How To Pack For A Trip

Packing for a trip can be exciting, but unpacking is always depressing.

Whenever I get ready to pack for a trip I grab my iPhone. In my “notes” I have a list of all my packing essentials. I made this list a long time ago so that I wouldn’t forget anything. It has made packing so much easier. Now I know this list will look different for everybody. I have my packing list below. So you can use it as a tool for how to pack for a trip.

Rules of Thumb

Pack a laundry bag so you can pack your dirty laundry in it.
- If you don’t have a laundry bag, you can use a plastic garbage bag or small grocery bag. Sometimes, if you check in your hotel closet they have plastic bags for you to put your dry cleaning. I’ll grab that and use it instead.
Plan a outfit for each day.
- That way you don’t over pack.
Use a separate bag for your shoes and or section off your shoes in your suitcase.
Pack one outfit in your carry on.
- In case you lose your luggage.
Pack Toiletries last.
- As you are getting ready to leave, you usually end up using some of your toiletries. Pack them last so you can do a once over before you leave and not forget anything.
Charge Electronics
- Charge your electronics the night before. So you are not scrambling to charge them last minute. Or forced to sit next to an outlet while at the airport.

Packing List

Carry On

Deodorant
Book
Hair tie
Water
Passport
I.D.
Wallet
Purse
Pen
Notebook
Headphones
Cell phone
Perfume
Hand sanitizer
Electronics
Gum
Hand lotion
Lip balm
Snacks

Electronics

Cell Phone
Cell Phone Charger
Headphones
Computer
Computer Charger
External hard drive
Camera
Camera
Portable Charger (Power Bank)

Clothes

Tops
Bottoms
Dresses
Bras
Panties
Socks
Sweater
Jacket
Bathing Suit
Pajamas
Active Wear

Shoes

Sandals
Heels
Sneakers
Boots

Toiletries

Tooth Paste
Tooth Brush
Face Wash
Body Wash
Lotion (Carry On)
Moisturizer
Feminine Products
Razor
Deodorant (Carry On)
Perfume (Carry On)
Medications
Contacts & Glasses
Contact Case & Contact Solution
Hair Brush
Hair Ties
Straightener
Shampoo & Conditioner
Make Up
Tweezers
Nail Clippers
Q-Tips

As far as what carry ons, luggage, and suitcases I use. It depends on where I am going. I usually carry my purse as a personal item and use a backpack for my carry on. If you want to know more about the luggage that I carry with me when I travel. Then check out my Dakine Luggage Review.

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post and that you found this packing list helpful. If you have any questions feel free to comment down below.

Do you have any tips and tricks for when you pack for a trip?

For more helpful travel advice, see these other posts

What To Pack For A Cruise
How To Plan A Staycation
How To Make A Vacation Jar
The Best Travel Souvenirs
How To Stay Healthy While Traveling

How To Pack For A Trip