Who doesn’t love a good packing list? Especially when it means that you do not have to sit and make one for yourself. A lot of the time, I am considered to be an “over” packer. There is no such thing as packing light when it comes to me packing for any time away from home.
Personally, I do not believe that I overpack, I simply feel prepared. However, sometimes I do have to check myself and unpack things because I go overboard with “just-in-case” items. (I’m a packer that likes to be prepared for almost anything.)
Either way, I will try not to overwhelm you with this post. Use this packing list as a guide for you when traveling. Fine tune it to meet your needs, and enjoy your trip!
Using a Good Bag
This is the key to any good/great packing list. If you do not have a good bag, then get one. Whether you’re leaving for a weekend or an extended period of time, without a good, sturdy bag, you might as well carry everything in your hands.
You need a bag that is universal. It should be able to hold everything you need without the worry of it falling apart. The wheels should be stable and able to withstand being on different types of floors and the ground. It should be a water-resistant bag.
Those hard-shell bags are heaven sent. If it rains, you won’t have to worry about your clothes getting soaked. If you are a duffle- and weekender bag kind of person, then make sure to buy a fabric-based bag. Most times, the fabric is thicker, and tougher, and is able to hold all of your things.
Electronic Devices
I go nowhere without my phone (and now my Apple Watch). (I don’t own any other watches, so I don’t have to worry about switching it out.) Most importantly, I keep my phone with me at all times. It is too much going on in the world for people to be without phones. Should you need to access someone, you should have it available.
What about if there’s an emergency? People will need to contact you immediately. It does them no good to try to inform you if you never have your phone on your person.
Additionally, when I travel, I always bring my iPad. Sometimes I can get away with leaving my laptop behind. My iPad? I won’t go on a trip without it. It is my backup should I leave/lose my phone. Plus, sometimes I deem it necessary to download and watch movies from it. Especially if the flight does not have decent movies for me to watch, or if it has WiFi that sucks. AND I love to read my books. I have about 5 reading apps on my iPad, and I take a pick of which one I will use.
Clothing
This goes without saying, but I still have input to add. You should always pack more than enough underwear/undergarments. Additionally, it is easy to forget sleep clothes (aka pajamas). I’m notorious for having to use a spare outfit just for me to sleep in. Additionally, you should always bring an extra outfit or two. You never know what you might need them for. Accidents happen, so be prepared with extra.
On top of that, I always make sure to bring some kind of “dressy-casual” outfit that can be dressed up or down. You might find yourself spontaneously deciding to go to a nicer place/restaurant. Some of them may even have dress codes. By having this extra dressy outfit, you will be prepared and won’t have to panic and do last-minute shopping. (I like my shopping to be stress- and panic-free.)
Toiletries and Makeup
I have always been a bag and shoe lover. Recently, I have gotten into the makeup and makeup bags. I have about six travel makeup bags in my arsenal. I’ve put all but one of them to use. (The one that I haven’t used is a recent purchase.) If makeup isn’t your thing, that’s okay.
EVERYONE needs to have some kind of toiletry bag. You can find small, clear, TSA-approved toiletry bags almost everywhere. Always remember their 3-1-1 rule. If you need more information, check it out here. For those who do not feel it is necessary to spend money on these bags, it’s not a problem. Go ahead and use the quart-sized ziplock bags. They comply with the TSA standards.
In New York, I was able to find the portable, travel-sized containers of Charmin toilet tissue and Bounty paper towels (napkins). I bring them with me everywhere. I, also, bring small packs of facial wipes, hand and body wipes, hand sanitizer, and Clorox wipes. Of course, you will always need your toothbrush and toothpaste, shower gel/soap, lotion, mouthwash, etc. I sometimes go overboard with toiletries. (Then again, I go overboard with a lot of things.)
Shoes and Accessories
Again, like clothing and toiletries, this should be a given. However, what some people miss is bringing appropriate shoes. They bring shoes that may not be the best, as far as comfort. ALWAYS bring comfortable shoes, and a lot of times, those are tennis shoes. If you will be doing a lot of walking, TOMS and sandals may not be the best. However, you know your body, and you know how much you can handle.
Do some research on where you will be visiting to help you figure out what kind of shoes you will need. Also, beware of what kind of accessories you bring. Often people travel with their most valuable jewelry, and they may come up missing at some point on the trip. That’s the reality, so just be careful.
Book(s) to Read
Like my iPad, I rarely travel without a book to read. Most of the time, I prefer to have a physical copy of a book when I am traveling. It helps me conserve my phone and iPad battery. It can become difficult to find an outlet that is not taken in the airport. Therefore, I prefer to leave my electronics alone and use the least amount of battery power possible. I will always recommend that people bring a book, even if it’s a book of puzzles. Or even a coloring book. Just bring something to read.
What Are Your Go-To Travel Items?
What are your must-haves when you pack and travel? Let me know in the comments below. Until next time!
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Hi AmberLynn! I am an over-packer myself, especially now that I am a mother. The only thing I can not go without in trips is my camera phone. To capture every happy moments with my kid. Thanks for the tips.. 🙂
That makes perfect sense. There’s no way that people should go on trips and not take pictures. I completely understand.
I hate packing, but I love to travel! This is a great list, very thorough! And I agree with you the hard shelled suitcases are a godsend. Thanks for sharing.
I can handle packing, but I have having to unpack. Thank you! 🙂
One of my favorite hacks is to save up the trial and sample-sized products that I’m given at Sephora and other places for use when I’m traveling. I never have to pack full-sized toiletries!
That’s a very smart idea. I don’t ever check bags, so it’s convenient to have all travel-sized and sample-sized items.
This is so timely!! I am going on a weekend getaway in just a few weeks and as an overpacker, having a list that will help me stay focused and organized will make all of the difference!
I’m glad to be able to help in any way. Enjoy your trip! 🙂
It sounds like we have similar packing styles 😉 I need to feel prepared! My camera is my Must-Have. Whether it’s my DSLR or my phone – it’s a must!
Great minds think alike 🙂 I agree! The camera is not an option, but I usually just use my phone.
Thank you for the tips! We’re planning to travel this year and this will help a lot! Great post!
Happy and safe travels! I’m glad to help in any way that I can.
Great list! I am an over packer myself. I am leaving for Zambia on Sunday, you should see what I’ve packed lol. I’ve packed for 4 seasons lol
Thank you! LOL I do understand. Enjoy your trip!
This is a great list. We go on road trips a lot in the summer and I basically pack impulsively and last minute. I always forget something. I’m going to book mark this page and plan ahead next time.
Thank you! Happy travels!
comfy shoes is a must! as much as i love fashion and high heels, i cannot wear them long enough for travelling! for make up, not much for me but can’t do without sunblock and mascara!
That is true. Having uncomfortable shoes can ruin the day. My mama always taught me, if you choose to not have makeup, put on mascara and lipgloss.
I am such a list person! I now make sure I include the list so that when I’m packing back up to come home I can make sure nothing gets let behind!
You and me both. If I don’t, I’m practically guaranteed to forget something either going or coming.
Definitely my phone and charger cord! I also try to pack light so I don’t have to check a bag.
If I don’t take anything else, my phone and charger is a MUST!
Such a great list with all travel essentials! I am soon going on a vacation and your list will definitely come handy!
– http://www.allshethings.com
Great comprehensive list! I always pack really well, and then at the last minute end up over packing. Thanks for sharing this resource!
Not a problem. Thank you! 🙂
What a great list! And I agree – everyone needs a toiletry bag. Mie is usually really big and I have more things in there than clothes hahaha
Same! If I forget anything but have my toiletry bag, I’ll be okay. I keep it on me at all times during my travel.