Forgetting your phone charger is annoying. Forgetting your passport ruins the trip. A good packing list for travelling abroad takes the stress out of getting ready and makes sure you arrive with everything you need. Here is our complete checklist, section by section – save it, print it, or tick it off on your phone.
Documents
- Passport: check that it is valid for at least six months beyond your return date – many countries require it. See our guide to passport validity before flights.
- Visa or travel authorisation: such as an ESTA for the US or an ETA for the UK, if your destination requires one.
- Flight tickets and boarding passes: saved in the airline app, with a screenshot or printout as a backup.
- Travel insurance: a comprehensive policy for medical emergencies and lost property. Our travel insurance tips explain what to look for.
- Driving licence: plus an international driving permit if you plan to rent a car and your destination requires one.
- Hotel and car hire confirmations: saved offline.
- Copies of everything: keep photos of your passport and documents in your email or cloud storage.
Money and payment
- Cash: a small amount in the local currency for taxis and tips on arrival.
- Credit or debit cards: let your bank know you are travelling, and check foreign transaction fees.
- A backup card: stored separately from your main wallet.
Tech and electronics
- Phone and charger, plus a power bank for days out.
- Data plan: set up an eSIM for travelling abroad before you leave.
- Plug adapter: check the socket type at your destination.
- Headphones: noise-cancelling ones are a lifesaver on long flights.
- Laptop or tablet: if you plan to work or watch films.
Clothing
- Clothes suited to the weather at your destination – check the forecast a few days before.
- Enough underwear and socks, or plan to do laundry on longer trips.
- Comfortable walking shoes – you will walk more than you think.
- A light jacket or sweater, even for warm destinations (planes and air conditioning get cold).
- Swimwear for the beach or pool.
- One smarter outfit for dinners or events.
Toiletries and personal care
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo, conditioner and soap (or plan to use the hotel’s)
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Any special skincare or contact lens products
Remember that liquids in your carry-on usually have to be in containers of up to 100 ml in a clear bag.
Medication and first aid
- Prescription medicines for the whole trip, plus a few extra days – keep them in your hand luggage.
- Painkillers and fever reducers.
- Plasters and antiseptic.
- Motion sickness and stomach remedies.
- A copy of your prescriptions, especially for controlled medicines.
Extras that make the journey easier
- Neck pillow, eye mask and earplugs for sleeping on the plane.
- Reusable water bottle: fill it after security.
- Hat and sunglasses.
- Compact umbrella.
- A book or downloaded films and podcasts.
- Snacks: especially useful with children.
Smart packing tips
- Know your baggage allowance: low-cost airlines are strict – see our guide to low-cost airlines.
- Weigh your suitcase at home to avoid fees at the airport.
- Pack valuables in your carry-on: never check in medicines, electronics, jewellery or documents.
- Use packing cubes: they save space and keep things organised.
- Leave a little room for souvenirs.
Write your list in advance and go over it once more before you leave the house. For the bag you keep with you on board, see 7 essential items for your carry-on, and if you are flying with little ones, read our guide to flying with a baby.
