one day trip essentials

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What to Pack for a 1-Day Trip: Your Complete Checklist [2023]

June 25, 2023
Weekend Getaway Checklists

The last night of a two week stay on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii.

Are you planning a fun-filled one-day trip but feeling overwhelmed with what to pack? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Our team at Travel Checklist™ has put together an extensive and comprehensive packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a memorable day trip. From essentials to optional items, we've got all the bases covered. So, let's dive right in!

Introduction, essentials for a 1-day trip, optional items, tips for packing, useful links, reference links.

Planning for a day trip can be exciting, but it's essential to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience. Packing efficiently saves you time and hassle, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventure. Our comprehensive packing list will help you pack smartly and avoid any last-minute panic.

Before we get into the optional items, let's start with the essential items you should always include in your day trip packing list:

Day Bag : A spacious and durable day bag is a must-have for carrying all your essentials comfortably. Look for a bag with multiple compartments for easy organization.

Water Bottle : Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you're spending the day outdoors. Opt for a reusable water bottle to stay eco-friendly.

Snacks : Pack some nutritious and energizing snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Granola bars, dried fruits, and nuts are convenient options.

Sunscreen : Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Reapply every few hours, especially if you'll be spending prolonged time in the sun.

Hat and Sunglasses : Shield yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunglasses. These accessories not only provide sun protection but also add a stylish touch to your outfit.

Comfortable Shoes : Opt for comfortable and supportive shoes suitable for the activities you have planned. Whether it's hiking, exploring a city, or strolling on the beach, choose shoes that won't leave you with sore feet.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing : Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust your clothing based on temperature changes throughout the day.

First Aid Kit : It's always a good idea to have a basic first aid kit on hand for minor injuries or headaches. Include items such as band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary prescription medications.

Map or GPS : Depending on your destination, having a map or GPS device can be incredibly helpful. It ensures you don't get lost and allows you to navigate unfamiliar areas with ease.

Phone Charger : Don't forget to bring a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered up throughout the day. You don't want to miss capturing those memorable moments!

Remember, these are just the essentials. Next, let's move on to some optional items that can enhance your day trip experience.

In addition to the essentials, here are some optional items you may consider packing for your day trip:

Camera : If you're a photography enthusiast or want to capture high-quality images, bring along a camera. You can document your adventure and create lasting memories.

Extra Clothes : If you anticipate getting wet or dirty during your day trip, it's wise to pack an extra set of clothes. This ensures you'll have something clean and dry to change into if needed.

Towel or Blanket : A lightweight and compact towel or blanket can come in handy for impromptu picnics, beach visits, or lounging in a park. It adds an element of comfort to your day.

Entertainment : If you have downtime during travel or waiting periods, bring along a book, crossword puzzle, or portable game to keep yourself entertained.

Travel Pillow : If you're planning to nap during the journey or want extra comfort while on the go, a travel pillow can be a game-changer.

Portable Charger : If you'll be using your phone frequently for navigation or taking photos, a portable charger ensures you never run out of battery throughout the day.

Swimwear : If your day trip involves water activities or visiting a beach, pack your swimwear so you can take a refreshing dip.

Remember, these items are optional, and you can customize your packing list based on your preferences and the nature of your day trip. Now that you know what to pack, let's explore some valuable tips for efficient packing.

Make a Checklist : Before you start packing, create a checklist of all the items you plan to bring. This helps you stay organized and prevents you from forgetting anything important.

Roll, Don't Fold : Roll your clothes instead of folding them to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. This packing technique saves room in your bag and makes it easier to find specific items.

Utilize Travel-Sized Toiletries : If you're only going away for one day, opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space in your day bag. Consider using refillable travel bottles for your essentials.

Pack Versatile Clothing : Choose clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched to create different outfits. This way, you can pack fewer clothes while still having a variety of options.

Maximize Bag Space : Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize the space in your day bag. These organizers can help keep your belongings compact and easily accessible.

Check Weight and Size Restrictions : If you're traveling by air or using public transportation, be mindful of weight and size restrictions for luggage. Ensure your day bag meets the requirements to avoid any additional fees or inconvenience.

Leave Room for Souvenirs : If you plan to buy souvenirs or items during your day trip, leave some extra space in your bag to accommodate them on your return journey.

With these tips in mind, you'll be a packing pro for your next one-day trip. Now, let's move on to some frequently asked questions related to packing for short trips.

How do you pack for a one-night trip?

For a one-night trip, follow a similar approach as you would for a day trip, with a few additional items:

An extra set of sleepwear and underwear
Toiletries (daily essentials)
Suitable clothing for the next day
Sleep aids, if necessary (earplugs, eye mask)

Pack everything into a small overnight bag or expand your day bag slightly to accommodate these extra items. Remember to keep it minimal yet sufficient for your needs.

What should I pack for a last-minute trip?

If you have a last-minute trip coming up, focus on the essentials to make the packing process quick and stress-free:

Clothing for each day of the trip (including sleepwear)
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, essential skincare)
Medications and necessary prescriptions
Phone charger and other electronic essentials
Wallet, ID, and travel documents
Day bag or small suitcase
Personal hygiene items (deodorant, comb, etc.)

While it's tempting to pack everything, sticking to the basics ensures you're prepared without unnecessary items.

What all should I pack for my trip?

When packing for any trip, it's crucial to strike a balance between essentials and comfort items. Here are some key items to include:

Clothing suitable for the weather and duration of the trip
Toiletries and personal care items
Medications and first aid essentials
Electronics and chargers
Travel documents and identification
Money, cards, and any necessary currency
Comfort items (pillow, blanket, entertainment)
Day bag or suitcase for carrying everything

Before packing, consider the activities you'll be doing, the duration of your trip, and any specific needs you may have. It's always better to pack light and avoid overpacking.

Now that we've covered the essentials, optional items, and provided packing tips, you're all set for your one-day trip. Have a fantastic time exploring and creating lasting memories!

Travel Checklist™
Amazon – Day Trip Essentials
Amazon – Travel Accessories
Walmart – Travel Essentials
Etsy – Travel Accessories

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/best-places-to-travel-in-2022
https://archive.org/stream/bellsystemtechni12amerrich/bellsystemtechni12amerrich_djvu.txt
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/packing/

[Disclaimer: Our article may contain affiliate links for products mentioned. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.]

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Day Trip Packing List Essentials

Day trips are a great way to explore multiple destinations without changing accommodations. Just hop on a train or join a guided excursion.

But you’ll want to do a few things to prepare for your trip first. Follow the recommendations in this day trip packing list so you don’t forget anything when packing a day bag.

Happy tourists enjoying excursion over European town seeing sights and taking pictures on a day trip

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These bags are day trip essentials

Anti-theft crossbody bag .

When venturing out on my travels for the day, this anti-theft crossbody bag is an absolute must.

I love how the zippers lock shut so that I know that nobody can just slip the zipper open while I’m not paying attention.

There’s also an RFID-blocking compartment to protect your credit cards from electronic identity theft.

This bag is also slash-resistant and the strap is too, making it far less likely that a purse snatcher will be able to easily cut the strap and get away with your bag.

In spite of these helpful features, I still always wear the bag across my body and keep a hand on my bag at all times.

It’s also very lightweight and surprisingly roomy, holding all the essentials you’ll need for your day trip. I also love the sturdy, stain-resistant, and water-repelling material it’s made of.

This way I don’t hesitate to set it on the floor when dining out and wrap the strap around my ankle for safekeeping. I never just drape the strap across the back of my chair.

For more about this purse, read my full Travelon anti-theft crossbody bucket bag review .

5-Point Anti-Theft security system
Locking main compartment with slip pockets and zippered pocket, plus an organization compartment with RFID blocking card and passport slots.
Front slash pocket, zip rear pocket and removable LED light. Will hold a 10” tablet

Backpack

Hubby loves to use his backpack for longer day trips or those when we’re traveling further afield.

Although Jansport no longer makes his exact backpack (it’s lasted him for many years and thousands of miles of travel all over Europe!), it’s very similar to this backpack you can buy on Amazon .

He loves that there’s plenty of room for a jacket, his large camera bag, and any souvenirs we might pick up. Plus, there’s exterior space for a water bottle.

It also doubles as his personal item bag when we travel by plane.

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Shoulder Bag

For shorter day trips or when he doesn’t feel like he needs to carry much, hubby prefers to use his Rick Steves Civita shoulder bag . It’s reasonably priced and comfortable to carry.

Though not as roomy as the bag I swear by (above), it’s a great alternative to a backpack, especially for guys who want a shoulder or crossbody bag that doesn’t look like a purse.

Day trip packing list

When deciding what to pack for a day trip, I usually ask myself these questions:

How far am I traveling from my accommodations?
How long will we be away?
What is the weather like where we’re going? AND what’s the forecast for when we return at the end of the day?

TIP: Keep track of your packing list with this editable travel packing list spreadsheet . Prefer pencil and paper? Grab the printable blank packing lists .

Camera or phone for photos

When hubby’s feeling serious about taking photos on a day trip, he’ll pack his camera bag in his backpack.

Otherwise, we just take our phones. We have never taken better “phone pictures” than we have since we switched to these phones

Portable charger and cable

Make sure your awesome phone doesn’t lose juice while you’re exploring your day trip destination.

I always carry a portable charger just like this one . It’s small and lightweight. Perfect for slipping into your day bag.

Oh, and don’t forget to bring the cable along as well.

Water bottle

Water is one of the most important essentials for your day bag.

I often buy a bottle of water at my departure airport to drink on my flight and then just re-use that for my entire trip.

I tried a collapsible re-usable water bottle, but it just didn’t hold enough.

And some other water bottles are just too heavy to add the weight to a day bag. Or they’re crazy expensive (hello, Hydro Flask).

If you prefer to purchase a re-usable bottle, these are my favorite affordable lightweight water bottles .

Waterproof jacket with a hood (so you don’t need to carry an umbrella)

A lightweight, breathable rain jacket with a hood is a must on a day trip since I hate to carry an umbrella unless I really have to.

With a jacket like this one , you’ll stay dry without trapping heat and making you all sweaty and yucky.

It also packs small…perfect for adding to your travel partner’s backpack if you don’t feel like carrying it yourself (thanks, honey!).

Sunglasses

An inexpensive pair of sunglasses—that you won’t be heartbroken over if they get lost—like these Amazon Choice aviator-style glasses are a good choice for outdoor activity day trips.

Hubby likes to wear clip-on sunglasses over his prescription glasses.

Snacks

I’m one of those people whose blood sugar can just drop like a rock if I don’t eat regularly, so I always travel with healthy snacks to get me through to the next meal when necessary.

These granola bars are a staple in my day bag.

These snacks usually get packed as well.

Apples also make a great day trip snack…and then you don’t have any wrappers to dispose of either.

Guidebook

I recommend you take your guidebook with you so you can refer back to it for dining options and to make sure you don’t miss anything you want to see.

My favorite anti-theft crossbody bag has room to hold a physical guidebook along with my other essential items.

I also love to carry Kindle e-books with me on my phone. Rough Guides excels at formatting their e-book travel guides for Kindle.

Using an e-book also has the added benefit of disguising your identity as a tourist a little bit more than wandering the streets with a physical guidebook in your hands.

Need help finding your perfect travel guide? Read my post on the best travel guidebooks .

Personal care items

Sunscreen .

Keep yourself protected from the sun with this SPF 70 stick sunscreen .

Stick sunscreens are great for taking with you on the go. You don’t have to worry about any leakage in your day bag.

You can also use it for your face, but I don’t like how it feels so I use this SPF 50 sunscreen on my face every single day.

Apply under your makeup before your day trip.

Hand sanitizer

Travel can be dirty. Pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer like this .

Lip balm

Travel can also be dehydrating, so I always pack this lip balm . I can’t use waxy lip balms, and this is the only one that doesn’t break me out.

Hubby loves this lip balm .

Wet wipes, tissues, and toilet seat covers

Travel packs of wet wipes are a good idea to pack depending on where you’re traveling. These are my favorites .

Travel packs of tissues and/or toilet seat covers (again depending on where you’re traveling) make good additions to your day bag.

Miscellaneous first aid

Pack a few first aid items like band-aids, alcohol wipes, and pain relievers just in case.

There’s not much worse than having a bloody scrape or headache intrude upon your amazing day trip experiences.

Tickets for train or attractions/sites

Make sure you have all your tickets with you before you head off on your day trip.

In addition to having digital copies and email confirmations on my phone, I like to print out hard copies of everything.

I love technology, but I don’t trust it to get me into the Vatican Museums at my appointed time, thank you very much.

Spare cash, credit cards, and debit card if you need more cash

I always recommend carrying some cash with you when you travel. Make a stop at a cash machine if you need to and withdraw some additional funds in the local currency.

Cash is handy for small purchases like an occasional coffee or a cheesy souvenir. You may also run into times when credit card readers won’t cooperate.

This can be especially frustrating if you’re trying to buy a train ticket to Versailles…I’m just saying.

In that case, you’ll be thankful you have cash on you as an alternative to waiting in line to purchase your tickets from the attendant at the window.

ID, wallet, keys, etc.

Don’t leave for your day trip without proper identification, medical insurance cards, etc.

We also take color photocopies of all our important travel documents and ID and keep them in separate compartments from the actual items.

Make sure you also don’t leave without your hotel room or Airbnb keys.

Other tips for your day trip

Dress in layers .

Pay close attention to weather forecasts for your day trip destination AND the town where you’re staying.

Depending on how far you’re traveling for your day trip, the weather could be completely different.

You’ll also want to be prepared for the weather when you return, particularly if you have a bit of a distance to walk back to your accommodations.

Dress in layers so that you’ll be prepared for any sudden changes in weather or the possibility that the weather forecast is wrong (impossible!). #sarcasm

Wear the proper shoes

You’ll also need the proper shoes. And I don’t just mean comfortable shoes that won’t leave you in pain at the end of your day.

Don’t be like me and wear flimsy little TOMS at the Forum on a day trip to Rome .

I nearly fell and turned my ankle multiple times because the quite uneven ground really requires shoes with sturdy soles.

If you’re going hiking, you’re going to want good support. I find hiking ankle boots too constricting, so that’s why I wear these hiking shoes .

They’re also waterproof, which is great for me because I’m the kind of person who will walk straight into a puddle because I’m not paying attention to where I’m walking.

Probably because I have my nose in my guidebook.

Confirm all reservations

Take a beat to make sure that your motor coach tour or train tickets are in order and you have the correct date.

Make sure you’ve booked any advance tickets or reservations you need for whatever sites or attractions you’re seeing.

Final thoughts on the day trip packing list

Packing for a day trip can be a lot to think about. But with this packing list , you should have everything you need every time.

No stress. No worries.

What about you? Do you have any other tips for how to pack your day trip bag?

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What to Pack for a 1 Day Trip: 18 Essential Things to pack for a stress-free Travel day

This post may include affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here . Thanks for the support!

We all had those days when you got a day free and you didn’t know what to do, so you jump at the occasion and giddy up for a day trip to a nearby place you always wanted to visit.

But as soon as you start to get ready, a question ponders into your mind, ‘what to pack for a 1 day trip’?

You pack your bag but later you find out you forgot some of your travel essentials, or you pack a bulk load of gear and it becomes hard to move around with them.

What to Pack for a 1 Day Trip?

Day trips are supposed to be fun, and adventurous, and should be there to rejuvenate your mind and body. But one misstep and one may come to regret the decision to go on a day trip.

I know I’ve had those days and it can be extremely stressful! So here is the day trip packing list I’ve been following that has kept my day trips burdenless .

Day Trip Packing List Essentials

1. Snacks and Munchies

They are the first things on my mind the minute I start packing for a day trip. I usually pick out 2-3 packets of tangy flavored crips and some chocolates too.

When I’m in a car or on a train I usually eat them and I know they are not good for health but they just taste sooo good!

You can buy some energy bars or pack some easy-to-make food from home like paneer bhurji if you don’t eat fast food.

2. 2 Separate Outfits

One for nighttime! One for the next morning!

I think this is an underrated day trip packing list essential.

Traveling can be pretty tiring and it can get hot and sweaty, especially in the summer. You don’t wanna get to your bed in those sweaty garments. Carry a comfy T-shirt and a pajama for the night.

…And putting on a fresh pair of clothes in the morning can lift up your mood.

3. Keys and IDs

Do not forget them!!! I learned it the hard way when I went to Jamta .

After you lock the door, put the keys somewhere where you have your toothbrush stored, like in your toiletry bag .

Always keep your IDs in your wallet .

4. Shoes and Flip-flops

Put on some comfortable shoes because you’re going to be in them for the majority of the day.

If you have old, torn-up shoes whose soles are about to come off, do not take them! Do not wear them!

As I told you, you are going to wear them for most of the day, so grab some sturdy shoes with good ankle support and wearing comfortable shoes has health benefits too.

The same goes for your flip-flops.

These waterproof shoe bags have helped me a lot during my travels as they are sturdy and easy to carry.

5. Toiletry Bag

I always pack a toiletry bag with all the essentials like toothbrushes, combs, nail cutters, toothpaste, hand sanitizers, etc.

They are the basics of keeping one’s hygiene and appearance in check.

This multi-purpose toiletry bag is a great one in my opinion!

6. Sunscreen

Next on the packing list for one day trip is the sun repellant or sunscreen .

Nowadays, because of climate change and the depletion of the ozone layer, the UV rays from the sun can have some pernicious effects on your skin and health. Therefore, having sunscreen in your travel bag has become a must.

Moreover, there are many other reasons why you should apply sunscreen to your body.

You should go for this SPF50 PA++++ grade sunscreen , which is loaded with vitamins A, B, E, and F, which nourishes and hydrates your skin.

7. Deodorant and Perfume

A good-smelling person becomes substantially more attractive in my opinion. I am a sucker for piquant fragrances and I always carry a pocket deodorant wherever I go irrespective of my travel duration.

8. Medicines and First-aid Kit

They are one of the most important things to pack for a day trip.

Forgetting or missing a dose can put your health at risk, so get a thorough check on your medications and I personally go through them again when I’m leaving.

Store this small first aid kit in all your bags and suitcases and forget them. No matter where you go or which activity you take part in, you might need it if any mishap occurs.

9. Soft Towels

Try to carry soft towels, especially hand towels because they are lightweight, easily foldable, and do not feel coarsely on your skin.

10. Spare cash, Wallet, and ATM Cards

As mentioned above stash your IDs as well as ATM cards in your wallet and don’t rely on just the cards. Some places do not have ATMs, so stash some cash in the wallet also.

Use a slim wallet like this one as they are easy to handle, and light, and you can store your cards, passports, and cash effortlessly.

11. Phone and Charger

I don’t think I need to explain this point!

12. Reusable Water Bottle

Avoid buying those cheap one-time-use only plastic bottles you get from railway stations and bus stands. Get a high-quality collapsible water bottle or preferably a thermo-steel bottle ( I recommend this one ) for the sustainability of the environment.

Moving further with what to pack for a 1 day trip…

13. Headphones

Well, headphones may not be on the top of things to pack for a day trip list for many people but are must-haves for me.

Walking, roaming, and exploring a new place with some dope beats or ambient music ringing in my ears is the best feeling for me.

14. Backpack

Think of your backpack as your friend. Anything you require, just reach out your hand and you shall have it.

That sounded more like a magical backpack…

A 15-inch backpack can go a long way to making your day trip satisfying. It might look like that’s a lot of stuff but you can effortlessly pack all the above things in a backpack. How convenient!

And it is a way to pack stuff efficiently .

Voluntary Things to Pack for a Day Trip

pen and paper, sunglasses, camera, binoculars and much more

1. Power Bank

Power banks are not necessary if you’re carrying a charger with you. But if you forget to charge your smartphone at night and are unable to find a charging plug on your travel, they can be useful.

I personally use a 10000 mAh battery power bank . It lasts for up to 3-4 days once fully charged.

2. Soaps and Shampoos

I mean… which hotels and resorts don’t provide these basic things on your stay in them, but if you apply special kinds of soaps and shampoos or you just like to be fully prepared for your day trip, then please carry them.

I take pictures with my phone. But you can bring a camera or a GoPro to capture those travel memories in the most beautiful way.

4. Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a great way to boost your appearance and style. Wear them on the beach, sunbathe, and have fun!

I’m in love with these glasses . They go well with my face shape and are high quality as well.

What do you Think of This Packing List for One Day Trip?

I’ve listed down all the essential things to pack for a day trip that I personally carry on my travels! So you don’t have to worry about what to pack for a 1 day trip. Tell me if I have missed anything in this packing list for one day trip. And what do you carry for a day trip? in the comments section below!

15 simple tips to pack your luggage efficiently

2 thoughts on “What to Pack for a 1 Day Trip: 18 Essential Things to pack for a stress-free Travel day”

Thank you for this list, I always forget my power bank ,I added it to my packing list!

Thanks Rose. It’s a great one!

How to Pack a Day Trip Bag — the Fast and Easy Way

By: Author Ginny Vail

Posted on Published: 12 February 24 - Last updated: 23 February 24

Home » Resources » Gear » How to Pack a Day Trip Bag — the Fast and Easy Way

Do you love taking day trips? Do you like traveling light and also like being well prepared? With our day trip bag checklist and a small prepacked essentials kit, you can do both.

Day tripping is one of the best parts of traveling and this is partly because we leave our luggage behind and often have just a small day bag. I love being able to go sightseeing or hiking with only a small backpack and maybe my big camera. But I also want to balance traveling light with being well prepared.

Two things help me quickly pack my day bag and feel confident that while I don’t have much to carry, I do have items I might need. The downloadable checklist (linked below) reminds me to pack things like camera gear, binoculars, and a sunhat. I also have a small Ziplock bag prepacked and always ready in my day bag. It’s full of small items like sunscreen, a nail file, bandaids, aspirin, and electrolyte packets. It’s my Day Trip Essentials Kit, and it can help smooth out small annoyances and sometimes even save the day.

You might also find a day trip kit helpful for spending time outside the airport on a long layover , or a day exploring a new port city during a cruise, or hiking in the middle of a city !

Here’s what’s in this article:

A downloadable day bag checklist to remind you to pack important items like camera accessories or a sun hat.
Suggestions for creating a small inexpensive, pre-packed day trip essentials kit for your day bag.
Suggestions for creating a really tiny first aid kit to include in your pre-packed day trip essentials kit.
Discover safety tips for day trips .

A day tripper wearing a day trip bag is standing before the Great Buddha in Kamakura.

Organizing a Day Bag for a Day Trip

So, you’re heading out on a day trip and you’ll likely be away from your lodging for several hours. Maybe you’re checking out ancient rock art in Australia’s Kakadu National Park or taking a boat to Skellig Michael off the coast of Ireland. No matter where you’re going, it’s easier if you travel light, and it’s also great to have things with you that you might need.

A day trip check list and a small day bag with items typically packed in a day bag.

Making sure you have the things you want or need is more likely if you have a day trip check list to remind you. Download ours, if you wish, and customize it to suit your needs.

The packed day bag essentials kit, which is a one-quart bag filled with small but useful items for any day trip.

Creating a Small Day Trip Essentials Kit

I save time by assembling small things I might need on a day trip, or any long outing, into a one-quart Ziploc bag. The kit goes in my daypack along with anything I want from the Day Bag Packing List. My kit is 8 x 6 x 1.5-inches (20 cm x 15 cm x 4 cm) and weighs 11.4 oz (323 g). Since I always keep my ID, cash and cards in my money belt, and my smart phone in my pocket, I don’t need anything else. I’m hands-free and good to go.

Display of suggested contents for a prepacked Day Trip Essentials kit, which makes organizing a daypack fast and easy.

I seldom use more than a few items on any given trek, but these items are small, cheap, and take little space. With a pre-packed kit, I don’t need to scramble to get my day bag organized for an early excursion. Just knowing I have things I might need (like sunscreen or insect repellent) makes my day more enjoyable.

A tiny 3 x 4-inch first aid kit with basics like aspirin, Alka Seltzer, alcohol pads, and assorted band aids.

A Perfect First Aid Kit for Day Trippers

The Mini First Aid kit has a ridiculous amount of stuff but it’s only 3.25 x 4 inches (8.25 cm x 10 cm) and weighs almost nothing. Even so, it holds items that can save the day if you get a splinter or blister or maybe serious heartburn from lunch.

True story: My husband and I were walking toward the cathedral in Koln, Germany, and I tripped on an uneven sidewalk and fell. My camera, which was hanging around my neck, smacked my face and cut my nose. Items in the tiny First Aid kit, cleaned and patched me up enough to continue sightseeing.

You might notice that the assortment of over-the-counter pills are individual servings in sealed packets. I find these in convenience or liqueur stores and prefer them because they are sealed and have “use by” dates. It just feels more trustworthy if you happen to share them with a fellow traveler whose day would be better if they just had an aspirin or a bandaid.

Day Trip Packing List for Day Excursions

We created a checklist for our own use, and you can download a PDF copy below. The checklist is actually two lists on one sheet; it has all of the things in our pre-packed Day Trip Essentials kit and an expanded version of the day bag list below:

Mini Day Trip Essentials kit (which includes the tiny first aid kit)
Camera gear: Spare battery & SD card, polarizing filter, camera hood, remote shutter release
Glasses (sunglasses & reading glasses)
Maps, guides & tickets
Snacks (Kind bars are our go-to)
Water bottle
Clothing for hot, cold, or rainy weather: Hat, coat, jacket, fleece, rain poncho, umbrella, gloves

The list helps make sure you’ve included whatever clothing, camera gear, or other gear you’ll wish you had on a specific trip. After boarding the train for a day in Monet’s Garden in Giverny, it’s too late to remember you really meant to bring a sun hat.

A display of all of the items listed on the one-day trip packing list that you might take depending on the weather.

Customize the Mini Essentials Kit

Create your own Day Trip Essentials kit to suit your own needs. My day bag checklist is pretty standard, but the contents in the essentials kit are unique to me and have evolved over time. Here are the reasons for some of the odd bits:

The Croakie eyeglass strap is an item I added after losing my favorite sunglasses on the Katoomba Mine Train in Australia.
The bathroom kit helps when the only facility available is less than desirable.
The Electro Mix turns a bottle of water into an energy drink, with Potassium.

Young man wearing his best daypack while walking the Labyrinth at Lands End in San Francisco.

Choosing the Best Day Bag for Day Tours

Jim swears by his little black backpack by Eddie Bauer
My favorite is the Outlander Packable Lightweight Travel Hiking DayPack

The Eddie Bauer comes with a rock-solid lifetime guarantee. When Jim’s 5 year old day pack suffered a broken zipper, he brought it back to a store and exchanged it for the latest model, no questions asked. You really can’t beat that kind of customer service.

My best day bag is an Outlander Packable Lightweight Travel Hiking DayPack. It’s small, lightweight, washable, and its 7 pockets keep things in place, so everything doesn’t go straight to the bottom of the bag. It also has elastic loops on the side mesh pockets to secure water bottles, and my smartphone tripod. The Outlander folds neatly into its 7 x 7-inch (18 x 18 cm) interior pocket.

Safety on Day Trips

Crowded cities and major tourist sites are a magnet for pickpockets and other thieves and scams. And that’s true in many parts of the world. Most of us travelers manage to avoid being harmed or robbed by taking a few precautions.

Here Are Ways to Keep Yourself and Your Possessions Safe When Day Tripping

Protect yourself:

Always be aware of your surroundings and even more so in crowded cities and tourist spots.
Avoid empty streets and alleys, especially late at night.
Avoid excessive alcohol or other drugs. You need your wits about you.
When crossing streets, know which way traffic flows and look both ways. Crossing a road when it’s clear on your right can be deadly in a country where traffic drives on the left.

Protect your personal stuff:

Keep the location of your valuables a secret by carrying a small amount of money in a front pocket for small purchases and donations.
Keep major money, credit cards, and passport in an RFID proof money belt or similarly, hidden-away device.
Avoid putting valuables in your day bag. If you do need to put keys or other valuables in your bag, pin them to the inside bottom of the bag with a carabiner clip or safety pin.
If you have a large, expensive camera, carry it on a crossbody strap, preferably in a protective camera bag.
Avoid wearing expensive or even expensive-looking jewelry.
When in crowded places, carry your day bag on your chest, rather than your back.

True Story: While standing across the street from La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, a woman came up and said “a man just unzipped your backpack; you should wear it on your chest instead.” Sure enough, the middle pocket was unzipped. But the pocket picker must have been disappointed because he didn’t take my Best of Spain book, which was the only thing in the pocket.

For overall travel safety see How to Travel Safely .

The Day Tripping Kit Works for Other Outings Too

I keep my small day trip bag packed all the time and use it for outings like taking my grandkids to the zoo or aquarium. In addition to the essentials kit, my day bag always has a windbreaker and sunhat.

Taking the Essentials Kit Through Airport Security

When flying, if you take your essentials kit on the plane, remember to move any liquids to a plastic bag for screening. In 2023, this was still a requirement at some airports. In May 2023, the airport in Athens Greece was still screening liquids, and several people in the security line were unprepared. They had to step out of line and remove all liquids from their carry-on bags. They were pretty stressed about it.

The Day Trip Essentials Kit is like an emergency kit. It contains many things you hopefully won’t need, but it can save the day if you do need an item or two. It takes little time and costs very little to build a kit — customized just for you. Plus, a Day Bag Packing List can help you remember to add other items to your day bag, so you have everything you need and not much you don’t.

Author bio: Ginny Vail is a travel writer, who loves sightseeing, photography, and videography. She’s been to 45 countries across six continents and traveled by air, car, bus, train, boat, and ship. Her articles can help you discover places to go, sights to see, and details about when and how to visit them.

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50+ Essentials Items for Your Day Pack

This family packing list for day packs has everything you might need for a day trip, a short hike, or when using your day pack as a carry-on for planes or trains. We’ll cover family-focused medical supplies, essential gear, comfort items, as well as what the kids should carry in their travel day packs.

For our Family Year Out we are packing two large backpacks (adults), and 4 small day packs or carry-ons, one for each member of the family.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. All our recommendations are our own and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of this post Download a Free Packing Checklist for Day Packs!

Table of Contents

Family Packing List for Day Packs

Here’s our family packing list for day packs for a few weeks or even one year on the road. We are starting our Family Gap Year with a two month cross-country road trip so we’ll be hiking with these backpacks through many National Parks.

Our day packs are with us on car trips and bus rides, they are our carry-ons on airplanes and our go-to for day trips and long outings. Since our girls are young (4 and 6) we will be carrying most of the gear for all of us.

Some of these items may move in and out of the day pack depending on our plan for the day. While on a plane we will have our iPads and headphones, we would obviously leave these in the hotel if going for a day hike.

There are several items like the corkscrew, or the knife in the travel cutlery set, that you need to remove from your day pack before boarding an airplane.

Planning a family year out is a huge undertaking- for more tips on how to get started read How to Plan a Family Year Out .

Packing List: Adult Day Pack

Here is the packing list for the total items in our day packs. Since there are two of us, some of these items are split between us, or we may just pack one bag for a day trip with all the essentials.

Don’t Miss our full packing list for long-term travel – it’s so hard to decide what to bring and what to leave!

Our Favorite Adult Travel Day Packs

Adult backpacks- women’s travel day pack.

I carry the Gregory Maya 30L – I’m only 5’3″, so this feels plenty big to me. I wanted something I could comfortably stuff under an airline seat, and not need to put in the overhead bin.

I have it in Meridian Teal, and I love the color. I like having a bright inside (the yellowish-green accent color), it makes it easier to find things. It has a stretchy front stuff sack pocket with a top clip.

This pack has two water bottle pockets, a zipped sunglasses pocket, and a neat little sunglasses clip on the strap. It has a separate pocket for a water bladder, that I plan to use for my laptop.

Inside the main compartment, there’s a small zip pocket at the top. It has an internal frame, a padded waist belt, and each side of the belt has a small zip pocket.

Adult Backpacks- Men’s Travel Day Pack

Waker carries the Osprey Farpoint 40L . He’s 6’2″, so he likes this size, even for a day pack. This pack has two stretchy water bottle holders on the back of the pack (not on the sides). These could also be general stuff sacks.

It has a top and side padded handle- so if you want to carry this pack with one hand horizontally, you can do that.

He has this in Volcanic Grey, which has a stoplight green interior- again, easy to see what’s inside. It has a sunglasses pocket, then the main compartment has a velcro laptop sleeve, and a large zippered pocket that goes to the base of the pack.

It has a padded waist belt, but no additional pockets there. An interesting feature of this backpack is that you can tuck and stash the main shoulder straps and waist belt under a velcro flap. This allows you to check the bag and not worry about straps catching on airline belts.

Important Documents & Technology

1. passport holder.

Our family passport holder keeps our passports, vaccination documents, global entry cards, and extra passport photos all neatly contained. I also keep photocopies of the girl’s birth certificates in here.

It also holds a pen in the middle for all those pesky customs and immigration forms. I keep this zipped folder pretty close to me when we are moving around!

2. Documents & Tickets

Make sure to pack whatever confirmation numbers, addresses, tickets, or local destination information you need for the next day or two. If you are headed out on a hike you may want to grab a paper map of the park to carry with you.

3. Wallet and Coin Purse

When traveling I only keep one debit card and one credit card on me, the rest stay tucked away for emergencies. I carry a small change purse for all the hard currency.

4. Cell Phone

Of course, keep your cell phone close at hand- it’s your map, camera, connection to the outside world, and if you use the Tripit app, holds all your travel details!

5. Portable Cell Charger

This portable cell phone charger is small and means I never worry about my cell phone running out of battery power. No more being tethered to charging banks in airports watching the battery percentage slowly tick up one percentage point at a time.

I depend on my Macbook Air for blogging, backing up my cell phone photos, and researching and booking destinations. I keep it on me when checking luggage.

7. Headphones

After too many long flights where my in-ear headphones made my ears ache, I got over-the-ear headphones , and I love them!

They are not the smallest item to pack but are much more comfortable for long periods of time. Now when I’m binge-watching tv on a long-haul flight, I get better sound, noise-canceling, and better comfort.

These are Bluetooth and pair easily with my laptop. We choose these because they are a great value- when we are traveling I hate the idea of carrying around a lot of expensive gear if we can possibly avoid it.

Comfort and Leisure Items

8. sunglasses.

My Knockaround sunglasses are always close at hand! We even got super cute pairs for the kids . The sunglasses come in lots of fun color combinations, and they stay on my face- glasses that slip down when I bend my head are a huge pet peeve of mine.

9. Playing Cards

A standard deck of playing cards is great for long waits in airports and train stations.

10. Small Notebook & Pen

A small notepad is great for keeping score at cards, jotting down quick notes to myself, or other traveler’s recommendations.

11. Sweater

Because AC always makes me cold, I always carry layers.

12. Rain Jacket

If we are headed out on a hike, a rain jacket for each of us goes in the pack just in case the weather decides to surprise us!

13. Travel Towel

This travel towel is a beach towel, a picnic blanket, and a wrap for chilly arms and legs all rolled into one.

It’s super high quality and soft. It can be a shower towel in a pinch, but best for the beach, or cuddles while traveling.

14. Travel Hairbrush

This flip travel hairbrush is small, lightweight, and works well for unexpected hair emergencies. Like my daughter accidentally dipping her hair in ketchup.

15. Hair Clips & Bands

There are three of us with long hair, and hair clips are always falling out. Extra accessories hopefully help to keep hair pulled back and out of food.

16. Eye Mask

An eye mask helps me sleep in a car, or on a bus or train. I have this one, the girls have their own cute versions with character faces.

I always carry a pair of socks to help me get cozy on a plane. Personally, I’m a huge fan of Bombas .

After visiting Japan, we also like to pack toe socks for planes- your feet stay warm, but you can easily slip on flip flops to visit the plane bathroom.

Medical Supplies

This list may seem long, but most of these items are quite small, and with small kids, these come in quite handy!

I keep most of these items in a small zip pouch that can easily be moved from one backpack to another, or into my purse. We carry a more complete first aid kit in our large backpacks.

18. Neosporin

Antibiotic ointment for small cuts and scrapes.

19. Bandaids

These may or may not be decorated with princesses at the moment. We like the thicker kind which seems to stick better.

20. Moleskin

Moleskin is fantastic for keeping blisters at bay! Put a square of this any place your foot is rubbing against your shoe to prevent blisters. Band-aids are great for scrapes, but they fall off of heels and get twisted up in socks. These come in large pieces, I precut them so they are ready to use on small feet.

21. Bruise Lotion

We put Arnica lotion on all our bruises, it should help them heal faster and be less severe.

22. Tick Remover

This little gadget is helpful for removing ticks. A common occurrence in New England.

23. After Bite Lotion

This liquid goes on bug bites and stops the itch and the sting! One bottle of this lasts forever.

24. Chewable Advil

These are for kids 2+, they are chewable tablets that are much easier to carry than liquid. For when your kid suddenly pops a fever, with these you don’t have to wait until you can get back to your room to treat it.

25. Electrolyte Powder

This powder comes in packets to add to 16 oz of water. They make them in many flavors, we have Strawberry Lemonade. Mix these with water to rehydrate quickly after vomiting, diarrhea, or heat exhaustion.

26. Kleenex

The all-purpose mom tool- for noses, spills, and when toilet paper is not available.

27. Hand Sanitizer

The ubiquitous item of 2021! Before every snack, and every time we enter or leave someplace.

28. Chapstick

Chapstick is one of my essential “desert island” items- I hate having dry lips.

29. Sun Lotion

We are all fair-skinned, so we apply liberally and often! We are looking into getting some reef-safe lotion, which unfortunately is not common in the United States.

30. Bug Spray

For moderate climates, we use family-friendly, non-DEET spray that I don’t worry about applying to the kids’ skin. For more intense malaria zones, we spray our clothes with Permethrin .

Food, Water and Snacks

Snacks are an essential day-pack item- they stave off the grumpies and are great motivators on hikes. “Let’s just get to the top of the hill and we’ll stop for a snack”.

Snacks are also a life-saver when planes or trains run late and you’re off your normal food schedule.

When traveling internationally we grab snacks and breakfast items from the nearest grocery or market at each location. When traveling in the United States via car, we can stock up ahead of time. Don’t miss our list of over 40 healthy and easy road trip snacks for kids and toddlers .

32. Wet Wipes and Bathing Wipes

Bathing wipes are really a camping supply, but they come in handy after a sweaty hike, or if someone ends up covered in mud or something sticky. Bathing wipes are much thicker and more durable than your standard Wet Wipes, which are great for cleaning up after meals or messy snacks.

33. Travel Cutlery Set

I hate eating with flimsy plastic utensils, and it just feels wasteful. We carry our own travel cutlery sets, and never have to worry about having the right flatware for picnics or takeout.

This cutlery set is beautiful and quite complete. Each set comes with a knife, fork, spoon, chopsticks, metal straw, and straw cleaning brush.

Just remember to remove the knife if you are carrying this onto a plane! The set is a bit heavier than I would like, but they are made of stainless steel and should last. There are many colors to choose from, ranging from silver or black to rainbow.

34. Bottle Opener/Corkscrew

We always keep a combination bottle opener and corkscrew handy (make sure to remove before carrying onto an airplane). Whether it’s a bottle of wine on a picnic or a pop-top bottle of sparkling water this tool is essential.

35. Water Bottle

We opt for inexpensive water bottles without any fancy filters. If we aren’t sure about the quality of the water, we use the Steripen. I have a simple Contigo water bottle, the girls both have Camelbaks .

36. Water Purifier

We use the Steripen Ultra to purify any water we have questions about. This device is small and very portable. To use it, you pull off the cover, turn the lamp on, and stir it in the water for 90 seconds. A little counter lets you know when it’s finished.

We opted for the Ultra version because it is rechargeable via a USB port. We didn’t want to worry about replacing batteries or have the added weight of traditional batteries in the classic. The ultra is 4.8 oz, they also have an ultralight version which is 2.6 oz.

Other Items to Consider

37. binoculars.

I love having a pair of binoculars! I’ve used mine on an African safari, and to spot birds in the Guatemalan jungle. They come in handy for tons of bucket list adventures !

I have these from Bushnell- they are 10 x 25, meaning the magnification is 10x, the diameter of the lens is 25mm. They are compact, lightweight (just over 10oz), easy to carry, and waterproof. The next step up is a 42 mm lens , but the weight on those jumps up to 25 oz.

38. Flashlight

A generally useful tool. For finding lost hair clips in the car at night, or even routing through backpacks looking for a change of clothes while trying to keep the kids asleep.

39. Headlamp

Headlamps are great for long walks at night and when you want to keep your hands free. They can also be used for reading in bed at night without keeping everyone else up.

Packing List: Kid’s Day Pack

Since our girls weigh approx. 40 and 50 pounds, they should not be carrying more than 4 or 5 pounds each (max of 10% of their body weight). They will be carrying their own day packs on travel days when we are moving between locations.

For day trips and long hikes, they will not need to carry anything. We see these packs as a way for them to learn to take responsibility for some of their belongings and to prepare them for when they are old enough for an “everyone carries their own stuff” model of travel.

Need more tips for traveling with kids?

Read our best family travel tips, or if you’re heading out on a road trip, check out our best road trip travel tips .

Favorite Kids Travel Backpacks

We spent a lot of time researching which backpacks to get the girls (ages almost 4 and 6). We wanted something practical with two water bottle pockets, and a stuff sack on the outside. They also needed to have supportive straps, to hold as much as possible, but still fit their small frames. Ideally, they would have some room to grow and also not be too expensive.

E (4) has the REI Tarn 18 . She has been carrying a 12L pack to school and it’s been frustrating how little it holds. This 18-liter pack is a tad big on her, but she will grow into it quickly.

It has a front stuff sack pocket with a clip, two water bottle pockets, and a padded waist belt with a zip pocket on each side. It has a top sunglass pocket, a small zip pocket inside, and a hydro sleeve she can use for her iPad. This is a great pack, I wish they made a 20 liter as well!

Deuter Speed Lite 20 Packpack daypack for kids

S (6 1/2) has the Deuter Speed Lite 20 . It has a stuff sack on the front, though you can’t unclip it from the top, you have to reach in on each side. It has two water bottle pockets and a top sunglasses pocket.

The inside has a hydro sleeve she can use for her iPad, but no other pockets. There is a waist belt but it is not padded.

We chose this pack because the dimensions worked best for her body while still giving her plenty of room inside. Many of the 20L packs we looked at were much too long for her.

Kids Comfort and Leisure Items

40. kids sunglasses.

We got the kids their own pairs of Knockarounds . E chose pink glitter frames with a gold-tinted lens, S chose a pink frame with aqua lenses. I know their eyes are protected by UV400 lenses, but they are inexpensive enough that I don’t have to worry too much about how rough the kids are with their gear.

41. Sun Hat

Each girl has a baseball hat to wear when we need to keep the hot sun off of them. These are going to get a lot of use when we are trekking around Arizona and New Mexico in August. We also found lightweight, foldable sunhats in Vietnam.

42. Sea-Bands

S has shown signs of motion sickness at times, so we got each girl a pair of Sea-Bands . These are soft cloth bands that have a little plastic button that hits a pressure point on the underside of the wrist to help with nausea.

They run small, so buy the adult size for anyone over 2. They come in a plastic carrying case, so they are easy to pack in day packs. These bands are one of our road trip essentials .

43. Kids Sweater

Because we all need an extra layer sometimes. As we move into Fall we’ll add a pair of knit gloves.

Kids Schoolwork and Craft Items

44. ipad or tablet.

iPads are for schoolwork first and foremost, though we do allow some fun downtime on educational apps like PBS Kids, and the occasional movie or show.

45. Kids Headphones

Headphones are critical for each kid to be able to do schoolwork online separately, and without disturbing the adults! S has Lil Gadgets headphones- they are wireless with a mic and sharing port. E has a wired pair of JLab Jbuddies headphones, hers do not have a unique sharing port, but she can plug into S’s headphones when they want to look at something together.

We’ve updated our top picks for kids headphones, we’ve tried many pairs!

Along with programs on the iPad, each girl has an age-appropriate school workbook to work on letters or creative writing skills.

46. Kids Writing Journal

Each girl has a blank journal with room for writing and pictures- to document our trips and work on their handwriting skills.

47. Pencils, Colored Pencils & Sharpener

Writing instruments to go with their journals and school workbooks.

48. Postcards

Writing postcards to family and friends is one of the ways we are practicing handwriting skills, but also keeping in touch with those we will miss. Don’t forget to buy the correct stamps when you buy the postcards.

Writing postcards is one of our recommended road trip activities for kids- we’ve got lots of suggestions from sing-alongs to craft projects.

Other Kids Items to Consider

49. kids binoculars.

Both girls love having their own binoculars ! They are great on hikes, but also for looking out of windows on buses or trains. They love to play camping and Explorer with these.

50. Extra Set of Clothes

Carrying an extra set of clothes in each pack means that we are prepared for any spills or accidents. Also, if our luggage is delayed or lost, each child would have at least one spare outfit.

51. Kids Pajamas

Each child carries their own pajamas so they are always available. They may opt to wear them on planes or long bus rides. If we get to a destination late in the evening they have everything they need to get themselves ready for bed quickly.

52. Stuffie and Nighttime Comfort Item

Each child is responsible for their stuffed animal and night-time comfort items. This means they have them readily available on trains and planes and need to look after them in hotel rooms as well.

There You Have It: Packing List for Day Packs

Our packing list for day packs for kids and for adults for long-term travel. Did we miss something? We always love hearing your suggestions.

Read Next: Everything you need for a family road trip !

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

Dress Shirts
Casual Shirts
Sweatshirts
Laundry Kit
Leisure Shoes
Hiking Boots
Dress Shoes
Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

Dental Floss
Conditioner
Styling Tools
Facial Cleanser
Face Lotion
Moisturizer
Contact Lenses
Contact Solution
Shaving Supplies
Makeup Remover
Menstrual Products
Birth Control/Medication
Nail Clippers
Hand Sanitizer
First-Aid Ointment
Insect Repellent
Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

Laptop/Tablet
Film/Memory Card
List of Medications
Banking Contacts/Information
Electronic Chargers
Emergency Contacts
Copy of Passport
Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

Books or E-Books
Travel Blanket
Travel Pillow
Disinfecting Wipes
Change of Clothes
Empty Water Bottle
In-Flight Medications
Passport/Visa/ID
Credit/ATM cards
Insurance Cards
Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

Close up of person reading the SmarterTravel Ultimate Packing List on their phone while packing a suitcase

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

10 Secrets I Learned Working in a Hotel

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Packing Lists

22 Essentials for Your Next Solo Trip, According to T+L Editors

From portable chargers to door locks, here's what you need for the best — and safest — solo travel.

In This Article

Tips for Solo Travel

Frequently asked questions.

Why Trust T+L

Travel & Leisure / Kevin Liang

One of the most delightful — and daunting — aspects of solo travel is that you’re in charge of everything. Much like how you get to choose wherever and whenever you eat and sleep or can opt to relax rather than rush to sightsee each day, you also determine what objects are worthy of making the journey with you.

Packing for such a trip embodies the ethos of solo travel itself: While it’s nice to leave a little wiggle room (be it in your itinerary or for souvenirs), it also pays to be prepared. Ensuring you have everything you need to set the baseline for a safe and enjoyable trip ultimately allows you more flexibility in your day-to-day decisions. Plus, when traveling alone, there’s no one else to blame (or borrow from) if you forget your universal charger or toothpaste at home.

We’ve rounded up T+L editor-approved, tried-and-true packing essentials for safer, more comfortable, and convenient solo trips. Use this guide when you’re gearing up for your next getaway — and don’t forget your general essentials as well, such as your passport and any necessary visas or vaccination cards.

Best Portable Door Lock

Addalock the original portable door lock.

We love that this lock is easy to install (once you get the hang of it) and doesn’t require any tools to set up. "I get wigged out by how easy it is to break through many hotel doors. This tiny lock basically adds an extra deadbolt to make sure no one gets through," says T+L senior commerce editor Lydia Price . "I love the handy carrying pouch it comes in so that the hard metal won't damage anything else in your bag."

Best Door Alarm

Lewis n clark travel door alarm.

As an added level of safety whether you're at a hotel, hostel, or home rental, pack the Lewis N Clark Travel Door Alarm, "It works with most hotel and rental doors and windows and it'll make a loud noise if the alarm is triggered, which will wake you up and alert anyone else in earshot that something is amiss," Price said. It's incredibly light and compact, so it's easy to bring with you wherever you go.

Best Personal Safety Device

Birdie personal safety alarm.

Personal safety alarms are invaluable protection for solo travelers and offer peace of mind while out walking alone, especially at night. “Personal alarms are great for added peace of mind and this is the most subtle and stylish, one I’ve ever seen,” T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker shared. “I’ve held it in my hand while walking on a semi-busy street after dark, but I’ll keep it clipped onto a belt bag or backpack in certain destinations (so I can easily yank the alarm part off as needed). Note: I did this while unpacking once and, let’s just say, I won’t forget the sound — and flashing strobe light — anytime soon.”

Best Travel Purse

Lululemon everywhere belt bag 1l.

For safeguarding your passport, money, or other important travel documents, you'll want a secure travel purse like this one from Lululemon. "This bag is small but still fits a deceptive amount. I like to wear this across my chest when traveling alone so I keep my belongings close," Parker said. "There's even a zippered pocket on the back that fits a phone along with credit cards and cash if I don't want to open up and rustle through the main compartment on the go." The adjustable strap makes it easy to change the length for a tight and comfortable fit around the waist or across the upper body.

Best Hotspot Router

Glocalme 4g lte mobile hotspot.

As much as we all would love to “go off the grid” a bit more, it’s less relaxing than it sounds—and sometimes outright dangerous —when you find yourself somewhere with limited WiFi and no way to contact friends or family. “If I'm traveling overseas and don't have access to my phone plan, a mobile hotspot is essential for staying on the grid while flying solo,” T+L associate commerce editor Anna Popp said. “It gives me so much peace of mind knowing I have access to the internet 24/7 in case there isn't WiFi readily available.” Mobile hotspots are also great for digital nomads who may find themselves working from remote areas with limited internet access.

Best Portable Charger

Charmast small portable charger.

Running out of phone battery in an unfamiliar place is one of Popp's biggest fears while traveling alone so she never leaves the house without this ultra-compact phone charger. "This charger is so small that it can fit in my pocket or a compact purse, which makes it easy to bring anywhere from museums to concerts," she shared. "I love that it has an iPhone charging port built-in so all I have to do is plug the charger into my phone without having to deal with cords or a bulky charging pad."

Best Headphones

Jbl tune 710bt wireless over-ear headphones.

"As an introvert and a lover of solo travel, a good reliable pair of noise-canceling headphones is a must for me. I have this pair from JBL and I bring them on every flight," T+L senior commerce editor Jasmine Grant said. "They're great at tuning out disruptive noises on a flight, but I also use them wirelessly in between destinations. The foam of the ear muffs is cushiony and comfy, and I also appreciate the long battery life on these things." With an impressive 50-hour battery, these headphones are perfect for listening to music or podcasts for the entire duration of your solo trip.

Best Tripod

Geometrical pocket tripod.

"One of the hardest things when traveling alone is taking photos without asking for a stranger's help, so I keep this little lifesaver in my wallet at all times — even at home," Parker said, referring to this handy mini tripod. "It comes with inserts so you can perfectly fit any phone or phone case, and it helps you prop up your device so you can grab landscape or portrait shots. The tilt angle can easily be adjusted and I've balanced it on rocks, sand, and window ledges and got excellent timer shots (or use this remote , another solo travel essential)." Best of all, the tripod folds flat like a credit card, so it can even fit in your pocket.

Best Zipper Lock

Bobino zipper clip.

Utilizing a zipper lock can keep your items safe and provide you extra comfort when you're on the go. "You can attach [the Bobino Zipper Clip] to any bag or purse with a zipper to make it hard for pickpockets to open them," Price said. "It gives me extra peace of mind when I'm in crowds or wearing a backpack anywhere. I'm also hopeful it can deter thieves from seeing you as a target in the first place. Plus, it's very small and light so it's an extra layer of protection without much hassle."

Best Eye Mask

Sleep masks in general are a must-have for solo travelers — they’re great for flights when aisle-mates don’t want to close the window shade and can be game-changing in hotels without blackout curtains. We love that this one uses low-intensity light therapy technology, so you have the best sleep possible. "Not only does it fit super well without putting pressure on your eyes, but it also helps you to actually fall asleep, which is a game-changer," T+L commerce editor Taylor Fox said.

Best eReader

Amazon kindle fire hd 8 plus tablet.

T+L senior commerce writer Merrell Readman always brings her Kindle Fire tablet with her on trips as a form of entertainment while on the go. "Last year I took my first solo trip to Portugal, and without a doubt, my Kindle was the best thing I packed," she shared. "Since I was alone I had plenty of time to work through my reading list, and I ended up getting through five books on the trip — but the best part is the Kindle connects directly to the NYPL website, making it so I could swap out books without weighing down my suitcase." The device boasts up to 12 hours of battery life on one charge, which is perfect for long-haul flights and a full day of lounging at the beach.

Best Outlet Adapter

Sublimeware international power adapter.

An outlet adapter is essential for charging electronics in countries that use different sockets. "I never leave the country without this international power adapter. Because it works for most destinations, it majorly streamlines my packing list and makes me feel secure that if all else fails I’ll have at least one adapter that will work no matter where in the world I am," T+L commerce editor Sophie Mendel shared. This one works in over 150 countries and you can charge multiple devices at once.

Best Quick-dry Towel

Rainleaf microfiber towel.

For showering or swimming in the ocean, this lightweight and quick-drying towel is perfect for tossing in a backpack or carry-on. "An endlessly versatile travel accessory, a compact, quick-dry towel is a must for any trip. I’ve used mine everywhere from hostel bathrooms in Bolivia to the cold-plunge saunas in Arctic Norway and beyond," Mendel said. "This one is reliable, dries super fast, and packs down small so you can toss it in your carry-on shortly after use for a quick turnaround."

Best Hydration Packets

Liquid i.v. hydration hero bundle.

"I tend to forget to drink water as much as I should when I travel, but these individual packets are a helpful reminder to stay hydrated," T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco said. "I like that they come in individual packets so you can carry as much as you need for the day." They're especially helpful if you've also packed your own water bottle, so you can stick the travel-size packets in your day pack and fill up wherever the day takes you.

Best Headlamp

Energizer led headlamp flashlight.

While this may sound unnecessary when you’ve got a phone flashlight, you’ll never regret having a battery-operated headlamp in case of emergency, particularly when traveling alone. “Not only did I use it to navigate my way to the restroom in the Sahara, but when I was in Cuba, there was a blackout while I was packing, so I simply strapped it on my head and continued without missing a beat,” T+L contributor Rachel Chang shared. It’s always better to be prepared! We love this model because it’s super lightweight and budget-friendly.

Best Money Belt

Eagle creek money belt.

“I use money belts while traveling to avoid getting my credit cards or cash stolen,” says Popp, who recommends Eagle Creek’s Silk Undercover Money Belt. This satin-lined accessory is sweat-resistant and features two handy zippered pockets to keep your passport, cash, and credit cards organized and secured. “I usually carry a regular purse, too, but having a hidden money belt helps keep track of money or other small valuables,” Popp noted.

Best Backpack

Herschel packable daypack.

Whether you’re backpacking or carry-on-ing, it’s always a good idea to bring a small, packable bag that you can use for day trips or hikes — and Herschel’s version, made of rugged ripstop material, folds up into next to nothing. “A packable backpack can be a godsend for storing items like a water bottle, extra sweater, phone chargers, etc. while I'm on the go,” Popp said. “I love that this backpack folds up into a built-in small pouch to make storing it even easier when it's not needed.”

Best Zipper-helper

Sharemoon zipper pulls.

Your wardrobe is one thing that definitely should not be limited by traveling alone. “You don’t want to corner a stranger in the elevator or walk down to the front desk partially clothed, so something like this is incredibly convenient when traveling solo,” Parker said. “While there are many styles to buy, I’d recommend one with a spring clip versus a hook or lobster clasp as this style can work with the widest range of zippers.”

Best First Aid Kit

Curad compact first aid kit.

Wherever you go, it's important to prioritize your health — this first aid kit has all of the basics you need to feel your best for a full day out. "It includes three different bandage sizes plus other first-aid essentials like cleansing towelettes, alcohol pads, and antibiotic ointment," Parker said. "I actually keep this travel-sized first-aid kit at home and pull from it to make smaller kits in snack-sized plastic bags when I travel. Then I can restock the larger travel kit as needed to have all my essentials in one place at home, plus have several little first-aid 'go bags' to stash in my various travel bags."

Best Tech Organizer

Bevegekos tech organizer travel case.

Stay organized on the go with a handy tech organizer for keeping all of your important gadgets in one place. "Chargers and adapters can easily wind up in a tangled heap of a mess in my travel bag if they're not organized in some way. I truly love this one because there are pockets for all of my phone and laptop power cords, my portable charger, and even my wireless earbuds," Grant shared. "It's great to have on hand when I'm solo traveling to avoid forgetting my electronics and accessories from place to place." This one is slim and compact, but it's large enough to store all of the tech essentials and it has a wrap-around zipper to secure the items.

Best Reusable Bags

W&p porter silicone reusable bags.

"I love that these bags are dishwasher-safe when I return home from a trip," Parker says. "I love these reusable bags when traveling, especially the stand-up ones so I can have my snacks set out on the airplane tray in front of me. I've bought other brands and find the quality of these to be top-notch, and I also like that they have a roll-top version that can be sized smaller when I'm halfway through what I'm eating. I usually stash one of the traditional ones in my purse since I'm prone to buying snacks that I don't finish while I'm on my shopping adventures so I don't need to go out alone late at night if I get hungry again."

Best Water Bottle

Que collapsible water bottle.

Staying hydrated on a can be difficult, so consider bringing a compact water bottle like this one that folds down to save space in a bag. "To avoid spending $10 on a plastic bottle of water at the airport, I bring this folding water bottle to save money and space in my backpack," Popp said. "It folds down into a super small size and it comes with a clip to attach it to my backpack when it's filled up. It's not the largest bottle, but the portability factor makes it worth traveling with." Plus, it comes in an array of pretty colors from violent to sage.

Share your itinerary (or location) with someone before you go

Most of my close friends and I share our location using “Find My Friends,” an iPhone app that shares where we are in real time (which can be very comforting while traveling solo). If you’re not keen to share that level of detail, consider at least sharing an itinerary and any general travel confirmations (i.e. flight numbers and hotel addresses) with someone you trust.

You can also add friends to ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft so that they’re notified whenever you book a ride and reach your destination. (The auto-texts generated by the app have unexpectedly been a great prompt for staying in touch with friends while traveling, leading us to check-in about where we’ve been that weekend or dish on late-night rides home from evenings out.)

Skip the selfie stick

Paris-based T+L contributor Sara Lieberman , who has traveled to over fifteen countries on her own, suggests skipping selfies and instead asking someone to take your photo, which is often an easy and no-pressure conversation starter. “Asking someone to take a photo of you will not only (hopefully) result in a better shot—feel free to direct them and set it up to your liking—but perhaps a conversation or even a shared experience. Maybe they'd be interested in joining you on a local tour that required a two-person minimum.”

Go guilt-free

When traveling with someone else, you typically need to make some compromises to ensure you both get what you want out of the trip, perhaps waking up earlier than you’d like, or sightseeing longer than you’d want. The beauty of traveling alone is you get to call the shots, and leave the guilt of not feeling always-aligned with someone else behind.

“Solo travel has always been my preferred way of seeing the world. I love the feeling of exploring a new place entirely on my own, which leaves me more open to unexpected discoveries and connecting with strangers,” says Yagoda. “Also, I can't lie, I love to do exactly what I want, when I want it—without worrying about a travel partner who may have a different vision in mind. I'm someone who needs a lot of rest and relaxation while traveling, so when I'm alone I don't have to feel guilty about skipping an afternoon of sightseeing if I don't feel up to it.”

Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers

It may go against what we’re taught as kids, but it’s crucial to trust your gut and chat up friendly-looking folks as you go about your travels. I recently climbed up 500 very steep steps to catch a sunset in Vietnam and found myself laughing with the other out-of-breath people at the top, lamenting the climb, which segued naturally into chatting about our respective trips.

Lieberman puts it this way: “You know that NYC subway phrase about suspicious packages? ‘If you see something, say something’: Well, use it to meet people. But, like, with your general observations,” she suggests, noting that simple comments like, "’Amazing sunset. Do you know another good spot around here?’” can be natural openers for great conversations (and hopefully great travel tips!).

Don’t rely (only) on Google

Another way to initiate conversations with locals or fellow travelers—and hopefully to enrich your trip in the process—is to ask them for advice. “If you don't know, ask!” Lieberman says. “We travel to learn, and when we're alone we often rely on Google or Wikipedia to educate ourselves rather than, say, another traveler who seems adept at buying metro tickets or a local who knows the right pronunciation for ‘addition’ (the bill) in French.”

Always read reviews before booking accommodations

This applies to all travel but is particularly salient as a solo traveler: Do your homework before booking a place to stay. The worst thing when you’re weary after a long day of travel is showing up to a place that makes you feel anything less than comfortable.

Prepare physical and digital copies of important docs

When you're traveling alone, it's important to have copied back-ups of all of your important documents like reservations, passports, IDs, and more. But it can also be helpful to have printed copies as well as digital copies on a separate device in case of lost or theft. For example, if you travel with an iPad or tablet, you should ensure that you save all of the same important documents on that second device as you do on your phone.

Traveling alone can be one of the most incredible ways to connect more deeply with yourself and with the people and places you encounter along your journey. It’s a physical and emotional juxtaposition from your comfort zone, taking you to new places where there’s a good chance you don’t speak the language or know anyone (yet!). And that’s where the good stuff starts: Traveling alone forces you to chat up people you might never otherwise engage with if you had a friend or partner there to keep you company. Often, you may find yourself opening up about parts of your life that you haven’t even explored with your loved ones back home; there’s something about being removed from the familiar (and from the pressure of living up to what those closest to you might expect from you) that allows you to shed certain parts of yourself and try new ones on for size.

While there are ample upsides to solo travel, there’s also an inherent risk in navigating a foreign (or even not-so-foreign) place by yourself — though a GPS navigator can help. To mitigate that risk, it’s crucial to take proper precautions like some of the solo travel tips outlined above, whether that’s sharing your location with a friend or doing your due diligence when picking a place to stay. Carrying some of the travel safety products recommended here as well, like a personal safety alarm and a portable lock for the door in your accommodations, can offer peace of mind and an added layer of security as well.

For more inspiration and comfort, check out solo-travel-focused groups on Facebook. Many are dedicated specifically to female solo travel, while others may be destination-specific and offer insights into things to be aware of or visa logistics. You’re likely to find a ton of helpful tips and maybe even a travel buddy to link up with somewhere!

The beauty (and at times, most daunting aspect) of a solo trip is that you’re calling all the shots—including how long you’d like to travel for. Of course, there are the typical constraints, like a job that requires you to be on-site, or a family to consider. Budget is a determining factor as well, although there are ample ways to stretch your budget if you’re eager to keep traveling. Otherwise, it’s all up to you. If you’re new to solo travel, start with a shorter trip—maybe a long weekend or a five-day jaunt somewhere—to let yourself find your own rhythm without the pressure of weeks “alone” stretching ahead of you (as most solo travelers know, you’re rarely alone for long—you’re bound to meet friendly new faces along the way!).

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Sophie Dodd is a full-time freelance writer for T+L and other reputable publications. She spends her time working on vineyards, road-tripping through the Pacific Northwest, and seeking out the greatest outdoor showers of all time—all in the name of investigative journalism. She focuses on personal essays, branded content, feature writing, and just about anything that involves Paris. She and T+L writer Taylor Fox spoke with other globetrotting writers and editors to curate this list of the best products and tips for solo travel.

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The Five Foot Traveler

Reaching new heights, 137 travel essentials: a comprehensive packing list.

by Sarah Gallo | Aug 15, 2019 | Resources | 2 comments

You’ve decided that you wanted to travel somewhere new, so you booked a flight, secured your hotels, and told all of your friends. You eagerly search Instagram for the must-see spots and, before you know it, you leave in a few weeks! Now, I never recommend saving packing for the last minute, but it’s silly to start gathering your travel essentials few months out too.

This article is meant to serve as a guideline for the most efficient ways to go about packing your travel essentials. Coming from someone who has visited over 100 countries, it’s safe to say that I’ve done enough trial and error for all of you! In this article you will find the most useful carry on essentials, packing and clothing essentials, outdoor essentials, fitness “on the go” essentials, reading essentials, and business management essentials.

Chimp trekking in Uganda with travel essentials on hand

Now, here’s the thing: this list of travel essentials covers just about everything, so try not to get overwhelmed. No matter your age, no matter your type of travel, this comprehensive list should be used as a guideline to decide what you need to pack depending on your trip. For instance, you certainly won’t pack the same things for a luxury cruise through the Caribbean , an RV trip through New Zealand , or a road trip through South Africa . Of course, it should go without saying, but if you’re going to places like Antarctica or the Arctic, you will certainly need to include gear for extremities, and a packing list is almost always provided.

Please note: This page contains affiliate links, meaning that The Five Foot Traveler may receive a small commission when you purchase any travel essentials using the links in this article at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your continued support!

I personally use and own everything that I recommend below.

Before you begin packing, please make sure you go through this checklist of absolute, no questions asked travel essentials:

Is your Passport valid for six months after you depart your destination and for the duration of your trip?
Have you checked to see if you have all of the necessary visas for where you’re visiting?
Have you purchased a comprehensive travel insurance plan ?

Hopefully you’ve answered YES to the above questions, so let’s dive in. First thing’s first, I always recommend having a staging area for your travel essentials well before you pack. For me, it’s the loveseat in my bedroom, but anywhere will do (although I do suggest keeping it out of reach from messy children or pets). Here, you can organize the travel goodies you’ve purchased and start organizing your piles of clothes and toiletries. I find this useful because I usually want to use the things I need to pack, so I’m not a big fan of throwing everything into a suitcase two weeks prior to departure.

And speaking of suitcases, decide early on the way you’d like to travel. Are you going on a luxury European vacation? Trekking through the Himalayas? Relaxing on a beach somewhere? Your luggage should reflect your style of travel. Since I started this travel journey as a backpacker, I initially checked a 55L backpack and used a hiking backpack as my carry on.

When I first started backpacking these were my travel essentials

Then I started traveling carry on only, where I used a spinner carry on and a hiking backpack as my personal item. Then, finally, when I transitioned into luxury travel and *gasp* needed to pack heels and a variety of dresses, I started checking a 24” spinner and bringing with me a carry on spinner on the plane and a cross body bag as my personal item for under the seat in front of me.

women's travel pants & travel essentials

I've cleaned up a bit over the years though, don't worry!

I’ve loved every backpack, bag, and suitcase that I’ve owned and highly recommend picking and choosing between the following:

Airplane Personal Item

Cross-Body Bag: If you want to look a little more put together, but want easy access to all of your carry on travel essentials, a cross-body bag is a must. If you like to travel with your laptop, make sure you purchase one that has a laptop sleeve too. Of course, it should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you but roomy enough that you won’t have to dig around in it to find what you want. My Recommendation – Vera Bradley Lighten Up Weekender Travel Bag . This is honestly an absolute must for me, and I bring it everywhere I go.
Backpack: Your backpack should be both supportive and spacious. I love that this also can substitute as a hiking day pack. Everything that I pack in my cross-body bag will also fit in my 24L backpack, so it just comes down to personal preference. My Recommendation – Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. These both have incredible structure and hip support.

Airplane Carry On Item

A Spinner Carry On Suitcase: If you’re questioning whether you should get a suitcase with two wheels or four wheels, always choose the four-wheel spinner. It will make your life easier as you both navigate crowds within the airport and on the busy streets of your destination. Trust me on this, as I converted from a two-wheeler to a four-wheeler and it made a huge difference in the way that I travel. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 21” Hardside Spinner. Hardside here is key. It helps you not to overpack, and it is also more durable for your travels. This is one of the most lightweight hardside carry on suitcases that you’ll find on the market, and it has a built-in TSA-approved lock as well as a limited lifetime warranty.
If you’re not carrying on a suitcase, you may be able to carry on both recommended personal items – depending on the airline, size, and weight.

Airplane Checked Item

Spinner Checked Suitcase: Again, I highly recommend a spinner four-wheel suitcase over a two-wheel suitcase for the purpose of ease. Personally, I like when my carry on spinner and checked spinner match, which led me back to TravelPro. I like the way that the inside is organized, and it’s helpful that each of their hardside spinners come with a built-in TSA-approved lock. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 25” Spinner and TravelPro Maxlite 5 29” Spinner. Depending on the type of trip you’re taking (and how many shoes haha), you’ll need to decide which size checked luggage works for you. I find it useful to have a 25” and 29” on hand, but 99% of the time I will choose just to bring the 25” Spinner, as I’ve found that’s more than enough for me. If you’d like to purchase the 21”, 25”, and 29” as a set – which is the best bang for your buck – you can do so here.
Trekkers Pack: Now, if you’re moving around a lot, camping, trekking, and staying in refugios, then a trekkers pack will certainly be the better option for you. When I first started traveling I used a trekkers pack, and it definitely has its benefits for the active among us! When researching which pack to get, make sure that it’s easily opened from multiple points on the bag, that it has plenty of pockets for your smaller items, and provides you with plenty of support. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . I tried on what felt like hundreds of trekkers packs before realizing that these were, hands down, the ideal pack that I was looking for. I have carried quite a bit of weight in mine, and it was always comfortable on the hips and shoulders. Plus, Osprey has an “all mighty guarantee” where they will repair any damage free of charge and, if they can’t fix it, they will replace it at no cost to you. Incredibly, this applies to all of their products, no matter the purchase date. You can read more about it here , if interested.
Rolling Duffle: At the end of the day, some people just love duffle bags (my grandpa is one of them!). They’re a great combination of a duffle bag and rolling suitcase, and you have the ability to carry the bag or roll it, depending on your circumstances. My Recommendation – TravelPro Rolling Duffle Bag with Drop Bottom. This comes in all different colors and sizes, but I recommend the 30”, as it’s plenty roomy without being overwhelming. This rolling duffle is lightweight, yet incredibly durable; it survived a few weeks of safaris in Africa with no problems. It also has many different pockets and separators to keep your bag well-organized.

To keep your luggage organized as a whole, I couldn’t recommend packing cubes highly enough. I originally didn’t think they had much use, but they’ve changed my life when it comes to packing – whether it’s just for a weekend trip or a year-long journey. They come in all different sizes, and I use a variety of small, medium, and large packing cubes. My Recommendation: I have tested many packing cubes over the years, and I can say – without a doubt – that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cubes are the absolute best on the market. They are incredibly durable and as lightweight as possible. And look at how nicely they fit into a suitcase!

packing cubes and other travel essentials

How I pack my carry on to include all travel essentials

And always remember: lock all of your luggage with TSA-approved locks if you don’t have a suitcase with built in locks. Both checked luggage, and carry on (yes, this means backpacks too). I’ve tried many different locks over the years, but these are my favorite. I presume you’re like me and don’t want people sifting through your checked bag nor people sneaking into your carry on while you sleep (have you heard the stories of valuables being stolen from airplanes?).

But now that you’ve chosen your luggage, you’re probably wondering what travel essentials are actually necessary to pack….

I’m going to break down my packing list into easy-to-organize categories for you. Just remember to pick and choose what you most need for the trip you’re taking. So, let’s do this!

Carry On Essentials

Documents & Confirmations: These are things that you simply must have on you at all times. DO NOT leave your house without packing these into your personal items, as they are absolute travel essentials.

Comfort: Unless you travel first class, flights are rarely considered comfortable – and it doesn’t matter if it’s an easy 5-hour flight or a 19-hour flight! Make your life easier by packing these few travel essentials for a bit of extra comfort. There’s no way that I could do an overnight flight even semi-comfortably without these!

girl on airplane with over-the-ear noise cancelling headphones, a sleep mask, and a pillow - travel essentials

Noise Cancelling Headphones, Eye Mask, Pillow – Travel Essentials

Blow Up Pillow: I’ll start by saying that I think I’ve tried every airplane pillow out there, or just about! Since I take so many overnight flights, and we all know how airplane pillows feel, it makes sense to bring your own. I began not to worry about the shape or size — if it helped me sleep, it was a keeper. My Recommendation – Haobaimei Airplane Pillow. I know, I know it looks a bit silly, but I promise you that it’s the best airplane pillow out there. It has allowed me to sleep comfortably in a variety of positions. I’d like to be able to describe it in detail, but you’re better off clicking this link , and scrolling to the “product description” to see all of the reasons why this pillow is a must!
Foot Rest: You’re probably thinking, “what?” But yes, airplane footrests are a thing, and quite comfortable. Rather than trying to squeeze your legs under the chair (and slam your shins along the way), you can instead set up your footrest. My Recommendation – Sleepy Ride. I’ve had this footrest for years; it’s incredibly lightweight and folds up tiny. It’s very easy to set up, and you can adjust the height to your preference.
Eye Mask – Eye Masks are a tricky thing. Assuming that it will be over your eyes for hours on end, you need to ensure that it doesn’t press against your eyes, doesn’t let light in, and doesn’t slip off your head. My Recommendation – Manta Sleep Mask. I was drawn in not only by their 100% darkness guaranteed, but also by the fact that you can still open your eyes behind the mask too! The fact that there is zero pressure on your eyes, and that it’s fully customizable to your unique face makes it a must have!
Compression Socks: Compression socks are important to wear while flying, especially if it’s a long-haul flight! They not only increase circulation, but they help prevent blood clots and swelling too. My Recommendation – Alvada Compression Socks for Men & Women. Get them and remember to bring them on your next flight!
Cambridge Mask: I have always traveled with a mask on hand, should I get sick or should there be something going around. Cambridge Masks are amongst the best out there, as their masks meet the N99 standard and protect against almost 100% of pollutants, viruses, and bacteria *if the mask is worn correctly.* Whenever using a mask, make sure that it's snug on your face, avoid touching the front of the mask, and be sure to wash your hands before putting the mask on/taking it off. My Recommendation – Cambridge Mask Co.
Earplanes: Have you ever struggled with painful ear popping on airplanes? Well I get horrible ear pain whenever I fly… to the point where I cannot fly without them. My Recommendation – EarPlanes Pack of 3. These work fantastically to relieve the pressure in your ears during take off and landing, while muffling some of the noise too.
Reusable Water Bottle: I always recommend traveling with a water bottle on hand for two reasons. (1) It’s good to have a bottle that the flight attendants can fill up for you so that you’re not stuck to 3 sips of water until the next flight attendant comes back. (2) Having a reusable water bottle can help minimize your plastic waste. My Recommendation – Hydro Flask. The Hydro Flask is a BPA-free stainless steel, slip free water bottle. It comes in a variety of sizes and will keep hot drinks hot for up to six hours and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. Definitely handy to have while traveling!
Sweatshirt or Jacket: Planes (or any type of transportation honestly) can sometimes be unbearably cold! I definitely recommend always having a sweatshirt or jacket on hand, or both, as I doubt anyone wants to be freezing and uncomfortable for hours on end.
Change of Clothes: No one likes a smelly person 😉 But in all honesty, it’s important to have a change of clothes on hand for just in case your luggage gets lost. If you’re going on a beach trip, pack a bathing suit. A hiking trip, pack your spandex. You get the point.
Carabiners – While this may seem a bit random, carabiners are incredibly useful for travel. I use a carabiner to clip my water bottle to my carry on, as well as to clip my pillow and footrest to the seat in front of me too. You don’t need anything fancy, so something like these will do.

Technology & Valuables: Anything of value should never be checked. Make sure that all technology and valuables (like jewelry & sunglasses) are packed in your carry on and in a locked compartment. Some of these things may be obvious, but I’m still including them if you reference this as your packing list.

As a content creator, I obviously pack a lot more tech than the average person, but please use the list below as a guideline for what to pack tech-wise according to your needs. Perhaps you’ll even find something new to bring with you on your next trip!

girl on laptop by the ocean - travel essentials

A typical day with my laptop on the road

Smartphone: This is a given these days, but make sure you pack your phone! It’s also incredibly helpful to have some apps downloaded that might help make your travel easier. My favorite is App in the Air 🙂 My Recommendation – iPhone Xs Max. If you’re looking for a new smartphone, I have an iPhone Xs Max 256 GB and absolutely love it.
Noise Cancelling Headphones (and iPod): Airplanes are noisy. People are noisy. Babies are noisy. Get rid of the noise! My Recommendation – Bose QuietComfort 35 II. These wireless, bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones are honestly a dream. They are the very first thing I pack in my personal item, as I couldn’t do a flight without them! Of course, make sure you have music downloaded on your phone or iPod to listen to as well (and yes, I still use an iPod).
Earbuds: While I’m obsessed with noise cancelling headphones, it’s always a good idea to have a regular pair of earbuds too. They do make noise-cancelling earbuds as well, but those have never felt right to me. My Recommendation – Apple Airpods with Charging Case. These Airpods automatically connect to your device and charge within 15 minutes once you put them back in their case. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to travel with.
Kindle: I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle. I love that it allows me to travel with as many books as I’d like, without the burden of actually having to lug them around. My Recommendation – Kindle Paperwhite. The flush design is as close to “paper” as it gets and there are no glares (this I can promise, as I always read at the beach in the sun!). It is also waterproof, which is convenient, and pairs with bluetooth headphones as well if you’re an audiobook listener.
Laptop: Depending on what you do or for how long you’re traveling, you may not need to bring your laptop. My Recommendation – MacBook Air or MacBook Pro 15”. These both have very different uses. For travel, the MacBook Air is significantly easier to travel with. While it’s infinitely lighter though, it doesn’t have the same processing power as the MacBook Pro 15”. If you plan on editing a lot of photos or videos, unfortunately the heavier MacBook Pro 15” should be your go-to. I personally used (and loved) the MacBook Air for years before switching to the MacBook Pro 15”, which is what I use now (for a stronger and faster laptop).
Laptop Case: Even if your backpack or messenger bag has a laptop sleeve, be sure to have your laptop in its own protective case! My Recommendation – CCPK Laptop Sleeve. This is as basic a laptop sleeve as it gets, but it is snug and will protect your laptop, without adding extra bulk.
External Hard Drive: If you’re on the road a lot or take excess photos, you’ll certainly want an external hard drive on hand to back everything up! My Recommendation – LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive. I’ve had multiple LaCie Rugged Hard Drives, and I’ve loved each and every one of them. They’re perfect for any kind of trip, as they’re compact, durable, and water-resistant. And if you’re interested in learning how to better edit your photos, it even comes with a complimentary one-month membership to Adobe!
USB Drive: I can’t even begin to tell you how many times people ask if I can give them a USB drive with photos. It’s an extremely small, very useful thing to have on you if you’re in the content creation space. My Recommendation – SanDisk Cruzer Glide CZ60 USB Drive . I personally recommend the 256 GB, as you’ll never worry about running out of space, but any will do based on your needs.
DSLR Camera: Now this one is tricky one because every person has different travel needs and preferences. I’ve personally traveled with a Canon, Sony, and Panasonic… but it wasn’t until I traveled with an Olympus Camera that I was fully content. My Recommendation – Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Not only is it the lightest DSLR that I have ever carried around with me, but it’s waterproof and weather-sealed, which makes it ideal for every situation. This is my go-to travel camera these days, and you can read the full review of my Olympus products here.

girl leans over side of cruise ship to take a photo

Always travel equipped with a good camera!

Lenses: Again, lenses will depend on the type of photo that you’re aiming to get. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II can be purchased with two different lenses, or you can purchase the lenses separately. My Recommendation – M. Zuiko 14-150mm f4-5.6 for your everyday lens and M.Zuiko 7-14mm f2.8 PRO for a wide angle lens. I originally thought I wouldn’t need a wide angle lens, but sure was wrong!
GoPro: By now I’m sure you’ve heard that the GoPro is the best action-cam on the market and, guess what, it’s true. Whether you’re running down the beach, zip-lining through the air, or diving with sharks, the GoPro can help perfectly capture the moment. My Recommendation – GoPro Hero 8. The GoPro Hero 8 prides itself on filming in 4K, taking 12 MP still shots, and having the best stabilization on an action camera. This is a must for any adventure traveler!
Memory Cards: Make sure you purchase high quality memory cards. I always recommend smaller memory card sizes, and a lot of them. If a memory card were to become corrupt, I would hate to lose everyone on a 256 GB memory card! My Recommendation – SanDisk 32 GB Extreme Pro for your camera and the SanDisk 64 GB Micro SD for your GoPro. The Extreme Pro writes quite quickly at 95 mbps and the Micro SD is a Class 10, meaning that it will work great for full HD video playback. Both SD Cards are waterproof, shock proof, and temperature-proof.
Gimbal: No one likes shaky videos. If you’re shooting with a smartphone or GoPro, a gimbal helps stabilize your videos and keeps them smooth. They’re relatively lightweight and portable, and a necessity if you want to get into video. My Recommendation – DJI Osmo Mobile 2. DJI is an incredible reputable brand and their gimbal is one of the most lightweight on the market. Run, jump, do everything in between, and this gimbal will keep your videos stable.
FitBit: It’s no secret that I’ve always loved my FitBit. I’ve worn one for years, and I love that it provides me with in-depth sleep analytics while also counting my steps, calories, and distance walked for the day. My Recommendation – FitBit Versa. I’ve had a few different FitBit’s over the years, and the Versa is definitely my favorite! It’s the biggest competitor to the Apple Watch, and I prefer its exercise analytics and sleek design. You can also download your favorite apps and music on your FitBit Versa too!
Portable Speaker: I actually bought the UE Roll out of necessity when our other speaker died on a road trip through New Zealand , but I’m SO happy we did! It’s incredibly portable and easily hung up or carried with you. My Recommendation – UE Roll Wireless. This bluetooth speaker is not only wireless, but waterproof and shockproof too. It has great sound quality, and it makes for the perfect addition to any camp out, beach day, or general use around the house.
Portable Battery Charger: You never know when your phone or camera might die. I always always always carry a portable battery charger with me. Not only does it ensure that I will always be charged up, but it’s also nice to be able to provide your friends with a bit of juice when their phones die too (because, no, they typically never have an external battery charger). My Recommendation – myCharge AdventureMax Portable Charger . The myCharge is an important buy for travelers because, aside from having dual USB ports for charging (which is awesome), it is also splash-proof, drop-resistant, and dirt-proof, making it the perfect travel buddy. It’s also incredibly small and compact and has an attached carabiner, so it’s easy to throw in your purse or attach off a backpack.
International Adaptor: No matter where you’re traveling, this is an absolute must. I always carry at least two international adaptors so that, if one breaks, I always have a back up. You would be surprised how many people forget to pack an international adaptor. My Recommendation – Upgraded Universal Travel Adaptor. The reason I love this travel adaptor is that not only does it have a standard plug, but four USB ports as well. Sometimes I don’t have a long time to charge my equipment, but with this adaptor I have the ability to charge everything at the same time. This Universal Adaptor works in over 150 countries, so it’s certainly handy to have!
Chargers: If you have a lot of gear, it’s likely that you have a lot of cords and cables. While there’s no need to elaborate, these are the main chargers that I always have on hand.

Medications: When people think of travel essentials, they don’t typically think of meds, but important Medications should never be checked! Should your luggage be lost, you don’t want to be without your daily meds. If you have prescribed medication, ensure that it is packed in your carry on. Aside from our individual health needs, I recommend packing – at minimum – Advil, Allergy Medications, Pepto-Bismol (or something similar), Motion Sickness Tablets, Tylenol AM/PM, and Malaria Tablets (depending on your destination), as well as Neosporin Cream and Hydrocortisone Cream. And, of course, if you carry an EpiPen, don’t forget that either!

Miscellaneous: These are some small things I wasn’t sure how to categorize, but I make sure to have all of these in my carry on as well!

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Clothing is a tricky one, as this really varies per person. I’ve done 8 month trips where I’ve had 5 tops and 5 bottoms, and weeklong cruise trips where I have 20 outfits for 7 days. I highly recommend Anatomie as your go-to travel clothing brand though, and they’ve actually been endorsed by both Forbes Travel Guide and Condé Nast Traveler. Please take the time to view these three articles:

The Best Travel Pants For Women
The Best Travel Shirts For Women
Travel Clothes For Women

With the founders of Anatomie, my go-to travel clothing!

In general though, you can use the table below as a rough guideline for the types of clothing you should pack. I don’t go anywhere without these things – no matter what season it is. Remember when packing, your clothes will typically get a bit wrinkly, so I recommend bringing a travel-sized wrinkle releaser as well as a dual-voltage travel steamer.

Toiletries: Do yourself a favor and purchase the Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Bag . It’s the perfect sized toiletry bag and very lightweight. It should easily fit all of your toiletries, aside from your Microfiber Towel ( this is a must! ). There’s no need to explain what each toiletry is needed for though, so I’m providing you with another table with what to bring –

Shoes: Shoes are always a personal preference. I used to travel with just one pair of flip flops and one pair of hiking boots, but times have changed a bit. I know other people who practically need a whole suitcase just for their heels. With that said, these days I typically pack sandals, a pair of flip-flops, black heels, nude heels, cross-training shoes, sneakers, and hiking boots when I’m going on a longer trip. And, of course, plenty of socks! I recommend Puma’s ankle socks and Darn Tough hiking socks.

Gotta have a good pair of heels while you're cruising!

Outdoor Essentials

Camping: So you’ve decided that you want to become one with nature, or you’re simply on a trip that’s better suited for camping – awesome! Years ago I spent two months camping through Central America and another two months camping through Africa, and both were incredible experiences. It helped that I was well-prepared though! It’s important to note that even if you decide to camp in the summer (or in a desert), it is not always warm at night. I’ve learned this the hard way, so make sure you pack many layers and are prepared for every type of climate, every time. My go-to camping equipment is as follows –

Couldn't have camped in New Zealand without my lightweight tent!

Big Agnes Tent: Big Agnes is the best of the best when it comes to finding the most lightweight, durable tents. I used a bulkier tent for my first camping trip and regretted it instantly. My Recommendation – Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 3. I’ve loved every night that I’ve spent in this tent — it’s unbelievably light for a three-person tent, very comfortable, and weatherproof too! I always opt for a three-person tent over a two-person tent so that we can keep our gear inside with us and have a little extra space.
Sleeping Pad: A good sleeping pad is a necessity. When I first started camping I tried to go cheap to save money, but it was a terrible decision. It definitely isn’t fun spending the night slipping and sliding off your mat, or feeling the ground under your back. My Recommendation – Big Agnes Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad. This sleeping pad comes with the option of it being insulated or uninsulated, and I’d definitely recommend the insulation as it’s rated for 3-season camping and still only weighs in at 21oz! This folds up incredibly small (about the size of a water bottle) yet doesn’t compromise on its comfort.
Sleeping Bag: A roomy yet packable sleeping bag is also, obviously, very important for camping. I recommend getting a 2-3 season sleeping bag and doing your research to ensure that it’s super lightweight. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Spark Down Sleeping Bag. The beauty of this sleeping bag is that it weighs just over a pound and packs down to just 4.9L! It also comes with a compression bag so that it compresses down to the size of a water bottle. This sleeping bag is water resistant, has a great hooded component, and will keep you warm all night.
Sleep Liner: This is something that a lot of people forget about, but it’s incredibly handy. I suggest traveling with a sleep liner for a few reasons. First, it can be an extra layer if it’s colder outside, but it can also be your only layer if it’s too warm for your sleeping bag. Also, it doesn’t need to be used just for camping. When I used to stay in hostels, I’d use my sleep liner in bed rather than use the blanket. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Adaptor Coolmax Liner Traveller with Insect Shield. I’ve used this all over the world. You can purchase it without the insect shield, but I personally prefer having the extra insect repellant treatment, especially when in outdoorsy locations.
Ultra Light Pillow: You want a comfortable, small blowup pillow to have with you. I’ve seen way too many people fold up their clothes into an uncomfortable pillow when they could have just brought a lightweight pillow. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Ultra Light. I’ve had this pillow for about five years now, and it’s never let me down. I won’t go anywhere without it. Not only does it pack down to smaller than the palm of my hand, but it’s genuinely comfortable! There have been many times where I’ve been in luxury hotels with pillows that were too high for me, so I just blew up this little pillow.
Hammock or Sleeping Hammock: If you’re camping, sometimes you just want to hang out outside of the tent… literally. A hammock definitely comes in handy during those times! Travel hammocks are easy to set up and are great for lounging, napping or reading a book. My Recommendation – ENO DoubleNest Hammock. This is a two person hammock, but comfortable for just one as well. It folds down small and is quite lightweight. Sometimes we bring it on our hikes as well, rather than just keeping them at the campsite! If you don’t feel like sleeping in the tent, or have a third-wheeler tagging along, the ENO Ember 2 Under Quilt could be of use too.

Who doesn't love a good hammock?!

Cookware: If you’re camping, you’ll definitely want the ability to cook easily. We all know though that no one wants to lug metal pots and pans to their campsite. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit X-Series. It doesn’t get much better than lightweight, durable, and collapsible cookware! The 5-piece set comes with one pot, two bowls, and two mugs, so you may need to order more than one set depending on how many people you’re camping with. They fold up smaller than you could imagine!
Spork: A spork is just one of the most convenient things you could have. Whether you need a spoon, knife, or fork, the spork has your back! I always carry a spork with me in my daypacks as well, as you never know when you will need one. My Recommendation – Tapirus 5 Spork of Steel Utensils Set. I highly recommend these rust-proof stainless steel sporks over their plastic equivalents. I had numerous plastic sporks break on me before transitioning to stainless steel and haven’t had any problems since.
Inflatable Lounger: Have you seen these things?! They’re infinitely better than any camp chair and fold up even smaller! These are truly one of the most interesting and useful camping additions that I’ve seen. My Recommendation – AlphaBeing Inflatable Lounger. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, click that link and check it out — it’s one of those things that is better visualized than described.
LED Camping Lantern: You certainly need something to light up your campsite or tent once it gets dark. As I like to keep things small and portable, I always suggest going for a lantern that collapses into itself. My Recommendation – MISPO 6 Pack Portable Camping Lantern with LED Flashlights. These are the perfect mini lanterns to put in and around your campsite. Then, when you’re not using them, they barely take up any space and pack away easily.

Hiking: It’s important to practice safe hiking anywhere you go. As always, I recommend looking up your hiking trails in advance, letting someone know where you’re going, and having a trail map handy. Bring many layers, in addition to the following –

girl with a blue sweatshirt, red hat, and hiking poles stands in front of the matterhorn in switzerland - travel essentials

Couldn't have tackled the Matterhorn Base Camp without my hiking poles!

Hiking Backpack: If you’re planning on taking day trips from your campsite or accommodation, a good hiking backpack is a necessity. I always look for things like good waist support and structure, as well as ample pockets. My Recommendation – Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. If you don’t remember why I chose these packs specifically, please scroll back up to the “luggage” section.
Trekkers Pack: If you’re going on a multi-day hike or staying in refugios along the trail, then you’ll need a bigger and better trekkers pack. Like the hiking backpack, this needs to be both structured and very comfortable. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . Jump back up to the “luggage” section if you’d like a refresher on these options.
Hydration Pack: Whether you’re going out on a two hour hike on a hot summer day or a long trek, a water bladder makes a massive difference! You won’t have to deal with taking off your backpack to take a sip, or worrying about your water bottle falling out of the side pocket. Plus, you can carry far more water with a hydration pack as well. My Recommendation – CamelBak Crux 2L or 3L Reservoir. I originally thought I’d save money by going with a non-name brand, but when I did that my water always tasted like plastic and, quite frankly, it was disgusting. CamelBak deserves the praise that it gets, and it’s definitely worth the price tag. I have both a 2L and a 3L, depending on what type of hike I’m doing. I find the 3L more useful on a day-to-day basis, as it doesn’t always need to be filled to the top.
Hiking Poles: Hiking Poles are a necessity for any hiker, in my opinion. Hiking poles not only make you a bit faster, but they take some pressure off your knees too. I always look for carbon poles are they are a lot lighter than aluminum poles. My Recommendation – Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles. Not only are these lightweight, 100% carbon fiber, and of the highest quality, but they also fold into three sections which makes them incredibly convenient to pack or attach to a backpack when not in use.
Headlamp: Whether you’re completing a sunrise or sunset mission, wandering around your campsite in the evening, or misjudged the length of your hike, it is imperative to carry a headlamp on you whenever you’re hiking! My Recommendation – Black Diamond Storm Headlamp. This headlamp is both waterproof and dustproof, which is always helpful! It also had three different color LED options, as well as adjustable intensity. I also love that it has a lock mode, which keeps my headlamp from turning on in my pack!

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Hiking in the dark can be dangerous without a headlamp

Water Filter: A water filter is very important when you’re out hiking. If something happens and you run out of water, you can stick it into any water (from a dirty puddle to a river) and it should come out clean. My Recommendation – LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. The LifeStraw removes waterborne bacteria, waterborne parasites, and micro-plastics found in the environment from your water. It is the most reliable water filter system for a hiker on the market. One of the admirable things about LifeStraw is that for every product purchased, a child receives safe drinking water for an entire school year – pretty remarkable!
Pocket Tissues: You never know when you’ll have a runny nose, have to clean up a spill… or need to pee. Just have them on you.
First Aid Kit: This should be a given, but I know plenty of people who don’t hike with one. Should anything happen, it helps to know that you’re properly prepared. My Recommendation – M2 Basic 150 Piece First Aid Kit. This is a travel-sized first aid kit that is about the size of your hand, so there’s no excuse not to put it in your backpack!
Bug Spray Wipes: Applying bug spray is typically a pain and tends to leave you sticky and oily, but not with the wipes! My Recommendation: Repel 94100 Sportsmen 30-Percent Deet Mosquito Repellent Wipes. I started traveling with these in 2013 and haven’t looked back. They’re incredibly easy-to-use, portable, and protective.
Clif Bars or Clif Protein Bars: You definitely need to ensure that you have some sustenance to keep you going while hiking. Although I’m not a big fan of the sugar content in Clif Bars, there’s no debating the fact that they were designed to help give your body fuel while active. My Recommendation – Clif Bar Variety Pack or, if you’re looking for a higher level of protein, the Clif Builders Protein Bar Variety Pack. While Clif Bars are – hands down – the tastiest protein bars on the market, my favorite flavors are the White Chocolate Macadamia and the Chocolate Mint.
Hiking Boots: Wearing good hiking boots is, of course, imperative. Over the years, I’ve spent ages researching the best and most comfortable brands. Another aspect that’s always important to me is that they’re waterproof, as you never know what conditions you might be hiking in or if the weather might take a turn. My Recommendation – Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot and Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot. Once I discovered Lowa, I never turned back. I’ve owned four different pairs of their hiking boots, as I’m incredibly happy with the model. They are properly waterproof and supportive, and perfect for any type of hike be it short distance or long distance.
Hiking Socks: If you hike a lot, you know how important a comfortable, breathable sock is. If you’re anything like me, your socks probably also take a bit of a beating, so you need to find something reliable. My Recommendation – Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Womens and Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Mens. Not only are Darn Tough socks incredibly comfortable and antimicrobial, but they are guaranteed for life! If you’re a frequent hiker, there’s no brand more reliable than Darn Tough, and they’re certainly worth the price tag.
Base Layers: Base layers have saved me time and time again while out for long hikes, and I cannot stress their importance! If I’m not wearing my base layers, they’re in my bags. While there are so many brands and base layers out there, it’s important to do your research as I simply can’t list them all. My Recommendation – Women’s Ultra-Soft Long Johns & Warm Top Set and Men’s Thermal Underwear Set. Always, always make sure that your base layers are moisture-wicking!
Down Jacket: I carry a down jacket with me on every trail, every camping trip, and even every airplane. It doesn’t matter whether it’s sweltering hot or freezing cold, I always have one with me to ensure that I’m prepared. My Recommendation – Mountain Hardwear Women’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket and Men’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket. These jackets are, in my opinion, the best lightweight down jackets on the market. The hood is important, as it provides that extra warm, and they’re both machine-washable. Another aspect that I love – and find to be incredibly useful – is that it folds up into itself so that it packs down extremely small. The jacket is worth every cent to me, and I wouldn’t travel without it!

girl stands with northern lights in iceland

Staying warm in Iceland thanks to my down jacket

Rain Jacket: You’re pretty much crazy if you decide to go hiking without a rain jacket. Not only could the weather change from a beautiful day to an ugly storm in the blink of an eye, but it also serves as a windproof layer as well. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Jacket and Outdoor Research Men’s Horizon Jacket. After testing out multiple lightweight rain jackets, and finding myself soaked after a good rain, I decided to invest in a GORE-TEX rain jacket. While they’re slightly bigger, these rain jackets will still packs down small enough to throw in your backpack… and it will actually keep you try! They are waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable due to the multiple venting systems.
Hat: An easily packable sun hat always comes in handy. While there are plenty of “cute” ones out there, I like to make sure that I purchase hats that can both be thrown in the wash and are moisture-wicking. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s Solar Roller Hat. I discovered this hat a few years back, and found it so convenient that it’s the only hat that I ever hike or travel with. While this is obviously a women’s hat, the male or uni-sex equivalent would be the Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat.
Buff: Buffs have many uses – whether you’re wanting to keep your neck, face, or head warm. They’re lightweight and incredibly useful. My Recommendation – Buff Polar Multifunctional Headwear. I’ve owned many buffs in my life and, when I’m outdoors, the Polar Buff is most definitely my favorite. It has a SPF 50 and has fleece at the bottom and microfiber at the top, making it the perfect accessory to keep both your neck and face warm in chilly temperatures. It’s also moisture-wicking and quick-drying, and can be worn in over ten different ways!
Gloves: There are honestly so many warm, cozy gloves on the market that it’s hard to choose just one. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s PL Base Sense Gloves and the Outdoor Research Men’s PL Sensor Gloves . You need a glove that can withstand cold weather, is wind resistant, and offers touchscreen compatibility.

Fitness “On The Go” Essentials

I get asked all the time how I stay in shape while on the road. Whether I’m in a luxury hotel and eating my heart out, or camping and carb loading, I can’t say that it’s easy. But I will say that it takes conscious effort every single day. I’ve learned to say no to two $0.25 ice cream cones in the same day, as tempting as it is! I also implement a strict workout routine, which has gotten infinitely easier since I started using LiveKick Fitness. They specialize in one-on-one personal training and private yoga done via live video — think FaceTime but for fitness! You can choose your (highly qualified) instructor for a time that works for you, no matter where you live in the world! I’ve done everything from high intensity exercise in my ocean view hotel in Australia to yoga in my office at home in the States. And the best part is, you don’t need access to a gym or any equipment if you don’t want! You could try out LiveKick Fitness here, and be sure to use the code “FIVEFOOTTRAVELER15” for 15% off your LiveKick plan! Other than being armed with my LiveKick Fitness App, I travel with –

on video in real time with livekick fitness - a personal trainer and a yoga instructor

Screen cap of my LiveKick personal training (left) & yoga (right)

Resistance Loop Exercise Bands – I started using looped resistance bands when I injured my knee two years ago, but it’s a fantastic addition to any workout when you’re a new exerciser or an exercise junkie. I use these largely for strength training and physical therapy.
Flat Exercise Bands – Flat exercise bands give you a few more options, which allows you to truly get a full body workout whenever you want.
Rumble Roller – My 12-inch RumbleRoller is one of my favorite things that I pack, when I have the space! Nothing feels better than this spiky foam roller after a good hike or exercise.
Cross-Training Shoe – I’ve made the mistake many times of doing aerobics and weight-lifting in a running sneaker, which just isn’t good for you! The Nike Air Bella’s are light-weight and comfortable trainers.
Running Shoe – If you’re also a runner though, I’d recommend packing your running shoes too. Maybe you’ll be luckier than I and could find a one-shoe-fits-all for you though! I’ve worn Brooks Ghost sneakers for many years now and I’ve been quite happy with them.
Travel Yoga Mat – I always wanted the ability to be able to stretch anytime, anywhere, which led me to research travel-sized yoga mats. The Plyopic Travel Yoga Mat is both lightweight, eco-friendly, and foldable so that you can bring it wherever you need.

Reading Essentials

Beach reads are always necessary. Sometimes it’s nice to get lost in a good story and enjoy a book with a view. While I could individually summarize these books, I think it’s best if you check them out yourself to see which one is best for you 🙂 Here are some of my favorite travel books –

girl sits on bench reading her kindle in front of the mountains

It may not be the beach, but I thought it was a great spot to read!

Love with a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche
What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding by Kristin Newman
Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
On the Road by Jack Kerouac
In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Drink, Play, F@#k by Bob Sullivan
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

If you feel like being slightly more intellectual on your vacation, I highly recommend these excellent entrepreneur books:

Expert Secrets by Russel Brunson (#1 recommended biz book!)
DotCom Secrets by Russel Brunson
177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class by Steve Siebold
How to Make Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck by Mark Manson
Ca$hvertising by Drew Eric Whitman

Business Management Essentials

More and more frequently you will find people on the road who have the freedom to work remotely. If you are a business owner, or wannabe business owner, these are my absolutely necessary softwares and systems needed to keep my business running online, even when I’m not in front of my computer. Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean that you need to stop making money 🙂

Working remotely on the beach in Australia

ClickFunnels – Whether you run an online business or you’re looking to become a digital nomad, ClickFunnels is an absolute must! This software helps you great the highest converting sales funnels amongst many, many other incredible features. They offer a free Affiliate Bootcamp that I highly recommend going through if you’re new to the online space. If you aren’t new to working online, and haven’t checked out ClickFunnels though, you can grab your free trial here. Email me if you do, and I will share with you my top converting sales funnel.
GetResponse – Email marketing is key to success. No matter what business you’re in, you need the ability to directly reach out to your followers or consumers without every having to think about social media algorithms. Through email marketing you can get your audience to know, like, and trust you… and ultimately buy from you. And the beauty of this is that if you’re on a trip, you can set up an email autoresponder series to continually bring in sales without you having to even open up your computer! GetResponse is free for under 1,000 email contacts, and have incredibly reasonable rates after that given the service they provide. You can sign up for your free account here.
BlueHost – Do you have a blog or website? It needs to be hosted somewhere to be kept safe! Your web host ensures that your site continues to run smoothly and backs up your site daily should anything go wrong; it’s your website’s safety shield. BlueHost offers incredibly low rates, and I’m able to give them to you for even lower. You can purchase your BlueHost web hosting for just $3.95/month here!
ClickMagick – I personally never click on an “ugly” link – a link that has a ton of numbers and letters and seemingly goes on forever. ClickMagick allows you to turn those long ugly links into short, clean URLs using your domain name. You can grab your ClickMagick account here.
Later – If you’re wondering how people post to Instagram on the go or have beautifully crafted Instagram feeds, it’s likely because they use a tool to help them get organized. I first discovered Later last year and have used them ever since to help schedule, analyze, and organize my accounts. Because they’re an official partner of Instagram, you can craft your posts and then schedule them to be automatically posted to Instagram! And the best part is, it’s free! Set up your free account here.
TailWind – If you understand the value of Pinterest for your business, TailWind is an absolute must. It allows you to easily schedule out your Pins and re-Pin from others in your niche. You can adjust your settings so that you auto-Pin throughout the day, without having to sit in front of your phone or computer the whole time! Pinterest is a huge driver of traffic to websites, so it’s important that you take advantage of its benefits. TailWind is also free, and you can claim your account here.
LiveLeap – Are you someone who likes to go live on social media a lot, either to showcase what your business has to offer or to show off your latest vacation? LiveLeap allows you to live stream on Facebook across multiple pages, which can increase your views ten times more than without it! So if you stream on your business page, you can also connect it to your personal page and Facebook group so that your live video goes live on all of those pages at once. It’s a great way to expand your reach! You can set up your account here.

I hope that this list of travel essentials didn’t overwhelm you! I obviously travel full-time and am always over-prepared, so you just need to pick and choose which of these items is most important for the type of trip that you are preparing for. I wish you the best of luck with packing… as I sure as heck know how much we BOTH need it! As you pack and prepare for your next trip, please let me know in the comments below if I missed any important travel essentials.

girls sits on rocks with four penguins on her south africa vacation

I'll leave you with some penguins – and a great travel hat!

In the meantime, please ensure that you purchase travel insurance before you leave! Of all of these travel essentials, t ravel insurance is arguably the most important thing to have on hand (after your passports and visas). I’ve had to use my travel insurance multiple times on the road, even though I’m healthy. You never know when something might happen; take comfort in knowing that whether your flight gets cancelled or you wind up sick and in the hospital, you will be covered. I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance for all of you. You can get a free quote here.

Pin “137 Travel Essentials” For Later!

The only thing I would add is: a few zip lock bags. I’ve done a lot of travelling…roadtrips, backpacking in Europe, rail and air travel, and won’t go anywhere without them. You never know when something will start leaking, or you have leftover snacks, or need a waterproof place to stash your phone or pocket camera. They take no space at all, and never say “I told you so!” when you do need one.

YES! Great tip! I always have them on me too 🙂

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Hi, I’m Sarah!

Hello World! I’m Sarah Gallo, The Five Foot Traveler, and I choose to dream out loud. After conquering a crippling fear of flying, I’ve developed an unquenchable passion for traveling. Since my newfound freedom, I have set foot on all seven continents, explored 114 countries, and continue to strive to live life to the fullest. Continue Reading…

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TRAVEL TIPS

The Ultimate Guide To Packing The Right Things For A One Day Trip

It’s every travel lover’s dream to travel the world and explore new places. What many people don’t realize is that travel can be a source of adventure, excitement, and memories for people of all ages. Though it’s rare (and difficult) to be able to travel for long periods of time, even traveling for a single day can be fun and worthwhile!

In order to make your trip go smoothly, it is crucial that you pack the right things for your destination. The following article will list some essentials that everyone should always take with them on a one-day or overnight trip.

A Trusty Backpack

The very beginning of a trip starts by packing for it, and what better storage to have for a day’s adventure than a backpack. A travel backpack usually has compartments that can be used to store things quickly and easily, without the hassle of rummaging through your bag to find what you need. The best travel backpack is lightweight yet made out of strong material to make it durable enough to carry your personal items on your adventure! You should not overburden it because even a trusty backpack can break at one point – but either way, you don’t need a lot of stuff with you for only one day.

Depending on where you are going you will need different things. If you will be walking out in the woods the entire day then bring something waterproof to cover the rucksack in case of rain. On the other hand, if you plan on sightseeing in a busy city center then having some sort of locking mechanism to protect your things from theft is needed. In short, travel backpacks are a must-have item for travel as it helps you travel with ease and keep your things secure.

Food and Water

You should travel with high-energy snacks and water – or some sort of food and drink that will give you stamina and refreshment. A travel-sized bottle of water can be very convenient so you don’t have to buy bottled water every time you travel out. Carry some snacks that are travel-friendly like travel bars or travel packs of dried fruits and nuts. You can also carry food that needs little preparation, just in case you get hungry on the road and need something quick to munch on!

Planning on a full three-course meal sounds nice until you realize how much more gear you would need to carry. If you are really feeling that hungry – go to a restaurant. But a one-day trip, especially if you don’t plan on stopping, doesn’t give much room for a luxurious meal. Instead, figure out what’s most travel-friendly for you, stick to it, and don’t look back!

Petty Cash and Documents

When you travel carry an appropriate amount of small change for necessary travel expenses. Keep the change separate in a zippable pouch if it is made out of metal, or just keep it in your pocket if it’s paper money. This way you won’t lose track of the coins and they will be easy to access when you need them.

A travel wallet is recommended so that important travel documents like tickets, boarding passes, etc are all kept securely together. You can even put banknotes here but make sure you keep photocopies of all travel-related information at home so that there will be no confusion in case something goes wrong! There should also be space available for travel insurance information (if valid) and other documentation specific to your trip.

This is especially important if traveling abroad. You may need travel insurance or some sort of permit to show to authorities if asked. For travel abroad, you will also need your travel documents like passport and visa on hand! So don’t forget to carry these with you in a wallet, or another safe and convenient place.

Going Camping?

If you are planning on camping out for the night, travel with tents and sleeping bags! Small tents roll up neatly into small travel-sized cases that can be easily carried around on your adventure. When setting up the accommodation make sure to stake down all of the corners to prevent strong winds from taking it away! Make sure there is some sort of lock for added protection in case someone tries to steal your stuff while you sleep.

Don’t forget a pillow and blankets! Nights outside can become uncomfortably cold for those who are not used to them, and a single outing is not worth catching a cold that will last for a week.

Maps and Brochures

Don’t travel without a map! Even if you have an itinerary, know how to navigate where you are going. You can get lost easily in a new city and it’s always good to be familiar with the area when traveling. You can buy maps from tourist agencies near your destination before setting off or download travel apps on your phone! It will help a great deal in case something unexpected happens.

Also, remember travel brochures that highlight what there is to see and do at each place you visit. Local agencies have very useful pamphlets with important information about attractions nearby – so use them for reference! They also usually offer discounts or special deals for travelers, so keep an eye out for these when passing by their offices. After all, if a trip is to last only a single day then you don’t have a lot of time to explore the area. Instead, you should have done your homework and come prepared to see and experience the best of the best.

Packing for travel can be stressful. You don’t want to forget anything important, but the last thing you want is to overpack and carry around a giant bag all day long. Hopefully, this article has provided some guidance on how to pack the right things in order to make your travel plans go smoothly! A one-day trip can be a wonderful experience, either in an attractive city or out in beautiful nature, and preparing accordingly is just a simple step in order for everything to go as planned.

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Vacation packing lists: essentials you can't forget.

These vacation packing lists can help you prepare for any type of trip.

Vacation Packing List

An open suitcase packed for holiday on bed at home, coronavirus concept.

Getty Images

Getting ready for a vacation is a fun yet at times daunting task. But with some preparation and a comprehensive checklist, the packing process for any adventure can be easy. To make it smoother, our editors compiled these vacation packing lists, using insights from their own experiences and advice from travel experts.

Vacation packing lists:

Beach packing list, cruise packing list, international trip packing list, road trip packing list, weekend getaway packing list.

Time by the water and sand calls for cool and comfortable attire that dries fast and works for the types of activities you're planning to do. When planning your beach packing list , check with your accommodations to see what they will have available to use during your stay.

Start with a beach bag that perhaps can double as a personal item bag. Beach days call for sun protection, so you'll want plenty of sunscreen – and depending on where you're going, reef-safe sunscreen may be required, so do your research before you pack. Beach towels or blankets , chairs , umbrellas or beach tents , toys , and games are all items that you might be able to use during your visit, but may not need to pack in your suitcase.

Clothing and shoes:

Beach cover-ups
Dinner attire such as linen shirts, skirts or pants
Water shoes
Undergarments

Toiletries:

Conditioner
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hairbrush or comb
Razor and shaving cream
Lip balm with SPF
Medications
Cotton swabs
First-aid kit
Aloe vera or after-sun lotion

Beach gear:

Beach wagon
Beach towels
Towel clips
Umbrella or beach tent
Reusable water bottle
Prescription eyeglasses or contacts
Beach games
Portable speaker
Reading material

When creating your cruise packing list , keep in mind that you'll have limited space in your cabin, so it's essential to plan a wardrobe that is concise and multipurpose. Consult your itinerary to see what specific items you may need for any theme nights or dress codes for dining reservations. Select a personal item bag that you'll carry on the cruise with you, equipped with essentials like your passport, money, medications, a change of clothing and anything you may need while you're awaiting your bags.

For daytime attire, consider the climate, as well as excursions and activities so you know what items you'll need. Check out our guide on what to wear on a cruise for more inspiration.

Mix-and-match clothing
Formal attire
Themed party attire
Travel wrap
Packable jacket
Packable hats
Underwear and necessary undergarments
Comfortable walking shoes
2-3 pairs of pants
2-3 pairs of shorts
5-7 tops or shirts of different styles
Swim cover-up
Sea-Bands and/or Dramamine for nausea
Reef-safe sunscreen
After-sun lotion
Face cleanser
Hand sanitizer
Toilet spray like Poo-Pourri

Cruise gear:

Credit cards and local currency
Carry-on bag
Packing cubes
International travel adapter or converter
Magnetic hooks
Garment bag and wrinkle release spray
Beach bag or backpack
Over-the-door organizer
Digital luggage scale
Collapsible luggage
Luggage tracker
A good book or e-reader

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Traveling abroad is exciting, but it can also bring long travel days with more walking than you may anticipate. Having a broken-in pair of comfortable walking shoes is key, and you may want to consider a pair of compression socks to keep you comfortable on the long flight.

A carry-on suitcase that can accommodate everything you need will be helpful when you're trying to navigate through airports and train stations – and it'll make it easier to get to your room if there's not an elevator. You may also want to consider a foldable tote for daytime trips and shopping, which you can also use for any souvenirs you want to bring home.

Walking shoes
Rain jacket
Sweater or cardigan for layering
2-3 pairs of pants with pockets
2-3 pairs of shorts (depending on climate)
3-6 shirts or tops
An evening/dinner outfit (such as a dress or skirt and top for women, and pants and a button-down shirt for men)
Facial cleanser and moisturizer
First-aid kit with bandages

Travel gear:

Passport wallet
Travel documents
Travel adapter or converter
Neck pillow

Hitting the open road is a fun adventure, though it requires some preparation. Since you're driving, you'll have extra room for bags and gear, but you'll also want to pack road trip essentials . Climate will play a big role in the types of clothes you'll want to pack, so look at the forecasts for weather on your entire route. In addition to temps, you'll be sitting in the car for long periods of time, so your travel outfits should be comfortable and easy to wear (for those quick bathroom breaks at a wayside rest).

2-3 pairs of pants or shorts (depending on climate)
Light jacket or sweater
Comfortable shoes
4-6 pairs of socks
Specific clothing for plans along the way, like hiking boots for hikes

Road trip gear:

Car emergency kit
Solar rechargeable power source for phones
Neck pillow(s)
Book or tablet
Packable tote

Adventures on the Dolomites: family together

Preparing for a quick weekend getaway might seem like it'll be easy, but since you'll only be gone a few days, you might find it difficult to decide what to pack. Finding a functional weekender bag can help you make the packing process easy. Choose a pair of shoes to travel and a second pair to change into for the evening or specific activities. When planning your outfits, create a mix-and-match capsule wardrobe so you're not overpacking for a quick getaway.

2-3 shirts or tops
2 pairs of pants or shorts
Dress or dress pants and dress shirt for evening
Light jacket or cardigan
Versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down
Toiletry bag
Weekender bag or carry-on suitcase
Travel journal
Packable tote for shopping
Refillable water bottle

Vacation essentials:

Purse or tote
Book or e-reader

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag) should be sufficient.

For cold weather vacations, consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . If you'll be attending dinners or formal celebrations, you might want to use a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing.

Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.

Rolling method Ideal for saving space and helping prevent clothes from wrinkling, this method involves rolling each piece of clothing. You begin this process by laying each item at flat as possible, and then roll the piece of clothing into a log shape. Repeat the process for each item and place them into your suitcase.

Packing cubes If you like to save space and keep your items organized while traveling, packing cubes are the perfect multitasker. Purchase a mix of packing cubes in various sizes or colors (or both) and decide if you want to arrange clothes by type or by outfit. Pack the cubes accordingly, and if you really want to save space, consider compression packing cubes .

Bundling method This way works well for those who like to pack outfits together. You'll put together an outfit, starting with the smallest items first (like socks and underwear), then wrapping the shirt/top around it. Next, wrap the pants, skirt or dress to create a folded bundle that you will then pack. You'll then repeat the process for each outfit. When you're on vacation, you can select the outfit you want to wear and have all of the items in one place.

Wrapping method This works best if you have clothes of mixed lengths and widths. You begin by placing the longest or widest clothes at the bottom of your suitcase, layer clothes in order of largest to smallest. Once all clothing is in, take the ends of the largest layers and wrap inward to encase the clothes within your suitcase.

When packing for a week, consider the climate, activities and styles of clothing you'll need. As easy as it is to overpack, it's also easy to leave a key item at home that may have you frustrated or unable to do something you really wanted to do.

Clothing for a seven-day trip:

3-5 outfits
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of versatile shoes to wear at dressier meals or locations
Activity-specific shoes for hiking, biking, working out or doing water activities
Cardigan or layer piece for temperature variances
7-10 pairs of underwear
Required undergarments like a strapless bra or nylons
5-7 pairs of socks
Rain jacket or warm coat (depending on climate)
Personal item bag that can double as an in-destination tote
Passport (if leaving the country)
Wallet with driver's license or identification
Credit cards

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag , a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote . She used her personal experience along with her retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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A List of Everything You Need to Pack for a One Day Trip

With spring break coming up , we barely have time to plan in detail, fully ahead of time for a long trip. With everyone having busy months of work, short, quick, and spontaneous day trips are what many people are going for.

Your friend wants you packed lightly and out of the door in an hour, what do you pack for a short road trip and a one night stay at a place just outside the city?

This packing list is for you to open up the next time you're stuck with time and in need of a quick tight pack:

1. A moderate amount of snacks for the road.

2. 2 outfit options besides the one you have on, and if you're going somewhere near a beach or a pool, you'll need a swimsuit of course. Oh! and don't forget underwear and Pajama's.

3. Towels, try to pick thin ones that are easy to fold.

4. This is the time where you pull out those empty and tiny, travel-friendly bottles , fill them up with all the toiletries you must have with you.

5. If you don't feel like packing a cleanser or makeup remover, you may be excused to use makeup wipes just for one day. (PS: I will not be held accountable for that piece of advice)

6. Don't pack a lot of makeup , you won't end up using any. Just take a mascara, concealer, and lipstick, if you end up going out at night.

7. Tooth brush and toothpaste.

8. Sunglasses and a spare one.

9. Electronics, chargers, a speaker, headphones and your phone obviously... I've learned that the hard way.

10. Deodorant, It's almost summer, come on people.

11. Sunscreen, now normally I would say this shouldn't leave your handbag. In this scenario, it is not an option for you to leave this one behind!

12. Hair stuff, brush, ties, and pins.

13. Dry Shampoo, if you decide to ditch the shower.

14. Flipflops / Shoes.

15. I usually don't leave the house without this one but please get some essential Meds with you, just in case there aren't any pharmacies nearby.

I know this might sound a lot, but when you actually start packing it could fit in a small carry on or a big backpack.

TIP: Before you even start packing, share with your friends what you'll each be getting so you don't end up having similar things and taking up more space.

Main Image Credits: Instagram @jeannedamas

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Travel Tips

How To Plan A One-Day Trip With A Date

Published: November 17, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Winnie Hazelton

Plan Your Trip
Romantic Vacations

Introduction

Planning a one-day trip with a date can be an exciting and memorable experience. Whether you’re in the early stages of a relationship or looking to surprise your long-time partner, a day trip allows you to spend quality time together, explore a new place, and create lasting memories.

However, to ensure a successful outing, it’s important to plan ahead and consider various factors. From choosing the perfect destination to preparing for unforeseen circumstances, careful preparation is key to a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of planning a one-day trip with your date. We’ll provide you with helpful tips and advice on selecting the right destination, creating an itinerary, researching activities and attractions, arranging transportation, making dining reservations, packing essentials, checking the weather, ensuring safety and comfort, and even creating a playlist to enhance the mood of your trip.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled adventure, planning a one-day trip with your date can be an opportunity to strengthen your bond and create new shared experiences. So, let’s dive in and discover how to plan the perfect one-day trip with your special someone.

Step 1: Choose the Perfect Destination

The first step in planning your one-day trip with your date is to choose the perfect destination. The destination you select will set the tone for the entire trip and determine the activities and experiences available to you.

Consider your preferences and those of your date. Are you looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, a bustling city adventure, or a historical and cultural exploration? Discuss your interests and desires with your date to ensure you select a destination that you both will enjoy.

Research various locations and take into account the distance and travel time. It’s important to choose a destination that is easily accessible within a day’s journey. This will maximize the time you can spend together and minimize the time spent in transit.

Another factor to consider is the season and weather conditions. If you’re planning an outdoor-focused date, such as a hike or a beach picnic, make sure the weather is suitable for your chosen activities. Check the forecast in advance and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

Additionally, consider the budget for your trip. While a one-day excursion may not require a significant financial investment, it’s still important to plan ahead and estimate the costs of transportation, activities, meals, and any other expenses you may incur.

Lastly, think about the ambiance and atmosphere you want to create. Are you looking for a romantic setting or something more adventurous and exciting? The destination you choose should align with the mood and experience you want to create for your date.

Keep in mind that choosing the perfect destination is subjective and unique to you and your date’s preferences. Take your time to do thorough research and consider all factors before finalizing your decision. By selecting a destination that appeals to both of you, you’re setting the groundwork for a remarkable one-day trip with your date.

Step 2: Plan Your Itinerary

Once you have chosen the perfect destination for your one-day trip, it’s time to plan your itinerary. Having a well-structured plan will ensure that you make the most of your limited time and create a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your date.

Start by determining the duration of your trip. Consider any time constraints you may have, such as work schedules or other commitments, and plan accordingly. This will help you allocate your time effectively and ensure you can experience the highlights of your chosen destination.

Next, research the must-see attractions and activities in the area. Look for popular landmarks, scenic spots, local markets, museums, or any other attractions that align with your interests. Make a list of the places you want to visit and prioritize them based on their significance and your personal preferences.

Consider the logistics of your itinerary. Take into account the opening and closing times of the attractions, as well as any travel time between them. You want to make sure you have enough time to fully enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

While it’s important to plan your itinerary, leave room for flexibility and spontaneity. Allow for some free time to explore the surroundings, stumble upon hidden gems, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere with your date. It’s these unplanned moments that often make for the most cherished memories.

As you plan your itinerary, also consider the energy levels and interests of both you and your date. Balance out the activities to cater to both adventurous and relaxing preferences. If one of you enjoys outdoor adventures while the other prefers cultural experiences, find a way to incorporate both into your plan.

Lastly, keep in mind that the purpose of your one-day trip is to spend quality time together. Avoid overpacking your itinerary and overwhelming yourselves with too many activities. Allow for moments of connection and intimacy, such as enjoying a leisurely meal together or strolling hand in hand through a scenic park.

By carefully planning your itinerary, you can ensure that your one-day trip offers a well-rounded and fulfilling experience for both you and your date. It sets the groundwork for an unforgettable adventure and creates a roadmap for the memories you will create together.

Step 3: Research Activities and Attractions

Researching activities and attractions is a crucial step in planning your one-day trip with your date. It allows you to discover unique experiences, hidden gems, and local favorites that will make your adventure truly special.

Start by exploring the popular attractions and landmarks in your chosen destination. Check out travel websites, guidebooks, and online forums to get an idea of the must-see spots. Consider iconic landmarks, historical sites, or natural wonders that are unique to the area.

Don’t limit yourself to just the well-known attractions. Dig deeper and look for off-the-beaten-path activities that reflect the local culture and lifestyle. Discover local markets, festivals, or events that might be happening during your visit.

Consider the interests and preferences of both you and your date. Are you both food lovers? Look for food tours or cooking classes in the area. If you’re outdoor enthusiasts, explore hiking trails, bike rentals, or water activities that the destination has to offer.

Read reviews and testimonials from fellow travelers to gauge the quality and suitability of various activities and attractions. Look for authentic and immersive experiences that will create lasting memories for you and your date.

Consider the timing of your visit when researching activities and attractions. Check if there are any seasonal events or festivals happening during your trip. This will allow you to immerse yourselves in the local culture and enjoy unique experiences specific to that time of year.

Remember to consider the physical capabilities and limitations of both you and your date. Ensure that the activities and attractions you choose are suitable for your fitness level and any health conditions you or your date may have.

Lastly, don’t forget to factor in budget considerations when researching activities and attractions. Look for free or low-cost options, as well as any discounts or special offers that may be available. This will help you make the most of your budget while still enjoying all that your destination has to offer.

By conducting thorough research on activities and attractions, you can curate a unique and tailored experience for you and your date. This step allows you to uncover hidden gems and experiences that will make your one-day trip truly unforgettable.

Step 4: Prepare Transportation

When planning your one-day trip with your date, it’s important to consider transportation arrangements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Choosing the right mode of transportation and making necessary preparations will contribute to a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.

First, decide on the mode of transportation that best suits your needs and preferences. If your destination is within a reasonable distance, you may opt for a car or motorcycle ride. This offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore different areas at your own pace.

Alternatively, if your destination is further away, consider public transportation such as trains or buses. These can be more cost-effective and provide an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery together during the journey.

Remember to plan your transportation schedule in advance. Check the departure and arrival times to ensure they align with your desired itinerary. Factor in any potential traffic or delays that may arise, so you can arrive at your destination on time.

If you’re choosing public transportation, research and book your tickets ahead of time to secure your seats. Some modes of transportation offer discounted fares for advance bookings or off-peak travel times. Taking advantage of these options can help you save money and avoid last-minute disappointments.

If you’re driving to your destination, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Check the tires, brakes, and fluid levels to ensure a safe and reliable trip. Consider filling up the gas tank the night before to avoid any unnecessary delays on the day of your trip.

Don’t forget to prepare navigation aids such as GPS devices or download map apps on your phone. These will help you navigate unfamiliar roads and ensure you don’t get lost along the way.

Lastly, if your destination requires parking or has limited parking availability, look for nearby parking options in advance. This will save you time and stress when you arrive, as you won’t have to search for parking spots on the spot.

By preparing transportation arrangements ahead of time, you can focus on enjoying the journey with your date rather than worrying about logistics. Whether you choose to drive or utilize public transportation, a well-planned transportation strategy sets the stage for a successful and enjoyable one-day trip.

Step 5: Make Dining Reservations

As you plan your one-day trip with your date, don’t forget to make dining reservations to ensure a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a cozy café, or a trendy food hotspot, securing a table in advance will save you time and ensure you have a delightful dining experience.

Start by researching the local dining scene in your chosen destination. Look for restaurants that offer cuisines you and your date enjoy or that have received positive reviews from other diners.

Consider the type of dining experience you want to have. Are you looking for a fine dining establishment to celebrate a special occasion, or perhaps a casual eatery with a laid-back atmosphere? Knowing your preferences will help you select the right restaurant for your date.

Check the availability and operating hours of your desired restaurants. Some popular eateries may require reservations well in advance, especially during peak hours or weekends. Making a reservation ensures that you have a table waiting for you, and avoids the disappointment of being turned away due to a fully booked restaurant.

If you’re unsure about where to make your dining reservations, don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from locals or fellow travelers. They can provide valuable insights and suggest hidden gems that you might not find through a simple online search.

Consider the ambiance and atmosphere of the restaurant you want to dine at. Are you looking for a romantic setting with soft lighting and intimate seating, or a lively spot with music and a vibrant crowd? Matching the ambiance to the mood and vibe you want to create will enhance the overall dining experience.

Remember to inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions or allergies you or your date may have. This will allow them to accommodate your needs and ensure a pleasant dining experience for both of you.

Finally, when making your reservation, be sure to note any special requirements or requests. This could include seating preferences, a special occasion you’re celebrating, or any specific instructions you have for the staff.

By making dining reservations ahead of time, you can guarantee a delightful culinary experience during your one-day trip. It adds a touch of sophistication and ensures that you and your date can relax and enjoy a memorable meal together.

Step 6: Pack Essentials for the Day

As you prepare for your one-day trip with your date, it’s essential to pack the right essentials to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. From practical items to personal belongings, careful packing will help you stay prepared and make the most of your day.

Start by considering the weather forecast for your destination. Pack appropriate clothing to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day. If it’s going to be sunny, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats to protect yourselves from the sun’s rays. On the other hand, if it’s expected to be rainy or cold, bring jackets, umbrellas, and extra layers to stay warm and dry.

Think about the activities you have planned and pack accordingly. If you’re planning to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking or biking, bring comfortable shoes, water bottles, and snacks for sustenance. If you’ll be visiting museums or cultural sites, consider bringing a small bag to carry essentials like a camera, guidebook, or hand sanitizer.

It’s always a good idea to have some basic first aid items on hand as well. Carry a small kit with essentials such as band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary medication you or your date may require.

Don’t forget to pack some snacks and water to keep you energized throughout the day. Having a few munchies on hand will save you from hunger pangs and allow you to stay focused on enjoying your time together.

Bring a small bag or backpack to carry your essentials. Opt for something comfortable and lightweight that won’t weigh you down as you explore. Ensure that it has enough compartments to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.

Pack a portable charger or extra batteries for your electronic devices, especially if you plan on using your phone for navigation, taking photos, or staying connected throughout the day.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring some cash and a form of identification. While many places accept cards, having cash on hand can be helpful for smaller establishments or unforeseen circumstances. Identification is essential in case of any emergencies or for age verification purposes.

By packing the essentials for your one-day trip, you’ll be prepared for any situation and can fully enjoy your adventure with your date. Make a checklist in advance to ensure you don’t forget any important items, and double-check before you leave to ensure you have everything you need.

Step 7: Confirm Weather Conditions

One of the crucial steps in planning your one-day trip with your date is to confirm the weather conditions for your chosen destination. Checking the weather forecast in advance ensures that you can make necessary adjustments to your itinerary and pack accordingly.

Use reliable weather forecasting sources to get accurate and up-to-date information about the expected weather conditions. Check the forecast for the day of your trip as well as any changes in weather patterns throughout the day.

Understanding the weather conditions can help you plan your activities accordingly. For example, if it’s going to be a hot day, plan activities that offer shade or involve water-based activities to keep cool. If it’s going to be rainy, consider indoor attractions or have a backup plan for indoor activities.

Take note of any extreme weather conditions such as storms or heavy snowfall. In such situations, it’s important to prioritize safety and adjust your plans accordingly. Consider rescheduling your trip if the weather conditions pose a risk to your well-being.

Confirming the weather conditions also allows you to pack appropriately. If it’s going to be sunny, make sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection. If it’s expected to be cool, bring extra layers or jackets to stay warm.

Keep in mind that weather forecasts are not always 100% accurate, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for unexpected changes. Pack versatile clothing options that can be layered or removed depending on the temperature fluctuations.

Remember to regularly check the weather conditions leading up to your trip. Weather forecasts can change, especially for long-term plans, so stay updated to make any necessary adjustments to your itinerary.

If you find that the weather conditions are not ideal for your planned activities, don’t let it dampen your spirits. Embrace the flexibility and be open to exploring alternative options or adjusting your plans on the go. Sometimes, unexpected weather can lead to unique and memorable experiences.

By confirming the weather conditions, you can be well-prepared and adapt to any changes that may arise during your one-day trip with your date. It ensures that you can make the most of your time together and have a memorable experience, regardless of the weather.

Step 8: Ensure Safety and Comfort

When embarking on a one-day trip with your date, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and comfort to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Taking necessary precautions will not only give you peace of mind but also contribute to creating a memorable and worry-free outing.

Research the safety measures and guidelines for your chosen destination. Familiarize yourself with any potential hazards or risks that may be present, such as steep hiking trails or areas prone to pickpocketing. This knowledge will help you plan accordingly and take necessary precautions.

Pack a basic first aid kit with essential items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. It’s better to be prepared for minor injuries or discomforts that may occur during your trip.

Ensure that you and your date have appropriate footwear and clothing for the activities you plan to engage in. Comfortable shoes that provide support and clothing that allows for ease of movement will make your day more enjoyable.

If you’re exploring outdoors or participating in adventure activities, consider bringing along necessary safety gear such as helmets, life jackets, or hiking poles. Prioritize your safety and don’t hesitate to use the appropriate gear when needed.

Stay hydrated throughout the day by carrying water bottles or staying hydrated at regular intervals. Dehydration can quickly dampen the mood, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially in warmer weather.

Stay connected by carrying a fully charged mobile phone with emergency contacts saved. Establish a meeting point or have a plan for communication in case you and your date get separated.

Inform someone you trust about your plans and whereabouts. Share your itinerary and let them know the estimated time of your return. It’s always good to have someone aware of your trip in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Listen to your body and your date’s signals. Take breaks when needed, rest, and have nourishing meals to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day. Look out for each other and communicate openly to address any discomfort or concerns that may arise.

Lastly, trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn’t feel right or you sense any potential danger, trust your intuition and take necessary actions to ensure your safety and the safety of your date.

By taking the necessary measures to ensure safety and comfort, you can fully enjoy your one-day trip with your date. Prioritizing these aspects will create a sense of well-being and allow you to focus on creating lasting memories together.

Step 9: Create a Playlist or Mixtape

Music has a magical way of setting the mood and enhancing the overall experience of a one-day trip with your date. Creating a playlist or mixtape can add a personal touch and make your journey more memorable and enjoyable.

Start by considering the musical preferences and tastes of both you and your date. Are you both fans of a particular genre or artist? Do you have favorite songs that hold sentimental value? Discuss your musical interests and gather input from each other to create a playlist that reflects your shared musical preferences.

Think about the ambiance and vibe you want to create during your trip. Are you aiming for a romantic atmosphere with mellow love songs, or a fun and energetic playlist that keeps the spirits high? Tailor your song choices to match the mood and overall experience you want to have.

Consider the timing of your trip and the sequence of activities you have planned. Adjust the playlist accordingly to match the different phases of your day. Choose upbeat tunes for active moments and mellower tracks for relaxing or scenic parts of your journey.

Include a mix of classic favorites and new discoveries to keep the playlist interesting. This allows you and your date to connect through shared nostalgia and discover new music together.

Take advantage of music streaming platforms or create a customized mixtape that you can play during your trip. Pay attention to the flow of songs and ensure a seamless listening experience by arranging the playlist in a way that feels harmonious and thoughtfully curated.

Consider adding a few surprise tracks or dedications to make the playlist more special. Include songs that hold significance in your relationship or lyrics that convey your feelings for each other. These small gestures can make the trip even more meaningful and memorable.

Remember to come prepared with the necessary equipment to play your playlist. If you’re using a streaming platform, make sure you have a stable internet connection or have downloaded the songs offline beforehand. If you’re using a physical mixtape, have a portable music player or a car with a functioning CD or cassette player.

Be flexible with your playlist and open to changing it if necessary. Sometimes the mood or atmosphere of your trip might call for different music choices. Feel free to improvise and add or remove songs as the day unfolds.

By creating a playlist or mixtape, you can infuse your one-day trip with the power of music. It adds a personal touch, sets the mood, and creates a memorable soundtrack for you and your date to enjoy as you explore and create new memories together.

Step 10: Enjoy the One-Day Trip with Your Date

After putting in all the effort to plan and prepare for your one-day trip with your date, it’s time to relax, be present, and fully enjoy the experience. The final step is all about embracing the moment, creating memories, and cherishing the time spent together.

Be mindful and fully present in each activity and location. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings, the flavors of the food, and the company of your date. Engage in meaningful conversations, share laughter, and connect on a deeper level.

Embrace spontaneity and follow your instincts. If you stumble upon a hidden gem or an unexpected attraction along the way, don’t hesitate to explore it together. Let go of rigid schedules and allow for moments of serendipity.

Take pictures to capture the special moments throughout the day. These photographs will serve as vivid reminders of your one-day trip and the emotions you shared. However, remember to balance capturing memories with living in the moment, as too much focus on photography can sometimes distract from fully experiencing the present.

Taste the local cuisine and indulge in delicious meals together. Trying new dishes and flavors can be an adventure in itself. Go beyond your comfort zones and be willing to taste something new and exciting.

Immerse yourselves in the local culture and engage with the community. Talk to locals, learn about their traditions, and take part in any local activities or events happening during your trip. This will allow you to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination.

Allow for moments of relaxation and downtime. Take breaks when needed to recharge and rejuvenate. Find a serene spot to sit and enjoy the surroundings, or simply take a leisurely stroll hand in hand with your date.

Be open to adjusting your plans. Sometimes unexpected changes or delays can occur, and it’s important to be flexible and adaptable. Embrace these changes as part of the adventure and make the most of the situation.

Express gratitude towards your date for sharing this special day with you. Let them know how much you appreciate their company and the effort they put into making the trip a memorable one. Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way in deepening your connection.

Finally, cherish the memories you create together. Reflect on the adventures, laughter, and meaningful moments shared during your one-day trip. Remember that the true essence of the experience lies in the connection you formed and the quality time spent with your date.

By following these steps and fully embracing the one-day trip with your date, you can create a memorable and meaningful experience. Enjoy the journey, savor every moment, and make lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Planning a one-day trip with your date can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your trip is well-organized, enjoyable, and filled with wonderful memories. From choosing the perfect destination to creating a meaningful playlist, each step plays a vital role in creating a remarkable day for you and your date.

Remember to communicate openly with your date throughout the planning process. Understanding each other’s interests, preferences, and expectations will help you create a trip that caters to both of your needs. Flexibility and spontaneity are also key to embracing unexpected moments and making the most of your time together.

As you embark on your one-day trip, prioritize safety, comfort, and connection. Take the necessary precautions, pack essentials, and remain mindful of each other’s well-being. Stay present in the moment, allowing for genuine connections and shared experiences.

Ultimately, the success of your one-day trip lies in the quality time spent with your date and the memories you create together. Cherish these moments, laugh, explore, and savor each experience. Allow the trip to strengthen your bond and create lasting memories that you’ll both treasure.

Remember, this guide is just a starting point. Feel free to add your personal touch, explore new ideas, and adapt the steps to suit your unique relationship and preferences. With careful planning, an adventurous spirit, and an open heart, your one-day trip with your date is sure to be an extraordinary experience that deepens your connection and creates cherished memories for years to come.

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Plan Your Trip to Ulyanovsk Oblast: Best of Ulyanovsk Oblast Tourism. By Andrey_MOKEEV. 107. Ulyanovsk Oblast, Russia. Essential Ulyanovsk Oblast. Pick a category to filter your recs. Essentials. Family friendly. Museums. Outdoors. Arts & theater. Nightlife. History. Wine & beer. Things to do. See all. Museum of the Civil Aviation History. 242.
Ulyanovsk
Ulyanovsk, [a] known until 1924 as Simbirsk, [b] is a city and the administrative center of Ulyanovsk Oblast, Russia, located on the Volga River 705 kilometers (438 mi) east of Moscow.Ulyanovsk has been the only Russian UNESCO City of Literature since 2015.. The city was the birthplace of Vladimir Lenin (born Ulyanov), for whom it was renamed after his death in 1924; and of Alexander Kerensky ...

What to Pack for a 1-Day Trip: Your Complete Checklist [2023]

Table of Contents

How do you pack for a one-night trip?

What should I pack for a last-minute trip?

What all should I pack for my trip?

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Day Trip Packing List Essentials

These bags are day trip essentials

Backpack

Shoulder Bag

Day trip packing list

Camera or phone for photos

Portable charger and cable

Water bottle

Waterproof jacket with a hood (so you don’t need to carry an umbrella)

Sunglasses

Snacks

Guidebook

Personal care items

Hand sanitizer

Lip balm

Wet wipes, tissues, and toilet seat covers

Miscellaneous first aid

Tickets for train or attractions/sites

Spare cash, credit cards, and debit card if you need more cash

ID, wallet, keys, etc.

Other tips for your day trip

Wear the proper shoes

Confirm all reservations

Final thoughts on the day trip packing list

Related packing list articles:

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What to Pack for a 1 Day Trip: 18 Essential Things to pack for a stress-free Travel day

What to Pack for a 1 Day Trip?

Day Trip Packing List Essentials

1. Snacks and Munchies

2. 2 Separate Outfits

3. Keys and IDs

4. Shoes and Flip-flops

5. Toiletry Bag

6. Sunscreen

7. Deodorant and Perfume

8. Medicines and First-aid Kit

9. Soft Towels

10. Spare cash, Wallet, and ATM Cards

11. Phone and Charger

12. Reusable Water Bottle

13. Headphones

14. Backpack

Voluntary Things to Pack for a Day Trip

1. Power Bank

2. Soaps and Shampoos

4. Sunglasses

What do you Think of This Packing List for One Day Trip?

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