87Items
8Categories
50+Trips tested
Built from 50+ trips across 30+ countries. The exact list I run through before every departure — carry-on or checked bag.
Print → "Save as PDF" to keep a copy on your phone
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Passport Check expiry — needs 6 months validity
Travel insurance docs Screenshot + email to yourself
Flight confirmation Offline copy saved on phone
Hotel bookings Printed or saved offline
Debit / credit cards At least 2 — keep in separate places
Local currency Small bills for arrival
Driver's licence Or ID card as backup
Visa / entry documents If required for destination
Emergency contacts card Written — not just in your phone
Passport photos (x2) Useful for unexpected visa needs
EHIC / health card If travelling in Europe
✦ Trip Happens Tip
Photograph every document and email them to yourself before leaving. If your bag is stolen, you'll thank yourself instantly.
T-shirts / tops 3 max — mix neutrals & repeat
Underwear One per day + 2 spare
Socks Include one warm pair
Versatile trousers / jeans One dark pair goes everywhere
Smart outfit (1) For dinners or temple visits
Lightweight jacket Layers always beat bulk
Swimwear Even if not beach — hotel pools
Comfortable walking shoes
Scarf / sarong Cover-up for temples & cold planes
Hat / cap Sun protection + style
✦ Trip Happens Tip
The 1-2-3 rule: 1 pair of shoes, 2 bottoms, 3 tops. Mix neutrals and you'll have a new outfit every day — even on a 2 week trip.
Sunscreen SPF 50 Buy at destination to save space
Shampoo & conditioner Travel-size or solid bars
Moisturiser Planes are brutal on skin
Feminine hygiene products
Hand sanitiser Small bottle for your bag
Dry shampoo Game changer on long trips
Insect repellent Tropical destinations
Prescription medication Pack double in two separate bags
Pain relief Ibuprofen / paracetamol
Antihistamines Allergies + insect bites
Immodium / stomach tablets
Thermometer (travel size)
✦ Trip Happens Tip
Always split your medication between carry-on and checked bag. If one gets lost, you still have your prescription.
Phone + charger Your most important item
Universal travel adapter One that covers all regions
Portable power bank 10,000mAh minimum
Laptop / tablet + charger
Earphones / headphones Noise-cancelling for flights
Portable WiFi / local SIM
Neck pillow Inflatable saves space
Reusable water bottle Empty through security, fill after
Snacks Airline food is never guaranteed
Change of clothes In case luggage is delayed
Pen For landing cards / customs forms
Lip balm & hand cream Plane air is very drying
Entertainment downloaded No WiFi on budget flights
Compression socks Long-haul flights only
Packing cubes The single best packing upgrade
Luggage tag With your contact info inside
Dry bag / waterproof bag Beach or rainy days
Laundry bag Keeps clean & dirty separate
Zip-lock bags (various) Liquids, snacks, wet items
Foldable day bag / tote For day trips from hotel
✦ Trip Happens Tip
The packing cube method: One cube per category — tops, bottoms, underwear. Unpack your entire bag in 90 seconds and find anything instantly.
Microfibre towel Hostels & beach essentials
Duct tape strip Fixes literally anything
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