If you’re planning for a trip, you’ve probably researched dozens of packing lists to make sure you bring everything you need (and leave behind the things you don’t). This list should help make your job a little easier!
Documents
- Boarding pass
- Passport
- Copy of complete flight itinerary
- Copy of any transportation or accommodation plans you have made for arrival
- Physical address of where you are staying: You will need this to complete immigration forms and it may be helpful to share with cab drivers as well so they can easily look up directions.
- Printouts confirming you have paid for an electronic visa just in case.
Place the documents in the order in which you may need them and put them in a sturdy folder.
Bath & Body
- Hand lotion
- Lip Moisturiser
- Deodorant
- Contact solution (if you wear contact lenses)
- Toothbrush and mini-toothpaste
- Bath wipes to help you freshen up
- Face wipes or mini bottle of face wash and wash cloth
Aeroplanes dry the skin out quite a bit, so lotion and lip care will help keep you moisturised.
*Please keep in mind the airline regulations regarding liquid container size.
Food & Drink
- Meal and/or snacks, including the items below. You may want to pack food in case the food on the plane just doesn’t quite cut it. Natural peanut butter on gluten free bread, granola/muesli bars or protein bars are an easy go-to.
- Fruit: Usually an apple as they travel well.
- Water bottle: Buy one after passing through security, or if you can wait, bring an empty bottle from home (you can bring this through security) and fill up on the plane.
- Vitamins + electrolytes packet
Napping
- Ear plugs
- Eye mask
- Long haul: oral sleep aid, your own pillow and blanket
Instead of a travel blanket, invest in a Turkish towel, which can be used as a towel, blanket, scarf, etc.
Entertainment
- Laptop/ iPad with movies and games
- iPod (or your music player of choice)
- Kindle (or similar) to read books without weighing down your bag
Clothing
- Underwear
- 1-2 shirts (change of clothes)
- Your favourite “I would HATE to lose this” article of clothing
- Something new
- Outfit for special occasion
Be mindful of the clothing you pack in my checked bag. It’s all replaceable, of course, but pack with the thought that ‘I may not see my bag again’. At the very least, pack an extra pair of underwear and one shirt. If you’re packing a new or favourite article of clothing, roll them as small as possible and make room in the bag.
Clothing
- Jewellery
- Wallet with credit cards and other important cards
- Money
- Camera equipment
- Phone and car keys
Always pack valuables in your carry-on bags. If you plan to sleep or find that your bag is stowed far away from your seat (due to a full flight), you may wish to bring your valuable items closer to you *or lock your bag
Best of the rest
- Guidebook to destination: Haven’t planned what you’ll do the first day or two yet? There’s plenty of time to do so on the plane.
- Paper and pen: Creative brainstorming sessions often happen in transit. And, you’ll probably want a pen to fill out immigration papers on board.
- Medication or supplements *be mindful of your destination country’s protocol on medication and accompanying scripts or paperwork
Everyone has different needs and travel styles, and your list may vary based on your destination, length of trip, and if you’re travelling with only carry-on bags.
Credit: Her Packing List
