women's travel packing checklist

The Complete Long-Term Travel Packing List For Women

Deciding what to take with me when I travel has always been one of my main challenges – and that frustration is why I eventually created my own detailed packing list for travel essentials.

For years I kept changing it. At one point during my nearly  four years of traveling around the world , I noticed that my baggage was getting lighter and lighter.

Within the first few weeks of leaving home, I managed to give away a brand new shoulder strap (expensive), a portable hair dryer (not very useful in a mud hut), and a travel iron (what  was  I thinking!)

And I kept ditching things. Which got me thinking…

Why not get it right the first time? 

So – welcome to my ultimate long-term women’s travel packing list, or, “How to pack for a long trip overseas.” 

I started by making a list (I love lists). My friends borrowed it and started adding and deleting things based on their own travels.

After plenty of trial and error I ended up with the collective wisdom of a large-ish group of well-traveled women.

Of course you’ll want to pick and choose depending on climate, length of trip, terrain, and every other variable – but it’s all here. 

And remember – pack each ‘set’ of belongings (washing, reading, first aid etc) in separate ziplock bags or  packing cubes .

WOMEN ON THE ROAD’S ULTIMATE LONG-TERM TRAVEL PACKING LIST FOR WOMEN

Travel purse or daypack.

When packing for a trip, your first item is something to carry everything in, perhaps a  backpack  or one of the new secure  anti-theft backpacks .

Second, you’ll need something to use during the day. A great accessory is a  travel daypack , which leaves your hands free for photography (or shopping). An alternative is a reliable and stylish  purse or handbag , or one of the practical  anti-theft handbags  which you tend to wear crossbody. (I have two  Citysafe CS200 bags , a beige and a twill: they’re comfortable, safe from thieves, everything within reach, and everything fits. 

And now – what goes  inside  it all!

Travel documents: what to pack

• Plane or train tickets and passes (see here if you’re headed for Europe and need a  Eurail pass )
• Student (yes, mature students can sometimes get these) or senior card
• Health insurance card and contact number (find out why I would NEVER travel without this)
• Requisite travel visas  and extra photos for visas along the way
• Money (a bit of local currency in small denominations is helpful for when you land – you can change more later)
• Other forms of payment including credit cards, debit cards, prepaid credit cards
• International vaccination certificate  if you’re traveling in tropical regions
• Travel journal  or notebook and a glue stick (to stick cards and other interesting things into your journal or notebook)
• Map or map app (these days I’m enjoying maps.me – download them before you go and use to guide you once you’re at destination)
• International driver’s licence  as well as your regular driver’s licence (often required if you’re planning on renting a car abroad)
• Emergency phone numbers, including  embassy contacts  in each country, next of kin contacts, and the address and number of your hotel in case you get lost
• A list of local contacts and friends, tourist offices and anyone else you might want to contact
• Copies of all important papers (and keep them separate from the papers themselves!) via email, printed copy or on a stick
• A postcard of your home town and a couple of family photos (pets allowed) to show people you meet (I like carrying postcards because, unlike a photo on your phone, you can leave the postcard behind!)
• Travel money belt  
• Whatever you need from this  first aid kit checklist

Packing essentials: travel clothes

• 2 pair quick-drying  travel underwear  (if you’re a minimalist – if this is too scary, take more)
• 2  travel bras  (sports bras usually breathe better on long transport segments)
• Bathing suit
• Wrinkle-free washable pants/trousers (with a zipper to turn them into shorts if you like that style and preferably with plenty of pockets) – I stay away from jeans in the tropics: they stay wet forever (if you’re traveling in cities, jeans are perfect if that’s what you usually wear)
• Shorts, if you can’t stand those pants with zippers (as long as you’re not in a conservative country of course)
• Wrinkle-free washable  travel skirt , the longer the better (my friend Gigi swears by the Macabi skirts that turn into pants – I have yet to try one myself)… I use a long-ish Tilley skirt which unfortunately isn’t made anymore
• 2 wrinkle-free washable blouses (one short and one long sleeves)
• 2 pair socks (get special walking socks, not cotton ones! 1 light, 1 heavy)
• 1 pair  hiking sandals  (for beach, town and shower) or walking shoes
• Sarong (you can buy this somewhere along the way as you travel – it makes a great bathrobe, sheet, towel)
• Cold weather clothes , thermal underwear, a lightweight fleece jacket – or something warmer if you’re heading where it’s really freezing
• Large plastic poncho or lightweight waterproof (carrying an umbrella can be cumbersome when you’re on your way from A to B)
• Decorative scarves (to dress up) – or get this great  infinity scarf with pockets  that doubles as a hiding place for your money
• Headband or bandanna to keep cool in the summer heat (just wet it and wear it)
• A flashy travel hat (I have to be honest: I love my Tilley hat!)
• Gobi roll or compression bags/packing cubes ( these  are the ones I use and love)

Personal items for a women’s packing list

• Your travel toiletries list should include things like nail clippers (or file), disposable razor (if you shave), comb or hairbrush
• Small bottle of antibacterial soap (take this on the plane with you)
• Small tube of moisturizing cream or lotion
• Toothpaste, toothbrush
• Dental floss (not only for your teeth – you can slice soft food with it, sew with it, use it to lock things and many other uses)
• Viscose or microfiber  travel towel or towel set  (if your accommodation is more adventurous and towels aren’t being provided)
• Deodorant or talcum powder
• Hair clip or barrette (if you have long hair)
• Tampons or hygienic pads (if you chop off a piece of tampon and pull it apart, it can be used as kindling – it’s an excellent fire starter); a few panty liners and feminine hygiene products you might need
• Baby shampoo (a small bottle – you’ll find this absolutely everywhere – in a pinch you can wash your body and your clothes with it)
• Inflatable sleeping pillow or neck pillow, especially if you’re roughing it
• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Eyeglasses, contact lenses and supplies
• Sunglasses (cheap ones – you’ll probably have to replace them often)
• Sunscreen (although you can easily buy this wherever you travel)
• Cotton earbuds 
• Wristwatch with alarm function (unless you use your Smartphone for this)

Technical travel essentials list

• I never travel without a  flashlight  – a small LED, plus a headlamp (headlamp is particularly useful when walking outside to go to the bathroom at night) or comfortable reading light
• Individual country plug adapters ( this map  will show you what you need, where) or a universal adapter (this is  the one I use  but do your research and read the reviews – not all adapters work in all countries)
• Pens or other writing implements (the  Space Pen  doesn’t leak)
• Foreign language phrase book or app
• A small penknife or  Swiss Army knife  – I have a relatively large one (a gift from a dear friend) but if I were buying one I’d get a smaller version; security won’t let you take it on as hand luggage though…
• Reading book or  Kindle   (I still use mine!) and small clip-on reading light – the Kindle app on your smartphone will do just as well
• Cell phone/phone cards/charger (make sure you pack it in something waterproof)
• Phone card or unlocked cellphone if you’re using local SIM cards
• If you’re not taking a phone you’ll probably need a camera – and don’t forget batteries, charger, spare memory cards…
• Again, if you have no phone you might want to take music (iPod or MP3 player) for those long bus or plane trips; try to avoid wearing earbuds when you’re out and about, unless you really don’t want to meet any new people and experience the country you’re visiting; you’ll also be safer without them
• USB key (use it to keep copies of your important papers and to carry your documents if you don’t want to take a laptop – you can slot a USB into just about any computer)
• and… a good travel laptop if you really really can’t disconnect from work or happen to be location independent

Things to pack for a trip off the beaten path…

• 1 pair  women’s hiking boots /shoes (hang hang them on the outside of your backpack with a climbing carabiner when you’re wearing sandals)
• Ziplock bags
• Water purifier/filter (or tablets) in case of  contaminated water
• 3+ meters of paracord (can be used as a clothesline, to fasten your mosquito net, a sling, a belt, a watch band, a carrier for your water bottle…)
• 2 carabiners (one small, one large)
• 2 safety pins
• Small mirror (can also be used to attract attention)
• Mini-sewing kit (with needle large enough to thread through dental floss)
• Rubber bands
• Rubber doorstop (thanks to Susan Marthaler for this one!) to prevent anyone from getting into your room
• Sleeping bag and sheet  if you’re roughing it (or you can use your sarong as a sheet)
• Small plastic magnifying glass or magnifying plastic sheet (credit card size) – great for reading when your glasses break or to start a fire if the sun is out
• Mosquito repellent  (check out the slow release type for longer protection) but if you’re headed where there’s malaria or dengue, you’ll need a  mosquito tent or net  or, at the very least, some  mosquito repellent clothing
• Deck of cards for those interminable border crossings – you can play with others and don’t have to take your expensive Smartphone out for all to see
• Tin mug (you can eat out of it too) – this may not be one of your essential travel items but when I backpacked across Africa, this turned out to be my one most important possession (I called it Kermit for its froggish green color)
• Sheet of tin or aluminium foil, folded (you can eat off it, drink from it – amazingly useful)
• A small candle and waterproof matches/fire steel/lighter (if you’re away from the city)
• Roll of densely packed toilet paper (or a small pack of tissues) for ‘those’ times 
• Universal sink plug  – for some strange reason, outside decent hotels half the world’s sink plugs have been lost
• Compass (I have a Swiss Army knife with a built-in compass, again, for rural areas)
• A length of duct/duck tape (rolled up tightly around something, like the cardboard tube of a toilet paper roll) – this is amazing stuff for things like repairing your backpack
• Eating utensils
• PLB – personal locator beacon: press a button anywhere in the world and an emergency signal goes out – this is only if you’re heading into what’s left of the uncharted world or traveling on your own away from populated areas
• a partial or full  first-aid kit

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THIS INTERNATIONAL PACKING LIST ON AMAZON

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The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers

In this guest post, solo travel expert Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse shares her tips and advice to help you pack for your next trip abroad.

I know that it can be daunting trying to figure out what to pack for a week, a month, or a year abroad without much — or any — prior experience in the place you aim to visit. I found myself in the same situation eight years ago, but with the benefit of hindsight and over a decade of travel experience, I may have finally figured this female packing list thing out.

I’ve learned that, thankfully, with a few staple items, you can travel just about anywhere without spending a fortune on gear.

The following are my tried-and-true methods and products that, even after years on the road, I still love and use, and make for the ultimate packing list. Feel free to mix and match and take just what you want. Enjoy!  

Tip #1: What Bag to Bring

I am a huge advocate of backpacks, as it gives me the advantage of mobility (trust me, dragging a wheeled suitcase on a staircase is not fun at all!). It’s also great to not have to wait for your luggage at the airport upon arrival!

Many people are afraid that carrying a backpack will take a toll on their backs, but if you have the right one that fits your body, the weight will be evenly distributed and you will be fine! I highly recommend testing out backpacks (with weights in them) in person (REI stores are perfect for that), as everyone’s body is different.

That being said, these are the tried-and-tested staples that I take with me around the world:

• I use a 65L REI bag , which is big enough for all of my belongings, including some hiking gear.
• I use this Pacsafe messenger bag as a day bag, especially for towns like Phnom Penh or Ho Chi Minh City , where drive-by motorbike theft and bag-snatching can occur, or in parts of Europe or South America, where people try to unzip your purse when you’re distracted. There is a wire running through the strap, the colors are not flashy, and it is equipped with hidden pockets that block RFID readers from scanning passport and credit card information. Plus, the zippers lock.
• Packing cubes are the single most important thing for organizing my clothing and compressing my belongings.
• If carrying large cameras and a computer, I bring an electronics backpack with locking zippers, which I wear in the front.

Tip #2: What Clothes to Bring

In Europe, Oceania, or anywhere remote, where you might not be able to find cheap clothing or buy it on the road, bring everything you think you’ll need. These suggested packing lists will help:

Hot Climates

• 5–7 thin and simple tank tops and T-shirts that can easily mix and match with different bottoms
• 2–3 pairs of shorts of varying lengths (avoid denim in humid countries, as it takes a long time to line dry)
• 2 long skirts or dresses
• 2–3 pairs of light cotton pants and/or leggings
• 1 set of sleepwear
• Sufficient underwear to last you at least a week; I suggest 7 pairs of panties, 2 bras, and 2 sports bras
• 2 sets of interchangeable swimwear
• 2 pairs of thin socks and 1 pair of normal socks for hiking
• 1 pair of hiking or running shoes (this post lists the best walking shoes for travel if you need ideas)
• 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals
• A hat with a brim that will shade your face and a pair of sunglasses
• 1 sarong or big scarf when modest dress is called for and cooler evenings

Temperate Climates

• 2–3 tank tops for layering
• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts for layering
• 2–3 T-shirts
• 2–3 tunic shirts or dresses (that will go well with leggings)
• 1 pair of jeans or thick pants
• 1–2 pairs of shorts of varying lengths
• 1–2 pairs of leggings
• 4 pairs of socks: some for sport shoes and some for boots
• 1 pair of boots or closed-toed shoes (wear in transit to save space)
• 1 pair of hiking or running shoes
• 1 pair of flip-flops (jandals, thongs) or sandals
• 1 jacket, preferably something waterproof , for all occasions

Cold Climates

• 3–4 long-sleeved shirts for layering
• 2 thermal shirts (and/or base leggings)
• 2–3 sweaters and/or sweater dresses
• 2 pair of jeans or thick pants
• 2–3 pairs of leggings for layering
• 7 pairs of thick socks
• 1 pair of snow boots
• 1 heavy coat
• 1 pair of gloves
• 1 beanie or winter hat

Tip #3: Toiletries to Bring

I’m happy to report that it’s both easy and straightforward to find shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and soap. Ladies abroad use these things, too!

Pantene and Dove products seem to be universal, and with the exception of a few really off-the-grid places, such as tiny islands and extremely poor areas where people mostly subsistence-farm, you’ll be able to find basic toiletries easily on the road.

My basic toiletry packing list includes the following:

• 1 hanging toiletry bag
• Refillable travel bottles (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face soap)
• Facial moisturizer
• Razor refills
• Extra contacts
• Birth control for the length of your trip (if you take it, or consider monitoring your cycle with a free app like Period and using condoms, which are available almost worldwide)
• A travel first aid kit
• A toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• At least one deodorant
• An eyeglasses repair kit
• Nail clippers
• 1 palette of eyeshadow (though I tend to go makeup-free in hot climates!)
• 1 light powder foundation and bronzer
• 1 eyeliner and mascara

For prescriptions, the ease of traveling with them will heavily depend on what you need and how much you can get up front, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The best way to handle it is to talk to your doctor and insurance regarding how much you can get before you leave and how to best take it across borders.  

Tip #4: Practical Items

• A travel line for drying clothing (in Europe, Oceania, and North America, it’s expensive to wash your clothes at a laundromat, so consider your budget)
• A Diva Cup (a reusable menstrual cup).
• A microfiber towel (plenty of hostels and camping sites will not have towels, regardless of where in the world they are, so bring your own quick-drying one to save money and hassle). Use code “nomadicmatt” for 15% off your purchase!
• A sleeping bag liner , in case you encounter a hostel that is less than clean.
• A sarong for easy covering up for temples or at the beach (you can also buy this on the road).
• A headlamp for camping and as a personal flashlight at night.

Tip #5: Products to Keep You (and Your Belongings) Safe

• The Pacsafe backpack and bag protector is a wire mesh bag that protects valuables if you’re in a place without lockers or a safe.
• A personal safety alarm is a good item to bring along instead of mace or pepper spray, which is illegal in many countries and sometimes not allowed even in checked baggage. It’s small and easy to walk around with, and it makes a very loud noise if you press it in an emergency.
• A lock for lockers, doors, and your belongings when needed.
• COVID considerations: Welcome to the new normal! Bring a mask (or several) to protect yourself and others. It’s also good to wear in polluted cities too.

After years spent traveling the world, these are the staples I pack with me. Even with all that, it’s still possible to pack light, travel with just one big bag, and keep your possessions safe and yourself comfortable. It’s all about having the right essentials and leaving home the stuff that doesn’t serve a purpose during your trip.

I suggest you write down what you think you need — and then cut it in half. You never need as much as you think. Doing this will help you travel light.

Kristin Addis is a solo-female-travel expert who inspires women to travel the world in an authentic and adventurous way. A former investment banker who sold all of her belongings and left California in 2012, Kristin has traveled the world ever since. You can find more of her musings at Be My Travel Muse or on Instagram and YouTube .  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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

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Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

Check the weather at your destination.

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

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

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

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Choose the right luggage.

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

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

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

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

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

Essentials first.

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

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

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

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

Lay everything out.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUT STUFF BACK!

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

Pack it up.

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

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

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

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Pack liquids in secure bags.

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

Utilize shoe space when you can.

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

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

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

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

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

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

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

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

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

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

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

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

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

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

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember to:

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

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Do packing cubes really save space?

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

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

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

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

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

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

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

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

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

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

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

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

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

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About Erin Miller

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

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• Pack Like a Pro: The Ultimate Carry-on Essentials for Female Travellers

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Luggage and organisation, travel pack / packing cubes, daypack / handbag, other organisers, your essential travel safety tips, underwear / sleepwear / swimwear / socks, pants / dresses, head, neck and hand protection, reviewing the manufacturers, accessories, download your free wheel of life template, packing list summary, do you travel with carry-on luggage only, author: sandra rosenau.

Ever wondered how someone can fit their whole life into a carry-on travel pack and travel the world (with no end in sight)? It’s actually not that difficult, even for us women, and once you’ve tried travelling light on a short trip, you won’t want to go back, even when you travel longer.

How do I know? I lugged around a 70-litre backpack on a three-month backpacking trip in 2012, and while this was great to tone my muscles, it wasn’t much fun schlepping this monster around in 30+ degree heat and near 100% humidity. I can tell you, travelling with carry-on is so much more pleasant.

Bellroy Lite Sling Mini

Matador Freerain22 Daypack

MEC Pangea 40 Carry On Travel Pack

MEC Travel Light Packing Cube

Paul and I currently share a Matador Freerain22 Daypack . This is our fourth daypack in 7+ years of travel: We started with a Tortuga daypack . When that broke, we moved to a 16-litre Matador daypack . While the seams were the downfall of the Tortuga, the biggest weak point on the 16-litre Matador was the main compartment zipper. Fortunately, Matador learns from its (early) quality issues: Our subsequent Matador Freerain24 Daypack lasted more than 4 years (the mesh pockets holding our water bottle, snacks, sunscreen and glasses disintegrated in the end).

Like our daypack, my handbag gets used a lot. So, no wonder I’m now onto my third handbag in 7+ years:

• I had a Pacsafe Cruise Anti-Theft All Day Crossbody handbag before we started our location-independent life . But I always found that it hurt my back after a while, as I ended up carrying a water bottle , an Apple iPad Mini and all sorts of stuff in it. It was also far too clunky to take on a night out. So, in 2016, I bought a Pacsafe SlingSafe 100 GII . It still fitted a lot in it, surprisingly. But it was better for my back, looked nicer (especially with a dress) and lasted 4 years.
• I had bought Pacsafe handbags for their security features. So, when it came to replacing the Pacsafe SlingSafe 100 GII (its zipper and the locking mechanism that connects the strap to the bag had started playing up), I first looked at Pacsafe models. In the end though, I went with the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag – a totally different brand that offered similar (yet less obvious) safety features at a very competitive price.
• After 3 years of (almost) daily use, the zippers on the Travelon started playing up. I also found that a (typical) handbag annoyed the heck out of me on travel days and multi-day hikes – whenever I carried my travel pack at the same time. So, in November 2023, I switched to a sling bag: the Bellroy Lite Sling Mini . It doesn’t have the safety features of a Pacsafe or Travelon . But a sling bag – by nature – sits closer to your body (than a typical handbag), thus it hopefully won’t need all those features.

Pacsafe V125 Trifold Wallet

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bag

Zpacks Passport Zip Pouch

I use a stuff sack/compression sack for a number of reasons:

• to keep my smelly and dirty clothes separate from my clean clothes;
• to store wet clothes when I head to the beach or pool for a swim; and
• to protect valuables in our daypack when out and about on the water or in pouring rain. A waterproof bag inside a waterproof bag – just to be on the safe side.

My shopping bag weighs next to nothing and takes up very little room, yet it’s super-versatile. I use it to carry groceries, take the washing to/from the laundromat, and as a personal item in the rare instances I need to reduce weight in my travel pack to stay within airline restrictions.

Having dual citizenship means we travel with three passports – two for me, one for Paul. I like to keep them together in one place and therefore travel with a super-lightweight passport pouch . Do you know which passports we travel on? Check our home page for the answer.

No one can guarantee your safety while travelling. But following these essential tips may reduce your risk and help you stay out of harm’s way on your travels.

When you travel with carry-on only in all four seasons you need to layer your clothes. It’s a simple but very effective trick to travelling light:

• On a hot day, I just wear one layer (not counting my  bra ): a singlet or a t-shirt .
• On a cold winter’s day, I can wear up to six layers (not counting my bra ): a merino singlet , a merino t-shirt , a merino long-sleeve , a merino zipper jacket , my down vest and my rain jacket . This is toasty, guaranteed. Most of the time, five layers are enough (minus the t-shirt or the long-sleeve) – even when skiing in Sapporo .

Allbirds Womens Anytime Thong

Bikini Season Coja Multiway Bikini Top

Bikini season porto cheeky bottom.

Boody LYOLYTE® Triangle Padded Bralette

Macpac Merino Blend Trail Ankle Sock

Macpac Merino Rouleur Sock

Mitch Dowd Crazy Birds Bamboo Boxer

The boxer shorts are not accidentally included here. I do wear them (and have so since the very beginning). In fact, I’m onto my third pair in 7+ years (always the same brand). I combine them with one of my singlets or t-shirts – no need to carry a separate pyjama.

As for socks: I travel with four pairs, alternating between Macpac and Mons Royale . I always purchase socks that are made largely from Merino wool as only those keep my feet warm.

Layers are the key ingredients for travelling light in any season . In my case, these comprise:

• singlets , t-shirts ( short-sleeved and long-sleeved ) and a zipper jacket – all made from Merino wool; plus
• a lightweight vest and rain jacket – both made from technical, high-performance fabrics.

For my merino layers, I have tried many different brands over the years: Icebreaker , Kathmandu , Macpac , Mons Royale – you name it. The best one so far however, has been Unbound Merino (especially when it comes to quality, sustainability and customer service).

Isn’t wool too hot in Summer? you may ask. In our first year on the road, I used technical quick-dry t-shirts made by Nike and Under Armour. These t-shirts started to smell after a while, despite regular washing. Merino wool is naturally odour resistant, and I sweat in them less than in those synthetic t-shirts. I can wear the same merino t-shirt three days in a row, and they don’t stink (no matter how hot it is). Merino wool fabric comes in different weights, and a 150-200g/sqm t-shirt is perfect for any season.

Mons Royale Approach Merino Gridlock Jacket

Unbound Merino Womens Active Merino Tank Top

Unbound Merino Womens Merino V-Neck T-Shirt

Unbound Merino Womens Slim Merino Long Sleeve V-Neck

Our jackets were probably the second most researched items (after our travel packs and before our hiking shoes). Given this was to be my only jacket, it had to be waterproof, ultra-lightweight, durable, long enough to cover (most of) my butt and not look like a potato sack.

Marmot has been leading the pack in product development, and we’ve only had Marmot jackets for the past 7+ years:

• My Marmot Nano AS Jacket lasted three years. I maintained its water-repellent qualities by treating it with waterproofing spray. But at some point, the zipper broke.
• The Marmot Eclipse Jacket was the perfect replacement. Rather than being treated with nasty chemicals to create a water-repellent layer (that needs to be reapplied regularly), the use of EvoDry technology means the fibre itself is water-proof. It is also made 100% from recycled nylon, further reducing the environmental impact of its manufacturing process. I’ve been wearing this jacket now for four years, and it’s still going strong.

While the Eclipse is no longer being made, the Marmot Womens Gore-Tex Minimalist Pro Jacket is very similar. It’s waterproofness is even higher: 28,000mm vs 20,000mm for the Eclipse, and it’s slightly lighter: 343grams vs 349grams for the Eclipse.

Macpac Women’s Uber Light Down Vest

Marmot Womens Gore-Tex Minimalist Pro Jacket

Kühl and Outdoor Research have been my go-to brands for long pants since the very beginning. They fit my body shape perfectly – no alteration required. Likewise, PrAna shorts and capris have been my favourite companions for warmer days and sports activities (including yoga).

Most travel dresses look like potato sacks (at least on me) or come in colours that don’t suit me. Toad and Co’s range of lightweight dresses is huge. They are ethically and sustainably made and always look flattering.

KÜHL Trekr Pant

Outdoor Research Womens Ferrosi Pants

PrAna Halle E-Waist Short II

PrAna Koen Capri

Toad and Co Rosemarie Dress

When it’s sunny, you’ll see me with my (Minimalist Journeys branded) baseball cap, made of 50/50 Bamboo and Recycled PET. I also wear the cap when it rains, as the rim prevents rain from splashing at my glasses. When it’s freezing, I swap my cap for my trusty beanie , and add my buff and gloves . Easy as.

I also travel with a light-weight sarong. Why do I list it here? Because I mostly use it as a shawl around my shoulders (an easy way to add a touch of colour to my black dress on more formal occasions) and as a scarf on extra-cold days. On occasion as a sarong too, but less often.

Buff Merino Lightweight Neckwear

Mons Royale Volta Merino Glove Liner

prAna Stellium Sarong

Unbound Merino Beanie

I only own three pairs of shoes – all of which are light-weight:

• I wear my hiking shoes to hike (obviously) but also on days out around the city, and even when we dine out on a cold day.
• My ballerinas fit perfectly to my dress for more formal occasions (including date nights – yes, we do have those – and weddings).
• My sandals are perfect for summer days out and about, and water sports activities. Though I’ve also worn them indoors on cold floors.

Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Womens Hiking Shoe

Xero Shoes Phoenix

Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV

I have worn Salomon shoes for years and found them most suited to the shape of my foot. I’ve also tried Haglofs Trail Fuse GTX . A great company that makes good quality footwear, but the shoe sadly was too narrow for my (relatively narrow) foot. Go figure.

I also tried Merrell’s well-known Moab Speed GTX – but what a disaster. The shoe looked nice and fitted well when I bought it. But the upper started ripping after only SIX WEEKS of occasional wear around the city (I hadn’t even used them on a proper hike). Even worse though was my absolutely shocking experience with their customer service, which was not only incompetent in handling claims but refused to honour standard consumer warranties (even when contacted by NSW Fair Trading , the Australian organisation intermediating in cases like this). Needless to say: I will NEVER EVER purchase ANY Merrell product again.

We not only review the most suitable gear and business tools that meet our needs and stand the test of time. We also consider how ethically and sustainably a product was made and link to organisations that have reviewed the sourcing practices of manufacturers. 

Running an online business like Minimalist Journeys requires (of course) several devices and applications – we list those in our resources for small (remote) businesses .

The below technology list covers only non-business items – items a normal traveller may take with them on a long trip. All our technology and electronics are best of breed for the purpose we use them for. Also worth noting: The Nitecore battery pack and OneAdaptr OneWorld135 travel adapter/charger are shared between the two of us, but I include them here for completeness’ sake.

Baseus USB-C to USB-C Cable

Nitecore NB10000 Gen2 Energy Brick

Nitecore NU25 400L Headlamp

OneAdaptr OneWorld135 International Adapter

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Toiletries are quite personal, so I won’t list every single item I travel with here. However, what we do make sure is that we

• stay within the 100ml allowance for carry-on, and
• use zero waste products wherever possible.

I keep my toiletries in a large Sea To Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag . I bought mine in 2012, and it’s still going strong, thanks to its 30D Cordura® ripstop nylon fabric. Paul uses the same toiletry bag but in the small size. I wouldn’t be able to fit all my stuff into the small version, but for the few things a man needs, the small one works well.

Coconut Matter Deodorant

Matador Toothbrush Cap

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag

I travel with two towels – of different sizes and for different purposes:

• I’ve had my Hammamas Turkish towel from the very beginning (still the same one). It’s light-weight, doesn’t smell and dries in an instant. Plus it’s super-multifunctional: I’ve used mine as a towel, beach/picnic blanket, wrap dress (on the way home from the beach) and even as an extra blanket when I was cold at night.
• The PackTowl Personal Towel fits perfectly around my head to form a turban after I washed my hair. The towel sucks up the moisture and once removed, my hair air-dries in no time – I haven’t used a hair dryer in 7+ years. It’s my face towel at all other times but has also been used as a hand towel and kitchen towel when needed.

Our water bottle is one of the most important items we travel with. We don’t buy water if we can avoid it. In many places around the world, tap water is perfectly fine to drink. Where (there is a likelihood that) it’s not, we boil water, let it cool down and then fill our water bottle. Water bottles are notoriously difficult to keep clean, not so the (aptly named) Klean Kanteen Wide Water Bottle . Added bonus: Thanks to its loop cap, I can secure it easily to my travel pack or daypack.

Like Paul, I also travel with a spork. Not an item we use daily but are always glad to have – whether on (multi-)day hikes or to avoid single-use cutlery when we buy meals on the road.

Hammamas Towel

Klean Kanteen 27 oz Wide Water Bottle with Loop Cap

PackTowl Personal Towel

UCO Titanium Spork

Only the main compartment of my travel pack can be locked, and for that purpose, I use a Samsonite TSA luggage lock . I don’t mind that the other compartments can’t be locked as they don’t contain any valuables, and I usually have my luggage on me (the benefit of carry-on).

We also travel with a compact first aid kit (about the size of my fist) and a travel sewing kit (about the size of a standard playing card deck) – both of which are shared between us – plus a reusable face mask and a pegless clothes line each (rolled up, about the size of Paul’s thumb). Neither is essential but all are handy:

• First aid kit: if you’re out on a day trip or (multi-)day hike and got a blister or cut your finger preparing a meal – we regularly replenish items we have used (or which are past their use-by date).
• Sewing kit: to fix our gear (think garment holes, loose buttons, broken seams and zippers).
• Clothes line: we prefer to air-dry our clothes (our merino clothes last longer, and it’s better for our environment) – all we have to do is find two opposing points to attach the hooks to.
• Reusable face mask: Ours are made from merino fabric (and Minimalist Journeys branded) – we wear them when we are in crowded places (especially in Asia , where face masks are omipresent).

A key tool for self-awareness and self-improvement, the Wheel of Life helps you assess the various aspects of your life, identify areas of need and prioritise actions to create a (more) balanced life.

Last but not least, there is Egon, my travel mascot. A little soft toy monkey not much bigger than Paul’s fist, he’s been travelling with me around the world since November 1999. Which makes him the oldest item on my packing list !

Travel Packing List For Women

I get asked all the time for a good packing list for women, so I thought I’d share with you my own personal list. This is my master carry-on packing list whenever I travel for 1-4(ish) weeks. I simply tweak the list based on what I know about where I’m headed.

Documents & Bags

• passport + extra photocopy of the front page of your passport
• additional photo ID (such as a driver’s license) debit and/or credit cards
• travel purse
• foldable backpack
• luggage: small carry-on rolling suitcase or travel backpack
• lightweight jeans or pants , 1-2 pair
• dresses or skirts , 1-2
• continue below...
• layering short and long-sleeve tops , 3-4
• cardigans , 1-2 ← These are the best
• thin sweater , 1
• lightweight rain jacket , 1
• socks , 2-3 pair
• pajamas , 1 set
• underwear ← my faves for travel
• scarf or pashmina that can double as a mini blanket
• walking shoes: either tennies or slip-ons
• walking sandals
• ballet flats or booties
• neck pillow
• small umbrella
• water bottle ( collapsible is nice)
• journal & pen
• extra ziplock bags, just in case
• laundry bag
• eye mask ←I use this nightly
• laptop or tablet, if you want to work (or watch something in your room)
• camera + accessories , if you want to go beyond what’s on your phone
• e-reader or book
• power cords for all devices
• travel power strip , if you think you’ll be charging a ton at once
• portable USB charger

Personal Items

Just bring your usual toiletries; there’s no need to bring anything “extra.” Keep in mind that if you carry on, everything needs to be TSA-approved (that means liquids and gels are 3.4 ounces or smaller, then collectively put in a bag one quart or smaller).

• deodorant ←my current fave
• hair stuff ← I use this as my conditioner, hair pomade, and skin lotion
• eyedrops (sometimes the air on flights dries out my eyes) contacts and/or glasses
• feminine products
• essential oils (for travel, I like a digestion blend , a germ-fighting blend , lavender , peppermint , and a citrus like grapefruit or lemon )
• deodorizing wipes (nice on long-haul flights)
• prescription or OTC meds
• melatonin , for easing jet lag
• charcoal capsules , for digestion

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Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe

My introduction to traveling minimally started on my first backpacking trip to Germany, the Czech Republic, and Hungary when I was just 17 years old! Truth be told, half of what I was carrying never got worn or used. Since then, I’ve learned quite a lot and have been working on creating this minimalist packing list for females going abroad!

Of course, your packing list is going to vary immensely based on where in Europe you are traveling, what season it will be when you’re there, and how long you’re going for, but for the most part, the lists below are comprehensive and will ensure you have a successful trip!

Use the table of contents below to direct your search based on the length of your travel. Ultralight travel will include day trips to new cities, overnight travel focuses on weekend trips, and long-term travel will be for trips that are two weeks or longer.

I have also included some helpful minimalist packing tips at the end of this post to answer all of your grueling questions.

I hope this guide makes the packing a breeze for your next European getaway so you can just sit back and focus on all of the adventures yet to come!

Happy Travels!

Get My FREE Ebook! ​ Transformed by Travel: the risks & rewards of backpacking Europe (a life-changing journey)

What should a girl have in her toiletry bag.

Alright, ladies… you can’t bring 3 different mascaras because they “help your lashes” if you’re trying to pack minimally.

This minimalist packing list for females is intended to be just that. MINIMAL . When it comes to toiletries, only back the basics…

This means shampoo and conditioner , deodorant , toothpaste and a toothbrush , chapstick , moisturizer , a razor , some dental floss , face wash , and body wash . You could even go as far as just using the hotel soap as body wash to save your bag even more room.

If you feel like you would really like to have some makeup with you, I get it. I do too! But, only bring along some mascara and maybe one lipstick . Just enough to tie your outfits together and make you look like you didn’t just drag two suitcases off a plane ( am I right? )

Don’t go overboard with palettes of eye shadow, foundation, etc. The truth is you won’t need it, and chances are they’re going to get broken up from all the moving around and spill all over your other products. Been there, done that. Instead, opt to pack minimally !

How do you Become a Minimalist Packing Queen?

When it comes to being the king or queen of packing minimally, it’s imperative that you actually follow this minimalist packing list for females (boys, you too)!

You need to really think about your priority items and make room for them right off the bat. Then, lay out everything else that you might bring and decide if you actually need , or just want the items.

If you can’t think of a definite situation that is guaranteed to happen where you’ll need the item, then don’t pack it. Once you have everything you actually need sorted, then take a look at how much room you have left in your bag .

If you have room leftover, you can consider packing one or two items that you wanted to bring originally or leave the room available for souvenirs, etc.

If you have no room left, then you may want to consider taking out an item or two so you have room for anything you may want to buy while you’re traveling.

It’s a long, drawn-out, “unpack and repack” process, but you’ll be grateful that you didn’t overpack!

Minimalist Packing List for Females: Ultralight Travel

It’s always so exciting when visiting a new city! Paris , London , the countryside of Ireland, no matter where you’re going you can almost guarantee that you’re not going to need much if you’re only traveling for the day.

That’s why I created this ultralight travel packing list ! I want to prevent you from having to go back to your hotel in the middle of sightseeing to grab something you couldn’t carry or from carrying far too much and ending up with an aching back.

Trust me, I’ve done both, and neither are fun and both end in frustration.

So, check out my ultralight travel packing list below and keep an eye out for my special links! If you see something you like that you might want to include on your next vacation, the link will bring you to the right spot (usually Amazon).

To start off this ultralight travel packing list, you’ll need a day backpack . I use the Osprey Fairview 40 and absolutely love it! It has two buckles, one for the chest and a padded one for the waist to keep the weight evenly distributed on your back and hips.

It has plenty of compartments and is large enough to hold everything I need for the day (I’ll tell you more about this below) without being too bulky. The back also has two security straps to deter pickpocketers.

Once you have a good day bag, you’re ready to start packing!

Even if you are only planning on traveling for the day, it’s important to be prepared. Nobody likes having to run back to their hotel room to get a jacket because it got cold outside.

So, follow this list carefully and ensure that whatever day bag you use has the capacity of carrying what you’ll need it to while still being comfortable.

One other thing I want to mention is what resource you get your water from… while many European countries do provide clean drinking water, there are also many who do not.

I love my LifeStraw Reusable Water Bottle because it filters any outside chemicals, bacteria, and other stuff you definitely shouldn’t be drinking. It allows me to omit buying single-use plastic water bottles and brings me ease of mind knowing I won’t get sick from filling up my bottle in a hotel sink if I need to.

Even if you aren’t traveling to Europe, this water bottle is great to have no matter where you are in the world!

Minimalist Packing List for Females: Overnight Travel

Have you ever decided to book a long weekend trip and then realized you only knew how to pack for either one day or one week? Me too!

I would either end up re-wearing the same clothes for two of the days or I would end up carrying 4 pairs of shoes for a 3-day trip. But, luckily, I have finally found the perfect in between overnight packing list for females that I’m sure you’ll find useful on your next weekend getaway!

The list below focuses on packing for a European destination in the spring, summer, or fall for a long weekend. Of course, you may need a warmer jacket in the fall than in the summer, but you’ll still need a jacket nevertheless.

Bear in mind when you will be traveling and check the weather before you leave for your trip.

Now, you may be thinking, “ what about my hair styling tools?! ”

Forget about them . Most hotels provide a hairdryer and you won’t need a hair straightener or a curling iron if you’re trying to pack minimally. They take up a lot of room in your bag, add a lot of weight to your back, and are often only used once or twice over the weekend. So, leave them at home!

Also, if you are traveling with any medical prescriptions, you may need to have a doctor’s note to accompany the bottle. In most cases, all of the information that TSA will need will be listed on the bottle itself, but for some, a doctor’s prescription and approval for travel will be required.

As for the battery pack, I use this Ultra Compact Portable Charger .

It’s lightweight, has a very long-lasting battery so you can charge while on-the-go without having to worry about it dying quickly, and has several charging ports so you can charge your phone and camera (if applicable) at the same time.

Minimalist Packing List for Females: One Week Travel

Many of my trips started out around 4 days (2 days per city) and then gradually grew over time to one week, and I have found that this has been the easiest to pack for.

One week trips became the most common for me as I started traveling abroad more and more, so this is where I found myself almost always having the right items with me. I got really good at estimating exactly what I would need for the trip and figuring out how long I could go without doing laundry… but still have clean clothes.

If that doesn’t make sense to you yet, don’t worry, it will! The more trips you go on, the more this will make sense.

I’m excited to offer you this list since I have been editing it for years and it is finally ready to be shared! Keep in mind, you’ll still need to pay attention to your destination, the season, and the weather before packing.

Also, if you enjoy buying clothing as souvenirs when you’re on the road, be sure to keep some space open for things that you buy.

For example, if I know I’ll be traveling for about 2 weeks and will need 5 or 6 t-shirts, I’ll only pack 4 and then buy one while traveling.

This not only gives you an excuse to buy an awesome souvenir but also ensures that you’ll have the room available to bring it back with you!

Similar to the overnight travel packing list, this week-long travel packing list doesn’t include any hair styling items.

If you absolutely need them, try to choose just one and remember that most hotels have hairdryers in the room. If you are traveling with someone else who also uses the item or product, ask if they would be willing to share it with you so you don’t end up traveling with two of the same thing.

The items above are what I would bring along for a week-long trip to Europe in the shoulder season months. But, if you’re traveling in the dead of summer , you will probably want another bathing suit and you can omit one of the sweaters (not both!)

Minimalist Packing List for Females: Long Term Travel

When I first started my long haul backpacking trips, I was carrying a 65-liter Osprey Backpack on my back that nearly ended my trip early… I truly thought I needed everything in my wardrobe and I couldn’t survive without “the essentials”.

Don’t get me wrong, I truly love that backpack for hiking and shorter trips (one-week trips were perfect!), but carrying it for weeks on end was not enjoyable.

Not to mention, it never fit above my head or under the seat on trains or buses, so I always had to keep it on my lap. Not exactly how I pictured my trip going…

If this sounds familiar to you, I’m sure you’re wondering what you should ** actually ** include in your minimalist packing list for females.

Check out the list below and cross-check what I’ve mentioned and what you have. I’ve made it super simple and included links for company-specific items that have changed my traveling for the better, and that I think will do the same for you!

The packing list above has been created for trips taking 2 weeks or longer . Now, you’re probably starting to realize that it’s not super different from the one-week packing list, and that’s because it would be impossible to carry 14+ different outfits with you while traveling.

If you’re trying to pack minimally, chances are you won’t be checking a bag on your flights. So, in order to do that, you won’t be able to pack enough different clothing for 2+ weeks of traveling anyway!

Instead, you’ll need to find accommodations that have laundry services available.

Trust me when I say that spending the few extra dollars it will cost you to do laundry is far better of an option than carrying around two weeks worth of belongings everywhere you go!

Minimalist Packing Tips

Whether this is your first time attempting to pack minimally or your hundredth, there are a few tips I want to share with you that might make your packing experience go a little bit easier.

✔️ First off, use packing cubes .

I personally love my Veken ones since they come in fun colors and are a bit more durable than other brands. They also provide a shoe bag to prevent your dirty shoes from touching your clean clothes!

Packing cubes make it super simple to keep your clothes and shoes neat and orderly. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I haven’t used packing cubes and my clothes ended up in a jumbled mess on the floor of a hotel room…

✔️ Next tip, roll your clothes before putting them in your packing cubes.

This saves space and prevents them from getting wrinkled.

✔️ Also, try to plan out your outfits ahead of time.

You might be asking yourself, “how am I supposed to know what I’ll want to wear each day?”, and the good news is you don’t have to! Simply create the outfits ahead of time, then mix and match when you get there.

Keep in mind that if you’re traveling for 7 days, you won’t need 7 pairs of pants. Simply choose 2 or 3 pairs that work well with your tops.

This will help you to prevent overpacking and will save you time when getting ready each day.

✔️ Also, pack your toiletries in these TSA-approved reusable bottles .

They’re refillable, easy to clean, and you can always guarantee they’re not going to get thrown away at security for being over the ounce limit.

✔️ I also use one of these clear TSA-approved travel bags so I don’t have to waste a quart-sized plastic bag whenever I travel.

✔️ If you must pack a pair of larger hiking boots or a winter jacket, wear them on the plane.

Yes, it will be a pain to take everything on and off going through security, but it will save you loads of room in your bag and can even save you from getting charged for your bag being over the weight limit.

✔️ Lastly, simplify your lifestyle.

I know that is easier said than done, but you don’t need two different types of shampoo, several different brands of mascara, or several different hair brushes for styling.

These things may be convenient and enjoyable to use at home, but I promise they will only add to the weight on your back and will likely end up getting forgotten about when they fall to the bottom of your bag.

Instead, focus on the adventures that lie ahead and don’t get caught up in always looking your best while traveling because, to be frank, other travelers truly don’t care what you look like!

Other Items To Consider Bringing With You

Depending on how long you plan on traveling for and if you plan on doing some backpacking (solo or with someone else), there are some other useful items that I can recommend to you!

• A Diva Cup – BPA-free reusable menstrual cup
• Travel-Sized First Aid Kit – fits easily in any bag or purse and is good for on-the-go first aid
• Hanging Toiletry Bag – is stylish and keeps everything up off the floor or counters (perfect for when staying places that may not be so clean)
• Himawari Backpack – I LOVE this backpack. It’s simple, affordable, stylish, durable, and has a built-in charging station for my phone on the inside. It also has plenty of compartments that can hold my laptop and important travel documents. If you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable day bag then this is it!
• A Safety Lock – an extra line of security to deter pickpockets and to lock up a locker or door when traveling solo

I hope this minimalist packing list for females helps guide you to a more enjoyable and relaxing vacation with everything you need for a successful trip!

During times of Covid-19, you will also need to remember to travel with masks and possibly proof of vaccination and/or a negative Covid-19 test result. To check your destination’s travel requirements, click here .

Other Helpful Resources

✔️ European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month ✔️ Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips ✔️ The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: 101 Experiences to Have in Europe ✔️ The Top 40 Hidden Gems in Europe To Visit in 2024 ✔️ How to Plan a Trip to Europe in 9 Easy Steps (with Sample Itineraries!) ✔️ 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December ✔️ 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2024 ✔️ 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in March 2024 ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2024 ✔️ Is Azerbaijan in Europe? The Facts for 2024 ✔️ Is Norway in Europe? Norway & the EEA EFTA States ✔️ Is Denmark in Europe? The EU, the Danish Krone, & Its Territories Explained

And if you made any purchases through the links I have provided, thank you! I may make a small commission off of these purchases, but there will never be any extra cost to you.

I only recommend items that I personally use and have enjoyed along my travels, so don’t worry, I wouldn’t try to sell you anything not worth buying.

As always, happy travels! Emily

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Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

• Packing Lists

The Carry-On Only Packing List for Women

Published February 1, 2023

Written by:

Jenn Sutherland-Miller

Jenn raised 4 children while traveling full-time for more than a decade– it’s called worldschooling and it’s awesome. Jenn has...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

There are endless options in the clothing department. Everyone will have her particular favorites that end up being go-to travel pieces. As a rule of thumb, if you wear it at home, you’ll wear it while you’re traveling.

Sometimes, women have a reputation for overpacking. For some of us, that’s well deserved, but we all know that men overpack too. Are you ready to buck the stereotype, increase efficiency in travel, and enjoy saving time, money, and energy by learning to pack lighter?

Ladies, these packing tips are for you. No matter where you’re traveling, use this packing list for women to make sure you have everything you actually need–without bringing half your closet.

Bring everything you need without checking a bag.

• Carry-on-sized
• Comfortable to carry
• Easy to pack
• Built to last

Quick Tips for Packing Light

At first the idea of packing in only a carry on   travel backpack  can seem daunting, but I assure you it’s not. Once you see how much space 45L actually is, you’ll realize that you’ve got plenty of space to  bring everything you need for a whole week;  longer, actually.

The basic principles of packing light, for carry on only, are as follows:

• Choose the right (sized) bag
• Add organizers (and use them!)
• Pack only what you need
• Invest in multi-purpose items
• Take advantage of airline personal item allowances
• Wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane
• Limit yourself to two pairs of shoes
• Stuff your bag’s pockets

Carry-On Packing List for Women

No matter where you’re going, ladies can use this packing list as a starting point. Once you have an idea of what to put in your bag, we’ll go over tips on how to develop a travel wardrobe you love, pack light, and ways to adjust this list for different types of travel.

Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories

Most experienced travelers pack the same basic wardrobe, no matter where they’re going. Of course if you’re traveling in winter, you’ll add warmer things. And in a warm climate you’ll swap out pants for a sundress. But the basics of what you pack don’t change that much from trip to trip. Layer up, focus on items you love wearing, and pack the following clothes:

• 1 long sleeved shirt, sweater, or blazer (for business trips )
• 1  jacket
• 2-3 bottoms
• 1 dress (if you bring a dress, bring one less pair of bottoms or top)
• 2-6 pairs of  underwear , depending on your trip length
• 2-6 pairs of  socks , depending on your trip length
• 2-3  bras  (sports bra and everyday)
• 2 pairs of shoes
• 1-2 swimsuits, depending on your destination
• 1 set of PJs
• 1 set of workout clothes
• Scarf, shawl, or sarong — especially for more conservative destinations

Toiletries and Makeup

Like your travel wardrobe, you’ll also want to simplify and shrink your makeup, toiletries, and beauty products when you’re on the road. Decant bigger bottles into travel-friendly bottles. Swap liquids for more compact and TSA-friendly bars and powders. And, even if you love makeup and have a seven-step skincare routine, stick to the essentials.

• Shampoo (a bar shampoo is easier to pack)
• Conditioner
• Basic face makeup (foundation, concealer)
• Makeup essentials (lipstick, eyeliner)
• Travel-sized bottle of hair product (if you use it)
• Feminine hygiene products

Electronics and Travel Essentials

Even if you made sure not to forget that one red lipstick that makes you feel like a badass babe, you’re also going to need to pack the following travel essentials:

• Passport or ID
• Water bottle
• Healthy snacks
• Travel pillow
• Travel blanket or blanket scarf
• Laptop or tablet (optional)
• Adaptor (if going international)

Light Packing Tips for Women

Now that you know what to pack, here are some tips on how to pack it all smartly.

Choose Your Travel Day Outfit Strategically

The first rule of travel day, especially when traveling carry on only, is to wear the bulkiest items you’re taking. This means your heaviest shoes, jeans and chunkiest sweater. Beyond that, there are some considerations for choosing a travel day outfit to that is both stylish and comfortable to wear on the plane and beyond.

What makes a good travel day outfit? Look for a combination that is:

• Comfortable
• Pays attention to detail

Layering is a good idea on travel days, because we all know that feeling of freezing in the airport air conditioning and then sweltering while we wait after boarding the plane. If you’re flying between climate zones (hello winter escape!) this becomes even more important.

Keep Your Personal Style While Traveling

You don’t have to pack a wardrobe full of clothes that don’t feel like you. To maintain your travel fashion without a wardrobe revamp:

• Identify your favorites (the things you wear all the time)
• Identify items that do double duty or layer well
• Start with neutral color base layers
• Use accessories to make outfits “pop”

Develop a Capsule Wardrobe

Developing a consistent set of clothes that you wear most of the time (at home and while traveling) is called building a capsule wardrobe . The basic idea is that you develop a uniform of good quality, reliable pieces that reflect your style and that you love wearing. Then, build on those with a few accents and accessories. Easy, right?

The “rules” of developing a capsule wardrobe are as follows:

• Buy quality, not quantity
• Choose fabrics carefully
• Harmonize color schemes
• Stick to 10-12 items you can mix and match

Also consider how easily certain fabrics wrinkle. While there are packing  strategies for reducing wrinkles , it’s best to pack wrinkle resistant fabrics to begin with. And what about swimsuits? Pack one. Always. Even if you’re headed to Antarctica!

Choose Clothes You Can Layer

The key to a packing light is beginning with the right  base layers.

Choose items that are:

• Mix and match (in the same color family and neutral)
• Quality fabrics (Merino wool is a team Tortuga favorite)
• Comfortable and make you feel great

Consider Travel Specific Underwear

What goes under your base layer… underwear… matters too. Maybe you’ll travel with the same underwear you wear at home, but maybe you’ll make some choices specific to travel.  Choose underwear  that are comfortable above all, but also wash and dry quickly. Bras are trickier.  Wear the one that’s hardest to pack on the plane. Then, consider how you pack the rest.

Limit Yourself to Two Pairs of Shoes, Even if It’s Hard

Even the most savvy packers sometimes get stuck on shoes. Why is it so hard not to throw in that third (or fourth!) pair? This is one department where men really do have it easier. We ladies have a greater range of shoe possibilities and needs than our male counterparts do.

To choose the right travel shoes for a trip, consider:

• Versatility

Make the commitment to limit yourself to just two pairs of shoes, one to wear while you travel, and one extra pair. The extra pair might be fancier, for nights out on the town, or more utilitarian, for long days spent walking and exploring. If you absolutely cannot limit yourself to two, then slip one pair of flip flops or sandals into the water bottle pocket on the side of your travel backpack and it will be our little secret.

Here are some  great summer shoe options .

Pack Jewelry So it Won’t Tangle

First of all, leave the heirlooms at home. Don’t take the risk of traveling with your most precious pieces.

The following tips will help you  pack jewelry better :

• Necklaces can be threaded through straws to keep them from tangling
• Slide bracelets over a rolled up hand towel, or pair of socks
• Store pairs of earrings secured through the holes of a button
• Place everything inside a soft jewelry pouch, or a designated ziplock bag

Make Your Makeup Travel-Friendly

Travel friendly makeup is tricky. Dry items are more TSA friendly. Decanting is the best way to take just enough of wet items. Contact lens cases are great for taking just a little dab.

When making choices consider:

• Size (TSA limits liquids to 3.4 oz)
• Ability to travel well (dry products win out over wet ones)
• Powder vs. Liquid (you can take all of the dry products you want)

Consider Alternative Feminine Hygiene

Having to deal with your period while traveling is no fun, but it’s also a reality for most of us. Without the comforts of home, how do you deal with the discomfort and the mess?

Fortunately, there are a number of options, inlcuding:

• Reusable panties
• Menstrual cup
• Reusable pads and tampons

Read this for a thorough breakdown on what works, and your  feminine hygiene options.

Find the Right (Sized) Bag

No matter how big or small our bags are, we always feel compelled to fill them. Choose a bag that’s large enough to fit everything you need, but not so big you’ll be tempted to throw in that fourth pair of shoes, just because you have space.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack (pictured above) was named “Best Carry On Travel Bag” by The Wirecutter.

An ideal travel backpack combines the ergonomics and portability of a backpack with the obsessive organization and easy packing of a suitcase. And, the harness is fully height adjustable for a perfect fit on anyone.

Meredith says,  “I love how this bag helps me stay organized. Everyone is jealous of my AWESOMEEE BAG. And, the cherry on top is that the Tortuga customer service is outstanding. 10/10 would buy this bag again.”

Packing for Special Events

Not all trips are created equal, and not every plane ride is taking you to a beach destination for a holiday.

Packing for a business trip  requires a special blend of clothing and accessories. Including planning for a polished look (think wrinkle free) and office to evening options.

Destination Packing Lists for Women

Let’s face it. There are places in the world that are more complicated for women to travel. The Middle East and India, in particular, get a lot of press as being difficult for women to navigate culturally and in terms of requirements for dress. Can you still travel carry on ? Of course. 

Jenn traveled to Egypt, and even packed a burka in her Outbreaker 45. You can adapt her  Egypt packing list for women  to suit any Middle Eastern, or Muslim country.

When in doubt, pack a shawl to cover your shoulders, and choose shorts and skirts that cover your knees. Save your bikini for the tourist beaches.

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Outbreaker backpack $269.

35L: Max Int'l Carry On

Jenn raised 4 children while traveling full-time for more than a decade– it’s called worldschooling and it’s awesome. Jenn has been published in numerous travel publications, partnered with brands to promote travel and education, she writes and speaks frequently on topics related to work-life integration for travelers, solo female travel, and family travel. Jenn has traveled deeply in more than 50 countries on six continents.

Read more from Jenn

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The Classic Packing List

Our  Signature Packing Lists are your ultimate guide to packing light. Whether you’re a fashionista or a no-frills traveler, these lists are made for you to customize to fit your own personal style.

This isn’t your average packing list! The clothing shown has been carefully selected and offers you brands, colors, fabrics, and functionality that will help make planning your travel wardrobe a breeze.

By including a combination of well-known travel brands along with your favorite retailers, you’ll find that you really can find a happy balance between travel and fashion!

Pack like a pro with Travel Fashion Girl and don’t forget to download your  free printable packing checklist!

Please keep in mind that each item shown represents visual ideas of how you can create a custom travel wardrobe. Read this guide to learn how to adapt the items to the styles and color palette of your choice. For a complete introduction to creating a travel wardrobe, please read  Pack Light Stylishly .

Maxi   Dress  |  Top  |  Sleeveless  |  Blouse  |  Tee  |  Top  |  Tank  |  Skirt  |  Pants  |  Jeans  |  Jacket  |  Dress  |  Flat  |  Sandal  |  Sunglasses  |  Bag

You can use this sample travel wardrobe as a stand alone minimalist packing list or as the main core of your clothing.   Long term travelers can use this list as well as vacation-goers. Keep reading to learn how.

Consisting of twelve pieces of clothing, these are the essentials chosen specifically to provide you with optimal function while maximizing your potential for varying travel outfits. Twelve pieces can create an ideal capsule wardrobe for travel and can also work with larger packing list. Make sure you can mix and match each item.

For long trips in particular you’ll need to choose fabrics that can wash and dry quickly and easily. For trips less than two weeks you may need to rewear clothing (a common pro traveler technique).

VERSATILE TRAVEL WARDROBE OPTIONS

WHERE AND WHEN ARE YOU TRAVELING?

This packing list is an ideal capsule wardrobe for travel. You can easily travel with only twelve pieces for Round the World trips , two week vacations , or even weekend travel . For cold weather, please read these tips .

Depending on the length of your trip there’s a good chance you’ll need to do laundry. For two week trips you can use the Maximista Packing List to make complete outfits for two weeks but this is the exception.

The key to traveling for more than three weeks is to do laundry once a week and just pack one week’s worth of clothing!

If you’re using the Classic Packing List for longer trips, hand washing is necessary. Make sure to choose the right fabrics for your basics is necessary to ensure maximum use and swift washing times.

Suggested items to pack include a universal rubber sink plug and packable clothesline to make this process a breeze!

GUIDELINES TO CHOOSE APPROPRIATE ITEMS

As with all the lists, it is important to select clothing items that work well together and can be used interchangeably.

COLOR: One Color Story – solids, neutrals, patterns in same color story ok

FABRIC: Very flexible for short trips; Versatile for long trips: fabrics can vary, quick dry and light preferable

CUT: Good fit; every item should  mix and match

STYLE: Appropriate in various settings: Beach, Temples, Villages, Cities, Treks, etc

TRAVEL BAG: Depends on trip  40 Liter Backpack ,  carry-on size suitcase . Check out other luggage options.

Travel organizers are the key to organization and the ability to maximize space especially for carry-on luggage. Watch this packing video to learn more!

Sample Classic Packing List

12 Pieces of Clothing

Linen Scoop Tee

Striped Tee

Washed-satin Cami Top

    Tank Top

Sleeveless Drape Blouse

Silk Long Sleeve Blouse

  Calf-Length Oval Skirt

Floral Print Harem Pants

Boyfriend Jeans

  Pleated Maxi Dress

Draped Dress

Utility Jacket  

Four Tank Tops/Short Sleeve Tops in the heat or Four Long Sleeves for Cooler Climates  Synthetic fabric, quick dry, solid colors or prints in same color story to layer as needed for varying temperatures and travel outfit variety. Tunics  can be versatile and can be worn in more than ways than regular length tops and the longer length is most flattering to leggings .

Ideally, all tops should mix and match with each other for the cold. Must match all bottoms to make the most of your travel wardrobe.

One Long Sleeve Shirt Light quick drying fabrics in the heat. Able to layer over other tops and dresses as a light jacket or cover up. Button up tops are versatile. Merino wool or cashmere to act as a top layer over other tops as needed.

Remember to choose sleeve lengths that you like. Some women like sleeveless and others like long sleeves. Choose what works for you.

Five sets of Bottoms  Highly dependent on your destination and the weather, choose items that can be used for every activity. Should mix and match with all tops.

Whether you choose long pants, capris, shorts, or skirts is up to you.  Jeans work well  on vacations, trips to metropolitan cities, or cool climates. Very destination dependent. They may be thick but hardly have to be washed.

If you pack colorful or printed tops choose solid or neutral bottoms and vice versa.

Two Dresses or if you prefer separates choose skirts instead. You can go one of two ways with this: bold colors or prints or classic style with neutral color. It depends on your style.

Versatility is key. For dresses choose one that can take you from day to night with some added accessories or an extra hint of makeup. Minimum should be one day/night and one day. A classic wrap dress is always a great choice, maxi (long length) dresses are great for conservative environments, and an LBD (or your favorite color) work well.

Two Outerwear One coat/jacket plus one layer for underneath.

One-Two Bathing Suits Reversible bathing suits allow you to mix and match. Choose one that has a neutral shade on one side so it can easily double up as a bra under your tops.

Three Bras Neutral colors that matches with all your tops. Nude tones recommended. Read about choosing the best bras for travel .

One Sports Bra For long trips if you plan on doing activities or have long bumpy transportation journeys.

Two Sleepwear Pajamas depends on your personal preference but try to choose versatile items that can be worn outside the bedroom if needed such as running shorts and a fitness top. Silk or satin chemises and sets can be used as a light option as well.

Ten Pairs of Travel Underwear Quick dry, avoid 100% cotton or mesh. Quantity depends on length of trip. Read these tips for extended travel .

Three Pairs of Shoes Choose versatile footwear . Style depends greatly on your activities and the weather but one thing’s for sure: choose comfort over fashion. A balance between functionality and fashion is ideal! Should mix and match all clothing and work for all  activities. Read our ten step guide to choosing the best travel shoes for any trip.

Accessories One belt that can be worn with pants and dress for practical style. Jewelry can be used to add color, change style, or add glam. Don’t forget them. Read the lazy girl’s guide to stylish travel accessories for more ideas.

Makeup Take the essentials but leave the drawer filled with makeup at home. Decanter full sizes into smaller reusable containers with only the quantity you need. Read these posts for more travel makeup tips .

Alternate Packing List Combinations

  Longsleeve |  Tank  |  Tee  |  Top |  Dress  |  Dress 2  |  Jeans  |  Skinny Jeans  |  Jacket  |  Skirt  |  Blouse |  V Neck

5 Tops + 5 Bottoms + 2 Dresses  (versatile, shown above)

6 Tops + 3 Bottoms + 3 Dresses  (good multi-climate trips or hot weather)

7 Tops + 4 Bottoms + 1 Dress  (good for varying climates)

8 Tops + 4 Bottoms  (good for cold climates)

12 Dresses  (perfect for resort and tropical vacations)

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READ THE REST OF OUR SIGNATURE PACKING LISTS:

• Minimalista Packing List for Summer
• Minimalista Packing List for Winter
• Essentials Packing List for Summer
• Essentials Packing List for Winter
• Classic Packing List for Summer
• Classic Packing List for Winter
• Maximista Packing List for Summer
• Maximista Packing List for Winter

Find out what to wear in every destination  and visit our country specific packing lists  for even more helpful tips.

READY TO TRAVEL CARRY-ON ONLY?

If it’s your first time traveling, you have a complicated itinerary, or you’re a chronic overpacker take our  packing course which shows you exactly how to travel carry-on only for each and every single trip!

Click here to stop overpacking for good!

PRINTABLE TRAVEL CHECKLIST

Home > General Travel > Long-Term Packing List for Women

Long-Term Travel Packing List for Women: A Not-Too-Long List

Whether you're a digital nomad or full-time backpacker, this long-term travel packing list for women will help you fine-tune your bag's contents down to just the right size.

The Just-Right List

This long-term travel packing list began at the same time as this blog, with Chris and my 6-month move to Medellin . And, like the blog, it started off messy, amateurish, and unrefined.

Pretty much as soon as we landed, I realized I had packed too much. All the extra jackets and knickknacks did nothing but weigh me down. Luckily, my family came to visit so I could dump it on them to take back home.

But I learned my lesson. I took note of what I kept to remember for future trips. And I've continued to learn and fine-tune my long-term travel packing list as Chris and I have continued our "unconventional routes" around the world.

It's still a long list. But it's not too long. It's not too short either. For me, it's getting closer and closer to being just right.

Long-Term Travel Packing List Outline

Pre-trip checklist, miscellaneous.

• Clothing Tops
• Clothing Bottoms

Electronics

Even though the following should be obvious, I make a point of triple-checking I have them sorted out before I leave:

✓  Medication

If you're on prescription medication, make sure you get this before your trip. Also, have your doctor write you a prescription in case you need to have it filled while you're away.

✓  Passport and Driver's License

Make sure your driver's license doesn't expire when you're gone and your passport expires six or more months after you return. It sounds basic but so many people fail to check this before leaving. Save digital copies to the cloud in case of an emergency.

✓  Travel Insurance

Many travel credit cards offer free travel insurance but they're often only valid for a couple of weeks. A month, max. Take advantage of those free days of insurance, then pay separately for travel insurance for the rest of your travels.

If you're not sure which travel insurance to buy, check out these steps for finding the best travel insurance .

✓  Call Your Bank

Let your bank and credit card company know you're traveling, where, and for how long so the fraud protection team doesn't cancel your card thinking someone else has gotten a hold of your account details.

While you're at it, ask your bank if they have any travel accounts or cards with lower foreign withdrawal and exchange fees. If not, look to sign up with another bank that has them.

✓  Stop Monthly Payments Back Home

If you're a part-time digital nomad, you probably don't want to cancel everything but look into how much it will cost you to put your gym pass, phone, and other monthly subscriptions on hold while you're gone.

Packing lists aren't the most exciting reads, so let's get some positive momentum with the more exciting (or at least less boring) stuff:

✓  Empty Space

Just because you have a big bag doesn’t mean you should fill it so the seams are about to burst.

As we recommend in our post on unconventional travel tips , if you have to roll your clothes to get them to fit in, you have too much. Save room in your bag for souvenirs, new clothes, and duty-free alcohol.

✓  Gifts

This is one of our top travel tips : To make new friends on the road and win over your hosts, pack a little something special that's unique in your home country (or city) and difficult to find where you're going to give as gifts.

For example, Chris and I bring Canadian delicacies like packaged smoked salmon and dried mushrooms (the non-magical kind).

Related: How to Move to a New City and Make Friends

✓  Knife

Not for protection. At least not for protection against people or animals. My trusty Wusthof chef’s knife  protects me from having to try to chop with whatever inevitably dull knives are in the kitchens and places we travel to.

✓  Thermos

My Zojirushi travel mug , which Chris got me for my birthday years ago, is more proof that Chris' guide to how to pick gifts really works. It holds in heat (or cold) for hours, doesn’t spill, and has an appealing lightweight, sleek design. 

✓  Workout Toys

Probably Chris and my top tip for staying fit while traveling is to ditch the gym and work out outside . It saves us money, keeps us fit and happy, and introduces us to new environments and people.

Sometimes we have to be creative. To expand our options, I pack the following lightweight workout equipment:

• Lightweight skipping rope – Great for warm-up or circuit workouts and weighs next to nothing.
• Rubber workout bands – For activation exercises, stretching, and banded workouts on the bar.
• Lacrosse ball – To roll out tight areas and pressure points.

Related: Natural Outdoor Workouts: A Comprehensive Beginner’s Guide

✓  Tea

I pack high-quality green, black and herbal teas just in case I can't buy them wherever I'm going.

✓  Packing Cubes

I use packing cubes to organize and separate my stuff. People recommend rolling your clothes but just like Chris, I feel like if you need to roll your clothes you're already bringing too much.

✓  Travel Towel

Normally, we rent places with towels when we travel long-term or stay at hotels or Airbnbs that offer them. My travel towel still comes in handy for the beach, road trips, as a workout mat, and seemingly something new every trip.

✓  Check-In Bag

I struggle with this one.

In Medellin, I used the big backpack pictured above. But since Chris and I prefer to stay in one place and explore deep rather than wide when we long-term travel, I thought I might as well get something sturdier, so I got an  Away Travel suitcase .

I don’t like it. It’s too big and cumbersome and for some reason, the handle length is totally off so I have a hard time dragging it. So, I’m back with the backpack… for now.

Ideal Check-In Bag Specs:

• Straps to be carried as a backpack.
• The ability for the straps to be packed away when checking in the bag.
• Multiple zippers and compartments.

✓  Carry-On Backpack

My latest purchase is the REI Women's Rucksack 40L . It’s a perfect size for me to fit all of my necessities for long-term travel, without looking like I’m about to climb Mt. Everest.

It’s minimal, has a ton of pockets, and has rave reviews like this from other travelers: 

So far so good, but it's still early days. I'll let you know if this bag really is marriage material.

And if you can't get your hands on this exact bag, no worries. Here's what to look for:

• Easy-to-wash (no leather or other hard-to-wash material)
• Comfortable handles and easy-to-carry
• Padded interior pockets for laptops

✓  Day Pack

Last year Chris gifted me my Lululemon City Adventurer backpack for my birthday. I love it. And I'm not just saying that because he got it for me. (I actually picked it out myself.) It's stylish, goes with everything, and has just the right amount of pockets including an easy-access one for keys and a laptop sleeve.

Related: How to Give Gifts Even Better than Santa: 8 Foolproof Tips

✓  Tote

I use my  Longchamp tote bag for the times when my backpack's too big or sporty. It's lightweight, foldable, and versatile.

Shoes take up a ton of space and are heavy—lucky you if you have small feet—but you'll still want to pack a few pairs if you are traveling long-term.

Here's what I pack:

• Runners.  Go for something lightweight, washable, and that matches with everything. I swear by my black and white  Nike Frees which are great for hiking, walking around cities, and exercise. Just not hiking in ankle-deep mud in Rwanda . 
• Flip-flops.  Since we usually travel to warmer destinations, flip-flops are a must. I like my Havianas .
• Dressy Sandals. No, I'm not talking stilettos. Pack flat sandals that can be dressed up or down that are also comfortable for long periods of walking.
• Sneakers.  My on one of my 15 favorite travel essentials . When I'm moving from one place to the next I wear these because they're the heaviest shoes I pack.

Since everyone uses different toiletries, there's no point in me telling you what I pack. I'll just share some items you might not consider packing:

• Creams in small, travel-friendly containers (100ml sunscreen, 50ml face cream, 100ml body lotion).
• Soap (body soap, facial cleanser) packed in a small Ziploc bag.
• Eye-drops for dry eyes.
• Small pouch with band-aids and medication.
• Small Ziploc of Q-tips.

Keep It Small and Contained

Don't be that person who packs huge bottles of shampoo and conditioner in their check-in bag. Buy your bigger toiletries when you get wherever you're going.

To stay clean you until you get settled and save money and the environment, fill small reusable containers with creams and shampoos. And always put them in a Ziploc bag to protect the rest of your stuff from spills.

For these reusable contains, my recommendations are the 50ml and 100ml containers from  Muji . Quality matters. If you cheap out, there's a good chance your shampoo and face-creams lids will pop off and turn into a gooey mess.

Clothing – Tops

Three words of advice: pack neutral colors. At least for the majority. Not every top on my long-term travel packing list is neutral, but pretty close. That way I can mix and match and not look like I only own three outfits.

✓  Shirts and Dresses

• Chris would disagree with bringing an easily-stained white shirt but I think it's a must. It goes with everything and in warm countries (which we tend to visit), I always stay cool.
• You might see me rocking this with some jeans to complete the Canadian tuxedo combo every now and then. I can't help it. It's in my blood. I love my button-up jean shirt because it's super versatile and goes with almost anything.
• You never know when you'll get invited to a fancy dinner and need something a little dressier than a sports bra and tank top. Bring a couple lightweight tops that will go with almost anything. My favorite is my Hannah Lavery Drift Linen Shirt.
• You're going to want to dress up every now and then. I pack a romper and two dresses. One LBD (little-black-dress) and another summery one.
• Something that you can throw over a bikini that dries quickly.

✓  Sporty Shirts

• Lululemon wins again here. I wear this tank at least once or twice a week. It's perfect: quick-drying and anti-stink.
• Again, Lululemon comes to the rescue. The Swiftly Lululemon tops are great. I purchased one from their outlet store a couple of years ago and wear it, constantly. It's thin, easy to wash, and dries super quickly.
• I work out a lot, so having 3 sports bras is a must. My favorite sports bra is the Flo Y Bra by Lululemon.

✓  Warmer Tops

We avoid wintery destinations for our long-term travels, so you may need to add to this section if you're going somewhere snowy.

• My yellow MEC rain jacket makes me look like a bumblebee, but I'm okay with it. It's super light-weight, reasonably priced, and packs up into a small little pocket, which makes it perfect for traveling light and coming in handy for those unexpected hiking downpours.
• My Patagonia Nano Puff is such a versatile jacket that is perfect for layering that I don't care that Chris has the same one. I can put my rain jacket on top of it and wear two, even three, layers underneath for when it's  really  cold. Also, Patagonia has a lifetime warranty so if you accidentally rip your jacket on barbed wire (like I did) they fix it up for you in a few weeks at no extra cost.
• My black long-sleeved top is my one and only foray into the world of merino wool that Chris is obsessed with. I like it, but it doesn't make me want to write a whole post about how awesome merino is .

✓  Other

• A super versatile cap that goes with every outfit. I've worn my Nike golf cap for about 6+ years and it's still going strong.
• 4 bras (2 nude, 1 black, 1 strapless)
• 10 underwear/thongs
• My friends make fun of me for dressing like a 60-year-old Japanese lady wearing my floral-patterned pajamas, but I pack them anyway, especially for long-term traveling. Bring something lightweight and easy-to-wash.

Clothing – Bottoms

✓  day-to-day bottoms.

• To complete my Canadian tuxedo ensemble while traveling in warmer countries, I like to bring a pair of jean shorts. Any will do. A local thrift store is sometimes the best place to find some.
• Lucky for us ladies, our bathing suits can be tiny and take up hardly any space.  But that doesn't mean you should bring your entire collection.
• I love my somewhat boxy, high-waisted Levi's. Chris, on the other hand, does not.
• My  Aritzia Nanterre pants keep me cool in warm weather, have handy pockets, are comfortable for walking around the city or sitting on a 14-hour plane ride, and can be dressed up or down.
• 7 pairs of white socks

✓  Sporty Bottoms

• Lululemon shorts are the only sports shorts I own. There are plenty of other good shorts out there but I haven't purchased any recently so I can't speak about their quality or versatility. I personally like the Run Times shorts.
• Ok, maybe this post should be sponsored by Lululemon. My favorite workout pants are the quick-dry Fast and Free Tights . I wear them just about everywhere.

I like to carry most, if not all of my electronics with me on the plane.  Just in case something happens. The REI backpack I use has a storage compartment for a laptop and I like to keep all my cords and chargers in one place.

• Laptop + charger + case
• Camera + lenses + charger
• Wireless headphones + charge cord
• Speaker (same charger for headphones). My UE Boom portable speaker is one of my favorite things .
• External hard-drive . For our photos. We have a 1TB Seagate .

What Did I Forget?

The funny thing is that despite having spent many years refining my long-term travel packing list, every time I leave for a trip I still get the nagging feeling that I forgot something.

And normally my feeling's correct. But I always survive. I either buy whatever I'm missing wherever I am or figure out how to live without it.

I'd rather not though, so if you have suggestions for items to add (or remove) to improve my long-term travel packing list, please let me know in the comments below.

Happy travels!

Read This Next:

Travel Essentials for Women: 15 Favorites to Never Forget

The Best Countries to Visit for 18 Unique Types of Trip

Travel Tips and Tricks: At Least One Will Enhance Your Trip

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

2 thoughts on “Long-Term Travel Packing List for Women: A Not-Too-Long List”

Thanks for the packing list! Are you able to fit everything in your list above into a 40L Ruckpack?

WOW! How long is this trip you are packing for? I mean – if it is for several weeks (months?) ok but MAN! that is a lot of clothing. yes on sox, unders (thong yikes!), and bras for sure…. but so many dresses? not one versatile skirt? obs you work out a lot.

I get that you are sporty, younger, and fit (I saw those abs in another picture: bam!). – but I wish this list was for a broader (get it, get it!?) audience…

BUT this is your list – so- carry on.

What do you think? (Leave a Comment.) Cancel reply

Exploring the World with our Traveling Tots

How To Pack Light: Carry-On Packing List for Women

We choose to travel carry-on only whenever possible. Through our years of travel, we have found that bringing less simplifies our entire trip- from packing, to the actual travel, to unpacking. This is the packing list for women I use to make sure we have everything we need, and nothing more, for any trip.

Playgrounds and Passports is supported by readers. When you click through links on this site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your continued support!

Advantages of Packing Light

• Packing smaller suitcases is just easier . We don’t need to worry about packing and folding our entire wardrobe.
• Moving through airports with carry on bags is much easier. We are often able to skip the check in desk and we never need to stop at baggage claim.
• Traveling light saves money in checked baggage fees.
• Managing fewer items reduces the possibility of losing something to theft or carelessness.
• Lifting smaller items is much easier when going up and down stairs in hotels or metro stations.
• Transportation is easier with fewer things- we don’t need to worry about renting a larger car or boarding a crowded subway with large bags.
• We like to unpack at our destination. Unpacking and repacking when moving hotels takes less time with fewer things.
• Smaller suitcases can be tucked away more easily in a small hotel room.
• When returning home, there is less laundry to manage and unpacking is less daunting.

We’ve been traveling with Away Bigger Carry Ons for several years and love them. They are easy to wheel through airports, have convenient organization features, and easily hold a week’s worth of clothes. Click here for $20 off your Away purchase.

Our “Golden Rule” of Packing

Bring only what you can carry up a flight of stairs in one trip.

Yes, you read that right. We bring only what we can carry up a flight of stairs in one trip. And when traveling with a baby or toddler, that includes our daughter. This allows us to move quickly through airports to make tight connections, board subways and trains without issue, and carry our luggage up subway steps. It also reduces the chances of losing items to theft- each parent is able to keep their hands on their items.

Typically, we divide items like this:

• Parent 1- Handles our 2 carry on suitcases and a backpack
• Parent 2- Handles our toddler, the stroller , and a backpack (for some trips, this 2nd backpack is our pack and play )

Tips and Tricks for Traveling with a Carry On

Pack for 5-7 days.

We have found that 5-7 days is the sweet spot, regardless of trip length. We rewear pants and jackets, but pack clean underwear, shirts, and socks for each day.

We are not the type of people that can get away with wearing dirty clothes multiple days. We plan our trips to have access to laundry every 5-7 days. Typically, we stay in AirBNBs, so this is easy. If we don’t have laundry in our apartment, we will find a wash-and-fold service nearby. Some destinations, including those in Asia, have very affordable laundry services through the hotel, so we do use that occasionally. Just be sure to check the turnaround time and plan accordingly.

Pack clothes that dry quickly

Many European homes have washers but not dryers. Packing clothes that dry quickly eliminates the amount of time it takes for your clothes to be ready to wear, or ready to put in your suitcase and move to your next destination. We try to avoid washing jeans and sweatshirts while traveling for this reason.

Skip the “just in case” items

Unless you are visiting a remote destination, you can pick up these items at your destination if needed. Only pack the items you will definitely need.

Cut down on shoes and toiletries

These are the items that steal the most space in your luggage. 5 days of clothing is remarkably similar in size to 7 days of clothing. Adding an extra pair of shoes, however, can take up 25% of your suitcase, especially when you have large feet like Casey. Cut back on the number of shoes you bring and the amount and size of your toiletries to save space in your luggage.

Packing List for Women- Carry On Only

Pack clothing for 5-7 days and plan to do laundry. The linked items are the tried-and-tested items that I pack for every trip.

• 5-7 underwear
• 2-3 bottoms ( pants , shorts, leggings, etc.)
• 1 sweatshirt
• 1 light layer (sweater, quarter zip , etc.)

Seasonal Items- Warm Weather

• 1 dress (if you choose to pack more dresses, reduce the number of shirts you bring)
• 2-3 bathing suits

Seasonal Items- Cool Weather

• Packable Rain Jacket
• Packable Puffer Jacket
• 1 pair gloves

For any trip, choose 2 pairs of shoes only. Wear one on the plane and pack the other in your suitcase. These combinations work best:

• Beach Trip- walking sandal and casual sandal
• City Trip- walking shoe and casual shoe

If you are planning nice dinners, choose a casual shoe like ballet flats or cute sandals that can be dressed up.

This is an area that really needs to be minimized in order to keep your luggage small. While traveling, I reduce my skincare routine to the bare minimum and identify items I can do without. I also choose to use soap and shampoo from the hotel, but always bring my own conditioner.

Additionally, be sure your items are as small as possible. Many skincare items are 3oz, which is allowed on planes, but is more product than you will need. I use these containers to decant my products based on my needs: 3 oz containers , 1 oz containers , GoTubb containers . I’ve used these exact containers for years and have never had issues with leaking or breaking.

Finally, be sure you are coordinating your toiletries with your travel partner to avoid duplicates.

• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Skincare products (face wash, moisturizer, etc.)
• Makeup – I usually bring just mascara and tinted moisturizer. If I need more, I bring a travel palette and travel brushes.
• Hair brush and Hair ties
• Nail trimmers
• Hydration tablets
• Frequently taken medications (pepto, Tylenol, etc.- whatever you use frequently at home)
• Sunscreen and bug spray (if needed)

Miscellaneous

• Wallet, passport, visas, etc.
• Kindle Paperwhite
• Universal adapter (if needed)
• 1-2 detergent pods (we have found that most AirBNBs provide detergent, but we bring 1-2 just in case)
• Reusable water bottle

Need more packing help? Check out our other packing lists:

• How to Pack Light: Carry-On Packing List for Men
• How To Pack Light: Carry On Packing List for Toddlers
• How To Pack Light: Carry On Packing List for Babies

Related Posts:

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The Only Packing List You’ll Ever Need (for the Entire World)

01/16/2019 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

When planning out a trip somewhere, I think we can all agree it goes step one: pick a place.

Step two, figure out what the heck you need to bring.

I’ve got a lot of experience with packing. In fact, I kind of feel like I’m always packing or unpacking. I’ve tried periods of living in one place and not traveling, but I am spectacularly bad at it.

However packing is something I’ve become incredibly good at due to years of practice, trial, and (much) error.

Ergo, it felt like time to put together a packing list that encompasses all the packing lists.

I’ve also invited Kortney , our resident low-maintenance travel beauty expert, to weigh in with her best tips as well.

We’re doing this for all of us.

This is what to pack when you’re traveling to anywhere in the world:

Click to jump to a category:

• Modesty considerations
• Easy hair tips
• How to pack carry-on only
• Which bags to use
• Cameras, computers, and gear
• The best travel insurance

What should you wear? These suggestions will help you practically prepare for whatever climate you might encounter, though it’s always fun to leave a little room for fashion, too. Unless I’m heading somewhere super expensive, I tend to leave room in my backpack for some purchases on the road. I love having a mixed wardrobe on the road, and bringing it back home to mix and match too!

Like Namibia , Morocco, Northern Chile , and the Southwestern US

Mmm there’s something so satisfying about the dry heat of a desert without any mosquitoes or humidity to make it unenjoyable. Yet it’s not without its pitfalls. Sometimes deserts are intensely hot only to become intensely cold at night. They’re extreme environments in so many ways, so it pays to be prepared. Here’s what I bring:

• 4-6 light tank tops
• 1-2 short-sleeved shirts
• 1-2 lightweight dresses or skirts , particularly in places where modesty is a consideration
• 3-4 pairs of shorts, both for exercise and fashion
• 1 pair of flip flops or sandals
• 1 pair of running shoes
• 2-3 pairs of ankle socks
• Hat to shade from the sun
• 1 lightweight shawl to cover up if needed
• 1-2 pairs warm leggings for nights
• Warm jacket for nights
• Light gloves and beanie for nights
• Enough undies for at least a week
• Cute sunglasses

Like Southeast Asia , Southern Uganda , Costa Rica, and Hawaii

Jungles are hot, wet, and sticky. They are also where some of the best spots in the world are to hang out in. Basically all of Southeast Asia is jungly, as is much of central Africa and my (second) favorite state, Hawaii. The key in jungles is to wear lightweight clothing, to stay away from denim, and to find things that won’t easily show sweat stains. It’ll happen!

• 4-6 light tank tops (if in Southeast Asia, leave room to buy there)
• 2 pairs harem pants
• 1 pair of lightweight trekking pants (if entering the jungle)
• 2 pairs of shorts, both for exercise and fashion  (not denim – it sucks in humidity)
• 1 very lightweight jacket
• 1 sarong to cover up if needed and for the beach
• 2 swim suits

➳ Click here for a packing list for Africa

➳  Click for a packing list for Southeast Asia

Mild Climates

Like Southern California , the South of France , and South Africa

Who doesn’t love the perpetual spring of Southern California and the mild weather of the mediterranean? In mild climates I feel like I have more space to experiment with my wardrobe, and tend to insert things like patterned overalls, high waisted shorts and crop tops, and patterned leggings. It’s all about layers when it cools down, and mixing and matching.

• 3-4 tank tops, crops, or a mix
• 2-3 pairs patterned leggings (I usually do fashionable and workout leggings )
• 1-2 thin long-sleeved shirts for layering
• 2 lightweight dresses , overalls, and/or rompers
• 1-2 pairs of pants (I think pants are leg prison so I bring more leggings)
• 1-2 jackets ( fashionable and for outdoor activities )
• 1 pair of sandals or flip flops
• 1 pair of boots

➳ Click here for a packing list for Europe in the Fall

Cold weather

Like Patagonia , Iceland , Northern Canada , and Germany in the winter

When temperatures dip below freezing, or when you’re in for all kinds of weather in one day, the best defense is a bunch of layers. Here’s what I bring to mildly cold climates:

• 1 very warm winter jacket
• 2 pairs fleece-lined leggings
• 2 pairs normal leggings
• 1 pair loose jeans that you can fit leggings underneath
• 4-5 thin shirts for layering
• 2 thermal shirts
• 1-2 sweaters
• 1 bathing suit for those snowy hot tubs
• 2 pairs snow boots
• 1 pair gloves and hat
• 4-5 pairs thick socks

➳ Click here for a packing list for Iceland

➳ Click here for a packing list for Patagonia

Really cold weather

Like Finland , Idaho , and Canada in the winter

In places like the arctic, the northern parts of the States or Canada in the winter, or anywhere that temperatures start to creep from -10 degrees and below, it’s time to invest in some serious winter gear. Temperatures like this don’t have to mean staying indoors if you just wear the right things:

• 1-2 pairs ski underwear
• 1 pair of jeans that you can fit leggings underneath
• 1 pair snow pants
• 1 pair gloves suited to very cold weather and hat
• Several packs Hand warmers
• 2 neck gaiters
• Polarized sunglasses or ski goggles

➳  Click here for a packing list specific to ski trips

➳ Click here for a packing list for Europe in the winter

Like Mozambique , the Thai islands , Aruba , and Zanzibar

I don’t know about you, but when I’m in a beachy destination you can pretty much always find me in my bathing suit. One should always be prepared for a swimming opportunity, right? However for those places that require I wear clothing to enter, here’s my packing list for beaches:

• 3-4 bathing suits (I spend entirely too much on mine from Revolve )
• 2-3 light tank tops
• 1 pair harem pants
• 2  lightweight dresses or skirts , particularly in places where modesty is a consideration
• 2-4 pairs of shorts, both for exercise  and fashion
• 1-2 cute coverups

➳ Click here for a packing list for Thailand

➳  Click here for a packing list by Kortney specific to Zanzibar

Modesty Considerations

In some countries, you really can wear whatever you want and in others, it’ll bring everything from unwanted attention to trouble with the law. Here’s Kortney to talk modesty requirements:

We travel girls are easily one of the most independent breeds of women in the universe and rules and molds are only designed to be broken — however, respecting the cultural norms of a country is not only necessary for every respectful traveler, it’s sometimes important for your own safety.

When traveling, bring respect with you wherever you go. Remember you are a guest and experience the destination to the fullest by adopting everything about the culture – even if that means dressing in a way you don’t agree with for a few days.

Here are four tips for keeping modesty in mind:

• Research the country before you go – Dive into what information already exists about the country you’re going to. When visiting a particularly religious country, it’s important to observe their traditions especially when entering or exploring around a place of worship. Other countries, those traditions go beyond a place of worship, so it’s best to know your facts and be prepared. Simply Google the country name plus ‘modesty considerations’ and you’ll get some sources specific to your destination. In Turkey, for example, it’s required that women wear a head scarf when walking around a mosque. In Italy, you need to cover knees and shoulders when entering a church. In the Maldives and other majority Muslim countries, women must be fully dressed on a public beach. There are dozens of guidelines and rules to each destination, so be sure to do your research.
• Always carry an oversized scarf with you in your bag; this is an easy way to make sure you can always switch to a more conservative look if you find yourself in an area where you could be offending locals.
• Always pack a more conservative outfit choice – When traveling around the world, be sure you have at least one go-to outfit that leans toward the conservative side that you can rely on in unexpected situations where modesty is more appropriate.
• Use Common Sense – While wearing Lululemon sports bras and our beach bikinis in public may be a cultural norm in the United States non-offensive, one must remember that even in westernized European countries this is still not a norm. Be respectful of the places you visit, dress with some degree of modesty and save more minimal outfits for beloved beach destinations and escapes.

So what do you need to bring with you and what can you refill on the road when you travel? The good news is, with the exception of super remote areas, you can usually at least find Pantene, deodorant, and sunscreen on the road. I still like to come from home with everything I need for at least the first week. Here’s what’s in my bag:

• 1 100ml or less container of shampoo
• 1 100ml or less container of conditioner
• 1 100ml or less container of face wash
• 1 100ml or less container of body wash
• 1 100ml or less container of body lotion
• Reef-safe mineral sunscreen
• Nudu Moisturizers and washes if I’m in dry climates
• Enough Venus razors for my whole trip
• Two deodorant sticks
• Enough floss for my trip, 1 under 100ml toothpaste, toothbrush
• 1 Diva Cup ( it makes life easier for that special week each month)
• Nail clippers

➳  Click here for my makeup and a video of my 5-minute makeup routine

Kortney’s favorite natural products

When abroad, you never know what beauty disasters you will face. I suggest heading to Amazon or Target and grabbing a few shampoo bottles and filling it up with these three miracle products before embarking on your journey – they go the mile in emergencies and could be the difference between the perfect trip and a disastrous one.

Coconut Oil – It’s an “all over” body moisturizer, split end remedy, hair mask, lip balm, eye cream and if you have foot blisters from walking, a quick layer of coconut oil will help it heal faster.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Great to use when your hair needs extra shine and a great skin exfoliator when your dull skin needs to return to regular vibrancy. Also, this is great to sanitize your toothbrush with so it stays on top of its hygiene game – a necessary travel must.

Tea Tree Oil – When you have a breakout, add a dab of this to the problem area the night before and blemish be gone. Also gross but good to know: if you ever pick up a foot fungus in a hostel or hotel shower (a complete possibility), this will be your best friend as it is loaded with anti-fungal properties.

Baking Soda – Pack a zip-locked plastic bag with a few tablespoons of baking soda. Mix with your toothpaste to keep teeth super white (even when you’re home, you’ll never go to a dentist for bleaching again).

Low Maintenance Hair Tips

Hair is the silent sufferer when it comes to long-term travel. From jumping off the notoriously dry environment of airplanes to being thrashed by wind to saltwater dips in the sea and constantly sleeping on different surfaces – your hair suffers, and the influx of dead ends post-trip will show you that.

Before embarking on a trip around the world, your first order of hair business should be to go to a cut and color that will grow with you over the next several months. You want to remain photogenic for capturing all those breathtaking moments abroad, so be sure you pick a cut that doesn’t require maintenance.

Follow these hair mantras while abroad and it will save your locks damage:

• Always put your hair into a braid before sleeping and while in airplanes (otherwise it acts as a net for germs)
• Pack a silk pillowcase – these do wonders for maintaining hair shine and minimizing tangles (and stressful brush sessions) in the morning
• Apply coconut oil to your ends before sleeping
• Wash only once per week and use dry shampoo in meantime
• When washing, condition twice with special attention on ends
• Let your hair dry naturally and never sleep with wet hair
• Use shampoo and conditioner free of Sulfates
• Do a low-maintenance hair mask when you can

Be sure to book a hair appointment for when you get back home (at least for a trim), but the tips above should keep your locks in glam status as you trek around the world.

Other Essentials –

Backpacks, theft proof gear, and purses.

So what do you put all of this lovely stuff in? What else do you absolutely need to bring in order to make your packing list complete? Kortney and I are splitting this section with our respective ideas of what is almost always a good idea to bring along.

I rotate between the following 3 backpacks, and have for about 3 years now:

• If you plan to pack carry-on only,  Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 : This is a very simple and straightforward backpack with all of the awesome anti-theft technology, and I especially like that it opens up like a suitcase.
• If you need that extra space,  PacSafe Venturesafe Exp55 : Pacsafe is known for their anti-theft technology. For this bag, I like that it has locking zippers.
• REI Venus 70L: This is my trekking backpack. I also use it if I’m in extreme climates on the opposite end of the spectrum and am having a tough time keeping my load light. I’m sad to report I can’t find it on REI’s website and this is the highest rated alternative I could find.

Shoulder bag-wise, I alternate between a larger Citysafe bag and a smaller crossbody bag both from Pacsafe.

➳ Click here to see the best travel purses for women

For my electronics, I love this sturdy bag in transit since it holds my computer and my camera equipment, and I love taking it on hikes. It’s like, fits my body snugly, and it also has locking zippers.

➳ Click here to see the best electronic bag for travel

It’s also good to have a headlamp in case power goes out or you’re sharing a room or camping, a pack towel in case you need to have your own, and I like to buy local SIM cards and put them into my unlocked phone so that I always have a GPS handy.

Finally, the two most important things I have are my packing cube and my wire mesh bag protector . I use them both constantly. The packing cube allows me to bring way more stuff than I otherwise could since it compresses my clothing. It’s amazing that after 6 years it still hasn’t broken considering the abuse I put it though. Best $20 purchase ever!

The bag protector has served as my stuff’s loyal protector for 5 years when there weren’t lockers or safes. I know it seems like this won’t ever happen but actually, this happens all the time if you head off the beaten path.

Kortney adds:

There are several items that go the mile and are versatile enough to pull off for multiple occasions and travel situations:

• A light oversized scarf – Whether bundling up on airplanes, covering up your shoulders in order to enter churches in Italy or keeping you warm during unexpected cold fronts, an oversized scarf from a lightweight material (think cotton) goes a long way. Avoid patterns and stick to a color you love that can be paired with all your outfits.
• The versatile chic sneaker – You’ll want walking shoes that can handle hills without making you appear as the obsequious tourist. I’m a fan of converse or an all-white pair of Adidas. If you can’t commit to keeping white clean, both nude and blush sneakers are available to keep looks neutral, chic and functional all at the same time.
• One-piece bathing suits – I always pack a couple one-piece bathing suits when going on a long-haul trip because they also pair well with skirts, jeans and shorts (and beach time, of course).
• Silky or lightweight patterned pajama bottoms – Perfect for both PJs and pulling off during daytime, patterned silky pajamas are comfortable and functional whether turning in or going on a day of casual adventures
• Oversized Fedora – Perfect for city adventures, beach time and hiding jet lag when all else fails, every world traveler needs a designated adventure hat. Try to pick a material that is light enough for warm climates but also can be pulled off in colder environments.

Packing light

I traveled for an entire year with just a carry on bag in Southeast Asia. I did it again in Africa the following year, and again that following summer in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. If I can possibly carry my stuff on and not check a bag, that’s what I do. I save time, money, headache over lost bags, and my back. It’s a win-win.

I made a video detailing how I do that here:

Think it can’t work for the winter? Think again! Here’s a video to show you how:

The makeup products to pack for long-term travel:

• Tinted moisturizer
• Moisture-rich lip glass,
• Blush or bronzer

For your makeup bag, Kortney suggests keeping it simple and minimal: five makeup items or less, two facial care products, and sunscreen (the latter being the more important foundation of any healthy glow). In total, your cosmetic bag should have no more than eight products. Yes, it’s doable, and no, it’s not crazy!

What technology should you bring?

Should you bring a computer, camera, iPad, etc. with you?

How much technology you bring depends on what kind of trip this will be for you. If you’re trying to work, then bring something with a keyboard. I used to think that would only mean bringing a computer but lately I am loving my iPad and keyboard.

I’ve covered my gear here. If you’re particularly interested in photography, I also talk about what I use, how I edit, and how I take selfies to help you out.

For digital nomads, I’ve put together a packing list to help you out.

At the very least, I’d bring an unlocked smartphone that you can put local SIMs into. It’s the cheapest way to stay connected and can be a lifesaver if you’re lost or stranded.

Which insurance should you bring?

The best case scenario is that you won’t ever need it, but if you do need it and you don’t have it, you could be screwed.

It’s taking a gamble to travel without insurance. In many developing countries, you can pay out of pocket for minor things and it won’t cost you much, but the same places might hold you hostage if something major happens and you can’t pay your hospital bills.

It’s not that expensive to get travel insurance, and it can cover you if you need to be evacuated, something big happens, or if you need a family member to be flown to your side. I have used World Nomads for the past five years because I like that their explorer plan covers the activities that I love, like hiking, skiing, SCUBA diving, and a lot more.

There you have just about everything you need to know about packing. It’s been over five years now that I’ve been roaming and it’s taken me to every continent (save for Antarctica) and to climates I never imagined were livable. There’s so much to see and enjoy, there’s no reason why packing has to be a stressful part of it. I hope this answers your questions, but if any linger, please ask in the comments!

For more advice on specific regions, head to my destinations page , or if you’re looking for costs of the places you want to visit, check out this post with cost breakdowns for every region in the world . 

For more of Kortney’s writings, check out her blog, the Modern Jetsetter .

Happy travels!

The 30 cheapest travel destinations around the world

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which means that if you buy through the link you support the site at no extra cost to you. It helps keep us going! All reviews and suggested items are what we use ourselves and love. 

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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08/16/2017 at 9:34 am

Great tips! Packing is indeed trial and error. It can also make or break your trip that is why a lot of people are stressing a lot in packing. Thank you for sharing your expertise and knowledge. I think I will use some of these tips.

08/17/2017 at 7:23 pm

Wow, what an extensive packing list! Thanks for sharing this.

08/17/2017 at 10:31 pm

Thanks to both of you for providing such a great list. Definitely will keep this in my favorites and refer to it when planning to travel to areas I am not familiar with. This would make a great book (or e-book) to publish! I think a lot of people would purchase it! The videos about packing for winter and “like a boss” are great, informative but also entertaining! You have a great sense of humor! The information and great presentation make up for any loss in visual quality. The ideas about putting electric cords in the packed shoes is really smart and how you had a “dirty” and “clean” side (I kind of do that too!). Another thing about packing that I noticed is that there are no air pockets, everything is tightly folded and rolled. I knew someone in the military who could pack so much and told me about that. Most importantly you are so pragmatic about things including how to make it look like you aren’t wearing the same outfits through making it so you can switch out and trade with a friend of similar build. I have one question for you. Might seem crazy but I don’t own a smart phone or iPad. You are very pragmatic, sensible, and understanding so I trust your opinion and thoughts. Is it time for me to ditch the dumb phone and join the rest of the world with a smart phone or iPad as part of my mandatory items when traveling? (I manage without it up to now, but am I asking for trouble?)

08/20/2017 at 9:24 pm

Regarding my should be in a book comment: Is this list also in the “Packing it In” section of “Conquering Mountains: A Guide to Solo Female Travel”? If so, I guess it is already a chapter in one of your books! Oops, perhaps I should read it! It looks like a great book. If not, maybe part of a sequel? 🙂

Kristin says

08/21/2017 at 12:53 am

The book does include packing lists, yes, plus a lot more of my tech gear

08/18/2017 at 9:29 am

I love this packing list and tips! This will definitely work for all my vacations no matter where I’m going, thanks! Elise ~ http://www.elisebythepiece.com

Izy Berry says

08/20/2017 at 8:54 am

I swear by my Pacsafe too! And yes, yes, definite yes to the many functional uses of a scarf!

Pilot Mark says

08/23/2017 at 2:35 pm

A fantastic, extensive list. It´s very important to highlight the different things needed in different climates..which is what makes packing so hard for a long trip which involves varying climates! This list is definitely a go-to in those situations. I´ve also made a travel checklist – there´s no makeup on mine though!

08/24/2017 at 9:59 am

In that case I advocate layers and things that can be multipurpose! Means one has to get creative with his/her wardrobe but that is kind of fun, too.

Kay Nguyen says

08/24/2017 at 7:11 am

Great guide, I love it! Thanks for sharing <3

08/25/2017 at 6:20 am

Quite comprehensive. Thanks.

AHMED IJAZ says

08/26/2017 at 12:36 pm

Great list! Packing is very important when traveling, specially if for a longer period of time. Your post has given me great tips to work on improving my current packing items. Thanks for sharing this and your advise.

08/28/2017 at 3:51 am

Packing for me is the worst. Always want to take too much and dont know what to bring and what not. Thanks fpr yours ideas, definetly come back to them when Ill go on a trip next time.

Alexandra says

08/31/2017 at 7:39 pm

I’ve tried searching on line but didn’t find an answer…in your experience do you think a 45 liter backpack (with an additional 10 liter option depending on the extension) could make it as a carry on if I keep it at the 45 liter size? Will be trying carry on only for my first time! Great website and tips by the way, I share it as much as I can for other travelers! Thanks!

09/04/2017 at 8:21 pm

It depends on the airline. I think that 40 is probably the max I would attempt.

Kathryn says

12/15/2017 at 9:11 am

Packing is my worst nightmare. This list will now help me a lot on my next solo trip. Thank You.

Anonymous says

03/07/2018 at 5:59 am

Just wondering if you’ve ever had to submit a claim through World Nomads – and if it’s been a smooth process?

Thanks in advance, Margot

03/07/2018 at 4:04 pm

I never have, tbh.

10/05/2018 at 12:26 pm

Thank you for the great info. Do you know if World Nomad also covers in the US? As in, when I return from my long trip – do I have a certain amount of time in which I’m covered in the US?

10/08/2018 at 6:23 pm

No it does not! Not unless you’re over 100 miles from home.

11/12/2018 at 9:42 am

Do you have any suggestions for safe drinking water? Have you ever used a steripen?

11/12/2018 at 11:06 am

I tend to use a Steripen, yes. It’s also important to know if the water is coming out of lead pipes or if it’s treated wit chemicals. It’s possible that you won’t even want to use a steripen, but might prefer bottled. If so you can cut down on plastic by buying larger bottles if you know you’ll be somewhere for a while, and refilling a nalgene or something similar.

11/05/2019 at 8:35 am

Honestly i don’t know what is the best packing list for me to travel like what you did. You really helps young people like to travel with your tips. You have a lot of places visited with your itinerary. This gives travelers a confidence to travel in some areas. Thank you Kristin.

Rebecca says

06/29/2020 at 9:54 am

This is exactly what I was looking for! Your packing tips are very helpful and should be followed by everyone that needs guide and help with packing.

Cristina says

08/11/2020 at 12:34 pm

I am planning to travel for a long period next year, so I found your packing list super helpful. Thank you so much for sharing 🙂

08/12/2020 at 3:32 pm

Carol Eldridge says

07/03/2022 at 7:48 am

What clothing is recommended for Germany in November? Thank you!

07/05/2022 at 3:12 pm

Warm clothes! It’s basically winter. Rain gear would also be smart.

A Minimalist Packing List for Females Who Don’t Want to Look Like Crap

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2022

Categories Travel Tips

The Subtle Art of Creating a Minimalist Packing List for Females (And You’ll Still Be Photo Ready)

We’ve all skipped the minimalist packing list and packed way too much for our first trip (#travelfail).

After lugging around a behemoth bag that makes you look like a demented drug mule from Brokedown Palace, you quickly ascertain that maybe creating a minimalist packing list for females is a good idea.

In Truth Though:

Everyone wants to look good but no one wants to haul around luggage that gives you perpetual backs spasms and a spinal column that virtually cries out, “No more weight!” (Hello, Doogie Houser, I need help. Stat).

How I feel every time I try and pack.

Yes, even this elastic wearing, makeup-less, non-glamorous traveler doesn’t wanna look like total crap in her Instagram photos (Smise Kelly, Smise for the love of God).

Well, this is the question of the hour, isn’t it? What kind of sorcery do you need to look good while packing less?

Well, this post is here to help (Not like you got that from the title or anything. LoL).

I am gonna create a minimalist packing list for females that will actually help you pack less but still look good and maybe even better!

But Since You Have a Life:

Let’s stop with the nonsense and look at some minimalist packing tips that won’t have strangers throwing change at you because they think you’re homeless.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. 

If you’re booking a trip right now then I IMPLORE you to get travel insurance – even if it’s not from me.

After all, this past year has been a wild ride and I don’t want you to lose money because government regulations have changed. 

Truth be told though, I’ve never traveled without travel insurance and don’t think you should either – especially since I think we’ve all had plans drastically change because of the pandemic. 

Therefore, find an insurance agency that covers travel changes related to COVID-19, like my two all-time faves World Nomads and  Safety Wing . You can also read more about which policy is right for you in  my full review here .

1. Packing Cubes are Your New Best Friend

When I go on any trip (Cold, warm, long, short), I always carry two bags: one backpack and one day bag. Both fit on the airplane and NEVER exceed the carry-on weight limit of a budget airline like Norwegian (I Love).

One of the main reasons I can do this is because of packing cubes; an ultra-minimalist packing girl’s new BFF!

Clothing is typically packed in very compact fabric containers called packing cubes, which are frequently rectangular in shape. They are compact enough to accommodate many in a carry-on luggage, suitcase, or backpack and have a zip-closed closure.

Clothing compression (to a limited extent) and packing organization are both maintained by packing cubes. This is vital. A well-organized bag will make packing and repacking easier for you and will make it easier to find items fast.

You May Be Wondering?

Why are they so important? No, they are not gilded with gold. What they actually do is help squeeze out any dead space in between your clothes so that you have more room in your bag.

Just think of those vacuum sealed bags that suck out all the air. Because of them, everything shrinks like 10,000%. So yeah, that’s kind of how these work.

No Worries:

The bags don’t have to be fancy though. You could use a large Ziploc bag and it would work the same way.

2. Buy Carry On Bags that You Don’t Mind walking Around With .

Let’s be real, some of those industrial-looking, travel backpacks are absolutely heinous. I mean, my dad wouldn’t even carry one, let alone me. So why on Earth would you schlepp a bag around that makes you look like a sherpa?

That’s Why:

You need to get a bag that is functional but that looks good when you’re walking around during the day and night. Sure it needs to be big enough to hold all your stuff, but not so big that it looks like luggage.

So What’s My Go to Carry On ?

Believe it or not, I bring two bags with me on every trip and I love them. I have a fjallraven backpack that is deceptively large, super cute, and come in a bunch of colors.

But That’s Not All:

I also have a Longchamp, over the shoulder bag that is great because it holds a ton of stuff but is also fashionable enough to pass as an evening bag if I want to go out for dinner or look like a mildly important person. I usually get a feminine looking color to make me look mildly fashionable.

Whatever You Do, Do Not:

Get a huge ass bag. The bigger your bag, the more you will cram in there. Therefore, go for a smaller bag so that it is humanly impossible for you to pack more than you need.

3. Pack Wrinkle Free Fabrics

Raise your hand if you want to bring an iron or a steamer with you on vacation? No one? Yeah, me either.

I have never used an iron or a steamer in my life. I know, super weird but that’s why I am super familiar with fabrics that DON”T wrinkle. No way am I doing any of that crap on vacation. Nope, not my idea of a hopping good time.

When you pack, try and pack items that are made of wool, lyocell (a semisynthetic form of rayon), polyester (I swear, it’s not as gross as you think), cashmere (if you have a trust fund), knit, and spandex.

The Result:

You could probably stomp on these fabrics like they stomped on the grapes in that  I Love Lucy wine making episode, and you’ll probably still look all put together and wrinkle-free for an impromptu photo op.

4. Pack a pair of Boots and a Cute Pair of Walking Shoes

I generally stay away from sneakers when traveling because I look like I’m either going to the gym or like I’m a soccer mom in training. Both of which are not my fave looks.

No way in hell am I walking around a city in a heel of any kind. Not only do they make my feet scream, “Mercy” but I also tend to look like a little girl who is incapable of walking in her mom’s heels. Only not cute because I’m an adult.

I am that baby calf.

The Solution:

That’s why generally speaking (unless it’s insanely hot), I wear a pair of black, zip-up boots on the plane, and then pack a pair of comfy ballet flats or cute, slip-on sneakers.

Not only do the boots dress up almost any outfit, but they are easy to get on and off ( great for airport security ) and keep your feet warm on notoriously cold planes (I found the polar vortex). Plus if you wear your heavy boots you’ll free up some room to pack other things.

Onto my pair of comfy flats. Whether I wear slip-on sneakers or ballet flats, I usually stick with black since it goes with almost everything and doesn’t show the dirt (this way I don’t look like a slob). So you can look nice and still manage to be comfortable while saving space in your carry on. A total win all around.

Roll all your clothes, don’t pack bulky jeans that retain odors, and pack your socks/underwear rolled up together and placed inside your shoes, to save room.

5. Pack 3 of everything and that’s it (besides underwear).

Look, the key to packing like a minimalist and creating a minimalist travel wardrobe is mixing and matching. So whatever you pack, make sure it’s neutral enough to be worn with anything else you pack. This way you can create a bunch of outfits without packing too much.

I know it’s Shocking:

So true, it hurts.

But you can actually wear things twice without smelling like a barnyard. Just be smart about it and you’ll be fine. And if you’re worried about being stank, just stuff some dryer sheets in your carry-on and you’ll be smelling fresh, clean, and totally pristine.

If you get cold, pack either a warm wool sweater, a cardigan, or a nice looking sweatshirt so that you can look good without freezing to death. I mean, some jackets look great but when it actually comes to keeping you warm, not so much.

It Gets Better:

Really wanna stay warm but not look like you came out of a Walmart catalog? Pashminas are perfect! Not only are they warm, but they can also act like a blanket/pillow on the plane. Plus, if you purchase a colorful one, they can add a pop of color to your outfit and jazz things up a bit (insert awful jazz hands here).

One More Thing:

Sometimes I’ll sub out a shirt/pant combo for a dress that I can dress up with black leggings and a cardigan. Just depends on where you’re going and what you’re doing.

6. Buy an Inflatable neck pillow and a roll-up water Bottle

Not gonna lie, both of these items have changed the travel game for me. I almost sort of feel like I’m doing extreme minimalist travel. Except I’m not Bear Grylls or anything. 

Half the time my water bottle and neck pillow took up so much room in my bag that I couldn’t pack much else. They were just so big and bulky but there was no way that I could leave them at home. The necessary evils of packing.

This is where the inflatable neck pillow comes in. You can now have the comfort of a neck pillow without using up so much real estate in your bag.

But It Gets Better:

Same goes for your water bottle too. Just squeeze out the excess air, roll it up, and you’re good to go, with a ton of extra space for packing travel essentials like candy bars for the plane. Trust me, you don’t want me hangry.

7. Accessorize

Instead of bringing like fifty different outfits on vacation, diversify outfits with small accessories like hats, scarves, and jewelry. These items don’t take up a ton of room and can still add a much-needed pop of color to an otherwise blah outfit. And yes, that’s a technical term.

But Always Remember:

Never pack anything that you can’t bear to lose. So yeah, that engagement ring that your mom bequeathed to you, I would leave it at home.

Trust me, when you travel things can and will go wrong. Therefore, you don’t want to have a post-apocalyptic meltdown because someone lost your bag with a priceless family heirloom inside.

Don’t stress away your vacation. I mean, if you bring something super valuable, all you’ll do is freak out because someone might lose or steal it. So yes, better leave that jewel-encrusted chastity belt at home, sigh.

8. Leave the Makeup at Home

Okay, I know some people probably think I’m insane for saying this but for the love of God, leave the makeup at home. You don’t need to spend your vacation doing your make up. Instead, bring a few small items, like cover-up, eyeliner, mascara, and lip gloss.

You can still look put together without carrying around a crap ton of makeup. I mean, cover up for pimples, eyeliner/mascara, for the smokey eyes, and lip gloss for your lips and as a blush. Boom, you’ll look like a rockstar without packing like one.

I’m Gonna Go Rogue Here:

his is how I look doing my makeup, only not as cool and trendy as Lady Gaga.

So I like to bring a minimal amount of liquids with me when I travel, just cause they are a pain in the ass.

Therefore, I usually will pack a bar of shampoo and use that as my shampoo, body wash, and face cleanser. I know my dermatologist might freak out but whatever.

This trick helps me save space, stay clean, and pack fewer liquids.

One Last Thing:

Oh, and always carry baby wipes so that if you have an accident, like slide down a muddy hill on your ass (not like that actually happened to me or anything), you can clean yourself off and don’t have to walk around all day, looking like you pooped yourself.

9. Only Bring a Few Items that You Really Love

I think as women, we tend to overpack because we want to be prepared for any and every situation humanly possible. You know, kind of like, “Oh, I better pack this wetsuit just in case we go cage diving with Great White Sharks while we’re in South Dakota.”

Don’t pack crap you don’t like or never wear because you want a “selection to choose from”. Just pack a few items that you really like wearing because if you are happy and confident then it’s totally gonna show in your photos and in how you carry yourself.

Embrace the fab life of minimalism and be your best self in a few of your best pieces. Come on, we all have those clothes that we love and that we instantly feel like a model in (Insert duck face here. No bathroom selfies please).

I Almost Forgot:

Light clothes tend to look like crap after a few washes. Or if you’re clumsy like me, they’ll be smeared with rainbow sprinkle stains in about 2.5 seconds (No, this shirt is not tie-dye).

That’s why I try and pack darker colors. Not only are stains (no one likes pit stains) less obvious, but the colors aren’t as likely to bleed into one another in the wash (or if they do it doesn’t matter because you can’t tell).

10. Bring Hair Product

Okay, I know you probably think I’m nuts but hear me out. Now I don’t mean a flat iron and a blow dryer. First of all, tons of hotels have blow dryers and secondly, ain’t nobody got room in their carry on for that.

What I Really Mean Is:

If you know your hair frizzes like a beast when you don’t straighten it, then embrace the frizz girl and bring some hair product that will enhance your curls.

I’m lucky because my hair is naturally straight, but if I’m feeling mildly industrious, I just throw some spray in my hair, scrunch my hair up, and then I’m good to go with a nice curl. Boom, that simple.

Even a fashion-challenged person like me can still manage to look halfway decent without packing a ton of stuff.

11. Limit your toiletries

It totally depends on your particular preferences with this one. Close followers of minimalism may conclude that the only equipment they must pack is a toothbrush.

Others who are less experienced travelers could decide to take smaller versions of all the liquids, cleansers, and small tools they will require.

All of these things can fit into a tiny travel pouch for toiletries, which will be handy if you ever need it.

As a general guideline, keep in mind that you probably won’t need every single cleanser and lip balm you typically use each day.

Make an effort to cross off any non-essential items from your list of toiletries as well.

When traveling, you most certainly do not need to look flawless or have perfectly gelled hair, so be careful to decide which items and routines you can leave behind.

Final Call for this Minimalist Packing List for Females

Look, even if you think this article was whack and that I am totally full of crap, just remember one thing; anything you forget you can always buy there.

In reality, you’re gonna forget stuff and that’s okay.

Don’t stress and ruin your vacation because you forget a pair of shoes. It’s all good.

No need to pack for the Arctic tundra because they have stores there and nine times out of ten you’ll totally be able to buy whatever you’re looking for.

Vacation is supposed to be fun so don’t let the stress of packing overwhelm you. Keep it easy, fun, and lighthearted and remember that it will all work out fine.

I once had my entire bag stolen out of a train station luggage locker in Stockholm, Sweden. So if I lived to tell the tale then you can survive any and all packing debacles too.

Thursday 19th of December 2019

What a great list and I love your quirky sense of humor. ;) I’ve done several trips including a month long trip to Lima, Peru with the same bag set up - my Le Pliage tote and Kanken, it was perfect.

girlwiththepassport

Oh thank you so much for reading and that is awesome! Sounds like you've got it all figured out!

Saturday 19th of January 2019

Thanks for the tips! I am preparing for winter trip to Japan and could not decide which clothes/jeans/Shoes to take. Now I need to make a list based on this post!

Monday 21st of January 2019

I am so happy you found it helpful. And have an amazing time! Wish i was visiting Japan.

Saturday 22nd of September 2018

Wow, that's indeed a perfect minimalist packing list for Females. Loved the way you how you described the solution to every problem & the question arises during packing. A must-read article for everyone.

Sunday 23rd of September 2018

Oh thank you so much. I am so glad to hear that you found it useful.

Kathy Gutierrez

Tuesday 28th of August 2018

I am preparing for a six week trip to the UK, Ireland, and Germany. I am going to have to pack a medium sized suitcase and a carry-on. I am just learning how to do the minimalist thing because I am the queen of over packing. I know between now and April 3rd, 2019 I will pack and unpack a dozen times!

By the way, I swear by packing cubes!! And, I always roll my clothes! What a great way to save space and lessen wrinkles!

Wednesday 29th of August 2018

I am so excited for you! That sounds like a really fun trip. And right? Packing cubes and rolling clothes are life and I used to do the same thing. Now, no matter how long the trip, I only pack a handbag and carryon backpack! Thanks for visiting and let me know how the trip goes!

Neal Rivkin

Monday 9th of July 2018

This post has supplied me some good ideas for my new blog. It's always nice to find decent content that encourages new ideas, thanks.

So glad to hear that you think so

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Travel Essentials for Women: 50+ Must-Haves for Any Trip + Packing List (Free Download)

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Hand luggage packing list

Handbag essentials for women

• Mobile phone
• Tickets / Itinerary
• Accommodation details
• Travel insurance documents
• Vaccination certificates
• Money and credit/debit card
• Keys (to your home and/or car)
• Medicine / Vitamins
• Travel-size toiletries
• Hand sanitiser
• Travel adapter
• Portable charger
• Travel pillow / Eye mask
• Headphones / Earbuds
• Refillable water bottle
• Books or Kindle
• Sunglasses, prescription glasses and contact lenses (solutions for this can go in hold luggage)
• Fold-up tote bag

Checked-in or hold luggage packing list 

Toiletry packing list (female)

• Dental floss or interdental brushes
• Conditioner
• Body wash or soap
• Facial cleanser
• Facial toner
• Facial moisturiser
• Face and body sunscreen
• Make-up remover
• Shaving or waxing items
• Feminine hygiene items (tampons, sanitary pads, menstrual cup etc)
• Nail clippers
• TravelHair dryer 
• Hair styling items (flat iron, curling iron etc)
• First aid kit and other items such as paracetamol, anti-diarrhoea tablets and rehydration sachets, and insect repellent. For cuts, bites, and stings, an antihistamine cream or tablets,

Clothing packing list for women

• Vests / Bras
• Nightwear / Pyjamas
• Tops / Shirts
• Sweaters / Sweatshirts
• Jeans / Trousers
• Socks / Stockings
• Formal wear (if required)
• Swimwear cover up (such as a sarong)
• Jackets / Coats
• Gloves / Scarves 
• Trainers / Walking shoes
• High heeled shoes for evening if required
• Sandals / Flip flops / Beach footwear
• Jewellery (do not bring expensive items as they could get lost or stolen)
• Exercise clothes

Summary On Travel Essentials For Women

Are you ready to pack your bags yet? Don’t forget these essential items! 

A refillable water bottle, travel pillow and eye mask set, carry-on toiletries, travel adapter, and your prescribed medications are absolute must-haves. However, make sure to leave full-size shampoo bottles and shaving items alongside your clothes in your checked-in luggage to avoid any issues at security. Better still, don’t take full size bottles – decant them into smaller containers so you have just enough for your stay and get more luggage space! 

Depending on your destination, stocking a first-aid kit might look slightly different – but don’t travel without one, especially if you have a medical condition. Some must-have items will include painkillers, bandages and plasters, insect repellent, rehydration sachets, and anti-diarrhoea tablets. Finally, bring any medical or travel documents you’ll need, and don’t forget your passport and travel money!

Download our comprehensive packing list here to use at home, and let us know in the comments below which items you absolutely can’t travel without! We’d love to hear from you.

FAQ on Travel Essentials For Women

Do you still have some questions or concerns about packing for your holiday? Read below for some frequently asked questions by travellers like you.

What everyday things are not allowed on planes?

For safety reasons, you may be prohibited from packing certain items in your hold luggage. These include lighters, flammable liquids such as acetone or aerosol cans, non-safety matches, vapes and e-cigarettes, lithium batteries, toy guns and more – however, some of these items may be allowed in your hand luggage. Check your airline’s website for a comprehensive list.

What is the 3 1 1 rule?

The 3-1-1 rule refers to the amount of liquids you can bring in your carry-on bag when you fly. Each liquid, cream or paste needs to be in a 100ml or less container (3.5 ounces, which is the “3” in 3-1-1), placed in a single clear plastic bag (“1”). Finally, one passenger is only allowed one plastic bag (“1”).

What is the most common thing people forget on vacation?

Travel essentials women often forget include umbrellas, glasses and contact lenses, and toothbrushes – while you may be able to purchase some of these at your destination, you could really do without the added stress! To avoid getting caught out without an important item, make sure to write down a list of everything you’ll need while travelling and once at your destination, or refer to our comprehensive list above.

Related Posts On Travel Essentials For Women

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• The Best Essential Oils To Take On Vacation: Top 10 Must-Haves And How To Use Them

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Vacation Packing List: 27 Essentials for Any Trip

W hile 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.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Vacation Packing List

For the journey

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

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

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 .

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For the vacation

Walking shoes.

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

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.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans
• How to Renew Your Passport
• TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Is Right for You?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

26 Stress-Free Packing Tips for Travel

Updated : June 24, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, Patricia Miller

Table of contents, pre-packing preparation, packing strategies and space savers, special considerations, additional travel tips for packing , pack for your dream trip with aaa travel.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of packing for a trip? We've created this comprehensive guide to simplify the process and alleviate any travel prep stress. 

Whether you're exploring a top travel US destination or venturing abroad, these packing tips for travel are designed to help you easily conquer your packing to-do 

list. Read on to discover hacks for maximizing space and travel essentials you never knew you needed. 

Before you dive headfirst into packing, a little preparation can go a long way in saving you time and stress. Here are some tips to keep your packing process organized.

1. Start Planning Early

First and foremost, give yourself plenty of time to pack. It’s a good idea to start planning 2-3 weeks ahead of time. Whenever you think of something you’ll need, jot it down or make a list on an app. Even better, leave your suitcase where you can see it and throw things into it during the weeks leading up to your trip. 

2. Research the Destination

Before diving into packing, especially for international travel , take a deep breath and research your destination. Understanding the climate, culture and any local restrictions will be your packing compass. 

Will there be cool evenings that require a light jacket? Is it the rainy season, necessitating an umbrella? Knowing these things beforehand can help you avoid overpacking unnecessary items or feeling out of place. 

It's important for women traveling alone to research cultural or legal dress codes in their destination country. For example, when traveling to Italy, consider bringing a shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting churches. With a little research, your suitcase will reflect your destination and not just your wardrobe. 

3. Choose Your Luggage

Choosing the right luggage is key to a smooth packing experience. Think about the length of your trip and your mode of transportation. Weekend getaways may just need a carry-on, while longer adventures may require a checkable bag. 

Consider a travel pack for hands-free travel or a suitcase with maneuverable wheels for navigating airports and uneven terrain. Opt for a well-made, lightweight option that prioritizes durability and ease of movement.

4. Create a Travel Checklist

Creating a travel checklist streamlines your packing process, ensuring you don't miss anything essential. Start by planning outfits for each day of your trip, considering your itinerary and weather conditions. 

This not only ensures you pack everything you need but also helps avoid overpacking similar items. With a checklist in hand, you've conquered packing anxiety and are ready to explore!

H3: 5. Place Necessities in Carry-on

Stow necessities in your carry-on. This may seem too obvious, but medicine, expensive tech equipment, jewelry and essential toiletries are things you don’t want to lose and should keep close at hand.

In the unfortunate case that your luggage is lost or delayed, having your essential items will ensure you can get by on your trip until your situation is resolved. Consider also packing a change of clothes so you have a clean outfit to wear while you wait for your bag to arrive.  

Your research and prep work are done! Now that those empty suitcases are staring you down, let's explore some space-saving packing strategies to keep everything efficient and organized. 

6. Utilize Packing Cubes

Invest in a set of packing cubes to keep items separated. This will make finding things in your luggage, like your first pajamas for unwinding at the hotel, a breeze. The packing cubes keep your neatly folded or rolled clothes from wrinkling.  

7. Embrace Rolling Your Clothes

Speaking of rolling clothes, many travelers firmly believe it’s the best way to keep your garments crease-free. Here's how to do it: 

• Lay your clothing piece flat and smooth out any wrinkles. 
• Fold a small section of the piece at the bottom inward. 
• Start tightly rolling from the bottom to the top. Use a tie or soft ribbon to secure the piece from unrolling. 

This is a great space-saving technique that allows you to fit more into your bag.

8. Pack Versatile Clothing

Packing multiple outfits with your clothing pieces minimizes what you need to bring. Plan on wearing versatile neutrals like beige, navy and black, which mix and match well, allowing you to create multiple looks with a few key pieces.

 For a pop of color, a scarf or jewelry does the trick nicely without taking up valuable luggage space. And remember, dark colors don't show spills as much as light colors do. Along with neutral colors, items that are classic cuts, like button-down shirts or a maxi dress that can transform from day to night, are ideal.

9. Lean on the Power of Layers

Packing versatile pieces that you can layer allows you to conquer a wider range of activities and temperatures. Consider bringing lightweight tank tops or tees, which you can easily warm up with a cardigan or sweater.

A fluffy scarf can be used for both chilly evenings and as a cozy airplane blanket during your flight. By layering, you pack less while maximizing your outfit options.

10. Consider Laundry Options

Researching laundry options at your destination allows you to pack lighter. Check if your accommodation has in-unit laundry or if there are laundromats nearby. Pack a travel-sized detergent or invest in convenient detergent sheets for handwashing in your sink.  

Prioritize quick-drying fabrics and versatile pieces that mix and match, creating multiple outfits. By planning for on-the-go laundry, you can pack fewer clothes and avoid overpacking. 

11. Stay Connected With Chargers

Pack an extra phone charger and a portable power bank. It’s easy and fun to take photos for Instagram with your smartphone, but you can wear your battery down quicker than you may realize. And trying to find an outlet in a public place to charge your phone when your battery is at 4 percent power is almost impossible.

A portable power bank can give your phone a much-needed boost to keep you capturing your adventures throughout the day. Just remember to charge the power bank before you head out the door! 

12. Pack Light on Toiletries

Bring travel sizes of grooming items like toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant, or fill up little empties with your favorite brand to save valuable space in your suitcase. To prevent leaks during transport, be sure to pack your travel tubes in a sealable plastic bag. Consider using solid toiletries like shampoo and conditioner bars to maximize space and minimize spills.

13. Separate Your Shoes From Clothes

Put shoes in thin plastic bags like a grocery bag or dry cleaning bag to keep them from touching your clean clothes. Pack footwear and other heavy things at the bottom of your suitcase to keep your clothes from wrinkling. This also helps distribute the weight evenly, making your suitcase easier to move.

14. Keep Your Clothes Smelling Fresh 

For an extra touch of freshness, tuck a fabric softener sheet into your suitcase. While it won't necessarily remove wrinkles, it can help minimize mild odors and leave your clothes smelling pleasant when you unpack. Avoid using too many sheets, as the scent can overwhelm a confined space.

15. Maximize Dead Space

The key to packing like a pro lies in maximizing space. This means conquering every nook and cranny of your suitcase. Start by stuffing socks, underwear and other small items into shoes to fill their empty space. 

Take advantage of rolled-up scarves, smaller tank tops or even rolled clothes to fill in those hard-to-reach areas. Remember, every bit of space you save means more room for those trip souvenirs!

16. Try the 5-4-3-2-1 Packing Method

Struggling with overpacking? The 5-4-3-2-1 method can help! This simple rule ensures you safe space by only packing what you need:

• Four bottoms
• Three accessories
• One swimsuit 

For maximum outfit creation potential, stick to a similar color palette for your clothing. This allows for easy mixing and matching throughout your trip

17. Wear Bulkier Clothes on the Plane

Airplane cabins can get chilly, especially if the air conditioning is blasting. To fight the cold and free up space in your suitcase, consider wearing your bulkier clothes onto the plane. This could include a sweater, a heavier jacket or bigger boots.

 This method will keep you comfortable during your flight, but also allow you to pack lighter. Remember to choose clothing items that are easy to layer and remove as temperatures change during your journey to your destination. 

Not every trip is the same? When it comes to how to pack for a trip, there are special considerations to tackle, from navigating airline restrictions to conquering diverse climates.

18. Pack for Your Itinerary  

When booking your trip, you probably have a good idea of the activities you'll enjoy during your stay. Translate that itinerary into your suitcase! Long days of sightseeing call for comfortable walking shoes and versatile layers that adapt to changing temperatures. 

Prioritizing poolside relaxation? Pack breezy clothes and a couple of swimsuits. Don't forget any special events or excursions—a dressier outfit for a fancy dinner or adventure-ready gear for planned hikes will ensure you're prepared. Planning outfits around your itinerary will help you feel comfortable and confident throughout your trip—and ready to tackle anything that comes your way.

19. Consider Packing Essentials for Young Children

Traveling with young children requires extra planning, from transportation to packing. While your itinerary is the most important, prioritize packing essentials to keep your little’s content and comfortable. Pack familiar items, like their favorite stuffed animal or blanket, for when they need to relax or take a nap. 

Remember special medications, extra pairs of clothes for accidental messes and clothing layers for the plane. Pack plenty of healthy, high-protein snacks and nutritious food bars to keep your little ones happy and fueled throughout the journey. These essential travel survival tools will help create a smoother travel experience for your family. 

20. Bring Home With You

Throw in some scented soap to add a touch of familiarity to your bath routine. Use a favorite scent to make you feel more at home and relaxed at the end of a long day of exploring your destination. Know your bathroom will have a tub? Consider packing a bath bomb to add another layer of relaxation to your bathtub routine. 

21. Prepare for Bad Weather 

Be prepared for bad weather and pack proper gear. Even sunnier forecasts can shift quickly, so layering with breathable layers is a smart idea. If you find yourself in a sudden thunderstorm, you’ll be glad you brought a mini umbrella, a light raincoat and a cheap plastic rain poncho. 

22. Bring an Empty Water Bottle

Stash an empty water bottle in your carry-on to fill at water fountains. This way, you won’t have to throw away unfinished bottled drinks as you go through the TSA security screening line or wait for the flight attendant to bring you a beverage.

Using a reusable bottle is both eco-friendly and can also save you money on overpriced bottles of water you find in airport shops.

23. Remember To Pack for Your Service Animal

Just like you, your furry friend will need essentials while traveling. Pack food, medication and waste disposal bags to last the trip duration, and include extra in case of any delays. 

Don’t forget their favorite couple of toys and a copy of their service certification, in case it’s requested. By planning ahead, you and your service animal can enjoy a smooth and stress-free adventure. 

Below are some final travel packing tips to consider for a perfectly polished packing job. 

24. Weigh Your Bag 

Skip the baggage fee surprise! Before your trip, weigh your luggage at home with a handy luggage scale. Knowing your bag's weight beforehand allows you to strategically redistribute items or maximize your carry-on allowance if needed. Remember, airlines have strict weight limits. A little pre-departure planning can save you money, frustration and a last-minute scramble at the airport. 

25. Protect Your Valuables

There are a few ways you can actively protect your valuables, even after you hand over your checked bag at the airport: 

• Utilize TSA-approved locks: If you must pack valuables in your checked bag, invest in a TSA-approved lock. These allow security checks while keeping your belongings secure.
• Carry-on essentials: Keep important documents, medications and a small amount of cash in your carry-on for easy access and peace of mind in case of checked luggage delays.
• Consider a Pacsafe: These travel bags feature slash-resistant materials and unique locking mechanisms, offering an extra layer of security in crowded areas like airports or busy cities.
• AirTag or Tile your luggage: adding an AirTag or a Tile to your luggage can add peace of mind if the unfortunate situation occurs in which your suitcase is lost.

By following these tips, you can travel with confidence and know your valuables are protected. 

26. Complete a Final Bag Check 

Once you’re fully packed and weighed your luggage, take a few minutes to ensure a smooth departure. Run through your travel checklist to confirm all items are accounted for.

Review your planned outfits, making sure you've packed everything you need. Finally, pack any comfort essentials for your plane ride, like a travel neck pillow, earplugs or a good book. With a quick final check, you can confidently head to the airport, ready for a stress-free start to your adventure.

Streamline your trip planning and packing with AAA Travel . AAA membership grants you peace of mind throughout your entire vacation, from pre-trip planning to enjoying your time away and even returning home.  

Our extensive services include exclusive member benefits, travel savings, map routing and expert travel planning. Make AAA your one-stop shop for a stress-free and unforgettable travel experience! 

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The Ultimate Safari Packing List

All the gear, accessories, and clothing that’s fit to pack for the perfect safari adventure.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

• Packing Checklist
• What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Kevin Liang

My first-ever safari was a three-day budget camping safari in Kruger National Park run by a hostel. I shared a small 5x5 tent with a friend. Since then, I’ve taken over 150 safaris, running the gamut from bare-bones camping to luxury lodges. I’ve gone from being underprepared to being over-prepared to knowing what safari essentials you should pack no matter where you’re headed or what type of safari experience you’ve booked.

To double-check my checklist, I also reached out to Koen Pretorius, a local safari guide in South Africa, for his expert input on what travelers should pack for a safari. Although his company, Tsala Trails, focuses on luxury walking safaris, his packing suggestions apply to all types of safaris.

For the most part, the products on this list are all items I’ve used (or wish I had), have seen other people use, or were recommended by our expert guide, who reminds you to “prepare for the worst, but go with the flow and enjoy” once you arrive.

Packing Checklist for a Safari

Whether you’re heading out on a walking safari, staying in a basic tented camp, or checking into a luxury lodge, these are the items you’ll want to make sure make it into your bag.

• Best Camera: Nikon Z50 Mirrorless Camera Two Lens Kit
• Best Binoculars: Zeiss 10x42 Terra ED Binoculars
• Best Sunscreen: Thinksport Kid’s Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Best Bug Spray: Off! Familycare Smooth & Dry Aerosole Personal Repellents and Bug Spray
• Best Travel Adapter: Vintar Universal Travel Adaptor Kit
• Best Water Bottle: Brita Stainless Steel Premium Filtering Water Bottle
• Best First-aid Kit: Adventure Store Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit  

Luggage and Accessories

• Best Suitcase: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle Bag
• Best Day Pack: Deuter Speed Lite 21 Pack
• Best Sunglasses for Men: Knockaround Premiums Sport Sunglasses
• Best Sunglasses for Women: Smith Caper 53mm ChromaPop Polarized Square Sunglasses
• Best Sun Hat: Tilly LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Sun Hat
• Best Travel Pill Organizer: Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer

Shoes and Apparel

• Best Sun Shirt: Uniqlo Airism Mesh UV Protection Full-zip Hoodie
• Best Insulating Layer: Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket
• Best Waterproof Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants
• Best Walking Shoes: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
• Best Sandals: Teva Original Universal Sandal

The most important things you’ll pack for your safari aren’t clothing items, but your gear. I’ve included the essential items for most safaris here, but your exact needs will depend on your particular safari destination and the type of safari you’ll be embarking on (camping, walking, or luxury excursions will require different types of gear). Pretorius also says that no matter what type of safari you’re on, small travel towels can come in handy to clean your face from dirt, dust, sweat, or sunscreen. For anyone planning on using their phone to take pictures and videos, packing a portable power bank (like this fast-charging option ) will help make sure you don’t run out of juice and get you powered back up quickly so you don’t miss too many photo ops.

Best Camera

Nikon z50 mirrorless camera two lens kit.

For those who don’t want to rely on their smartphone, which can lose power, overheat, or glitch while on a safari, a handheld camera is a must. Pretorius suggests going for a mirrorless model. I agree and recommend the Nikon Z30 Mirrorless Camera with Two Lens Kit. Mirrorless cameras are much more lightweight than DSLRs and tend to have a faster shooting reaction speed that can make or break a wildlife shot. This Nikon Z50 has 20.9 megapixels, shoots 4K video, and comes with both a 16-50mm that’s good for portraits and a 50-250mm zoom lens that is perfect for wildlife safaris (and the maximum you’ll probably be able to shoot without the image becoming unstable). It can also shoot at a pushed 204800 ISO, which basically means it’s also great for night shots.

Best Binoculars

Zeiss 10x42 terra ed binoculars.

Binoculars are technically optional for a safari, but what’s the point of going on a bucket list trip experience and squinting to see the wildlife? That said, binoculars can be expensive, so you want to make sure to get the best bang for your buck. Pretorius suggests looking for binoculars with good quality lenses that are lightweight and durable with a strength of at least 8x32, 10x28, or 10x32. Our top pick are the Zeiss 10x42 Terra ED Binoculars, which are just over 1.5 pounds and compact. Zeiss glass is considered premium quality, and the 10x42 specs give you both a good depth of field and a steady view. Their weatherproof design keeps them working in temperatures ranging from 24-140 degrees, but they also have a waterproof body, so you don’t have to worry about ruining them if they get wet.

Best Sunscreen

Thinksport kid’s safe sunscreen spf 50+.

While many people remember to pack sunscreen for their safari, they often don’t think twice about how eco-friendly it will be since safaris are primarily a land-based activity. It’s still important to wear eco-friendly sunscreen like Thinksport since any residue will be washed off your body in the shower and eventually absorbed in the ground in the bush. I am a loyal Thinksport fan because their eco-friendly mineral sunscreens have broad-spectrum UV protection, don’t go on greasy (be sure to shake it before applying), and have a minimal white cast. The Kids’ formula is also non-toxic, biodegradable, unscented, and suitable for sensitive skin. Plus, it’s water-resistant and will last for 80 minutes.

Best Bug Spray

Off familycare smooth & dry aerosole personal repellents and bug spray.

Bug spray is available in most safari destinations, but the options may be limited. Bring your own to be safe. I recommend the Smooth and Dry version of Off! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellant. It comes in a convenient four-ounce size that is sure to last for your entire trip, but won’t take up unnecessary room in your day pack. This aerosol formula makes application effortless and even, and it dries without any sticky or greasy residue — there’s nothing worse than sitting in the heat and feeling like you have a coat of chemicals on you. It’s also unscented, which is ideal for heading into wildlife territory. The 15 percent DEET formulation covers a range of insects, from mosquitos to gnats and ticks. It can also safely be sprayed on clothes.

Best Travel Adapter

Vintar universal travel adaptor kit.

The Vintar Universal Travel Adaptor Kit is an essential buy that you can reuse for subsequent trips abroad. Not only is this adaptor beloved and well-priced, but it also stands out because it actually contains a plug adaptor configuration for South Africa. South Africa has a unique plug that is usually only available as its own clunky, pricey plug. I also love the streamlined design of this adaptor unit compared to other units and the fact that it has two two-prong plugs, two 5-volt USB-C ports, and one 5-volt USB-A port built right in.

Best Water Bottle

Brita stainless steel premium filtering water bottle.

While most lodges and safari companies will offer water bottles , Pretorius recommends bringing your own reusable water bottle to stay hydrated between game drives and walks, and during transfers and travel. I recommend the Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle because many lodges and camps in Africa use rainwater for drinking water, and while it is safe to drink, it may taste differently than you’re used to. This bottle has a replaceable carbon filter that helps to improve water taste and odor. It can also remove particulates in the water, but note that it is not a purifier. The stainless steel insulation will keep contents cool or warm for up to 24 hours, and the straw is ideal for taking sips inside a bumpy vehicle without spilling. One filter lasts up to two months or 40 gallons of water and replaces up to 300 plastic bottles of water.

Best First-aid Kit

Adventure medical kit ultralight watertight .5.

Any reputable safari operator or lodge will have a first-aid kit , but I still recommend packing this Adventure Medical Kit for peace of mind. It has all your essential medical needs covered, including an assortment of bandages and wound dressings, single doses of various generic pain and allergy medications, a splinter remover that can also remove ticks, and a collection of blister covers. Everything comes in a compact, double-layer waterproof bag that will easily fit into your day pack without taking up too much room. I particularly like having this on hand because it offers a quick way to deal with minor ailments on your own, using products you’re familiar with, and doesn’t require you to hunt down the lodge manager or interrupt the safari.

Best Luggage and Accessories

Your exact accessories and luggage needs will again vary depending on your specific trip, but I’ve compiled a basic list of items that function as universal needs. Regarding walking tours, Pretorius says a walking stick is a great addition, but only if you know you’ll use it. On the flip side, he says you’ll definitely want to pack a pair of ankle gaiters to strap onto your shoes to protect your lower legs and ankles from dirt, mud, debris, and errant branches or rocks.

Best Suitcase

Osprey sojourn shuttle bag 30 inch.

This eco-friendly, water-resistant wheeled duffel from Osprey ticks so many boxes, even ones you didn’t know you needed. On a basic level, it has a 108-liter capacity, several interior zippered organization pockets, a retractable handle, and is constructed with tough Bluesign-approved nylon. But the beauty of this bag is in the details. The duffel’s compression straps allow the bag to conform and snugly hold several different capacity levels — meaning you can pack it partially full, leaving room for souvenirs. Exterior storage includes a waterproof shoe compartment (key for muddy or dusty after-safari shoes) and a top easy-access compartment for toiletry bags or dirty clothes. It also has an extra-wide wheelbase and oversized 110mm wheels that maneuver beautifully over multiple surfaces, including rough terrain.

Best Day Pack

Deuter speed lite 21 pack.

Day packs are necessary for keeping your essentials with you while out on game drives or bush walks. The Deuter Speed Lite 21L Pack is made from 100 percent recycled materials and goes hard on the features while maintaining a simple and slim profile. Hikers and walkers will appreciate the bag’s minimal 15-ounce weight, padded and lined mesh backing, weight-balancing sternum and waist strap, and the side compression straps that help to prevent wobbling. You’ll get a side water bottle pocket (or you can slide a water bladder into the back sleeve and utilize the built-in hydration port and tube routing), a zippered top easy-access pocket, and accessory loops where you can thread things like your sunglasses. We also love that it’s made with Bluesign recycled materials.

Best Sunglasses for Men

Knockaround premiums sport sunglasses.

When it comes to sunglasses, Pretorius says you should pack a pair with polarized lenses and UVA and UVB protection to help protect your eyes while out on safari. These Knockaround Premiums Sport Sunglasses have a wide rectangular shape that will complement a variety of face shapes while also providing good coverage. These sunglasses are made from a strong but lightweight polycarbonate material and have comfortable nose cushions for those long outings. In particular, the polarized lenses are FDA-approved for their excellent impact resistance. They’re only available in one color and one size, but luckily it’s black and a size with a near-universal fit. These sunnies are also affordably priced, so you can leave your expensive sunglasses at home.

Best Sunglasses for Women

Smith caper sunglasses with chromapop.

These classically shaped square sunglasses offer 100 percent UV protection and the benefits of polarized lenses, plus a little extra that makes them a great safari pick. They have a proprietary ChromaPop component that enhances the view by further reducing glare and filtering out certain light wavelengths, resulting in superior clarity and natural color matching. Plus, they come in three color options, so you can find the pair that’s perfect for your look. Polymer materials makes them durable, and anti-slip nose cushions help keep them comfortable (and on your face during those windy game drives). They are an investment, however, so you might want to pick up a hard sided glasses case for storage.

Best Sun Hat

Tilley ltm6 airflo broad brim hat.

Pretorius says to stick with a brimmed hat since it will help keep your neck and shoulders protected from the sun, and he recommends investing in a hat from Tilly, the brand he himself uses. I like their LTM6 Airflo Sun Hat because it has the second-widest brim in the collection, comes in safari-friendly colors, and is made of Bluesign recycled materials. Where it shines, though, is its UPF 50+ sun protection rating and cooling mesh band around the crown that allows air to flow through (somehow while staying water-repelling). I love that it packs down flat and has the all-too-important adjustable wind strap, so it will stay in place in windy conditions. Oh, and Tilly guarantees all their hats for life.

Best Travel Pill Organizer

Auvon weekly pill organizer.

Use this travel pill organizer to pack your daily anti-malarial meds, regular prescriptions and supplements, or to ensure you have a stash of your trusted over-the-counter allergy or pain medicines. What I love about this seven-day pill organizer is that each day’s container can be removed separately and easily slipped into your pocket or day pack, giving you access to your daily dosage without having to cart around the entire case. Plus, the containers have a large capacity that can fit several larger-sized pills, and each day is a different color, a boon for visual folks like me. You’ll also get a water-resistant case with an easy-grab handle, and an interior pocket where you can store printed copies of your prescriptions (especially essential for any controlled prescriptions).

Best Shoes and Apparel

When it comes to clothing, Pretorius suggests leaning into performance tech items that are lightweight, breathable, and offer sun and water protection when possible. He says that waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket are “game-changers” during the rainy season since they fold up small and can make or break your experience in cold and rainy weather. For winter safaris, he warns that it can get cold and recommends packing a warming beanie and a pair of insulated gloves . These can also come in handy for early morning or nighttime game drives or walks during the shoulder season. The biggest tip is to pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate from day to night and even throughout the day.

Best Sun Shirt

Uniqlo airism mesh uv protection full-zip hoodie.

Whether you’re walking or in a vehicle, be sure to pack at least one top that has UPF protection. UPF protection is like built-in sunscreen and the UPF number refers to the percentage of UV rays the fabric blocks. According to Pretorius, you should aim for easy-to-care-for materials such as polyester, cotton, or blends. Uniqlo’s recycled polyester-spandex Airism Mesh UV Protection Full Zip Hoodie provides a removable full-coverage layer that’s lightweight and breathable enough to wear in high temps without overheating. I love that it has hand pockets and thumbholes, too, so you can protect your hands as well. It also packs down into its own pocket, making it a cinch to toss into your day pack.

Best Insulating Layer

Patagonia better sweater fleece jacket.

An insulating layer is a must for keeping you cozy during morning or night walks, chilly nights in a tent , or during early or evening game drives. It’s amazing how quickly it can go from warm to chilly (or even freezing) when you’re zooming through the park in an open-air vehicle. I never got in the vehicle without my Patagonia fleece, a men’s version hand-me-down from a ranger friend after I failed to pack my own. I like this style in particular because it has a contoured cut that is easy to layer and features a full zipper that doesn’t require you to pull it over your head. The zippered hand pockets and sleeve stash pocket are also key for keeping items secure during bumpy rides or long hikes (they also help keep out sneaky bugs). Plus, it’s made from recycled material and is Fair Trade-certified.

Best Waterproof Pants

Rei co-op sahara convertible pants.

Waterproof and rainproof pants are essential for Safaris. Pretorius notes that they can help to keep your safari experience comfortable and pleasant in cold or inclement weather. These REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants ( also available for men ) are made from recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, and have a special water-repellent coating that causes water to bead on contact. The cargo-style design includes six storage pockets to securely carry any essentials, and the drawstring elastic waist allows you to customize the fit for maximum comfort. The pants are lightweight and breathable but also feature vertical ankle zippers for extra airflow — or you can simply zip off the lower portion of the pants below the knee to convert them into shorts.

Best Walking Shoes

Merrell moab 3 mid waterproof hiking boots.

A durable and comfortable pair of sneakers is a must, even if you’re spending the majority of your time in a vehicle (you’ll likely have the chance to get out of the vehicle a few times to walk around or do a short bush walk). Heading out on a walking safari or staying in a ground-level tented camp? They’re a necessity. These Merrell Moab 3 Mid all-terrain boots get the job done by providing a supportive but comfortable fit with contoured footbeds, excellent shock absorption, high-traction soles, and outer heel and toe protection.

They’re also waterproof, which comes in handy for water crossings or downpours, and this mid-rise version has extra ankle support — highly recommended by Pretorius — for uneven ground and tiring trails. Several neutral colorways also mean you can pick the right combo for you while still blending into the bush.

Best Sandals

Teva women's original universal sandals.

Pretorius recommends packing a pair of sandals . While he is comfortable wearing flip-flops, I prefer a sturdier sandal like the Teva Original Universal. It’s a bit more rugged, with stabilizing traction in the sole and an adjustable heel strap to prevent them from sliding off. These sandals are also top-notch performers in wet conditions and have a molded sole with heel cushioning and arch support for long-wear comfort. Fitting with the theme of most of the items on this list, they are also made from recycled materials. Another bonus? They have an accessible price point, and there are a whopping 43 colors and patterns to choose from in women’s sizes and over 50 options in men’s sizes .

What to Know Before You Go on Safari

Avoid camouflage clothing.

If you’re visiting countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, and Uganda (to name a few), you’ll need to avoid packing anything with a camouflage design. In these countries, it is illegal for anyone outside of official law and military personnel to wear camouflage.

Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medications

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It is present in some safari destinations, but not all. For example, all game reserves in South Africa's Eastern Cape are in malaria-free zones, but malaria is still a risk in other provinces, including Mpumalanga, which is home to Kruger National Park. Likewise, popular safari countries like Tanzania and Kenya are high-risk malaria zones.

Get in touch with your doctor or local travel clinic several months before your trip to discuss antimalarial options, as some medicines require you to start taking them several weeks before you arrive — and/or several weeks after. It’s also a good idea to ask if your destination requires any vaccinations for entry. Many countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination, while Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations are recommended prior to travel.

Prepare for the weather

Within the four global seasons of summer, spring, fall, and winter, you should pay attention to whether your visit coincides with the wet or dry season. In South Africa, the dry season is roughly between May and September, and the wet season is October through April with rains starting in November, Pretorius says.

“There is essentially no rain during the winter months,” he adds, which can make “spotting wildlife easier as the vegetation is less dense and the animals tend to stay around permanent water sources. Summer months are hot and humid, and storms can occur frequently, but rarely last very long. Rainy season means the return of migratory birds, and numerous antelope species also give birth during this time of year.”

Keep in mind, the majority of safari destinations are located below the equator in the southern hemisphere. Pretorius is quick to remind safari-goers that the winter and summer seasons occur at opposite times compared to locations above the equator. If you book a safari in most destinations during the months of June, July, and August, you’ll be hitting winter, not summer, and vice versa.

Everyone’s safari needs will differ, but check with your safari provider about what types of items will be available for free or to rent onsite so you don’t pack unnecessary items. For example, many providers offer simple ponchos during the rainy season but rarely offer waterproof pants. Focusing on the necessities will help keep your costs down, luggage lighter, and avoid product waste. Plus, you’ll have more room for souvenirs!

Additionally, avoid single-use and plastic products and instead try to stick to eco-friendly options when possible. Many lodges and camps operate with eco-friendly practices, and following suit during a safari is one way to be respectful of the natural areas, people, and wildlife you’ve come to see. Thin, plastic bags have also been banned in countries like Uganda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Kenya, making eco-friendly materials a must.

A soft-sided rolling duffel is the best luggage to bring on safari, particularly if part of your travels include a smaller airline or will take place on a smaller plane. Many smaller aircrafts and smaller airlines in African countries require soft-sided luggage. The last thing you’ll want to do after a long flight is purchase a new piece of luggage and repack before being let onto your intra-country flight. Since size, weight, shape, and luggage types can vary vastly between airlines, it’s a good idea to do research beforehand to make sure your luggage meets all restrictions.

Pretorius says to avoid “anything red, orange, yellow, fluorescent, and even white” since predators often associate these colors with prey. You want to blend in as much as possible with your surroundings, which is why natural, neutral-colors are best for safaris. This is even more important for walking safaris or camping as you’ll actually be on the ground. "Think earthy tones, like khaki, brown, beige, and even navy blue” when choosing your safari packing palette, Pretorius adds.

If you’re in a self-contained lodge, you can wear pretty much whatever you’d like while on the property. Just be sure to dress for the weather and remember that even luxury safari lodges have a fairly casual vibe (a.k.a you won’t need any formal or business attire).

When in doubt, opt for lightweight clothing that offers protection from the elements and environment — breathable, water-resistant/waterproof, and UPF fabrics in layers.

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K. Alex Beaven has had over 150 safari experiences, including budget camping, bush walks, game drives, river cruises, and luxury lodges in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Additionally, Alex spent several months living onsite at two game reserves in the Eastern Cape, creating content for their conservation volunteer programs. She also interviewed Koen Pretorius, owner and guide at Tsala Trails , a safari company that offers all-inclusive walking safaris in Big 5 game reserves across South Africa, to get his best advice about preparing and packing for a safari.

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The 10 best fanny packs and belt bags for travel.

Combine hands-free convenience with style and organization.

The Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Fanny packs of the 2020s are not the same as they were in the 1980s and 1990s. Yes, you can still find packs adorned with wild shapes, fluorescent colors and styles to perfect your Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson costume, but many of them are more fashion-forward. Choose from neutral tones, an array of fabrics (from recycled fibers to leather) and unique features to keep you organized.

What's more, fanny packs are useful. They free up your hands while keeping everything at your fingertips. You don't have to worry about a pack sliding from your back to your front (like a crossbody bag), nor will you suffer the excess heat on your back that often plagues backpack users.

If you're still not convinced, perhaps one of the packs below will help. Based on consumer reviews and travel expert insights, these are the best fanny packs for travelers. Whether you're vacationing solo , heading out on a hike or taking the kids to Walt Disney World , there's something on this list for you.

• Best Overall: Dagne Dover Ace Neoprene Fanny Pack
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall (at a lower price point): JanSport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack

Best men's: patagonia ultralight black hole mini hip pack 1l, best women's: lululemon everywhere belt bag 1l, best for kids: everest junior waist pack, best anti-theft: travelon anti-theft active waist pack, best plus size: attackcatbags waxed canvas sling bag, best clear: veckle clear fanny pack, best for hiking: cotopaxi bataan 3l fanny pack.

• Best Leather: Lo & Sons Bond

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Best Overall: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

What sets this pack apart: Dagne Dover's neoprene fanny pack is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it an appealing option for eco-conscious travelers . The bag features three different sections: a front zip area, the main zippered compartment and a card slot on the back. Inside the main pocket, you'll find slots for both lip balm and cards or cash, plus a key clip. The fanny pack has an adjustable waist strap, weighs 9 ounces and is water-resistant.

This pack comes in classic colors, including mauve, olive, camel, black and gray. Special seasonal colors and patterns may be available, too. It also comes in a recycled air mesh version that weighs less than 5 ounces.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the bag is excellent for everyday use and they love being hands-free while traveling or running errands. Others note that the bag can be small if you have a large phone plus other items inside.

Price: $95 or less

Courtesy of JanSport

What sets this pack apart: This bag holds all your travel essentials in a main zippered compartment with a small zip pouch on the front and a fully adjustable waist strap. When empty, the pack weighs just 4.5 ounces, and it is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including lilac, camouflage, floral and black. You can also snag the bag in a corduroy material.

Travelers appreciate: Users of this bag praise the variety of colors and patterns, noting it's best for those traveling light (think: a few credit cards, your phone and lip balm). Many also mention that the bag is great to wear as a crossbody.

Price: $30 or less

Courtesy of Patagonia

What sets this pack apart: Patagonia's pack has a classic style, with one large zip pouch and a smaller zippered enclosure on the front. It comes in multiple colors from basic black to blue to moss green. What's more, the pack stows away into a stuff sack for easy portability and weighs less than 4 ounces. It's also made with 100% recycled materials. Patagonia also makes a larger version of this pack.

Travelers appreciate: "This light pack is the perfect size for your phone, wallet, car keys, and any other adventure essentials (sunscreen, dog treats, etc.)," says Zach Watson , senior editor of travel at U.S. News. "I'm always misplacing small equipment, but Patagonia's eye-catching colors help this pack stand out from my more monotone gear. My pack is still going strong after more than four years of regular use in sun, rain and snow."

Price: $35 or less

Courtesy of Lululemon

What sets the pack apart: The bag features a water-repellent fabric with two zippered compartments: one main section (which includes a mesh pouch inside) and one along the back exterior. This crossbody comes in multiple colors, including gray, black, green, pink and white. It also comes in a clear bag style with white or black trim. Select colors feature fabric made from recycled materials. The regular bag's strap reaches 41.7 inches, but you can buy a version of the bag with a longer strap that extends to 55.5 inches.

Travelers appreciate: "I started using the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag when I would take my son to a park or playground because it allowed me to keep my hands free and also kept all my essentials at my fingertips (without being bulky)," says Ann Henson , assistant managing editor of travel at U.S. News. "Now I use this as my everyday bag. It's easy to wipe clean and the interior pockets keep everything organized."

Megan Wood , senior editor of commerce for U.S. News' 360 Reviews, adds, "I especially love the size for walking my dog. It holds keys, treats and poop bags, and frees up my hands for holding the leash and a cup of coffee." Other reviewers also like the color variety, with several noting they own multiple different colors.

Price: $38 or less

Also consider: Reviewers say the ODODOS Unisex Mini Belt Bag is a durable, stylish dupe of the Everywhere bag. Plus, it's a budget-friendly alternative at about $14 or less.

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Courtesy of Everest

What sets this pack apart: From snacks to fidget spinners, children have their own necessities during a trip. Everest's kid-sized waist pack could fit the bill. The pack itself measures roughly 8 x 2.5 x 3.5 inches and weighs 4 ounces when empty. The pack has two front-access zippered compartments. There are several kid-friendly color options, such as coral, purple, hot pink and turquoise.

Travelers appreciate:  Travelers say the pack is perfect for small children, noting it fits their kids well and gives them space to keep small objects such as rocks and seashells safe as they explore. Nevertheless, parents do warn the buckle can be finicky and that the excess strap is long after adjusting (it can adjust up to 60 inches).

Price: $21 or less

What sets this pack apart: AttackCatBags prides itself on offering not only stylish fanny packs, but also inclusive sizing. Its waxed canvas bags come in youth to 6X sizes as well as two styles: a 12-inch hip pack or a 15-inch sling bag. The bags are covered in organic beeswax, which makes the bag fashionable and water-resistant. Bags come in various colors and patterns, such as pink, a moons and clouds print, and Japanese-inspired designs.

Travelers appreciate: Reviews compliment the quality of the bag, noting both its durable construction and beautiful fabrics. They also appreciate how big both the hip pack and sling bags are, saying they're both perfect for carrying the essentials on a trip.

Price:  $70 or less

Also consider: Canvelle's Original Fanny Pack is another wonderful option as its strap reaches up to 61.5 inches (including the bag). It costs $95 or less for the original size. "Not only is this belt bag ideal for all body types, but it also offers a deceiving amount of space – even more so if you use one of the coordinating slim wallets," says Amanda Norcross , senior content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "I appreciate that it's machine washable, and that I can use it for literally anything: travel, concerts, everyday errands and more."

Courtesy of Veckle

What sets this pack apart: This clear fanny pack features a waterproof PVC material as well as two zip compartments. The strap adjusts up to 47 inches. The bag itself measures 11 x 6.5 x 5.9 inches, which meets the size requirements for events (most stadiums limit bags to 12 x 12 x 6 inches). Though clear, there are a few colorways such as black trim, gray trim, pink trim and white trim with a rainbow strap.

Travelers appreciate: Users say they've successfully taken this bag to concerts and stadiums that have clear bag rules. Many also appreciate the size of the bag, complimenting both its capacity and long strap.

Price: $12.99 or less

Courtesy of Travelon

What sets this pack apart: Thanks to RFID-blocking technology, locking waist straps, locking zippers and slash-resistant material, this Travelon fanny pack is ideal for jet-setters who want some extra security during their vacations. The bag features front and rear zippered pockets, and the interior has a key clip plus a small light. The strap can accommodate waists up to 48 inches in circumference. This pack comes in three colors: black, gray and teal. Keep in mind that to take full advantage of the security features, you'll have to relock the bag each time you get something out.

Travelers appreciate: The security features, plus the bag's classic style, appeal to reviewers. Some travelers say the bag was too small for their needs, while others say it was just the right size for essentials (like a passport, credit cards and a phone).

Price: $50 or less

What sets this pack apart: Each multicolor Cotopaxi fanny pack is one-of-a-kind. Possible colors you can combine include yellow, teal, olive or red. Purchasers have the option to select their own bag – or save a few dollars by receiving a mystery bag (and have no control over the colors). What's more, the materials are sustainably sourced: Packs are made from surplus nylon fabric that otherwise would've ended up in a landfill. The single zip compartment has two internal mesh pockets to help keep belongings organized.

Travelers appreciate: "Besides being fun to look at and wear, this durable fanny pack really packs a punch when it comes to outdoor activities," says Leilani Osmundson , senior digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "In addition to my phone, wallet and keys, I'm able to fit other hiking must-haves like snacks, first-aid supplies and even a small water bottle. Plus, with two mesh pockets inside, it's easy to keep things organized."

Price:  $37.50 or less

Also consider: If you'd like slightly more subdued color options, you can't go wrong with Eddie Bauer's Stowaway Packable Waist Pack . "I've worn this bag while traveling, during hikes, at concerts, to bars – basically any scenario where you would want to have all your necessities on-hand without feeling weighed down," says Victoria Sheridan , home goods editor for 360 Reviews at U.S. News. Sheridan also says the bag is subtle enough to not clash with her outfits and it's durable: She's had her bag for about three years.

Best Leather: Lo & Sons Bond

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

What sets this pack apart: This sheepskin leather fanny pack comes in four neutral tones (black, navy, cognac and cream) to match any outfit. The main zippered compartment on the front features mesh pockets and a zippered pocket with card slots inside; it also has a key tether. The back of the fanny pack has a card slot as well as a zip compartment. The zipper pulls are designed to accommodate a TSA-approved lock, should you want some extra security for your belongings.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers point out the fine quality of the bag and note it is an excellent travel accessory that fits all the essentials. A few noted how lightweight the bag is.

Price:  $328 or less

Also consider: This leather fanny pack from Etsy gets great reviews for its quality and classic style. The bag costs around $86 or less.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Marisa Méndez   is an avid gear connoisseur who's constantly on the hunt for her next perfect travel item. Her current favorites are Knockaround's Deja Views sunglasses , a Portland Gear backpack (the compact size), a Quatish jewelry case and a Lands' End cargo jacket . She's also anxiously awaiting her next trip to break in her Solgaard Carry-on Closet . Marisa used her love of both organization and research to come up with this list of fanny packs.

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Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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Election latest: Party leaders among millions of voters; dogs pictured at polling stations

Polling stations are open until 10pm. Scroll down to read how to follow Sky's election night coverage.

Thursday 4 July 2024 19:12, UK

• General Election 2024

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• Polling stations open at 7am and close at 10pm as Britain votes in general election
• What counts as voter ID?
• Key election day timings
• In pictures: Dogs, dogs, more dogs... and a horse at polling stations
• Why is there no political news today?
• What is the exit poll?
• How to watch election night coverage on Sky News

The fastest results, the sharpest analysis and an award-winning line up - as the general election unfolds, Sky News will bring you the full story, first.

Whether you want to settle down in front of the TV, stay in the know on the move, or keep updated from work, we'll have live coverage across our platforms to bring you everything as soon as it happens.

We'll have expert commentary and analysis to help you digest key developments, kicking off with the exit poll and running through the weekend.

What's happening - and when?

Polls are open from 7am until 10pm - and during that time, you won't see any coverage of politics or policy due to strict reporting restrictions.

But Sky News will still be bringing you colourful snapshots of polling day, from leaders casting their ballots to the important business of dogs at polling stations, on TV and right here in the Politics Hub .

9pm Thursday into Friday

Chief presenter Kay Burley will anchor Election Night Live, the overnight results programme, from a 360-degree immersive studio normally used by Sky Sports shows like Monday Night Football, alongside our expert team.

As soon as the polls close at 10pm, Sky News will bring you the exit poll - your first insight into how the general election results could play out.

From 7am on the morning after the nationwide voting, lead politics presenter Sophy Ridge, host of Sky's Politics Hub programme, will be live from Westminster bringing viewers every development as the election result is absorbed and plans for the next government are made.

Ridge will be joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates and Sky News contributor Adam Boulton across what will be a historic day, as the nation awaits the next prime minister.

How to watch

The Politics Hub

This live blog will feature the latest results, swift and in-depth analysis, as well as reactions to the results across the country and much more - so bookmark this page !

Shortly after the polls close we'll have a seat-by-seat lookup to let you see the forecast result in your constituency and through the night we'll have a live, interactive results service to give you the big picture as well as the result where you live.

Watch on TV for FREE : Freeview 233, Sky 501, Sky Showcase, Virgin 603, and BT 313.

Streams and social : Watch Sky News live here , and on YouTube .

We will also be posting the latest videos and stories on TikTok , X , Instagram , Facebook and WhatsApp .

Listen: Listen to Sky News on TuneIn , and here .

By Aoife Yourell, economics producer

It is the first big moment of election night. The exit poll is the moment millions tune in for a first sniff of the eventual result of the general election.

And in Election 2024 this poll, with its impressive track record, sometimes down to a margin of only a few seats, will, once again, be a key part of broadcasters' coverage - including here at Sky News - on Thursday night.

The current model was devised in 2005 by Professor John Curtice and statistician David Firth and it has been consistently reliable, bar 2015 when the seat numbers suggested a hung parliament and David Cameron scraped a thin majority.

But for the most part, its accuracy has been dependable. In 2010, it correctly predicted the exact number of seats for the Conservatives.

Commissioned by the broadcasters - Sky News, the BBC and ITV News - the fieldwork is carried out by IPSOS UK who will have interviewers at 133 polling stations around the country this year.

People who have just voted will be asked to privately fill in a replica ballot paper and place it into a ballot box as they leave their local community centre, church hall or station.

Researchers can only deploy to a fraction of the total constituencies in England, Scotland and Wales, so locations are chosen to best reflect the demographics of the country with an urban and rural spread.

However, many of the locations will be in marginal seats, where the swing between the main parties will be tracked.

The same polling stations are targeted year after year so the swing from the last election's exit poll, along with other data at constituency level, can be analysed by those crunching the numbers.

The data collected at the polling stations is sent back by interviewers to IPSOS UK at several stages throughout the day.

It's processed there and sent via a secure data pipeline to the broadcasters' statisticians and political scientists who are locked down in a secret location in the capital.

By 10pm their work is done - and the fruit of that data gathering and analysis - the first real glimpse of the electorate's verdict - is being digested and picked apart.

There are strict rules in place to make sure the election is fair - including around whether you can take any photos or selfies at polling stations.

The rules state you should not take any photos - including selfies - inside the polling station.

That is because it is against the law to share how someone has voted, is about to vote, or the unique ID ballot paper number - all of which could end up in the shot with photos taken inside the polling station.

Breaking the law could mean you're handed a fine of up to £5,000, or six months in prison.

You and your dogs are welcome to take photos outside the polling station.

Does that mean I can't use my phone in the polling station? 

You can use your phone inside the polling station - including in the voting booth, for example, if you need to use the torch or an app to help you read the ballot paper.

It's up to the returning officer - the person in charge of the polling station - to set the venue's rules around mobile phone use and train staff accordingly.

You will need to remove headphones when giving your name, address, and ID to staff, and if you're having a loud phone conversation you can expect to be told to be quiet.

Election experts - otherwise known as psephologists - have headed down into the exit poll bunker to work out how the public has voted today and what it will mean for the makeup of Parliament.

Patrick English, director of political analytics at YouGov, said he would be going in with Professor John Curtice, who helped devise the current model in 2015 along with statistician David Firth.

Once in the bunker they will be processing information from replica ballot papers people across the country will have filled out after voting.

Election analysts and political scientists will be sealed inside the secret room in London as they pore over the data - before giving the public their first glimpse of the electorate's verdict in the 10pm exit poll.

There are strict rules broadcasters have to adhere to on polling day, which is why you won't see any political news on the Sky News website or TV channel for the next few hours.

The rules are there to prevent any influence over how people choose to vote.

Ofcom rules state that any discussion and analysis of election issues must finish when the polls open, which was at 7am today.

Broadcasters are also not allowed to publish the results of any opinion poll on election day until the polls close at 10pm.

Over the past decade, this has meant that photos of dogs at polling stations has become a phenomenon - in lieu of more substantial political news.

We've been bringing you some excellent pictures of dogs at polling stations throughout the day... here are some more.

After weeks of campaigning, polls are open and voters across the nation are having their say.

Here are the key timings of the day:

9pm Thursday : Sky News' Election Night Live programme starts ( click here for details on how to watch ).

10pm : Polls will close and counting will begin.

10pm : Broadcasters’ exit poll will be published, giving the first indication of the election.

Around 11.30pm : First seats will be declared.

Around 4.30am Friday : We will likely know for certain who will form the next government.

7am : Sophy Ridge and Sam Coates broadcast the fallout from the election live on Sky News.

This is the first general election in which all voters will need to provide ID in order to cast a ballot.

There are 22 different types of ID you can use. For people without photo ID, Voter Authority Certificates are available - but you must have applied by 26 June.

Here's everything you need to know.

What ID can eligible voters use to vote in elections?

• Most forms of existing photo ID will be accepted, including:
• UK or Northern Ireland photocard driving licence (full or provisional)
• driving licence issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Isle of Man or any of the Channel Islands
• UK passport
• passport issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or a Commonwealth country
• PASS card (National Proof of Age Standards Scheme)
• biometric residence permit (BRP)
• Defence Identity Card (MOD form 90)
• national identity card issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein
• Northern Ireland Electoral Identity Card
• Voter Authority Certificate
• Anonymous Elector's Document

The following travel passes will also be accepted:

• older person's bus pass
• disabled person's bus pass
• Oyster 60+ card
• Freedom Pass
• Scottish National Entitlement Card (NEC)
• 60 and Over Welsh Concessionary Travel Card
• Disabled Person's Welsh Concessionary Travel Card
• Northern Ireland concessionary travel pass

Voters can still use photo ID that is out of date, as long as it still looks like them and the name is the same one used to register to vote.

What ID do you need if you're voting as someone's proxy?

You'll need to take your own ID if you're voting on someone else's behalf. You do not need to take theirs.

Fergus the cockapoo helped his owners vote in Old Isleworth, southwest London.

Owner Maddie told Sky News: "We finally made it to the polling station and Fergus was very excited for us to vote.

"The polling staff were great and really spoilt him."

Sky News' chief political correspondent Jon Craig has done his democratic duty and voted with wife Caroline and border terrier Wilbur in Tooting, south London.

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