My Go-To Packing List for International Travel, (After Visiting 50+ Countries)

Want to simplify your packing routine? Follow my go-to guide for packing for your next international trip.

Traveling internationally has been one of my life’s greatest joys—which is basically why I created an entire career around it. But you know what hasn’t been one of my life’s greatest joys? Packing for said international trips.

After traveling to over 50 countries and working as a travel blogger for a decade plus, I’ve done my fair share of packing. I’ve packed for weekend getaways in the city, tropical resort vacations, long-term nomadic adventures and everything in between.

While the act of packing for international travel hasn’t gotten more enjoyable, per se, it has gotten easier over the years with many, many hours of repetition. In this post, I’m happy to share all my tips and tricks with you. 

Getting to see and explore other countries and cultures can be such a fun, exciting, and eye-opening experience and it would be a shame to let the daunting act of packing get in the way of your fun.

Keep reading because in this post, I’ve put together a complete packing list for international travel with all the items I don’t leave home without so you can save yourself some stress and focus on the fun parts of planning your trip abroad.

Packing List for International Travel

Before we get into all my top items to pack, there’s something I need to make clear: whether you consider yourself a list person or not, I would highly recommend using a packing list for international travel.

Leaving your packing list to memory leaves a lot of room for error, and once you’re abroad it can be a bit challenging in certain destinations to find the specific items you need, especially if you’re traveling somewhere more remote. 

Plus when you’re traveling overseas there are a few extra things you’re going to need to arrange beforehand, like getting all your travel IDs and documents together, figuring out how you’ll use your phone, getting the right electrical outlet converter so you can use your devices, and much more.

Making a packing list in advance and reading it over a few times in the weeks leading up to your trip will help you to be as prepared as possible AND reduce anxiety.

What to do Before International Travel

Before we get into what to pack, there are some things to keep in mind beforehand. For the full exhaustive list of everything to do before leaving on an international trip, make sure to grab my FREE travel checklist below. But here’s a good list to start.

Don’t forget to do these things leading up to your trip:

• Check passport expiration and blank pages requirement for your destination
• Confirm visa or ETA requirements
• Check vaccination and health requirements for your destination
• Notify bank of travel
• Download offline Google Maps for your destination
• Set up an international eSIM or phone plan
• Purchase travel insurance
• Check airline baggage limits, especially on smaller regional flights
• Set up any needed pet or house sitting help
• Share your itinerary with a trusted person back home
• Download entertainment for the flight on your device ahead of time

What To Pack for International Travel

Now keep in mind, packing for a long weekend in a European city is going to require a much different packing list than one for a two-week safari in Africa.

For that reason I’m not going to get into super specific wardrobe musts and niche items that only apply to certain types of trips. Think of this as more of a general international travel packing list of things you’ll want to have with you on any trip abroad.

Identification and Travel Documents

1. Passport: Double and triple check that you have your passport before you leave for the airport because it’s essential for any international travel. Also, in the months leading up to your trip, be sure that your passport is not only up to date, but that it has at least six months validity before it expires as this is often a requirement in certain destinations. 
2. Visas: Some countries require visas and some don’t. Do your research well beforehand and make sure you have all the necessary documents that the country you’re traveling to requires. 
3. ID/Driver’s License: Your passport will suffice as identification, but your regular driver’s license can be helpful to have too and is necessary if you’re planning on renting a car. And speaking of renting a car, you may need to get an International Driver’s License beforehand if your destination country requires it. 
4. Itineraries: While you don’t necessarily need to print these out, it’s good to at least have a Note in your phone with all your travel plans in one place along with accommodation addresses, confirmation numbers, etc. This way, you won’t be relying on spotty WI-FI to dig up your hotel reservation info when you get to the front desk. 
5. Travel Insurance: This is one of those things you feel like you never need…until you do. And I can say from experience that when I needed it, boy was I glad I had it. Travel insurance covers your back in case of any trip cancellations, delays, and medical emergencies abroad, among other things. It’s truly a must. I personally use World Nomads insurance for all of my trips and have found them to be affordable with great coverage and customer service.
6. Photocopies of All Important Documents: Hopefully you won’t have to use them, but in the unlikely event that any of your important documents go missing, having a photocopy of it can help speed up the process of getting everything sorted out. I love the app Scanner Pro, because it allows you to create digital copies of files and save them directly in your phone.

Credit Cards and Local Currency

You’ll definitely want to travel with at least one credit card (preferably one that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees) and a debit card too, so you can have access to cash if need be. 

If you’re traveling to a major city, there’s a good chance you can get through your entire trip without needing physical currency, but if you’re heading to smaller towns or more remote areas, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.

You can either order currency in advance from your local bank or just head to the ATM or a bank once you arrive. Exchanging money at the airport is usually going to get you the worst exchange rate so avoid doing it there. 

It’s worth getting a currency exchange app on your phone too so you can quickly calculate how much things cost on the fly. If you have a newer iPhone this is already baked into your calculator app. This is especially helpful when you’ll be in a country with a currency that isn’t comparable at all to your home country’s.  

Clothing

The clothing you pack will certainly vary depending on what type of climate and destination you’re traveling to, the specific activities you plan on doing, and how long you’ll be gone for.

For example, if you’re visiting the Middle East, you’ll likely need more pieces that cover shoulders like long-sleeved dresses and shawls. In Mexico you’ll want more lightweight dresses and cover-ups, etc. If you’re going on a hiking trip, you’ll need more specific technical gear.

I always love to get into the spirit of the destination I’m visiting and pack appropriately for that specific locale and vibe. Here are a few examples below of how I’m dressed for various destinations I’ve visited.

My process for finding outfit inspiration is usually by looking at a mix of Instagram and Pinterest posts to see what types of looks I like in each destination first.

Then I start by assessing what I already have in my closet. From there, I can brainstorm what pieces I might need to purchase or rent with Nuuly to put together the looks I’m envisioning.

Here’s a general packing list of clothes you’ll want to bring along no matter the destination:

1. Underwear
2. Bras
3. Socks
4. Tops: Short sleeved shirts and tanks.
5. Warmer Layers: Sweaters, sweatshirts and long sleeve shirts. Even if you’re traveling somewhere tropical, these are key to stay warm in the AC.
6. Bottoms: Pants, shorts, skirts.
7. Dresses
8. Jacket: Think lightweight like a denim jacket for warm climates and more hefty duty for colder destinations and/or rain jacket.
9. Accessories: Things like hats, scarves and gloves for colder climates, beach hat and sunglasses for warmer temps.
10. Eye glasses/contacts
11. Jewelry: Just don’t bring anything super expensive or irreplaceable)
12. Athleisure Clothing: If you plan to exercise while away.
13. Pajamas
14. Shoes: You’ll want comfortable shoes for walking like sneakers, boots for winter travel, flips flops or sandals for beach trips, nicer/more dressy shoes if necessary for your itinerary)
15. Bathing Suit: No matter what the season or the destination, it’s always worth packing just in case. 

Makeup + Toiletry Items

Most hotels and Airbnbs have basic products like shampoo/conditioner and soap and often a blow dryer too, but you’ll still want to pack your favs.

Keep in mind that anything you plan to bring on the plane with you will need to be under 3.4 oz. limit, so take advantage of your favorite brands’ travel sizes. Or utilize things like Cadence travel capsules to fill with your favorite products into TSA-approved containers.

Larger containers containing liquids, gels, and lotions can be packed in your checked luggage. 

Here are the essential toiletries to pack with you:

1. Shampoo + conditioner 
2. Body wash/soap
3. Face wash
4. Moisturizer
5. Creams/serums: If they are in your daily skincare routine. Face masks are great to pack too because they are an easy way to refresh dry and weary travel skin.
6. Body lotion
7. Deodorant
8. Sunscreen
9. Toothbrush + toothpaste
10. Makeup 
11. Hairbrush and hair accessories
12. Nail clippers/nail file
13. Razor: Just make sure it isn’t in your carry-on.
14. Hair tools: Double check that they are dual voltage and make sure to pack a heavy duty voltage converter because hair dryers can definitely blow a converter if it isn’t strong enough.
15. Feminine-related products that you’ll need
16. Q-tips

Medications + First Aid Essentials

Don’t go overboard with a full-on first aid kit, but it’s helpful to have at least a few essentials in case you end up with a cut or a blister—or worse. Some destinations will naturally require a more intensive medication kit than others.

Here are a few suggestions for what to bring:

1. Prescription Medications: Pack them in original labeled containers (and bring extra in case of trip delays).
2. Copies of prescriptions
3. Doctor’s note for controlled or essential meds
4. Vitamins or supplements: Only ones that you take normally at home and don’t want to skip during your trip.
5. Pain reliever of choice
6. Dramamine: If you are prone to motion sickness.
7. Melatonin: If you like to use this for sleep (especially helpful with jet lag).
8. Bandaids
9. Antibiotic ointment
10. Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
11. Insect repellent: If you’re traveling somewhere that will be buggy. I love these more natural wipes that are easily packable.
12. Electrolyte packets
13. Anti-diarrheal medication / stomach remedies
14. Travel-size tissues
15. Destination-specific medications (like malaria pills or altitude medication)

Keep in mind that some countries restrict medications that are legal in the U.S., so always check rules in your destination before packing prescriptions. Adderall for example, is strictly prohibited in countries like Japan, South Korea and UAE and come with severe penalties.

Electronics

The first thing you need to do before packing your electronics is to look up the style of electrical outlets in your destination country. If they’re different than your home country, you’re going to need to buy an international travel adapter beforehand if you want to use any of your electronic devices while away. 

I personally like to bring multiple travel adapters with me on trips because I often need to charge many items at once, especially as a photographer/content creator who travels with a lot of gear. One might be plenty for you though!

Don’t forget to pack these electronics essentials:

1. International Travel Adapter: Don’t leave home without this! International travel adapters for electricity vary from country to country so be sure to do your research before you go and make sure you’re getting one that works for your destination. Luckily they are inexpensive and easy to find online—and often in the airport if you forget one.
2. Phone and Charger: And speaking of your phone, you’ll want to decide beforehand how you’re going to handle phone usage abroad. Your provider most likely offers an international plan you can sign up for that is relatively inexpensive, or you can buy an eSIM that automatically allows you to have service once you arrive. I love Holafly and Airalo, which are two reputable eSIM brands. Having full access to your phone is invaluable (and the best safety protocol when traveling), so this isn’t something to skimp on.
3. Laptop and/or Tablet and Chargers 
4. Camera and Accessories: Don’t forget the charger, extra memory cards and any lenses and accessories that you want for your trip too.
5. Headphones: It’s beneficial to have a corded pair that’s compatible with the in-seat TV on the plane, or grab an AirFly which allows you to connect your personal headphones wirelessly through Bluetooth to the in-flight entertainment. Noise canceling headphones are great to have on the plane too.  
6. Portable Charger/Power Bank: Is there anything worse than your phone dying in the middle of an epic day out exploring? Especially now that our phones double as our navigation systems, travel cameras, and currency converters, letting your phone die can be a real bummer.

Flight & Carry-On Essentials

For long flights abroad, these items can make such a difference in your overall experience.

1. Luggage Locks: I’ve personally had items stolen from my luggage before, so I know firsthand the importance of grabbing TSA-approved locks. Just make sure to set them up ahead of your trip so you’re not scrambling in the baggage drop line.
2. Ear Plugs: I’m an ear plugs gal through and through. I sleep with them every night at home, but they’re especially clutch for travel when you never know how noisy your accommodations might be.
3. Eye Mask: A sleep mask is another non-negotiable for me. I wear them every night to bed at home, but especially on bright flights, they can be essential for getting some shut eye on the plane. Plus, you never know what the lighting situation is going to be in your hotel room. Better to be safe than sorry. This is the blackout one I’ve used for years and it’s under $10.
4. Reusable Water Bottle: I hate forgetting this one on long flights, because it means I have to rely on the in-flight service for water refills and have my tray table down to keep water accessible. Not a fan. If you’re traveling somewhere warm, having an insulated water bottle that keeps your water cold all day will definitely be worth it. 
5. Neck Pillow: If you’re a poor sleeper on planes like me, than a neck pillow might be your savior. This is the best one I’ve found over the last 10 years of flying. It packs down super compact in a ball and actually keeps my neck upright for maximum comfort.
6. Kindle or Book: For my fellow book worms, don’t forget to pack this before getting on your flight. I prefer to always bring a Kindle as it packs lighter and can fit more than one read, but there is something about a physical book that feels luxurious, especially on a beach vacation.
7. Compression Socks: For flights over four hours, compression socks can make a world of difference in helping you arrive more refreshed and less swollen. Plus, they reduce the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) that can occur when sitting on flights for many hours. If you take care of your body en route, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running on arrival.
8. Change of Clothes: In the case of lost luggage, it’s not a bad idea to have an extra change of clothes and underwear in your in-flight bag so you can still be prepared to adventure upon arrival.
9. Lip Balm + Lotion: Flights are notoriously dry environments, so if you’re someone like me that has dry skin, you’ll want that extra moisture.
10. Snacks: Self explanatory. Some of my favorite snacks to pack for flights are Go Macro bars and homemade granola.

BAGS + Miscellaneous International Travel Must-Haves

1. Travel Umbrella: If you don’t want to have to buy one of those cheesy tourist ponchos when an unexpected downpour hits, a small travel umbrella is worthwhile to have on hand. 
2. Laundry Sheets: If you plan on doing laundry in your destination in your Airbnb or home stay, you may want to throw some laundry sheets in your bag to avoid having to go out and source some. You can skip this one if you’re trying to pack as light as possible, but if you care about the chemicals in your detergent, it’s helpful to purchase beforehand to get a brand you trust. These laundry sheets are easily packable and are EWG-certified (i.e highest level of standard for being non-toxic).
3. Money Belt or Antitheft Travel Wallet: I’ll be honest, I haven’t used these in awhile as it feels a bit like overkill, but if they will make you feel more at ease, it’s worth it for the peace of mind. I would do research on your destination ahead of your trip to see if pickpocketing is common and make an informed decision.
4. Airtag: As an extra layer of protection to avoid lost luggage or stolen bags, throwing an Airtag into each piece of luggage can provide some extra peace of mind.
5. Dry Bag/Wet Bag: If you’re traveling anywhere where clothing items might get extra dirty (like ATV adventures or muddy hikes), or you plan to do activities on the water, a dry bag and wet bag can help keep the rest of your luggage unscathed.
6. Travel Steamer: Whenever I’m traveling somewhere where I have an event like a wedding or important work meetings, or if I am going to be photographed in certain clothing items, I really like to bring this travel steamer. It just makes all the difference in helping me feel put together.
7. Collapsible Tote: If you’re planning on hitting up farmers markets or doing some shopping, a collapsible tote can be super helpful and doesn’t take up a lot of room in your luggage.
8. Packing Cubes: These make every act of packing way more enjoyable
9. Handbag: This is great for quick outings abroad like a dinner at your hotel.
10. Day Bag: If you’re anything like me and carrying allll the camera gear, extra outfits, snacks, etc., you’re going to want something bigger than a basic handbag to carry around for longer days out. I’ve been using this backpack for years for travel—it’s super spacious, packs flat in your luggage and is made from durable recycled nylon that holds up in various conditions. For me a backpack is easiest on my back and shoulders because it distributes weight evenly, but if you’re packing for a beach trip you could also do a foldable tote bag. If you don’t need to carry around much, a sling bag/fanny pack bag is the way to go as it stays close to your body for extra safety.

What Not to Pack for International Travel

Almost as important as what to pack for your trip is what NOT to pack. You can often buy things you forgot in your destination, but packing too much or the wrong items can really create headaches for you once you arrive.

What Not to Pack for Your Next Trip:

• Too many shoes
• Expensive jewelry
• Full-size toiletries in carry-on
• Hair tools that aren’t dual voltage
• More than one physical book
• Items you can easily buy abroad
• Fresh foods / restricted agricultural items
• Anything sentimental or irreplaceable in checked luggage
• Medications or drugs that are illegal in your destination
• Drones if not allowed in destination
• Water and ice through TSA

How To Pack for International Travel More Efficiently

So now that you have a good sense of what you need to pack, the next step is actually figuring out how to pack it. Sure you can just throw it all in a suitcase and be on your merry way, but keeping a few strategic packing tips in mind will go a long way in keeping things organized and efficient.

Here are some of the golden packing rules I follow now, after many trips abroad over the years.

Find the Right Suitcase for Your Trip

If you travel a lot, it’s absolutely worth investing in a nice suitcase, but you also want to find the right suitcase for you. If you’re savvy you can probably fit a full trip’s worth of packing into a standard carry-on size luggage, but you may want a larger check-in style for longer trips or ones where you’ll be packing bulkier clothing.

The right luggage for you depends on your airline’s luggage restrictions and also the needs of your trip. If traveling around Europe where you might encounter a lot of cobblestone or excessive flights of stairs, you may want to consider a convertible luggage backpack. Duffel bags are often recommended if your trip requires taking tiny planes, like on a safari for example. Do your research ahead of time.

If you need some inspiration, I have a full post where I share the most stylish luggage brands that I’ve discovered over the years.

Utilize Packing Cubes

If you want to take your suitcase packing skills to the next level, packing cubes are the ultimate way to level up your travel organization. I don’t know what I was doing before I started packing with them.

Basically you can group specific items together into little cubes (which are more like zippered pouches), like types of clothing or even full outfits. They also help to compress bulky pieces to save space in your suitcase so you can pack more!

Pack Clothing That Can Be Mixed and Matched

Basics are key when packing for a trip, especially things that can be worn in a few different ways. While I know everyone wants to bring along all their favorite and most fun outfits, it makes more sense space-wise to pack less items but ones that can be mixed and matched.

A basic white or black t-shirt can be dressed up or down depending on what you pair it with, and accessories are a super easy way to change the look of an outfit. 

Try On Every Outfit Before You Pack It

This may seem like an annoying extra step, but don’t skip this one. I’ve often gone to pack an outfit that I thought would work well together only to find out I hated it or didn’t feel comfortable once I actually tried it on.

Trying every single outfit on before it makes the packing cut will help you to edit down your suitcase and only pack things you’re guaranteed to wear.

Edit Ruthlessly

While it might be tempting to pack extra outfit options, all those “just in case” items, and more books than you could possibly read in the time that you’re away, just don’t.

Lugging a giant suitcase through cobblestone streets or up multiple flights of stairs isn’t fun and neither is getting slammed with a hefty baggage fee if you go over the weight limit. Plus, you always want to leave a little extra room in your suitcase for any souvenirs you pick up on your travels. 

Choose Accommodations With Laundry

When you know that laundry access is easily waiting for you in your destination, it’s way easier to pack light. Especially now that I’m a mom, this one feels like a non-negotiable so that I don’t have to stress about running out of infant pajamas and burp cloths.

Discern What to Pack in Your Carry On Bag vs. Your Checked Bags

Some people love to check luggage so they don’t have to think about it while others would way rather just pack light and bring everything on board with them in a carry on. Whichever camp you fall into, it’s safe to say that there are some items that should never be in checked luggage like:

• Personal identification and travel docs
• Important medications
• Electronic devices like phones, computers, and cameras (I always like to have my phone charger with me in case my luggage gets lost)

To be on the safe side, pack a change of clothes and any essential toiletries in your carry-on luggage too (an extra pair of undies doesn’t hurt, either) in case you get separated from your checked bags.

International Travel Packing List Download

I hope this helps you pack for your international trip! If you’re looking for more travel guides, like secrets to the cheapest way to travel or travel hacking tips, I’ve got you covered for those too.

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