The Ultimate Travel Packing List

This travel checklist is the only one you’ll need. Whether you are looking for some last-minute guidance or want to get a head start on your upcoming holiday, you need to see this packing list.

Print it out, scribble all over it and make notes! You are about to thank us as you remember all the important stuff you often might forget and things you didn’t even know you needed but make a difference.

The Ultimate Travel Packing List

Save this page in your favourites and get it bookmarked, you’ll be coming back to it for sure.

Choose your suitcase/backpack

You will want to first and foremost ensure you have the right suitcase and luggage for the trip ahead. If its pricey, ensure it has a warranty as you never know what broken wheels can crop up when you’re on the road. Think about what’s also easier for you to carry. Here are some options: wheeled backpacks, large litre backpacks, rolling suitcases, carry-on bag and duffel bags.

Get organised

Think about the activities you’re going to do and plan your packing based on this factor. Think about weather conditions; will it be rainy? Windy? Really hot? Bring extra layers and thin items that provide shade from the sun. Packing organisers are a good idea as they allow you to pack and unpack quickly. Also consider buying compression packs that allow you to fit a lot of things in a small amount of space. This should be reserved for bulkier things such as coats.

Here are some basics:

  • Lighter items for layering
  • Windbreaker that can be folded easily
  • Fleece
  • Long-sleeves and t-shirts (keep in mind the culture of the country your going to)
  • Shorts/pants/ belts
  • Underwear/socks that are comfy for lots of waking
  • Walking boots/shoes
  • Rain jackets/umbrella
  • Sleepwear
  • Dresses/skirts
  • Sunglasses/sunhat/spf/Bandana
  • Mobile/laptop/ tablet and chargers
  • Earplugs in case of noise
  • Travel speakers
  • Swimwear
  • Eye mask and travel pillow
  • Adapters
  • Mosquito spray/nets

Now depending on where you go this list will differ and vary.

Get the toiletries in check

You want to get this right and remember the flight rules if you are taking carry-on luggage. Bearing this in mind, here are some basics:

  • Toothbrush, floss and mouthwash
  • Hand sanitiser and hand cream
  • Comb, conditioner, shampoo  (get all in one to get you more room to pack)
  • Deodorant
  • SPF
  • Face wash and moisturiser
  • Supplements to keep your immune system good and strong
  • Wet wipes for those long travel days
  • First-aid kit
  • Hay fever relief and personal prescriptions
  • Contact lenses
  • Allergy medicines
  • Rehydration packets in case of sickness

This is just the start of the list as you will want to cover bases with documents such as travel insurance, passports and other forms of ID and paperwork. The key is giving yourself enough time to plan ahead and ensure you have everything you need.