The Ultimate Packing List for Vacations

Prepare for an incredible trip with our essential packing lists. Learn:

• How to pack with the ultimate packing list
• What to bring on your vacation
• Travel packing tips for stress-free travel

Preparation for the perfect journey starts well before you take off on your flight. Having a comfortable and stress-free vacation relies on having packed the right gear to keep you prepared and entertained during your time away. We’ve put together easy lists of what to pack for stress-free travel.

Travel packing lists for vacations

Clothes

Take into consideration the local weather and your activities. Aim to pack exactly what you need without over packing. Consider packing neutrals that you can layer with each other.

It’s also best to opt for dark colors, since they do a better job of hiding spots. Practical fabrics, such as cooling and heating merino wool, bug and UPF-proof clothing, wrinkle resistant wardrobe staples, and quick-drying activewear, are a godsend to the traveler who aspires to pack light.

Depending on where you are going, you can buy items at your final destination.

Here are some staples to include in your suitcase, depending on weather:

Toiletries

The toiletries you love are indispensable for maintaining your skincare regime while on the road. Try purchasing small, travel size versions of your favorite products. Transfer toiletries into travel-sized containers to save space and comply with TSA carry-on rules. Include essentials like toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, body wash and sunscreen.

Packing list:

• Hairbrush or comb
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Deodorant
• Skincare products
• Body wash
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Shaving kit
• Glasses
• Contact lenses
• Tweezers
• Nail clippers
• Hair dryer
• Hair products
• Perfume/cologne

Electricals

Living in a wired, tech world means you need gadget(s) with you when you travel. Whether it’s for entertainment, work, comfort or connectivity, bringing the right items improves your travel experience. Here are a few items to consider:

• Power banks are great for long days to keep your phone and other small devices charged.
• Headphones areuseful for long flights, trains, or just when relaxing. Noise-canceling ones can be especially helpful in crowded places.
• Luggage trackers.
• Mobile device, charger, and charging cable.
• Laptop, iPad, or E-reader and charger(s).
• Electrical converters and adapters.

What travel items can you buy at the airport?

At the airport, you can buy items like bottled water, snacks, travel-sized toiletries, packing cubes, passport holders, reusable travel bottles, electronics like headphones and duty-free items like perfumes, cosmetics and alcohol depending on the location and shops available.

What travel items can you buy once you land?

You can buy almost everything wherever you land, including forgotten clothing items, umbrellas, a reusable water bottle, snacks and toiletries. It’s also a fun adventure to shop for the necessities in a foreign country.

How much should you pack for a week-long trip?

A good balance is to pack a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Here’s a basic list to keep you looking stylish and ready for anything without overpacking:

Clothing

• Tops: 4-5 tops (consider different layers if it's winter).
• Bottoms: 2-3 pairs (such as jeans, trousers, or leggings).
• Outerwear: 1 warm jacket or coat if it's cold, preferably one you wear while traveling to save space.
• Sweaters, cardigans or hoodies: 1-2 for layering.
• Undergarments: enough for each day, or plan to wash mid-trip.
• Sleepwear: 1 set.
• Accessories: 1-2 scarves or hats, especially if going somewhere cold.
• Shoes: 2 pairs (a comfortable walking pair and possibly one other style).

Toiletries

Travel-sized essentials (like shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant) or use solids to save space.

Other Essentials

• Packable tote bag: useful for extras you pick up during the trip.
• Travel documents: passport, insurance and itinerary.

By packing light and versatile, you'll have what you need without a heavy suitcase. If you’re up for it, some travelers only bring a carry-on only for a smoother trip.

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 rule for packing?

It’s a capsule wardrobe packing plan, designed for variety but without the bulk.

• 5 tops: 1 white T-shirt, 1 black T-shirt, 1 formal top, 1 business casual top, and one hoodie or cardigan and 1 light jacket.
• 4 bottoms: 1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of black trousers, 1 comfortable skirt or shorts, and 1 pair of neutral-coloured pants.
• 3 shoes: 1 pair of white sneakers (worn on the plane), 1 pair of formal shoes, 1 pair of neutral-coloured sandals.
• 2 accessories: 1 belt, 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 jacket: depending on the weather and the formality of your activities, pack one neutral-colored jacket to keep you warm or accessorize

How many outfits do you need for a 7-day vacation?

If you pack according to our checklist, you’ll be able to create 20 different outfits, without repetition!

How much should you pack for a month-long trip?

Rather than overpack, plan on doing laundry while you’re on the trip. Many hotels offer laundry service, or you can scope out local laundromats or dry cleaners to tackle the job. You could also add more tops and bottoms, a few more accessories and another dressy outfit.

FAQs

How full should I fill my suitcase?

When packing for a trip, aim for a suitcase that's about 75-80% full to allow room for things that catch your eye along the way. Here are a few tips:

• Pack layers instead of bulky items: go for layers that you can mix and match rather than heavy sweaters or jackets. Thermal tops and lightweight sweaters are warmer and take up less space.
• Wear heavy items: save space by wearing your heaviest shoes and coat on the plane.
• Opt for travel size toiletries: to save space, only bring what you need. You’ll be able to find replacements if you run out.
• Leave room for gifts: you'll likely want some space for souvenirs, so keeping a little space free or bringing a packable tote is useful.
• Limit extras: avoid overpacking by sticking to essentials.

If you’re unsure about space, consider packing cubes or rolling your clothes to help maximize the room in your suitcase.

What do people typically forget to pack when going on vacation?

People often forget to pack essential items like chargers and plug adapters for their electronic devices, personal medications, a reusable water bottle, a first aid kit, sunglasses, appropriate toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo) and travel-sized toiletries when going on vacation.