The Ultimate Packing List Guide: What to Pack for Any Trip
Packing is the least exciting part of travel, but doing it right can make or break your trip. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about packing for any destination, climate, or trip length.
The Foundation: Universal Packing Essentials
These items belong in every suitcase, regardless of destination:
Documents & Money
✅ Passport (check expiration!)
✅ Visa documents if required
✅ Travel insurance info
✅ Credit/debit cards
✅ Cash in local currency
✅ Copies of important documents
Tech Essentials
✅ Phone + charger
✅ Universal power adapter
✅ Portable battery pack
✅ Headphones
✅ Camera (if not using phone)
Health & Safety
✅ Prescription medications
✅ Basic first aid kit
✅ Hand sanitizer
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Any allergy medications
Packing by Climate
Tropical / Beach Destinations
Essential additions:
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Swimwear (2-3 pieces)
Reef-safe sunscreen
Wide-brim hat
Insect repellent
Flip flops and water shoes
Light rain jacket
Pro tip: Pack clothes that dry quickly—humidity is real!
Cold Weather / Winter
Essential additions:
Layering pieces (thermal base, mid-layer, outer shell)
Warm waterproof jacket
Insulated boots
Warm hat, gloves, scarf
Thermal underwear
Wool socks
Pro tip: Layers beat bulk. One puffy jacket + layers is better than three heavy coats.
Mixed/Temperate Climates
Essential additions:
Versatile layers
Light jacket + packable rain layer
Comfortable walking shoes
Mix of short and long sleeves
One dressy outfit
Pro tip: Check the 10-day forecast before finalizing your packing.
Packing by Trip Length
Weekend Trip (2-3 days)
2 complete outfits
1 versatile piece that works for day/night
Minimal toiletries (travel sizes)
Carry-on only if possible
Week-Long Trip (5-7 days)
4-5 outfits with mix-and-match pieces
1-2 dressy options
Full toiletry kit
Consider laundry access
Extended Trip (2+ weeks)
7-10 days worth of clothing (plan to do laundry)
Laundry supplies (detergent pods, travel clothesline)
Larger toiletry supplies
Extra medication supply
The Capsule Wardrobe Approach
Pack smarter with interchangeable pieces:
The Formula
3 bottoms (jeans, shorts, versatile pants)
5-6 tops (mix casual and nicer options)
1-2 outer layers
1 dressy piece
3 pairs shoes (walking, casual, dressy/hiking)
Why it works: 6 tops × 3 bottoms = 18 outfit combinations!
Toiletry Packing Tips
Carry-On Friendly
Use containers under 3.4oz/100ml
Solid alternatives (shampoo bars, solid deodorant)
Multi-use products
Checked Bag
Full-size products in leak-proof bags
Stock up on sunscreen/skincare at destination
Packing Organization Hacks
Use Packing Cubes
Separate by type (tops, bottoms, underwear)
Or by day/outfit
Compress bulky items
Roll, Don't Fold
Saves space
Reduces wrinkles
Easier to see everything
The "Outfit Bundle" Method
Roll complete outfits together:
1. Layer shirt, underwear, socks
2. Roll together
3. Each bundle = one day
What NOT to Pack
Save space by leaving behind:
❌ "Just in case" items you've never needed
❌ More than 2-3 pairs of shoes
❌ Full-size toiletries for short trips
❌ Expensive jewelry
❌ Too many electronics
❌ Bulky guidebooks (use apps!)
Go-Via's Smart Packing Feature
Good news! Go-Via now includes an AI-powered packing list generator that creates a customized list based on:
Your destination's weather
Trip length
Planned activities
Your preferences
Generate your trip itinerary with Go-Via, and get a personalized packing list automatically!
Create Your Trip + Packing List →
Final Pre-Trip Checklist
Before you leave:
[ ] Check passport expiration
[ ] Notify bank of travel
[ ] Arrange pet/plant care
[ ] Hold mail
[ ] Share itinerary with someone
[ ] Download offline maps
[ ] Charge all devices
[ ] Check airline baggage limits
Happy Packing!
Remember: it's better to pack light and buy something if needed than to lug around unused items. When in doubt, leave it out!
*Go-Via is a free AI trip planner that now includes personalized packing lists. Plan your trip and your suitcase in one place.*