The Complete and Only Travel Packing Checklist You’ll Ever Need

People are ready to travel again after two years of the pandemic. A recent survey of travelers in 12 counties found that 65% of them plan to take an extravagant trip in 2022.

You should start thinking about packing for your big trip now. That gives you plenty of time to get everything you need to have an unforgettable trip.

Fortunately, you’re in the right place. We’re about to give you a travel packing checklist that covers what you need to know before you take off.

Read on to learn the best smart travel tips so you can pack your bags like an expert.

1. Travel Documents

Traveling during a global pandemic is challenging, to say the least. Requirements change often, and you have to stay up to date with the latest changes.

For domestic travel inside the US, you’ll need your ID. That can be a passport, driver’s license or other state-issued ID.

International travel is tricky. Most countries have entry requirements that have to be satisfied before you leave for your destination.

You may need to show your vaccination card or take a PCR test within 48 hours before leaving. Countries like Spain and Germany ask passengers to fill out a form before the trip.

These forms generate a QR code, which you’ll present at immigration when you arrive at your destination.

Airlines are trying to make the process easier by asking you to upload your documents about 48 hours before departure.

Other documents to have are confirmation receipts for hotel and transportation, health insurance and travel cards, credit cards, and cash.

2. Luggage Sizes

The luggage size you have determines how much you’re going to take with you. You might need a new bag, depending on the purpose of your trip.

If you’re going hiking or climbing Kilimanjaro, you’ll only need a backpack. Anything more than that, and you’re carrying extra weight that impacts your hiking enjoyment. If you do happen to overpack, worry not as a bag service like luggage storage San Francisco can store your luggage safely for you. Leave your bags, enjoy your hike and come collect them when you are ready.

For a short weekend trip, you can fit everything you need in a carry-on bag. Double-check the airline’s carry-on requirements.

Trips of a week or more need to have checked bags.

3. Clothes

Check the weather reports for your destination. That will help you determine what clothes you’ll need.

Layout outfits for each day, including socks, underwear, and clothes. If the weather fluctuates, bring a couple of sweaters so you stay warm when the temperature drops.

You can separate items and pack them one at a time in your bag. If your destination has a laundry machine on site, you can pack fewer items and do a load of laundry there.

Don’t forget to pack something for a fancy dinner or special night out on the town.

Consider the activities, too. You might need to pack a bathing suit, ski gear, or golf bag. Think of the things you want to do on vacation.

Find out if it’s easier to rent gear or bring it with you. Then look up your airline’s baggage fees for special items.

Accessories such as money belts, luggage locks, headlamps, make things easier when you’re seeing the sights.

4. Toiletries

Toiletries are the things you know you need but always forget. Pack a toiletry bag that has a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and shaving items.

Nail clippers, tweezers, and a personal mirror are handy items to have with you.

5. Carry-On Items

Carry-on bags are perfect for electronics, books, and magazines to entertain yourself on a long flight.

Camera gear, laptops, mobile devices, and chargers should be in this bag. International travelers should have a travel converter.

There are backpacks that have compartments for cameras, lenses, and laptops. You can even fit a tripod on the bottom of the bag to have everything with you.

Bring your medication in your carry-on bag. This way you have them on you should your luggage get lost in transit.  

You can bring a small container of hand sanitizer with you. Put it in a clear plastic bag to clear security at the airport.

6. First-Aid Items

You never know how your vacation will go. It’s common for people to get sick or need medical attention while they’re away.

Be as prepared as you can with a first-aid kit. Pain relief meds, bandages, thermometer, cold medicine, sunscreen, and motion sickness pills should be in your bag.

These days don’t forget to pack plenty of masks. Some places no longer allow cloth masks, so make sure you check your destination about the requirements.

7. Weigh Your Bags

Airlines have strict requirements about the size and weight of your luggage. They will weigh your bags at the airport. If you go over the limit, you’ll get additional fees.

Check with your airline, but know most airlines have a 62 linear inch requirement and your bags can’t weigh more than 50 pounds.

Calculate the linear inches by adding the total height (including wheels), width, and depth. If you think you’re going to get close to the weight limit, pick up a luggage scale and weigh your bags as you pack them.

You might have to shuffle items around or make tough decisions to leave a few things home. It’s a lot better than getting to the airport to find out you have to pay $100 in overage fees.

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Packing

Getting ready for a big trip is stressful because you want to make sure you have everything you need for a fun and exciting trip.

Travel packing doesn’t have to be stressful. You just need a comprehensive checklist. You just learned the best ways to prepare for your trip, making sure you focus on the excitement of the vacation, not the travel packing worry.

Check out the blog for more exciting travel news and lifestyle tips today!