Amid virtually every voyager’s adventure, packing calamities inevitably emerge. For some, it’s sort of an unofficial, inexorable guarantee. At least every single one of us, myself included, has rocked up to a sweltering summer hot spot, only to discover you’ve ingeniously forgotten your bikinis back home.

Packing fiascos can range from marginal to catastrophic, but the majority can be adeptly averted. 

Whether you’re jetting off on your first flight or a seasoned sightseer, a painstakingly precise packing list will be your biggest ally. I’ve compiled a comprehensive, international checklist encompassing everything from meticulous must-haves to typical toiletries. 

To make things easier, I’ve divided this into three simple sections: 

• Packing & Travel Kits

• Clothes & Shoes 

• Health & Beauty

Is baggage weight holding you back?

At times, the minimalist approach to packing can seem like you must sacrifice style and comfort and cut back on everything to achieve a previously perceived, unachievable task. But, the reality is that travelling light is the utter opposite. It’s simply about being mindful of the small increments that can add up fast. 

Just like making a burrito… You want to chuck in as many mouth-watering Mexican delicacies as humanly possible without the burrito exploding. 

This has been one of the biggest struggles I’ve had every single god damn time I prepare for a trip. 

During one of my vacations, I arrived at the airport with over 35 kilograms of luggage, which was excessive. However, I have discovered some effective organization techniques and minor adjustments I have been implementing over the years of travelling. You can gradually adopt these changes during your trips without feeling overwhelmed until you reach your desired level of organisation.

As you become more adept at packing smart and light, you'll enjoy the advantages of a more mobile, effortless life on the road. Think of it as transitioning from a mule to a bird - light as a feather.

Say adiós to those hefty extra luggage fees incurred at the airport; it’s time to learn how to become a pro packer. A pr-acker, to be exact… Check out more info on How to Pack Light in my post here. 

FAQS

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing list?

Also known as the clothing countdown, the 5 4 3 2 1 packing list limits you to five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three pants, shorts or skirts, two pairs of shoes and one hat.

What needs to be on a packing list?

A packing list should itemise clothing, shoes, electronics, toiletries and anonymous products. Under each category, you’ll find every essential and non-essential item needed for travel. While you don’t have to pack every item, scanning over is helpful to ensure you don’t forget anything.

How do I pack for a 10-day trip?

As a general rule for travel, only pack half the clothes you plan to bring. If you have a large suitcase, pack at least 3 bottoms, 5 tops, 1 hat and 5 pairs of socks and underwear. Pack more of the essentials if you don’t have access to a washing machine.

What should I pack for a 4-week holiday?

Depending on the location, your packing list can vary greatly. Don’t miss these essentials – pants, dresses, shorts, skirts, tops, long-sleeve shirts, underwear, socks and hats. Additional wear can include sunglasses, exercise, summer, and ski gear.

If you want a free, downloadable PDF version of this packing list, let me know in the comments below!