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The best and only packing list you will need

Going on a vacation should be easy. That’s why I’ve created this helpful and simple list to help you pack. Keep reading or download the list in an editable PDF.

Make sure you always have these. These alone will get you going.

Packing might be stressful, especially in a rush. What to pack? Which shoes to choose? I myself typically leave packing to the latest minute for whatever reason, but even if short on time, packing is very easy when following a packing list. One list can never fully serve every person and every need, but I hope this list covers most of all typical needs.

Clothes

  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • T-shirts
  • Bras
  • Long sleeve
  • Hoodie
  • Trousers/Jeans
  • Shorts
  • Skirts
  • Dresses
  • Sport clothes
  • Swimsuit
  • Jacket

TIP

Pack light: instead of packing many long sleeved options, choose one or two versatile pieces. I usually pack a light jacket, a shirt and an overshirt jacket.

shoes, accessories, equipment

  • Sneakers
  • Sandals and/or flip-flops
  • Hiking shoes
  • Belt
  • A lightweight towel
  • Jewellery
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat(s)
  • Umbrella

TIP

I prefer to pack only one pair of shoes along with sandals. I choose any versatile sneakers which are elegant enough for dinner but comfortable enough for long walks. However if I know I am going hiking, I do pack hiking shoes.

Electronics

  • Charger(s)
  • Outlet adapters
  • Tablet or laptop
  • Sport watch
  • Headphones
  • Portable speaker
  • Powerbank

Personal care essentials

  • Any needed medication
  • Sunscreen
  • Aloe Vera
  • Shampoo/conditioner
  • Moisturizer
  • Deodorant
  • Fragrance
  • Shaving products and equipment
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Comb or brush
  • Hair products
  • Nail clippers
  • Insect repellent
  • Bandages
  • Menstrual products
  • Makeup
  • Makeup removal

Tip

Pack most liquids like shampoo and fragrances in refillable bottles. This will reduce the amount you carry and is greatly helpful when traveling with carry-on only!
Most accommodations provide free shower gel and shampoo. If you don’t require specific products, leave these at home and save a lot of space.

entertainment

  • Book(s)
  • Games, e.g. playing cards
  • Beach toys, balls etc.

Clothes

  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • T-shirts
  • Bras
  • Long sleeve
  • Hoodie
  • Trousers/Jeans
  • Shorts
  • Skirts
  • Dresses
  • Sport clothes
  • Swimsuit
  • Jacket

TIP

Pack light: instead of packing many long sleeved options, choose one or two versatile pieces. I usually pack a light jacket, a shirt and an overshirt jacket.

shoes, accessories, equipment

  • Sneakers
  • Sandals and/or flip-flops
  • Hiking shoes
  • Belt
  • A lightweight towel
  • Jewellery
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat(s)
  • Umbrella

TIP

I prefer to pack only one pair of shoes along with sandals. I choose any versatile sneakers which are elegant enough for dinner but comfortable enough for long walks. However if I know I am going hiking, I do pack hiking shoes.

Electronics

  • Charger(s)
  • Outlet adapters
  • Tablet or laptop
  • Sport watch
  • Headphones
  • Portable speaker
  • Powerbank

Personal care essentials

  • Any needed medication
  • Sunscreen
  • Aloe Vera
  • Shampoo/conditioner
  • Moisturizer
  • Deodorant
  • Fragrance
  • Shaving products and equipment
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Comb or brush
  • Hair products
  • Nail clippers
  • Insect repellent
  • Bandages
  • Menstrual products
  • Makeup
  • Makeup removal

Tip

Pack most liquids like shampoo and fragrances in refillable bottles. This will reduce the amount you carry and is greatly helpful when traveling with carry-on only!
Most accommodations provide free shower gel and shampoo. If you don’t require specific products, leave these at home and save a lot of space.

entertainment

  • Book(s)
  • Games, e.g. playing cards
  • Beach toys, balls etc.

General tips for packing

Blue Luggage with Folded Clothes

When packing for a vacation the most important aspects to consider are the length of your trip, the weather and any specific clothing or equipment you might need.

What to always pack in the carry-on

Packing your carry-on bag efficiently can make your travel experience much smoother. In case your checked bag gets lost or is delayed, make sure all your essentials and valuables are with you in your carry-on bag. These include items like your ID, wallet, house keys, glasses and valuables. General advice is to pack everything you are not able to purchase or replace during your travels in your carry-on package.

Here’s a checklist for your convenience:

  • Travel documents: Passport, boarding pass, travel insurance, and any necessary visas.
  • Personal items: ID, house keys, wallet, glasses/contacts
  • Valuables: Keep your electronics, jewelry, and important documents in your carry-on.
  • Medications: Any prescription medications, along with a small first-aid kit.
  • Your chosen comfort items: Neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and a lightweight blanket.
  • Snacks and water bottle: Non-perishable snacks and an empty water bottle to fill after security.
  • Entertainment: Books, magazines, or a tablet loaded with movies and music.
  • Change of clothes: In case your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
  • Tech essentials: Chargers, power bank, and headphones.

Additionally I highly recommend packing a hand sanitizer and/or disinfectant wipes to your carry-on, because all means of transport tend to be really dirty and airports and airplanes might be one of the worst. I’ve learned it the hard way and spent 5 days in the bed in Montenegro after getting ill on the first day. Keeping your hands clean will greatly reduce the risk of getting sick on your trip.