packing list for travel 1 week

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1-Week Packing List for a Carry-on: Travel Lighter Today

Traveling with carry-on luggage only. Some love it. Some claim it can’t be done. Use this 1-week packing list for a carry-on and you’ll have everything you need to pack light every time.

I’m convinced that traveling carry-on-only is the best way to travel. But packing is not an exact science and a lot will come down to personal preference and travel style. I personally think it’s also a good option for a business trip or any other shorter trip.

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top view of a carry-on bag packed for a week

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Organize your travel light packing list

Packing light requires discipline and organization, but it’s worth it. To keep yourself as organized as possible, break down your week-long trip packing list into four sections:

What you’re going to wear on the plane
Your personal item (small travel backpack, etc.) that goes under your seat
What’s going in your carry-on bag
Liquids bag (which must follow the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines )

Packing toiletries and liquids for carry-on-only travel is not a small topic.

Make sure you read my complete guide to packing toiletries for a carry-on bag for more information and a detailed packing list.

What to pack for a week-long trip: travel packing checklist

What to wear on the plane.

To save yourself as much space and weight in your carry-on as possible, plan to wear your heaviest and bulkiest clothing on your flight . For example, I like to dress in layers since sometimes on planes I get quite cold and sometimes I get too hot. The same goes for me at airports.

So, for me it works out great to wear as much of my packing weight as I can in layers I can easily remove or put back on as needed to keep myself comfortable when I fly .

I usually wear the only pair of jeans that I take on my trip (jeans are heavy!), my heaviest shoes, a short-sleeved T-shirt, a cardigan (again, heavy!) and the warmest (and heaviest) jacket I will need on my trip.

Traveling to a cold-weather destination can complicate packing a bit. But even then, I would absolutely wear my heaviest shoes and coat on the plane.

This is my flight “uniform”

Dark, comfortable jeans
Black short sleeve T-shirt
Grey cardigan
Comfortable shoes

These are my favorite slip-ons for travel . If I’m planning hiking or other outdoor activities, I’ll wear my heavy shoes so they’re not taking up weight in my carry-on bag. I love these waterproof hiking shoes .

What to pack in your personal item

This can vary by trip, but I frequently travel with my anti-theft crossbody purse inside a larger bag ( like this basic backpack ) that still complies with the airline’s personal item regulations and fits easily under the seat in front of me.

✅ This is my favorite anti-theft crossbody travel purse . I never travel without it!

Some airlines’ carry-on weight limits include the personal item. When that happens, I take my crossbody only as my personal item and bring the backpack empty in my carry-on suitcase (to use as a day pack) or leave it at home.

Electronics

Portable charger —pack a small portable charger like this one to make sure your phone never dies.
Tablet with charger —a tablet is great to bring along for reading e-books, watching movies, etc.
Headphones or earbuds —good quality earbuds take up little space. They’re great to have on the plane, and then you can use them for audio tours on your trip as well.
Phone —Don’t forget your phone! If you have a phone with a good quality camera, like this one , you won‘t need to pack a separate (potentially heavy and bulky) camera.
Outlet adapter —make sure you know what kinds of plugs they have at your destination. Outlet adapters like this one make it easy to plug your electronics into whatever kind of plug you’ll likely encounter.

BUT even if you have one of these , you’ll still want to check to make sure you can use it at your destination. Don’t assume.

Comfort

Sleep mask —essential for me for red eye or overnight flights. I carry an old one from a business-class amenities kit. Or you can buy one like this .
Snacks for the plane —pack yourself some healthy snacks in case you don’t have time to stop at the airport or service on your flight is delayed/disrupted.
Water bottle —keeping hydrated when you fly is essential. You’ll feel so much better when you arrive at your destination if you make a point of keeping hydrated while you travel.

These and these always find their way into our carry-ons when we travel.

Wet wipes — these are great for many uses (including those times when your find yourself in a bathroom with no toilet paper—it happens). Don’t travel without them.
Travel packs of tissues make good additions to your bag.

Miscellaneous essential personal items

Don’t forget to triple check that you have your wallet, credit cards, passport (if applicable), and photocopies of your driver’s license, medical cards, passport…any important IDs or documents.

You’ll also want directions to your accommodations with check-in instructions (if needed). And I like to always travel with a pen and pencil.

Travel light packing list for your carry-on suitcase

Make sure your carry-on bag is not larger than the maximum dimensions your airline allows. They do vary, so please check ahead of time . And don’t forget to weigh your bag if your airline has a weight limit for carry-on luggage.

Below is what I recommend packing for a one-week trip. Use this as a starting point and adjust for longer trips, seasons, or the activities you’ll be doing.

This list also presupposes that you’ll be at least handwashing a few personal items if not doing a load in a washing machine. If you’re going to hand wash look for fabrics that dry quickly and don’t need ironing.

Clothing

2 pairs of comfortable pants. Black is easy to dress up for a night out.
Spare pair of shoes or sandals. (I try to avoid packing multiple pairs of shoes when I can.)
Lightweight outer layer like a packable rain jacket
Long sleeve button up shirt or blouse
Long sleeve T-shirt or summer weight sweater (merino wool is great)
Short sleeve T-shirt
Short-sleeve wool or cashmere sweater
3 camisoles/tank tops
2 sets of lightweight pajamas/sleep shirts
5 pairs of underpants
5 pairs of footie socks
2 bras
Optional: 1 dress that works for both sightseeing and a dinner out.

Everything else

Guidebook (s) —if you prefer paper books; otherwise you can save space and weight by using e-books on your phone or tablet. These are my favorite guidebooks for Europe. These are my favorite for everywhere else.
Non-liquid toiletries/makeup bag (see separate list below)
Liquids bag (see separate list below)
More wet wipes
Extra outlet adapters
Spare tablet and/or phone charging cables
Luggage scale —if traveling on an airline with a weight limit for carry-on baggage. This one weighs only 2 ounces , so it won’t add much to your overall weight.
Bag(s) —to keep dirty shoes or clothes separate from any clean clothing on the trip home. This could be simple lightweight laundry bags or even just plastic shopping bags.
A few plastic storage bags of various sizes (just in case)
Printed copies of any needed documents such as tickets for sites or attractions, extra copies of passport and ID, etc.
1 “luxury” item you want to take with you just because. For me, that’s my pillow from home (seriously). For you it might be noise-cancelling headphones or an extra pair of shoes you know you’re only going to wear once. Something like that.

Read More → Travel Essentials for Women

Carry-on toiletries and liquids

Concealer or liquid foundation (to save space in your liquids bag you might consider using a powdered mineral foundation like this one)
Travel size hair care products
Travel size skin care products. Include a day moisturizer with sunscreen.
Toothpaste (I save the sample sizes from my dentist for travel)
Lip gloss
Mascara
Brow gel

Don’t forget that when traveling carry-on only, you’ll need to keep your liquids in a separate, clear, 1-quart bag .

Keep your liquids bag someplace where it’s easy to get to quickly when going through airport security if you don’t have TSA Precheck.

I go low tech here and just use a one-quart plastic bag. They’re cheap and light. End of story.

Make sure you thoroughly read the liquids and prohibited items policies for each and every airline/airport you’ll be flying with for your trip.

Read my full post on how to pack toiletries for carry-on for all my best tips and tricks and a complete packing list.

Other toiletries and makeup

Facial cleansing cloths ( I use these that you add water to activate the cleanser so that I can take exactly what I need instead of an entire package)
Brow pencil
Eyeshadow stick (Sometimes. It depends on my mood.)
Blush
Blush application brush
Eyeliner pencil
Disposable razor
Toothbrush
Dental floss (I save the sample sizes I get from my dentist for travel)
Tweezers
Dietary supplements in zip-close sandwich baggies (count out exactly what you need; don’t take full bottles)
Emery board
Makeup application sponge
Sunscreen stick
Deodorant/antiperspirant
Small bottle of pain relievers
Prescription medications
A small first aid kit with a few basic first-aid items such as band-aids of various sizes and antiseptic wipes.

General tips for packing light

Before we get to the packing list (keep reading!), here are a few tips to help you with packing light and traveling with just a carry-on bag.

When considering what to pack for a week-long trip, generally plan to keep your carry-ons to 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less …fully packed. As a general rule, packing your carry-on bag to 16 pounds will be safe while traveling in Europe. A good quality luggage scale ( like this one ) will help you stay under your weight limit.
Use the lightest bag you can find for your carry-on . Some are surprisingly heavy unpacked, leaving you without much room for your clothing and other items if you have a weight limit for hand luggage.
Always make sure you thoroughly read the carry-on/hand luggage policies of each and every airline on your itinerary, not just the airline you purchased the ticket from.
Most major U.S. airlines do not have a weight limit for carry-on luggage.
Booking accommodations with access to laundry facilities makes packing light a bit easier since you can do laundry partway through your trip .
If you won’t have the opportunity to do laundry, take the extra step of making sure that the clothing you pack all works well together to create a number of outfits .

Final thoughts on packing for a week in a carry-on

Traveling with a carry-on only can be a challenge, but also provides a lot a benefits. You can save money by not checking luggage and you don’t have to worry about your suitcase getting lost or misdirected.

If you follow the basic guidelines in this travel packing list post, you’ll have everything you need to get started with packing light.

What goes on your travel light packing list for a week?

One Comment

I can’t believe that this was really informative. I have been surfing the web desperate to get something to help me out. Thank you for sharing

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Customizable 1 Week Packing List (in a Carry-on)

Post author: Rachel Pedranti
Post published: October 19, 2021
Post category: Travel
Post comments: 2 Comments

Ask and you shall receive. A while back I talked about my packing method in stories on Instagram and mentioned my running packing checklist that I keep in a google doc. I shared my 2 week packing list and it was received so well! Since then I have had some requests for a 1 week packing list.

Here below is a complete 1 week packing list that you can customize for any trip you have coming up.

This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. I only recommend products that I love and would purchase myself! Full disclaimer here .

When I go on a one week trip I do not plan to do laundry and I pack everything into a standard carry-on and a backpack. This 1 week carry on packing list will allow you to do the same, which is a great way to save money on baggage fees and still bring everything you need. The list is easily adjustable for a shorter trip. A good rule of thumb I use is that most things I pack should be able to be worn twice and pants can be worn 3-4 times before they are too dirty.

Kids are a little different because they tend to be more messy. For them I always pack an extra 1-2 outfits (especially shirts).

For trips longer than 2 weeks I would advise trying to find a way to do laundry and add in one extra pair of pants and maybe a couple extra shirts. Laundry is going to be your life saver though.

Ultimate Packing Checklist

Pin it for later.

The pin version above is condensed though. So for the downloadable and customizable checklist you can print out or use on your phone you will want to enter your email below and it will be sent directly to your inbox!

Customizable 1 Week Packing List

Snag your FREE customizable packing list today!!!

2-3 Bottoms
1-2 Dresses
1-2 Swimsuit(s)
7 Underwear
Contact Solution
Hair Accessories
Styling Tools
Conditioner
Shaving Cream
Tampon/Pads
Nail clippers

Electronics

Phone Charger
Computer Charger
Portable Charger
Memory Card
Spare Camera Batteries
Camera Charger
Plug Adapter (international)
Insurance Card
Copies of Passport and Visa
Copy of Children’s Birth Certificate
Country’s Currency
Credit Cards

Miscellaneous

Sun Glasses
Purse/Backpack/Adventure Bag
Microfiber Towel
Small First Aid Kit
Headphone Splitter
Blanket Scarf
Neck Pillow
Earplugs / Eye Mask
Water Bottle (Empty)
Hand Sanitizer
Book/Activities for Plane

This 1 week packing list works for any weather because it only specifies a number of items! All you have to do now is choose what shirts or sweaters you are going to bring that match your chosen destination!

When you are packing for a trip in warmer weather it is a lot easier to pack into a smaller bag. But in the winter the bulky coats and sweaters can make it hard. This is where layers can become very helpful like a thick knit cardigan that works with several different outfits rather than packing several bulky sweaters.

So this universal packing list will work whether you’re taking a summer vacation or a winter one. Plus everything in-between.

Try to check the weather about 10 days out from your departure date for an accurate forecast.

I travel by a set of guidelines that help me know when to pack heavy vs. light that will change the way you pack! Be sure to read those next.

Packing Tips

Plan it out and write it down.

Plan out your outfit by day with specific activities assigned to each day. Then write it all down. Write out exactly which outfit you will wear including socks, jewelry, shows and even underwear.

Wear your bulkiest clothes

To save space in your baggage, wear your bulkiest, heaviest clothes on the plane. If you are hiking, then wear your hiking boots. Dress in layers and wear your jackets or coats, don’t pack them. Jeans are actually a really heavy item, wear your jeans rather than packing them.

Roll don’t Fold

Rolling your clothes is a great way to save space inside your suitcase and even decrease wrinkles.

Mix and Match Items of Same Color Scheme

Create a mini capsule wardrobe for your vacation by packing items in the same color pallet that can be mixed and matched to create several outfits.

Put it back, don’t add more

Set out everything you plan to take with you, then question everything and take out what you can. Pack it all into your suitcase and don’t add things back in “just because there’s space”. Leave that space for things you may have forgotten or for souvenirs you bring home.

Bring a Dryer Sheet

Pack a dryer sheet or two into your suitcase to help keep everything smelling fresh and clean throughout your entire vacation.

Pack Toiletries and Medications the Right Way

Bag everything that is a liquid. There is nothing worse than opening your suitcase to find that something spilled all over your clothes.

Make sure you follow the 3-1-1 rule when traveling by air. This is that all liquids should be 3 .4 oz or less, add up to 1 quart or less and each passenger gets 1 allotment.

Finally I recommend using travel sized toiletry bottles not full size products, even if you are checking a bag. Full size products take up a lot of space, can be very heavy and it is very unlikely that you will use it all on vacation. So save the space and bring only as much as you need by bringing travel sized products or moving products into travel bottles.

The same goes for prescription medications. Organize them into pill boxes to save space and stay organized on vacation.

The last thing I want to touch on is luggage for a one week vacation. I recommend packing everything in a carry-on whenever possible. It is easier to travel around with only a carry on rather than multiple large suitcases. A small suitcase with wheels is my preference but you could also pack in a duffle bag or large backpack.

Packing this way saves you money on baggage fees (normally), time because you don’t have to wait at the carousel and it virtually guarantees that you won’t have to deal with lost luggage which can be a huge headache.

Don’t Forget to Snag Your Packing List

1 week packing list.

I start packing about a week before I leave and yet I always seem to be up late packing the night before! That last minute rush is just asking to forget something. This 1 week packing list is the only one I ever use and it guarantees I won’t forget anything essential for any trips I go on.

When I think I am done packing a quick run through of this list and I catch any last minute additions.

Are there any essentials that you always bring that I don’t have on my list?

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Please send me an email and I will look into it. Don’t forget to check you junk and spam folders as well just in case.

What to Pack for a Week Long Trip – Checklist Included

Packing for a week long trip? Whether you’re headed out on a road trip or on a plane, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed efficiently and haven’t forgotten anything important behind. This checklist of things to bring with you will help you make sure you don’t forget anything before you leave.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase through my links I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more on the disclosure and privacy page.

For clothes I am a huge advocate of having a capsule wardrobe. By that I mean that you want things that are in the same color family or pair well together, that have the ability to be layered and mixed and matched, and that can be versatile for all the different activities you might be participating in while you’re on vacations.

Think through your trip and the activities you have planned. Will you need to dress up? Are you going hiking? Do you plan to get in workouts on the road?

Then check the weather. Will it snow? Rain? Be incredibly sunny? You can check the weather about 10 days out, but you’ll want to check again a few days before your trip to get a better idea of what the weather will be like when you’re there.

Typically a universal packing list looks like this for me:

2 tank tops 3-4 tops 1 dress 2 pairs of pants (one black slack or khaki, one pair of jeans) 1 sweater 1 light jacket/rain jacket 2 bras 7 pairs of underwear 7 pairs of socks

This of course doesn’t count what I wear on the plane or in the car, which is another pair of jeans, t-shirt, hoodie and associated underwear and socks. I dress to be comfortable while I’m traveling, and use it as an opportunity to bring another pair of jeans with me. If you’re a jeans lover like me, this is a good way to save weight and space in your bag while still getting to bring two pairs of jeans.

Again this will depend on any activities that you’ll be participating in. If you plan to go hiking you’ll want to have hiking boots, and if you plan to be somewhere wintery and cold you may want a pair of fleece lined boots. Always wear your heaviest pair the day you fly in order to keep as much space in your bag as possible.

Typically I wear a pair of sneakers or hiking shoes while I’m traveling then I pack a couple of pairs of smaller shoes, usually a flat and a dress shoe or sandal. If I’m really worried about space in my bag, I opt for a dressier pair of flats and skip the dress shoes altogether.

A universal shoe list for a week:

1 pair sneakers or hiking shoes 1 pair of flats 1 dress shoe

I know toiletries can be one most controversial of the “what to pack” bunch.I know lots of people prefer to depend on whatever the hotel will provide, while others with allergies or sensitivities prefer to bring their own. What to pack will vary wildly depending on your personal preferences and needs, as well as (surprise, surprise) what you’ll be doing on your trip. It is a place where you can save weight and space in your bag, though. So for this one I’m just aiming for a very generalized list that you can add on to or subtract from as needed:

Just remember, if you’re flying in a carry-on only you’ll need to make sure your liquids fit the 3-1-1 rule and stay under 3oz. Swapping out shampoo and body soap for bars can help you get around limits if you’re worried, but usually for a week 3oz is plenty! I also opt to pick a soap with a good lather when I travel to avoid having to bring shaving cream with me.

Shampoo Conditioner Body soap Lotion Sunscreen Deodorant Razor Toothpaste Toothbrush Floss Tampons/Pads

Hair & Makeup

This one is another that can get controversial. I know a lot of travel gurus will tell you to skip the makeup and let your hair go natural for your trip to lighten the load of things you need to bring with you. That’s a completely viable option, and one I’ve done myself when I’ve taken a trip where I knew doing my hair and makeup would be useless (spending lots of time outdoors in a humid climate with curly hair – well it’s just not worth it!).

However, you may want to dress up for a night out or spruce up for some of the pictures you’ll be taking on the road. So I’m giving basic set of things to take here, which you can add or detract from as you will. Another reminder though, any liquids like foundations and lipgloss will need to go in your quart-sized bag if you’re flying.

For hair, again it’s up to you. Though many modern hotels have a hairdryer standard. Your straightener can also double as a curling iron if you watch a few youtube videos and get the hang of it.

Makeup Chapstick Foundation Powder Blush Eyeshadow palette Eyeliner Brow product Mascara Makeup Brush Makeup Wipes

Hair Brush Comb Hairdryer Curler Straightener Styling product Hairspray

Medicine & First Aid

This is another important one. If you take prescription medication, it’s recommended that you take the actual bottles and a copy of the prescription with you. I still bring my weekly pill box with me to remind me what I need to take and when as I don’t want to be fumbling every morning I”m on a different time zone trying to remember if I took my pill or not.

I’d also recommend a small supply of things like tums and imodium in case you have a run in with bad food. It’s approximately zero fun to have to try to find a local pharmacy open after hours when you realize the delicious but out-of-the-ordinary food you had for dinner is doing battle with your insides.

Your mini-medical kit can also include things like tweezers, a bandaid or two, neosporin (universally helpful for small burns, bites and cuts), benadryl or another antihistamine (I’ve found it good for air sickness and seasickness in addition to potential pop-up allergies when I’m abroad), ibuprofen or tylenol, and alcohol wipes. You want to keep just enough to get you through a few hours before the pharmacy opens or you can find one, but not so much that it takes up a huge portion of your bag.

Prescriptions Vitamins Weekly pill box Tums and/or Imodium Tweezers Bandaids Neosporin Antihistamine Cold medicine Ibuprofen or tylenol Alcohol wipes Contact solution Kleenex

Electronics

How connected do you want to be on your trip? That’s probably the first question you’ll want to ask before you start thinking about what electronics you want to bring.

If you don’t plan to work on the road for instance, you probably don’t need to bring a laptop. Usually I can get away with bringing a tablet and a small foldable keyboard. It’s enough that I can easily check email, read books on the plane, play a few games while I’m in the airport, and look things up from the hotel before I head out before the day. I find it incredibly useful for saving space in my bag – I can bring all the books, magazines and guidebooks I want in digital form without any of the bulk! If you want to be extremely minimal, you can probably do all of that with your smartphone. Just be sure to bring extra batteries and chargers!

For photography, I’m also including a DSLR camera. I don’t carry it everywhere I go on my trips. My phone in many cases is more than enough for some good snapshots, especially when I’m just out to dinner with friends or family and just want to be able to capture moments as they happen. But if I’m heading to a gorgeous castle or guaranteed some scenic vistas? You better believe I’m taking my DSLR. It’s well worth the space it takes up for the photos I can get out of it. And if you can’t tell, I take a lot of photos which means I typically bring several high capacity SD cards. (Yes, I am that person in the museum taking photos of everything, and I love it!)

Kindle or iPad Foldable keyboard Laptop Chargers Back-up Battery Pocket Charger DSLR Camera Lenses Extra camera batteries SD Cards Tripod Phone Earbuds/headphones

Passport Visa(s) Physical tickets or passes Copy of your passport Copy of your travel insurance Copy of your health insurance information Copy of your reservations

Cash Credit Cards ID

Extras (that you’ll probably want):

Travel Towel Neck Pillow Travel journal Pen Water bottle Deck of cards

Luggage and Packing

Last but certainly not least, you’re going to need to be able to pack up everything and luggage can make or break your trip. For a week long trip you should be able to get by with a large carry-on and a personal item if you’re flying.

Here are my favorite carry-ons for the plane:

If you’re taking a roadtrip, you can get away with taking a standard size suitcase like the one that comes in the Cal Pak set and a smaller day-bag. Just always remember to bring a day bag as there may be day trips or hikes that you want to take at your destination that will require more than a purse and less than a massive suitcase.

Either way you’ll want to make sure your bag is organized, which you can do with a solid set of packing cubes. These are my favorite:

I’m not sure who exactly came up with the idea for packing cubes, but if not the first Eagle Creek was one of the first to bring out packing cubes and they have some of the highest quality ones out there. These are made with washable rip-stop nylon that is durable and lightweight so it doesn’t bulk up your bag. Better than your average packing cube, these compression cubes have a double zippered system that compresses the contents down and saves you even more space in your bags. These are on the pricier side though, but I’d argue that there an investment well made.

For security, if your bag doesn’t have inbuilt TSA locks, you’ll want to get a set of those. It keeps prying hands out, and the TSA has a special key to unlock it if necessary. Even if you’re flying carry-on, it’s always possible that they need you to gate-check your luggage.

Another favorite of mine if I’m checking my bag is a bright luggage tag. Like everyone else standing at the carousel, I have black luggage and no one likes to play the game of “your bag or mine?” when you’ve just spent several hours cooped up on a plane and are in a hurry to get to your hotel and get your vacation started.

Printable Travel Packing List

Last but not least, we’ve got you covered with this printable travel packing list that lets you check off everything you need for the week:

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe (Plus Checklist!)

This post has 5 comments.

dont forget a pair of pajamas too 🙂

I almost forgot those

Love your ideas thanks ?

How do I print it out

Hi Janice! The easiest way is probably to right click and open the image in a new tab and then print from that browser window. You can also save it to your desktop and print. Hope that helps!

One-Week Packing List for Carry-On [2023]

June 15, 2023
Solo Travel Checklists

Are you about to embark on an exciting adventure, but only have a small carry-on to pack your belongings? Don't worry, our team at Travel Checklist™ has got you covered! We have compiled the ultimate one-week packing list for carry-on, so you can travel light and stress-free!

How to Pack a Week's Worth in a Carry-On

Packing for a week in a carry-on can be a daunting task, but it's not impossible. Follow these tips to make sure you make the most out of your small space:

Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and minimizes wrinkles.
Use packing cubes to organize different categories of clothes such as tops, bottoms, and underwear. This makes unpacking and getting dressed a breeze.
Wear your bulkiest items such as jackets and boots instead of packing them.
Use smaller toiletry containers and take only what you need. Consider buying travel-sized toiletries.
Opt for versatile clothing items that can be dressed up or down, and mix and match well together.
Plan ahead and check the weather forecast for your destination so you can pack accordingly.

We have found that these tips are essential for packing for a week in a carry-on!

What to Pack for a One-Week Trip

Here is a complete packing list for your one-week trip in a carry-on:

4-5 shirts (versatile tops that can be dressed up or down)
3-4 pairs of pants (jeans, leggings, or trousers)
1 pair of shorts for warmer climates
1-2 sweaters or light jackets depending on the temperature
7 pairs of underwear
3-4 pairs of socks
1-2 pairs of comfortable shoes
1 pair of dressier shoes
Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush
Hairbrush or comb
Razor and shaving cream or razor for electric razor
Face wash and moisturizer
Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)

Electronics

Phone and charger
Camera and charger
Portable charger
Adapters for international travels
Your travel documents (passport, ID, visa if applicable, etc.)
Cash and credit cards
Small first aid kit with band-aids and pain relievers
Snacks for the plane or road trip
Reusable water bottle
Book or e-reader

General Tips for Packing Light

Here are some additional tips our team has found helpful for packing light:

Consider wearing your bulkiest items on the plane or in the car to save space in your luggage.
Pack outfits that can be mixed and matched to save space.
Use compression bags to save space.
Use travel-sized toiletries and refill them as needed.
Pack your shoes at the bottom of your carry on, and use the space inside them for smaller items.
Don't pack things 'just in case'. Only pack what you know you will use on your trip.

These general tips will make sure that you pack light and efficiently!

Quick Tips and Facts

According to a survey , the average person checks a bag with 27 pounds of clothing, yet only wears 55% of what they pack.
Using packing cubes can save up to 60% of space.
Rolling your clothes is not only space-efficient but also minimizes wrinkles.
The weight limit for a carry-on bag is usually between 15-22 pounds.

How much should I pack for 7 days?

It depends on what kind of trip you are taking, but a good rule of thumb is to pack for only one week, and do laundry if necessary.

What should I pack for a week on a plane?

In addition to the items listed above, make sure to pack comfortable clothing such as leggings or sweatpants, a sweater or jacket as it can get chilly on the plane, and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out any noise.

How do you pack a week worth in a carry-on?

Use the tips listed above, like rolling your clothes and making use of packing cubes. Only pack what you need and pick versatile clothing items.

Final Thoughts

We hope that this one-week packing list for carry-on has been helpful for your upcoming travels! Remember to pack efficiently and smartly, and leave room for any souvenirs you might pick up along the way. Don't forget to double-check that you have all your travel documents and enjoy your trip stress-free!

As a recommendation, we suggest using packing cubes such as the Eagle Creek Packing Cubes and compression bags like these KonMari ones to maximize your storage space.

References:

The Perfect Packing Formula
Eagle Creek Packing Cubes
KonMari Compression Bags

What should a woman pack for a 5-day trip [2024].

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

Erin Miller

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

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

General Packing Tips & Tricks

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.

Essentials first.

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

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

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

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

Lay everything out.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUT STUFF BACK!

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

Pack it up.

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

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

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

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Pack liquids in secure bags.

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

Utilize shoe space when you can.

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

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

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

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

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

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

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

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

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

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

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

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

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

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

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember to:

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

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Do packing cubes really save space?

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

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

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

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

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

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

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

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

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

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

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

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

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

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About Erin Miller

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

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The 10 Best Packing Cubes for Travel [2023]

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The Ultimate Minimalist Packing List for a Week: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to minimalist travel packing , it is all about the art of packing light and smart with the absolute minimum essentials, with the aid of suitable minimalist baggage , while still enjoying your journey to the fullest. In other words, minimalist travel means to think deeply about what you actually need instead of what you want and travel with less .

A bunch of unnecessary stuff would undoubtedly be a burden for your trip and ruin the whole experience. Just imagine arriving at the destination, dragging your heavy luggage around everywhere under the scorching sun or against the biting wind blowing at your face. It can be pretty much a real headache, especially when you’re having so many things to take care of.

If you’re still worrying about what to include in your minimalist packing list or which baggage is the most suitable, let us help you answer those questions. In this article, our CabinZero team has sorted out for you the ultimate checklist for smart and minimalist packing experience.

Minimalist travel checklist for a week

More than often, the way you pack for a trip depends mostly on the destination and its weather, as well as how long you are going to be there. Yet for the most part, there are certain things that you definitely need to ensure a successful and comfortable journey. Check out our suggestion below of minimalist packing for a week and some on point minimalist packing tips . Once you adopt the mindset “less is more” in your minimalist packing list, you'll always have everything you need at your fingertips without the hassle of overthinking and overpacking.

Basic Minimalist Packing List

The more organised and well-prepared you are for travel, the more comfortable the journey will be. You will get the chance to learn more knowledge and obtain some precious travel experience while still enjoying your trip to the fullest. So ladies and gentlemen, here’s the most basic things you absolutely can’t get by without bringing:

Wallet – carry your ID and some currency with you
Travel Documents (ID, driver licence, insurance, boarding pass and visa if you’re travelling abroad)
Sunglasses (even when it might not be sunny, you still need to protect your eyes from UV rays)
Phone charger/ Backup phone charger
Hand sanitizer
E-reader (books can take up plenty of space, so you’d better invest in a Kindle or another effective e-reader for better minimalist packing)

Image from Unsplash

Minimalist Packing List For Women

1. toiletries bag.

Regardless of the destination, it is important for ladies to appear as your best while feeling great and comfortable. To ensure that, our checklist below can help you remember all the essential toiletries items:

Conditioner
Perfume/Cologne (one is never fully dressed without perfume)
Makeup remover
Facial wipes / cleanser
Hair brush or comb
Skincare products

>> May be you also like: The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List

2. Light makeup

When you're on a one-week excursion , it’s better to just bring enough makeup for those picture-perfect moments, instead of dragging a full collection of makeup with you everywhere. For a basic set of makeup essentials, here’s what you need:

Rosy blusher
1-2 lipsticks
Travel size perfume

3. Clothes and Accessories

For ladies, travel packing tends to result in piles of clothing, bags full of toiletries, a multitude of chargers, and dozens of extra items crammed in the suitcase. To avoid this, you should choose clothes with optimal function to maximise your potential for varying travel outfits. Here’s our suggestion to make planning your travel wardrobe a breeze:

1 light jacket or pullover
1 cardigan/sweater
1 dressy dress
2 pairs of shorts
4 casual shirts (tees or tanks)
1 pair of sleeping attire
1 swimsuit (cover-up or one piece)
1 pair of sneakers/ walking shoes (choose comfortable ones, chances are that you’ll be walking more than usual when travelling)
1 pair of sandals
1 easy mix-match purse or clutch
8 pairs of underwear
2-3 pairs of socks
Accessories (scarves, hats or jewellery)

Leave the just-in-case items at home ladies. Images from Unsplash

Minimalist Packing List For Men

Packing can be pretty much an exhausting experience for gentlemen. What should you bring? How can you put everything you need in one suitcase? Well, worry no more! Keep scrolling and check out the minimalist packing list for a masculine style from our team.

1. Toiletries Items

Shower Gel and/or Soap
Toothpaste -(get a travel sized one to save space)
Moisturiser (this is a must for cold weather condition)
Perfume/Cologne (you are never fully dressed without perfume)
Hair gel, hair clay and comb

>> May be you also like: Can You Bring A Razor On A Plane?

2. Clothes and Accessories

To get no less than 10 outfits for one-week trip into your minimalist packing list, you should include:

1 white, grey and black T-Shirt
1 black sweater (or any other neutral colour)
1 white button-up shirt
1 neutral quarter-zip sweater
1 black slacks
2 pairs of dark denim jeans
1 neutral jacket
1 dressy neutral shoe
1 neutral colored sneaker
Accessories (watch, hats, scarves, and belts)

Tips for minimalist packing

Once you can adopt a minimalist attitude while packing your suitcase, you will get to navigate your new destination much easier and also find it more comfortable on the road. Here are 6 tips for packing and travelling like a minimalist to keep in mind for your next journey!

Images from Unsplash

Choose a well-organised backpack

You might think you only need to get yourself a simple backpack, and toss all your essentials into it is enough to travel. But that’s not how minimalism works. Although minimalist travel is about simplifying life and living well with less stuff around you, it’s imperative that you start investing in something that is worth-it in the long run, a well-organised and versatile backpack.

Choose multifunctional clothes

Think carefully about which clothing to take and pack only essential items according to the weather conditions. Instead of packing the outfits you might want, focus more on the items you’ll definitely need or anything with multifunctional use for a better minimalist packing.

The same goes with other items such as toiletries, cosmetics, shoes, even bags. If it has only one purpose, reconsider whether you really need it or not. This will ensure an ideal and comfortable travel experience and also saves you plenty of time and space in the suitcase.

Check the weather forecast beforehand

Another minimalist packing advice we can give you is to check the weather forecast before you embark on a trip, which tends to be forgettable for most travellers. Regardless of where you’re heading for, it is always essential to learn about the weather forecasts of the travel destination in advance. This way, not only will you find it easier to clarify which clothes and items to include, but you also get to decide the best time to travel.

Stick to neutral colours

If you’re wondering about what to wear each day, here’s our suggested solution for you. Neutral colours like black, blue, grey or navy are all easy to mix together, and if you want to add some flourishes of colour, bring along the ones that can go well with the neutral colour that you already chose. As a result, you will get to create plenty of outfits without weighing yourself down with all the “options”.

Leave unnecessary electronic devices behind

Travelling has evolved dramatically and becomes easier and more convenient with the advent of technology. It’s a good idea to have a smartphone with you while travelling for efficient planning or for directions, safety, and to stay in touch on the go. However, other favourite yet unnecessary technological devices that you often use at home could probably stay there.

Consider what you can buy there

For most people, shopping for souvenirs is an integral part, as it can be a way to collect and give mementos to remember their trip or to share with friends and family afterwards. To make sure you’re still following the minimalist packing principles, opt for items that are easily portable, such as jewellery, magnets, patches, and ornaments instead of large and heavy souvenirs.

You can consider visiting a local post office and ship a box of your souvenirs back home so you don’t have to worry about how to toss them in your suitcase without breaking them. Check with the store to see if they can ship it back home for you.

Best CabinZero Backpack for your minimalist packing

As mentioned above, a good quality backpack to carry all your clothes and essentials will definitely help you travel with great ease and speed. If you’re looking for a minimalistic backpack for a week trip, keep reading and check out one of our best-seller products.

Classic Backpack

Style and colour

Though they appear with different styles, most of our products follow a minimalist, versatile and old school look. For this Classic Backpack , Absolute Black is picked by the majority of our followers, but if you are looking for something brighter, the range of choice for other shades is still available.

Size and Dimension

These packing cubes are perfectly sized to fit inside our 44L, 36L and 28L bags. Each cube is fully lined and it has a nylon outer, along with a convenient grab handle outside the bag, making it easier to bring around.

Cabinzero Military Backpack

If you are an enthusiast of minimalist travelling, don’t miss out on the CabinZero Military model. There are three colour shades available for this Military Backpack (green, black, and navy), yet the Absolute Black is also favourably chosen by many followers.

These packing cubes are perfectly sized to fit inside our 44L, 36L and 28L bags. Each bag has an airflow system on both the rear panel and shoulder straps, making it easier to bring around. You can keep it company for any outdoor activities with its optimal ventilation and breathability.

As you can see, here at CabinZero, it is our priority to advocate for our clients with our simple, lightweight purposefully-designed backpacks to make travelling much easier. So consider investing in these items for a minimalist and comfortable journey in the long run. You can visit our website to check out other products as well.

Got a question? We are here to answer!

Here are some of the top questions that we get asked the most from our beloved followers about minimalist travel checklist . If you’ve got more to ask, let us know in the comments and we’ll answer from our own experience.

Should I fold or roll my clothes for minimalist packing?

Definitely the rolling technique.

Tightly roll your clothes before putting them in your backpack or packing cubes in order to prevent clothes from getting wrinkled. This will also help you to save plenty of space and organise your bag better.

What should I avoid?

Don’t bring a whole wardrobe with you. If you’re travelling for 7 days, you won’t need 7 pairs of pants or 7 tops and dresses. Just follow our minimalist packing list for females and males above and cut down on the non-essentials.

The same goes with other essentials such as personal-care items, cosmetics, shoes and medication. Keep it simple.

Tip : Try to plan out your outfits ahead of time, then mix and match when you get there.

Phuong Nguyen

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The Ultimate Travel Packing List

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Creating my Travel Packing List was my least favorite part of planning our Around the World Trip. When I sought out help, the general travel checklist I found was of little use. I wanted – I needed – a detailed list of what to pack for my trip.

With little assistance, I floundered through the process of creating my own travel packing checklist – but I succeeded! Now, I’m sharing my list of travel essentials – including very specific details about what to pack for a trip – in this Ultimate Travel Checklist.

Best Travel Packing List

When I was determining what things to pack for my trip, I was torn between being a minimalist traveler and the fact that I was packing for a year-long adventure that would span all seasons. (Most travelers aren’t faced with this challenge, so I share important tips about how to create a packing list for a week or two throughout this post!)

Furthermore, as a budget-conscious traveler, I was faced with creating a travel packing checklist that included essential travel items, plus several Just-In-Case items, so that I wouldn’t have to buy them on the road. It was a strenuous task, but I am now convinced that I have created the Ultimate Packing List.

My detailed packing list includes every item I carry – as well as the bags I carry it all in – with detailed specifics of those travel items, too.

It is, perhaps, important to note that while we are full-time travelers, what I pack does not differ greatly from what I would pack for a week-long vacation. Whether you are looking for an international travel packing list for a week in Europe or a backpacking packing list for a month-long trip to Southeast Asia, our universal packing list can help!

In this post, I talk in detail about my trip packing list – including why some items are necessary and which items can be left behind.

To help fellow travelers, we also have a printable travel checklist that we share – download our free checklist for packing, plus get other valuable travel tips!

Travel Packing Trouble

I’ve never met anyone who loves packing for a trip. In fact, I think packing for a vacation is the most daunting, upcoming-trip-buzz-killer there is. Incorporating necessities for traveling, comfort and style – and resisting the urge to pack everything you own – can be a real struggle.

I used to be an over-packer with a long packing list that went on forever. I was the traveler who checked two large suitcases for a one-week vacation…and only wore about a fifth of what was packed. However, those days of arriving at a hotel amongst a pile of suitcases are long behind me.

The more I traveled, the savvier I became. Coordinated outfits, essential toiletries and sensible shoes were the items I packed. I had a streamlined formula that destroyed my packing dilemma. I could pack for a week-long, overseas trip in about an hour; for weekend jaunts, I could pack and be out the door in 20 minutes’ time.

Travel Packing List for Year-Long Trip

When we decided to spend a year traveling the world, I contemplated what I would carry…and all of my packing angst returned. I spent weeks poring over packing checklists, agonizing over what would make the cut and fretting what would be left behind.

I read travel blogs that insisted I needed over-priced travel products on my list for packing; a farce I regrettably fell for regarding some items and good advice I carelessly dismissed regarding others. Yet, I retained enough self-awareness to know some travel items would never make my world travel packing list.

On the day we boarded that long haul flight to begin our around the world journey , my biggest source of stress was worrying over what I had packed.

Our one year of full-time travel turned into two…and two years turned into three. In that time, my packing worries diminished. Packing is no longer a source of anguish; I’m happy with my packing choices. Since we started our nomadic life in April 2014, what I carry in my backpack has barely changed – only requiring a few small adjustments and tweaks.

{For more insight to packing for long-term travel, read our post, What I Packed to Travel the World }

Packing for Vacation List

Somewhat surprisingly, creating a packing list for vacation is not that different from creating a long-term travel packing list. Travelers going on a trip to a neighboring state or on a vacation to the other side of the world can use my sample packing list as a guideline of what to bring.

When packing for a long trip – anything over a week and definitely when packing for a two-week vacation or longer – determine if you can do laundry during your trip. This will help keep your clothing packing list to a minimum.

Every traveler should tailor their packing checklist to the specific destination. When packing for a trip, keep in mind the weather and activities you will be participating in. Also, determine whether or not you will need to bring electronics (like laptops) and what kind of travel camera you want to bring on your trip.

Ultimate Packing List For World Travel and Vacations

My packing list seldom varies, but if I add (or get rid of!) anything to what I pack, I update this Packing List.

I’ve provided a link to each item so you can see if it will work for your packing list for travel. I have attempted to link to the exact product (make, model and color) that I own, but some of the things I pack are no longer available. In that case, I’ve linked to a similar product.

I share my packing list information in an effort to help other travelers create their packing lists for vacation, but packing is extremely personal. Above all, my best packing advice: Pack What’s Comfortable!

What To Pack Free Packing Checklist by JetSettingFools.com

Get Your FREE Packing Checklist!

TRAVEL CLOTHES

When it comes to making a travel items list, the best place to start is with clothing.

I pack clothes that can be worn in all weather; the items I carried in my backpack to Iceland in winter are the same as when we travel to Vietnam . While my list of clothes to pack will likely work for travelers making a vacation packing list for California in the spring (when it’s warm during the day and cool at night) or to Croatia in the autumn , I think summer or winter travelers should plan clothing that is better suited for the hot or cold weather.

Likewise, if you are creating a beach vacation packing list – or are packing for a cruise to the Arctic – then you will want to tailor your checklist to weather-appropriate gear.

Pro Tip: All clothing on your travel items list should be of the same color scheme to create a travel capsule wardrobe. This is a great hack for packing light – as you will need to pack fewer clothing items overall. Find out more about creating your capsule wardrobe and other top tips in our Packing Hacks article!

Pants, Skirts and Dresses: Vacation Packing List Tips

My trip packing checklist includes a variety of bottoms – including jeans, yoga pants, leggings, capris, a skirt and a skort – but I only pack one pair of each. Many minimalist travelers warn against packing heavy jeans, but honestly, I love wearing jeans – so they make my packing list for vacation and world travel.

One thing that I don’t travel with is zip-off, convertible pants – and here is why: I am not comfortable wearing them. I do think they are brilliant – and I would even say they are backpacking essentials if you are an adventure traveler or extreme minimalist.

However, as I mentioned earlier, you must be comfortable in the clothes you wear on your trip. I packed zip-off pants for my first trip to Europe and I hated wearing them because I didn’t think they were fashionable (I will admit, however, that the styles have come a long way since then!).

In warmer weather destinations, I love wearing dresses for long days of sightseeing…but they are also great for cool weather, when I can warm up the outfit with leggings and my thin hoodie. (This is why matching all clothing items is key!) My dresses are casual, loose-fitting and non-revealing (so that I am able to visit attractions – like churches and temples – in destinations where modesty is required).

Pack for Travel List: Pants, Skirts and Dresses

1 pair jeans (or casual pants or zip-off pants )
1 pair loose yoga pants with pockets
1 pair moisture-wicking leggings
1 pair cargo capris or shorts
1 thin, cotton skirt
2 casual dresses
1 casual skort

Long Sleeve Shirts, Short Sleeve Shirts and Tank Tops: Travel Packing List Advice

When we first left to travel the world, I didn’t pack enough shirts – I only had 1 tank top, 2 t-shirts and 3 long sleeve shirts in my bag. It was a huge mistake, as I was constantly doing laundry in both warm and cold weather climates. I have since added additional shirts without adding too much weight to my bag, which has resulted in seriously cutting down on the time I spend doing sink laundry!

That said, washable, quick-drying, non-wrinkling shirts are packing essentials. Pay close attention to the materials of the clothing you pack. If you need to wash a shirt on the road, you want to know that it will dry quickly – and that any wrinkles will shake out of clothing after taking it out of your bag.

Travel List to Pack for Shirts and Tops

4 long sleeve quick drying shirts
1 long sleeve cotton shirt
3 tank tops
1 thin camisole used for bottom layer or beachwear
3 loose fitting t-shirts
1 thin, zip up hoodie

Undergarments, Pajamas and Swimsuits: Packing Lists Tips

It seems to me that most travelers either over-pack or under-pack undergarments. Those who over-pack argue that you should have 1 (and sometimes 2!) pairs of underwear and socks for every day of the trip.

Minimalist packers contend that undergarments are the easiest to sink wash and the quickest to dry, so there is no reason to pack more than 5 pairs of each for any length trip. I pack 8 pairs of underwear and 8 pairs of socks (which is also what I recommend for anyone who is making a packing list for a week or longer).

ExOfficio underwear are all the rage for travelers – but, personally, they haven’t lived up to my expectations due to an awkward fit, color breakdown and ripped elastic. I still travel with them (mostly because of the money I shelled out to buy them), but I much more prefer wearing the breathable Fruit of the Loom bikini underwear – which cost a mere fraction of the price of ExOfficio.

Travel Packing Checklist for Undergarments

1 set of pajamas
1 bikini swimwsuit (choose one swimsuit that fits your style)
4 Exofficio underwear
4 Fruit of the Loom underwear
2 sport bras
2 bras and 1 racerback bra
6 athletic socks
2 socks for flats or slip on shoes
1 fuzzy socks or travel slippers
1 compression socks

Travel Outerwear: Coats, Gloves, Hats, Scarves and Wraps

We travel in all seasons, so I pack a variety of caps and gloves (as I found they were necessary after we first started traveling). However, for a shorter, destination-specific trip, I would choose between thin and wool, rather than packing both. And, quite obviously, winter apparel is completely unnecessary if making a beach trip packing list.

The most multi-function clothing item I pack is my wrap – and, in my opinion, it is an essential item for travelers. In addition to its obvious purpose, I have used mine as a beach towel, bath towel, picnic blanket, airport blanket and bus pillow. The one I carry is black, thin and cost around $10…and I use it all the time.

I have – unfortunately – gone through several pairs of sunglasses since we started traveling. I started with my favorite – and expensive – pair of Maui Jim sunglasses , but lost them while in Ireland. After that, I went ultra-cheap…and wasn’t surprised when three consecutive pairs broke just after a few weeks of use. I currently travel with a moderately-priced pair of polarized sunglasses, which are sufficient…but not heartbreaking if they get lost or broken. (That said, I am looking forward to the day I upgrade to Maui Jim’s again!)

List of What To Pack for Outerwear

1 lightweight zip up fleece (with zip pockets)
1 water resistant jacket (which fits over fleece)
2 fashion scarves (or a secret zippered pocket Travel Scarf )
1 versatile wrap
1 baseball cap (or travel hat )
1 thin winter cap
1 warm winter cap
1 pair of thin winter gloves (with touchscreen functionality)
1 pair of wool mittens
Sunglasses for travel

Travel Shoes: Packing Advice

When it comes to shoes, I think most travelers can get by with just 3 pairs. Shoes take up too much space to pack any more than that. Make sure the shoes you choose for your trip go with all of your outfits and – most importantly – that they are comfortable for exploring.

For more detailed information about what shoes to pack for your trip, read our blog post, The Best Travel Shoes !

Shoes for Travel Packing Checklist

1 pair walking shoes for sightseeing and hiking
1 pair casual shoes (or casual travel flats or foldable flats )
1 pair flip flops

Travel Packing List and Free Packing Checklist by JetSettingFools.com

TRAVEL TOILETRIES LIST

When it comes to your toiletries packing list, it is important to strike a balance between space-saving items and short-changing yourself. Our best recommendation when packing toiletries is to consider the overall length of your trip. If you are packing for two weeks or less, it is best to pack travel-size toiletries.

That said, bathroom essentials are available all around the world, so replacing these items while traveling is not likely an issue. If you are packing for a long trip, it might be better to bring some full size toiletries (but it really depends on where you are going and how much it would cost to replace them at your destination).

Pro Tip : One more thing to consider is that the price of sunscreen and shaving cream is ridiculously inflated in some of the top destinations around the world, so it’s best to pack an ample supply.

Essential Travel Toiletries Tips

Re-fillable travel bottles are the way to go for bathroom essentials like lotions and shampoo. Many travelers swear by the GoToob brand. If you don’t have travel size bottles, however, many travel-size items are sold together in a convenient toiletry travel kit .

I used to travel with disposable facial cloths (cut into halves or quarters to make the box last longer), but now just use regular soap to wash my face. I have also used soap or hair conditioner instead of shaving cream.

Essential Travel Toiletries List

Toiletry bag with hanger (for bathrooms where there is a hook, but no counter space)
Travel size Bar Soap (just in case it is not provided at our accommodations)
Shampoo Conditioner 2-in-1 (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
Travel size Shaving Cream
Travel size Hair Brush
Electric Toothbrush
Travel size Toothpaste
Retainers (with case and special brush)
Unscented Body Lotion (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
Facial Cleansing Wipes and/or Individual Makeup Remover Wipes
Everyday Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen
Full or Travel size Deodorant
Kleenex travel pack
Toilet paper (folded in a snack-size ziplock or these handy travel rolls )
Tweezers, Nail Clippers, Nail File Kit
Cuticle Cream
Quick-dry Washcloth

Makeup and Travel Essentials for Women: Advice for What To Pack

While we do include makeup on this packing list for women, I recommend keeping it simple with just a few makeup travel bag essentials.

Also, ladies, don’t forget to put feminine products on your travel essentials list! In some countries – like many in South America and several in Europe – the choice of feminine products isn’t as liberal as in other parts of the world (like the United States). If you have a preference for tampons, you should pack them, as they may not be available where you are traveling. Some female travelers like to use the Diva Cup .

Women Travel Essentials List

Face Powder
Face Powder Brush and Concealer Brush
Eyelash Curler (travel size)
Feminine products
Simple Fashion Jewelry

Travel First Aid Bag: Advice for Packing Lists

My first aid travel bag is one of my must-have travel items. I carry an assortment of medications (both prescription and over the counter) that are within easy reach if I need them.

Medicine bottles can take up a lot of space and it can be tempting to just mix all the medications together, which isn’t ideal. I use small, individual jars with screw caps to store medications – and use a marker to label each bottle. A weekly pill box could also work in a travel first aid kit.

For more of our tips, read our blog post Staying Healthy While Traveling !

First Aid Kit List of What To Pack

Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer
No-rinse hand cloths or Wet Ones Wipes
Band Aids, Antiseptic and Cortizone Cream
Tums and Anti-diarrhea
Dayquil and Emergen-C
Anti-histamine
Sea bands (for motion sickness)
Medications

TRAVEL ODDS AND ENDS

All of our odds and ends items may not be necessary for a weekend packing list, but a few of these items are all-star travel accessories…and you might already have them around the house.

Check out our list of Everyday Items for Travel for tips on why you should pack these items!

Pack for Travel: List of Just in Case Items

Silk Sleep Sack
Sleeping Mask and Ear Plugs (this is one of our essentials for Long Haul Flights )
Water Bottle (these collapsible water bottles are great for travelers!)
Bottle Opener
Mini Mag Light Flashlight
Mini roll of duct tape
Binder clips , carabiner clips and rubber bands
Re-sealable plastic bags: sandwich and gallon size
Combination lock
Small Scissors , Sewing kit and extra safety pins
Travel size laundry detergent (for machine and sink )
Travel Umbrella
Playing Cards
Business cards (hey, you never know!)
Travel Journal
2 pens and 1 marker

TRAVEL ELECTRONICS

As digital nomads, carrying all of these electronics are essential. It does, however, complicate travel days, so we only recommend that you pack what you will really use on your trip!

Electronics Travel Items List

Cell phone, iPhone, iPad, iPod
Laptop (similar to this slim Samsung Notebook ) or Tablet (like a Kindle )
External Hard Drive
DSLR Camera (with slim camera case and extra battery )
Point and Shoot Camera (with case )
SD Card (2)
Headphones (2)
Cords and battery chargers
Universal Converter
Portable Wifi and Charger Power Bank
Portable Speaker
128GB thumb drive (3)

What We Pack In For Travel

What we pack in is just as important as the items on our packing checklist. When flying to a destination, you will need to consider whether you want to deal with checked luggage or carry on only – as that can have a big impact on your list of what to pack. If you do decide to check a bag, read our tips on how to avoid your luggage getting lost .

We carry backpacks, rather than suitcases, because we think it is a more efficient way to travel. You can read more about the pros and cons of both in our article, Backpack vs Suitcase !

Either way, the actual size of your luggage is a major consideration when creating your packing list for traveling. Both your luggage size and weight can incur extra baggage fees if traveling by plane.

Travelers attempting to avoid extra fees will likely want to stick to a Trip Essentials list – rather than including any just-in-case items that can be purchased on arrival if needed.

Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes are the top item on our travel accessories list (and one of our best overall packing tips)! We splurged on packing cubes and compression bags before we started traveling full-time – and it was, without a doubt, one of the very best pre-travel purchases we made.

We cannot imagine traveling without them as they help to save space and organize our travel gear. For more details, read about the benefits of Packing Cubes in our post, 5 Ways Packing Cubes Make Travel Easier !

I travel with a Messenger Bag – which doubles as my Carry-On and my Day Pack. When traveling by plane, it is essential to take a carry-on size personal item onto the plane that will fit under your seat. We feature other styles of day bags in our blog post, Which is the Best Day Pack for Travel ?

What Bags To Pack: Travelers Packing Checklist

Lowe Alpine Walkabout 45 backpack (similar to this backpack ) & Osprey Farpoint (for Kris)
Messenger Bag or other Day Bag
Compression Bags
Passport and document organizer (for extra credit cards, plus extra copies of passports and travel documents)
Money Belt and Bra Stash or Neck Pouch
Wallet and Small purse
Foldable, reusable shopping bag

Trip Documents

I have covered the top things to pack for a trip, but don’t forget to put your trip documents on your Travel Necessity list!

Plane tickets and boarding passes, hotel reservation information and trip insurance documentation all need to be packed in your bag. And, don’t forget your driver’s license, credit cards and cash.

For an International Packing List, make sure you have your passport and international driver’s license (if needed). I also highly recommend including a No-International-Fee credit card for your Overseas Travel Packing List – to avoid paying extra fees. It’s also wise to make copies of important documents to pack separately from the originals – just is case.

Also pack your Travel Planner with your trip itinerary, hotel reservations and other trip details. Don’t have a trip planner? Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of your trip plans!

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

Tips for Specific Packing Lists

My Ultimate Travel List covers the entire contents of my luggage for full-time, Around The World travel. But what if you are a traveler seeking a 2 Week Travel Packing List or need a packing list for beach vacation? No worries – using my Ultimate Packing Checklist as a base and a few of my top tips, you can create your best checklist for traveling.

What To Pack for a Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Creating a packing checklist for vacation for a week is not that different from my worldwide travel pack list. That said, travelers creating a One Week Packing List will certainly want to swap out a few items from my list of travel essentials above.

Rather than choosing items to pack for a trip that work in both hot and cold climates, select apparel and accessories for your One Week Travel Packing list that are in season.

For example, if going to a cold weather destination, you likely won’t need to pack capris, shorts, a skirt or skort (but you still may want to pack one dress for an evening out). However, instead of just eliminating these items, you want to swap them out for cold weather items – like another pair of jeans and a comfy pair of sweatpants.

Additionally, for a 1-Week Vacation Packing Checklist, determine what Odds and Ends and Electronic items are necessary for your trip. Items like a combination lock, sleep sack and a laptop might not need to be packed for your trip.

What To Pack for a 2 Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Packing for a two week trip requires little adjustment from my detailed packing list above – but only if you have access to a washing machine.

Travelers creating a 2 Week Packing List without access to laundry facilities at the halfway mark of their trip will be required to either pack a lot more clothing or do sink laundry.

That said, travelers not planning on doing laundry during their two week trip do not necessarily need to pack 14 complete outfits. Pants and sweatshirts that go over another shirt could possibly be worn more than once on your trip without being washed.

As you make your two week travel packing list, resist the temptation to pack more than you need for your trip – as heavy luggage will weigh you down!

Beach Vacation Travel Necessities List

Beach vacations require a specific list of travel essentials that differs slightly from my outlined list above.

For a dedicated beach vacation, I highly recommend bringing at least 2 (if not 3) swimsuits so that each suit can be rinsed and have time to dry in between beach and pool sessions.

Additionally, your Beach Essential Travel Packing List needs to include ample sun protection. It is wise to bring plenty of sunscreen (either a large sunscreen that will need to be checked or two TSA-approved size carry on bottles of sunscreen ) – as well as a travel hat that will provide shade from the sun. Water shoes , a beach towel, a waterproof bag for your phone and snorkel gear are other travel packing essentials for the beach.

Complete Travel Check Off List

I have listed every item that I pack for traveling in order to help you come up with your ultimate list. That said, travel packing lists are very personal – and not necessarily the same for every single trip.

To get started with your perfect Vacation Travel Packing list, it’s best to write down the items you intend to pack in your suitcase. To help, we have created an ideal Travel Packing List template. If you want our printable lists for packing, get them here .

Start planning your next big trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing ! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

The Ultimate Travel Packing List Plus Free Packing Checklist by JetSettingFools.com

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One Bag Travel: The Fashionista’s Guide to a Lugagge Free Minimalist Packing List

Packing , Packing Tips

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I just spent a one week summer vacation luggage free –I packed all my stuff into my favorite purse! Think carryon or one bag travel is impossible for fashionistas? Well, there’s no more excuses! Check out my minimalist packing list!

One Bag Travel: Go Luggage Free

Packing light doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! That’s what TFG is all about: we help you make smart packing choices while staying true to your personal style when creating your travel capsule wardrobe .

In one of my lightest packing feats yet, in this article I showed you how I traveled with a small carryon for a four-week trip to Colombia and Portugal, including a two-week cruise across the Atlantic Ocean.

Inspired by my ability to downsize on that trip, I wanted to take even less on a one week vacation in July. However, little did I know that I was going to end up with my lightest packing accomplishment ever!

I packed for a one week summer vacation luggage free in my Rebecca Minkoff Backpack !

Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack

And the best part? On both trips I didn’t sacrifice any of my girly needs. I still brought all of my makeup, flat iron, two pairs of cute shoes, and fun feminine clothing, too!

While this may not sound very impressive since it was only a one week trip (not a four week trip like my last one ), remember that packing for a longer trip doesn’t mean you have to pack more stuff, it just means you have to do laundry once a week as needed.

The major advantage I had with this minimalist packing list is that I was traveling in hot weather.

However, I could’ve easily packed three less items (party dress, one pair of shorts, and one top) to save even more space. I could have also sacrificed for one bag travel by leaving behind some girly luxuries like my makeup bag or flat iron.

Read the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack review including feedback from our readers!

But why would I want to forego my personal style when I don’t have to?

Another major plus on this trip is that I wasn’t planning to work since I was only going away for one week. As a digital nomad, normally I have to bring my arsenal of tech anywhere I go, but in this case, my iPhone was all I needed.

And as an avid scuba diver, I usually also bring my diving essentials wherever I travel but not on this trip. It was just a one week vacation with friends including a road trip!

My item of choice for one bag travel: the top right black leather backpack

I flew into Guadalajara where our road trip began with a stop in Tequila (the home of tequila), three nights in Puerto Vallarta, and then three nights in Guadalajara.

There were six adults in the SUV (three couples) and while there was plenty of space for us, there wasn’t much space for our stuff! Between purses and luggage, there were twelve bags total – boy, am I glad I decided to go luggage free!

It was fun getting a chance to take a break from all my long-term travel gear and just pack for a one week vacation.

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

This was my “non-minimalist” minimalist packing list:

My one bag travel efforts consisted of a 9-Piece Travel Essentials Packing List , two pairs of shoes, toiletries, and all my girly essentials. I needed enough to last for eight days without doing laundry (except for undies).

My activities included: two pool days in Puerto Vallarta, a day tour in Tequila, two sightseeing days in Guadalajara, three dinners at nice restaurants, and three travel days.

Watch the video to see how everything fit into my purse and when you’re done, read the rest of the post below for even more details!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube Channel for access to all my packing videos!

Here’s a full summary of everything I packed including what’s inside each organizer and all the clothing that I packed!

Slim Packing Cube including:

Coral sleeveless top
Black sleeveless top
Olive green shorts
Black dressy shorts
Blue printed summer dress
Blue printed party dress
6 undies (5 thongs, 1 boyshort)
1 underwire bra
1 underwire bikini
Fitness tee (to sleep)
Fitness shorts (to sleep)

EZ Packing Cube (small clear organizer for toiletries)

Face wash, eye cream, and face moisturizer stored in small, stackable travel containers
2 oz shower gel
3 single use shampoo packets (I only wash my hair every 2-3 days)
1 oz conditioner
2 oz body moisturizer
Small sunblock stick
10 ear buds
1 razor (I used the conditioner as shaving cream)
Full size electric toothbrush without charger (fully charged it lasts 6-8 days)
Travel size liquid deodorant

NOTE : in the video I say that the above organizer also has my daily essentials but it doesn’t. I got confused with a trip I took the following week!

Small pouch for daily essentials:

Antibacterial wipes
A few bobby pins
1 ribbon hair tie
Tiny nail file
Travel size hair brush
Two tampons
One panty liner
Half strip of antihistamines
Half strip of motion sickness pills
Half strip of painkillers

Small pouch for makeup (also used as a clutch):

Foundation in 10ml travel container
Highlighter stick
Concealer pot
Eyebrow pencil
Tiny eyeshadow palette
Two double sided brushes
Blush Brush
Travel size mascara
Nars multiple stick
Stud earrings

Other items stored in backpack purse:

Naot walking sandals
1” Flat iron
Small tissue packet
iPhone in wristlet (doubles as wallet)
Ray-Bans in their case
iPhone charger

Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Essentials Packing List (one party dress not shown)

NOT IN THE BACKPACK:

Usually I also pack my travel outfit in my luggage to ensure I’m never maxed out on space. However, for a one week trip I decided it would be okay not to include the clothing I wore on the plane.

This is what I wore on the flight (top left pic):

Anatomie white travel pants
H&M White sleeveless top
Black zara jacket (sold out)
Nude underwire bra
Nude smoothing shorts
Tan/mustard lace up sandals
Y-chain necklace
Pointy triangle stud earrings

I emptied my backpack upon arrival at my accommodation in order to use it each day. For evenings, I used my makeup bag as a clutch and left my phone behind.

One very important thing to note is that the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack is probably about 10 liters of space, so even if you needed to bring one or two more slim packing cubes or a larger organizer in general, you can still follow this one bag travel concept and use a slightly more spacious purse.

I’d say most women’s handbags are double the size of this backpack purse!

If you need more space, you could be more strategic with the items you wear on the plane:

You could wear your bulkiest shoes (which I didn’t).
Wear another clothing item or two on the plane.
Wear a smaller purse to hold a few more essentials (I just used my makeup bag as a clutch at night and my backpack during the day).
Use a cute waist belt for your passport and other essentials so you’re as hands free as possible while traipsing around the airport and sightseeing.
Place items in your coat pockets (my jacket didn’t have pockets).

As a style-conscious long-term traveler, downsizing my 65 liter backpack to a 40 liter carry on was a major accomplishment in 2012. Over the years I not only worked to pack fewer items, but I’ve also made a serious effort to lighten my load by using unique travel containers , choosing the best fabrics , and opting for compact versions of larger items.

In the process, however, I have always stood by Travel Fashion Girl’s motto: Minimize Your Luggage, Maximize Your Style.

And personal style is never worth sacrificing because it IS possible to carry fewer items–not just by using “travel tech fabrics”–but by strategically choosing only items you feel good wearing!

Here are a few pics from my trip!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

Want a winter version of this minimalist packing list? Stay tuned for my luggage free challenge when the temperature drops!

Do you have any tips for one bag travel? Share and comment below!

For more tips on how to pack light, please read the following:

75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
Ten Step Packing Guide for One Bag Travel
How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes

We hope you liked this post on one bag travel and my fashionista-approved minimalist packing list. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

90 comments.

This was the very first blog post of yours I ever read and also saw the video of your packing the Julian for your trip. I bought my Julian backpack purse in 2018 and I have been following you ever since! Still love that purse and use it all the time! Love that there is a whole community that share ideas and tips. Keep it going!

Hi Alex, I’ve been a fan for years! Question: Roberta Minkoff now has a jumbo size Julian backpack. Thoughts on that? I’m unsure which to purchase…the regular or jumbo? Also, do you notice if RM or Nordstrom or Amazon comes out with more color options during a particular time of year? They are fairly limited right now. (July 2022)

Hi Courtney, I am afraid that I have only tried the regular size bag so can’t really comment on the jumbo size. I have always been happy with the regular size.

You might find my review helpful to learn what I can fit in my regular purse: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/rebecca-minkoff-julian-backpack-review/

And yes they do tend to have more color options but for nordstrom, in particular, they tend to come available and sell out fairly quickly. Is there a particular style you would prefer?

Love this so much. I’m currently making a leather backpack for short business trips that will be 9L and your posts have confirmed it will be the perfect size. I can’t wait to pack it for the first time.

That is awesome to hear Samantha, so happy to have helped. Hope you have an incredible time on your travels! 💕

I’m laughing because I’ve been a fan for years and almost always travel with a carryon. Tomorrow I’m traveling up to Washington to visit my kids and other family and this is what I’ve packed in my car: 3 sewing machines, 3 boxes of sewing fabrics, pattern, scissors, etc, 3 boxes of clothes that no longer fit for my sister, 3 boxes of presents for grandchildren, a cooler with all the food from my refrigerator, some hanging clothes an 2 boxes of clothes because I’ve lost weight and none of the clothes I have up there will fit. I feel like I’m the role model for anti-carryon!

Hi Kathy, everyone is different! It’s about packing and traveling in a way that makes sense for you. Hope you have the most amazing time with your family! ❤️

We wrote a post about this to change the carryon misconception: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/traveling-carry-on-only/

Love this- and your outfits! I’m not sure how you had enough clothes without laundry for every day, including a dry swimsuit? Would love to see a breakdown of each event ( day, night etc) and what you wore. And did you use the travel shoes for your party dress? Thanks!

Hi Stephanie, thank you!!! Have a look at TFG’s signature packing lists for ideas for a capsule wardrobe and how many clothing items you could pack, I based this trip on our Minimalist Packing List: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/

The vacation packing list is for indefinite travel. Generally speaking, you can pack enough for one week then do laundry once a week depending on the duration of your trip.

The clothing is shown above the section that says: Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Essentials Packing List (one party dress not shown).

Hope this helps!

love this post and have re-read it several times. i am in the UK and prefer to travel carryon only where i can. i prefer wheeled mini suitcases to backpacks (easier to use) but i would like to suggest a couple of items to you Alex that i have found invaluable. all my handbags are from The Healthy Back Bag Company (they are based in London, UK) and they make a Baglett which i have 6 of in diff colours. i find that they can hold a decent sized phone (i have the Galaxy S8) and a purse plus lippie and keys.i use this as my evening bag. i also have their Large Baglett which holds my passport and phone plus hairbrush lipbalm gum tissues and mini notepad and pen – ideal for flights.

Hi Carrie, so pleased you enjoyed the post!! Thank you for sharing your recommendation for a purse with us, always love hearing about our readers favorite products! Happy travels! ?

Hi, great tips. I have the rucksack “regular” size the slightly larger one but to me seems super small. The one you are showing seems much bigger. Which size do you have?

Hi there, thank you for reaching out! So pleased you found the article helpful. The backpack is the Rebecca Minkoff Julian and I have it in the regular size (which is also known as the large), you can read my review of it here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/rebecca-minkoff-julian-backpack-review/ Hope this helps! 🙂

I love this post. I can’t believe I found it again so easy. Always inspiring. I love that you didn’t skimp and brought your flat iron.

Hi Lisa, thank you so much for your lovely comment, so happy to hear that you enjoyed the post! ?

I just discovered this post and I’m wondering if you ever got around to the luggage free winter trip and if so how it went.

Hi Whitney, thank you for your comment! Let me look into this for you!

Just came across this bag – reminds me of the Rebecca Minkoff bag you love: https://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-small-giani-leather-backpack/4641672?origin=topnav&cm_sp=Top%20Navigation-_-Get%20Inspired-_-New%20Arrivals&page=4&top=24

Great post. I tried to find this back pack but am not sure I found the same one. I know it comes in multiple sizes, and the one I bought also has the zippered pocket on the back (the smaller one does not) but I don’t think it is as large as yours.

Where did you get it?

I’m totally inspired by you! I LOVE this idea…totally petrified of it, but love it just the same. I’m the king of over packing. I can never decide what to bring, and usually pack twice as much as I need. As a petite woman, I feel like sometimes my luggage weighs more than I do!!! Thank you for the tips and inspiration. Can you also post more on where you bought some of your clothes. They look amazing, and obviously travel well. Thank you.

I followed your advice this past spring. I went to two climates Holland and Cape Town, SA. I used a 12 piece module[ 6 winter, 6 summer items]. My bag weighed only 22 lbs. I wore all items.

Yay Awesome job 🙂 I’m glad the tips helped you travel light!

Love your sight and all your help ….just have 3 questions: 1. Any cheaper options for a stylish backpack/purse? I love yours. It cannot cover the $. 2. Brand of flat iron dual voltage for Europe? 3. Heading to Rome in mid March. Any ‘Must have’ fashion item? Thanks! Nancy

This has totally inspired me to evaluate my packing to travel with less. And to get a backpack purse. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharing Muriel! Happy travels!

This is honestly extremely impressive – Sadly I do not think I will ever be able to pack this light because my camera equipment alone takes up so much space, but I definitely like the message here and have worked on downsizing considerably when I travel.

Thank you for your kind words Rae! Every little bit helps when it comes to simplifying your packing! Safe travels!

Thanks for this post! I just recently went to Europe for the first time last spring for 3+ weeks. Your website inspired me to pack a 44l backpack (and no personal item) for the trip with less than 17lbs because of a plane ride we had booked. It took strategy because we had different weather between Paris, Barcelona, a cruise, and Greece. I had everything I needed for the trip plus room for the Louis Vuitton tote that I just had to get in Paris and hauled the entire trip. (My pack included a puff jacket and raincoat, which I used.) I was glad I didn’t pack any heavier because the 17lbs felt heavy quickly. Our next trip will be to Germany and surrounding countries in fall for at least 3 weeks maybe longer. I am toying with a 26l bag and maybe a 10lb limit for comfort. I can be a one shoe person with the right shoes and I am eyeing some short Birkenstock boots. (I have the Rebecca Minkoff backpack purse and have loved it. Bought it for running around Manhatten. I will have to try using it as my luggage for a trip.) Thanks for all of the tips! I didn’t think it was possible to meet the airline requirements, but with sites like yours it was possible. I do love my clothes so this has been an interesting process! I absolutely loved Europe, the people and the food!

Thanks for the note KC! Glad you’ve found our advice useful! Sounds like you’ve had some great travels!

This was amazing! I also looked at your video on YouTube, Alex. Since you manage to pack minimally and fashionably, it would be very helpful to see how you packed your eBags Slim Packing Cube. I would have like seeing the pictures of the clothes you bought (and how you mix and match them) in this post. You wrote it all down, but I find a visual extremely helpful.

Thanks Maura! This is how I pack my packing cubes: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-cubes-video-tutorial-learn-how-to-pack-light/ The clothing is shown above the section that says: Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Essentials Packing List (one party dress not shown)

Absolutely love the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack! I just used it on a two day trip to San Francisco. Thank you for sharing your travel style!

Thanks for reading Jessica! Glad you like the bag! Safe travels!

Wow! My dream is to travel luggage free some day! Very inspirational post.

Thanks for reading Diane! You can totally do it! Happy travels!

Thank you Diane! You can totally do it, we believe in you! Little steps at a time! Safe travels!

Absolutely love it – and I love that it gives me a new challenge! I have a 1 month trip to India and the Philippines coming up (for work) but now I am rethinking my packing strategy.

Thanks for reading Lauren! Glad we could help!

Really inspired by your website and it helped hugely on my recent holiday to Prague even though I did go over on toiletries – whoops!! But still was under the allowance so its a small win!!

Thanks Hannah 🙂 I’m glad you found it useful! Sounds like a big win to me!

This was so inspiring. I really want to get back to my minimalist packing roots. And I think I need a Rebecca Minkoff backpack/purse thingee too.

I Love my Rebecca Minkoff purse but it can be done with any purse of a similar size 🙂 You can do it!

Wonderful photos! The trip looks absolutely amazing!

And I love that you travelled with SO LITTLE for that trip!!!

Thanks Phebe 🙂 It was wonderful!

Realizing it is possible and easier to travel with one bag is fantastic. I remember the days of dragging monster suitcases throughout train and subway stations. It was horrible

I totally agree! Light travel is the way forward!

WOW! I was so inspired by this post. While I’ve been following TFG for nearly two years now, and work harder every trip to pack more lightly, this post encouraged me to tote just my backpack for a recent 6-day trip to Chicago where I visited with family. There were two “fancy” parties on the agenda (a niece’s 19th birthday party, and another niece’s first baby shower), so that meant packing two nice going-out outfits. And, since I was going to be around multiple family members the rest of the time, I didn’t want to look like I was wearing the same clothes all the time. I managed to do it, toting my full-sized laptop, an additional pair of shoes, and limited toiletries. I still overpacked (didn’t need a pair of shorts and tee I’d packed), but it worked out well. Next time, I’d probably rather bring a rolling tote (easier on my back) but still I impressed myself! Thanks TFG; couldn’t have done it without you!

Nice work! Anyone can do it 🙂

Very inspiring, hopefully I can eventually get to this minimalist stage

You can do it 🙂

This is like a traveling fashionista’s holy grail! I’m so impressed! I tend to travel light already, but I’d never dream of achieving this. Very useful post, thank you!

Thanks for reading Eleanna! We appreciate the compliment! But even more so, are happy the post helps! Keep traveling 🙂

This is a fab guide! Everything is so condensed! Jabeen x

Thank you for reading Jabeen! Appreciate the feedback! We love giving packing tips in simple, easy to digest formats! Happy travels!

Did they let you bring liquid make up like foundation? Customs wouldn’t let my husband bring an opened bottle of contact lens solution or a small bottle of hand cream in his carry on for a flight from Canada to the US!

I take liquid foundation in a small travel container. Each item should fit into a 100ml container, which should all fit into a smaller seethrough bag. Have a look at this post for ideas http://bit.ly/2auozV1

I had an uncle that was a world traveler and only carried on satchel bag with him at all times. this contained 2 pairs of underware, 1 white cotton shirt that he could wash and dry by the next morning and some shorts. He did this for years to the amazement of his fellow travelers!

This is awesome 🙂 I can see why he impressed them!

Love your site! So many helpful tips! Have traveled quite a bit but the older I get, the more I want to lessen the load while still looking decent. Am anxious for my next trip to try many of your fantastic tips! Thank you for taking the time to enlighten us al!! I appreciate you!

You’re welcome Shannon 🙂 It’s always nice to hear the posts are helping people!

Our last trip to Rome, we managed to get a week’s worth of clothes for each of us into one regulation-sized backpack — you inspire and challenge us! Besides, we’re there to have fun, not to worry about having more clothes than we really need 😉 Thanks again for sharing!

Nice Work 🙂 Exactly, the stress of packing is really not needed!

Love all the tips! I want to adapt the light packing travel, lifestyle! And everything helps!!!

Great timely article, I’m currently trying to pack for a four day road trip (2 out/2 back) and 8 days of business meetings with two formal dress dinners. I’ll wear jeans for the road trip and will be required to wear specific pants for one event. I prefer skirts for sitting in hours of lectures for comfort. Thanks, for providing a guide to decrease what I have to pack. Loving your site! Hopefully to go on a trip one day where I can pack light in one small backpack.

I’m glad you found it useful 🙂 Have a look at this business trip packing list for more ideas http://bit.ly/2anbdHm

This is my goal for every trip!!

Seriously impressed! And great inspiration for my next trip 🙂

Thanks Danielle 🙂 Anyone can do it!

Great post! I have one year of travel coming up, and can’t wait to try some of your ideas. My most minimal packing so far was a 3-day trip with my Tumi Knox backpack, but with your tips I think I can do it your way. We’ll be based in Hong Kong, taking shorter trips out of there, so your post is very relevant for me. Thanks for the inspiration!

Glad you found it useful! Have an awesome time 🙂

You may have answered in other posts but I’ve just found your site. What about wrinkling your clothing when stuffing it in the cubes so tightly?

Hi Terri 🙂 The best thing to do is to find wrinkle resistant fabrics 🙂 Take a look at this post for ideas http://bit.ly/29hB9VY

This is so inspiring! I can only imagine how freeing this was for you on your trip. I do carry-on with the Farpoint and a small purse now, but I hope to manage with as little as you had someday for the extreme convenience factor.

Thanks Sonia! Would love to do this full time but it was great at least for a shorter trip 🙂

Alex as always you are a packing inspiration. Your wonderful site, tips and tricks led me and my partner (after I convinced him it was possible) to travel for 8 months around the world using the Osprey farpoint 40. It was the perfect bag for that length of trip and today you have inspired me to pack even less for shorter trips. Thank you and happy travels, Bonnie x

Thank you Bonnie! I’m happy you and your partner found it possible to travel for an extended period of time a 40L bag! Shorter trips should be a breeze!

I love this post!!! It’s amazing to see what you can do with the right pieces! Thanks for sharing:):)

🙂 Yay! Glad you like it. I totally agree, the right pieces are key!

űgreat result of minimalist packing! This bag doesn’t even look 10 liters. So for the pool days there were no scarves or towels packed but you relyed on what the hotel provided?

Hi Bea for pool days I just used the pool towels provided by the resort and just used my white button up top open if I wanted some coverage 🙂

Loved this post! I am in awe as I am the dreaded overpacker dum dum dum lol. I need to take this approach for my upcoming (Aug 5) 2 week trip with the boyfriend to Peru to spend with his family as they are from there… The first week will be at a beach resort in the northern part of Peru so it’s warmer there in the days for swimming in the ocean and then we’ll go to Lima where they live for the 2nd week where it is cold. I hope I don’t overpack… The thing is I’m Afro-Latina and so I must travel with my own shampoo and most importantly conditioner… Anything they give at a hotel always leaves my hair tangled and dry and for 1 week at a beach resort where I’ll be washing my hair everyday I will need my conditioner lolol

Hey 🙂 I’m glad you found it helpful! It is possible to cut down on the amount you take! Take a look at this Peru post for some more ideas http://bit.ly/2apB4zE and have a great time!

I’m just wondering – since the backpack is leather, is it heavy? I try to always take canvas or a fabric bag when traveling, and I’m nervous about my stuff behind me in a backpack, but you make it all look so easy! You’ve inspired me to pack smarter!

Thanks Janell! I don’t find the leather to be heavy, perhaps the hardware adds a little weight but not enough to make a big impact – the versatility of the bag is worth it!

Awesome! Love this post! Curious… what do you use for a wallet? Where do you keep your cash, credit cards, etc?

Hi Marti! Glad you liked the post 🙂 My wallet is my phone case. You didn’t see it because I was using my phone to record the video but this is what I use: http://amzn.to/2ab4bFL

Is the flat iron dual voltage? I have gotten past taking a hair dryer but I have to have a flat iron that I can count on through out Europe! Thx!

Yes it is! It’s been fantastic abroad, no issues in Europe.

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Vacation packing list: 27 essentials for any trip.

This vacation packing list covers the major essentials you don't want to forget.

Vacation Packing List

Items in and out of a suitcase including shoes, sunglasses, swimwear and more.

Getty Images

Make sure you have everything you need for your next getaway.

While every vacation packing list ultimately looks different based on a variety of factors – the destination, traveler(s), budget and more – consider this guide a jumping-off point for the must-haves. You can also scroll down to More Vacation Packing Lists to see recommendations for specific trips.

Vacation packing list

For the journey, for the vacation.

Coolife 4-Piece Luggage Set in blue against white background.

Courtesy of Coolife

Before your adventure begins, you'll want to decide what type of bag(s) to pack. To determine the type of luggage you'll need, consider:

How many days will you be traveling? 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.
Who are you traveling with? Determine if you can combine your belongings to avoid unnecessary checked luggage fees. If traveling with children who can help carry bags, consider some kids luggage they'll be excited to carry or roll along.
What type of climate(s) will you be in? For cold weather vacations, you might consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag .
What are the baggage restrictions for your mode of travel? 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.
What kind of clothing will you need? Is this a casual trip or will you need formalwear for dinners and other gatherings? If you'll need the latter, you might want to purchase a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing.

Packing cubes

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

To maximize suitcase space and stay organized, invest in at least one set of packing cubes. Travel experts recommend any of the packing cubes by Eagle Creek , as well as this cheap, quality set on Amazon . For more options, check out The Best Packing Cubes, Chosen by Travel Experts .

Credit cards

When traveling, it's good to have at least two credit card options with you. That way, if there are any issues with one card (or maybe a merchant doesn't accept American Express or Discover, a common occurrence when traveling abroad), you've got a backup payment option. It's also helpful in the event your credit card gets compromised and subsequently locked.

Read: The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel documents

Having your boarding pass and personal identification is essential no matter where you're traveling. For international travel, you'll want a passport wallet for your passport along with any visa or customs forms you may need. Be sure to keep these documents either on your body or in your personal item that you place in under the seat in front of you on the plane (not in the overhead bin, where you may not always have access).

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Whether it's a long flight, train ride or car trip, dozing off without support can be a literal pain in the neck. Depending on what's comfortable for you, the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the Trtl Travel Pillow are two of the top U.S. News travel pillows . If you're short on space, you may want to consider the multitasking Tube Travel Neck Pillow , which doubles as a packing cube.

Water bottle

Staying hydrated while on the go is essential, and traveling with a reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly way to do it. The LifeStraw Go is dishwasher-safe (when you remove the filter) and made of BPA-free plastic; the flip-straw has a two-step filter to trap bacteria and more. To keep your water cold for hours, the YETI Rambler has a durable stainless steel construction in a variety of colors and is the perfect canvas for travel stickers you collect along the way. To save space, try the Nomader Collapsible water bottle.

Hand sanitizer and holder

Keeping your hands clean while traveling helps fend off germs and unwanted illnesses. Hand sanitizer is essential for any trip, and clipping a travel-size bottle of it to your carry-on or handbag makes it easily accessible when you need it. You can find hand sanitizer holders on Amazon or at your local dollar store. You may also want to consider some antibacterial wipes for your in-flight tray table and sticky situations.

Toiletry bag and toiletries

Organizing your makeup, hair products, personal hygiene items and shaving supplies in a quality toiletry bag – such as the well-rated Lug Trolley on Amazon – makes it easy to find your essentials while traveling. Depending on what you plan to pack, a hanging style like the L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag , with a removable shower caddy and built-in hook, helps to save counter space and is especially useful in tight cruise ship cabins. To easily see everything at once, choose any of the clear cosmetics cases from CALPAK , which are available in multiple sizes and color trims.

For air travel, you'll need to keep in mind the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: that all liquids, gels and creams must be 3 ounces or less and placed into a one-quart clear bag. You can find refillable and travel-size toiletries and reusable quart-sized TSA-approved bags on Amazon .

Read: The Best Toiletry Bags

Medications and first-aid kit

You'll want to be sure to pack any prescription medications in your carry-on bag, along with other medications you may need while traveling, such as Dramamine . It's also helpful to have a travel-size first-aid kit with Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and more.

Compression socks

For everything from long flights to walking miles exploring a new destination, compression socks can help provide additional support and reduce swelling. With varying levels of compression available, one medium-level option to consider is the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks – a U.S. News top pick .

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Walking shoes

Birkenstock Mayari sandals in matcha against white background.

Courtesy of Birkenstock

Every journey includes a fair amount of walking, and nothing can put a stop to the fun like foot pain. Before you depart, be sure to invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes . For a sneaker style, the ASICS Gel-Contend is a U.S. News top pick. If you'd like a slip-on style, the Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer for both men and women provides comfort and stability, while being able to be dressed up or worn casually. For a sandal, consider a supportive option like the Birkenstock Mayari .

Travel purse/bag

One way to keep identification, credit cards and other personal information organized and protected while traveling is with a well-designed purse or belt bag , such as the Anti-Theft Classic Messenger or the Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack by Travelon . The Lug Convertible Carousel also includes RFID protection and can be worn as a belt bag or as a crossbody.

If you're looking for a fashionable bag that can easily go from day to night, check out the TUMI Voyageur Crossbody , which has a choice of leather or nylon construction with leather accents, multiple compartments and gold hardware. The sustainable and machine-washable Vera Bradley Utility Tote Bag is another great option, with a removable shoulder strap and exterior pockets for your phone and other essentials.

Read: The Top Travel Purses

Long-sleeved shirt

When you're traveling, there's a good chance you might be changing climates or find yourself a bit chilled from air conditioning. Pack a long-sleeve tee, such as the L.L.Bean Beyond Soft Tee for women or the Carefree Unshrinkable Tee for men . This basic wardrobe staple works as a shirt on its own, a base layer in colder weather or a pull-on style over a tee. For young travelers, consider the Kids' Graphic Tee from L.L. Bean for a bit of playful fun.

Button-up shirt

For a shirt that can truly multitask, pack a button-up shirt. A classic style – like a Calvin Klein shirt for men or a timeless white button-down for women on Amazon – can be dressed up for dinner or a museum visit, paired with shorts and rolled sleeves for exploring, or put it on with a bathing suit as a cover-up.

This wardrobe staple is a travel essential. Versatile black, white or navy tees can be worn alone, under a blazer or layered for added warmth as needed. Pack a few basic options like the cotton tees at Lands' End for women , men , girls and boys , then add a fun graphic tee or two.

Packable jacket

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket in black against white background.

Courtesy of Patagonia

A jacket that can fold up small to be tucked into your luggage is essential for any vacation packing list. From rain jackets to lightweight puffer jackets, choose the perfect packable jacket to keep you warm and dry in any locale.

Evening outfit

Even if you're going to the beach or planning a casual retreat, chances are you'll go out for a nicer dinner at least one night. Women may want to consider a black travel dress on Amazon , which can be dressed up with evening sandals and a necklace (or worn during the day for sightseeing). Men can invest in a packable travel blazer and wrinkle-free dress pants.

Reusable/foldable bag

Whether you're heading to the local market or going on a day trip, a packable tote like the CALPAK Compakt Tote Bag is ideal for stowing your daytime essentials and finds you buy along the way. If you're the type that likes to buy a lot of souvenirs from your travels, the Lug Packable Boxer is ideal to use for a day tote while traveling and as a personal item on your return flight. One of these reusable bags can also double as a beach bag. Or, if you want to bring a beach bag to double as your everyday travel bag, check out the best beach bags from U.S. News for additional recommendations.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Focus on the moment (and enjoy the visual later) with a digital camera like the Panasonic Lumix G100 4K . A mirrorless model with both the ability to capture video and still images offers versatility whether you want to record the waves at sunset or snap a selfie in front of a museum. To get creative angles or have a tripod on the go, the Joby GorillaPod is a flexible and bendable option for travel.

If you're an active traveler, a GoPro HERO9 is a must-pack item. It has built-in stabilization features, and you can livestream your endeavors, film video or shoot images with this waterproof design. For a vintage-infused photo gallery, the Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is a hybrid camera that allows you to store images on a memory card or print them directly from the device. It's the perfect way to document your travels along the way.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the oceans with reef-safe sunscreen . Depending on your destination, some places – including Hawaii; Key West, Florida; Aruba; parts of Mexico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, to name a few – have laws against the sale of sunscreens with reef-harming ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Many of the traditional brands of sunscreen have these ingredients, so look for an effective mineral-based sunscreen like Blue Lizard or Sun Bum .

In addition to sunscreen, a hat protects your face from the sun's harmful rays. What's more, it can be a fashionable addition to your beach attire. A packable style like the San Diego Hat Company women's large brim hat can be rolled and packed into a suitcase or carry-on, and provide a generous amount of shade at the beach, by the lake and beyond. For more recommendations, see U.S. News' list of the best beach hats .

While there's an endless array of bathing suit options, classic styles like a black tank suit for women can be paired with a long skirt to be transformed into an outfit. Or, a classic men's swim trunk can be worn with a polo top to maximize your vacation wardrobe. For the kids, Lands' End offers cute and functional designs for girls and boys .

Beach towels

Whether you want to add something soft to your favorite beach chair or you want to lay it right on the sand, a beach towel that repels sand and dries quickly is a vacation must-have. Consider a quick-drying oversized Turkish towel from Amazon or an attention-grabbing Lilly Pulitzer beach towel . You may also want to invest in a beach blanket .

Ideal as added sun protection or for walking through the air-conditioned corridors of a resort or cruise ship, a cute swimsuit cover-up is another packing essential. Some options include a chic J.Crew beach shirt , a stylish romper or a sheer La Blanca kimono .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Nothing says laid-back vacation like a pair of flip-flops. Havaianas has styles for the whole family , in an array of colors and prints to coordinate with your beach attire.

Water shoes

Cuts on feet from coral, shells or even glass can be extremely painful. To protect the soles of you and yours, consider the Native Jefferson shoes , available in both children's and adult sizes. Designed for street wear, these versatile shoes are also water-friendly, making them ideal for everything from strolling the boardwalk to tubing down the river. For a more traditional water shoe, check out the Keen Newport sandals .

Sunscreen and cover-ups may protect your skin, but the sun can really hurt your eyes (especially when it reflects off the water). Top off your vacation style with Ray-Ban aviators or a classic Wayfarer . If you're seeking a chic retro vibe, you can't go wrong with a Kate Spade cat-eye frame.

More Vacation Packing Lists

Check out these other packing guides compiled by U.S. News:

Beach Packing List
Cruise Packing List
Alaska Cruise Packing List
Road Trip Packing List
Camping Packing List
What to Pack in a Carry-on

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 retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

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My Ultralight Minimalist Travel Packing List for 2024

Minimalist traveler walking down street in Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Executing minimalist travel is simple:

Choose a suitable bag that you can carry onto an airplane
Fill it with clothing, gear, and other travel essentials
Leave everything else behind

By doing so, you’ll experience the world feeling light as a feather, unbothered by the burden of unnecessary stuff.

I’ve learned the value of minimalist travel through visiting dozens of countries over years of travel experience. I carry everything I need to travel, work full-time, and film/photograph my adventures in an ultralight 25-liter personal item-sized bag .

I’m here to share the packing list I use to prepare for minimalist trips of a week or more and analyze every piece of gear I bring along.

Stay tuned; it’s time to lighten up.

Minimalist Packing List for 2023

Why Bring Less Stuff?

Minimalist Travel Bags
Must-Bring Travel Essentials
In-Transit Travel Clothing
Minimalist Travel Wardrobe
Cold-Weather Travel Clothing
Connectivity & Organization Gear
Minimalist Travel Toiletries Kit
Everything Else
Minimalist Packing List Variations
Final Thoughts on Minimalist Travel

Packing the minimum you need to explore your destination comfortably, much like ultralight backpacking , will reduce the weight on your back as you move from place to place. The less weight on your back, the more mobile you will be.

In well-executed minimalist travel, everything in your bag serves a purpose, benefits your journey, and pushes you forward. If you ever have to ask yourself, “Why did I bring this item again?” you probably should have never packed it in the first place.

Believe me, I overpacked for years. I used to be the guy who hauled around an 80-liter backpack and was overwhelmed and exhausted daily by the sheer number of possessions I had as I traveled. It wasn’t worth it.

When I say that minimalist travel is the most liberating way to move about the world, it comes from years of experience. By packing less, we free up time, space, energy, and money to experience our journey without any dead weight holding us back.

Now, let’s dive into my up-to-date minimalist packing list for 2024.

Minimalist Travel Bag

Travel Backpack

Ultralight Daypack: Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25

In the world of minimalist travel, it all starts with a personal item-sized backpack . I’m over the moon with my ultralight Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25-liter pack, which is waterproof and weighs a ridiculous 10.7 ounces. Can’t afford to fork out 250 bucks? Check out the Matador Freerain28 .

BUY ON ZPACKS

Minimalist Packing Essentials

Wallet/Purse

Passport/Visa

Cash/Credit Cards

Insurance Documents

Copies of Passport/Visa

Do-it-All Cell Phone: iPhone 13 Pro

A smartphone should be a key cog of anyone’s travel packing list. My iPhone 13 Pro has a ton of storage (512 GB), a fast processor, an incredible camera, and a beautiful display. Yes, it’s one of the pricier smartphones out there, but I got a considerable discount buying refurbished.

BUY ON AMAZON

Black Slimfold soft shell minimalist travel wallet

Minimalist Wallet: Slimfold Soft Shell

There’s no room for gigantic, bulging wallets in minimalist travel, so keep it simple. The Slimfold Soft Shell wallet does everything you’ll ever ask of it while never being a bother. It’s RFID-blocking, waterproof, and super comfortable to carry. Did I mention it weighs half an ounce?

BUY ON SLIMFOLD

Worn Clothing While In-Transit

Sweatshirt: American Giant

I almost always travel in a sweatshirt, even when visiting a warmer destination. I love its coziness in airports, airplanes, trains, lounges, and other environments with heavy air conditioning. My sweatshirt is a bit bulky, so it never goes in my backpack.

BUY ON AMERICAN GIANT

Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince

If you bump into me while I’m traveling, chances are I’ll be wearing a Wool&Prince tee. These shirts are soft, comfortable, odor-resistant, and fit my frame well. They stay smelling fresh even after several days of use in a row. Thanks, merino wool!

BUY ON WOOL&PRINCE

Dark blue Outlier Slim Dungaree travel pants

Do-it-All Travel Pants: Outlier Slim Dungarees

I only bring one pair of pants when I’m minimalist traveling, so they’d better be top quality. My drawers of choice are from a fabric-obsessed NYC-based brand called Outlier. In their words, “If you only own a single pair of pants, these are the ones.” They’re a splurge, but worth it.

BUY ON OUTLIER

Lems Primal Zens barefoot zero drop shoes

Versatile Shoes: Lems Primal Zen

My style of travel — lots of hiking, exploring, and city strolling — calls for a durable and versatile set of shoes. To meet all of these needs, I chose the Lens Primal Zens. These zero-drop shoes can handle the gym, backcountry, sidewalks, and everything in between.

BUY ON LEMS

Baseball Hat: Proof Rover

Like many minimalist travelers, I can’t be bothered with styling my hair every single day. For that reason, I always travel with a trusty baseball hat. The stylish and versatile Rover allows me to get up and go without looking into a mirror first.

BUY ON HUCKBERRY

Retro Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes

I’ve tried other sunglasses brands but always keep returning to the Knockaround Fast Lanes. They’ve got a classic look, polarized lenses, and ring in around 30 bucks. They elevate my minimalist travel swagger but don’t break the bank.

BUY ON KNOCKAROUND

Breathable Underwear: Mack Weldon

Comfortable underwear is oh so crucial in the world of minimalist travel, and that’s why the Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Briefs are my new favorite undies for the road. They’re exceptionally soft and wick away moisture, keeping the stink of travel at bay.

BUY ON MACK WELDON

Super-Comfortable Socks: Darn Tough Crew

I’m a sock snob. That’s why I’ll only buy Darn Tough brand socks, even if they cost $20 a pair. They’re expertly crafted from an ultra-comfortable Merino wool blend, and each pair comes with a lifetime guarantee, though they’re so durable you may never need to use it.

BUY ON DARN TOUGH

Black and brown Perry Ellis reversible belt

Reversible Belt: Perry Ellis

I used to sport an Arcade Ranger stretchy belt, but it was a little too stretchy, and my pants would slowly start to sag as the day wore on. I recently switched to this reversible leather belt that still allows some stretch but just the right amount.

Packed Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

Button-Down Shirt

T-Shirts (3)

Athletic Shorts

Underwear (2)

Packing Cubes

Man wearing a blue Japanese Oxford button-down shirt

Button-Down Shirt: Everlane Japanese Oxford

Though I’m a t-shirt guy through and through, I always bring a button-down shirt for fancier occasions. This is my favorite shirt of its kind in my at-home wardrobe, and thus, it has earned a spot in my backpack. It fits perfectly, looks great buttoned or unbuttoned, and has held up for years.

BUY ON EVERLANE

Man wearing a blue Wool&Prince merino travel tee

Well, hello again, incredible Wool&Prince Merino wool t-shirt! I usually pack an extra one of these when I’m traveling to stay fresh and switch up my color schemes as needed. As I mentioned earlier, these rarely trap odor, so they can be worn for days on end without raising a stink.

Performance Tee: Bluffworks Threshold (2)

Though I love my Wool&Prince tees, I’d rather not beat them up when working out, having a beach day, or going on a rigorous hike. That’s where my Bluffworks Tresholds come in. They’re made from polyester and elastane and are meant for high-intensity activities.

BUY ON BLUFFWORKS

Black gym shorts for travel, gym, swimming, and more

Versatile Athletic Shorts: Olivers All Over

I throw on my All Overs when washing my travel pants or need something to wear while working out or swimming. They’re comfortable, can be worn out on the town, and take up barely any space in my bag. They make my minimalist wardrobe all the more versatile.

BUY ON OLIVERS

Breathable Underwear: Mack Weldon (2)

I’m addicted to my Mack Weldons; they’re the only underwear I ever want to wear. When minimalist traveling, I cycle between three pairs of these and wash them frequently. I can stretch their usage an extra day or two between washes if needed.

Super-Comfortable Socks: Darn Tough No Show (2)

When I find a product I love, I sing its praises. That said, my Darn Toughs are so delightful — so utterly comfortable — that I will give you some advice: buy these socks . When traveling, I bring one pair of crew socks and two no-shows. I wash them regularly, usually by hand.

Packing Cube/Shoulder Bag: TOM BIHN

In the world of extreme minimalist travel, real estate inside my bag is at a premium. To maximize the space, I use a packing cube to store my clothing. My functional TOM BIHN cube also doubles as a shoulder bag when used in conjunction with a shoulder strap.

BUY ON TOM BIHN

Optional Cold and/or Rainy Weather Clothing

Winter Jacket

Rain Jacket

Long Underwear

Lightweight Down Jacket: Arc’teryx Cerium LT

For cold-weather trips, a packable down jacket should be part of every minimalist traveler’s arsenal. I travel with my trusty Arc’teryx Cerium LT, which weighs 10 ounces and packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. It keeps me toasty warm into temperatures well below freezing.

Wrinkly Montbell Versalite ultralight rain jacket

Ultralight Rain Jacket: Montbell Versalite

If I plan on hiking or visiting a wet climate, a rain jacket is an essential part of my minimalist packing list. Weighing only 6.4 oz, the Montbell Versalite is incredibly lightweight and packable and has become my rain jacket of choice. It’ll always have a spot in my bag.

READ MY REVIEW

Long Underwear: Patagonia Capilene

If the weather on my upcoming trip is chilly enough to pack a down jacket, I’m also packing my long underwear. I bring the ultra-packable 5.3 oz Patagonia Capilene bottoms to insulate my lower half on my adventures to cold-weather destinations.

Man wearing a camo merino wool head covering

Multifunctional Headwear: KUIU Ultra Merino

Neck warmer, bandana, face mask, beanie – this KUIU Ultra Merino Buff can transform into whatever type of headwear I need. It takes up zero space in my pack and is far more versatile than a typical lightweight winter hat. It’s a minimalist traveler’s cold-weather dream.

BUY ON KUIU

Computer, Photography & Other Tech Gear

Laptop Case

Bluetooth Keyboard

Bluetooth Mouse

Laptop Stand

Camera + Lens

Camera Case

Camera Clip

Travel Adapter

MacBook Pro 14 laptop for travel and digital nomad

Laptop: MacBook Pro 14

I know a laptop is so not ultra-minimalist, but I’m a travel blogger and rely on my computer to make a living. For now, it’s an essential part of my weeklong minimalist travel packing list. I’ve considered switching it out for an iPad Pro, but I’m not there yet.

Laptop Sleeve: tomtoc 360°

I rely dearly on my laptop and must keep it protected at all costs. This well-padded, water-resistant case shields my computer from the harsh rigors of travel and fits perfectly into the back mesh pocket on the outside of my Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25 backpack .

Black foldable laptop stand for travel and remote working

Laptop Stand: Roost

I’ve been dealing with a herniated disc in my lower back recently, and this super lightweight and portable laptop stand has been a godsend. It raises my computer to eye level, reduces hunching, fixes my posture, and takes the strain off my back.

Bluetooth Keyboard: Apple Magic Keyboard 2

Since I use a stand to elevate my laptop, I need a Bluetooth keyboard so I don’t have to reach up to my computer to type. Though there are slightly more compact options on the market, my Magic Keyboard is a comfortable clone of my MacBook’s keyboard.

Bluetooth Mouse: Apple Magic Mouse

My old Keychron mouse broke, so I ran towards the brand I trust regarding computers. This mouse has been excellent for me and has stood up well to life on the road. What can I say? I love Apple products, and they all work seamlessly together.

Black Fujifilm X-T4 camera and a 16mm lens

Lightweight Travel Camera + Lens: Fujifilm X-T4

A camera isn’t necessary for most minimalist travelers since most cell phones take great photos. That said, I’m about to dive into YouTube soon (gulp), and I recently purchased this camera and lens . Expensive? Yes. The best mirrorless camera kit at its price point? Also yes.

Mini Tripod: PEDCO Ultrapod 3

What good is a fancy vlogging camera if you don’t have something to hold it steady? Though it’s a bit diminutive, this is the tripod I’ll pack when I start earning my chops as a videographer. It only weighs a few ounces and will stash away easily in my pack.

Mini Microphone: Rode VideoMicro

A badass camera deserves a worthy microphone. Though this compact little fella won’t capture audio as well as some of the higher-end options on the market, it has done a respectful job for me in the past. It only weighs a few ounces and packs away unnoticed.

Nitecore SCL10 power bank/high-CRI photography light

Power Bank/Camera Lighting: Nitecore SCL10

Minimalist travelers love items that serve multiple purposes, which is why I’m ecstatic I found the Nitecore SCL10. It’s both a 10,000mAh power bank and a high-CRI lighting unit in a compact package. It’ll charge my gadgets while in transit and provide lighting when I’m filming.

Ultralight Camera Case: HMG Camera Pod

It’s not easy to find a lightweight yet protective camera case, yet here we are. As an ultralight backpacking gear nerd , I’m familiar with Hyperlite Mountain Gear and their super-light and innovative products. I recently stumbled upon this space-age camera case that weighs only a couple of ounces.

BUY ON HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR

Minimalist Camera Clip: Peak Design Capture V3

If you’re a minimalist traveling with a camera, and this clip isn’t part of your packing list, you’re doing it wrong. This ergonomic and lightweight clip allows you to stash your camera safely on your belt, backpack strap, or any other number of convenient places. It’s incredible.

BUY ON PEAK DESIGN

Apple AirPods Pro earbuds for minimalist travel packing list

Lightweight Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro

I used to travel with cheap $10 Panasonic headphones until I tried out my friend’s AirPods Pros. Now, I can never go back. These little beasts pump out the best sound of any headphones I’ve ever owned and have three different settings to control the amount of external sound that comes in.

Small black JBL bluetooth travel speaker

Compact Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Go 3

As much as I adore my AirPods, I always pack a speaker to play tunes in my Airbnb, hotel room, or at the park. My compact little JBL Go 3 is waterproof, has a solid battery life, and can get surprisingly loud. This is the most “luxury” item that I travel with.

Lightning charging cable and MacBook pro charging cable

Charging Cables : Apple

No, these aren’t the most exciting items on my packing list, but they are some of the most necessary. They help keep my precious MacBook Pro, iPhone, and AirPods charged, and I’ll never take them for granted. To juice up my camera, light, and speaker, I use this tiny 6-inch USB-C cable .

Wall Adapter : Anker 735

As far as I know, this is about the lightest adapter on the market that’ll charge my MacBook Pro. It’s far smaller than anything I’ve used in the past and has come in handy during domestic and international travels. It has one micro-USB port and two USB-C ports.

BUY ON EBAY

Minimalist Travel Toiletry Kit

Toiletries Bag

Dental Floss

Glasses/Contacts

Contact Solution/Case

Ear Cleaner/Swabs

Nail Clippers

Medications

Multivitamins

Black ultralight ditty bag with seam-sealed zipper

Toiletries Bag: UltraLite Sacks

No, this ditty bag (Regular size) isn’t advertised as a toiletries kit, but it works perfectly for my current travel hygiene needs. It’s lightweight, durable, waterproof, and fits like a glove inside my pack. I use an ultralight trail wallet and a small zippered pouch for extra organization inside.

BUY ON ULTRALITE SACKS

Mini Dr. Bronner's biodegradable lavender soap

Biodegradable Liquid Soap: Dr. Bronner’s

Dr. Bronner’s is the perfect minimalist travel soap. Why is it so special? For starters, it’s a liquid soap, making it extremely easy to travel with. It’s highly potent and has 18 different uses: body wash, dishwashing liquid, and laundry soap, to name a few.

Minimalist bamboo toothbrush for toiletries

Bamboo Toothbrush: SeaTurtle

This isn’t the exact bamboo toothbrush I use, but life goes on. So, why do I use a bamboo toothbrush when I travel? For starters, it’s a far more environmentally responsible choice than using a traditional plastic toothbrush. It works just as well and is entirely biodegradable.

Travel-Sized Toothpaste: Tom’s

The Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap I mentioned earlier can be used to brush your teeth, but I’ve tried that before and I’m just not feeling it. That said, Tom’s makes toothpaste full of high-quality ingredients that are good for your body and the environment.

Plackers Micro Mint flossers for dental hygeine

Flosser Sticks: Plackers Micro Mint

Traditional floss can get tangled, grimy, and messy during travel, so I bring these handy flosser sticks instead. They’re washable and reusable and make flossing your teeth quick and convenient. Two or three of these should be all you need for a week of minimalist travel.

White stick of bergamot + lime Schmidt's travel-sized deodorant

All-Natural Deodorant: Schmidt’s

My search for an all-natural deodorant that can stand up to the rigors of travel seemed hopeless until I came across Schmidt’s. This stuff keeps my B.O. at bay and smells excellent. It also comes in a compact .7-ounce travel-size, which frees up a lot of space in my toiletries kit.

Ear Cleaner: Mudder Ear Pick

Traveling with a ton of pesky q-tips is annoying, wasteful, and inefficient. That’s why a metal ear pick will always be a part of my minimalist packing list. It’s compact, easy to clean, and healthier for ear hygiene than traditional q-tips.

Pink and yellow earplugs for airplanes and hostel rooms

Noise-Deadening Ear Plugs: Howard Leight

Earplugs are one of the most underrated travel items that exist. They’re like a mute button for the constant annoyances of travel. Screaming baby on an airplane? Loud party outside of your hotel room? Snoring in the bed next to you? Pop these in and enjoy the sweet silence.

Other Personal Items

Water Bottle

Travel Journal: Moleskine Soft Cover

Whenever I travel without a journal, I feel naked, and I’m a hell of a lot less productive. But when I do bring my journal, I use it to take notes, make to-do lists, and recap my days. When my memory fails me one day, I’ll have my Moleskines to pore over and relive my glory years.

Waterproof Pen: Fisher Space Bullet

A durable travel journal deserves a reliable pen that will get ink on the paper under any circumstances. For me, that pen is the Fisher Space Bullet, which can write underwater, in extreme temperatures, and at any angle. This pen is sleek, timeless, and minimalist.

Blue titanium Snow Peak Aurora ultralight water bottle

Titanium Water Bottle: Snow Peak Aurora

Staying hydrated while traveling can be difficult, so I bring an ultralight titanium water bottle everywhere I go. This bottle is a joy to travel with and a testament to perfectionist Japanese engineering. It’s expensive, but I’m a gear nerd and couldn’t help myself.

BUY ON SNOW PEAK

Minimalist Travel Packing List Variations

Ready to travel with way less?

Great, because I’ve given you the exact packing list I use for minimalist trips of a week or more. I don’t pack the same way for every trip, though, so here’s a brief overview of my setup and a few variations depending on my type of trip.

Note: None of the following weights include the ‘in-transit clothing’ I wear while traveling.

Weight of Backpack : 19.0 lb | 8.6 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list, including cold-weather clothing. I can travel in cold climates, take professional-quality photos and videos, and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 17.5 lb | 7.9 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates, take professional-quality photos and videos, and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 13.7 lb | 6.2 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, and carrying case. I can travel in cold climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 12.2 lb | 5.5 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 16.1 lb | 7.2 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my camera equipment. I can travel in cold climates and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 14.6 lb | 6.6 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my camera equipment and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm weather and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 10.8 lb | 4.9 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and camera equipment. I use this setup for cold-weather adventures when I won’t need my computer or camera.

Weight of Backpack : 9.3 lb | 4.2 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my cold-weather clothing, laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and camera equipment. I use this setup for mild-to-warm-weather adventures when I won’t need my computer or camera.

Remember this as you review my packing list: What works for me might not work for you.

Want to bring along your favorite pair of sandals? Do you think Bluetooth speakers are entirely unnecessary? Don’t want to bring your camera? Great! Bring what’s essential for you and leave everything else behind.

And if, after reading over this packing list, you’re convinced that minimalist travel will leave you cold, dirty, and underprepared, try it anyway. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how little you need.

Is Minimalist Travel Too Extreme?

Minimalist travel doesn’t come naturally to most people. When traveling, we rely on our possessions for comfort and familiarity, so packing next to nothing can make us feel a bit vulnerable. I get it.

But if minimalist travel were too extreme, I’d never have written this article.

Because choosing to pack only what adds value, and nothing more, is liberating and eye-opening. Less is more in the world of travel, and all it takes is one perfectly-packed minimalist trip to understand why.

So, before your next trip — whether it’s a day, a week, or a year — I challenge you to give minimalist packing a chance. You’ll experience the world light on your feet, with a clear mind and a heavy weight off your shoulders.

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

Noel Krasomil

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

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Packing Lists

The Ultimate Long-trip Packing List

Here’s all the clothing, gear, and accessories you need for your next extended getaway.

Packing Checklist for a Long Trip

Clothing and shoes, accessories.

Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel & Leisure / David Hattan

I spent one year living out of a carry-on suitcase, and if it taught me anything, it’s that I don’t need much else. As a lifelong hoarder — the kind who keeps a stash of shells from beach walks and boxes of boarding pass stubs from every flight I’ve ever taken — it’s been immensely liberating to learn that everything I need to go from a beachy Maldives getaway to hiking Sicily’s Mount Etna and working the grape harvest in France can all fit in a carry-on suitcase.

Packing for an extended trip looks very different from packing for a business trip or weeklong vacation. You’ll need to consider the various destinations and climates you’ll encounter along the way, plus what essentials you won’t be able to get elsewhere (think: prescription medications or your go-to skincare products).

While it pays to be prepared, you typically can buy or borrow most things you’d need wherever you’re off to, so don’t stress over items you think won’t get much use. The goal is to travel as light as possible, making sure every item in your suitcase serves multiple functions and is generally neutral in color to maximize all mix-and-match outfit potential.

Here, I’ve rounded up the fruits of all my packing trials and errors, along with some tips and picks tested by Travel + Leisure editors for what to bring along on your next extended trip. The products that made this list are those that we have found, tested, and rated highly in the T+L lab and in real-world tests, in addition to other products we chose based on in-depth research. Beyond these pieces, remember to always include your general travel essentials, like a passport and any necessary visas or vaccination cards.

One of the easiest hacks for becoming a better packer is to make a list of everything you need and want for your trip — then to nix about half of your wants. You’ll be shocked by how little you’ll miss them when you’re chasing a new adventure every day, but you’ll be grateful to have your essentials on hand in unfamiliar places. The list also makes for a handy reference point for all future travels (it’s a good idea to edit it after a trip, when it’s fresh in your mind which pieces got the most use and which never came out of your suitcase), and it helps ensure you won’t forget anything when repacking.

Read on for everything you need to pack for an extended trip, and learn more about each recommendation below.

Best Lightweight Jacket: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
Best Travel Outfit: Reformation Rou Knit Dress
Best Travel Pants: Everlane the Easy Pant
Best Sneakers: On Cloud 5 Women's Running Shoe
Best Travel Sandals: Sandalup Elastic Flat Sandals
Best Comfy Boots: Blondo Danika Waterproof Bootie
Best Steamer: Steamery Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer
Best Camera: Sony ZV-1
Best Wash Bag: Scrubba Portable Wash Bag
Best Reusable Water Bottle: Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle With Two Lids
Best Hotspot Router: GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot
Best E-reader: Amazon All New Kindle (2022)
Best Packing Cube Set: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
Best Toiletry Bag: Away Large Toiletry Bag
Best Travel Tote: Longchamp Le Pliage Original
Best Daily Sunscreen: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

When packing for a longer trip, focus on lightweight, versatile pieces. Once your list is written out, you’ll be able to see that some items may be superfluous and could be replaced by a piece that does double duty (think swapping short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts for one shirt with sleeves you can roll up or taking an oversized scarf that also works as a shawl and a swimsuit cover-up that doubles as a picnic blanket instead of a single-use sweater). Shoes should be multi-functional as well, ideally able to take you from a day of sight-seeing to a night on the town. I always opt for neutral pieces that I can layer easily — ideally in quick-drying materials. To keep footwear to the essentials, I limit myself to one pair of sneakers, sandals that take me from day to night, and flip-flops that double as shower shoes.

Best Lightweight Jacket

Patagonia women's nano puff jacket.

Hyper-lightweight and easy to pack into its own pocket, Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket easily earned top marks when T+L editors tested 19 packable jackets for women . The minimalist puffer, which is made from recycled materials and comes in seven hues, weighs just 10 ounces, making it an absolutely essential layer for travelers. Despite its sleek profile, it’s packed with 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco, which will keep you warm in shoulder seasons or in cold airplane cabins. It’s also slim enough to layer over or under other items, making it a versatile addition to your year-round wardrobe. During testing, we loved how subtle the packing pocket is — it’s hidden beside the chest zipper — and we found it simple and straightforward to stuff the jacket inside the handy pocket. There’s even a loop on it to hook onto a carabiner or to hang it up.

This jacket would be even better if it also included a hood. Otherwise, it features a range of travel-friendly features that they found incredibly useful, from zippered pockets to keep your hands warm to elasticized cuffs and an adjustable hem that help keep wind and cold weather out.

Travel + Leisure / Sabrina Weiss

Best Travel Outfit

Reformation rou knit dress.

Reformation

This swishy Reformation dress is my go-to for every longhaul flight or train ride. It feels like wearing pajamas but looks incredibly pulled-together, making it easy to head straight from the airport to exploring my next destination. The material is ultra lightweight and cozy and has stood the test of time over the past few years, keeping me company in all sorts of climates as it’s summery on its own but layers well under a chunky sweater. Even if you’re not a dress person, this will change your mind.

Best Travel Pants

Everlane the easy pant.

Looking for a versatile pair of pants that can take you from the airport to a day of sightseeing and dinner with friends? The Easy Pant from Everlane has got you covered. Made from substantial and soft cotton twill with just a touch of elastane, these breathable straight-leg pants are made to move with you. While they’re not adjustable at the waist, we love the pull-on style, and the fact that there’s no drawstring allows you to easily dress these up or down for any occasion.

These were part of a T+L lab test for best travel pants, and we found them incredibly comfortable and easy to style. The pants never felt tight or constricting. Out of the 40 pairs of travel pants tested , these were our favorite lightweight pick. We also loved the many features, including four deep pockets, a soft elastic waistband, and the ease of cleaning. When we tossed these in the wash during testing, we were delighted to see there was no pilling on the pants whatsoever afterward.

Best Sneakers

On cloud 5 women's running shoe.

Made from recycled polyester that’s both antimicrobial and breathable, these sneakers from On are a game changer for travelers. Their lightweight construction makes them perfect for smushing into your suitcase and wandering around a new city, and the bungee-style laces are a dream for slipping these on-and-off at TSA. Out of 41 pairs of walking shoes tested by T+L , these were one of the favorites thanks to their CloudTec Zero-Gravity foam that infuses some pep in every step. One of our editors wore them through the airport on long-haul travel days and found that their feet were less inflamed and tired than usual at the end of the day. We were impressed by the amount of arch support and the molded heel design, which helps keep feet secure while still allowing plenty of flexibility.

While these are our favorite all-purpose sneakers, if you need dedicated running shoes, consider a pair of fashionable yet-functional black Nikes that you can wear for working out and walking around during the day.

Travel + Leisure / Ashleigh Morley

Best Travel Sandals

Sandalup elastic flat sandals.

Top-notch travel sandals shouldn’t take up much space in your suitcase and should be versatile enough to mix and match with most everything you’ve packed. The Sandalup Elastic Flat Sandals earned top pick in T+L testing for the most comfortable sandals out of 50 pairs. They require minimal space when you pack them together and are available in a bevy of vibrant hues to suit your personal style. While the sandals are relatively thin and lacking arch support, they’re still noticeably comfortable — we found them easy to walk in for hours at a time and never noticed our feet getting overheated or sweaty even in the Florida heat. Best of all, the elastic straps adjust immediately to your foot, so there’s no need to break them in. The lack of a buckle or tie to fuss over makes this a boon for travelers in need of a low-maintenance, polished, and budget-friendly sandal.

Best Comfy Boots

Blondo danika waterproof bootie.

We put these boots to the ultimate test as one T+L editor brought them along as the only pair of shoes for a week-long sightseeing trip in Eastern Canada. The risk paid off: our editor found them comfortable enough to wear right out of the box, and they felt broken-in immediately as they navigated the cobbled streets of Quebec City and Montreal. We found that they’re best paired with taller socks to prevent socks from slipping down, and we loved the convenience of their pull-on design, made even easier by the elastic gusset and handy pull tab on the back. Plus, they’re water-resistant! As far as rain boots go, these are some of the chicest we’ve seen — and we tested 28 pairs of comfy boots . We found them versatile enough to throw on with jeans and your favorite band T-shirt or with a dress for a more evening-appropriate look.

Beyond clothing and shoes, there’s some great travel gear that will serve you well on longer trips, from reusable water bottles to portable steamers. The key is to keep things lightweight. Decide what’s easier to bring versus buying on arrival. In most destinations, you’ll be able to purchase, rent, or borrow whatever you may need, but if you’re heading somewhere more remote, make sure to keep these essentials in your carry-on.

Best Steamer

Steamery cirrus 3 travel steamer.

Carrying a portable steamer has been a game changer in my travels. Living out of a suitcase means my clothes are semi-permanently wrinkled, and being able to steam them in seconds ensures I look more put together than I really am. Steamery’s Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer also reduces odors and kills bacteria, which helps me get by on fewer washes with certain items. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, it certainly beats the cost of pressing your clothes at hotels over time, and it’s lightweight enough (1.7 pounds) to be a worthwhile addition to any carry-on.

Best Camera

Sony zv-1 digital camera.

A good camera is a traveler’s best friend, whatever the length of your trip. But the longer the journey, the happier you’ll be to have one that’s lightweight and easily packable — and one that is capable of capturing the highlights of your trip. Sony’s ZV-1 is designed for digital content creators and is ultra user-friendly, with top-tier video capability, 3x optical zoom, and a flip-out LCD screen that helps ensure you get the best selfies every time.

Best Wash Bag

Scrubba portable wash bag.

Why sit around a laundromat when you could be out exploring a new city? While you might luck out with a vacation rental that has a washing machine and dryer, knowing that you can clean your clothes wherever you are offers peace of mind when you’re trying to limit how much you pack. Scrubba’s portable wash bag takes up next-to-no space in my suitcase, weighs just 5.3 ounces, and is perfect for cleaning small-to-medium loads. The patented washboard-in-a-bag technology helps rub stains out of clothes in 1-2 minutes. The best part is that you can also use it as a laundry bag when it’s dry.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Thermoflask double wall vacuum insulated stainless steel water bottle.

The Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle will keep you hydrated on the go, whether you’re sightseeing, working remotely , or on a longhaul flight. At just 1.1 pounds, the 18-ounce model is easy to tote around thanks to its comfortable grip and convenient carrying handle, and the vacuum-insulated, stainless steel coating keeps beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours. This was our best overall pick out of the 26 reusable water bottles we tested — we found that this one was the most durable and convenient to use. We love that it comes with two different lid styles: the chug cap is perfect for travelers looking to sip on the go, plus it’s leakproof, so there’s no need to stress if you need to throw it in your bag, and there’s also a straw lid that delivers a steady flow if that’s your ideal sipping style.

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Hotspot Router

Glocalme g4 pro 4g lte mobile hotspot.

This mobile hotspot is a must for digital nomads and is helpful for anyone who needs stronger internet connectivity in more far-flung destinations. The GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot has a sleek, streamlined design and a proprietary Cloud SIM technology, which allows you to choose pay-as-you-go internet packages in 144 countries around the globe and connect up to 10 devices. The best part? The hotspot comes with one free gigabyte of international data, which you can use over the course of three months.

Best E-reader

Amazon kindle paperwhite.

As someone who spent years packing my personal item with books that I barely made a dent in, carrying an e-reader has helped to lighten my load and allows me more freedom of choice when it comes to picking out what I want to read, when I want to read it. Amazon’s 2023 edition is super compact — just 6.9 by 4.9 inches and 7.23 ounces — making it easy to slip into your purse. T+L editors love this model for its waterproof design and easy-to-read, 6.8-inch display.

Handy travel accessories like compression packing cubes and toiletry bags are great for staying organized on longer journeys, helping you to condense and keep track of your belongings at a glance. Packing a foldable, multipurpose tote not only serves you well on day trips, you can also slip it into another bag in case you do a little too much shopping on the go. These are some of my favorite accessories for longer trips.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

This set of four packing cubes is essential for travelers looking to save space in their suitcase and stay organized on a longer journey by compressing their clothing into individual cubes. T+L editors named Gonex’s Compression Packing Cubes the best overall packing cube out of 23 tested thanks to its sturdy zippers, water-repellent nylon exterior, and resistance to tearing when overstuffed. The packing cubes come in four sizes: extra-large (17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches), large (14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches), medium (11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches), and small (9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches) to pack anything you need.

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

Away’s Large Toiletry Bag holds more than it looks like it would and has ample organizational features to help you keep track of all your travel essentials, from haircare products and makeup to cotton swabs. T+L editors managed to pack in makeup brushes, foundation, a compact mirror, and several toiletries with room to spare during testing, in turn ultimately voting this the best overall toiletry bag of the year. There’s a sleek exterior zip pocket to allow you easy access to your must-haves, plus several interior compartments, including a zippered pouch; two mesh linings; and a clear, cosmetic-style bag. The bag’s water-resistant nylon exterior is smooth to the touch, while the wipeable material that coats the inside helps to prevent dreaded spills.

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

There’s no better foldable bag to keep in your luggage than an iconic Longchamp Le Pliage. I’ve tried everything from tote bags to squishable duffel bags and always come back to this classic for its durability, chic design, near-weightlessness (10 ounces for the large; 7.7 ounces for the medium ), and its two handy internal storage pockets. The bag sits at the bottom of my suitcase in case I overdo it on souvenirs and need extra space, or if I need a place to store a few days worth of clothes but don’t feel like lugging my luggage around on a weekend trip. I’m not alone in my obsession — T+L surveyed its team members, and six different people claimed it as their favorite lightweight travel tote thanks to the bag’s portability, sleek style, and built-to-last design.

Best Daily Sunscreen

Supergoop unseen sunscreen spf 40.

A good go-to sunscreen is crucial for everyday skin protection, especially when you’re changing climates and might be traveling in destinations where the sun is stronger than you’re used to. Supergoop’s cult-favorite Unseen Sunscreen is velvety smooth and absorbs instantly, without leaving any sticky residue. It’s scentless, chemical-free, and boasts broad-spectrum SPF 40 to help protect your face from sun damage. It earned a spot as the best unscented sunscreen out of 24 face sunscreens tested by T+L for its lightweight and pleasant consistency, as well as its lack of white cast.

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Frequently Asked Questions

While the amount of clothing you bring will depend on whether you’re carrying on or checking a bag, a good rule of thumb is to pack one week’s worth of clothing and plan to do laundry. A baseline checklist might include four tops, three bottoms, three pairs of shoes (make sure to have a variety for different activities like sneakers, sandals, and hiking boots), a week’s worth of underwear and socks, plus a hat. From there, adjust to your own needs — maybe swapping a top and bottom for a dress, or adding in one or two workout outfits. Your packing list will also depend on where you’re traveling to and what activities you plan on doing there.

On shorter trips, when you’re less likely to be experiencing major climate swings, you can ditch some of your layers at home. For longer travel, layering is the most crucial thing to keep in mind while packing so that you can jet from place to place without worrying if you have weather-appropriate clothing. Lightweight jackets, scarves, rollable T-shirts, and loose-fitting pants are great pieces that can carry you through all sorts of scenarios on a trip that lasts longer than two weeks.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Sophie Dodd is a T+L contributor with extensive commerce writing experience. As a freelance travel writer, she takes several extended trips throughout the year, and is well-versed in what it takes to pack for a variety of different adventures. Sophie relied on her personal experience as well as testing insights from our editors, who tried out dozens of products in the T+L lab and during their own travels in order to narrow down the best clothing, gear, and accessories worth packing for a long trip.

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TRAVEL TIPS: Packing List for a 1-Week Trip

8 shirts (4 tanks, 4 tops)
1 pair of shorts or skirt
1 dress (if applicable)
socks (take the # of days you'll likely wear socks and add +1)
undies (take the # of days of your trip and add +1)
bras (2 everyday bras, 1 strapless if applicable)
1-3 outerwear (1 jacket, 1 blazer, 1 heavier coat if applicable)
1 pair of everyday sandals or flats
1 pair of nice heels
1 pair of boots
1 wide scarf (doubles as a blanket on the plane)
earrings (studs and dangling earrings in gold & silver)
necklaces (dainty and statement options in gold & silver)
bracelets (lightweight basics in gold & silver)
rings (3 gold & 3 silver)
watch
toothbrush & toothpaste
shampoo & conditioner
body lotion
facial lotion
antiperspirant
monthly "lady" items
curling iron or flat iron
heat protectant
dry shampoo
hair elastics/bobby pins
nail file (disposable type recommended, glass/metal may be confiscated)
foundation primer
eyeshadow primer
eyeshadow palette
eyebrow powder/pencil
eyelash curler
false lashes & lash glue
travel brushes
headphones/ear buds
electronics (laptop, ipad, games, cell phone, etc.)
wallet & ID

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30 comments.

Such a cute suitcase Jen! I'd definitely love packing if I had the same ;) LIVE.IN.LOVE ~

yes definitely roll the clothes! saves a lot of space. i travel a lot too and i always forget one thing yukluistyle

I haven't been folding my clothes for the suitcases for a long time now! Thank whoever first shared the idea of rolling them to save space :). Also, thank you for sharing this! I'm always afraid I've forgotten something when I'm packing for trips. N H Y C♥

My Dad told rolling is a U, S, Navy method.

the bag looks so gorgeous! ♥ http://voyagevoyagelamonde.blogspot.de/

Those packing cubes are so cute! I have a man-like dark blue one I got. But, admittedly, I used it for year long backpacking--not travelling with pretty clothes :)

I love love your suitcase! :) I like to put my clothes in vacuum bag to save space (only if the place I will be staying has ironing facility). I rarely forget things as I list to do a checklist prior to traveling.

Those save so much space! My mom swears by vacuum bags when she travels. :)

Nice tips! I always roll my clothes too and oreo is adorable! atelier zozo

For clothing, I agree with rolling! What I do is lay out a clean pillow case and lay all my clothes on top of each other and then roll it, Soooo much space saving!!!

very useful...bookmark it for future use!

i keep a few different types (snowboarding and international travel) of travel checklists in my evernote app. it even has checkboxes so you can check things off as you type! how many different combinations/looks have you created with the naked basics? or do you do the same look every day when you travel? i like to wear a different color look every day so i can't imagine travellng with something so basic!

I do a lot of neutral looks day to day and it gets me anywhere from no-makeup makeup all the way to a smokey eye with a shimmery contrast (use highlight shimmery shade on the middle of the lid with black to contour). If you like using colors, I would recommend bringing something else in addition but it's so handy to have the basic matte crease, highlight, and black contour shade for any look. :)

Great tips & list! I love making packing lists for travelling lol. so much that my friend will always ask me to help her make one when she has to go somewhere. My weirdest to-pack items are probably a spare rubber band and nail clipper. Somehow, someone will always get a broken nail from lugging the luggage around! lol. Thanks for sharing :) oh, & the tokidoki luggage is too cute!!

OMG YES! Nail clippers and a nail file are so necessary! I've been caught with a hang nail before and it was the worst and super painful.

Ooh great tips, thanks! I'm going to be traveling around Europe over the winter break and I want to travel light so I'll be keeping this post bookmarked :) And I love your suitcase btw. So cute!

Yes! Such a great list! I'm constantly underpacking, which is something I rarely hear. I think it's because I forget so much stuff, and underestimate how many times people want to go out and meet me for dinner/coffee.

Hi Jen, I like your makeup tutorials a lot. As a beginner, I really want to see a tutorial on the make up brushes. I'm having a hard time figuring out when to use which. I think this would be useful for many people like me. Thank you for sharing! Happy holidays!

Thanks! This was so helpful, as I will be traveling this week. Love the packing cubes, too!

Hey Jen! can you please make a tutorial on how to do make-up in 50 years ladies? Can you make a make-up tutorial on your mom, ant? Thank you

Hi Jen! Your color whisperer reminded me of a question. I have a CW myself, in the shade Pin Up Peach. And it was great the first time I used it but I only had it on for an hour or two. But lately I've been wearing it for longer hours and I've noticed that the lip balm color starts concentrating on little cracks on my lips (like the vertical wrinkle-y lines we have on our lips. i don't know if that makes any sense to you or anyone else. lol.) Do you have any tips for these kind of problems? Ps. Love your videos and pics!! And Oreo is just adorable :3

that jo malone nectarine blossom & honey.. smells SO good! :)

Thank you for this list! It is making packing for this trip so easy! http://youarebeaut.blogspot.com/

Thanks Jen, this is super helpful!

Hi Jen! I'm a new subscriber but I have been following you since last year. You are so inspiring. By the way, does the NYX eyeliner dry fast and is waterproof? ;)

Nice packing tips. How this idea came into your mind? Did you heard about Elle18 lip gloss ?

Such a cute bag. I have been constantly looking for such posts as I Have planned 1 week trip to San Francisco with private tours of San Francisco .

Super Helpful! Thanks!

Nail clippers and a tweezer (I hate the stray hair that drives me crazy!). Also hair ties & a hair band for washing my face.

>D I was checking off the list until I got to the "beauty products" and I realized it wasn't for guys >D

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packing list for travel 1 week

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1-Week Packing List for a Carry-on: Travel Lighter Today

Organize your travel light packing list

What to pack for a week-long trip: travel packing checklist

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Travel light packing list for your carry-on suitcase

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Wear your bulkiest clothes

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