The Ultimate Packing Checklist

There are some things you’ll always want to pack, no matter where you’re going or for how long. Here’s my version of that list, with links (zero affiliation) to stuff we use and like.

TRAVEL SPECIFIC GEAR

• Eye mask (to block light), ear plugs (to block noise), neck pillow

  Most neck pillows suck, but this one is actually good, and it includes all of the above.

• Compression socks

  Especially important if your flight is super long or you don’t plan to move much. Deep vein thrombosis is real and scary.

• Antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, face masks, oh my!

  It’s very common to get sick while traveling (mostly from lack of sleep), so protect yourself from germs as much as possible. Take your vitamins and pack a few cold and flu pills just in case. There are always pharmacies to re-stock.

• Plug adapters

  The EU ones are different from the Swiss ones are different from the UK ones, so double check you’ve got the ones you need.

  Also, if you’re bringing a hair dryer or other bathroom electronics, check that they’re duel voltage (work with 120 and 240v).

• Compression bags

  These work great for keeping dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff.

BACKPACK ESSENTIALS

• Reusable water bottle

  Ideally, it’s easy to wash and fits in the “cup holder” of your backpack or is reliably leak-proof. We’ve used Takeya bottles for our last few trips and they check all these boxes.

• Snacks + On-the-Go Coffee

  Homemade PB&Js level up our travel days. We also like to bring beef/turkey sticks, pistachios, and granola bars. Check your destination for what food you’re allowed to bring in — especially if it's an island nation like New Zealand or Japan.

  Steeped Coffee is great for when there’s no coffee shop open or no time to stop (all you need is hot water).

• Phone charger, backup battery, headphones

• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, Chapstick

• Basic first aid & medicines

• Tissues

  They’ll come in clutch for when you get the sniffles or when a public restroom is out of TP. Trust me.

• For photos & videos, we typically take our DJI gimbal and phones

  The gimbal is great for filming smooth videos / taking selfies.

  If you’re planning on taking a DSLR camera, GoPro, or Drone — awesome. My only advice: limit the accessories (pick your favorite lens) and make sure you carry your batteries with you. If they end up in checked luggage, they will likely be confiscated.

• Never hurts to have a rain coat

GENERAL ADVICE

• Go digital

  DO NOT bring physical books, your journal, or anything else in print. These add unnecessary weight and clutter. Instead, download your e-books, movies, & podcasts ahead. Organize your trip’s itinerary with Trello. Use apps for everything. Google Maps and Google Translate are your new best friends.

• Get an e-SIM

  It’s official, physical SIM cards are out and e-SIMs are in! Brands like Saily or Airalo make it SO EASY to connect to data as soon as you land! Highly recommend.

• Bring a debit card that refunds ATM fees

  ATMs are how you get your cash. No money exchange. No no no.

• Bring a credit card with no foreign transaction fees

  And a back up card in case the first one gets flagged for fraud. Always pay in the local currency.

  And if you only remember one thing, let it be your

  PASSPORT :)