sprout Summary
A list of items to pack for traveling.
Introduction
This list includes a few sections:
- The essentials section includes everything needed for basic survival (assuming you are staying in/near a city). These items should fit comfortably in a backpack.
- The light packing section includes nice-to-haves that will comfortably fit in a carry-on size suitcase or large duffel bag.
- The heavy packing section includes situational or comfort items that will likely need a large checked luggage to fit.
some tips for flying
- See long haul flights for more information.
- Make sure you pack liquids in accordance to the TSA rules.
- If carry-on, all liquids should be in <100ml containers and sealed in a clear bag. Ensure you have easy access to the bag so you can take them out at security.
- Large metal water bottles are perfectly fine but need to be empty until you pass security.
Essentials
- phone/wallet/keys
- extra cash (and a guaranteed way to get currency at destination if not USD)
- phone charger
- travel documents
- passport
- visas/paperwork
- layers
- waterproof windbreaker
- heavier coat
- comfortable clothes to sleep in
- water bottle
- sunscreen
- toiletries
- toothbrush
- toothpaste
- floss
- razor
- skincare
- vision
- contacts
- sunglasses
- glasses
- microfiber cloth
- mini screwdriver
- eyedrops
- plastic/trash bag
- tissues
- hat
- extra pair of socks
Light packing
- noise canceling earbuds/headphones
- power bank
- N+1 sets of clothes, where N is the number of days you’ll be out
- can pack fewer sets if you can do laundry at your destination
- travel pillow
- tech as needed
- personal laptop
- work laptop
- usb-c dongle
- mouse
- towel
- snacks
- hand sanitizer
- bug spray
- lip balm
- umbrella
- belt
Heavy packing
Select from the list below as needed and/or space allows.
- formal wear (dress shoes/pants, suit/shirt/tie)
- extra pair of shoes
- entertainment (books, game consoles, small board/card games, rubiks cubes, etc)
- camera + camera equipment
- keyboard
- first-aid kit
- bandaids
- isopropyl alcohol
- tylenol
- allergy medication
- liquid iv
- extra suitcase/tote bag