Embarking on an international adventure is an exhilarating experience, but the key to a smooth journey lies in smart and strategic packing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore essential packing tips for traveling abroad, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any destination, climate, or cultural encounter.

Before you start packing for your international trip…

Research your travel destination.

Before you start packing, conduct thorough research on your destination. Consider the local weather, cultural norms, and any specific travel advisories. This information will guide your packing decisions and help you tailor your wardrobe and accessories accordingly. For example, if Europe is on my summer travel bucket list, I know that summers in Europe are warm. However, the temperatures might change based on the countries or the regions where you are going, with some regions being chillier than others. So, ask yourself questions like: 

• What is the weather like in Paris in July?
• How high do temperatures go in the Algarves (Portugal) in June? 

There are a lot of resources online that you can check out to make sure you fully know what to expect when you travel to different international destinations. 

Another great packing tip for traveling abroad is being aware of cultural considerations. Beyond the weather, the culture of the country where you are going would determine what you pack and what you wear. For instance, if you are traveling to primarily muslim countries, social customs require that you are covered in public spaces. So, consider packing shawls, long dresses and blouses with sleeves. When traveling, it is important to respect the social norms and customs of your host country. Remember, traveling means that you are a guest at someone’s home.

Packing tips for traveling abroad, based on your sightseeing activities

What you pack when you travel abroad also depends on what you plan on doing at your destination. Whether it’s hiking, beachcombing, or exploring urban landscapes, it’s important to dress appropriately and even more important, comfortably!

One thing that has helped me when packing for all my international trip is having a detailed packing list for vacation. By referring to a comprehensive packing list, I know that I can check all the boxes for all the things that I need when I travel, and I know that there is almost no chance for me forgetting any important element when packing. You can get the same international travel packing lists that I use to plan my travels around the world. These lists include packing lists based on the weather, the world region (the destination where you are going), the activities, and even the time of the year when you are going! These are some of the most comprehensive packing lists that you will see out there. I have designed them from 10+ years of experience traveling around 30+ countries, and can’t wait for them to be your new “organized” travel companion moving forward!

Packing Tips for Traveling Abroad #1: Create a Master Packing List for Vacation

Crafting a comprehensive packing list is the cornerstone of a well-organized journey. In my international travel packing lists, I break down everything you need for your trip in different categories, to ensure that you don’t overlook any essential items. Key categories that you will find there include:

• Travel clothes and looks: always have versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, suitable for different occasions and weather conditions.
• Travel toiletries: These include travel-sized essentials, including toothpaste, shampoo, and skincare products. Consider sustainable and eco-friendly options.
• Travel electronics: Chargers, adapters, and essential gadgets for capturing memories and staying connected.
• Travel documents: Passports, visas, travel insurance documentation/cards, and any required vaccination certificates that you need (based on the destination).

You can access my international travel packing list here, and make it your best companion for your upcoming trips around the world!

Packing Tips for Traveling abroad #2: Keep your toiletries “travel-size”!

When it comes to packing toiletries for traveling abroad, the key is to keep it light, both in spirit and in your suitcase. Opt for travel-sized versions of your favorite shampoos, conditioners, and toothpaste to save precious space and comply with those tricky airline regulations. Invest in a sturdy toiletry bag with compartments to prevent any accidental “leakathons.” I have a list of travel-size bottles that I have used for several international trips (including the Caribbean and Europe), and they have never failed me!

Pro-tip: Secure your liquid treasures in resealable plastic bags for an extra layer of protection. And remember, most destinations offer local stores, so unless you’re venturing to the depths of the Amazon, you can always grab necessities on the go. Your toiletries might be small, but their impact on your travel comfort is mighty.

Packing Tips for Traveling abroad #3: Maximize your luggage space!

When going for an international trip (especially for the first time), you will most likely travel with a checked-in bag (or two), unless you want to be bold and courageous and dare to go with only a carryon and a personal item, like I did for my recent European summer travel experience! However, to allow yourself to carry as much as you want or need, you need to maximize the space in your suitcase. This comes with selecting the best suitcases for international travel: those with ample space, a sturdy make, a light weight and comfortable rolling wheels.  Other good items that you might want to experiment with include packing cubes and compression bags, which tend to be popular among travelers. Personally, I generally roll my clothes, and by tucking some products in shoes and bags, I always manage to optimize space and keep everything organized. You can see an example of what it looks like when I pack for my international trips in this video. 

Packing tips for traveling abroad #4: Secure Valuables in your carry-on.

Valuables should always be kept in your carryon, and your carryon should always be with you. These include things like electronics and travel documents. In addition to these, I always have an extra pair of clothes, socks and undergarments in my carryon in case my checked in bags get delayed. Packing a carryon is a whole different ball game that requires strategy, but luckily you have me on your corner and can use all my tips for how to pack your carryon for an international trip!

In addition, consider packing emergency essentials: these include a basic first aid kit, any necessary medications, and photocopies of important documents in case of emergencies. These elements (and many others are included in my packing list for vacation that you can find here!

Additional Packing Tips for Traveling Abroad that you might find useful!

Before zipping up your suitcase, consider these additional tips and reminders for a seamless international travel experience.

• Pack a reusable water bottle: this helps you to stay hydrated while reducing single-use plastic waste. You can keep this in your personal item (backpack or handbag) or in your carry-on. 
• Check luggage restrictions: as airlines have slightly varying baggage policies, make sure you check the luggage size limits for the airlines you are traveling with, to avoid surprises and additional fees.  To make it even easier for you, here is my list of best suitcases you should consider for your international trips. 
• Leave space for souvenirs: Plan for extra space in your luggage to bring back unique mementos from your travels.
• Consider luggage locks: Invest in TSA-approved locks to secure your luggage and deter unauthorized access.

So, as you prepare for your first international trip, I hope that these packing tips for traveling abroad help ease your travel packing process! I have no doubt that equipped with this + my favourite packing list for vacation, you’ll become a packing expert in no time! By the way, have you checked out the best way to pack your carryon?