Traveling is meant to be fun, but packing can often feel like a challenge. In this guide, I present my top tips for packing efficiently and effectively. I’ve updated this information to provide you with even more insights, including helpful videos to illustrate my advice. With these packing tips, you can spend less time organising your bags and more time enjoying your travels. Remember, traveling should never feel like a chore because of packing!

Get Informed

Before you travel, research the local dress code of your destination. While standing out can be fine, most travelers prefer not to look like tourists. In Europe, for example, the standard attire typically includes jeans and sneakers. I love wearing dresses, so I embraced my style throughout Europe, even if it drew some stares. However, be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting places like cathedrals, where appropriate attire is required. For women, this often means covered shoulders and dresses below the knee. In some countries, a headscarf may also be necessary. Understanding these dress codes is crucial to avoid being denied entry.

Check the Weather

Weather plays a significant role in your packing. Always check the forecast for your travel dates. I recommend using AccuWeather—simply click here to find your city and stay informed.

Travel Light

Avoid the hassle of excess luggage, especially with low-cost airlines like Ryanair, which charge for overweight bags. Pack only what you truly need.

Pack with Activities in Mind

Plan your outfits based on your itinerary. Heading to the beach? Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, sandals, and sunglasses. Attending a formal event like the opera? Make sure to pack evening wear. This way, you won’t need to buy anything last-minute.

Invest in Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable shoes are essential for travel. If you don’t have a good pair, consider investing in one. You’ll likely do a lot of walking, and the last thing you want is blistered feet. Check that your shoes are waterproof, especially if you’re traveling in winter or plan to hike. I learned this the hard way during a rainy day trip to Paris with non-waterproof boots. Aim to pack three pairs of shoes: sneakers, sandals, and formal shoes. Use the space inside your shoes to store smaller items like socks.

Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes not only saves space but also reduces creasing. For a helpful how-to video, click here: How to Roll Clothes.

Know the Baggage Policy

Familiarise yourself with the baggage policies of your airline, as well as any train or bus services you’ll be using.

Choose Versatile Clothing

Opt for versatile clothing items. Many women’s clothing options can double as skirts, dresses, or scarves. I used a handbag that could adjust in size based on my outfit. While versatile items can be great, you don’t need to buy new ones. Packing scarves, wraps, and neutral colours allows for easy mixing and matching. Basic items like black or blue jeans, t-shirts, and a little black dress can be dressed up with accessories. For beach trips, consider a sarong instead of a bulky towel, as they are more versatile and take up less space. For inspiration, check out this YouTube video on transforming a single piece of fabric into multiple outfits: Transformative Fashion.

Do Your Laundry on the Go

You may have the option to wash your clothes during your travels. Pack laundry detergent (washing powder) and a sink stopper for convenience. If you prefer, you can buy these items upon arrival. If laundry services are too expensive, washing your clothes in a sink can be a practical solution.

Choose Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics

Opt for fabrics that are less prone to wrinkling, fabrics like wool and nylon are good options. Alternatively, consider bringing a travel steamer to smooth out any creases. However, if that feels like too much effort, simply select wrinkle-resistant clothing.

Start Packing Early

Begin your packing process early to avoid last-minute stress. Rushing can lead to forgotten items, so give yourself plenty of time.

Organise Your Fabrics

To minimise creasing, pack softer fabrics at the bottom of your suitcase and place heavier items like jeans on top. This layering technique can help keep your clothes looking fresh.

Maximise Your Hand Luggage

You can bring a standard-sized backpack as your hand luggage, which can also be useful for exploring your destination. If you find backpacks too touristy, consider a medium sling bag instead. Additionally, smaller backpacks can be more comfortable if you’re on the shorter side.

In your hand luggage, pack an extra outfit in case your checked luggage goes missing. It’s also wise to store all your important valuables— think documents, jewellery, and electronic devices— in your hand luggage for extra security.

Opt for Hard Bar Soap and Shampoo

Whenever possible, use hard bar soap and solid shampoo to minimise liquid spills. If you prefer liquids, ensure there are no air bubbles in the containers to avoid leaks that could ruin your luggage.

Essential Travel Hygiene Items

Always carry wet wipes, dry shampoo, dental gum, and deodorant in your hand luggage. If you’re traveling long distances, freshening up in a tiny bathroom might be all you have time for. During my travels, I sometimes had only ten minutes at gas stations to brush my teeth and freshen up, and wet wipes and dry shampoo saved me from feeling unclean.

Travel-Sized Toiletries

Using travel-sized toiletries is practical for day trips and weekend getaways. Carrying large bottles of shampoo can be cumbersome and annoying.

Layer Your Clothing

Pack clothes that can be layered, for example T-shirts to wear under shirts and lightweight shawls or cardigans. I always carried a long grey wool cardigan, which served multiple purposes: I wore it at night, tied it around my waist, used it as a blanket during travel, and even as a makeshift pillow on hard seats. For more in-depth layering tips, check out this link.

Create a Packing List

Make a detailed list of everything you intend to pack and check off items as you go. This method helps prevent forgetting essential items.

Stay Organised

While many suggest using packing cubes, I find ziplock bags more versatile for separating items that could spill. They are practical and help keep your belongings organised.

Bring an Extra Bag

Consider taking a canvas or duffel bag for souvenirs. This extra bag can be checked in on your return trip, allowing you to leave room for new purchases.

Rainproof Your Packing

After packing your clothes, fold a black bag on top to protect them from rain in case you arrive in wet weather.

Manage Wet Swimwear

Don’t forget to bring plastic bags or a shower cap for storing wet swimwear. They are also useful for separating dirty clothes.

Donate Unwanted Clothes

During my year studying in Germany, I often travelled and accumulated extra clothes. Instead of tossing them, I donated items I didn’t want to take back home. Consider donating rather than discarding; a quick online search can help you find local donation centres.

May your packing be a breeze! I’d love to hear your packing tips, so feel free to share. I’ll happily add them to this list while crediting you.

Happy travels! 😊