If you plan to head out of the country and need to start packing, I’ve got you! As someone who has traveled to over 22 countries and forgotten many things – learn from my mistakes and never take a trip unprepared again. Here are my top trip must haves and recommendations!
This ultimate packing list will be your go-to resource for all of your overseas journeys so that you can remain worry free!
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BUNDLE YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
LUGGAGE
Let’s start from square one. You’ll definitely need luggage, obviously. But what luggage is the best? What features are helpful when traveling internationally?
SUITCASE SET
I highly recommend hard suitcases, as they will be the most durable during multiple flights and transports. A 3-piece suitcase set is ideal because they fit into each other for storage, and you’ll have the option to choose between sizes depending on your trip. The 4-wheeled sets are also a necessity so you can efficiently roll through the airport and to your accommodation. My favorite suitcase set is linked above. The standout built in lock feature is TSA-approved to ensure no one can unzip your luggage. This set is also durable but extremely light weight.
TOP ALTERNATIVES
BACKPACK
For an international trip, you’ll want to maximize your luggage allowance, which will be dictated by the airline. Having a backpack can oftentimes count as a personal item, and can also be used during your trip. There are a few ways you can go for backpack styles depending on preference, duration of your trip, planned activities, and trip location.
TOP PICKS
DUFFEL BACKPACK UNDER $40
This backpack is great because it opens up like a mini suitcase. You can fit so much in here! There’s also a designated double laptop sleeve, luggage strap, and tons of hidden pockets + compartments.
DUFFEL BACKPACK
Another duffel backpack option!
SINGLE-STRAP BACKPACK
This one-shoulder backpack is also a great option. The advantage to the single-strap is that it’s smaller by nature and makes it easier to wear on your front for places where pickpocketing is rampant. I also love that it has two cup holders, and the front buckle pocket for easy access (for less-important items.)
TOP ALTERNATIVES
TRAVEL PURSE
Now let’s talk purses. Depending on your trip, you might not want to bring your most expensive, beloved, or designer bag. While those are fun to prance around, theft amongst tourists is common in many parts of the world.
In my opinion, the brand Travelon has the best travel purses. They have so many options to choose from and their styles are sleek and simple. You can’t go wrong with a solid black purse! The showstopping feature on these is the innovative anti-theft zipper lock. The locked zipper hardware makes it difficult for pickpocketers to open your bag when you’re not looking. These purses are also water and slash resistant, have RFID blocking, and come with a removable light for easy searching.
Of course, you can always go with a fanny pack rather than a purse. The classic Lululemon Belt Bag can truly do no wrong. If you don’t have too many bulky items to carry with you, this option is ideal. Lululemon also sells a larger size now, too! Ensure the ‘bag’ part remains in front of you, though. Slinging it to your back leaves you an open target for pickpocketers.
If you do feel comfortable bringing a nicer purse, here are some top choice picks:
TOP ALTERNATIVES
MUST-HAVE ACCESSORIES
Packing cubes will truly save your life! No matter how good you are at folding and rolling, these will undoubtedly still save you space. They’re also nice for organizing based on days, activities, and outfits.
PACKING CUBES
COMPRESSION PACKING CUBES
Compression packing cubes will save you so much space! These are truly life-changing and once you use them you will be amazed at how much more you can pack!
If you prefer regular packing cubes, here are some top choice picks!
SET OF 8 UNDER $20
SET OF 10 UNDER $25
TOILETRY ORGANIZATION
CLEAR TOILETRY BAGS
Clear toiletry bags will be the most efficient way to pack!
TOILETRY CONTAINERS
Keeping your individual toiletry items in containers will keep you organized and prevent potential leaks or spills from getting on everything!
Leak-proof travel jars are an the best way to store items like skincare, creams, and lotions. TSA approved.
Squeezable travel tubes are great for items like shampoo and conditioner. TSA approved.
You can also get a mix of all the toiletry containers! This set comes with jars, squeezable tubes, and spray bottles. TSA approved.
TRAVEL BLANKET/PILLOW
This blanket easily folds up inside the ‘pillowcase’, so it can function as both. I’m telling you – this is much warmer and softer than the flimsy little blankets they give you on the plane. I also love that it has a clip and luggage strap for extra convenience.
LUGGAGE WEIGHT
I cannot tell you how many times I’ve almost gone over the designated luggage weight. This little accessory is only $10 and will save you hundreds in overweight baggage fees. While the step on/step off the scale method may work at home, it is a hassle and may not be an option for your trip back. This portable scale makes weighing your luggage a breeze and measures in lbs and kg.
TECH ORGANIZER
The best way to keep your cords, plugs, converters, and sockets organized will be with a tech organizer.
ADAPTER & CONVERTER
Simply your trip and get a two-in-one converter and adapter. Save yourself the stress of having to get one for each new country, and get one that works worldwide.
This smaller version is also a two-in-one, and is more portable.
(Pro Tip: I usually bring both types on my trips!)
PORTABLE CHARGER
SLIM PORTABLE CHARGER UNDER $30
When traveling abroad, you will most likely be spending a lot of time away from your room and charger(s). I highly suggest bringing a long-lasting, slim portable charging bank with you.
CHARGING ORGANIZERS
If you’re traveling overseas, chances are you’ve got multiple charging cords. I usually have my phone cord, an extra phone cord, my watch charger, my portable charger, cords for my iPad and Kindle, etc.
A cable and electronic organizer will keep all of your charging cables in one spot. I like to put this in my backpack for easy access. There is nothing worse than having loose cords flying all around!
This 3-in-1 foldable charger will cover a lot (maybe not all) of your bases. It folds up, will save you a lot of space, and allows you to charge multiple devices at once.
CLEANING WIPES
You never know what you’ll need to wipe down. From plane, to train, to any public space, these will come in handy at some point during your trip.
HAND SANITIZER
If there isn’t an easily accessible place to wash your hands at a moment’s notice, this will come in handy!
WATER BOTTLE
TOP PICK
UNDER $10
FOLDABLE WATER BOTTLE UNDER $15
Truly any water bottle will do, but if you’re short on packing space, a collapsible water bottle will ensure optimization.
SLEEP MASK
Hopefully your accommodation has blackout curtains! If not, this will do the trick. A sleep mask will also come in handy on the plane and will assuredly block out all light, which will also help with fighting jetlag.
PEN/PENCIL
Last, but certainly not least!
A black pen is a need when traveling internationally. There are so many instances where having one will come in handy. Oftentimes you will be asked to fill out forms for immigration upon arrival and/or departure, and having a pen will guarantee you won’t have to wait for the few that are being passed around on the plane.
ENJOY!
Traveling internationally can be chaotic, but that doesn’t mean packing has to be! Keep this list on-hand for all of your overseas trips so you won’t forget the essentials.
I wish you safe + efficient international travels! 🫶🏽🧳
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