“I haven’t traveled with one suitcase since my first day of kindergarten.”
-The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
I believe there are two types of people in the world: those who pack for a trip well in advance (and overpack) and those who pack at the last minute (and forget things). I happen to be in the latter category. I once went hiking in the Finger Lakes…and forgot to pack my hiking boots.
Packing for a trip can be stressful for a lot of people, even if you’re not a last-minute packer. First, you have to decide what to pack. Then, when you have all of your outfits planned, you still have to make them magically fit in your suitcase. Inevitably something will get left behind, whether due to lack of space or forgetfulness.
However, there are some things I know I should absolutely not leave the house without. These are things you should pack for a trip, no matter where you’re going or for how long. I promise they may save you from a headache later!
If you are flying, I recommend putting all of these things in your carry-on or personal item so that even if your checked luggage gets lost or delayed, you still have these essentials.
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10 Things to Pack for a Trip
External Charger
Unfortunately, we all know that dreaded feeling of a low phone battery and either a) not having a charger or b) not being able to find an outlet. While it would be nice not to be tied to one’s phone, realistically you’re going to need your phone while traveling. You may need to get in touch with someone, access your boarding pass, or reserve a car ride.
You can save yourself some stress by carrying an external charger. I have the one below and it’s great because it’s solar-powered! You won’t have to worry about having a charger for your charger; just give it some sun.
An external charger also comes in useful if you don’t have an outlet adapter in a foreign country.
Passport or Identification
It might seem obvious, but one of the most important things to pack for a trip is some form of identification. Depending on your mode of transportation, you may need a driver’s license or passport.
When traveling, I like to keep my identification separate from my wallet. Should the worst happen and my wallet be stolen, I will at least have my ID.
Are you like me and check that you have your passport every 10 seconds? I like to keep my passport safe in a bright-colored passport cover like this.
Reusable Water Bottle
A reusable water bottle is one of the best things to pack for a trip. It’s important to stay hydrated while traveling, especially when flying.
Reusable water bottles are great for several reasons. First, not buying plastic water bottles will save you money; second, it’ll help save the planet! Many airports, rest stops, and hotels have places where you can easily refill your water bottle with safe drinking water.
I brought a collapsable silicone water bottle like this one to Ireland, and it was so handy to fit in a small purse.
Local Currency
More and more places are accepting contactless credit cards. However, it never hurts to pack some local currency (or cash to exchange) for a trip. Cash or coins can come in useful should something happen to your card or account while you’re traveling.
Local currency is good to have for public restrooms in Europe, paying entrance fees in Mexico, and tipping service industry folks in America.
If you are traveling to another country and need to do a currency exchange, you can usually do so at the airport or hotel when you arrive. (Note: The exchange rate may be higher at airports.) You can also check with your local bank about exchanges before you leave.
Toothbrush
One of the most important things to pack for a trip (in my opinion) is a toothbrush. There’s nothing that can make you feel more refreshed on a travel day than a clean mouth. Yes, you can probably purchase one if you get stranded, but better to just be prepared and have one on you.
You can pack your toothbrush in a fancy, Bril UV-C Toothbrush Cleaner or a simple case like this one from GUM.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
While not actually a necessity, I always travel with my noise-canceling headphones. This is especially true if I’m traveling on an overnight flight or long train ride. The easiest way to catch some zzzs is to block out the sound of people around you.
Even if I’m not trying to sleep, wearing noise-canceling headphones helps me focus if I’m working or reading.
For high-quality (but pricier) headphones check out Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones; or if you’re looking for a less expensive pair to pack for a trip, check out HAYLOU S35 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones.
Reusable Travel-Size Containers
Whether you’re going for an overnight or a month, I think it is wise to pack some small containers of your toiletries in addition to your toothbrush. Flights can get cancelled, trains can get delayed, and car tires can pop. Best to be prepared for the worst by having some soap, shampoo, and contact lens solution on hand.
I like using reusable travel-size containers like these. They are TSA-approved, so you can pack them in your carry-on or personal item. Plus, by refilling them from larger containers, you save money and use less plastic.
Small First Aid Kit
Along with being prepared for a snags in one’s plans, a useful thing to pack for a trip is a small first aid kit. (I have my dad to thank for instilling this habit in me.)
I have this Travel Essentials Mini First Aid Kit from Thrive, and it fits a surprising amount of things literally in the palm of my hand. It has useful items including adhesive bandages, alcohol wipes, burn gel, tweezers, and safety pins. It’s a great little thing to pack for outdoor adventures.
Note: Many small first aid kits come with scissors that may not be allowed in carry-on luggage. Don’t forget to take them out if you are flying without a checked bag.
An Extra Layer
No matter where you go, it’s always a good idea to pack an extra layer. Even if you are going on a tropical vacation, I’d recommend adding some long sleeves to your packing list. This could simply be a light sweater, a sweatshirt, or a denim jacket. Alternatively, you could simply pack a scarf.
Whether you encounter air conditioning, a chilly breeze, or a sudden drop in temperature, it’s nice to be prepared. You can always take a layer off, but you can’t add one if you don’t have it.
Extra Underwear
Lastly, one of the most important things to add to your list of what to bring on vacation is extra underwear. I’m of the mindset to add at least two extra pairs because you just never know!
Maybe you end up staying an extra day or maybe it’s so hot you sweat through everything (…speaking from experience). Undies are small enough that they don’t take up much space in your luggage, but can make all the difference.
Honorable Mentions
Depending on where you are going, here are some other useful things to pack for a trip:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hand Sanitizer
- Outlet Adapter
- Umbrella
If you were wondering what to bring on a trip, I hope this list of things to pack has helped. Packing for a trip can be stressful, but it can also be fun since it means you are going on an adventure!
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