While I only just took my first trip to Europe earlier this year, I consider myself a pro at packing a carry-on and making sure that I am bringing only the essentials. I love traveling anywhere, no matter the distance, and going abroad is such a surreal experience. As a lover of history, being in cities that have been around for as long as they have, such as Barcelona being founded by the Romans in the 1st Century BC and seeing ruins from those times on some of our stops, was truly unbelievable. That said, I spent time thinking through what to wear on the flight and what to pack so that I made sure my outfits were versatile and ensured that I had my important items without overpacking. So, today, I am sharing a guide with travel tips for how to carefully pack for an international trip.
How to Pack for an International Trip
Pack a Change of Clothing in Your Carry-On
While I made a decision years ago not to check a bag, I have also had a few scenarios where the airline has checked my bag at the gate. So, I always pack a change of clothing in my trusty Lo & Sons bag that I carry on the plane if anything happens to my luggage. I also make sure my toothbrush, glasses, contacts, and essential skin care are easily accessible in that bag as well.
Wear a Versatile Outfit on the Plane
My go-to outfit on a plane during cooler seasons is a pair of black leggings, a tunic sweater over a thin t-shirt, and a pair of sneakers. I also bring a scarf or wrap (this one in camel has been my go-to for a couple of years) that can double as a blanket on the plane and add a layer while exploring if needed. If it is a warmer season, I’ll ditch the tunic sweater and still go with all the items!
Roll Your Clothes
This has been the biggest way for me to save space in addition to using packing cubes and a laundry bag for dirty items. I have also found that rolling my clothing helps with wrinkling, which is an added bonus. Another thing to do when rolling clothes is to add a piece of tissue paper to help with static and wrinkles.
Keep Your Travel Documents Handy
I always travel with my crossbody bag and keep my travel documents, identification, debit card, and credit card since it is easily accessible. My credit card has a $0 exchange rate making it perfect for an international trip and I keep my debit card handy for stateside expenses as well.
Pack Liquids in a Leakproof Bag
Whether it is a ziplock bag or a TSA-approved bag, this is a must to keep liquids separated from clothing and other important items. I learned this very valuable lesson after running several clothing items on a trip where I did not adhere to this tip.
Check TSA Rules for International Flights
Before your trip, do a little research on what countries require for travel. This will ensure a smoother departure and arrival through customs and that you have everything you need.
Pack Your Tried & True Shoes (and Clothes)
I made a rule of not packing anything new after a particularly painful shoe trip to New York City a few years ago. If you have ever checked out any of my travel articles, you may notice a lot of the same items and those are because I know that I can wear them for extended periods comfortably and confidently.
Pack Multi-Purpose Items
When I am packing, I always make a daily outfit list that includes if I plan on changing in the evening. It helps make sure I pack multi-purpose items which prevents me from overpacking and helps me make sure that I do not pack “just-in-case” items.
International Trip Packing List
Here is an international travel checklist for all the travel essentials such as documents, toiletries, clothing, and miscellaneous items you might need when packing for your trip.
Essential Items
- Passport
- Boarding Pass(es)
- Travel First Aid Kit
- Debit Card/Credit Card
- Important to note that I didn’t exchange any cash for Euros on my trip because everything was contactless. That feels important to check before traveling
- Travel Itinerary
- A Plan for Leaving the Airport
- Travel Insurance Documentation (if you bought this)
- Repeat or Travel Medication
Electronics & Other Gadgets
- Cell Phone & Charger
- Smart Watch & Charger
- Tablet or E-Reader & Charger
- I either listen to audiobooks or bring a hardback for a flight
- Headphones & Charger (if wireless)
- These are the ones David and I have
- Plug Adapters
Clothes & Shoes
Essentials
- PJs/Sleepwear
- Undergarments
- Socks
- Robe
- This is non-negotiable for my packing list
Clothing & Shoes
- Raincoat
- Wrap or Scarf
- This one in camel is the one I always bring with me on trips
- Sweaters, weight dependent on climate, season
- Denim
- I like this style for a more modern, versatile option
- Leggings
- Lightweight Tops
- Sneakers
- This is my favorite pair to wear because they are washable. Use this link for
- Boots
- I wear a pair of combat boots when traveling knowing I am walking a lot. If hiking is on the itinerary, I bring these as my hiking boots.
- Depending on the itinerary:
- Swimsuit & coverup + sandals
- Cold weather gear
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Jewelry
- This is my tip for transitioning tops and sweaters from day to night
- Belt
Cosmetics & Other Toiletries
I stock up on travel-sized products during sales, add them on when getting free items from Nordstrom, and keep items from the bags that I get from Aillea during their bonus bag time.
- Sunscreen
- Deodorant
- Body Lotion
- Body Wash
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- SPF Lip Balm
- Aquaphor
- The heavy-duty product that is good for a variety of uses
- Hairbrush
- Styling Cream
- Make-Up & Remover
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Disposable Wipes
- Nail File
- Tweezers
- Face Spray
- Great for use on the plane and to set make-up
- Contacts & Glasses
Miscellaneous
- Painkillers
- Earplugs
- Refillable Bottle
- Travel Neck Pillow
- Snacks
International Trip Packing Checklist
Here is an international travel packing that you can download for your own use. I kept it generic for universal travel purposes.
Here is my go-to weekend trip packing list for a getaway with my girlfriends and my NYC packing list.
Shop Packing Tips for International Travel Here
