Getting ready for a trip? Our comprehensive packing list, ensures you won't leave anything behind.
Whether you’re heading on a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous hike, or a city escape, Trip.com is here to help make sure you’re fully prepared for your next getaway.
Our ultimate packing guide has everything you need from must-have essentials to useful travel tips to ensure that you have everything packed and ready to go.
Let’s dive in and get you ready for your next unforgettable journey!
🏨The Ultimate Packing Checklist
Universal Travel Packing List
Before tailoring your packing for a specific destination or season, start with these essentials:
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
Clothing & Accessories | Tops, t-shirts, and blouses; Bottoms: pants, shorts, skirts; Underwear & socks; Pajamas or sleepwear; Comfortable walking shoes + dress shoes; Outerwear: jackets or coats depending on season; Swimwear; Hat, scarf, gloves (seasonal); Sunglasses and belts |
Toiletries & Personal Care | Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss; Shampoo, conditioner, body wash; Skincare & sunscreen; Razor, deodorant, feminine hygiene products; Travel-sized medications & first aid kit |
Travel Documents & Essentials | Passport and visas; Boarding passes / flight tickets; Travel insurance documents; Credit/debit cards and cash; Smartphone, charger, power bank; Travel adapter / converter |
Extras | Travel pillow & eye mask; Reusable water bottle; Snacks for the journey; Notebook, pen, or travel journal |
💼List of Essentials: What to Keep With You
When traveling, your carry-on should contain everything you need during the flight and for immediate access upon arrival.
Checked luggage items:
Checked luggage typically has a standard size limit of 158 cm (62 inches), which is the total of the length, width, and height of the suitcase.
Most airlines allow one piece of checked baggage weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs) for Economy Class passengers. Premium class passengers (Business or First Class) are often permitted two pieces of checked luggage, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs).
It’s important to note that batteries of any kind, including lithium-ion and power banks, are not allowed in checked baggage due to safety risks.
Additionally, items such as laptops, cameras, and other electronics should be carried in your carry-on bag to avoid damage or theft.
Always check with your airline for specific weight and size limits, as well as any additional charges for excess baggage.
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
Travel Documents | Passport, visas, boarding passes, travel insurance, ID cards |
Electronics | Smartphone, charger, power bank, headphones/earbuds, e-reader or tablet |
Personal Care | Face masks, hand sanitizer, tissues, travel-sized toiletries, lip balm, medications |
Comfort & Convenience | Travel pillow, eye mask, earplugs, light sweater or shawl, reusable water bottle |
Valuables | Wallet, credit/debit cards, cash, jewelry (optional) |
Entertainment & Snacks | Books, magazines, snacks, chewing gum, water bottle (empty before security) |
Hold Luggage Items:
Hold luggage typically has a standard size limit of 23cm x 36cm x 56cm (9 x 14 x 22 inches) for carry-on items, especially for air travel.
For Economy and Premium Economy passengers on traditional airlines, one piece of hold luggage weighing up to 7 kg (15 lbs) is permitted, while Business and First Class passengers are allowed two pieces, each weighing up to 7 kg (15 lbs).
On low-cost airlines, only one piece of hand baggage up to 7 kg (15 lbs) is allowed. It’s important to remember that batteries of any kind must not be packed in checked baggage.
Items such as laptops, cameras, and urine bag chargers are not permitted in hold luggage.
| Item | Reason for Packing |
|---|---|
Clothing | Multiple outfits for the duration of your trip (include underwear, socks, and sleepwear) |
Shoes | Comfortable walking shoes and any special footwear (e.g., sandals, formal shoes) |
Toiletries (Full Size) | Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other personal hygiene items (in larger quantities) |
Extra Toiletries | Hairbrush, razor, deodorant, sunscreen, etc. |
Jewelry & Accessories | Pack carefully in a protective case if necessary |
Chargers (for devices) | For your phone, tablet, laptop, etc. |
Swimwear | If you're heading somewhere with a pool or beach |
Electronics | Laptops, cameras, or any tech you need for your trip (in protective cases) |
Souvenirs & Gifts | Space to carry any items you pick up on your travels |
Snacks | Larger snacks or specialty items not suitable for carry-on |
Books, Magazines, or Guides | For entertainment or to help with sightseeing plans |
Laundry Bag | For dirty clothes during the trip |
First Aid Kit | Include any non-prescription medications and basic bandages or treatments |
Heavy or Bulkier Items | Coats, jackets, or items that don’t fit in your carry-on |
Travel Checklist for Specific Scenarios
1. Winter Packing List
For cold-weather trips, add the following:
| Winter Clothing & Accessories | Items |
|---|---|
Outerwear | Heavy coat or parka |
Base Layers | Thermal underwear & layers |
Footwear | Waterproof boots |
Accessories | Gloves, scarf, and beanie |
Skincare | Lip balm and moisturizers |
2. Holiday Packing Tips
For festive or long-haul trips:
| Holiday Packing Tips | Items / Advice |
|---|---|
Dressier outfits | Pack outfits suitable for special occasions or festive events |
Gifts & Souvenirs | Bring compact gifts or plan extra space for shopping |
Extra luggage | Leave room in your bag for souvenirs and purchases |
Travel accessories | Use packing cubes and organizers to save space and stay organized |
3. Beach or Tropical Trips
| Beach / Tropical Packing Items | Details |
|---|---|
Lightweight clothing & shorts | Comfortable and breathable clothes for hot weather |
Swimwear & cover-ups | Swimsuits, rash guards, or sarongs for the beach/pool |
Footwear | Sandals or flip-flops suitable for sand and water |
Health & Skin Care | Bug repellent and after-sun lotion for protection and care |
Expert Packing Hacks & Tips
Packing efficiently can save space, reduce stress, and make travel more comfortable. Here are some expert tips for smart packing:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
Use Packing Cubes | Organize clothing and accessories into separate cubes for easy access and space-saving. |
Roll Your Clothes | Rolling instead of folding prevents wrinkles and maximizes suitcase space. |
Layer Smartly | Pack versatile layers that can be mixed and matched for different weather conditions. |
Carry-On Essentials | Always keep important documents, valuables, and a change of clothes in your carry-on. |
Limit Shoes | Shoes take the most space—pack only what’s necessary and wear the bulkiest pair during travel. |
Use Travel-Sized Toiletries | Save weight and comply with airline liquid restrictions. |
Check Airline Baggage Rules | Know your luggage weight limits and restrictions to avoid extra fees. |
Leave Extra Space | Reserve room for souvenirs or unexpected purchases during your trip. |
Digital Backups | Keep copies of travel documents on your phone or cloud storage. |
Plan Outfits | Pre-plan outfits to reduce overpacking and ensure you have appropriate clothing for all activities. |
Key Travel Regulations: What You Need to Know
| Category | Regulations / Tips |
|---|---|
Liquids & Gels | Carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 100ml or less; store them in a transparent, resealable 1-liter bag for security checks. |
Power Banks & Batteries | Must be carried in carry-on luggage only; check airline watt-hour (Wh) limits for larger batteries. |
Sharp Objects | Knives, scissors, and other sharp items are not allowed in carry-on luggage; pack in checked bags if necessary. |
Medications | Carry essential medications in original packaging with prescriptions; check for controlled substances restrictions. |
Electronics | Laptops, tablets, and large electronics may need to be removed from bags for security screening. |
Food & Agricultural Items | Some countries restrict certain foods, plants, and animal products; always declare items at customs. |
Travel Documents | Always keep passport, visas, boarding passes, and travel insurance easily accessible for security and immigration checks. |
Conclusion
A well-prepared travel packing list and checklist reduce stress and ensure you enjoy your trip.
Tailor your packing based on destination, season, and trip type. Use this guide as a universal framework, and add specific items for winter, holiday, or tropical trips to make your travel hassle-free.
FAQ: Baggage Checklist
What should I pack in my carry-on bag?
Your carry-on should include essential items you might need during the flight or in case of delays. This includes travel documents (passport, tickets), valuables (electronics, jewelry), personal items (toiletries under 100ml, medications), and a change of clothes. Don't forget your charger, snacks, and entertainment like a book or tablet.How can I save space in my checked luggage?
Use packing cubes to organize and compress your clothing. Vacuum bags are also great for bulky items like jackets or sweaters. Rolling clothes instead of folding them reduces wrinkles and maximizes space. Additionally, consider wearing your heaviest clothes (like jackets and boots) on the plane to lighten your luggage.Can I bring full-sized toiletries in my checked baggage?
Yes, you can pack full-sized toiletries in your checked luggage. However, remember that liquids, gels, and aerosols over 100ml are not allowed in carry-on bags. To save space and weight, consider using travel-sized containers or decanting products into smaller bottles for your carry-on.How do I avoid exceeding my luggage weight limit?
Weigh your luggage at home before you leave to ensure you’re within the airline's weight limit. Opt for lightweight clothing and packing materials. If you’re close to the limit, redistribute weight between bags or wear bulky items like jackets or shoes on the plane.What are some essential items I should never forget to pack?
Aside from your clothes and toiletries, make sure you pack travel documents (passport, visa, tickets), necessary medications, chargers, and an emergency kit (first-aid supplies, hand sanitizer, masks). It’s also a good idea to have a power bank, snacks, and a water bottle to stay comfortable during your journey.