Packing for an international trip can be both exciting and daunting. The first few times I traveled internationally, I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. Now, more than 20 countries down, I’ve picked up a few cool tips I’d like to share with you to help make preparing for your international trip a little easier. So, let’s unpack my top packing tips to help you pack your bag right.
#1. Plan Your Outfits First
Before you start packing your bag with clothes, take a moment to plan your outfits. Consider the type of events you’ll be attending, the weather, and how much packing space you have to work with. I like taking out all the clothes I plan on wearing and spreading them out on my bed to get a big picture of everything I’m taking. This way, you can easily spot unnecessary items. Aim to pack clothes that you can mix and match, which will help you save space and offer more outfit choices.
Bonus tip: If you plan to visit religious monuments on your trip, remember to pack an outfit for entering these religious sites. Long pants or skirts are a great option. You can also use a light scarf to cover your shoulders and possibly head, depending on the type of monument you’re visiting.
#2. Choose the Right Luggage
Picking the right piece of luggage is crucial. You want to make sure your luggage meets your needs while aligning with the airline’s baggage policy. You’re probably riding high, excited to start your international trip–the last thing you want to do is pay unexpected fees or struggle with oversized bags.
In picking the right luggage to take with you, it should fit the occasion but also make traveling more comfortable and efficient. For example, a backpack is a great option for maneuvering through cobblestone streets or hopping on and off trains. On the other hand, a hard-shell suitcase works best for destinations with smooth pathways or formal events.
As an avid backpacker, my trusty 40-litre Osprey comes with me on almost every trip. But, not all trips suit a backpack. On my first business trip, I arrived at the 5-star hotel where the conference was being held with my trusty pack, and the staff assumed I was lost. I’ve since learned that a hard-shell suitcase would’ve been a much better choice.
There’s really no one-size-fits-all, since every trip and destination is different.
#3. Opt for Less Bulky Tech Gear
One of the most essential packing tips for international travel is to bring multifunctional and compact items, which will save space without sacrificing utility. Some must-haves include universal charging cables, a lightweight power bank, and noise-canceling earbuds.
The Pocket Tripod is another great item to bring with you on your international trip. Folding to the size of a credit card, the Pocket Tripod replaces bulky traditional tripods and can be packed in your wallet or carry-on. With its 180-degree angle adjustment, you can capture hands-free photos and videos at the perfect angle, no matter where you are.
It’s been a lifesaver for me as a solo traveler - no more balancing my phone against water bottles or walls, or awkwardly asking strangers to take a quick photo.
#4. Using Packing Cubes Is a Non-Negotiable
If you take one packing tip from this list, let it be to invest in packing cubes. One of the best ways to pack smart is with packing cubes. Made of mesh and light fabric, these cubes help keep your bag organized and stop you from overpacking. You can also easily find items without digging through your entire bag.
To make the most out of your packing cubes, roll your clothes to save space. You’ll be shocked at how much more room you have when you roll your clothes instead of folding them. Another great trick I learned is to add some tissue paper between your rolled clothes. This tissue paper trick reduces the amount of friction between your clothes and stops them from creasing.
#5. Use a Shower Cap for Your Shoes
Although your shoes might be clean now, you don’t know what they’ll look like during your trip, especially if you plan on hiking or walking around a lot. Using a shower cap to place your shoes in is a nifty way to keep any grime and dirt away from your fresh clothes, especially if you’re limited on space. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for travel, so pack your favorites and use a shower cap to keep them separate from the rest of your items.
You can also repurpose shower caps for wet swimsuits or dirty laundry. Plus, they’re reusable, lightweight, and take up virtually no space in your bag—a practical addition to any packing list.
#6. Pack a Bag Within Your Bag
When you’re focusing on packing up before a trip, it’s way too easy to forget about what you’ll need to pack up during the trip.
Tucking a foldable daypack or tote into your luggage is a smart way to stay prepared for day trips, shopping excursions, or spontaneous outings. I always pack one, and it’s saved me countless times.
Whether it’s carrying snacks for a hike, carrying towels and a book for a day at the beach, or even holding an extra layer when the weather changes unexpectedly. These bags take up minimal space when packed but are incredibly handy for keeping essentials like water bottles, books, or sunscreen within easy reach while you’re out exploring.
#7. Use Pill Organizers for Tangle-Free Jewelry
Keeping your jewelry organized and tangle-free while traveling can be a challenge, but a simple pill organizer works wonders. Each compartment is perfect for storing small items like rings, earrings, or delicate necklaces, keeping them separated and easy to access.
I’ve found this hack especially helpful on longer trips when I want to have a few accessory options without worrying about them turning into a tangled mess.
Bonus tip: You can also use a pill organizer to store small tech essentials like earbuds, memory cards, or adapters, saving space and keeping everything neat. It’s a lightweight, versatile solution that takes the hassle out of packing!
#8. Pack An Airport Pouch
There is nearly nothing as stressful as having to put all your bags down on an airport floor or in a security line to look for something. Or even being stuck in a window seat, wishing you had something from the overhead compartment.
That’s why I started preparing an airport pouch–a small bag with all the essentials. Using a fanny pack and wearing it across your chest works great, since it allows you to have your passport and boarding ticket easily accessible.
A few other things I recommend packing in your airport pouch:
- Hand lotion and hand sanitizer
- Packets of powdered electrolytes to easily add to a bottle of water after security
- Hair ties and/or clips
- A change of socks and underwear, especially if you’re on a long haul flight
Trust me, this will make your airport experience and your flight so smooth, and once you’re at your destination and through customs, you can toss the pouch into your larger bag.
Preparing for Takeoff
Packing for an international trip doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can actually become a fun part of the trip itself when you use these tips!
These little packing tips for international travel can make all the difference in making your trip smoother, so you can focus more on the adventure and less on the logistics. Safe travels!
