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.
Must-have — never skip this one
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PassportCheck expiry — needs 6 months validity
Travel insurance docsScreenshot + email to yourself
Flight confirmationOffline copy saved on phone
Hotel bookingsPrinted or saved offline
Debit / credit cardsAt least 2 — keep in separate places
Local currencySmall bills for arrival
Driver's licenceOr ID card as backup
Visa / entry documentsIf required for destination
Emergency contacts cardWritten — not just in your phone
Passport photos (x2)Useful for unexpected visa needs
EHIC / health cardIf 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 / tops3 max — mix neutrals & repeat
UnderwearOne per day + 2 spare
SocksInclude one warm pair
Versatile trousers / jeansOne dark pair goes everywhere
Smart outfit (1)For dinners or temple visits
Lightweight jacketLayers always beat bulk
SwimwearEven if not beach — hotel pools
Comfortable walking shoes
Scarf / sarongCover-up for temples & cold planes
Hat / capSun 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 fresh outfit every day — even on a 2 week trip.
Sunscreen SPF 50Buy at destination to save space
Shampoo & conditionerTravel-size or solid bars
MoisturiserPlanes are brutal on skin
Feminine hygiene products
Hand sanitiserSmall bottle for your bag
Dry shampooGame changer on long trips
Insect repellentTropical destinations
Prescription medicationPack double in two separate bags
Pain reliefIbuprofen / paracetamol
AntihistaminesAllergies + 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 + chargerYour single most important item
Universal travel adapterOne that covers all regions
Portable power bank10,000mAh minimum
Laptop / tablet + charger
Earphones / headphonesNoise-cancelling for flights
Portable WiFi / local SIM
Neck pillowInflatable saves space
Reusable water bottleEmpty through security, fill after
SnacksAirline food is never guaranteed
Change of clothesIn case luggage is delayed
PenFor landing cards / customs forms
Lip balm & hand creamPlane air is very drying
Entertainment downloadedNo WiFi on budget flights
Compression socksLong-haul flights only
Packing cubesThe single best packing upgrade
Luggage tagWith your contact info inside
Dry bag / waterproof bagBeach or rainy days
Laundry bagKeeps clean & dirty separate
Zip-lock bags (various)Liquids, snacks, wet items
Foldable day bag / toteFor 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 towelHostels & beach essentials
Duct tape stripFixes literally anything