. Bonus: They're totally face mask-friendly and an indulgent way to practice self-care in the skies.

Amazon USB to Micro-USB Cable

If you don't have an Apple phone or simply want to connect to another device, make sure to choose a USB cord that's compatible with that charging/connection outlet. Many use a micro USB, so it's best to have both cable options at the ready.

SLIP Silk Sleep Mask

The most underrated travel essential? SLEEP. After all, you can't tackle your adventure agenda if you're dozing off. To ensure your best shot at shuteye on a plane or in a hotel room, opt for an opaque eye mask, says Bernstein.

"Even with the blind shut on the plane, you can still kind of see the light [coming through], so you'll want to make sure your mask is obviously light-blocking," she explains. An eye mask is always a safe bet, and this one made of pure silk will help keep your skin smooth and retain its moisture.

BeautyBio Bright Eyes Collagen-Infused Brightening Colloidal Silver Eye Masks

If you have sensitive skin like Palmer, she recommends these collagen-infused eye patches to hydrate and brighten while traveling.

Yves Saint Laurent Top Secrets Universal Makeup Removing Balm-in-Oil

Because Palmer's skin gets irritated by regular makeup remover wipes (a travel essential for many!), she started using this balm from Yves Saint Laurent instead. Now, she swears by it as a more sustainable option since you're not going through a ton of wipes and just chucking them in the trash every night.

MAILESI Lightning Charger to USB Cable

Another crucial item for travel? A standard USB cord. You've probably already put charging cords on your packing list, but pack an extra or two for the rental car. "This allows us to play our own music on long trips and also connect to Google Maps or Waze if the car has Apple Carplay," says Kobasky.

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

If you hate the idea of untying your sneakers at airport security more than paying for airplane snacks (mini 👏 pretzels 👏 should 👏 always 👏 be 👏 free 👏!), then shoelace-free footwear is a must. Bernstein recommends a pair of sock-friendly sandals, like Birkenstocks, for easy on-off as you go through TSA. It's a lewk, mkay?

Lindsay Geller is the Lifestyle Director at Women’s Health , where she oversees the Life, Sex & Love, and Relationships sections on WomensHealthMag.com and the Mind section of Women's Health magazine. When she's not writing or editing articles about the latest dating trends and pop culture phenomenons, she's usually watching reality TV or playing with her dog, Lucille (Go Fetch That) Ball.

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

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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.

If you enjoyed this post why not Pin It?

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.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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:

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

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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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The Ultimate Travel Packing List: How to Pack for Any Vacation

Written by Eagle Creek on April 5, 2024

Eagle Creek was established in 1975 by Steve and Nona Barker, a couple who revered the planet and explored it accordingly. In the process, they invented an entirely new product category: adventure travel gear. Half a century later, no one offers more expertly conceived and crafted gear for experiencing the earth in every hemisphere. Thoughtful, sustainable, function-forward solutions inspired by the belief that travel can be a force for good.

A well-prepared vacation packing list is crucial for a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Whether you're a first-time adventurer or a seasoned globetrotter, having a comprehensive travel packing list ensures you're equipped with all the essentials for your journey. 

Knowing exactly what to pack, from toiletries to tech gadgets, makes it much easier to get the job done, giving you more time to focus on the anticipation of your upcoming trip. 

In this guide, we'll discuss the essential components of a packing list for vacation. Whether you're jetting off for a cultural experience , planning a relaxing weekend getaway, or embarking on a long-term exploration of the world, our detailed checklists and expert tips have you covered. 

Ready to pack like a pro? Keep reading this travel checklist to explore the must-have items and smart packing strategies to ensure you're prepared for any adventure. 

Essential Packing Checklist for Stress-Free Travel

What to pack in your personal item, how to choose the right travel bag for your trip, seasonal and destination-specific packing advice, how to pack efficiently: tips and tricks, prepare your home before you leave.

• Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist

Going on a vacation should be filled with anticipation and excitement, not stress over what to pack. That's why having an essential travel packing checklist is crucial for ensuring smooth and hassle-free experiences. Whether traveling on budget airlines , exploring a new city, lounging on a beach, or trekking through the wilderness, having the right items packed can make all the difference. Dive into our comprehensive travel checklist to learn what to pack for your next adventure. 

Ensuring you pack the proper clothing is essential for comfort, style, and adaptability during your travels. One of our favorite travel hacks  is to pack versatile clothing that allows you to mix and match outfits and pack light . Doing so minimizes the number of items you need to bring while ensuring you're prepared for various activities and weather conditions. 

Check the weather forecast for where you're going and pack accordingly, including layers for unpredictable weather. If there's a chance of rain, consider bringing a light, waterproof jacket so you won't be stuck inside all day. Additionally, opt for comfortable footwear and travel shoes  for walking and exploring. And don't forget to pack swimwear if you'll be hitting the beach or lounging by the pool. 

Other clothing items you might consider packing include: 

• Button-up shirts
• Lightweight jacket
• Winter jacket

Undergarments

• Comfortable shoes
• Dress shoes

Accessories

Active wear.

• Athletic clothes
• Athletic shoes

Maintaining personal hygiene and having essential first-aid items on hand is vital for staying healthy and comfortable during your travels. Proper toiletries ensure you feel refreshed and clean, which is especially important on a camping trip . Meanwhile, a first-aid kit  can relieve minor injuries and ailments. 

Transfer toiletries into travel-sized containers to save space and comply with TSA carry-on rules . Include essentials like toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Don't forget to also protect yourself from harmful UV rays and pesky bugs with sunscreen and insect repellent. 

What else should you include when packing a toiletry bag ? Here's a more comprehensive travel packing list for toiletries and first-aid items you should bring with you: 

• Hair brush or comb
• Skincare products
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Shaving kit
• Contact lenses
• Nail clippers
• Hair products
• Perfume/cologne

Travel Health

• Pain reliever
• Fever reducers
• Cold medicines
• Diarrhea/laxative medicines
• Personal prescriptions
• Throat lozenges
• Sunburn relief
• Insect repellent
• Antibacterial ointment
• Hand sanitizer
• First aid kit

Electronics

Electronics are necessities for navigation, communication, and capturing memories with a digital travel journal  on your adventures. Ensuring you have the right electronics packed keeps you connected and entertained throughout your journey. A few electronic items to bring include: 

• Smartphone and charger
• Camera or GoPro
• Portable power banks
• Adapter and converter

Keep your smartphone and charger in an easily accessible place to grab immediately after stepping off the plane. Consider bringing a portable power bank to stay powered on the go and recharge your devices when you don't have access to an outlet. If traveling internationally, pack an adapter and converter to ensure compatibility with local power outlets. 

Additionally, if you do not already keep your smartphone in a protective case , consider purchasing one for your trip. Nothing is worse than having an unusable phone while away from home!

Personal Items

When traveling, it's essential to have your personal items organized and readily accessible. These items include crucial documents, payment methods, and other essentials that ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. 

Travel Documents

• Visa (if required for your destination)
• Travel itinerary or reservations
• Copies of tickets
• Travel insurance information
• Driver's license or ID card
• Health insurance card

Financial Items

• Cash (both local currency and some USD for emergencies)
• Credit cards and debit cards
• Traveler's checks
• Emergency contact information

Travel Security 

Ensuring your safety and security while traveling should be your highest priority. Consider packing items that enhance your security and peace of mind during your journey, such as: 

• Neck wallet
• Undercover Bra Stash  for credit cards and cash only
• Incognito All Terrain Money Belt , which looks like a real belt!
• Luggage Travel Lock
• Reflective clothing and luggage accessories
• Bring a headlamp or mini flashlight; it is better to be safe than unprepared

Wear a money belt or use a hidden pouch to keep valuables such as cash, passports, and credit cards safe and secure. Meanwhile, wearing reflective clothing can make you more visible if you are out and about in low-light conditions or areas with heavy traffic. 

For added security in your hotel, consider bringing a portable door lock or door alarm to reinforce door security and provide peace of mind while sleeping. 

You can also invest in travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected emergencies, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Your personal item should include anything you want to keep on you while traveling. For instance, if you're taking a long flight and need something to do, you might bring a tablet with games for entertainment.

If you’re traveling to multiple destinations, your bag should include everything you need to stay comfortable. It's always nice to have an easy-to-access bag so you don't have to get into your luggage each time you need your eye mask. But remember, you'll be carrying this throughout your entire journey, so keep it light.

Consider using a small daypack , shoulder bag , cross body travel bag , or waist pack  as your personal carry-on item. Here are some essential items to include in your carry-on bag packing list:

• Mobile device, charger, and charging cable
• Laptop, iPad, or E-reader and charger(s)
• Headphones (consider noise-reducing headphones if you're sensitive to sound)
• Camera and GoPro/video camera, memory card, and chargers
• Electrical converters and adapters
• Electronics organizer
• Travel documents
• Comfort items like a travel pillow
• Water bottle 
• Books or e-books for entertainment

Before you decide what to pack for your vacation, it's crucial to find a versatile travel bag that fits all your stuff and is easy to carry. Consider the length of your trip, whether it's an international vacation , whether you'll be using budget airlines , and your primary activities. All of these considerations impact which bag is best for your trip.

Wherever you plan to go, pick versatile, lightweight, and big luggage to hold all your travel items. Ensure your bag has a warranty covering any potential damages or defects. Traveling with a piece of luggage with a broken wheel, handle, or zipper is the absolute worst! Brands that back their gear with stand-up warranties build that promised durability into their gear.

Here are some of our favorite bags for travel:

• Rolling Luggage : Let's face it; wheels are nice. If you'll be traveling in a city with paved roads and sidewalks, there's no need to carry all your gear on your back or via a duffle bag like a Cargo Hauler . You may even want to consider a bag with off-road wheels, which is extra durable for trips even when there isn't a smooth path. Our Gear Warrior collection can be a great option for off-road wheeled luggage.
• 4-Wheels : As you fill up your wheeled luggage, weight can become a bit restrictive—especially if you have to walk long distances. Consider 4-wheels to keep the weight off your wrist and effortlessly roll your bag by your side. Consider 2-wheel luggage if you have a lighter load.
• Duffel Bag : These are simple and lightweight, and Eagle Creek's duffel bags are crazy durable. Sling it over your shoulder, or put some wheels on it and get on your way. These are the most versatile travel solutions, from classic duffels  to convertible backpacks , rolling duffel bags , large duffel bags , and more.    
• Wheeled Backpack : If you'll be traveling through different terrains or switching from airports to cobblestones, having a bag that can be rolled or carried like a backpack or duffel is really handy.
• Travel Backpack : If you don't want the extra weight of wheels, traveling with a classic backpack  will mean hands-free mobility and ultimate versatility.
• Carry-On : Whenever possible, travel with carry-on luggage. This means you can save time at the airport, save on check-in fees, guarantee that the airlines won't lose your bag, have everything you need with you at all times, and ensure that you don't have to wait at baggage claim.

Travel Tip: Picking the right travel luggage is an important step not only on this trip but on all of your future trips as well. Use Eagle Creek's Buying Guide for luggage , travel packs, carry-ons, and duffel bags to find the right bag for your travel style and situation. You may need more than one bag in your collection, but you can narrow down the choices based on what is most useful and fits everything you need to pack for your vacations.

Understanding where you're going and when is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.

Seasons change, and knowing the type of weather you might run into can help you decide what to pack. For instance, you should pack clothing suitable for the climate at your destination. Research the weather forecast for the time of year you'll be traveling and pack accordingly.

Bring layers like sweaters, jackets, and scarves to stay warm in colder seasons. Consider thermal underwear if you're visiting extremely cold regions. Conversely, opt for lightweight and breathable clothing in warmer seasons to keep cool and comfortable. Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

In addition to understanding the general seasons, choose clothing items suitable for the weather conditions at your destination. For instance, waterproof or windproof outer layers are essential for rainy or windy climates. Pack different items you can layer or remove to adapt to changing weather conditions throughout your trip.

Packing efficiently also means packing light to ensure you're not spending most of your time dragging along your luggage. Here are some tips and tricks to help you pack efficiently: 

• Choose the right luggage : Opt for lightweight, durable luggage that meets your travel needs. Consider size, weight, and functionality when selecting your suitcase, large duffel bag with wheels , or under-the-seat bag . Additionally, choose a carry-on-sized bag whenever possible to avoid checked baggage fees and streamline the process. 
• Make a packing list: You can make your own vacation packing list or use our premade list to organize your belongings and ensure you don't forget anything important. You can divide your list into categories like clothing, toiletries, electronics, and accessories for easier packing. 
• Use packing cubes: Compression packing cubes  can compartmentalize your clothing and accessories, keeping similar items together and maximizing space in your luggage. Knowing how to use packing cubes  is crucial to maximizing the space in your bag. Assign specific cubes for different categories of items, such as tops, bottoms, underwear, and accessories. This makes it easy to find your essentials quickly without rummaging through your entire suitcase. 
• Pack different clothing items: Choose clothes you can mix and match to create multiple ensembles. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that can be rolled instead of folded to save space and minimize creases. 
• Roll your clothes: Roll your clothes instead of folding them inside your suitcase to save space and reduce wrinkles. Place heavier clothes like jeans or jackets on the bottom of your bag and lighter clothes on the top to distribute the weight evenly. 
• Plan for laundry: Pack a small travel-sized detergent or laundry soap to wash your clothes on the go. Many accommodations offer laundry facilities or services, allowing you to freshen up your wardrobe during your trip. Bring a lightweight, collapsible laundry bag to separate dirty and clean clothes and organize your luggage. 
• Minimize toiletries: Pack travel-size toiletries or transfer liquids to reusable containers to save space and comply with airline regulations. Also, consider purchasing toiletries at your destination to reduce the weight of your luggage. 
• Limit shoes: Pack only a few pairs of shoes that are suitable for various activities and occasions. Consider wearing your bulkiest or heaviest pair of shoes while traveling to save space in your luggage. 

Preparing your home before you leave for a trip is a crucial part of your travel packing to-do list for ensuring peace of mind and security while you're away. Here are a few things you should do before you leave for your travels:

• Ensure all windows and doors are locked.
• Unplug electronics and appliances while you're gone to reduce the risk of electrical fires and malfunctions.
• Have someone collect your mail, packages, and newspapers to prevent them from piling up and making your home look unoccupied.
• Before you leave, perform necessary maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the refrigerator, emptying the trash, and watering plants.
• Use timers or smart light bulbs to schedule lights to turn on and off at different times throughout the day to make it look like you're home.
• Store valuables like jewelry, cash, and important documents in a safe or lockbox. Avoid leaving valuable items visible from windows or doors to minimize the risk of theft.
• Provide a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member with a spare key and emergency contact information in case of unforeseen issues or emergencies. 

Everyday Basics

• Phone and charger
• Water bottle
• Travel pillow
• Camera and charger
• Electric converters & adapters
• Travel journal & pen
• Reading materials

Travel Gear

• Main travel bag
• Pack-It® packing cubes
• Comfort & security items
• Day bag & travel wallet
• Passport/visa
• Driver’s license
• Health insurance documents
• Transportation tickets
• Emergency information
• Reservation information
• Hotel information
• Cash & credit/ATM card
• Guide books & maps
• Copies of tickets/passports

DOWNLOAD THE TRAVEL PACKING CHECKLIST

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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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40 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

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There’s something about traveling that is equal parts excitement and stress, especially when it comes time for you to bust out your suitcase and prepare to pack. What comes along with you can vary tremendously depending on the length of your trip and the occasion. Thankfully, the Cut Shop team has traveled far and wide, and has picked up a few tips, tricks, and essentials for packing well. Regardless of whether it’s a quick weekend escapade or a whole month abroad, here are the 39 best travel essentials worth taking along, listed according to the length of time spent away from home.

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➼ For Overnight Trips ➼ Weekend Trips and Excursions ➼ Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half ➼ Two Weeks or Longer ➼ A Month or More

. For Overnight Trips

Whether you’re only traveling ten minutes away for a staycation or venturing to a nearby city for a day, overnight trips can be just as challenging to pack for as longer ones. Our best tip is try to be strategic about stowing all the necessities in a larger tote ba g.

Keep all your chargers and cords organized and untangled in one place. This little case makes sure you can actually find what you are looking for, especially in the depths of a big bucket-shaped bag.

The Nap Dress is comfortable enough for any road trip or train ride or even to sleep in. You really can’t go wrong — it’s like wearing your pajamas but still looking totally presentable. We particularly like the wrinkle-resistant navy dress for easy wear on the road.

This three-pack of pouches might be one of The Cut Shop team’s favorite purchases. Perfect for everyday use, the pouches are great for housing everything from makeup to dirty clothes to receipts. We always have one in our bags, no matter if we’re leaving the house for a night, an hour, or a whole week.

Perfect for event-specific travel, this tote doubles as a garment bag, protecting those special-occasion outfits. It has just enough space to also pack a pair of shoes you do not want to commute in.

One of the best tinted moisturizers out there, this option from Saie offers hydration and some SPF and will give you light coverage with a dewy glow. When you can’t bring your entire medicine cabinet, this is a great option that combines a bunch of products in a multistep routine.

Because hydration is always important, especially when you’re traveling.

Just because you’re not doing your skin-care routine in your bathroom at home doesn’t mean your skin should suffer. This ice rollers will fit perfectly in your toiletry bag and come in handy first thing in the morning.

Sometimes on those quick trips, we push washing our hair an extra day (or three) so we can leave all our heat tools at home. With some dry shampoo and a cute hair claw , no one has to know.

Smell fresh while traveling on the go with this mini Kopari deodorant. The vegan and aluminum-free formula is infused with coconut oil and sage, which makes for an easy, silky-smooth application and the best paradise scent.

. Weekend Trips and Excursions

Whether you are heading out of town for a wedding, trying to get away for a little R&R, or traveling for work, when it comes to packing a weekender or a smaller suitcase, organization is key.

There are so many options out there for weekender bags, but this water-repellent tote from Béis ticks all our boxes including the trolley pass-through pocket to attach to your suitcase and save your shoulders. This one is just over $100.

Most of the time, travel is associated with flying, but whether by choice or not, sometimes the trip involves hours of car time. A phone mount changes the game on a long road trip and is definitely safer.

For those longer flights where you are in a confined space and not moving around as much (looking at you, window-seat fliers), compression socks can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the legs and feet.

Weekend trips can sometimes mean a jam-packed itinerary, so when you want to sleep, you want to snooze uninterrupted. Enter Loop, a reusable silicone earplug that allows you to get the ultimate fit (it comes in four sizes) so you can get in that power nap.

Forgetting your sunglasses on vacation, especially when headed somewhere sunny, is a rookie mistake, which is why this pair from Le Specs is perfect to just keep in your weekend bag so you are never without.. They’re stylish, sturdy, and under $70 , in case you end up losing or breaking them.

Normally, travel containers are not the most stylish or multifunctional. But these Cadence capsules are both of those things. Unlike traditional travel containers, these can be used for anything from storing pills and skincare products to necklaces and hand cream. Plus, you can design your own set to include different labels and colors

You can never go wrong with a classic button-up . It’s a must-have for any trip, especially a weekend one when space is limited. Wear it on its own, with a dress or pants, or as a bathing suit cover-up.

The Tower28 spray is our skin-care savior , and if you’re looking to pack minimally for weekend trips, this needs to be in the toiletry bag. Perfect for sensitive skin, it’s multifunctional, and a spritz delivers a refreshing dose of hydration and soothes stressed-out skin.

Not only do books take up valuable real estate in a carry-on, they add a bit of weight too. A Kindle is so low profile and light that we do not even think twice about tossing it in our bag. It also saves us time doing the math on how many books we should be bringing on a trip because our next read is just a Wi-Fi connection away.

This is the dream makeup bag for weekend or overnight trips. It’s machine-washable for the ultimate no-worry use and has a roomy interior with mesh side pockets, but it opens wide so you can access all those products you overstuffed.

. Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

A full-fledged trip that still limits you to a carry-on may be the most difficult to pack for. Europe, Cabo, our parents’ house, it’s all about making the most of the room you have, even if you can’t help but pack all your sunglasses , expensive skin care, and cute outfits.

This cashmere cardigan is amazing on its own or as a layering piece in case you get chilly en route or in your hotel room. When you’re packing a carry-on, the more pieces you have that you can wear multiple different ways, the better.

Sometimes you just can’t decide which sunglasses to bring, especially if you are going somewhere extra-sunny. This protective case from Dagne Dover allows you to bring three pairs in a very compact and convenient case that is easy to hang up when you get to your final destination.

There is a reason you can’t travel without seeing one of these suitcases. It fits in the overhead bin of most major U.S. airlines and allows travelers enough room to store all their belongings while remaining light, sturdy, and sleek. Plus, it comes in seven attractive colors and has a USB external battery for those extra-long travel days. It is an essential for the majority of trips you will probably take.

We love using packing cubes when we need to keep a duffel bag from becoming total chaos or for just staying organized when we’re traveling somewhere where we will be doing a wide range of activities that require very different wardrobe options. These packing cubes from Calpak are cute and will help bring some order to a carry-on.

Whether you are in the window seat and do not want to disturb your neighbors to wash your hands or need to do a quick clean after pumping gas on a road trip, having some sort of hand sanitizer while traveling is a good idea. This one from Aesop obviously smells amazing.

Organize all your beauty and travel essentials in this lightweight and durable hard-shell vanity case. Your travel toiletries will be safe in this water-resistant case, which features an easily adjustable, removable strap as well as a back attachment that can slide over the handle of your matching Calpak carry-on or checked suitcase. And while the colorful case comes in various shades, this limited gold is currently on sale!

That red-eye won’t have anything on you and your beauty sleep because this sleep mask from Therabody allegedly blocks out 100 percent of light and has three adjustable sleep-inducing vibration patterns.

. Two Weeks or Longer

It’s time to check your bags. Fill your carry-on with the essentials and save the rest for your suitcase. Opt for two-in-one products, space-saving containers, and clothes you can dress up or down. Pro tip: Don’t forget to invest in a luggage tracker to make sure your suitcase arrives when you do.

Wearing trousers on a plane not only saves room in your suitcase but also makes you feel more put-together on the go. These comfy but tailored pants from Uniqlo can be worn casually or dressed up, making them the perfect pair to travel in for long periods.

A two-in-one product that is perfect for face and lips is a godsend on the road, and this Merit lightly tinted balm is highly rated. It is the perfect product to throw in your bag for when you want to do a real quick touch-up, no matter where you are. Not to mention it’s one of our senior shopping editor’s favorite cream blushes .

The pinnacle of traveling well comes down to one word: Rimowa. The cases are classic, luxurious, and durable, though definitely a splurge. If you’re traveling for long stretches of time, and often, they can be worth the price point.

There are a lot of chaotic things about traveling, but keeping track of your bag doesn’t have to be one of them. Make sure you know where it is at all times with these Apple AirTags.

Pets under 20 pounds are allowed to fly in a carrier under the seat in front of you, and this stylish option from Wild One opens into a bed so your pet can relax at the gate before you both board.

Most fragrances do not come in a three-ounce bottle, and it can be quite a risk to send a glass bottle in your checked bag, so it might be safer to opt for something like this. Even when you are not traveling, these little cases are convenient to throw in a bag so that you always can carry around your favorite scent.

. A Month or More

We’re way past suggesting hand cream and new luggage because, at this point, you’re practically moving to your destination. These are the things that upgrade you from a casual traveler to a pro and will make your longer flights and longer stays more comfortable

If you’re spending a month in another destination, we’re sure you have your new workout scheduled on lock. However, your recovery is just as important. This recovery cube from Therabody is small enough to not occupy to much space in your luggage and strong enough to reduces any soreness and stiffness you body develops.

Carrying an extra six pounds might seem a bit excessive, but if you’re on a long flight and you’re staying over a month in your new destination, you might as well be as cozy and comfortable as possible. This travel-size weighted blanket from Bearaby comes in its own duffel bag, so it can easily be your personal item or be checked in with no problem.

Want to be able to still do full glam while you’re away? This rechargeable and slim travel vanity mirror will help your makeup look flawless no matter your lighting situation.

You may have seen this on your TikTok FYP. It allows you to connect your Bluetooth headphones (hello, AirPod Maxes ) to airplane screens, so you can watch your favorite comfort movie or episode of Sex and the City without worrying about bringing a corded pair or needing to purchase those cheap plane headphones in the air.

Chances you’ll come back from vacation with more clothes than you went there with are high, so consider packing this foldable nylon tote to hold all your overstock.

Travel with ease knowing that your necklaces won’t get tangled and all your earrings are safe and sound in one place.

Wrinkled clothes are unavoidable when you travel. But you can quickly get your clothing back into crisp shape with this portable steam iron. Not only can it fit any suitcase or tote, it has six clothing settings so you can steam anything from linen pants to a silk blouse in little to no time.

This pill case also came from our TikTok FYP and is small enough to fit in any purse, but has enough storage to hold all your medicine, vitamins, and supplements.

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The ultimate travel essentials checklist: Don’t leave home without these items

These are our go-to travel essentials for 2023.

As the old saying goes, life happens. Even the most experienced travelers occasionally forget to pack everything they need . Especially when we’re busy multitasking and juggling other work and life duties, we might forget some things. This is why it’s important to have a travel essentials checklist, regardless of if you’re a veteran globetrotter or a novice traveler.

Toiletries and Grooming

Connectivity, why use a travel essentials checklist.

A checklist will not only keep track of your belongings, but it can also reduce the likelihood of forgetting to pack key essentials while overpacking items that may not be as necessary. Whether you need to prepare for a big business trip or you want to simply enjoy every second of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure to your favorite destination, we understand how stressful it can be to devise the right packing strategy. This is why we have our travel essentials checklist to make your packing easier.

Travelpro Roadtrip 30-inch Drop-Bottom Rolling Duffel 

Every so often, it happens: We start packing, and we freak out as we worry whether everything will fit and whether you’ll make your bag too heavy. If you’re a frequent flyer , you probably value a suitcase that’s durable, flexible, full of space for you to fit everything you need, and light enough to help you stay under most airlines’ 50-pound weight limit.

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If you need the space of a duffel bag, the organization of a compartmentalized bag, and the convenience of a rolling suitcase, Travelpro has given us the best of all worlds with the Roadtrip Rolling Duffel. This incredibly versatile piece of luggage comes with three 10-inch packing cubes to use in the main duffel compartment, an extra zippered storage compartment below the duffel compartment, and zippered pockets on the sides for even more storage. The wheels on the bottom are specially designed for a sturdy and smooth roll, while its polyester exterior is designed to resist water, stains, and abrasions.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Choosing the ideal carry-on comes down to caring for your own personal needs. Whether you need it as a supplemental suitcase to your checked luggage or as a carry-on that functions as your primary bag, the Away Bigger Carry On Spinner is up for the challenge. It’s perfect for weekend getaways, and you can use it as your primary luggage on business trips. It features 360-degree spinner wheels, a removable battery to charge your phone, and an integrated TSA combination lock.

mDesign four-pocket travel bag

We’ve all been behind that person in the security line who takes forever removing items from their carry-on. Was it inexperience, or was it a lack of organization? Whatever the case, don’t be that person. Get organized , and you will be the envy of fellow passengers and TSA agents alike.

While mDesign bills this four-pocket bag as a travel electronics bag, we’ve also found it useful as a very well-organized toiletries bag. It’s made with durable and rip-stop polyester fabric, and it has two-way zippers that feature easy-grip, silicone pull. It’s very flexible, and it can handle just about anything you need it for.

Dr. Tusk Natural Charcoal Deodorant

Dr. Tusk knows how to deliver high-quality grooming products that are good for you and good for the planet. That’s why we like to keep Dr. Tusk’s Natural Charcoal Deodorant handy in our suitcase. Not only do we love the Burmese sandalwood and bergamot scent, but we also appreciate Dr. Tusk’s proprietary blend of hemp and caffeine to fend off the stench of body odor all day. Even better, it comes in a convenient tube that’s easy to slip into your luggage.

Henry Rose Travel Spray

As Henry Rose founder Michelle Pfeiffer says, “You shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality for safety.” Now that Henry Rose offers eight milliliter (or 0.27 ounce) travel size bottles of their top fragrances – including our personal favorite “Dark Is Night”, and the refreshing “Flora Carnivora” – you can enjoy the finest non-toxic and eco-friendly scents wherever you go. Whether you need to prepare for some critical working dinners on your business trip or a big night out during your romantic getaway, Henry Rose has you covered with scents that make every occasion a little more special.

Cardon Travel Skincare Set

If you worry about missing out on necessary skincare during your trip, then Cardon has what you’re looking for. With a convenient tube of SPF 30 moisturizer, a mini-tube of purifying clay cleanser, and a mini-tube of their three-in-one hydro boost gel moisturizer, Cardon’s Travel Skincare Set ensures that you won’t have to neglect your skin while you’re traveling. With non-toxic and natural ingredients, industry-leading innovation, and incredible ease of use, Cardon’s travel set makes it easy for you to keep looking and feeling your best.

MLVOC Travel Pillow

The more you travel, the better you get at packing the essentials that cater to your specific needs for surviving – and thriving – during long flights. train trips, and car rides. This travel pillow kit comes with a contoured eye mask and earplugs, which help you enjoy more comfort during your trip.

Loop earplugs

If you need more heavy-duty ear protection and noise cancellation, Loop hears you. If you’d rather not hear the mayhem on the airplane, pop on a pair of Loop’s Quiet earplugs for the ultimate sound of peace and quiet. They’re ergonomically designed for maximum comfort, they’re easily washable and reusable, and you don’t even have to charge them or insert a battery in order for them to work. They’re also backed for a lifetime warranty, so Loop can also give you some much needed peace of mind.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Smart Headphones

In case you don’t want absolute quiet during your flight or train ride, noise-canceling headphones can help you tune out the unwanted distractions while tuning into your favorite album, a brand-new podcast , or that new show on HBO Max that everyone’s talking about. Bose Noise Canceling headphones are among our top favorites due to their premium sound quality and great feel. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Smart Headphones are over-ear headphones that will ensure comfort and top audio quality.

Sans Matin – The Eduardo

Since shoes literally carry you every step of the way, it’s important to pick the right shoes that can help you survive nearly any occasion when you’re packing for a trip. Sans Matin’s Eduardos easily fit this bill: They look quite chic, they’re sturdy enough to handle everything from a hike up the mountain to a walk through a souk, and they’re shoes that make you feel good inside and out. The Eduardos are ethically handmade in Colombia with locally sourced premium leather, a triple-layered footbed for extra comfort, a white outsole with 60 percent natural tree rubber, and an elegant sandy-colored design that makes these shoes great for your itinerary throughout the day.

Rainbow Double Layer Classic Rubber 2.0 Sandals

You know what they say: Life’s too short to hurt your feet while wearing flimsy flip-flops. We’ve made the mistake of packing supermarket flip-flops for trips in the past, and we’ve since learned the value of utilizing sandals that are designed with feet in mind. Rainbow has excelled in making sandals that feel good and last long, so the extra investment will really pay off once it becomes clear that you won’t have to chuck these sandals after one trip. We especially like the Rainbow Double Layer Classic Rubber 2.0 with targeted arch support, slip protection on the top sole and the bottom, and one-inch, double-stitched, and rubber-filled jacquard nylon straps that hold together no matter where you wear them.

Patagonia Men’s Calcite Jacket

Nothing can ruin a long-awaited trip more than being caught by surprise by Mother Nature. Even if you think you’re in for a dry trip, that doesn’t mean rain can’t (or won’t) pour onto your itinerary. Purchasing a premium rain jacket will pay dividends for years to come as you defy the elements without a single worry. While there is an endless array of options, the Patagonia Calcite line is our pick for rain jackets that are both stylish as well as functional.  

Ray-Ban 2132 New Wayfarer Classic

There are several schools of thought when it comes to sunglasses and travel. You might ask yourself, “Should I just carry cheap sunglasses in the event that I lose them or break them while traveling?” With that being said, premium sunglasses can enhance your experience with better vision. Whether your trip involves fishing, high-altitude destinations, long driving, or spending any time on the water, high-quality lenses help improve visibility and clarity. It’s best to opt for polarized lenses for UV protection. These Ray-Ban Wayfarers protect your eyes and help elevate your look.

Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD

Perhaps the only thing worse than being without connectivity is searching for a power source when our phone’s battery runs low. Portable power banks such as the Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD are ideal for traveling, as their streamlined design fits in any carry-on. In addition to keeping your phone charged, it will keep your other USB-C devices (including notebook computers) powered.

Skyroam 4G Wi-Fi Hotspot

Let’s face it, many of us habitually take our phones and tablets with us everywhere. But when we’re hit with the reality of roaming charges, limited network availability, and even the possibility of having to switch out our SIM cards, our smart devices don’t look so smart any more. Thankfully, Wi-Fi hotspots like SkyRoam provide reliable internet in over 130 countries.

Tile Mate and Slim Combo (four-pack)

If you want to keep tabs on all your things, a GPS tracker like Tile’s works great on your essential items such as your wallet, keys, passport, or travel bag. Phew, that’s one fewer thing to worry about!

Spot X Satellite Messenger

Before satellite phones and two-way satellite messengers, family and friends had to wait until those who were off the grid emerged from their wilderness adventures. The SPOT X device allows your loved ones at home to follow your progress. In the event of a life-threatening situation, they can simply press the S.O.S. button and communicate directly with emergency services.

Free and low-cost COVID-19 tests

If you’ve ever thought about getting tested, now’s the time to act. It’s easier than ever… And it may even be free! Though the U.S. government unfortunately ended its free rapid-test kit home delivery program this past summer, low-cost and no-cost COVID-19 tests are probably still available in your community. Not only do CVS, Walgreens, and Quest Diagnostics continue to provide COVID-19 tests at many of their locations across the U.S., but you may have additional options in your area – such as community health centers and independent pharmacies.

Aquasana Stainless Steel Insulated Clean Water Bottle

With more airports offering water refilling stations, we have even fewer reasons to buy overpriced single-use plastic water bottles at the airport stores. Reusable water bottles are a great way to keep hydration close at hand while reducing your individual dependency on plastic water bottles, and they ensure your water stays colder longer.

Aquasana’s stainless steel water bottle has a built-in filter that can remove up to 99 percent of bacteria, lead, chlorine, cryptosporidium, and giardia from tap water. Even better, this one BPA-free insulated stainless steel bottle with one patented high-tech filter can replace over 600 single-use plastic water bottles.

Patagonia Provisions

Traveling may provide the perfect excuse to splurge on some cheat meals, but sooner or later reality catches up with us. Carrying an assortment of nutritional options can also provide the right snack for your dietary needs. Looking for a little more variety, Patagonia Provisions has a lineup that includes buffalo jerky, smoked salmon, and fruit bars.

Buy at Patagonia Provisions

A checklist of travel essentials can help you prepare for any and every type of trip, from a weekend road trip to an overseas flight. Feel free to mix and match depending on the particulars of your adventure. A travel essentials checklist will ensure that you keep track of what you need to pack. This way, you can spend less time stressing about your trip and more time enjoying the thought of where you’ll be heading next.

We hope you’ve found this guide helpful, and we invite you to stay with us a little longer for more help planning out your next trip. For more inspiration, check out our how-to guide for packing your bags like a pro , the best suitcase for every travel situation , and the top destinations for digital nomad remote work . With that said, it’s time to get packing and get ready for more travel!

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• Travel Guides

Since it has been over a year since we were forced to stay inside our homes due to the pandemic, it's pretty understandable if you’re yearning to explore the great outdoors or pay a nostalgic visit to some of your favorite destinations. Worry not, because we've got you covered if you're planning a road trip — whether it's a family trip or a solo adventure to somewhere exhilarating.  

Road trips can be a form of escapism from the monotony of daily life. At times, all we need is a new environment, along with our favorite road trip snacks, to recharge our mental batteries. While it’s tempting to view road trips through rose-tinted glasses, take into consideration that planning for a road trip can be a taxing experience. For instance, you need to update your emergency kit and figure out how to cook food and stay clean on the road.

The rental car apocalypse is upon us. Gone are the pre-pandemic days when you could book a vehicle at the last minute and still be assured of scoring a deal. This summer, prices are high and availability is startlingly low. Waiting till the last minute might land you a $200-a-day deal for a mid-sized vehicle, or even no vehicle at all. How did this happen? Over the last 12 months, many car rental companies (those that didn’t declare bankruptcy) slashed their stocks in order to stay alive. Now that Americans are hitting the road once again, rental outfits simply can’t meet the demand.

While you might have to put the great American road trip on hold, there’s no need to cancel your travel plans altogether. There are many places where you can still plan a rewarding getaway. In truth, it can be liberating to travel without a car. Not only will you be doing the Earth a favor by reducing your carbon footprint, you won’t have to worry about the hassle of long lines at the rental counter, dealing with heavy traffic on unfamiliar interstates, or hunting for a gas station before you return the vehicle (or dropping it off on “empty,” which entails its own special brand of white-knuckled anxiety). Car-free sometimes means carefree, and going green never felt so right. New York City & the Hamptons

As the days get longer and warmer, many people are looking to make an escape for a domestic getaway these days — even if it involves rediscovering your own city during a staycation. Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most popular destinations for those traveling through the Low Country, and with good reason, too. The posh city is filled with incredible restaurants, bars with impressive drink menus, scenic shopping, and plenty of space on the beach. Whether you are looking for an upbeat weekend escape or a place to live well while you relax, Charleston has so much to offer. Where to Stay Tired of staying in your apartment? Or want to book a hotel that is within walking distance of local attractions? Lucky for you, Charleston has plenty of lodging options that will suit your budget, needs, and lifestyle. From trendy hotels to cozy apartments, here are our top picks. Best Airbnb: Upper King Street Apartment

Set in an 1820s farmhouse, this tidy, modern stay features one bedroom and one bathroom as well as a living area, kitchen, and even a laundry closet making it a suitable option for up to two people. Thanks to its wonderful downtown location, this apartment is within walking distance of many attractions, though ride services can be easily called to reach further parts of the peninsula. Of course, Wi-Fi and a television are available in the booking as well. One major bonus for this location is an off-street parking spot which is a must-have for those driving into the city. However, it should also be noted that this apartment is a second-floor walk-up which means it is not ADA accessible.

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37 Travel Essentials Travel Experts Never Go on Vacation Without

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whenever I pack, mistakes are made. Though I'm a meticulous list-maker, I always manage to forget something vital—pads and tampons , deodorant , you name it. For one thing, I've never remembered to bring an outlet adapter on an international trip with me. Never. I've forgotten toothpaste on more occasions than I'd like to admit. And in one particularly horrifying slip-up, I went on a weekend trip without packing any underwear at all. While adapters and toothpaste are share-able items, underwear isn't something you can borrow from a travel companion. Thankfully, the underwear I was already wearing was able to tide me over for the three days I was gone. But still. Ick.

I've come to realize that the most efficient way for me to pack is to keep a running list of travel essentials—things I know I'll need for literally any trip I'm taking. I have one list in my phone for domestic travel , and one for international travel; both keep me from experiencing the apparently inevitable oh-my-god-I-can't-believe-I-forgot-to-pack-that slip-up.

To make sure I wasn't missing anything (as I am clearly wont to do), I reached out to self-proclaimed travel experts to find out what their go-to travel essentials are—and they had a ton . While some of their recommendations were pretty straightforward ( books , noise-cancelling headphones, outlet adapters), others were expert-level life hacks I'd never considered before (an on-the-go WiFi hotspot, a mini steamer, a portable luggage scale).

Needless to say, both of my packing lists ended up longer—and better—after writing this story.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing Cubes

"Packing cubes help me stay organized . I always organize my cubes by what's in them: workout clothes in one, fancier clothes in another, and so on. It's made traveling between destinations on the same trip a lot easier." —Louisa G., 32, a luxury travel adviser who goes on at least one trip each month

Buy it: 4-Pack Packing Cubes, $25, amazon.com

On-the-Go Detergent

"I always bring a small container of laundry detergent so I can hand-wash clothes in the sink. If I can do laundry on-the-go, I don't have to pack as many outfits." —Nikki G., 34, a travel blogger who takes four or five international trips and one or two domestic trips each year

Buy it: SinkSuds Travel Laundry Detergent (Pack of 6 Packets), $19, amazon.com

A Microplane

"I bring a microplane with me wherever I go. It's easy to pack (though you have to put it in checked luggage), and it's great for grating spices , ginger, garlic, cheese, and more while cooking." —Josie S., 64, a blogger who spends between three and eight months traveling each year

Buy it: Microplane 38000 Professional Coarse Grater, $16, amazon.com

A Portable Hotspot

"All my work is on my computer. And since I don't always have Wi-Fi access while traveling, I carry a broadband hotspot with me so I can connect to the internet whenever I need to." —Susan S., 70, an author who has lived and worked out of a van, trailer, or RV for the past 30 years

Buy it: GlocalMe Mobile Hotspot, $165, amazon.com

"My eyes are really sensitive, so it's nice to have relief drops on hand whenever I need them." —Lexi P., 25, a marketing manager who travels for work (and fun!)

Buy it: TheraTears Eye Drops (30 Count), $10, amazon.com

Binder Clips

"I always carry binder clips—yes, as in the office supply. You can use them to hang up wet clothes, close bags, temporarily repair torn hems, hold broken luggage straps together, keep track of electronic cords, and, of course, keep any papers you need together." —Kelly H., 56, a writer and editor who's considered herself a "full-time" traveler since 2009

Buy it: 120-Pack Binder Clips, $14, amazon.com

A Small, Battery-Operated Fan

"I always put a small, battery-operated travel fan in my bag. It comes in handy when I travel to warm places with limited outlet space. Plus, the hum of the motor helps drown out some of that distracting noise that always seems to crop up at night."—Kari B., 44, a travel blogger who takes at least 18 trips a year

Buy it: OPOLAR Battery-Operated Fan, $14, amazon.com

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

"I don't go anywhere without my Bose noise-cancelling headphones. I'm a frequent flyer, and my quality of life increased exponentially when I bought them. Anyone who travels often knows how tiring, stressful, and all-around loud it can be. There are so many things you can't control while you travel, but blocking noise is something you actually can." —Lauren M., 29, a writer and public speaker whose job has offices in D.C., Austin, and Barcelona

Buy it: Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones, $349, amazon.com

"When I'm flying, I always travel with Vaseline. The air on planes can get really dry, and Vaseline keeps my skin (and lips) from drying out, too." —Rebecca G., 42, a co-founder of a healthy lifestyle brand who hosts three international wellness retreats each year

Buy it: 4-Pack Vaseline, $8, amazon.com

A Travel Adapter

"If you're traveling internationally, an adapter is a must-have. I always used to forget to bring them with me, but now I keep one in my cosmetic bag." —Jean W., 64, an owner of a tourism company who travels five times a year

Buy it: Universal Travel Adapter, $12, amazon.com

A Mini Steamer

"When traveling, I can't leave home without my Joy Mangano steamer. It's literally the best steamer I've ever owned, and it helps me get any packing-induced wrinkles out of my clothing." —Sandy C., 57, a cruise agency founder who travels at least 20 times a year

Buy it: HiLife Mini Travel Steamer, $27, amazon.com

Travel Underwear

"Travel underwear is a must. It looks just like regular underwear, but the fabric dries quickly when you wash it by hand." —Trang P., 29, a travel blogger who takes full advantage of the vacation days she gets through her job

Buy it: ExOfficio Give-N-Go Bikini Briefs, from $10, amazon.com

"My iPad serves as my travel guide, itinerary, calendar, library, photo storage, and Netflix when traveling. It acts as a book on the beach and as a notebook whenever I need to keep track of great spots I've visited." —Jessica A., 25, a partnerships manager for a travel company who currently lives in Spain

Buy it: Apple iPad Mini, $400, amazon.com

A Small Spray Bottle

"I always put a travel-sized spray bottle in my suitcase. I don't really iron, so I do my best to travel with clothes that don't wrinkle much. But when wrinkles (inevitably) appear, I hang my clothes up and spray them with water. Usually, that's all I need to keep them looking fresh and presentable." —Jessica V., 41, an entrepreneur who spends about half the year traveling

Buy it: 50 Oz. Mist Spray Bottle, $7, Amazon

"I'm British, so I actually bring tea with me on trips. It comes in handy when the breakfast tea isn't up to snuff, or when there's nowhere to get tea near where I'm staying." —Caroline R., 42, a volunteer organization employee who travels for work

Buy it: 20-Pack Tea Bags, $10, amazon.com

A Solar Charger

"A solar battery is perfect for when the power goes out, and it's great for bringing on long hikes , too. I love that I can keep my devices charged even when I'm off the grid." —Kristin A., 32, a travel blogger who spends most of the year traveling

Buy it: Kiizon 25000mAh Solar Power Bank, $40, amazon.com

A Facial Spray

"I'm a big fan of facial sprays—like the Evian ones—for long flights. Flying doesn't have to mean wearing your Sunday best, but it can be an opportunity to relax in a way you don't usually get to. To be honest, I probably take better of myself when traveling than I do on the daily!" —Kate M., 30, a travel publicist who takes one domestic trip a month and several international trips each year

Buy it: Evian Natural Water Facial Spray, $19, amazon.com

"While traveling in Europe with my two kids, the zipper on one of our suitcases popped. Thankfully, it was toward the end of the trip, so we were able to toss everything we no longer needed into that bag and duct tape is shut. We might have looked silly, but it saved us from buying an astronomically expensive suitcase overseas." —Tiffany K., 37, a business owner who travels with her family two or three times each year

Buy it: TopSoon All-Purpose Duct Tape, $7, amazon.com

An Extension Cord

"My extension cord comes with me on any international trip I take. Depending on where I'm staying, it can be hard to find enough outlets—and sometimes, those I do find are hidden or out-of-reach. But when I bring an extension cord with me, it becomes a lot easier to keep my devices charged." —Jacquie W., 61, a travel company owner who takes between three and six multi-week trips a year

Buy it: 12-Foot 3-Outlet Extension Cord, $15, amazon.com

"I always keep bobby pins, gum, and a small vial of perfume with me so I'm able to quickly freshen up any time I step off a plane." —Jennifer L., 33, a travel company manager who travels to up to 20 countries each year

Buy it: 120-Pack Bobby Pins, $10, amazon.com

"I hate walking around barefoot in hotel rooms, on flights, and on train rides, so I always pack some slippers in my bag. My mom buys me a new pair every Christmas!" —Mallory L., 31, a travel blogger who travels eight times each year

Buy it: Women's Velvet Memory Foam Slippers, $18, amazon.com

Face Washcloths

"I tend to visit hot countries, so I always carry a water bottle and face cloth with me. Nothing cools you off like a little cold water splashed onto a washcloth." —Caroline R., 42, who travels for her job at a volunteer organization

Buy it: 6-Pack Luxury Bamboo Facial Washcloths, $16, amazon.com

"My camera is a great conversation starter. It's easy to make friends in unknown places when you're shooting the environment around you. It's also a fun segue into asking locals if there's anything in particular I should see during my trip." —Monica R., 38, a podcaster, writer, and photographer who travels six times per year

Buy i: Nikon D3300, $397, amazon.com

A Foldable Bag

"I always bring a foldable bag that packs flat in my suitcase, because I'm always bringing souvenirs home with me. My favorite is from Longchamp." —Erina P., 33, a luxury travel adviser

Buy it: Longchamp Le Pliage Medium Shoulder Tote, $125, neimanmarcus.com

Portable Mattress Pad

"I always bring a Thermarest mattress pad with me. It's made for campers and backpackers, but it works really well on flat-bed business class seats. I've even used it in hotels where the beds are too hard." —Hilary S., 45, the CEO of a luxury travel company who travels up to nine times each year

Buy it: Thermarest ProLite Self-Inflating Backpacking Pad, $75, amazon.com

A Power Strip

"I always, always, always carry a power strip. You never know when you'll stay somewhere that doesn't have enough outlets for all your gadgets. As a travel blogger, I typically tote around a laptop, heaps of camera gear, a drone, my phone, and more; if I can't keep everything charged, I can't do my job." —Megan S., 34, a travel blogger who spent eight months traveling last year

Buy it: AmazonBasics Power Strip, $10, amazon.com

A Cosmetic Bag Full of Medicine

"I have a ready-to-go cosmetic bag filled with any medicine I could possibly need. You never know when you'll hurt yourself or have a bad reaction to something you ate." —Lori L., 45, a travel blogger who takes six trips a year

Buy it: Parateck Waterproof Travel Bag, $6, amazon.com

A Travel Charger

"To make sure my lifeline—err, phone—is always at full-battery, I carry a lightweight travel charger with me wherever I go." —Megan S., 34, a blogger who travels for eight months or more each year

Buy it: BONAI 5800mAh Power Bank, $18, amazon.com

"The one item you'll always find in my bag is earplugs. I really value getting enough sleep , and earplugs can make even the loudest hotel or worst flight bearable." —Laura L., 37, a travel writer and photographer who spends 100 days traveling each year

Buy it: 50-Pack Soft Foam Earplugs, $18, amazon.com

A Carry-On Pouch Full of First-Aid Supplies

"I keep a carry-on pouch full of things like medicine, bandaids, and a thermometer. I have kids, so I like to be prepared. The last thing I want to do is hunt for a 24-hour pharmacy in the middle of nowhere." —Christina V., 42, a travel writer who takes 10 trips a year

Buy it: All-Purpose First Aid Kit, $15, amazon.com

"I don't get to read that often, so it's one of my favorite things to do on vacation—especially while I'm in transit. I have a lengthy to-read list for these occasions, and my Kindle is a lightweight way for me to work my way through them." —Jme T., 41, a charity founder who's been to seven countries in the last year

Buy it: All New Kindle, $90, amazon.com

A Laundry Bag

"I bring a laundry bag with me any time I go on a trip. It helps me separate my dirty clothes from my clean ones, so the moment I get home, I know what needs to be washed and what I can put back in my drawers." —Louisa G., 32, a luxury travel adviser who takes at least one trip each month

Buy it here: 4-Pack Mesh Laundry Bags, $8, amazon.com

A Lightweight Hair Dryer

"I always keep a lightweight hair dryer and curling iron in my suitcase, so I can keep my hair from getting frizzy on trips." —Kim K., 43, a PR agent who travels for five months each year

Buy it: Berta Hair Dryer, $40, amazon.com

A Portable Luggage Scale

"I always pack a handheld luggage scale. It's always better to have peace of mind and know your suitcase is within the weight limit when coming back from a long trip; the last thing you want is to haphazardly throw things in your carry-on at the airport in a last-ditch effort to make your luggage lighter." —Annie S., 30, an author who takes three or four trips each year

Buy it here: Portable Luggage Scale, $9, amazon.com

Plastic Birkenstocks

"Plastic. Birkenstocks. (Yes, plastic.) They're the ultimate shoe for versatility and durability while also being reasonably attractive. I live in a rural town in Costa Rica, and I spend a lot of time hiking on muddy trails and through marshy rivers. I know exactly which shoes last and which shoes don't; a pair of super expensive, water-resistant shoes lasted me two months, whereas my Birkenstocks have lasted two years (and counting). " —Elizabeth A., 29,

Buy it here: Birkenstock Unisex Sandals, $30, amazon.com

"I always carry antibacterial wipes in my carry-on. Getting sick on the road is the absolute worst, so I try to wipe down tray tables, arm rests, and any other surfaces that might need disinfecting before interacting with them." —Kashlee K., 32, an author who spends at least nine months traveling each year

Buy it here: 20-Pack Wet Ones Antibacterial Wipes, $15, amazon.com

A Travel Organizer

"I love my RuMe travel organizer because it allows me to pack a decent amount of clothing—plus, it folds to fit inside a standard carry-on bag." —Peta-Gaye D., 37, a travel blogger who takes at least two trips per year

Buy it: RuMe Bags Travel Organizer, $33, amazon.com

• Travel Experts Share the 57 Pieces of Luggage They Love Most
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SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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13 Travel Essentials You Need to Bring on Any Trip

No matter if it’s just for the day, a week, or a whole year, these are the travel essentials we pack every time we leave home.

Here at Pack Hacker, we’re pros at minimalist travel. From finding ways to lighten our packs to figuring out what gear we can live without for a few days, we’re always searching for ways to make the most out of what we’re packing.

While your vacation packing list may change from place to place and season to season, you’ll always find room for some travel essentials . From a way to carry your cash and cards to how you’ll stay hydrated and energized on the road, there are some things we can’t live without, even for a few days. Your phone isn’t any good without a charge, after all.

In this post, we’re taking a look at the gear we never leave home without, whether we’re heading across town or around the world . Let’s get down to the bare travel necessities.

Minimalist Wallet

An unsightly bulge in your front pocket can lead to questions from friends and odd looks from strangers. Avoid the embarrassment—and the backache that comes from sitting for hours on a pile of credit cards and cash—with a minimalist wallet .

It gives you just enough space for your travel essentials, so you can spend less time searching through the cards you don’t often use or won’t need on the road. The frequent sipper card to your local cafe won’t do you much good at the Starbucks in Seattle, after all. It’s more packable, too, so it will fit in a small sling or the front pocket of your pants—without any wardrobe malfunction—for added security against pickpockets.

We like the Bellroy Flip Case Wallet because its hard shell keeps our cards from getting bent, and its leather design looks sleek and professional, so it’ll fit in whether you’re at a fancy dinner or a street market—unlike the duct tape wallet you made in middle school. However, the lack of flexibility limits you to only eight cards or six plus a few bills. Look on the bright side—Bellroy is guiding you on the path to minimalist travel with this one.

Or, for more versatility, try the Fjallraven Kanken Card Wallet . We like that its flexible shape expands to fit more cards and cash when needed without taking up much more space. And since Fjallraven uses the same heavy-duty materials for the Kanken Card Wallet as Kanken bags, it’ll make your travel essentials list for years to come.

Battery Banks and Wall Chargers

A power bank can turn that emoji frown upside down, ensuring you stay connected while on the road. And while it’s nice to have continuous juice to your phone for social media and games, a battery bank becomes a true travel essential when using it for your digital boarding pass. We like banks that fit in our pocket, like the Clutch Charger V2 , one of the thinnest power banks we’ve tested. It has a built-in charging cable, so you don’t have to pack anything extra, though you will have to choose whether you want Lightning, Android, or wireless charging when you buy it.

It’s also important to know the size of your device’s battery before buying a power bank, so you can get a charger that will get your device back up to 100%—maybe even more than once.

While you may have USB plugs at home, or a wireless charger, make room in your backpack for a wall charger. There’s no guarantee your Airbnb will have a place to plug in your cord, so they're travel necessities. We like to choose a wall charger with multiple ports to charge several devices simultaneously, minimizing the wall chargers we have to pack in our carry-on bag .

Merino Wool Clothing

The path to minimalist travel nirvana goes through a sea of versatile gear. Packing options that work for more than one reason will reduce the weight of your bag. We like Merino wool travel clothing because you can bring fewer items, saving space in your pack. You won’t need a T-shirt for each day of your trip if your clothes are made with Merino since it’s naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking to give you more wears between washes.

We suggest washing Merino wool T-shirts after 10 to 20 wears, and underwear can last between 5 and 10 uses before washing (if that doesn’t gross you out). You can wash Merino wool more frequently; just know that the product's lifecycle may shorten the more times it's submerged in soap.

Otherwise, it’s durable, which is great for the digital nomad who needs fashion that lasts through months of non-stop travel—you’re not packing your entire walk-in closet to country-hop through Europe, after all.

You can find just about anything made with Merino wool, from button-downs and dresses to socks, underwear, and workout clothes. Depending on your comfort level, you can wear the same pair of socks or underwear for days between washings, and Merino wool T-shirts act as great base layers, so they're travel necessities in any season. We add Merino wool pants to our travel essentials list because they’re durable enough for any adventure—unlike thin cotton spandex leggings.

Crossbody Sling

Finding the right size bag for any situation is the key to a great trip, and when you’re exploring a new city or checking out the local farmer’s market, a sling can make it easier to carry your travel essentials. Wearing one crossbody style keeps your hands free and your gear within reach.

They’re not just great for shopping for snacks and souvenirs; they can also be great airport companions. When you have to empty your pockets to go through security, you can place your belongings in the sling to keep everything contained in one bin—it’s no fun to be the person called back to the line because you walked off without your passport. On the plane, personal items like your phone, e-reader, and Nintendo Switch will be within easy reach during a long flight.

There’s a crossbody sling style out there for everyone. We love the Bellroy Venture Sling 6L because of its exceptional organization in a smaller footprint, although it’s also available in a 9L version when you need more space for travel necessities. If you’re worried about security, the Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling Pack is your travel necessity, thanks to its slashguard mesh and lockable zippers. And when you’re not sure if you’ll need a sling or not, grab the Matador On-Grid Packable Hip Pack . It folds down small enough to fit in your palm, making it a travel essential for minimalist packers.

To find the best sling for your situation, check out our travel sling guide .

Packable Jacket

When traveling, the weather is the one thing we want to predict. It’s too bad Mother Nature doesn’t get more on board with that plan. Since the one consistent thing about the weather is that it’s constantly changing, a packable jacket is a travel necessity. It’s a great way to ensure you’re ready to tackle anything the skies dump on you, depending on the thickness of the extra layer.

Whether heading to the tropics or the arctic, there’s a packable jacket to suit your travel necessities. Lightweight jackets like the Outdoor Research Helium Jacket are great travel essentials for staying dry in the rain, and they’re easier to slip on over thicker clothing. It’s one of the lightest rain jackets we’ve tested, at 5.93 ounces, and packs down to the size of your fist, so there’s no reason to leave this one home.

For days when you’ll need to stay warmer, a puffer jacket can protect you from the elements. The Patagonia Nano Puff is a packable jacket that always makes our travel essentials list. It’s lightweight at 11.89 ounces and packs into its pocket, so you don’t have to keep track of an extra stuff sack. For wetter days, The North Face ThermoBall Eco Jacket is a great midweight layer with a synthetic fill that repels moisture—you’ll stay warm and dry while wearing it.

Water Bottle

It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of traveling to a new place and forget to drink water en route or during your adventures. That makes a water bottle a true travel essential; it will ensure you never go thirsty, wherever you roam.

Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of jet lag, leaving you feeling dull and tired before you set out for your first day’s excursion. It’s expensive paying for single-use bottles at the airport, train, and bus station, or at the tiny hole-in-the-wall you’ve just discovered for takeout. That’s what makes water bottles travel necessities we recommend you pack. While there’s no guarantee of finding a public drinking fountain, more and more major cities and airports are installing fill stations so you can top off your bottle as you pass by—especially in tourist hot spots.

There are plenty of options when it comes to travel water bottles . Some, like the Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle , are collapsible to easily stow in your pack when you’re through drinking. We also like its built-in carabiner to clip the full bottle to the outside of your backpack. When you want something with insulation, go for the Purist Collective Mover 18 oz Bottle , which keeps your drink looking good and tasting cool (or warm, depending on what you're pouring inside!). The thin layer of glass coating on the stainless steel bottle prevents your water, coffee, or tea from tasting metallic.

There’s a water bottle to suit every travel need and taste, so plan for hydration to stay happy and healthy on the road and abroad.

Sometimes your travel pack is a super-organized laptop bag or travel daypack . Sometimes, however, we pack for the weekend in a classic duffle bag with little to no organization. When there aren’t pockets, zipper compartments, and sleeves to spare, it’s easy to lose small gear inside your pack. That’s why pouches are travel necessities for staying organized on the go.

There are plenty to choose from—we should know! (Go ahead and sort our reviews by “organizers and pouches.” We’ll wait for you to go through the pages of available options.) Finding the right one for you is key to a successful remote work trip and a fun vacation. When your pack has a dark interior, choose a pouch with a bright colorway to help it stand out from the shadows. If you’re planning adventurous travels off the beaten path, a durable exterior ensures everything inside will stay safe and sound. Some even come with loops and D-rings to attach to a Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) or attachment loops inside your bag.

We like the Osprey Arcane Zip Pouch for its simple design and solid construction. The recycled nylon ripstop shell prevents tears, and the top zipper is from YKK, one of the most reliable brands out there. Or go for the line-up of Topo Designs Accessory Bags ; with a wide range of colors and three sizes, you can mix and match to suit your needs and complement your pack. No matter which you choose, the bright liner makes it easy to spot even the smallest gear on a dimly lit plane.

Whether hiking a dusty trail through a national park or exploring a new city, the places we like best to explore aren’t always the cleanest. That’s why carabiners are a great travel essential—they hold onto gear you don’t want to set on the ground, no matter if it's your water bottle or your backpack.

These handy clips top our list of travel necessities due to their versatility. Keep your backpack or tote off the restroom floor while you change after a red-eye flight or before a business meeting. Some carabiners, like the Heroclip Hybrid Carabiner Clip , have a built-in hanging hook to turn any table or ledge into your personal bag check. There’s no more need to sling your crossbody bag over the back of your chair where you’ll worry about it walking off with help from someone with nefarious intentions—hang it on the table next to you to keep it close at hand.

Carabiners are also great for hooking pouches, water bottles, and hats outside your pack. For added protection, pick up a locking carabiner. Designed for rock climbing, they'll also ensure your favorite water bottle won’t pop off your pack.

Carabiners are so small that they won’t add a ton of weight, but when you add them to your travel essentials list, you can travel like a scout and always be prepared.

A travel essential you may not know you need is a multitool. We don’t think about it until a screw comes loose on the kitchen chair in an Airbnb, or we want to crack open a local brew.

Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve found them to be surprising travel necessities. Depending on which you choose, it may have a screwdriver to tighten loose hardware on a table leg. You can also use the flathead edge to clean the goop off your airplane’s armrest or your shoe—we always seem to pick up something we don’t want when traveling up and down city streets. Scissors or a wire cutter are handy for cutting loose threads or taking the tags off your new hat.

Many are small enough to fit on a key ring, so you can make new friends as you put your multitool to use. Just be sure to check the local regulations of the airport and country you’re traveling from and to—you may be asked to leave it behind if it’s not allowed. Ultimately, whether you can pass with it or not is up to your TSA officer, so be kind and courteous if they inform you that yours isn’t allowed.

Nothing brings a fun trip to a screeching halt like a hangry travel companion. Fueling your body is just as key to a good travel experience as the gear you bring along. While hopping an early flight is the best way to make the most of your vacation days, airport restaurants may not be open before you leave, and shops and cafes at your destination may still be closed when you land.

Power up with a snack bar on the go to stay satiated before your next meal. Some come with a full meal’s worth of protein and carbs, so you can skip lunch and save the money you’d spend on one of the airline’s snack boxes, which we never think look very appetizing anyway. If you have a faster metabolism, larger bars packed with nuts and granola fuel your body and brain to avoid the post-travel slump.

We also think nut packs, dried fruit, and snack crackers are great travel essentials. They’re lighter alternatives since you never know if your airline will offer a complimentary snack—or if that tiny pack of peanuts will be enough. They’re also great to carry throughout your travel day, for when you want to hop from museum to museum without taking a break. You only live once, and while some of us live through our stomachs, others would prefer to skip lunch to do.all.the.things.

Sunglasses and a Hat

What’s a more quintessential travel necessity than the sunglasses and hat that will protect your winter-pale skin from the tropical sunshine? Protecting your eyes and face from the sun’s bright rays is vital no matter what time of year or where we're heading.

The best travel sunglasses will be flexible and—preferably—foldable to fit in any size bag or pocket without breaking. We like the ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses for their packability—they’re some of the smallest foldable sunglasses we’ve come across. There’s no curve in the lenses, which helps them fold completely flat, although it takes some getting used to the reflection that causes. Or try Foldies Polarized Folding Classics (V2) for a stylish and effective yet budget-friendly option. At least if you leave them in your hotel room, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to replace them!

We also think a hat is a key travel essential. Choose from a foldable option that can collapse down into its brim for the ultimate in packability, or use a KLIPSTA Hat Clip to attach a beach hat to your bag. Whichever way you choose, we’re not leaving home without one.

Crying babies and fellow travelers’ loud conversations are just a few reasons noise-canceling headphones, earbuds, or AirPods make our travel essentials list.

We recommend packing two pairs, if you can, with one having a cord so you can connect to the in-flight entertainment system without needing to ask the flight attendant for disposable ones. Just make sure to pack an adaptable dongle if yours end in a Lightning connector instead of a headphone jack.

Whether you plug in or tune in, the right music, meditation, or movie will help you tune out the cacophony of sounds in the airplane, train, or automobile. We’re partial to Apple AirPods for their great sound and the fact you’ll hardly know they’re in your ears, but they aren’t noise-canceling like some other over-the-ear options. Going with an option that will block all ambient sound will let you fall into the world of an excellent new audiobook or your favorite podcast without distraction. Pick the best option for you, and then tune out the world while you travel to your final destination.

While we know it’s sometimes hard to adjust to a new bed, sleep can be what’s lying between you and a great trip. That said, ambient light from unfamiliar street lamps, the neon LEDs of a hotel room clock, and the blue light from a travel companion’s screen can all come together to block us from getting a good night’s rest.

That’s why we think a buff or a well-fitting sleep mask is a travel essential. The best eye mask will help you fall asleep—and stay there—by blocking the ambient light wreaking havoc on your circadian rhythm. Buffs are great for minimalist travel because they can serve as a scarf, a face mask, or a beanie. These travel necessities are great for when you’re traveling to your destination, as well. Slip a Buff USA Wool Buff or a sleep mask on to get a nap on the train between Paris and Amsterdam and to help you fall asleep on your red-eye flight so you can hit the ground running in London. There’s so much to see that you don’t want to waste time in a tired haze.

If you have room in your pack for a standalone sleep mask, there are plenty of options to consider. You can opt for a silky fabric to reduce the look of fine lines or go for a cooling mask to reduce the puffiness around your tired eyes. There are also ultralight packable options, although most sleep masks won’t weigh down your pack. That means there’s always room for one on our travel essentials list.

So there you have it, the travel necessities we never leave behind when we hit the road. Adding these to your travel essentials list will ease your journey to a new destination and get you to the fun quickly when you get there. What's your favorite travel essential? Join the Pack Hacker Pro Community and let us know!

September 6, 2022

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

A list of travel essentials to make for easy travelling

Travel Travel Inspiration Travel Tips & Hacks Travel Essentials List

Travel without careful planning is like sailing without a compass - you may end up somewhere interesting, but it's more likely that you'll just get lost. That's why having a good travel essentials list is so important. It helps you to make sure that you've got everything you need for your trip, and that you're not forgetting anything important.

Of course, what counts as a travel essential will vary depending on where you're going and what you'll be doing. A beach vacation will require different things than a business trip, for instance. But there are some items that are generally useful no matter where you're going or what you'll be doing. In this article, we explore travel essentials that we recommend everyone to consider packing.

Tips to select the right travel essentials for you

• Pack essentials based on where you’re travelling: what weather is to be expected, what kind of cultural norms might need to followed and any country-specific guidelines on luggage.
• How long you’re travelling for: the longer your vacation or travel time, the more important it is to prioritize the critical essentials such as medicine, global sim cards etc.
• Budgeting: when budgeting for your vacation, include the cost of purchasing any essentials you may need into it so you don’t spend exorbitant amounts.
• Buy nice or buy twice: the last thing you want to do is constantly replace your essentials because you skimped on the first purchase. Find good and sturdy options within your budget
• Be prepared for unforeseen conditions: in unknown countries, it is always better to be prepared than to scramble around at the nth moment.
• Optimize for comfort: at the end of the day, you’re the one who’ll be using the various products. Ensure they are as per your liking to have a pleasant experience.
• Buy your essentials in advance: have a checklist in place when you’re planning your trip and ensure you purchase them well ahead of time to avoid last-minute anxiety and price hikes.

In-flight Essentials

Travelling can be tough on the back - literally. Lugging around a suitcase or heavy duffel bag can lead to strain and pain. That's why we like to be savvy travelers who opt for a backpack. Backpacks are designed to evenly distribute weight across the body, making them more comfortable to carry over long distances. And, when packed correctly, they can actually be lighter than traditional luggage.

• Lightweight carry-on in which all your in-flight essentials can be organized to keep things easily accessible.
• They're also great for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
• Store your laptop and any other electronic devices/valuables you wouldn’t want to leave in your check-in luggage.
• Weight: The lighter, the better.
• Comfort: The shoulder straps, padding, and carry handles combine to offer varying degrees of comfort.
• Usability: Clever design and placement of features determines the ease of use.
• Durability: Largely depends on the material the bag is made with. Use bags for what they’re made for and they’ll last longer.
• Great organization
• Laptop slot
• Comfortable
• Can be tough to carry by the handle

2 Travel/neck pillow

For a relaxing and comfortable flight journey or a snooze on your roadtrips, a neck pillow is ideal. While sleeping on a plane or train is usually difficult (and uncomfortable), a travel pillow can be a good accessory for getting a bit of shut-eye, especially during long and exhausting travel periods. Since a travel pillow can help you get that much-needed rest, finding the right one matters.

• Comfortable sleep during long hours of travel.
• Provide neck support to avoid strain.
• Inflatable and non-inflatable: inflatable is easier to pack.
• Portability.
• Sleeping position: influences the kind of neck support you need while sleeping.
• Versatility
• No travel bag

If you’re not a fan of having earphones or headphones on to block out the noise, we recommend using earplugs when traveling. Not only can they help you get some much-needed rest on long flights or car rides but also protect your ears from the harmful effects of high altitudes and changes in air pressure. They are a simple and effective way to make travel more comfortable and enjoyable. So be sure to pack a pair before your next trip!

• Block out external noise.
• Protect ears from changes in air pressure.
• Size and fit.
• Effectiveness of blocking out noise.
• Re-usability.
• Frequency of use.
• Noise reduction could be better

4 Sleep mask

It can be hard to fall asleep easily when on the move or in unfamiliar places. The increased exposure to light in certain places can also throw you off your regular sleep cycle. To avoid unpleasant flight experiences during long travels or to give yourself the best chance of getting some shut-eye, we recommend having a sleep mask handy.

• Shut out the light and fall asleep.
• Respite from overexposure to light.
• Shape, size and fit.
• Personal preference.
• Material: smoothness and durability.
• Contoured to fit the face
• Easily washable
• Ear plugs are included
• Can be stiff for the first few uses

5 Compression socks

When we travel, we make sure to pack a pair of compression socks. These socks are designed to support your feet and ankles, and they can help to prevent pain and swelling. They're especially important when sitting for long periods of time, such as on a plane or in a car. In addition, compression socks can help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

• Help to improve blood flow in your legs.
• Reduce fluid retention in your legs.
• Material: needs to be stretchable and strong.
• Appropriate pressure rating: 15-20 mmHg.
• Moisture resistant
• Offers great support
• Durable and high quality
• Can only be washed by hand

Tech Essentials

6 travel adapter.

Take it from our experience, the last thing you want is to not be able to plug in your devices and recharge them because of the incompatibility of your stock adapter with the place you’re in. This is where an international travel adapter is a life saver.

• Compatibility with your appliances’ pin types.
• Safety: earthed adapters to prevent damage from power surges.
• Works in more than 150 countries
• 3 USB-A ports and a USB-C port
• Earthed and protects against shocks
• Can be hard to procure due to high demand

7 Global SIM card

As avid travellers ourselves, we can tell you that a global sim card is an essential item for any trip. It gives you the ability to stay connected with friends and family back home. Whether you're posting pictures to social media or just sending a quick text, it's nice to be able to stay in touch. If you lose your phone or have it stolen, you can use your card to call for help. So if you're planning a trip, be sure to pick up a global sim card before you go.

• Phone calls.
• Internet Data.
• Keep track of your expenses: with most cards, you can view your balance and transaction history online, which makes it easy to stay on budget
• Place of travel.
• Plans/packages required as per your use.
• Network coverage/reliability.
• Seamless data connectivity
• Works in over 190 countries and regions
• Good customer support

8 Portable WiFi

When we travel, we want to be able to stay connected with our loved ones and have access to all of the information we need at our fingertips. That's why portable wifi is such a lifesaver. Portable wifi gives you a personal, secure connection that you can take with you wherever you go. Whether you're exploring a new city or just trying to stay connected while on the road, portable wifi is the perfect solution. And because it's so affordable, there's no reason not to take advantage of this lifesaving technology. So if you're looking for a way to stay connected while you travel, be sure to consider portable wifi. It might just be the best decision you ever make.

• 5Ghz support.
• Battery life.
• Easy to set up.
• Your individual/group data requirements.
• Lightweight, compact design
• Multiple devices can be connected
• Comparatively lower battery life

9 Power strip

One of the most annoying things about travelling is trying to find a place to charge your electronics. Whether you're trying to find an available outlet at the airport or trying to squeeze your way into a crowded coffee shop, it can be a challenge to keep your devices powered up. That's why we always travel with a power strip. It's one less thing to worry about, and it means you'll always have a place to charge your phone, tablet, or laptop. So next time you're packing for a trip, make sure to throw a power strip into your bag. It might just come in handy.

• Plug in and charge multiple devices at once.
• Access hard to reach sockets.
• Output voltage: needs to be in line with the requirement of standard devices.
• Number of sockets required.
• Length of the cord.
• Required pin type.
• Safety: presence of an inbuilt and/or earthing.
• 5-foot power cord
• 2 surge-protected AC outlets and 4 smart USB ports
• Body not of the highest quality

10 Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Another essential to keep handy for times when you wanna tune out and escape the surrounding noise. It can be difficult to constantly be in a noisy environment when you're trying to fall asleep or trying to relax. To disconnect or to keep yourself entertained, it is best to have your trusted noise-canceling headphones with you

• In-flight/on-the-road entertainment.
• Durability.
• Sound quality
• Brilliant noise-cancelling

11 Power Bank

A power bank is one of the most important travel accessories you can pack. Whether your phone is your camera, your map, your boarding pass or your lifeline to friends and family, you need to know it will be there when you need it. A power bank gives you the peace of mind of always having a backup charge for your devices, whether you're stuck on a long layover or exploring a new city. We recommend packing a power bank whenever you travel, so you can stay connected and make the most of your trip.

• Number of ports.
• Size and weight.
• Charging speed.
• Battery life of the power bank.
• Battery life
• Fast charging
• Comparatively heavier and clunky

Travel Organizers

12 toiletries kit.

We cannot stress the importance of a toiletries kit enough. It makes your life on the move a lot easier and keeps your grooming essentials such as toothpastes, shampoos, and deodorants within reach. What’s more important, it keeps your toiletries organized so you don’t have to dig through your luggage to keep yourself clean!

• Storage of toiletry essentials.
• Easy accessibility of essentials to freshen up.
• Size of your luggage/backpack.
• The size of the kit depends on the number of items you carry.
• Number of compartments: depends on your organization preferences.
• Durability and ease of cleaning.
• Suitable for both short and long trips
• Has a hook and can be hanged from a towel rack
• Its translucence allows for smooth security checks
• The hook could be slightly bigger

Luggage is one of the most essential items you will need for travel, whether you are taking a short trip or embarking on a long journey. There are many different types of luggage to choose from, but we recommend investing in a quality piece that will last for years. A good piece of luggage should be sturdy and well-made, with plenty of compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized.

• Store all your clothes, footwear, and other items.
• Protect valuables.
• Duration of trip.
• Number of things you will carry.
• Airline restrictions on weight.
• Compactness and portability.
• Compact and lightweight
• The design may fade with use

14 Laundry Bags

We always recommend laundry bags as a travel essential, and for good reason! Not only do they make it easy to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean clothes, but they also help to protect your clothes from wrinkles and damage. Plus, if you're traveling with a group, laundry bags can help to keep everyone's belongings organized. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or a long vacation, be sure to pack a few laundry bags in your suitcase. Trust us, you'll be glad you did!

• Segregate clean and dirty clothes.
• Wash sensitive clothes to avoid damage.
• Size: based on the number of travellers.
• Style: backpack, cross-body, or handle.
• Closure: types of closures and your personal preference.
• Easy to fold
• Slightly expensive
• Can break if overloaded

15 Packing Cubes

If you're sick of your clothes getting all wrinkled and crammed in your suitcase, then you need to start using packing cubes. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags that come in a variety of sizes. They make it easier to find things when you're on the go. If you're planning a trip, packing cubes are a must to keep your belongings organized and sorted. Trust us, they'll make your life a lot easier!

• Organize your clothes, toiletries, and other items.
• Save space in your luggage.
• Flexibility.
• Compactness.
• Lightweight
• Good organization
• Could be more spacious

16 Cable Organizer

We can attest to the importance of having a good cable organizer. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to untangle a nest of cords and chargers when you're in a hurry to catch your flight. A good cable organizer will keep all of your cords neatly organized and readily accessible. It's also a good idea to choose an organizer with multiple compartments, so you can easily keep track of which cord goes with which device.

17 In-flight pouch

No more rummaging through your bag for a set of headphones or a book; everything you need is right at your fingertips. Additionally, an in flight pouch ensures that you have easy access to everything you need during the flight. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to be as comfortable as possible when they're stuck in a cramped seat for hours on end? So if you're looking for ways to up your travel game, an in-flight pouch is a great place to start.

• Number of compartments/organization.
• Ample pockets
• TSA approved
• The material could be more sturdy

18 Travel Wallet

As anyone who has ever gone on a trip knows, there are a lot of things to keep track of - plane tickets, hotel reservations, rental car information, and so on. And if you're carrying all of this around in your purse or pockets, it can be a real pain. That's why we recommend a travel wallet as a travel essential. A travel wallet is designed to hold all of your important travel documents in one place, so you can easily find what you need when you need it. It's also much more secure than carrying everything loose in your bag since it has zippered compartments and may even have a strap that goes around your neck or wrist.

• Safety: RFID protection to prevent unwanted trouble with your cards.
• Number of documents/cards you’re carrying.
• RFID protection

19 Travel Pill Organizer

When you're packing for a trip, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you have all your medications. That's where travel pill organizers come in. Not only do they help to keep your pills sorted and easy to find, but they also prevent them from spilling or getting lost in your bag. Whether you're taking prescription drugs or over-the-counter medication, a travel pill organizer is a convenient way to keep everything organized and within reach.

• Keep your medication organized and secure.
• Easy access to medication.
• Amount of medication to be carried.
• Moisture-proof
• Can be hard to open at times

Accessories for travel with children

• Swaddle blankets
• Portable strollers
• Miniature food containers
• Sleep pillow
• Toddler basket/bed
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Change of clothes in case of accidents/spillage
• Travel games such as Pocket Pictionary, Monopoly Deal, Uno, Ludo, Scrabble, etc.

Sathvik Srinath

Sathvik's love for travel is only matched by his love for football. Born and brought up in the city of Bengaluru, he's been lucky enough to be in a city that's become a melting pot of culture over time. He dreams of living in Norway one day and can't wait to see the world!

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17 road trip essential packing list items for adults and kids.

Hit the road, Jack.

Well actually, no matter your name, the time to take a road trip is now, and we’re here to help you get ready to go.

Since flying during the pandemic still makes many wary, the best alternative is getting in the car and heading out. Another added perk of road tripping in an RV or camper is that you can also avoid the sky-high hotel and vacation rental prices and spend your savings on having an amazing time seeing our beautiful country.

From finding a vehicle big enough to take you and your family across the country safely and making sure you have the right navigation to having enough food, drinks and necessities to sustain you on the road , road tripping is no small feat.

Below, find a road map to help you plan your next four-wheel getaway, with recommendations to help you avoid any detours along the way.

The ultimate way to road trip is in an RV, as your bed, kitchen and living area can travel the country with you and saves money on pricey hotels.

Browse for the perfect RV on RVShare, with options for how you want to travel. Choose between two different towables or go all-in with either a Class A or a Class C motorhome, no truck or trailer required. RVShare has pickups and drop-offs all over the country, so planning your roadie adventure just got that much easier.

Trip Advisor

Trip Advisor is a one-stop shop for all your travel needs, from tickets to your car rental.

Head over to the car rental tab of the site and then browse available rides in more than 60,000 locations worldwide. Choose to look by destination to help you plan a trip from scratch, or look up your nearest airport or city to see what vehicles they have to offer you and your crew. Then, if your road trip includes the need for hotels or sightseeing , Trip Advisor can help with booking those, too.

Best Buy GPS Systems for Traveling

Two roads diverged in an interstate — and you should choose the one best traveled on.

While we trust you may be an expert navigator, having some backup on a long trip is a good idea. Best Buy agrees, which is why they have an entire page of customer-reviewed GPS systems designed for traveling. Prices start at as little as $99 and many can be quickly mounted to your car or RV’s dashboard for a seamless journey from point A to point B.

Lifeline AAA Premium 42 Piece Emergency Car Kit , $25.59

Safety first.

Whenever you get in the car, it’s a good idea to be prepared for anything. Add a few thousand miles onto that and you definitely need an emergency car kit, just in case. Sold on Amazon, AAA sells a 42-piece kit that has everything from jumper cables and a flashlight to a first aid kit and a poncho.

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow , $60

Traveling long distances can really be a pain in the neck.

Alleviate that ache with Ostrichpillow and their Go Neck pillow designed for just this problem. The pillow wraps around any sized neck and provides comfort for the driver when sitting alert at the wheel all day, as well as for the passengers who can now easily lean over and take a nap without straining or waking up with that horrible post-car-sleep stiffness.

Sleep Number Lumbar Pillow , $24.99

For back to work or getting back on the road, keeping your spine in good health is a must.

The Lumbar Pillow from Sleep Number isn’t just for your bed. Take the memory foam support on the road with you, helping to keep your posture perfect and back comfortable, even when at the wheel for long periods of time.

Quick Charge USB Cars Charger , $25.99

When traveling with multiple people or just multiple devices, make sure you all are fully charged up and ready to go.

This USB charger from Amazon has six ports to keep iPhones, Androids, gaming consoles and your GPS all juiced up for the duration of your trip, without having to untangle cords or fight over outlets.

Backseat Car Organizer with Touchable Tablet Holder , $23.95

Happy kids in the backseat make for happy drivers and an overall great road trip.

Keep the backseat organized and fully stocked with the kid’s favorite things like snacks, water bottles, toys and more with the set of two over-the-seat organizers from Amazon. The middle section can hold tissues or wipes for messy hands, while the top part of each organizer is perfect for a tablet or small screen, complete with a plastic touch-enabled screen protector.

KonMari Essential Oil Diffuser for the Car , $29

Nothing brings more joy than a fresh-smelling car.

From Marie Kondo’s line of life-enhancing products, this essential oil diffuser for the car is sure to spark joy for those who travel. Simply plug the device into the cigarette lighter port in your car, add a few drops of oil and let the calming scent waft through your car, making for the most zen or road trips.

Herschel Insulated Alexander Zip Tote , $89.99

Keep road trip snacks and drinks cold and wet swimsuits off the car’s seats with the waterproof and insulated tote from Herschel.

The tote can hold 32 liters of gear, sodas, or anything else you need to chill on the way to your destination, with zipper closure to prevent spills on the journey. Better yet, once poolside, the bag is also waterproof and a great place to store used suits and towels when loading back into the car.

Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth w/ Straw Lid , $54.95

Keep the whole car hydrated and mess-free with these bottles from Hydro Flask.

For the adults on the trip, check out the large 40-ounce bottle, with a straw lid for easy sipping while driving. For the kiddos in the backseat, grab a few of the smaller 12-ounce bottles for just $29.95, which also come with a spill-proof straw lid and a rubber bottom to help little hands hold on tight.

Kind Snacks Cube , $37.33

Be kind to your body and remember to fuel up while on the road.

Kind Bar has a new online-only package that is perfect for the whole family and easy to pack up when on a road trip. The variety pack comes with 20 bars and includes eight different flavors, from dark chocolate cherry cashew to maple glazed pecan and sea salt and more.

Moonshot Crackers Variety Pack , $18 for three or $36 for six boxes

Whether you’re traveling to the moon or just a few states over, these snacks will help fuel your journey.

These health-conscious crackers from Moonshot are organic, non-GMO and created with the climate in mind, so you can snack guilt-free. The variety pack is perfect for road trips, as it comes with all three flavors to share amongst the car, including Sourdough Sea Salt, Rosemary Garlic and Tomato Basil.

Gatorade Zero Thirst Quencher 4 Flavor Variety Pack , $12.86

Keep the whole crew hydrated on your journey with Gatorade Zero.

Stock up on your favorite flavors and never get bored, as this variety pack has four different flavors to rotate through on your trip. The Gatorade multi-pack includes 24 bottles of Orange, Berry, Glacier Freeze and Glacier Cherry, all of which come in a 12-ounce bottle perfect for kids and adults on the road.

Starbucks ready-made bottled drinks , prices vary

Save time and money on the road by eliminating coffee stops and stocking up on your Starbucks ahead of time.

Head over to the Amazon storefront for everything Starbucks and see what ready-made drinks they have to offer. Start with a Frappuccino for the morning and then transition to one of their Refreshers or energy drinks for the nighttime drives you need an added burst of energy for.

American Road Trip Trivia , $14

Just because school is out for the summer doesn’t mean learning is off the table, too.

Play an educational road trip game while you explore the country with the trivia set from Gentleman’s Hardware. The card game includes 100 trivia questions that span our great 50 states, covering everything from the largest ball of twine to state capitals and more.

Rand McNally Ultimate Backseat Book , $9.99

Keep your tiny backseat drivers occupied with this three-in-one activity book from Amazon.

The Ultimate Backseat Book is full of interactive maps, games and reading to keep your kiddos busy and stimulated as you drive to the next stop on your road trip. The three-in-one combines road trip must-reads including the “Kid’s Road Atlas” to help explain where you are going, “Are We There Yet” for trip tracking and puzzles and “Coast-to-Coast Games” to keep them busy looking out the window or working on brain teasers.

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My Family Flies 15 Hours to India Every Year — Here Are 10 Items That Make the Trip Easier, From $20

From neck pillows to light-blocking eye masks, these travel must-haves start at just $20.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Preparing for a long flight with your family is an adventure in and of itself. It's not just about packing your stuff, but also packing up lots of fun and making memories. As a first-generation immigrant and parent of two kids, flying is more than going on a trip — it is a way to connect with my family and friends who are almost 8,000 miles away in India. Since my children were babies, we’ve made this annual long-haul journey across continents. And while every trip brings forth new challenges, there are tips and tricks I have learned over the years that mitigate some of that anxiety. 

Here are 10 travel accessories that I always bring with me no matter how old my kids get. From noise-canceling Bose headphones that are comfortable for kids’ ears to an adjustable footrest that attaches to your tray table, these items make long flights with my family manageable and comfortable — and you can get them for as little as $20.

Mlvoc Memory Foam Neck Pillow

Travel pillows are one of the most underrated luxuries of any travel, especially on long flights. I didn’t get a travel pillow until my kids were a little older, and once I did, I wondered why I ever traveled without one. My favorite is this memory foam neck pillow , which boasts over 22,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. It’s easy to see why this is a customer favorite: The memory foam contours to your head for long-lasting comfort, and it keeps your neck from falling too far to the side or the front. It comes with a breathable cover, eye mask, earplugs, and carrying case, and since it’s machine washable, you can just pop it into the washer after every trip to get rid of any germs. 

While I love it as a sleep-deprived parent, it’s also a great pick for kids who still take naps or just like to snooze. One Amazon shopper appreciated that this pillow allowed their kids to get some rest “on long car rides to their sports games/tournaments and road trips,” while another owner loved that the packable pillow kept them “comfortable” on long flights to Dubai and Bali with their family.

Thule Compression Packing Cube

Anyone who travels with kids knows that packing light isn’t really possible. When you add extra clothes, toys, snacks, diapers, and everything else that you need to pack for a long-haul trip, your carry-on bag always feels too small. That’s why I love to travel with packing cubes, especially compressive options like these from Thule , which feature a wide, accessible opening and zippers that compress soft goods by eliminating excess air from the bag. 

My favorite part is the frosted fabric that allows me to see what's inside for quick access, which comes in handy when my son spills water on his shirt as soon as the flight takes off or my daughter wants a sweatshirt mid-fight. These packing cubes also fit most carry-on luggage and come in two sizes.

  This Amazon shopper called it a “best-in-class” packing cube and was impressed by its moisture-proof abilities: “When one of my bottles of liquid spilled into my suitcase on a recent trip, my clothes in the Thule packing cubes remained completely clean and dry,” they noted. Plus, the cubes are popular with parents: they “kept my messy kid's luggage so organized,” one happy customer shared .

Bose Noise-canceling Headphones

If there is one thing you want to splurge on for a long flight with kids, it’s high-quality headphones. The Bose Noise-canceling Headphones boast over 26,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, and my kids agree. Both of my kids have a pair, and it’s relaxing for them to listen to an audiobook or music without the distraction of the plane’s ambient noise. Plus, it gives me some personal time while they’re busy listening to their devices.

The padded band and soft ear cups are comfortable for long flights, and they don’t apply much pressure against your head so you can wear them for hours without your head feeling heavy. They also just work so much better than the generic plastic headsets the flight attendants hand out. The noise-canceling abilities are particularly impressive, owners note: “With 10 levels I can block out most of what is going on around me, when it is safe to do so,” said one shopper , so there’s no more listening to your neighbor’s loud conversation.

Wet Ones Sensitive Skin Hand Wipes

When I’m traveling with my kids, one of my top priorities is keeping everyone clean and healthy. These Wet Ones hand wipes come in thin TSA-approved packets, so they’re easy to toss into my carry-on so I can wipe down our seats before a long flight. Plus, they’re great for sticky hands after snacktime — or meals on our trips to India — and the 20-count packets have a tight seal to keep the wipes moist.

They’re also hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and safe for sensitive skin, which is important to me as a mom. Other parents agree: The multi-purpose wipes are great “for hand wiping, spills, messy clothes, mud off of shoes, dusting, or in a pinch without a clean restroom, etc.” shared one shopper who took a six-week family road trip, while one customer with eczema called the alcohol-free wipes “a lifesaver.”

BrüMate ReHydration Insulated Water Bottle

Staying hydrated on flights is very important for a variety of reasons. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, dry skin, and constipation, so the Aerospace Medical Association recommends about 8 ounces of water for every hour you’re on a flight. For long flights, this adds up to a lot of water that would quickly become room temperature in a plastic bottle. With a 25-ounce capacity, this BrüMate ReHydration Insulated Water Bottle keeps lots of water cold for several hours, and the straw is particularly handy for spill-prone kids. 

As a mom, I appreciate that this bottle is leakproof—no one wants to sit in a wet soggy seat for 15 hours (I may or may not be speaking from experience). It comes in several fun colors, so every member of the family can choose their own.

Travelers Club 5-piece Kids’ Luggage Set

Kids’ luggage helps get little ones excited about an upcoming trip while also teaching them responsibility and independence. This five-piece set includes a roller suitcase, backpack, lunch bag, neck pillow, and luggage tag, which are available in several fun patterns, like dogs, butterflies, and donuts. The 18-inch carry-on roller has a telescoping handle and fits into the overhead compartment.

One shopper , who bought this for their 4-year-old grandson, shared that “he was so excited to be pulling his own luggage through the airport” while another happy customer appreciated that “The inline wheels on the larger suitcase glide smoothly, allowing my kids to roll their luggage effortlessly without any assistance.” Note that this set is not recommended for kids who are 3 years old and under. 

Everlasting Comfort Airplane Footrest

Achieve business-class comfort without business-class prices with this hammock-style footrest. The memory foam airplane footrest is installed over your tray table so you can elevate your feet and stretch them out. After listening to my kids’ constant fighting over who gets to use it on our travels, I finally caved and bought one for each of us. 

The straps are adjustable, so they work for little legs and adults, and the whole thing rolls neatly into a travel pouch when not in use. One shopper who took the footrest on an overseas flight shared that “I was able to sleep a little better because my feet were supported.”

Manta Sleep Mask

A sleep mask is a must if you want to get quality shuteye on long-haul flights. It not only blocks the cabin’s overhead lights but also the reading light from your seat neighbor. An Amazon favorite with nearly 10,000 five-star ratings, the Manta Sleep Mask blocks out light without causing uncomfortable eye pressure thanks to its carved-out C-shaped eye cups. Since it’s adjustable, it can fit kids and adults alike, and it comes with a case and wash bag. (It’s also fully machine washable.)

One Amazon shopper called it a “100 out of 10 must buy,” reporting that it blocks all light, allowing them to sleep “in bright rooms and even while napping outside in my swing under the full sun.” The whole family will enjoy it too: One owner shared that their youngest kid “fights” them for the mask since they love it so much.

Goal Zero Venture 35 Portable Charger

How many times have you sat down on your airplane seat only to realize that your charging port doesn’t work? When you’re traveling with kids who want to spend hours and hours watching in-flight entertainment, you’d better hope their devices; batteries last. My flights home to India average 15 hours, so no matter how much charge I have on my tablet and phone, it is not going to last the whole way. That’s why I always travel with an external power supply like the Goal Zero Venture 35 Portable Charger Power Bank , which has two USB ports and one USB-C port so it’s compatible with all kinds of devices. The power bank also includes an integrated 50-lumen flashlight — perfect for getting up and stretching your legs mid-flight when the lights are all off.

With an impressive five volts of power, you can charge the whole family’s devices at once. One pleased customer shared that their family “Charged two Nintendo switches, two tablets, and our two phones the entire weekend and the Goal Zero was still at 75 percent by the end. Happy kids and happy parents!”

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Hydrating Mask

It’s no secret that overseas travel is exhausting, especially with kids. Parents deserve some self-care while navigating family trips, and I highly recommend the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Hydrating Mask , which keeps my skin moisturized and dewy despite the dry air onboard. 

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At the time of publishing, prices were as reflected in the article.

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City of Asheville Hurricane Helene information and updates

Find recovery resources here.

Updates by local radio

Public officials are holding news briefings each day at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The briefings are streamed live on the Buncombe County Facebook Page and have also been broadcast on Blue Ridge Public Radio 88.1 FM. You can also listen them on the iHeart radio stations including 99.9, 104.3, 105.1 and 570 AM.

9/29 at 8:32 p.m.

Information about the dam at Bee Tree

The City of Asheville would like to share information with the public about the dam at Bee Tree. The dam at Bee Tree is functioning as it was engineered. Water is coming through the spillway as is the appropriate function. Water resources completed multiple fly over visual inspections today for situational awareness. Water Resources staff continue to work around the clock to respond to the emergency.

9/29 at 6:32 p.m.

Cellular Service In light of minimal ability for cellular service, the City of Asheville is partnering with Verizon to deliver a temporary cellular satellite trailer to the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Street. This tower w ill offer an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. The tower is operational as of late Sunday afternoon, September 29.

Additionally, T-mobile is bringing SatCOLT (satellite cell on light trucks) to Asheville. These SatCOLTs provide cellular voice and data, along with Wi-Fi (allowing people to use Wi-Fi calling no matter their carrier). More information here: https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/hurricane-helene

City offices closed City of Asheville offices will be closed on Monday, September 30.

Trash and Recycling Service There will be no trash and recycling service in the City of Asheville on Monday, September 30.

Traffic Safety Public safety officials are discouraging travel. In the event that you must be on the road, please treat inactive traffic lights as four-way stops.

9/29 at 3:32 p.m

Cellular satellite trailer will provide limited service downtown

In light of minimal ability for cellular service, the City of Asheville is partnering with Verizon to deliver a temporary cellular satellite trailer to the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Place. This tower w ill offer an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. The tower will be operational late Sunday afternoon, September 29.

9/29 at 11:15 a.m.

Please conserve fuel and stay off roads. This will allow emergency response vehicles the quickest access to do their jobs.

Water and food have been ordered and will be coming into the area. Distribution sites will be identified when supplies are on site.

Tropical Storm Helene severely damaged the production and distribution system of the City of Asheville’s water system. Extensive repairs are required to treatment facilities, underground and aboveground water pipes, and to roads that have washed away which are preventing water personnel from accessing parts of the system. Although providing a precise timeline is impossible, it is important to note that restoring service to the full system could potentially take weeks.

A curfew is still in effect from 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. within the Asheville City Limits.

9/28 at 9:14 a.m.

Water Service update, Transit Service suspended

The water consumers of City of Asheville Water Resources Department, in Buncombe County are experiencing periods of low pressure and outages in the distribution system due to weather conditions generated by Tropical Storm Helene. Periods of low or no pressure in the distribution system increases the potential for back siphonage and introduction of bacteria into the water system. There is the potential for temporary loss of water service.

Therefore, when water service is restored consumers who have electric power are advised to boil all water used for human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above.

Vigorous boiling for one (1) minute should kill any disease-causing organisms that may be present in the water.  This advisory remains in effect until further written notification is issued.

Water customers who currently have water are encouraged to fill bathtubs in preparedness for loss of water.  

ART System Alert Update: 9/28/24

UPDATE:  In order to best support the current state of emergency ART services are suspended until further notice. The service continues to face local power outages, road conditions, and staffing shortages.  

Instead of regular route services, ART buses have been redirected to support relief efforts. ART was able to successfully transport over 578 individuals in need to shelters.

ART will communicate a roll-out plan to resume service when more information is available. We appreciate your patience and understanding and apologize for any inconvenience.

Stay up to date on any service changes that may affect your travel plans by checking the Service Alerts page . To get notices via text or email about changes, sign up for iRide email alert s , or text “NextART” to 41411.

9/27 at 9:11 p.m.

Update on local restoration efforts

Emergency crews are out navigating hazardous conditions as they assess damage in impacted communities. Due to the severity of destruction experienced and ongoing flooding challenges we expect an extended restoration effort. 

Water Utility

Weather conditions have resulted in at least one significant water line break. As a result, customers in parts of the system are experiencing reduced or no water pressure. Because large portions of the city are still underwater and many roads remain closed, Water Resources’ ability to assess the system is extremely limited. As a result you may experience low pressure or no water.  If you have water, but do not have the ability to boil it because of lack of electricity, please rely on bottled water for consumption.

While crews have been able to travel in areas that are passable, the problem area, or areas, still have not been identified. 

Like other utilities affected by Helene, fully restoring service to the water system will take some time and we greatly appreciate your patience while we dedicate every available resource to the effort.

Community Partners

The City of Asheville also encourages community members to monitor other government or service provider websites and social media for their latest information as well.

Buncombe County has established a NON-Emergency line for community reports of things such as downed trees and debris: 828-250-6650 . 

Please call 9-1-1 for life threatening situations including down power lines.

• National Weather Service
• NCDOT Twitter: NCDOT_Asheville for local information or @NCDOT for regional/ statewide information
• Duke Energy
• Code Purple will be active Thursday and Friday.

Know your information sources

Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates:

City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts.

9/27 at 5:56 p.m.

Parks Update

All parks and community centers will remain closed through Sunday, September 29.

9/27 at 5:50 p.m.

Curfew in effect

A curfew will be in effect within the city limits of Asheville from 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. beginning tonight, Friday, September 27. The curfew is to ensure the public’s safety and will be in effect until further notice.  We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to keep our community safe. 

9/27 at 2:24 p.m.

City of Asheville Emergency Responders continue critical emergency response

City of Asheville emergency responders and staff from each department continue life saving efforts in response to Tropical Storm Helene.

Crews continue to work throughout the community around the clock, responding to calls for assistance including swift water rescues, evacuations, transportation to shelters, and downed trees on powerlines, houses and roads. Asheville Fire Department has upscaled their operations with up to 200 firefighters filling emergency response roles.

The FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the North Carolina National Guard are in town to assist our rescue efforts. A FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team is in Asheville with 82 personnel and 19 vehicles including buses, tractor trailers, box trucks, tow vehicles and rescue boats. The National Guard team is assisting efforts by providing a team of 8 personnel and high profile vehicles that can navigate through flooded waters. 

Even though it may appear that the storm has passed, we want the community to understand that the devastating after effects of Helene including rising rivers, downed powerlines and power outages, flooded roads, and damaged homes will affect our community for days to come. The City of Asheville is dedicated to using all resources possible to continue to serve our community, businesses and visitors.

For non-emergency situations, please call 828-250-6650. For life threatening situations, always call 911.

9/27 at 12:33 p.m.

Boil Water Advisory

All customers are currently advised to boil water (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those customers without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above.

Vigorous boiling for one (1) minute should kill any disease-causing organisms that may be present in the water.     

Water customers are strongly urged to conserve water whenever possible.  This advisory remains in effect until further written notification is issued.

9/27 at 11:14 a.m.

ART Service Update

Due to changing weather conditions and flooding, regular ART service will not resume today, 9/27. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Tomorrow, 9/28: Dependent on road conditions, service is scheduled to resume at 10:00 AM. Staff will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if there are any changes.

Stay up to date on any service changes that may affect your travel plans by checking the Service Alerts page . To get notices via text or email about changes, sign up for iRide email alerts , or text “NextART” to 41411.

9/27 at 10 a.m.

Art service to resume.

ART Services are scheduled to resume at 2:00 PM today, 9/27. Service levels will be dependent on weather and road conditions. We will provide updates if the circumstances change.

9/27 at 7:12 a.m.

City Offices closed on September 27

All City of Asheville offices will be closed on Friday, September 27. Online services including water bill pay and permit applications remain available. Emergency services and storm response remain operational.

Reminder – ART Transit services will begin at 2 p.m. today.

9/27 at 6:22 a.m.

Mandatory evacuation of the swannanoa river valley area is in place.

Due to the catastrophic rain in the area, the North Fork Reservoir auxiliary spillway has been activated. The dam is performing as designed, and the volume of water flowing downstream will increase as the storm intensifies.  Due to the high risk, a MANDATORY EVACUATION of the Swannanoa River Valley area is in place.  All residents within the designated area downstream of the reservoir are required to move to higher ground.  If you need assistance to evacuate, please call 911.

Shelter is available at Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville (87 Haywood St, Asheville, NC 28801) Explore Asheville has worked with local hotels to make rooms available for residents who are seeking shelter from the storm. Those rates are available here .

Flash Flood Warning

Emergency alert

The National Weather Service has turned a FLASH FLOOD WARNING into effect for the Asheville area until 8:15 a.m. This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding or under evacuation order.

9/26 at 9:45 p.m.

9/26 at 8:30 p.m..

ART SERVICE UPDATE

For tomorrow, 9/27 – Due to potentially dangerous and unknown weather conditions, ART services will begin at 2:00 PM.  This delay is also to ensure that all routes are clear and there are sufficient drivers available for operations. We will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates if circumstances change.

9/26 at 2:30 p.m.

Asheville Rapid Transit

With the possibility of an extended boil water advisory or water outage due to severe weather from a tropical storm, City of Asheville Water Resources Department customers should include in their preparations these steps:

• Keep several gallon jugs of potable water for drinking, cooking, preparing bottles, brushing teeth and sponge baths. Keep enough for the entire family to have water for 24 to 72 hours. A good rule of thumb is to have one gallon of water for each person or pet in the household for each day you are out of water service.
• Keep several gallons of non-potable water for flushing toilets. It is advised to remember that toilets do not have to be flushed every time they are used to help conserve your water supply. The easiest ways to flush your toilet is to fill the tank with water and then flush as normal or pour water directly into the bowl until the pressure forces it to flush.
• Under any circumstances (emergency or non emergency) it is best to not flush any foreign objects other than toilet paper. Sanitary products such as wipes and feminine products should be placed in the trash. If disposed of in the toilet, it will take more water to flush the toilet and significantly increase the likelihood of clogged plumbing. 

During an extended outage in the water system, emergency responders will work to ensure potable water is available to customers. However, having an emergency preparedness plan will help you and your family be ready for an unexpected event.  

If your area is going to be affected by no water service or low water pressure during a tropical storm, an AVL Alert is the fastest and most direct way to be notified. If you are not signed up to receive AVL Alerts, please click here to do so. 

9/26 at 11:00 a.m.

Trash, recycling, and brush collection information.

Stormwater staff will  be using AVL Alerts to alert community members of issues in their more immediate area. So please make sure to sign up for AVL Alerts

Traffic / Road Closures

We are advising community members to monitor the WAZE app for real time closure and hazard information. Additionally Drive NC.gov 

The County has established a NON-Emergency line for community reports : 828-250-6650. This for things like downed trees, debris, power line concerns. Please c all 9-1-1 for life threatening situations

9/26 at 9:00 a.m. 

Additional asheville rapid transit (art) impacts, events/ facilities impacts.

• The WNC Nature Center will be closed Thursday and Friday.

Meetings / Commissions Cancellations

• All City of Asheville Board and Commission meetings Thursday and Friday are canceled.

9/25  at 8:30 p.m.

Heavy rains from Helene impact Asheville Rapid Transit (ART) routes and Parks and Recreation facility openings

Due to a road closure on Lodge St, detours are in place for ART Routes S1 & S5. 

Bus stops  along Lodge St, Sweeten Creek Rd., and London Rd., will be missed until further notice.

This includes: 170, 610, 611, 612, 613, 614, 615, 616 , 642, 643, 644, 645, 646, 647, 648, 649,  and 650

All Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) parks, community centers, and facilities are closed on Thursday, September 26 and Friday, September 27 due to inclement weather. Previously scheduled activities, events, programs, and rentals are canceled during this time.

We will continue to monitor weather conditions and announce any schedule changes as they become available. Visit this page for a list of APR locations.

9/25 at 4:10 p.m.

The City of Asheville will experience heavy rainfall and strong winds beginning tomorrow as a result of Hurricane Helene.

Staff from across the City are already hard at work preparing Asheville to weather the rain and wind forecasted to come our way. 

Asheville Fire is proactively preparing for major weather impacts by activating specialty teams to include boat teams, saw teams, team leaders, safety officers, battalion and division chiefs for the duration of the weather event. This will allow Asheville Fire to continue to provide excellent service to the community while these personnel will respond to storm related emergencies. 

Stormwater crews have been inspecting construction sites for on-going stormwater projects,  clearing debris from flood prone areas, testing equipment in preparation of restoration efforts, and clearing storm drain grates. 

City of Asheville staff across strategic departments will be on call and available to respond throughout the storm. Staff are meeting to coordinate preparation and response throughout this weather event to adjust plans as needed. 

The National Weather Service  forecasts 10 to 15 inches of rain are expected to accumulate in the Asheville area with potential for flash or localized flooding. You can follow updates at The National Weather Service website .

Tips to Prepare

• Be Prepared.   Develop an emergency plan and create an emergency kit .  Visit NCReady for additional information. Inform yourself about floods.
• Keep a supply of fresh water and non-perishable food on hand.
• Fuel your vehicles. 
• Clean out storm drains near your home or business, removing any debris.
• Create an inventory of your personal property and its approximate value. Save receipts from expensive items.
• Have a battery-operated flashlight.
• Have a battery-operated radio, TV, or internet access that does not rely on electricity.
• Do not approach downed power lines. Report a down power line here. 
• Sign up for AVL Alerts .

Driving Tips: Turn Around, Don’t Drown

Due to the potential of fast moving storm waters or flash flooding, the City of Asheville advises community members to use caution on the roads. If possible, travel when only necessary.  If you must travel, the City will be updating on the AVL Alert system and updating maps on Waze to provide updated road information.  As always, when there’s the potential of high water on the road, the phrase to keep in mind is: Turn Around, Don’t Drown

Where to follow for information

Asheville Fire Department

During storm-related emergencies, the City of Asheville’s Fire Department is the lead agency to coordinate and manage the action plan and operations during the incident. As always, Dial 9-1-1 for emergencies.

City of Asheville

You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts.

The Waze App   will be a source of information on road closures and hazards.

Impacted Services or Events  

As our community prepares for a weekend of wind and rain, it’s important to note some scheduled services, activities and events have been or have the potential to be impacted.

Parks &  Recreation

• Amboy Riverfront Park
• Azalea Park
• Azalea Dog Park
• Carrier Park
• Craven Street Bridge Boat Access Area
• French Broad River Park
• French Broad River Dog Park
• Jean Webb Park
• Pearson Bridge River Access Area
• Recreation Park
• Riverbend Park

Sanitation 

• City of Asheville waste collection will run as scheduled. If any trash or recycling is missed Thursday due to weather-related issues, it will be collected Monday. Normal brush collection routes may be delayed in order to assist with emergency operations.

ART services 

• There are no disruptions to Transit schedules at this time. Any delays or route changes will be communicated and noticed through iRide and Transit app
• The Block Party Career Fair scheduled for September 26 has been canceled.
• Aston Park Tennis Center and the Municipal Golf  Course are open until weather dictates a closure, and will reopen as possible. Please call the clubhouses in advance to check the status.
• AFD Fire Prevention Kick off event scheduled at the outlets on September 28 has been canceled.

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Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene

Due to forecasted path of Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene travel may be impacted to/from/through the destination(s) listed below. Check flight status frequently for up-to-the-minute information about your flight plans, or get updates sent directly to your mobile device or by email with  One-Time Notification.  

In-page Links

• Atlanta , Go to footer note
• Southeast U.S., Caribbean and Mexico , Go to footer note

Affected City: Atlanta

Future travel rebooking options:.

• A fare difference may apply when the waiver is class to class restrictive and the original booking class is not maintained in the rebooked itinerary.
• When rebooked travel occurs after October 01, 2024, a difference in fare may apply.
• If travel is not able to be rescheduled within these guidelines, customers may cancel their reservation and apply any unused value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket for a period of one year from the original ticket issuance.  Applicable fare difference may apply for new travel dates. Final travel must be completed by end of ticket validity.

Conditions and Restrictions

Eligibility only for customers with an Original Ticket Issue Date on or before September 25, 2024. Changes to origins and destinations may increase fares. Any difference in fare between your original ticket and the new ticket will be collected at the time of booking.

Affected Cities: Southeast U.S., Caribbean and Mexico

• When rebooked travel occurs after October 04, 2024, a difference in fare may apply.

Eligibility only for customers with an Original Ticket Issue Date on or before September 26, 2024. Changes to origins and destinations may increase fares. Any difference in fare between your original ticket and the new ticket will be collected at the time of booking.

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