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The ultimate international travel checklist

If you’re wondering what to pack for traveling abroad, look no further. Here is the ultimate international travel checklist for the young, adventurous traveler.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Oct 27, 2023

Traveling is one of the most rewarding things you can do in life. But for some people, the stress of packing can diminish the exciting anticipation of before, specially if it is the first time that you are planning a trip .

Luckily, the internet is able to connect travelers from all over the globe so we can share our tips and resources for common travel problems . Finding an international travel checklist online can ease some of the pre-trip stress and make you feel more prepared . 

I’ve been traveling abroad consistently for about 5 years, and I’ve done a few trips with Worldpackers. Based on my own travel experiences , and the research I’ve done in the past, I have created my own checklist for international travel .

These essential things to pack for traveling come with me on every single trip I take. So I’m going to share them with the Worldpackers community! Hopefully, this list will help other travelers feel more comfortable when packing to for a trip abroad .

The Ultimate International Travel Checklist

If you’re wondering what to pack for traveling abroad , look no further. This international travel checklist will be sorted into a few categories:

• Travel Essentials
• Entertainment

Other Recommended Items

Covid-19 safety.

Keep in mind, this list is just my personal preference . You don’t have to stick to the list exactly, and you can add or remove things to suit the country and your travel itinerary .

You might also like:  The greatest travel hacking guide you need for a stress-free trip , the best summer travel ideas  and know how much does camping cost.  

International Travel Essentials

Here are some of the things you almost always have to pack for a trip abroad.

1. Sturdy Travel Bag

Your travel bag of choice may vary depending on your travel style and how long you’re traveling. But I’ve always loved just a good old fashioned backpack. 

You can buy huge ones for months on the road, or an average-sized one for a short trip. 

But make sure you get a bag that is comfortable and sturdy, as you’ll depend on it every day while traveling. If you prefer a rolling suitcase, stick with that.

Aside from your main backpack, be sure to bring a smaller bag for day trips. 

A small backpack or large purse is handy for exploring during the day, and you can also use it as a carry-on bag.

3. Universal Travel Adaptor

Remember that many countries have differently shaped electrical outlets on the wall. 

Pick up an adaptor before your trip so you can charge your devices abroad. 

If you really love traveling, I recommend getting a universal travel adaptor so you can adjust it to fit any country in the world.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

To save money and eliminate plastic waste while traveling, pack a good-quality, reusable water bottle. 

If you’re in a country that doesn’t have safe drinking water, sometimes you have no choice but to buy filtered bottled water. 

Or, you can buy a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can clean your own water.

5. Passport and Visas

Your passport is one of the most important things to pack while traveling abroad. Make sure it is in date and won’t expire. 

Also, be sure to research visa requirements before you leave for your trip. 

Most visas are electronic these days, but sometimes you’ll have to mail in your passport to have the visa imprinted. 

So don’t leave this until the last minute! (Also make electronic and hard copies of all important documents, just in case).

6. Travel Insurance

It’s always smart to have travel insurance in case you get sick or injured abroad. 

Do plenty of research and pick a plan that works for you.

7. Medications

If you are on any medications, talk to your doctor before you go traveling and ensure you have enough to last you throughout your trip.

8. Debit or Credit Card

You’ll need money while traveling, so pack your credit or debit cards for withdrawing foreign cash from ATMs. 

Skip transferring money at the airport and do it at a bank in your destination; you’ll get more value for your money as airports often charge high commission rates. 

Consider getting a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees so you can save more money while travelling . 

International Travel Entertainment

These things will make your life easier while traveling. I couldn’t survive a long plane or bus ride without any entertainment!

It’s always nice to have a good book while traveling. They can be quite heavy and bulky in your bag, however, so try not to bring too many. Or invest in a kindle!

10. Journal and Pen

Journaling is a great way to record memories from your trip. 

If you’ve never journaled before, consider trying it out on your next trip abroad. It’s a relaxing way to pass the time, and it helps declutter your mind. 

Also, it’s handy to have your own pen for filling out landing cards or immigration forms on planes!

Whether you have a fancy DSLR camera, a compact digital camera, a GoPro, or a decent smartphone, make sure you have some sort of camera to capture the incredible sights you see on your trip. 

Pack all the necessary accessories too, such as a carry bag, battery, charger, memory card, and more.

12. Headphones

Headphones are one of the most important travel essentials. A podcast or music playlist is great for long travel days, especially if you are a solo traveler .

13. Earplugs

If you’re staying in a busy city or in a hostel dorm room, consider packing earplugs.

 Noises from the street or partying travelers in your hostel can keep you up all night. Earplugs can help block out the noise and give you a good sleep.

Clothing for travelling abroad

Of course, you have to pack clothes for traveling, but clothing preferences will differ from person to person. So aside from the obvious essentials like shirts, shorts, pants, socks, etc., I’ll just list some helpful tips for packing.

14. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Traveling means exploring, which means you’ll probably do lots of walking. Definitely pack your most comfortable pair of shoes for wearing daily. 

There’s nothing worse than getting blisters or sore feet from uncomfortable shoes while traveling!

15. Comfortable Clothes

Again, when it comes to traveling, comfort is more important than style. 

So whatever clothes you are packing, make sure they are clothes you’ll actually enjoy wearing. You want to focus your attention on the world around you, not on your outfits.

16. One or Two Nice Outfits

Though you want to be comfy 99% of the time, I recommend packing 1 or 2 nice outfits for special occasions. 

Whether it’s a party, a nice dinner, or a show, it’s fun to dress up once in a while. 

But you want to optimize the space in your luggage, so only pack a few nice outfits and save space for the practical clothing items.

If you plan to enjoy the nightlife where you go, check this article: 15 best party places in the world

17. Rain Jacket

A good quality rain jacket is definitely a travel essential. 

I find umbrellas to be bulky and inconvenient in windy weather. A nice rain jacket can keep you warm and dry on rainy days.

18. Hiking Boots

If you plan on hiking and connecting with nature , invest in a good quality pair of hiking boots. I’ve done a few hikes in sneakers and just wished I had better shoes the whole time. 

They do take up a bit of room in your bag, so only pack them if you’re an adventurous traveler who will be hiking in nature. But they’re so worth it!

19. Sun Protection

Even if you’re traveling somewhere cold, it’s important to have sun protection. 

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are great ways to protect your skin from the sun while traveling. Also, consider lip balm with SPF in it.

Here are some other random items that I always recommend to pack for a trip abroad.

20. Travel-Sized Toiletries

It’s up to you whether you’d like to pack your own toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, etc. or buy it at your destination. 

If you only need 30ml or less of each, I recommend packing your own. 

But if you’re traveling for a while, it may be easier to just buy it when you arrive overseas.

21. Student ID card

If you’re a student, always travel with your ID card. 

Many tours and attractions overseas have student discounts. So flash your ID to save a little extra money!

22. A Few Plastic Bags

This might seem random, but having one or two plastic bags actually comes in handy while traveling. 

If you have a wet bathing suit or dirty clothes, it’s much more convenient to store them in a plastic bag until you reach your next destination.

23. Microfiber Towel

A microfiber tower dries quickly and rolls up to be much smaller than a normal towel. So it’s perfect for backpacking with limited space!

24. Luggage Locks

If you’re nervous about pickpockets, pack a luggage lock so you can secure the zipper on your bag. 

Most hostel dorm rooms have lockers where you can safely store your belongings, but a luggage lock provides extra security.

More packing tips at the  essential backpacking checklist for every trip .

Let’s face it, the world has changed a lot in 2020 due to the global pandemic. Traveling safely  now means you have to take extra precautions to keep yourself and others safe. 

So pack your face mask, hand sanitizer, any other medications or products you may need and consider our  Covid-19 recommendations and how to support the travel industry during the pandemic .

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Mar 23, 2021

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International Travel Packing Checklist: What Gear to Bring

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Packing for international travel can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the destination’s climate and culture. Even if you manage to bring everything you need, you could end up overpacking and lugging around a heavy suitcase.

To help make your packing experience easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive international travel packing checklist. Just remember to adjust the items on this list based on any specific requirements for your destination and the length of your stay.

The 9 Essentials That Should Always Be On Your International Travel Packing List

• Identification documents: passport, ID card, driver’s license, documents for your children, etc.
• Country-specific documents: visa, vaccination certificate, health forms
• Travel documents: boarding pass, booking confirmations, travel insurance
• Cash: local currency
• Medication: essential over-the-counter and prescription
• Clothing : enough to cover your whole stay
• Extreme weather gear : sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain jacket, cold-weather boots, etc.
• A bag of essential toiletries : shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant
• Electronics gear: country-specific adapters and chargers for your phone, tablet, laptop, etc.

Our Ultimate International Travel Packing Checklist for Men and Women

To download a condensed, free PDF version of our ultimate international travel packing list, click here .

• Electronics

Accessories

Miscellaneous

Some other items that you might need when traveling with toddlers and young children.

When traveling alone or as an adult couple, it’s generally possible to get by with the essentials. However, if you’re traveling with toddlers or young children, there are a few additional items that you should consider bringing.

• Baby food & formula
• Baby monitor
• Diapers and disposable diaper bags
• Toys & books
• Travel crib

Toiletries in Your Hand Luggage Must Follow the 3-1-1 Rule

If you’re bringing your own toiletries in your hand luggage, be sure to follow the 3-1-1 rule . This means your toiletry bag must contain no more than 3.4oz (100ml) containers, must be sealed in a 1-quart (1L) clear, plastic, zip-top bag, and each passenger can only bring one bag. This rule applies to liquids, gels, pastes, creams, and aerosols.

The Rules for Traveling With Electronics

The rules for traveling with electronics depend on the airline, country, and airport that you’re flying to and from.

When traveling to or from the U.S ., for example, you should be aware of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) rules for electronics. These rules require that all electronics larger than a smartphone must be taken out of your carry-on bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening . This includes laptops, tablets, and e-readers.

It’s also important to note that some countries have restrictions on the type of electronics that you can bring into the country. For example, many countries, including China and Brazil, prohibit the import of certain electronics, like iPhones and iPads, and require you to declare these upon arrival.

Certain countries have restrictions around lithium batteries as well . This means you won ‘t be able to bring batteries with more than 100 watt – hours in your carry – on or checked luggage . To check the watt – hours of your batteries , check the label on the battery or the device itself .

Finally , you should be aware that some countries, such as South Africa and India, require you to register your laptop and other electronic devices with customs when you arrive . This is due to the increasing number of laptop thefts and other electronics – related crimes in those countries .

Unfortunately , there is no one – size – fits – all answer when it comes to traveling with electronics , so make sure to do your research before you go .

Don’t Forget the Size and Weight Restrictions for Your Baggage

Underseat bags.

• Must not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 17 lbs (8kg) when combined with the weight of your carry-on

Carry-on bags

• Must not be larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 22 lbs (10kg)

Checked bags

• Must not be larger than 62 linear inches (157 cm)
• Cannot exceed 50 lbs (23kg)

No matter what size or weight restrictions you have, it’s important to make sure you pack smartly and efficiently . To do this, try to use packing cubes and consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This will help you maximize the amount of space in your luggage, so you can bring all the essentials without having to worry about the size or weight limits.

Which Items You’ll Need to Remove When Going Through Security

When you’re getting ready to go through security, there are a few items that you’ll need to remove from your carry-on bag and person. These include:

• Laptops and tablets
• All electronics larger than a smartphone
• Metal jewelry
• All liquids, gels, and aerosols
• Belts and other accessories

If you have any food items in your carry-on, you may also be asked to remove them for inspection.

It’s also important to note that some countries, such as the U.S., require you to remove your laptop, tablet, and other electronics from your bag even if you’re not checking them through security.

Which Items You Should Pack In Your Personal Item, Carry-On, and Checked Luggage

When traveling, it’s important to know which items you should pack in each type of luggage, as this will help you stay organized and minimize the amount of time you spend at the security checkpoint . Here is a quick breakdown of what should go in your personal item, carry-on, and checked luggage:

Personal Item

• Travel documents

Checked Luggage

As a general rule, it’s best to keep all valuables, medications, and important documents with you in your personal item and carry-on. This will ensure that you always have access to these items and that they remain safe.

Which Items You’re Allowed to Take for Free in Addition to Hand Luggage

When traveling, you’re usually allowed to take a few items for free in addition to your hand luggage. This typically includes a personal item, such as a laptop bag, a purse, or a briefcase, as well as a jacket or coat.

However, some airlines may limit the number of items you can bring for free, so it’s best to check your airline’s policy before you travel.

Tips on How to Save Space When Packing for an International Vacation

Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to end up overpacking or lugging around a heavy suitcase. To make your packing experience easier, here are a few tips on how to save space when packing for an international vacation:

1. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help you save a lot of space in your suitcase.

2. Pack Lightweight, Versatile Clothes

Bringing lightweight and versatile clothes will help you save space and minimize the amount of clothes you need to pack.

3. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organized and maximize the amount of space in your luggage.

4. Wear Your Bulkiest Clothes

If you’re traveling to a cold destination, wear your bulkiest clothes, such as your winter coat, on the plane. This will help you save space in your suitcase.

5. Leave Some Space for Souvenirs

Make sure to leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs, as this will help you avoid having to buy an additional bag to bring them home.

6. Pack Multi-Purpose Items

Bringing items that serve multiple purposes, such as a scarf that can also be used as a blanket, will help you save space and avoid having to bring multiple items for the same purpose.

7. Invest in a Lightweight Suitcase

Investing in a lightweight suitcase can help you save space and make it easier to carry your luggage.

Don’t Bring These Prohibited Items

When traveling internationally, you should be aware of the items that are prohibited on planes and in certain countries. These items include:

• Flammable and combustible liquids
• Sharp objects
• Electronic cigarettes
• Hoverboards

Make sure to check your destination’s customs regulations and the airline’s policy before you pack, as some countries and airlines may have additional restrictions.

Don’t Forget These Long-Haul Essentials for a Comfortable Flight

Taking a long-haul flight can be tiring and uncomfortable, so it’s important to make sure you bring the essentials to ensure a comfortable flight. Here are a few items you should bring on a long-haul flight:

• Neck pillow
• Water bottle
• Travel blanket
• Compression socks
• Entertainment (books, movies, music, etc.)
• Disinfecting wipes

Many of these will be provided by the airline, but they may not be up to your standards, so it’s always best to bring your own.

What to Look Out for When Shopping for New, Sturdy Luggage

When shopping for new luggage, you should look for a few key features to ensure you get a sturdy and reliable suitcase. Here are a few tips on what to look out for:

While hardside luggage made from ABS is likely to be the cheapest on the market, it’s also the most prone to damage. If you’re looking for a suitcase that will last, opt for a polycarbonate or aluminum piece. If you prefer softside luggage, go for a high-denier nylon or polyester piece.

Read more:  The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Materials

Most hardside luggage is fitted with spinner wheels, which are great for maneuverability. However, take a look at the wheels to make sure they’re durable and have quality bearings. For softside luggage, in-line wheels provide excellent stability and can be rolled along almost any surface.

Make sure the handle is adjustable and sturdy. Ergonomically designed handles place the least strain on your wrists as you wheel your suitcase. You should also ensure that your suitcase has carry handles so it can be lifted with ease when needed.

Zippers & Locks

Opt for a piece with good-quality zippers and an integrated TSA lock. YKK zippers are considered the best on the market.

Many manufacturers offer a limited warranty that covers any defects in the material and workmanship. Make sure you read the warranty carefully and check the length of the coverage before you make your purchase.

The weight of a suitcase is largely dependent on the materials used to make the piece, and generally speaking, hardside suitcases usually weigh more than softside suitcases. If you’re considering a hardside suitcase, opt for one made from polycarbonate or ABS, as these are the lightest materials on the market. For softside luggage, nylon and polyester are the lightest materials.

Read More:  How Much Does an Empty Suitcase Weigh on Average?

Final Words

Packing for an international trip can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that anything you forget will likely be available wherever you’re traveling.

By following this international travel packing checklist and the tips provided, you can make sure you have everything you need for your trip without having to lug around a heavy suitcase.

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The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

• Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
• Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
• Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
• Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
• Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

• Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
• Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
• Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
• Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
• Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
• Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
• Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
• Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
• Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
• Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
• Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

• Quality 4.8 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags , it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

• Organization 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

• Portability 3 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer to curate the best options to suit most needs and international destinations.

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• GENERAL TRAVEL

The Essential International Travel Checklist PDF for Newbies

Liz is a collector of grand adventures. She first discovered her passion for meaningful travel wh...

• Before You Go
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So you’ve decided to take the leap into international travel and your trip is just around the corner… but now what? The plan is in motion and anticipation sets in. Whether you’re planning to study , volunteer , work , intern , and just embark on a grand adventure abroad , any form of international travel is best planned ahead of time. After all, there are more things to do before traveling than just packing a suitcase and booking a flight (try our Flights page for discounted airfare for students!).

Whether you’re an organization freak or just want to prepare yourself in the best way possible, you need a clear plan with clear steps. A before travel checklist is the way to go.

Are you ready to GET YO’ TRAVEL ON?

No idea where to start? Lucky for you, GoAbroad has you covered! Here you’ll find the ultimate international travel checklist , complete with a planning timeline and packing list to make things easy for you. From the essential to-do’s , like picking your program and applying for visas, to finalizing itineraries and saying goodbye to family and friends, our pre-travel checklist will walk you through the six months leading up to your big trip abroad.

[ Download Our Meaningful Travel Checklist PDF Right HERE ]

It’s baby steps from here on out! Get moving on your to-do list early to eliminate the stress that comes with preparing for overseas travel. If you pace yourself now, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip abroad to the absolute fullest when the time comes!

A timeline of things to do before traveling

From the moment you decide to embark on travel abroad, it’s time to start planning. In fact, it’s never too early—the sooner you start to tick off items on your before travel checklist, the sooner you can relax and have fun!

3-6 months before departure

First things first: You need to pick a program (if you haven’t already). This first step is the most important, as it will determine how you go about planning in the coming months. There are endless opportunities for meaningful travel abroad, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, you aren’t alone. But selecting your program is the fun part (think online shopping!), and GoAbroad’s Online Advisor can help. Simply make a profile with your personal details and wildest travel dreams, and we’ll match you up with the best programs to help you reach your goals.

 Submit your application several months in advance—the earlier the better—and once accepted, you can start working on the travel logistics. Do you have a valid passport? If you’re an international travel virgin, you’ll need to apply for one right away. Make sure it’s valid for the dates of your trip. Have you booked flights? Are there visa requirements? Give yourself plenty of time for the paperwork. Does your program have additional requirements? Do you need a TEFL certification? What about CPR? Get crackin’ early so you aren’t pressed for time.

You’ll need to sort out your funding at this stage, too. Start budgeting to save for your trip, or look into scholarships and fundraising to cover what you can’t afford. Travel abroad can put a big dent in your bank account, but as long as you have a game plan, the price will be totally worth it. 

1-3 months before departure

Get a stellar haircut and tie up other loose ends, like doctor’s appointments or visits to the bank.

If you’re planning for an extended time abroad, your international travel checklist should include all of the necessary appointments to make sure you’re in optimum health for travel abroad. Schedule checkups with your dentist, doctor, and any specialists, sort out prescription medication for the length of your trip, and maybe even visit your hair stylist to make sure you’re feeling and looking good before you go! 

Your trip preparation checklist isn’t all tedious paperwork in the first several months. Now is the time to spread the word! Tell your family and friends so they can share the excitement with you, let your school or employer know about your plans so they can prepare for your departure, and connect with in-country staff to get more information about your program. Get inspired: do some research on your destination. Read guide books or novels by local authors. Reading ain’t your thing? Check out a documentary or listen to some music to get in touch with the country’s roots. The more you learn, the more real your trip abroad becomes!

One month before departure

Time is flying by! A month may sound like a long time, but you’ll be on that plane in no time. With your departure date quickly approaching, now is the time to hunker down and think about what still needs to be accomplished on your before travel checklist. No more procrastination!

Before you start on your one-month before travel checklist, make sure you’ve checked off any outstanding paperwork for visas and passports. Are your flights booking, programs confirmed, and budget in place? Once this is out of the way, your international travel checklist will help to finalize the fine details. Confirm your travel itinerary and accommodations with your program and lay the groundwork for any personal travel. If you plan to veer away from the group, think about transportation and hostel arrangements.

Next on the trip preparation checklist: start to tie up the loose ends. Buy the essentials from your packing list and say goodbye to friends, family, and your favorite restaurants. You don’t realize it now, but a Chipotle craving is bound to happen while you’re abroad, so eat that burrito and don’t feel bad about splurging on the extra guac!

Impt item on you before travel checklist: Eat all the guac you can!

Need to brush up on those language skills? Buy a pocket dictionary or download Duolingo for your free time to brush up on key phrases and slang of your destination. You’ll want to pat yourself on the back when you can find your way around or have a short conversation with locals without a translator. 

Speaking of communication, make a plan with family and friends on how to keep in touch while you’re abroad. You won’t want to be tied to your phone or social media, but it’s a good idea to find an outlet to share your travels with those at home. Ever considered blogging?

Start getting EXCITED! This is the time to celebrate and have fun before your big adventure. Don’t forget to throw yourself a going away party, so all your besties can wish you bon voyage! 

One week before

The time has nearly come! At this point, there aren’t too many things to do before traveling. In a perfect world, your before travel checklist should be all checked off. Your passport and visa are ready, itineraries are finalized, necessities have been purchased. If you’ve been on top of your international travel checklist thus far, your last week will be a breeze.

There are just a few things left on your pre-travel checklist during your last week before departure. If you haven’t already, you’ll want to purchase travel insurance . Some programs include this in the program fee, so best to check with them first. If not, get this sorted right away—and no cutting corners with this one! You never know what can happen, and you’ll want the best coverage possible in case of emergency while abroad. 

One of the most important things to do before traveling is packing your bags—smartly. Don’t overdo it!

Don’t forget to contact your bank and let them know you’ll be traveling. You don’t want to run into difficulties with credit or debit cards while you’re overseas. Enquire about travel cards, or think about exchanging currencies so you have cash for your first week or two after arrival.

And last, but not least, pack those bags! Make sure you keep two copies of all travel documents and IDs in your carry-on, along with some clean underwear and a toothbrush. As for the rest, your program should provide you with some must-haves before you set off on your trip abroad.

Download our travel checklist PDF ! 

Are you ready to take the plunge into international travel? If you’re committed to meaningful travel abroad, it’s time to get the ball rolling on the prep work. Download GoAbroad’s ultimate pre-travel checklist PDF to get organized for your trip abroad. Straightforward and simple, our international travel checklist will make your life a million times easier while preparing for travel!

 Not only do you get the essential international travel checklist, but GoAbroad has thrown in a bonus packing list. Whether you’re going for a week or a year, you’ll have the essentials covered. In addition to comfy clothes, don’t forget a few key items: 

• Your passport!
• Cash and debit card on hand
• Travel-sized toiletries
• Any medications or vitamins you need
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Headphones, chargers, and adaptors
• Translating device
• Earplugs and eye mask
• A good book and journal
• Walking shoes and flip flops
• Emergency contacts for your program staff
• Extra underwear—remember, you can never have too many undies! 

Your daypack should carry all the essentials: ALL paperwork, toothbrush and deodorant for those journeys that turn into days on end without a shower, something cozy to snuggle on the plane, snacks, and anything else to make your trip more enjoyable. 

You’re ready to make all of your life abroad and international travel dreams come true.

Remember to pack light! It can be easy to over-pack, especially when preparing for an extended overseas trip. Less is more when packing for your trip abroad. Whether you’re packing for a short-term volunteer stint or a year working overseas , the strategy is the same. Stick with clothing that can be layered or hand washed, and leave heavy books, high heels, hair dryers, and random accessories at home. You’ll be able to buy any clothes you need and most toiletries upon arrival, and that extra suitcase room will come in handy later for souvenirs.

You’re ready to get those travel plans rolling

That wasn’t too bad now, was it? Now for the fun part: stop daydreaming and put those travel plans into motion. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready for every excitement and challenge that comes with travel abroad. Throw your stresses behind you and dive headfirst into the trip of a lifetime. Adventure awaits!

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Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

The Ultimate Travel Packing List

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Creating my Travel Packing List was my least favorite part of planning our Around the World Trip. When I sought out help, the general travel checklist I found was of little use. I wanted – I needed –  a detailed list of what to pack for my trip. 

With little assistance, I floundered through the process of creating my own travel packing checklist – but I succeeded! Now, I’m sharing my list of travel essentials – including very specific details about what to pack for a trip – in this Ultimate Travel Checklist. 

Best Travel Packing List

When I was determining what things to pack for my trip, I was torn between being a minimalist traveler and the fact that I was packing for a year-long adventure that would span all seasons. (Most travelers aren’t faced with this challenge, so I share important tips about how to create a packing list for a week or two throughout this post!) 

Furthermore, as a budget-conscious traveler, I was faced with creating a travel packing checklist that included essential travel items, plus several Just-In-Case items, so that I wouldn’t have to buy them on the road. It was a strenuous task, but I am now convinced that I have created the Ultimate Packing List.  

My detailed packing list includes every item I carry – as well as the bags I carry it all in – with detailed specifics of those travel items, too. 

It is, perhaps, important to note that while we are full-time travelers, what I pack does not differ greatly from what I would pack for a week-long vacation. Whether you are looking for an international travel packing list for a week in Europe or a backpacking packing list for a month-long trip to Southeast Asia, our universal packing list can help!

In this post, I talk in detail about my trip packing list – including why some items are necessary and which items can be left behind.

To help fellow travelers, we also have a printable travel checklist that we share – download our free checklist for packing, plus get other valuable travel tips!

Travel Packing Trouble

I’ve never met anyone who loves packing for a trip. In fact, I think packing for a vacation is the most daunting, upcoming-trip-buzz-killer there is. Incorporating necessities for traveling, comfort and style – and resisting the urge to pack everything you own – can be a real struggle.

I used to be an over-packer with a long packing list that went on forever. I was the traveler who checked two large suitcases for a one-week vacation…and only wore about a fifth of what was packed. However, those days of arriving at a hotel amongst a pile of suitcases are long behind me.

The more I traveled, the savvier I became. Coordinated outfits, essential toiletries and sensible shoes were the items I packed. I had a streamlined formula that destroyed my packing dilemma. I could pack for a week-long, overseas trip in about an hour; for weekend jaunts, I could pack and be out the door in 20 minutes’ time.

Travel Packing List for Year-Long Trip

When we decided to spend a year traveling the world, I contemplated what I would carry…and all of my packing angst returned. I spent weeks poring over packing checklists, agonizing over what would make the cut and fretting what would be left behind.

I read travel blogs that insisted I needed over-priced travel products on my list for packing; a farce I regrettably fell for regarding some items and good advice I carelessly dismissed regarding others. Yet, I retained enough self-awareness to know some travel items would never make my world travel packing list.

On the day we boarded that long haul flight to begin our around the world journey , my biggest source of stress was worrying over what I had packed.

Our one year of full-time travel turned into two…and two years turned into three. In that time, my packing worries diminished. Packing is no longer a source of anguish; I’m happy with my packing choices. Since we started our nomadic life in April 2014, what I carry in my backpack has barely changed – only requiring a few small adjustments and tweaks.

{For more insight to packing for long-term travel, read our post, What I Packed to Travel the World }

Packing for Vacation List

Somewhat surprisingly, creating a packing list for vacation is not that different from creating a long-term travel packing list. Travelers going on a trip to a neighboring state or on a vacation to the other side of the world can use my sample packing list as a guideline of what to bring. 

When packing for a long trip – anything over a week and definitely when packing for a two-week vacation or longer – determine if you can do laundry during your trip. This will help keep your clothing packing list to a minimum. 

Every traveler should tailor their packing checklist to the specific destination. When packing for a trip, keep in mind the weather and activities you will be participating in. Also, determine whether or not you will need to bring electronics (like laptops) and what kind of travel camera you want to bring on your trip. 

Ultimate Packing List For World Travel and Vacations

My packing list seldom varies, but if I add (or get rid of!) anything to what I pack, I update this Packing List.

I’ve provided a link to each item so you can see if it will work for your packing list for travel. I have attempted to link to the exact product (make, model and color) that I own, but some of the things I pack are no longer available. In that case, I’ve linked to a similar product.

I share my packing list information in an effort to help other travelers create their packing lists for vacation, but packing is extremely personal. Above all, my best packing advice: Pack What’s Comfortable!

Get Your FREE Packing Checklist!

TRAVEL CLOTHES

When it comes to making a travel items list, the best place to start is with clothing.

I pack clothes that can be worn in all weather; the items I carried in my backpack to Iceland in winter   are the same as when we travel to Vietnam . While my list of clothes to pack will likely work for travelers making a vacation packing list for California in the spring (when it’s warm during the day and cool at night) or to Croatia in the autumn , I think summer or winter travelers should plan clothing that is better suited for the hot or cold weather.

Likewise, if you are creating a beach vacation packing list – or are packing for a cruise to the Arctic –  then you will want to tailor your checklist to weather-appropriate gear.

Pro Tip: All clothing on your travel items list should be of the same color scheme to create a travel capsule wardrobe. This is a great hack for packing light – as you will need to pack fewer clothing items overall. Find out more about creating your capsule wardrobe and other top tips in our Packing Hacks article!

Pants, Skirts and Dresses: Vacation Packing List Tips

My trip packing checklist includes a variety of bottoms – including jeans, yoga pants, leggings, capris, a skirt and a skort – but I only pack one pair of each. Many minimalist travelers warn against packing heavy jeans, but honestly, I love wearing jeans – so they make my packing list for vacation and world travel.

One thing that I don’t travel with is zip-off, convertible pants – and here is why: I am not comfortable wearing them. I do think they are brilliant – and I would even say they are backpacking essentials if you are an adventure traveler or extreme minimalist.

However, as I mentioned earlier, you must be comfortable in the clothes you wear on your trip. I packed zip-off pants for my first trip to Europe and I hated wearing them because I didn’t think they were fashionable (I will admit, however, that the styles have come a long way since then!).

In warmer weather destinations, I love wearing dresses for long days of sightseeing…but they are also great for cool weather, when I can warm up the outfit with leggings and my thin hoodie. (This is why matching all clothing items is key!) My dresses are casual, loose-fitting and non-revealing (so that I am able to visit attractions – like churches and temples – in destinations where modesty is required).

Pack for Travel List: Pants, Skirts and Dresses 

• 1 pair jeans (or casual pants  or zip-off pants )
• 1 pair loose yoga pants with pockets
• 1 pair moisture-wicking  leggings
• 1 pair cargo  capris or shorts
• 1 thin, cotton  skirt
• 2 casual dresses
• 1 casual  skort

Long Sleeve Shirts, Short Sleeve Shirts and Tank Tops: Travel Packing List Advice

When we first left to travel the world, I didn’t pack enough shirts – I only had 1 tank top, 2 t-shirts and 3 long sleeve shirts in my bag. It was a huge mistake, as I was constantly doing laundry in both warm and cold weather climates. I have since added additional shirts without adding too much weight to my bag, which has resulted in seriously cutting down on the time I spend doing sink laundry!

That said, washable, quick-drying, non-wrinkling shirts are packing essentials. Pay close attention to the materials of the clothing you pack. If you need to wash a shirt on the road, you want to know that it will dry quickly – and that any wrinkles will shake out of clothing after taking it out of your bag.

Travel List to Pack for Shirts and Tops

• 4 long sleeve quick drying shirts
• 1 long sleeve cotton shirt
• 3  tank tops
• 1 thin  camisole  used for bottom layer or beachwear
• 3 loose fitting  t-shirts
• 1 thin, zip up  hoodie

Undergarments, Pajamas and Swimsuits: Packing Lists Tips

It seems to me that most travelers either over-pack or under-pack undergarments. Those who over-pack argue that you should have 1 (and sometimes 2!) pairs of underwear and socks for every day of the trip.

Minimalist packers contend that undergarments are the easiest to sink wash and the quickest to dry, so there is no reason to pack more than 5 pairs of each for any length trip. I pack 8 pairs of underwear and 8 pairs of socks (which is also what I recommend for anyone who is making a packing list for a week or longer).

ExOfficio underwear are all the rage for travelers – but, personally, they haven’t lived up to my expectations due to an awkward fit, color breakdown and ripped elastic. I still travel with them (mostly because of the money I shelled out to buy them), but I much more prefer wearing the breathable Fruit of the Loom bikini underwear – which cost a mere fraction of the price of ExOfficio.

Travel Packing Checklist for Undergarments

• 1 set of  pajamas
• 1 bikini swimwsuit (choose one swimsuit that fits your style)
• 4  Exofficio underwear
• 4 Fruit of the Loom underwear
• 2 sport bras
• 2 bras and 1 racerback bra
• 6 athletic socks
• 2 socks for flats or slip on shoes
• 1 fuzzy socks or travel slippers
• 1 compression socks

Travel Outerwear: Coats, Gloves, Hats, Scarves and Wraps

We travel in all seasons, so I pack a variety of caps and gloves (as I found they were necessary after we first started traveling). However, for a shorter, destination-specific trip, I would choose between thin and wool, rather than packing both. And, quite obviously, winter apparel is completely unnecessary if making a beach trip packing list. 

The most multi-function clothing item I pack is my wrap – and, in my opinion, it is an essential item for travelers. In addition to its obvious purpose, I have used mine as a beach towel, bath towel, picnic blanket, airport blanket and bus pillow. The one I carry is black, thin and cost around $10…and I use it all the time.

I have – unfortunately – gone through several pairs of sunglasses since we started traveling. I started with my favorite – and expensive – pair of  Maui Jim sunglasses , but lost them while in Ireland. After that, I went ultra-cheap…and wasn’t surprised when three consecutive pairs broke just after a few weeks of use. I currently travel with a moderately-priced pair of polarized sunglasses, which are sufficient…but not heartbreaking if they get lost or broken. (That said, I am looking forward to the day I upgrade to Maui Jim’s again!)

List of What To Pack for Outerwear 

• 1 lightweight zip up fleece (with zip pockets)
• 1 water resistant jacket (which fits over fleece)
• 2 fashion scarves (or a secret zippered pocket Travel Scarf )
• 1 versatile  wrap
• 1 baseball cap (or travel hat )
• 1 thin winter cap
• 1 warm winter cap
• 1 pair of thin winter gloves (with touchscreen functionality)
• 1 pair of wool mittens
• Sunglasses for travel

Travel Shoes: Packing Advice

When it comes to shoes, I think most travelers can get by with just 3 pairs. Shoes take up too much space to pack any more than that. Make sure the shoes you choose for your trip go with all of your outfits and – most importantly – that they are comfortable for exploring. 

For more detailed information about what shoes to pack for your trip, read our blog post, The Best Travel Shoes !

Shoes for Travel Packing Checklist

• 1 pair walking shoes for sightseeing and hiking
• 1 pair casual shoes (or casual travel flats or foldable flats )
• 1 pair flip flops

TRAVEL TOILETRIES LIST

When it comes to your toiletries packing list, it is important to strike a balance between space-saving items and short-changing yourself. Our best recommendation when packing toiletries is to consider the overall length of your trip. If you are packing for two weeks or less, it is best to pack travel-size toiletries.

That said, bathroom essentials are available all around the world, so replacing these items while traveling is not likely an issue. If you are packing for a long trip, it might be better to bring some full size toiletries (but it really depends on where you are going and how much it would cost to replace them at your destination).

Pro Tip : One more thing to consider is that the price of sunscreen and shaving cream is ridiculously inflated in some of the top destinations around the world, so it’s best to pack an ample supply.

Essential Travel Toiletries Tips

Re-fillable travel bottles are the way to go for bathroom essentials like lotions and shampoo. Many travelers swear by the GoToob brand. If you don’t have travel size bottles, however, many travel-size items are sold together in a convenient toiletry travel kit . 

I used to travel with disposable facial cloths (cut into halves or quarters to make the box last longer), but now just use regular soap to wash my face. I have also used soap or hair conditioner instead of shaving cream.

Essential Travel Toiletries List

• Toiletry bag with hanger (for bathrooms where there is a hook, but no counter space)
• Travel size Bar Soap (just in case it is not provided at our accommodations)
• Shampoo Conditioner 2-in-1 (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
• Travel size Shaving Cream
• Travel size Hair Brush
• Electric Toothbrush
• Travel size Toothpaste
• Retainers (with case and special brush)
• Unscented Body Lotion (in 3-ounce, refillable bottle )
• Facial Cleansing Wipes and/or Individual Makeup Remover Wipes
• Everyday Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen
• Full or Travel size Deodorant
• Kleenex travel pack
• Toilet paper (folded in a snack-size ziplock or these handy travel rolls )
• Tweezers, Nail Clippers, Nail File Kit
• Cuticle Cream
• Quick-dry Washcloth

Makeup and Travel Essentials for Women: Advice for What To Pack

While we do include makeup on this packing list for women, I recommend keeping it simple with just a few makeup travel bag essentials.

Also, ladies, don’t forget to put feminine products on your travel essentials list! In some countries – like many in South America and several in Europe – the choice of feminine products isn’t as liberal as in other parts of the world (like the United States). If you have a preference for tampons, you should pack them, as they may not be available where you are traveling. Some female travelers like to use the Diva Cup . 

Women Travel Essentials List

• Face Powder
• Face Powder Brush and Concealer Brush
• Eyelash Curler (travel size)
• Feminine products
• Simple Fashion Jewelry

Travel First Aid Bag: Advice for Packing Lists

My first aid travel bag is one of my must-have travel items. I carry an assortment of medications (both prescription and over the counter) that are within easy reach if I need them.

Medicine bottles can take up a lot of space and it can be tempting to just mix all the medications together, which isn’t ideal. I use small, individual  jars  with screw caps to store medications – and use a marker to label each bottle. A weekly pill box could also work in a travel first aid kit.

For more of our tips, read our blog post Staying Healthy While Traveling !

First Aid Kit List of What To Pack

• Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer
• No-rinse hand cloths or Wet Ones Wipes
• Band Aids,   Antiseptic and Cortizone Cream
• Tums and Anti-diarrhea
• Dayquil and Emergen-C
• Anti-histamine
• Sea bands (for motion sickness)
• Medications

TRAVEL ODDS AND ENDS

All of our odds and ends items may not be necessary for a weekend packing list, but a few of these items are all-star travel accessories…and you might already have them around the house.

Check out our list of Everyday Items for Travel for tips on why you should pack these items!

Pack for Travel: List of Just in Case Items

• Silk Sleep Sack
• Sleeping Mask and Ear Plugs (this is one of our essentials for Long Haul Flights )
• Water Bottle (these collapsible water bottles are great for travelers!)
• Bottle Opener
• Mini Mag Light Flashlight
• Mini roll of duct tape
• Binder clips , carabiner clips and rubber bands
• Re-sealable plastic bags: sandwich and gallon size
• Combination lock
• Small Scissors , Sewing kit and extra safety pins
• Travel size laundry detergent (for machine and sink )
• Travel Umbrella
• Playing Cards
• Business cards (hey, you never know!)
• Travel Journal
• 2 pens and 1 marker

TRAVEL ELECTRONICS

As digital nomads, carrying all of these electronics are essential. It does, however, complicate travel days, so we only recommend that you pack what you will really use on your trip!

Electronics Travel Items List

• Cell phone, iPhone, iPad, iPod
• Laptop (similar to this slim Samsung Notebook ) or Tablet (like a  Kindle )
• External Hard Drive
• DSLR Camera (with slim camera case and extra battery )
• Point and Shoot Camera (with case )
• SD Card (2)
• Headphones (2)
• Cords and battery chargers
• Universal Converter
• Portable Wifi and Charger Power Bank
• Portable Speaker
• 128GB thumb drive (3)

What We Pack In For Travel

What we pack in is just as important as the items on our packing checklist. When flying to a destination, you will need to consider whether you want to deal with checked luggage or carry on only – as that can have a big impact on your list of what to pack. If you do decide to check a bag, read our tips on how to avoid your luggage getting lost .

We carry backpacks, rather than suitcases, because we think it is a more efficient way to travel. You can read more about the pros and cons of both in our article, Backpack vs Suitcase !

Either way, the actual size of your luggage is a major consideration when creating your packing list for traveling. Both your luggage size and weight can incur extra baggage fees if traveling by plane. 

Travelers attempting to avoid extra fees will likely want to stick to a Trip Essentials list – rather than including any just-in-case items that can be purchased on arrival if needed.  

• Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes are the top item on our travel accessories list (and one of our best overall packing tips)! We splurged on packing cubes and compression bags before we started traveling full-time – and it was, without a doubt, one of the very best pre-travel purchases we made.

We cannot imagine traveling without them as they help to save space and organize our travel gear. For more details, read about the benefits of Packing Cubes in our post, 5 Ways Packing Cubes Make Travel Easier !

I travel with a Messenger Bag – which doubles as my Carry-On and my Day Pack. When traveling by plane, it is essential to take a carry-on size personal item onto the plane that will fit under your seat. We feature other styles of day bags in our blog post, Which is the Best Day Pack for Travel ?

What Bags To Pack: Travelers Packing Checklist

• Lowe Alpine Walkabout 45 backpack (similar to this backpack ) &  Osprey Farpoint (for Kris)
• Messenger Bag or other Day Bag
• Compression Bags
• Passport and document organizer (for extra credit cards, plus extra copies of passports and travel documents)
• Money Belt and Bra Stash or Neck Pouch
• Wallet and Small purse
• Foldable, reusable shopping bag  

Trip Documents

I have covered the top things to pack for a trip, but don’t forget to put your trip documents on your Travel Necessity list! 

Plane tickets and boarding passes, hotel reservation information and trip insurance documentation all need to be packed in your bag. And, don’t forget your driver’s license, credit cards and cash. 

For an International Packing List, make sure you have your passport and international driver’s license (if needed). I also highly recommend including a No-International-Fee credit card for your Overseas Travel Packing List – to avoid paying extra fees. It’s also wise to make copies of important documents to pack separately from the originals – just is case. 

Also pack your Travel Planner with your trip itinerary, hotel reservations and other trip details. Don’t have a trip planner? Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of your trip plans!

Tips for Specific Packing Lists

My Ultimate Travel List covers the entire contents of my luggage for full-time, Around The World travel. But what if you are a traveler seeking a 2 Week Travel Packing List or need a packing list for beach vacation? No worries – using my Ultimate Packing Checklist as a base and a few of my top tips, you can create your best checklist for traveling. 

What To Pack for a Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Creating a packing checklist for vacation for a week is not that different from my worldwide travel pack list. That said, travelers creating a One Week Packing List will certainly want to swap out a few items from my list of travel essentials above. 

Rather than choosing items to pack for a trip that work in both hot and cold climates, select apparel and accessories for your One Week Travel Packing list that are in season. 

For example, if going to a cold weather destination, you likely won’t need to pack capris, shorts, a skirt or skort (but you still may want to pack one dress for an evening out). However, instead of just eliminating these items, you want to swap them out for cold weather items – like another pair of jeans and a comfy pair of sweatpants. 

Additionally, for a 1-Week Vacation Packing Checklist, determine what Odds and Ends and Electronic items are necessary for your trip. Items like a combination lock, sleep sack and a laptop might not need to be packed for your trip. 

What To Pack for a 2 Week Trip – Checklist Tips

Packing for a two week trip requires little adjustment from my detailed packing list above – but only if you have access to a washing machine. 

Travelers creating a 2 Week Packing List without access to laundry facilities at the halfway mark of their trip will be required to either pack a lot more clothing or do sink laundry. 

That said, travelers not planning on doing laundry during their two week trip do not necessarily need to pack 14 complete outfits. Pants and sweatshirts that go over another shirt could possibly be worn more than once on your trip without being washed. 

As you make your two week travel packing list, resist the temptation to pack more than you need for your trip – as heavy luggage will weigh you down! 

Beach Vacation Travel Necessities List

Beach vacations require a specific list of travel essentials that differs slightly from my outlined list above. 

For a dedicated beach vacation, I highly recommend bringing at least 2 (if not 3) swimsuits so that each suit can be rinsed and have time to dry in between beach and pool sessions. 

Additionally, your Beach Essential Travel Packing List needs to include ample sun protection. It is wise to bring plenty of sunscreen (either a large sunscreen that will need to be checked or two TSA-approved size carry on bottles of sunscreen ) – as well as a travel hat that will provide shade from the sun. Water shoes , a beach towel, a waterproof bag for your phone and snorkel gear are other travel packing essentials for the beach. 

Complete Travel Check Off List

I have listed every item that I pack for traveling in order to help you come up with your ultimate list. That said, travel packing lists are very personal – and not necessarily the same for every single trip.

To get started with your perfect Vacation Travel Packing list, it’s best to write down the items you intend to pack in your suitcase. To help, we have created an ideal Travel Packing List template. If you want our printable lists for packing, get them here .

Start planning your next big trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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International Travel Checklist: 33 Essential Things You Must Do Before Your Trip

Traveling Internationally Checklist: Essential Things to Do Before International Travel

This is the all-important pre-travel things to do list for worldwide travel.  Go through this essential international travel checklist as soon as you book your trip. Some of the most important things need to be done well in advance–like checking your passport expiration date!  Refer back to the list as your trip gets closer.

International Travel Checklist

***Before booking your trip, check if there are any covid restrictions and requirements for travel.  Keep checking for any changes until you leave for your trip.

After Booking Your Trip:

♦ Check that your passports do NOT expire within 6 months of your return date (some destinations are 3 months.)  Many people are turned away at the airport daily for this mistake! 

♦Take a photo of each and make sure it is backed up to iCloud, or pack photocopies in your suitcase (keep them separate from your passports).  *When booking airline tickets, make sure to enter names exactly as they appear on your passports.

♦If Visas are necessary, give yourself plenty of time to complete the process.  *Choose dates with a cushion on either end of your time frame to allow for unforeseen date changes.  Take a photo of each.

♦ Book your trip on a credit card that offers free trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, car rental insurance, and does not charge a foreign transaction fee.  I use the Chase Saphire  Reserve Card.

♦ Get an ATM card that you can use at ANY international bank, without paying any fees.  Charles Schwab has an ATM that reimburses for any foreign bank fees for ATM withdrawals.

♦ Request a letter of proof of car insurance from a credit card company, for a car rental, if necessary.

♦Make sure you have completed any recommended or required vaccines .

♦ Check your medical insurance for coverage abroad and get any necessary medical documents.

♦ Check the carry on bag size on the websites of the specific airlines you are flying. 

♦ Purchase one of the Best Carry On Suitcases for your trip. Click here if you need a new carry on bag

♦ Line up someone to take care of your house, pets, etc.

♦ Get airport club passes or membership.  This makes the wait at airports so much better! Read How to Make Your Time In the Airport Quick, Easy & Fun

Checklist for International Travel 

Closer to your trip.

♦ Read Carry On Travel Packing List   and order any necessities that you don’t have.

♦ Check the weather for where you are traveling to so you can get an idea of the temperature. Pick out clothes that you plan to pack (shop if necessary.)

♦Email to confirm ALL of your reservations for accommodations and include any special requests and arrival times, transfers, tours, etc.

♦ Confirm any car rentals   *Check the pick up location and office hours, and get any special instructions if you will have an after-hours drop off.

♦ Get an international plan on your phones for texting, internet, or phone calls, then record any details about the plan in your notes.

♦ Download the airline apps for movies, check-in, etc.

♦ Get your seats on the plane by looking at the seating map.  Or, if you chose seats when you booked your flights, check to see if better seats have opened up.

♦ Download any necessary travel apps – Click here to read Best Travel Apps

♦Choose and download audiobooks   ( click here for Audible.com ), travel podcasts , walking tours , movies, or shows for your flights.

♦If you are driving to the airport, try to find an airport parking coupon and book online.  Put snacks and water in the car for your return.

♦If you are staying the night at an airport hotel, Click here for the latest prices on airport hotels

♦ Order special meals for your flights, or make a list of food to pack for your flight 

♦ Stop your mail if you don’t have someone picking it up.

♦ Call your credit card company to notify them of countries you are traveling to, so they don’t think your card has been stolen.

Just Before Leaving Home

♦ Print your Packing Checklist pdf   from signing up to be on my email list (scroll up, and enter your name and email in the box on the right margin) and check off items as you pack them

♦ Pack , using The Ultimate Carry On Packing List

♦ Take a photo of your passport .  In case something happens to it, having your passport number and photo will make the challenging situation easier.

♦ Print or take a screenshot of your boarding passes – Make sure that the spelling of all names is correct and matches your passports exactly.  

♦ Print your itinerary , as well as any tickets or vouchers, and put it into a page protector OR use the Google docs app for your itinerary and take screenshots of your other documents

♦If you are using a travel guidebook, Separate the pages by the area  

♦ Pay any bills that will be due while you are gone.

♦ Clean your house (or schedule your house cleaner for just before your return.)

♦ Clean out the refrigerator.

♦ Set your thermostat on hold with the desired temperature.

♦ Unplug everything possible to save energy.

♦ Turn a light on or set a timer for security.

♦♦♦Get all of this done early, so the evening before you leave, you can sit back, relax, and look forward to your trip as a well-prepared worldwide traveler!♦♦♦

Travel Resources

• Save time and money by using the best companies!  For a list of all of my favorite travel-related companies, check out Top Travel Resources
• Book your flight with   Skyscanner or read 8 Ways to Find a Cheap Flight
• Book your accommodations with Booking.com  
• Take carry on bags only! Get my ultimate Carry On Packing List , and learn how and what to pack for your trip!
• Get inspired by 66 Quotes About Travel

Happy Travels!

For more tips on travel, please read:

Detailed itineraries for Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and North Africa

Make the Airport Quick, Easy, and Fun with these Airport Travel Tips

Plan Your Trip! How to Plan Worldwide Travel In 12 Steps

How to Find the Best Places to Stay For the Lowest Price

Get Tips on How To Make Travel Fun For Teens

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Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Planning

Updated On: April 7, 2022

So, you are ready to go on your vacation or travels but what should you do to prepare? We’ve set up the ultimate pre-travel checklist to help you be prepared before you travel. Plus, these travel tips will help you plan for any emergencies or surprises on vacation.

Anything can go wrong. So, we make sure to follow this travel checklist before we go. It makes things go smoothly when we’re ready to travel. 

Table of Contents

Our Pre-Travel Checklist

Wondering what to do before a trip to prepare for international travel? We’ve got you covered.

The time for worry and stress is not meant to happen on vacation. To make your trip more enjoyable, we’ve taken the guess work of planning to make it easy and fun. That’s why we have a system we use on every trip This is the pre trip checklist that we go through for each trip. 

Choosing a Suitcase

Before we start packing we think about what we are going to carry everything in. And that choice starts with where are we going? The destination can make a difference in how we pack and what we pack our things in. 

For Asia, Central or South America

If we are going to Southeast or Central Asia, we usually opt for a backpack as we’ll be hopping on different trains, boats and busses through more rugged terrain and rougher roads. We want to be mobile and have an easy time weaving through crowds. 

For Europe or Australia 

If we are traveling Europe we usually pack a suitcase as we normally travel between cities by train or car and it is easy to use a rolling suitcase on sidewalks in Europe, Australia and US cities. 

For Polar Regions or Remote Lodges

When going somewhere remote, usually pack a rolling duffel bag. When having to get into small planes, we need a suitcase that is soft and easily packed. 

A duffel bag alone is too hard to carry through airports, so we choose a rolling duffel. They are lightweight for small planes and can easily be pushed and packed into cargo area. But we can also stuff our layers into it easily. 

For Caribbean Travel

We can usually get away with carry-on only luggage for the Caribbean. It’s hot and the clothing we pack is lightweight and smaller than when we go to other destinations. Plus, charter flights usually charge more for checked baggage, so we keep it light and save on the fees. 

Pro Tip – Make sure to put something to your luggage to make it easily identifiable. Luggage wraps, colourful handle identifiers that can be velcroed to your handle or some people even tie yarn or ribbons to your luggage. We have been with people who have taken someone else’s luggage all the way to their hotel and didn’t notice it wasn’t theirs. 

Which brings us to another important thing to check on the list.

Before you Leave

When leaving the country, you don’t want people to know you are gone. It’s a good idea to go through these steps to make sure your house is safe before you leave the country.

• stop your mail. If you are going away for awhile, you might want to call the post office and have them hold your mail. Mailboxes fill up fast, so put it on hold, especially if you are going away for a few weeks or months.
• Have a family member stop by every once in a while to check on your house.
• Timers for lights – We have our outdoor lights on timers and when we are traveling, we also put our indoor lights on timers as well to make people think we are home.

Airport Restrictions

Luggage Restrictions

We now always check with our airline to see what luggage is included. There is nothing more frustrating than getting to the airport and finding out we have to pay $79 for extra luggage. (speaking from personal experience here). 

That is why we are now loyal to one airline carrier. Having gold status lets us have two free bags every time we fly. But we know what it’s like to have to cram everything into a carryon when we don’t have to. 

A lot of people are starting to carry drones with them and we never leave home without it. But we do check to make sure that drones are allowed in the country.

We know of people that have had their drones confiscated at the airport. So we always check to see if we can even bring a drone in before we fly. We don’t want to take the chance. 

And we always look up the rules of each destination. Some countries have stricter rules than others, and we follow them. We don’t want to ruin future droning laws by unwittingly breaking the law. 

It’s easy to look up, so we always check it out. Read our Airport Security Tips and Common Travel Mistakes for more details.

Pre Trip Checklist – Documents

• Call our Bank. We call our bank to make sure they know where we’re going so our credit cards and atm card works at the machine. Recently we didn’t do this when flying to Cuba and my card was frozen after using the ATM. It was an added stress to our travels that we didn’t need. 
• Bank Fees – Ask your bank about foreign transaction fees on your credit card, and see what insurance your card has included.
• Check for immunizations. New diseases are breaking out and we know people that have been very sick from things like Malaria. It’s worth popping into a travel clinic to talk to a professional to see what we need if it is a new destination. 
• Check for Visas. The more we travel, the worse we have been at this. We have come close to not getting into a country because we assume we are fine and don’t need a visa. When flying into Istanbul a couple of years ago, we didn’t check for Visas and saw that we needed to buy a Visa on arrival.  We didn’t have any cash on us, and the ATM was out of money, so we had to be escorted through the airport to the other side to get cash. (they didn’t take credit card) We were lucky they were nice, or we could have been refused at the border and sent home. 
• Passport – Make sure your passport is not expired or about to expire. Many countries require passports to be valid for six months. So even if it is valid, you may be denied entry even if you have a few weeks or a couple of months left until it expires.
• Backup Copies – Make copies of your travel documents, driver s license and passport. It’s good to have electronic copies, but it is also good leave copies with a friend or family member.
• Boarding Passes – load your boarding passes on your phone for faster check-in and check in in advance. In 2021 especially it is good to have everything saved electronically.

Travel Checklist – Safety Tips

Travel Warnings

Before we choose our destination, we take a look at things like weather and warnings. There is no sense going to the Maldives if it is monsoon season or the Caribbean if it is hurricane season. We then check warnings to see if there are any areas we should avoid. 

We have gone to countries where there have been travel warnings. For example, there have been warnings in Mexico when we were traveling in Cancun. But Mexico is a big country . If there is a warning for Chiapas and we are going to Cancun, we are far enough away, that we don’t need to worry. So check to see if there are warnings near where you are going or if they are thousands of miles away.

Travel Insurance

Be sure to buy travel insurance is all in order and up to date. Our travel insurance renews yearly, but we make sure we have the emergency numbers on hand. We always check to make sure it covers everything we need. 

We never leave home without travel insurance. Travel is expensive and it wouldn’t make sense for us to spend a lot of money on a trip, and lose it all if an emergency should happen like :

• If we have to delay our trip because of an emergency
• Or we had to cancel our trip and could never take it. 
• Something happened and we had to return from our trip early. 
• We were injured or became severely ill during the trip

Or what if we were playing volleyball on the beach and knocked out a tooth? We can be reimbursed for our travels if we make a claim for a covered reason. 

That takes me to.

Knowing what Your Travel Insurance policy covers

Simply purchasing travel insurance isn’t enough. You need to double check what is included and covered. We always call and speak to a licensed agent to learn which plan would best suit our needs during our travels and to make sure we fully understand what is and isn’t covered by our policy.

Dave and I are big fans of calling when in doubt. That way we know ahead of time what we can do on vacation and what we’ll end up doing at our own risk. 

Travel Apps and Technology

We all want to get away from technology when traveling, but it’s a fact, it’s the way of the world. While it is nice to be disconnected,  a lot of travel relies on technology. Travel apps can play a large part in saving money and in planning.

Apps like TripIt will help you stay organized and alert you of any last minute changes of flights, XE Currency Converter will help you with prices in your destination and Google Translate helps with communications. We have an entire list of apps for travel that you should have on your phone .

When we travel, we now only use RFID blocking bags and wallets to keep cybercriminals from stealing our identity. The latest scam is using wireless transmitters to gain information about your credit and debit card identification chips. Se eour The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories . 

At the Airport

Flying can be the most stressful part of travel, so we always work to make it comfortable and fun. 

Lounge Access

If we don’t have status on a specific airline and don’t have lounge access, we have a Priority Pass to get into a lounge before flying. Being in a lounge before a flight is a wonderful thing. It let our vacation begin at the airport rather than at the destination. 

We can enjoy peace and quiet, food and a glass of wine. When flying out of Toronto, our Platinum American Express Card gives us access to the American Express lounge and we get a fast track to security. For people looking to gain lounge access, we suggest looking into your home airport to see what credit card lounges they have.

If you plan on flying more than once or twice in a year, we really love Priority Pass. A lot of times their lounges are nicer than the airline lounges. 

On the Plane

If we can’t manage to get an upgrade to business class. (we often try because we fly a lot and have gold status, so we use e-credits with each flight) we still try to make flying coach as comfortable as possible. 

We both pack care packages with essentials in our carryon.

Pre Travel Checklist – What’s in my Carry on

• Noise cancelling headphones – this makes all the difference if we have a crying baby or loud talker around us. 
• Eye Mask – It’s nearly impossible to get to sleep on a plane, but an eye mask really blocks out the sun (if we are sitting near someone that refuses to put their shade down) and the florescent lighting that is on the plane. 
• Scarf or sweater – it seams that planes are always either too hot or too cold, so I always pack a big pashmina scarf to wrap myself up in on the flight. Dave uses a lightweight merino wool sweater
• Socks – When flying to a warm destination I usually board a flight in sandals or shoes that require no socks. But when flying, nobody wants to look at bare feet, and my feet usually freeze on the plane anyway. So I pack a pair of socks that I can put on for the flight. 
• Foldable water bottle – The cost of bottled water in an airport is highway robbery, so we carry a foldable water bottle through security and then fill it up when we get across. 
• Lip balm, moisturizer and nasal spray – Airplanes are very dry and we have all the gadgets to keep us hydrated in our care package. 
• Sunglasses – We always have our sunglasses handy. Whenever I wake up, my eyes are dry and sore and sunglasses help ease the glare of the cabin. 
• Load Up Your phone or iPad – We have large phones, so we load up movies or TV series on our phones. We never rely on the airlines entertainment system. They often don’t work (we’ve had it happen on more than one occasion) and we’ve often seen everything they have in their choices. 
• Portable USB charger – Sure, many airlines say they have chargers, but many times they don’t work. We keep a portable charger handy at all times. 

Travel Packing List

We could go share a complete travel packing list, but we find every one is different. Some people will never travel with checked luggage, while others would never dream of going carry on only.

Some people like to have a different wardrobe with shoes to match each day, while others (like us) prefer to mix and match.

We do have a travel packing list that you can check out here . 

But we do have items in our suitcase that we never leave home without no matter what type of trip we are going on. Be it a winter trip, a beach holiday or an expedition, these items are always in our travel bag. 

• Dry bags – When taking a boat trip or even going to the beach, we put all our electronics and cameras into a dry bag. 
• Headlamps – Great in the backcountry and on adventure trips. But we also use headlamps a lot when taking photos at night.
• Packing Cubes – We put everything into separate nylon cubes and compression cubes for bulky items.
• Toiletry Bag – The Pacsafe foldable toiletry bag hangs for ease in hotel bathrooms and has different compartments for all our needs.
• Packing Envelope – Dave never leaves home without it. He folds all his collared shirts and pants into an envelope keeping them from wrinkling and taking up less space.  
• Steripen – We never worry about bottled water because we use a Steripen to purify our water no matter where we are.
• Belkin Mni Surge Protector – It has three outlets and 2 USB chargers. Plus a surge protector to keep our electronics safe. 
• World Plug Adapter – The world plug adapter is compact and covers everywhere in the world. There’s a USB charger as well.
• Mesh Laundry Bag – great for letting laundry air out so it doesn’t smell, but still keeps it separate from our clothes. 
• Tweezers, nail clippers, scissors –  this accessory kit has come in handy more times than you’d think.
• Waterproof/Windproof Jacket – for cold weather we layer warm wool and fleece underneath, for warm weather we use it in the rain, early mornings or when climbing up to higher altitudes. 
• Pegless Clothesline & Universal Sink Stopper – For quick washing and drying of items like bathing suits and underwear. 
• Hiking Shoes – We love the outdoors so you never know when we’ll be going on a good hike! 
• Water shoes – We have a light pair of watershoes that we use in tropical climates and a heavier pair that we use in mountains and northern travel. (we switch them out depending on the trip)
• Flipflops – great for going to the pool or beach.
• Packable Daypack – folds up small and can be Brough out when going on a day hike. 
• Goo Toobs – Puts all our lotions and liquids into small containers that are airline friendly. 
• Our Own Canvas Bag – Instead of using plastic bags and local markets, we bring our own.

First Aid Kit

We used to carry a really big first aid kit, but we have found that we can easily buy most of what we need. But we still do carry a basic first aid kit. 

Things we include in our First Aid Kit are:

• Prescription Medication – with a photocopy of our prescriptions
• Insect repellent 
• Gravol – for nausea  
• Benadryl and Claritin – For allergic reactions
• Allergy Eyedrops
• Imodium – for mild diarrhea
• Rehydration tablets and electrolyte tables – in case of dehydration or severe diarrhea.
• Topical Ointment like Polysporin or prescription Fucidin Cream – For cuts and scrapes
• Antisceptic spray – it’s important to clean cuts quickly, especially in tropical climates. 
• Moleskin – I recently bought shoes I loved for China. They were sketchers and comfortable at home, but they gave me serious blisters after walking for a day in Shanghai. I needed moleskin for the rest of my trip!
• Read our full Packing a Travel First Aid Kit For Long Term Travel

You may want to look at see what vaccines you need for places you are traveling to.

We suggest going to a travel clinic to discuss with a doctor what medications and vaccines we need. It varies from country to country. But you may want to look into Hepatitis A & B, Measles, Yellow Fever, Japanese Encephalitis and Influenza.

Also, don’t forget about Rabies – Rabies shots do not prevent rabies but slow the spread of the infection giving you time to get to the hospital

And that is our complete pre travel checklist to help you pack smarter. And now you are ready to go! So what are you waiting for, grab your passport and happy travels! Remember, planning for travel will give you peace of mind to create a stress-free vacation.

Share this pre travel checklist to Pinterest to save for future planning

• How We Choose Travel Insurance to Best Suit our Needs
• How to Have a Safe and Healthy Vacation
• How to Overcome Your Travel Anxiety and Fears

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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20 thoughts on “Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist”

Thank you so much for this amazing information 🙂 🙂

Thank you so much for this amazing information. 🙂

Thank you…

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thanks for sharing checklist,its useful for travelers.

thanks for your checklist,its full of informative,helpful for travelers.

special thanks for sharing this post. you don’t know how much you have helped me. thanks again

Thanks for sharing the post,its useful and informative.

It’s amazing to read… really very helpful post

Great list. You have mentioned all necessary items very clearly and it is very useful. Thanks for sharing.

This is really the best post I have came across and very helpful. In fact, I am going to travel in the next month and just before I found this post and see that I forgot many items.

Once again very informative and useful.

Thanks for writing.

That’s alot of meds you have in that bag.

This is such a great list! I usually pack some snacks and chewing gum as well. Lately, I have been using compression socks for long-haul flights and I will bring them in my carry-on as well.

It is a great website. The design looks very good. I will bookmark this page. I enjoyed the information. Regard Swan Tours

This is amazing….loved the way you mentioned every necessary stuff.

This is probably my dream checklist. You guys have mentioned everything one could ever need. Thank you, Dave and Deb.

That’s quite a comprehensive list. I travel frequently and always wished to have a to-do list of items. Most often than not we tend to forget some items or important procedure. Thank you for sharing the list. It is quite useful.

Around the World Travel Planning Checklist and Timeline

Manage your Around the World Travel planning process with a good trip planning checklist. Use our solid timeline to outline when to do what before you leave.

Use AirTreks’ Official Around the World Travel Planning Checklist and Timeline to organize your trip to-do list from a year out all the way up until the day you depart. We don’t mean to brag, but it’s one of the best free resources for planning a complex, multi-city trip you’re likely to find.

Download a PDF copy of the trip planning checklist

1 year – 6 months before you go:

• It’s still too early to be purchasing RTW tickets, so use this time to decide on your top destinations , outline your itinerary and set budgets – in other words, dream.
• Make a destination list , ranked by importance, interest, and convenience.
• Use TripPlanner to price out different around the world itineraries and get a feel for what each one costs based on what matters to you most: price, trip length, destinations and/or route.
• Research, then prioritize your country and city list. Decide which to include or omit.
• Use seasonality and resources like TimeOut and official tourism website’s calendar of events to get an idea of when you want to be in different locations.
• Dig a little deeper – not all of the best info is reachable through Google. Check blogrolls from your favorite travel blogs for interesting links and read them. Some of the best info can be found on smaller travel blogs .
• Start planning your budget . Set a price goal and then add 25% to it, just in case (everyone needs a little wiggle room on the road).
• Research the sale of your home to see if that’s a good fit for you.

Simple and Flexible Around the World Tickets Get instant pricing on your route now.

6 months – 4 months out:.

• Time to get the ball rolling! Select a route on TripPlanner and follow the prompts to submit it to one of our agents .
• Wait for the callback or email from one of our consultants (within one business day), or  call us .
• Take as much time as you need when working with a travel consultant to get the trip you want. Ask lots of questions. Our consultants will give cost differentials for whatever tweaks you have in mind.
• Apply for a passport or make sure the one you have will be valid at least 6 months beyond your last travel date. If not, renew. It’s best to do passport stuff early.
• Research necessary visas  (visa rules and length of stay limitations often dictate travel dates).
• Decide on your trip dates.
• Take the plunge – buy your round-the-world air tickets! (Don’t forget insurance .)

4 months – 3 months before departure:

• Set up the other facets of the trip: where you’re staying, what you’ll be doing. Arrange accommodations, tours, events, activities, etc.
• Tell your family and friends you’ll be out of town and give them your dates of travel and any information they’ll need to reach you on the road.
• Start the application process for visas and work permits.
• Create a day-by-day itinerary – it doesn’t have to be too detailed but if you have specific places or sites you want to see, pencil them in between flights.
• Buy or download guidebooks or destination apps to take with you.
• Begin to organize your life for an extended leave of absence, i.e., figure out what to do with your house/apt, bills, car, mail, pets, etc.
• Set up frequent flyer accounts.
• Acquire no fee international credit cards. (Or make sure yours can be used internationally. Pro tip: Make sure you have a 4-digit pin, even if you prefer to sign)
• Request a spare debit card from your bank(in case you lose one).
• Contact friends in faraway places to let them know you’re coming.
• Get an email account (Yahoo or Gmail are free) that’s not linked to work or school if you don’t have one already and notify your contacts you’re switching.
• Organize your address book. Fill out any missing contact info (phone numbers, addresses, and emails you don’t have). Don’t forget to add our customer service email to your list!
• Read our 101 Things To Do Before Your Trip blog post.

3 months – 1 month:

• Take advantage of this time period to hone your travel skills. Take local trips, be a tourist in your hometown or simply take a planning break. Maybe watch  movies about far off places or listen to some world music .
• Purchase any needed supplies, gear, and clothing (backpacks/luggage, electronics, SD-cards, travel-wear, soap, personal ID, long white scarf, etc.) If you buy something technical, like a camera, familiarize yourself with it by taking it for test runs.
• Request your sabbatical or hand in your work resignation (gulp!).
• Set up a travel blog.
• Read an  inspirational book .
• Get your student i.d. card if applicable.
• Get an international driver’s license if applicable.
• Acquire extra passport photos.
• Arrange for someone to rent or sublet your place (since you’ll be on the road, a property management company may be the best choice for managing this).
• Set up online bill-pay.
• Get your cell phone unlocked so you can switch out sim cards in different locations. Trust us, buying a local pay-as-you-go sim card in each location is much cheaper than paying international roaming charges.
• Plan dinner dates with family and friends you won’t see for awhile.

1 month – 2 weeks:

• Finalize accommodations, especially for your first couple of nights away ( but don’t commit to staying long-term in a place you haven’t seen in person ).
• Get your travel vaccinations and immunization records and leave a copy with someone you trust, or scan a copy and save it to your cloud.

2 weeks – 1 week:

• Carefully read over your itinerary/reservations and make sure everything is ready to go.
• Visualize yourself in each destination from day to day. This will help prepare you mentally and emotionally for the experience and also remind you of things you need to pack for each stop on your route.
• Copy and/or scan important documents. Keep originals on your person, and a hard copy elsewhere in your bags. You can also leave copies with someone you trust or upload them to your cloud so you can access them online without anyone else’s help.

Final week:

• Pull out our packing checklist  or, if you want to travel light, never fear–turns out a backpack may be just enough baggage for your round-the-world trip . Use these pieces to pick up the items you’re sure you can’t live without, and discard the rest. When it comes to luggage, less is usually more.
• Call your bank to let them know where you’ll be traveling — banks often freeze accounts when international charges appear out of the blue.
• Forward your mail to someone you trust, or stop it altogether.
• Reconfirm your first flight! (It’s best to do this before every flight.)
• Jot down a to-do list for the night before your departure.
• Set up an out-of-town message on your email to let people know about response delays.
• Start packing! Grab everything you’re taking with you and  take inventory . Keep that list with you throughout your trip so you can keep track along the way. This will help keep your baggage within airline weight and size limits and also let you know right away if you’ve lost something.
• Get cash/travelers checks and some local currency from your first destination .
• Do laundry.
• Don’t forget to breathe! Try to get plenty of sleep. Anxiety overload can keep you from accurately gauging what’s left to do.

Day before departure:

• Finish packing. Checklist in hand, load up that luggage . Don’t forget to weigh and measure your bags and check Luggage Limits.
• Make any last minute phone calls.
• Hug your family, friends, and pets.
• Charge your phone/camera/laptop/music player.
• Look forward to the future .
• Celebrate! But don’t forget that hangovers can make jet lag worse .

Day of departure:

• Eat well and drink lots of water.  A good meal before your flight will give you the energy to stay awake, but staying hydrated is even more important.  Skip the alcohol–it dehydrates you and worsens jet lag, which can be debilitating upon arrival in a new country. You’ll need your all your faculties, so be prepared!

After departure:

• Reconfirm your flights two to three days before each flight (see above).
• Take lots of pictures.
• Keep in touch with family and friends via phone, email, skype, or your blog.
• Enjoy your trip! You’ve earned it.

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The Ultimate Europe Summer Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

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Overpacking is the quickest way to start your European trip off on the wrong foot. Charming cobblestone streets, boutique hotels without elevators, and packed public transportation mean you don’t want to be hauling around an oversized suitcase. 

A streamlined European packing list is essential—you want to look good in all your photos in front of famous sites, blend in with local fashion, and be comfortable for miles of walking every day. 

We’ve put together the ultimate European summer packing list for smarter travelers to follow—you’ll be comfortable, stylish, and mobile (without that giant checked bag).

Summer weather in Europe can be fickle, so packing a good pair of jeans is always smart in case the temperatures drop in the evening. Mott & Bow’s Slim Boyfriend Jeans are made from a soft, lightweight twill denim fabric that’s lighter and more comfortable than regular denim. 

The white jeans help keep your outfit looking summery, and by some miracle, Mott & Bow’s jeans aren’t see-through like most white pants. 

Light Shirt/Scarf

If you’re visiting any religious/historical sites in Europe, you may be asked to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Keep a lightweight scarf with you so you can comply on an impromptu visit without overheating during the rest of the day.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Dresses are the most versatile piece of clothing you can pack for your European trip, as they can be worn with sneakers during the day or made fancier at night with heels. For hot summers, you can’t beat linen— Quince’s 100 percent European Linen Button Front Dress was practically designed for European trips.

Made from breathable and heat-regulating linen, the dress will keep you cool. The removable belt and functional buttons give you multiple looks with just one piece of clothing and best of all, the dress features pockets. 

Cozy Earth’s Coastal Comfort Mock Neck Short Sleeve Button Down is the perfect mix of casual and pulled-together. Made from a blend of tencel and linen, this top is ultra-breathable and feels significantly cooler than cotton. 

The fabric uses an enhanced weave that helps prevent pilling, so this shirt will still look brand-new after many trips.

Since they take up such minimal space, you’ll never regret packing a swimsuit . There are so many beaches, lakes, and even hotel pools to explore in Europe, you won’t want to miss any opportunity for a dip. 

If you tend to burn easily, and don’t want to be bothered frequently getting out of the water to reapply, the Eddie Bauer Long-Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit swimsuit is a great option—the floral print and zipper keep it cute, while the extra coverage gives you plenty of sun protection. 

The Best Swimsuits for Any Type of Vacation

Lightweight Pants

A lightweight pair of pants can protect you from the sun, keep you covered for historical church visits, and help you look like a local (if you choose the right ones). Ditch the heavy denim in favor of something with a bit more stretch, like Mott & Bow’s Twill Chinos

These pants have just the right of flexibility but are structured enough that they won’t get baggy halfway through your trip. The khaki color is perfect for summer, and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans for the day. 

Accessories

Crossbody Purse

The perfect purse for Europe can be worn crossbody style (which makes it harder to steal), goes with any outfit, is versatile, and is big enough to hold the essentials (but not too large, since you’ll be carrying it all day).

Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Wallet Crossbody ticks all the boxes. Made from soft Italian leather, the purse will be right at home in Europe, and the quilted design works well from day to night. The bag can be worn as a crossbody, or you can remove the chain to use it as a clutch. 

Coin purses have fallen out of fashion in the US, but they can come in handy in Europe, where lower denominations of currency are in coins instead of bills. Don’t end up with a heavy stash of coins buried in your bag—keep your change organized and accessible in a zippered pouch . 

The 24 Best RFID Wallets to Protect You Identity

Keep the sun off of your face and your outfit looking stylish with a sun hat. These packable options from Madewell are perfect, since they can be stuffed in your bag (without getting destroyed) when you’re not wearing them. 

Refillable Water Bottle

Although tap water is safe to drink in Europe, it’s not commonly offered for free at restaurants (you’ll likely have a choice of bottled still or sparkling water instead). However, in some destinations, you may find public drinking fountains readily available. Save money (and the environment) by packing your own reusable water bottle, like this one from LARQ , which automatically cleans itself using UV technology. 

The LARQ bottle comes in both an insulated and non-insulated version, so you can choose between having a light weight to carry or having perfectly chilled beverages all day long. 

Pack a pair of sandals you can wear to the beach, hotel pool, and for short walks. Ipanema’s Trendy Sandals feature a minimalist style that will blend in anywhere. The lightweight sandals are made from PVC so they can be easily rinsed off after every wear.

You’ll spot chunky white sneakers on the feet of many stylish Europeans this summer. Join the crowd with New Balance’s classic 550 sneakers . The low top and clean silhouette go with everything from jeans to dresses, and there’s plenty of arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable. 

The 8 Best White Sneakers for Travel

Pack no-show socks that will actually stay up if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. These ones from Bombas have grips on the heel that help to keep them in place. 

Toiletries/Miscellaneous 

In addition to the same toiletries you’d pack for any destination (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) here are some important ones to remember for Europe:

Even if you’re not hitting the beach in Europe, sunscreen is still a must-pack for summer trips. Sun Bum smells good and doesn’t leave a white cast, so you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

A travel-sized pack of tissues can come in handy for more than just the sniffles (like at a public bathroom that’s run out of toilet paper.)

Medications

In some European destinations, you’ll have to visit an actual pharmacy to purchase even over-the-counter medications, and these pharmacies tend to have somewhat limited hours. 

Pack sample-size packets of medicines just in case, so you don’t have to waste time hunting down a pharmacy if you have a headache or stomachache. 

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleeping Pills for Long-Haul Flights

Electronics

Don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones for the long flight over from the United States. Skullcandy’s Push Active Earbuds are wireless but still secure (in case you plan on working out while you’re on vacation).

The earbuds are voice-controlled, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to change songs or take a phone call. 

Appliances in Europe run on 220 volts, while ones in America use 110 volts. Fortunately, most modern appliances (like iPhones) automatically switch voltage, so you won’t need to worry about bringing an electricity converter (but double-check your electronics before trying to use them abroad). 

However, you will need to pack an adapter in order to use standard plugs in Europe. 

Portable Charger

It’s easy to run down the battery on your phone when you’re snapping pictures and taking video to capture all the memories—and constantly using maps to figure out directions. A portable charger can revive your battery without you having to go back to the hotel or find a place to plug it in.

Biolite Charge Series Portable Charger Review

Travel Documents

As with any trip, don’t forget these important travel documents:

• Copies of passport (you can scan them to your phone or the cloud instead of carrying paper)

Although most places in Europe accept credit cards, you’re still likely to find a few cash-only destinations, so make sure you bring some cash with you.

When you are using a credit card, make sure you’re choosing one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee , as those can quickly add up.

Download Our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Europe

When its time to start packing, download our editable checklist here .

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These Are The 7 Smartest Cities In The World

These are the smartest cities in the world, according to data from the IMD Smart City Index 2024.

• Smart cities integrate various aspects like transportation, energy, healthcare, and governance to create efficient urban environments.
• Lausanne, Copenhagen, Singapore, Geneva, Canberra, Oslo, and Zurich are top-rated cities with impressive smart initiatives.
• From eco-friendly transportation to innovative energy solutions, these cities are leading the way in sustainable urban development.

Ever wondered how the high-tech metropolis of Tokyo , the intricate underground of London, and Singapore's innovations work so seamlessly in urban environments? That's all thanks to Smart City Initiatives across the globe.

At its core, a smart city comprises interconnected systems and infrastructure, including transportation, energy, healthcare, education, communication, and governance, all integrated through digital platforms. These components work together to optimize resource usage, improve service delivery, foster innovation, and create a more responsive and resilient urban environment.

Across the world, there have been some extraordinary technological developments, from beautiful streets backed by eye-tracking tech to hi-tech hotels that make you think you're in the future to museums with fully interactive tech .

9 Smart Cities Everyone Should Add To Their Bucket List (And What To Do When You Get There)

7 lausanne, switzerland, smart city rank 2024: 7.

The LUDP, developed by the city of Lausanne, provides a comprehensive platform for collecting, analyzing, and sharing urban data. It integrates various data sources to improve city services, making Lausanne a globally-recognized, efficient smart city in Switzerland.

• Smart City Rating 2024: AA
• Smart City Structure 2024: AA
• Smart City Technology 2024: A

When visiting Lausanne, note that the city is predominantly eco-friendly, opting for electric scooters and bikes as a main form of transport.

6 Copenhagen, Denmark

Smart city rank 2024: 6.

Copenhagen has implemented smart lighting systems that adjust brightness based on pedestrian and traffic activity, improving energy efficiency and safety in public spaces. Additionally, the city has undertaken climate adaptation measures, such as green roofs and permeable pavements, to mitigate the impact of climate change and enhance urban resilience.

5 Singapore

Smart city rank 2024: 5.

Launched in 2014, Singapore's Smart Nation Initiative aims to harness technology and data to improve the quality of life for citizens, enhance economic competitiveness, and address urban challenges. The initiative encompasses various projects and collaborations across sectors such as healthcare, transportation, housing, and education.

• Smart City Rating 2024: A
• Smart City Structure 2024: A

10 Things To Do In Singapore City: Complete Guide To The Vibrant Lion City

4 geneva, switzerland, smart city rank 2024: 4.

Geneva has implemented smart grid technologies to optimize energy distribution, monitor consumption, and integrate renewable energy sources into the city's power grid. These initiatives improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the resilience of the energy infrastructure.

• Smart City Rating 2024: AAA
• Smart City Structure 2024: AAA
• Smart City Technology 2024: AA

Geneva Digital is a public-private partnership that aims to transform Geneva into a leading digital and smart city. It focuses on initiatives related to digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and smart city solutions, collaborating with local stakeholders to drive economic growth and social development.

3 Canberra, Australia

Smart city rank 2024: 3.

Canberra's ACT government has made significant investments in renewable energy and sustainability initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance environmental resilience. This includes the development of solar energy projects, energy-efficient building standards, and programs to promote recycling and waste reduction.

2 Oslo, Norway

Smart city rank 2024: 2.

Oslo has set ambitious goals to become a fossil fuel-free city by 2030. FutureBuilt is a collaborative program involving Oslo and several surrounding municipalities aimed at developing sustainable urban areas. It focuses on projects that prioritize energy efficiency, carbon neutrality, and innovative architectural design, serving as a model for sustainable urban development.

1 Zurich, Switzerland

Smart city rank 2024: 1.

Zurich has developed a comprehensive Smart City Strategy outlining its vision and objectives for sustainable urban development. The strategy focuses on areas such as energy efficiency, transportation, digitalization, and citizen engagement, guiding the city's smart city initiatives and projects. This includes investments in energy-efficient buildings, district heating systems, and the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and hydro-power.

The Zurich Innovation Park is a hub for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, focusing on areas such as smart technologies, mobility solutions, and sustainable urban development.

• International

Trump's hush money trial

Russia's war in Ukraine

Israel-Hamas war

The latest on the massive solar storm

By Angela Fritz, Elise Hammond and Chris Lau, CNN

Incredible lighthouse picture from Maine

From CNN's Chris Lau

Among a flurry of surreal images capturing the dazzling auroras is one taken by Benjamin Williamson of a lighthouse in Portland, Maine.

"It's one of the most incredible things I've ever seen, the awe and wonder," Williamson told CNN.

He said he used a long-exposure technique to snap the shot, but did not edit it.

Watch the full interview with Williamson here .

Things could be about to ramp up

If you still haven't seen the aurora, hold on for another 30 minutes to an hour, according to CNN meteorologist Chad Myers.

The next wave of coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which cause the aurora, is about to arrive, he said.

"Just wait a minute because things are going to start to ramp up here," he said, adding that the increase could arrive "anytime now." "When it comes, get outside, get ready, put your coat on."

For those who are too busy to witness the phenomenon tonight, Myers said the aurora is expected to last three nights.

Why does the aurora last for a weekend?

By CNN's Chris Lau

Generally, it takes just eight minutes for light to travel 93 million miles to the Earth from the sun, but astrophysicist Janna Levin said the energized particles causing the current wave of aurora travel a lot slower, causing the phenomenon to last for the weekend.

"Some of these mass ejections are trillions of kilograms," she said. "They're slower. So they're taking longer, but still hours, maybe tens of hours."

Here's how the solar storm looks in the South and on the East Coast

The aurora was visible across the East Coast and in the South Friday.

Here's how it looked in Chester, South Carolina.

Down in Florida, waves of color swam through the sky.

Up north in New Jersey, a purple-ish haze could be seen in the sky.

Will solar storms get more intense and risky in the future?

The answer is probably not in the short term, according to astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi.

He said scientists study what is constantly happening on the surface of the sun and have found a pattern.

“Geological data shows us that in the past the sun was way more active than it is today. It has cycles where it goes very quiet ... and you have events that show that the solar activity was much, much greater,” he told CNN. “So there's no evidence that we're going to see those big maxima this cycle." 

But the astrophysicist also spoke of a caveat - the limitations of modern science.

“Even though it's predictable in the short term, we still don't quite understand what creates the magnetic fields in the sun,” he said, adding: “That's why NASA has so many satellites looking at the sun.”

In Pictures: Auroras light the sky during rare solar storm

From CNN Digital's Photo Team

A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun are creating dazzling auroras across the globe .

The rare solar storm may also disrupt communications. The last time a solar storm of this magnitude reached Earth was in October 2003, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center.

See more photos of the aurora from tonight.

Behind dazzling aurora could lie “real danger,” Bill Nye the Science Guy says

The massive solar storm could present “a real danger,” especially with the modern world relying so much on electricity, according to Bill Nye the Science Guy , a science educator and engineer.

Scientists are warning an increase in solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to disrupt communication on Earth into the weekend. Solar flares can affect communications and GPS almost immediately because they disrupt Earth’s ionosphere, or part of the upper atmosphere. Energetic particles released by the sun can also disrupt electronics on spacecraft and affect astronauts without proper protection within 20 minutes to several hours.

In comparison to tonight's event, Nye drew comparisons with another incident in 1859, known as the Carrington Event, when telegraph communications were severely affected.

“The other thing, everybody, that is a real danger to our technological society, different from 1859, is how much we depend on electricity and our electronics and so on,” Nye said. "None of us really in the developed world could go very long without electricity."

He noted that there are systems in place to minimize the impact, but “stuff might go wrong,” stressing that not all transformers are equipped to withstand such a solar event.

“It depends on the strength of the event and it depends on how much of our infrastructures are prepared for this the sort of thing,” he said.

Bill Nye breaks down significance of the solar storm | CNN

This post has been updated with more details on solar flares' impact on electronics.

Here's where clouds will block the view of the northern lights in the US

From CNN's Angela Fritz

After an incredibly stormy week, most of the Lower 48 has clear skies to see the northern lights. But there are some areas where clouds and rainy weather are spoiling the view.

A deck of clouds is blocking the sky in the Northeast, from parts of Virginia into Maine, as an area of low pressure spins off the East Coast.

In the Midwest, the aurora will be hard to see through thick clouds in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan — including the Upper Peninsula — and Illinois.

A stripe of clouds is tracking across Texas, including Dallas-Forth Worth, and into Louisiana.

And in the Southwest, patchy clouds across the the Four Corners region could make the northern lights difficult to spot.

Aurora seen at least as far south as Georgia

Barely visible to the naked eye, the aurora can be seen in Atlanta in the 10 p.m. ET hour. 

It is easier to see through photographs using a long exposure. The photos below, taken by CNN's Eric Zerkel and Emily Smith, used 3- and 10-second exposures.

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This Irish spot was voted among 2024’s top European city breaks

Dublin secured its spot as the second most popular city break location in europe, with 64,000 google searches per month..

Dublin ranked number two on Holidu's list of 10 Most Popular European City Breaks for 2024.

Whether you want to indulge in the finest Italian cuisine in Rome, stroll the chic boulevards of Paris, or enjoy Irish trad music in a pub, there’s a European city for every traveler. 

To help you decide where to go, the travel experts at holiday rental booking portal Holidu  put together a list of the must-visit European cities for 2024.

Looking at the 300 most populous cities in Europe, researchers analyzed Google searches from the past 12 months to reveal the cities people are most eager to visit. 

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Dublin, the capital city of the Republic of Ireland, secured its spot as the second most popular city break location in Europe, with 64,000 searches per month.

Holidu suggests travelers stop at the ever popular Guinness Storehouse , the brewery experience that tells the tale of Ireland's world-loved beer, complete with tastings and a rooftop bar. 

Amsterdam, in The Netherlands, with its coffee shops, vintage flea markets and canal cruises, was named the most desired city break destination for 2024. The Dutch capital had 91,200 searches per month.

Paris, France took third place on the list, followed by Barcelona, Spain, in fourth place. Rome, Italy, rounded out the top five.

Check out the top 10 European city breaks below:

• Amsterdam, The Netherlands - 91,200 searches per month
• Dublin, Ireland - 64,000 searches per month
• Paris, France - 61,000 searches per month
• Barcelona, Spain - 54,800 searches per month
• Rome, Italy - 41,400 searches per month
• Malaga, Spain - 33,960 searches per month
• Prague, Czech Republic - 30,320 searches per month
• Budapest, Hungary - 30,190 searches per month
• Lisbon, Portugal - 27,900 searches per month
• Berlin, Germany - 25,500 searches per month

To view the ranking of the top 20 most popular European cities for 2024, click here . 

Are you planning a vacation in Ireland? Looking for advice or want to share some great memories? Join our Irish travel Facebook group.

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Asheville ranks high on list of best flower festivals in the world

ASHEVILLE - One of the best places to stop and smell the flowers is in Asheville, according to international travel agency, Planet Cruise.

Biltmore Blooms, a flower festival at Biltmore Estate, ranked No. 8 worldwide, based on search volume, social media mentions and sentiment, number of observed flower species at peak month, and the average daily sun hours and monthly rainfall.

The No. 1 ranked flower festival is the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam in The Netherlands, which has 85 locations of colorful tulips across the city including in public gardens and museums.

Biltmore Blooms received the most positive social media sentiment score at 91%. in Planet Cruise's research study. There were 590 searches and 6,840 social mentions reported for the flower festival.

In May, the peak month for blooms, 908 flower species were observed, and an average of 9.3 sun hours daily and 93 millimeters of rainfall monthly was measured, according to Planet Cruise.

This season, Biltmore Estate’s “Spring at Biltmore” features thousands of flowers including daffodils and tulips, and orange, purple, yellow, red and white bulbs are in the Walled Garden.

According to the estate, its founder George Vanderbilt was “fond of tulips as they paid tribute to his Dutch heritage.”

Biltmore’s gardens shift and change daily but guests may check Biltmore Director of Horticulture Bill Quade's weekly bloom report , updated on the estate's website.

Inside Biltmore House, the estate’s floral team has created floral décor in the theme of “Spring Romance” and recreated a large wedding bell and floral bouquet display in the Tapestry Gallery as a tribute to the 100th anniversary of the springtime wedding of Cornelia Vanderbilt ― daughter of Biltmore’s founders George and Edith Vanderbilt ― and John F.A. Cecil in April 1924. According to Biltmore, the design is based on the room’s 1924 decor for the couple’s wedding breakfast.

On April 15, Biltmore House tours will offer a new self-guided audio tour with new stories about the Vanderbilt family, recorded in English with versions in Spanish, French, German and Mandarin Chinese available later this spring.

Guests may request an American Sign Language and descriptive audio tour for the visually impaired.

In March, Biltmore premiered its new special art exhibition, “Chihuly at Biltmore,” featuring artworks by globally renowned artist Dale Chihuly, open through Jan. 5 at Amherst at Deerpark on the estate.

For details about admission tickets, events, and overnight stays, visit Biltmore.com or call 877-BILTMORE.

Planet Cruise’s Best Places in the World to See the Flowers Bloom in 2024:

• Tulip Festival, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
• Calla Lily Festival, Yangmingshan National Park, Taipei, Taiwan.
• National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington, D.C.
• Girona Flower Festival, Girona, Spain.
• Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa, Canada.
• Floralia Brussels, Brussels, Belgium.
• The Gardens of Versailles, Versailles, France.
• Biltmore Blooms, Asheville.
• Springhill, Derry, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
• Infiorata Flower Carpet Festival, Noto, Italy.

See the full list at planetcruise.com .

Stories you may have missed:

• 'Chihuly at Biltmore' art exhibit opens with glass chandeliers, more at historic estate
• Handle with care: Dale Chihuly artist team moves new exhibit onto Biltmore Estate
• Asheville Orchid Festival will feature thousands of blooms at NC Arboretum
• Asheville restaurant named one of the most romantic places to dine in the U.S.

Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .

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Solar Storm Intensifies, Filling Skies With Northern Lights

Officials warned of potential blackouts or interference with navigation and communication systems this weekend, as well as auroras as far south as Southern California or Texas.

By Katrina Miller and Judson Jones

Katrina Miller reports on space and astronomy and Judson Jones is a meteorologist.

A dramatic blast from the sun set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere on Friday that is expected to make the northern lights visible as far south as Florida and Southern California and could interfere with power grids, communications and navigations system.

It is the strongest such storm to reach Earth since Halloween of 2003. That one was strong enough to create power outages in Sweden and damage transformers in South Africa.

The effects could continue through the weekend as a steady stream of emissions from the sun continues to bombard the planet’s magnetic field.

The solar activity is so powerful that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, issued an unusual storm watch for the first time in 19 years, which was then upgraded to a warning. The agency began observing outbursts on the sun’s surface on Wednesday, with at least five heading in the direction of Earth.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday morning.

For people in many places, the most visible part of the storm will be the northern lights, known also as auroras. But authorities and companies will also be on the lookout for the event’s effects on infrastructure, like global positioning systems, radio communications and even electrical power.

While the northern lights are most often seen in higher latitudes closer to the North Pole, people in many more parts of the world are already getting a show this weekend that could last through the early part of next week.

As Friday turned to Saturday in Europe, people across the continent described skies hued in a mottling of colors.

Alfredo Carpineti , an astrophysicist, journalist and author in North London, saw them with his husband from the rooftop of their apartment building.

“It is incredible to be able to see the aurora directly from one’s own backyard,” he said. “I was hoping to maybe catch a glimpse of green on the horizon, but it was all across the sky in both green and purple.”

Here’s what you need to know about this weekend’s solar event.

How will the storm affect people on Earth?

A geomagnetic storm watch or warning indicates that space weather may affect critical infrastructure on or orbiting near Earth. It may introduce additional current into systems, which could damage pipelines, railroad tracks and power lines.

According to Joe Llama, an astronomer at Lowell Observatory, communications that rely on high frequency radio waves, such as ham radio and commercial aviation , are most likely to suffer. That means it is unlikely that your cellphone or car radio, which depend on much higher frequency radio waves, will conk out.

Still, it is possible for blackouts to occur. As with any power outage, you can prepare by keeping your devices charged and having access to backup batteries, generators and radio.

The most notable solar storm recorded in history occurred in 1859. Known as the Carrington Event, it lasted for nearly a week, creating aurora that stretched down to Hawaii and Central America and impacting hundreds of thousands of miles of telegraph lines.

But that was technology of the 19th century, used before scientists fully understood how solar activity disrupted Earth’s atmosphere and communication systems.

“That was an extreme level event,” said Shawn Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. “We are not anticipating that.”

Unlike tornado watches and warnings, the target audience for NOAA’s announcements is not the public.

“For most people here on planet Earth, they won’t have to do anything,” said Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

The goal of the announcements is to give agencies and companies that operate this infrastructure time to put protection measures in place to mitigate any effects.

“If everything is working like it should, the grid will be stable and they’ll be able to go about their daily lives,” Mr. Steenburgh said.

Will I be able to see the northern lights?

It is possible that the northern lights may grace the skies this week over places that don’t usually see them. The best visibility is outside the bright lights of cities.

Clouds or stormy weather could pose a problem in some places. But if the skies are clear, even well south of where the aurora is forecast to take place, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone. The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Another opportunity could be viewing sunspots during the daytime, if your skies are clear. As always, do not look directly at the sun without protection. But if you still have your eclipse glasses lying around from the April 8 event, you may try to use them to try to spot the cluster of sunspots causing the activity.

How strong is the current geomagnetic storm?

Giant explosions on the surface of the sun, known as coronal mass ejections, send streams of energetic particles into space. But the sun is large, and such outbursts may not cross our planet as it travels around the star. But when these particles create a disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field, it is known as a geomagnetic storm.

NOAA classifies these storms on a “G” scale of 1 to 5, with G1 being minor and G5 being extreme. The most extreme storms can cause widespread blackouts and damage to infrastructure on Earth. Satellites may also have trouble orienting themselves or sending or receiving information during these events.

The current storm is classified as G5, or “extreme.” It is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface — that is about 16 times the diameter of Earth. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Why is this happening now?

The sun’s activity ebbs and flows on an 11-year cycle, and right now, it is approaching a solar maximum. Three other severe geomagnetic storms have been observed so far in the current activity cycle, which began in December 2019, but none were predicted to cause effects strong enough on Earth to warrant a watch or warning announcement.

The cluster of sunspots generating the current storm is the largest seen in this solar cycle, NOAA officials said. They added that the activity in this cycle has outperformed initial predictions .

More flares and expulsions from this cluster are expected, but because of the sun’s rotation the cluster will be oriented in a position less likely to affect Earth. In the coming weeks, the sunspots may appear again on the left side of the sun, but it is difficult for scientists to predict whether this will cause another bout of activity.

“Usually, these don’t come around packing as much of a punch as they did originally,” Mr. Dahl said. “But time will tell on that.”

Jonathan O’Callaghan contributed reporting from London.

An earlier version of this article misstated the radio frequencies used by cellphones and car radios. They are higher frequencies, not low.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

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US company Booking Holdings added to European Union’s list for strict digital scrutiny

FILE - European Commissioner for Europe fit for the Digital Age Margrethe Vestager speaks during a media conference regarding the Digital Markets Act at EU headquarters in Brussels, Monday, March 25, 2024. The European Commission, the EU’s executive branch, said on Monday, May 13, 2024, Booking.com meets the threshold to be classed as a “core platform service” under the 27-nation bloc’s Digital Markets Act. The sweeping set of rules is designed to prevent Big Tech platforms from dominating online markets. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo, File)

FILE - European Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton addresses a media conference regarding the Digital Markets Act at EU headquarters in Brussels, Monday, March 25, 2024. The European Commission, the EU’s executive branch, said on Monday, May 13, 2024, Booking.com meets the threshold to be classed as a “core platform service” under the 27-nation bloc’s Digital Markets Act. The sweeping set of rules is designed to prevent Big Tech platforms from dominating online markets. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo, File)

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LONDON (AP) — Booking Holdings, the U.S. company that owns Booking.com and a number of other travel websites, has been added to the European Union’s list of companies now under heightened digital scrutiny.

The European Commission, the EU’s executive branch, said Monday that it’s classing Booking Holdings as an online gatekeeper and that the company’s Booking.com hotel reservation site meets the threshold to be classed as a “core platform service” under the 27-nation bloc’s Digital Markets Act . The sweeping set of rules is designed to prevent Big Tech platforms from dominating online markets.

European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager said the decision means that vacationers “will start benefiting from more choice and hotels will have more business opportunities.”

The company said it has “been working with the European Commission for some time as we anticipated today’s decision. We are reviewing their designation decision now and will continue to work constructively with them as we develop solutions to comply.”

Booking Holdings, based in Norwalk, Connecticut, owns a slew of other travel sites including Cheapflights, Kayak.com and Priceline as well as restaurant reservation platform OpenTable, but those platforms aren’t included in the EU decision.

Since the rules took effect earlier this year, half a dozen companies have already been classified as online gatekeepers. Some including Apple, Google and Meta are already facing investigations into whether they’re doing enough to comply.

Under the DMA, platforms must comply with a list of do’s and don’ts — such as not giving preference to their own services over rivals — under threat of hefty financial penalties or even breaking up businesses. The rules are designed to make digital markets “fairer” and more competitive by breaking up closed tech ecosystems that lock consumers into a single company’s products or services.

The commission said Booking.com “now has six months to comply with the relevant obligations under the DMA, offering more choice and freedom to end users and fair access of business users to the gatekeeper services.”