An issue that we all worry about: "How to Pack My Bags for My next Trip?" Robin with assistance from her friend (ChatGPT), has written this post to help you address your packing issues.
Contents
- 1 Personal Experience Story "Packing My Bags" - From Robin:
- 2 Packing for an International Trip
- 3 International Travel Tips #1 Start with the Right Bag
- 4 International Travel Tips #2 Consider Using a Luggage Cover Protector
- 5 International Travel Tips #3 Organize Your Travel Documents and Paperwork
- 6 International Travel Tips #4 Pack Clothing Items with Strategy
- 7 International Travel Tips #5 Is Rolling Clothes Actually Effective?
- 8 International Travel Tips #6 Use Packing Cubes and Compression Bags
- 9 International Travel Tips #7 Prepare Your Toiletry Bag Wisely
- 10 International Travel Tips #8 Pack Smart for Long Flights
- 11 International Travel Tips #9 Packing Hacks for Cruise
- 12 International Travel Tips #10 Electronics and Adapters
- 13 International Travel Tips #11 Money, Currency, and Safety Items
- 14 International Travel Tips #12 Pack Light for a Stress-Free Travel Experience
- 15 International Travel Tips #13 Packing My Bags - Luggage Scales
- 16 International Travel Tips #14 Packing My Bags - GPS Tracker for Luggage
- 17 International Travel Tips #15 Packing My Bags - Luggage Tags
- 18 International Travel Tips #16 Packing Golf Bags - Sunday Carry Golf Bags
- 19 International Travel Tips #17 Too Much Baggage? Consider Using a Baggage Forwarding Service
- 20 International Travel Tips #18 Build a Comprehensive Travel Packing List
- 21 Summary
Personal Experience Story "Packing My Bags" - From Robin:
I always feel great when I can say "all my bags are packed". However, I struggle with packing my bags. There is a fine line between packing too much and not having what you wished you had packed. Bringing most or all of what you will need (or wish you had packed) can be an ongoing packing challenge for many people.
To help you, we have created a list of eighteen (18) different international travel tips and have assembled a number of packing lists and other packing aids to assist you in your travel packing. We recently updated them in August 2026. They will help you think of things you should bring. We certainly hope you can help us continually improve these with your helpful feedback! Here are some of our ideas, and items you can purchase just by clicking on the links, that will help you with doing a better, less stressful "packing my bags". Please enjoy and follow the links and buttons to get what you need.
Packing for an International Trip
Packing for an international trip is one of the most exciting parts of travel planning—but it can also be one of the most stressful. Whether you’re preparing for a long flight, organizing your travel documents, or trying to fit a ton of space‑hogging clothing items into a single carry‑on bag, careful planning goes a long way. A well‑organized international travel checklist helps you stay calm, confident, and ready for your next adventure.
This comprehensive travel packing list brings together smart packing tips, essential travel gear, and practical advice for both short trips and longer trips. From choosing the right bag to managing important documents, you’ll learn different ways to pack light, stay safe, and enjoy a stress‑free travel experience.
International Travel Tips #1 Start with the Right Bag
Your entire journey becomes easier when you choose the right bag. Major airlines have different weight limits and size restrictions, so always check your carrier’s rules before you start packing.
Carry-On Bag vs. Checked Bag
A well-packed carry-on is a good idea for international travel, especially if you’re flying budget airlines that charge extra for checked luggage. A carry-on bag gives you easy access to important things like travel documents, prescription medications, and essential toiletries. It also reduces the risk of lost luggage—something no traveler wants to deal with in a foreign country.
If you do check a bag, make sure your personal item or small backpack contains everything you need for long travel days: a change of clothes, travel-sized containers, personal hygiene essentials, and any electronic items you can’t replace easily. Computers, phones, tablet and batteries should not be backed in checked luggage.
Packing My Bags - 24 Inch Luggage Carry-On
It is worthwhile to use a suitcase with good roller wheels. A four-wheel luggage carry-on is better than two-wheel carry-on luggage, particularly on hard floor surfaces.
Tumi Carry On Bags are Cos's go-to bag. He traveled a lot during his career. A Tumi Carry-On, including the Tumi Monogram Patch, with Tumi Engraving, was his favorite. While a Tumi Carry-On is a little more expensive than the average 24-inch Luggage Carry-On, they are high quality, and you can buy them at Amazon, or directly at Tumi below.
This is my preferred carry-on bag. It is very sturdy and has served me well. There is a 5-year warranty. Unfortunately, I had to replace wheels, after the warranty expired, but the service was great as a local Tumi store was only a few miles away.
However, for the more cost-conscious buyer, we might suggest shopping at Marshalls. Marshalls has a great collection of less expensive quality luggage. For budget-oriented travelers you won't go wrong. We learned the hard way that the most expensive luggage isn't always the best. We bought two beautiful, and expensive, Delsey large pieces of luggage. Unfortunately, on one of our first trips with the new luggage, we found that the plastic holding the wheels cracked and there was no way to repair it, on both pieces of luggage.
Duffel Bags, Shoulder Bags, and Day Packs
Duffel bags are great for travelers who want flexibility and a ton of space. Shoulder bags and waist packs help keep small items close and secure, especially when navigating busy airports or religious sites where you may need quick access to local currency or your debit card.
A small day pack is perfect for daily excursions once you arrive. It’s lightweight, compact, and ideal for carrying water bottles, travel packs, and other essentials.
Having the right or wrong luggage can make or break a well-thought-out DIY travel plan. The first decision is whether you want to check your bag or bring everything as a carry on. Each has its pros and cons. If you are going for a longer time and/or have much to bring, you most likely will need to check your bag.
We have developed a suitcase and packing checklist that should help you with your packing requirements. Click the following button to select a free checklist to help you with your packing.
Suitcase and Packing Checklist
Also, until the restrictions lift, you will need to pack your liquids in small containers. In case you have questions such as "What is Hawaiian Airlines Carry-on Liquids Policy?", we suggest you check their website or other blogs that focus on those issues.
Backpacks
Robin used a Backpack that opens like a suitcase for years and finds it can fit quite a lot of her clothes. It completely zips open, so the contents are laid out horizontally like a regular suitcase, easy to find what you need.
This is a light backpack that robin loves.
Light, fold-up day packs are also helpful, especially if you are looking for something that you can use to carry items with you when you are walking and touring. G4Free makes a 1-lb backpack that folds up and is great to take with you on a hike or walk. You can get it at Amazon, click below:
Cos uses a really good backpack for his carry on. I think it also gives him a workout because he can fit a lot in it!
Anti Theft College Business Mens Backpacks with USB Charging Port 17.3 Gaming Computer Backpack for Women Men Black
That said, I'm intrigued by the under-seat suitcases which often have wheels rather than strapping on the backpack. Here is one that looks really good:
Great Smaller bag, actually fits under the seat infront of you.
International Travel Tips #2 Consider Using a Luggage Cover Protector
In the past we have used suitcase straps after having a zipper on one of our well-used suitcases fail. Being the nice-guy, happy travelers, we saw someone else who had the same problem. We were able to give him an extra strap that we had. Our most recent purchase however does away with the straps while protecting your luggage...luggage protector cover!
Protect your luggage. ever since we switched to using luggage covers, our luggage is looking much better.
International Travel Tips #3 Organize Your Travel Documents and Paperwork
International travel requires more paperwork than domestic trips. Keeping everything organized is essential.
Important Documents to Bring
-
Passport
-
Visa requirements (if applicable)
-
Travel insurance details
-
Credit cards and debit card
-
Local bank contact information
-
Hotel room confirmations
-
Rental cars reservations
-
Flight itineraries
-
Emergency contacts
Your travel documents should be stored in a single item that’s easy to access—like a money belt or a secure shoulder bag. This keeps everything safe and prevents last-minute panic at the airport.
Make Copies of Everything
Always carry digital and physical copies of your important documents. If your passport or credit cards are lost or stolen, having backups makes the recovery process much easier.
Today, all tickets and boarding passes are digital, so it can be easy just to use the digital boarding pass and not get a printed version. We may be old school, but if your phone goes dead at check-in time, it might just be a good idea to have that paper boarding pass.
International Travel Tips #4 Pack Clothing Items with Strategy
Packing clothing items for an overseas trip is all about versatility, weather conditions, and number of items. You don’t need to bring your entire closet—just versatile pieces that work in multiple outfits.
Choose Versatile Clothing
Versatile clothing helps you pack light while still having plenty of outfit options. Think neutral colors, breathable fabrics, and items that layer well.
Pairs of Pants and Pairs of Shoes
You rarely need more than:
-
Two pairs of pants
-
One pair of comfortable walking shoes
-
One pair of dressier shoes (optional)
Comfortable walking shoes go a long way during long trips, especially when exploring foreign country streets, markets, and historic sites.
Check the Weather Forecast
Weather conditions vary dramatically across regions. Always check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Summer travel may require lightweight clothing, while colder climates call for layers and bulkier items.
International Travel Tips #5 Is Rolling Clothes Actually Effective?
Rolling clothes is great for saving space, reducing wrinkles, and keeping your suitcase organized, especially when paired with packing cubes. It works best for:
-
T‑shirts
-
Shorts
-
Lightweight dresses
-
Activewear
-
Summer travel clothing
-
Thin fabrics
Rolled items fit neatly into compression packing cubes, giving you much space back in your carry‑on bag or duffel bag. It’s also an easy way to see all your clothing items at a glance without digging through layers.
When Rolling Isn’t Ideal
Rolling isn’t perfect for everything. Skip rolling when packing:
-
Bulky items (sweaters, hoodies, jeans)
-
Structured clothing (blazers, dress shirts)
-
Anything prone to deep creasing
These items are better folded flat or packed using the bundle wrapping method, which keeps them smoother and more compact.
Best Practice: Combine Techniques
The smartest travelers use a hybrid approach:
-
Roll lightweight, casual, or flexible clothing
-
Fold structured or bulky items
-
Compress everything with packing cubes
This gives you the best of all worlds—organization, space savings, and fewer wrinkles.
International Travel Tips #6 Use Packing Cubes and Compression Bags
Packing cubes are one of the easiest ways to stay organized. They help you separate clothing items, essential toiletries, and electronic items into neat categories.
Compression Packing Bags
Compression packing cubes are perfect for long trips or when you need to fit a number of items into a small space. They squeeze out excess air, giving you much space in your suitcase. Robin and Cos are on their second set of compression bags. The first were a less expensive model and the plastic was flimsy and require manual effort to get the air out. They upgraded the quality of the compression bags and purchased a more expensive version with an air pump. 100% improvement.
Why Packing Cubes Are a Good Idea
-
They keep your suitcase organized
-
They make it easy to find small items
-
They help you pack light
-
They reduce clutter in your hotel room
Travel Cubes are a great way to organize your packed items. We use them all the time.
International Travel Tips #7 Prepare Your Toiletry Bag Wisely
Your toiletry bag should contain essential toiletries and personal hygiene items you’ll need throughout your entire journey.
Travel-Sized Containers
Most major airlines require liquids to be in travel-sized containers. This includes:
-
Shampoo
-
Conditioner
-
Body wash
-
Lotion
-
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is especially important for long flights and busy airports.
Prescription Medications
Always pack prescription medications in your personal item. Never place them in your checked bag—lost luggage can quickly turn into a medical emergency.
Other Toiletry Essentials
-
Insect repellent
-
Travel size hair dryer (if needed)
-
Eye mask for long flights
-
Toothbrush and toothpaste
-
Deodorant
-
Razor
-
Sunscreen
International Travel Tips #8 Pack Smart for Long Flights
Long flights require comfort, convenience, and easy access to important things. Packing for a long flight is all about maximizing comfort and minimizing hassle. Keep your personal item stocked with essentials you’ll want easy access to—eye mask, hand sanitizer, prescription medications, travel-sized containers, and a change of clothes in case your checked bag is delayed. Use packing cubes to organize small items and compression packing cubes to save space in your carry-on bag. Always pack versatile clothing and limit bulky items to avoid weight limits imposed by major airlines. A reusable water bottle, universal travel adapter, and the right electronics make long travel days smoother, while keeping important documents in a money belt or shoulder bag ensures a stress-free airport experience.
Packing Hacks for Flying: What to Keep in Your Personal Item
-
Eye mask
-
Reusable water bottle
-
Snacks
-
Travel documents
-
Electronics
-
Change of clothes
-
Hand sanitizer
-
Travel insurance information
A well-packed personal item makes long travel days much easier. It also ensures you have everything you need if your checked bag is delayed.
International Travel Tips #9 Packing Hacks for Cruise
Cruise packing requires a slightly different strategy because you’re dealing with small cabin storage, varied weather conditions, and multiple activities in a single trip. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched and use packing cubes to keep clothing items organized in tight spaces. Bring essential toiletries, insect repellent, suntan lotion and travel-sized containers since cruise ship shops can be pricey. A small day pack is perfect for shore excursions, while a waist pack keeps your debit card, credit cards, and local currency secure when exploring foreign country ports. Don’t forget safety items, prescription medications, and important documents—having everything organized ensures a smooth, well-prepared vacation packing list for your entire journey.
International Travel Tips #10 Electronics and Adapters
International travel means dealing with different electrical systems. If you are like Cos and Robin, chances are you are carrying perhaps a half-dozen electronic devices or more that need to get charged every night. Don't forget the universal travel adapter or you may find yourself unable to charge your critical devices.
Universal Travel Adapter
A universal travel adapter is essential for charging your electronic items in a foreign country. It’s one of the most important travel essentials you can bring. Here a few that we suggest which you can order from Amazon:
We recommend getting this power strip for your next cruise. It meets all the cruise line rules for power strips.
Right Electronics to Pack
-
Phone
-
Laptop or tablet
-
Headphones
-
Camera
-
Chargers
-
Power bank
Pack only what you need. Electronic items take up space and add weight.
International Travel Tips #11 Money, Currency, and Safety Items
Managing money overseas requires preparation.
Local Currency
Always carry some local currency for small purchases, tips, and emergencies. While credit cards are widely accepted, some places—especially religious sites, markets, and rural areas—prefer cash.
Money Belt or Waist Pack
A money belt or waist pack keeps your valuables secure and hidden. It’s an easy way to protect your debit card, credit cards, and important documents.
Safety Items
-
Travel insurance
-
Emergency contact list
-
First-aid essentials
-
Copies of your passport
These items help you stay safe and prepared for unexpected situations.
International Travel Tips #12 Pack Light for a Stress-Free Travel Experience
Packing light is one of the best packing tips for international travel. It saves time, reduces stress, and makes your entire journey more enjoyable.
Easy Ways to Pack Light
-
Choose versatile pieces
-
Limit pairs of shoes
-
Use compression packing cubes
-
Stick to travel-sized containers
-
Avoid bulky items. If necessary, such as winter coats, sweaters and hats, wear them in the airport instead of packing.
-
Bring only essential toiletries
Packing light also helps you avoid weight limits imposed by major airlines.
International Travel Tips #13 Packing My Bags - Luggage Scales
Most airlines limit the weight of your checked suitcase (usually 50 pounds) and size (no longer than 62 linear inches). Some overseas airlines have different limits so you should be familiar with those rules when travelling. We bought our first and second at Luggage Scale - Amazon. A handheld suitcase scale is worthwhile; just make sure you put it in the checked luggage once you have the weight. We were pulled aside in the TSA lane because the agent was suspicious of the scale. Also, we know there are also good luggage weight scales at Target and Walmart.
We use this scale device all the time. It helps avoid an embarrassing situation at the airline check-in if you need to remove items from your luggage, or even worse you need to pay more for being overweight.
Our first luggage scale worked great until it needed a new battery...which required the use of a small screwdriver to remove the battery. We have since found a battery-free scale, charged by simply shaking the battery. Genius!
Unlike the first luggage scale we acquired, this one doesn't need a battery. You just shake it to get it charged. Unfortunately, it may be out of stock, as it is very popular.
International Travel Tips #14 Packing My Bags - GPS Tracker for Luggage
When you check your bag, there is that moment when you wonder if you will ever see your "stuff" again. More people are using a GPS tracker for luggage. We put a Tile Pro GPS Tracker in our checked bags which could help with locating lost luggage. Separately, we considered the Apple Air pod, but found that the Tile Pro will work with either Apple or Android. Lastly, we chose the Pro because it has a battery which can be replaced, usually after a year's use.
An essential item needed to track your luggage, your keys, or anything that might get lost.
International Travel Tips #15 Packing My Bags - Luggage Tags
Also helpful is to have distinctive luggage tags...until recently, we used colorful Christmas ribbon in addition to the luggage tag with contact information. Not only does this make it easy to locate your bag from a distance but it also prevents someone from accidentally taking your bag when they thought it was theirs. However, we recently replaced the Christmas ribbon with these great bright green aluminum luggage tags. They are attached with a stainless-steel wire which should be much more durable than the normal leather attachments.
Ever have a problem recognizing your luggage? These bright green luggage tags make it much easier to make sure you can easily find your luggage at the baggage claim.
In addition, we put our contact information inside the suitcase in case the outside one is lost.
International Travel Tips #16 Packing Golf Bags - Sunday Carry Golf Bags
Cos and Robin love to play golf when they travel. But who wants to drag two golf bags when you travel? We learned of a solution: pack two Sunday Carry Golf Bags in a single Golf Travel Bag.
However, we first asked a question: "What is a Sunday Golf Bag"? Well, we quickly learned that to be able to reduce the weight of our golf clubs and golf club bags, we needed to get a Sunday golf bag with stand, and we needed two that might fit in one travel bag. First, we thought we might find a Leather Sunday Golf bag, but no luck. Then we got lucky and found two at "Sunday Golf Bags - Amazon" and hoped they could fit in one golf travel bag. Here are the Sunday bags we bought, and they work just fine.
Robin and Cos like to carry their golf clubs when they travel. They have a large luggage bag that allows them to put two of these carry bags into one piece of luggage. great way to cut down on the number of luggage bags you need when you travel.
Then we found the perfect large travel bag, the Founders Club Golf Bag.
This bag can transport two small carry bags, perfect for reducing the amount of luggage you need to transport if you like to bring your clubs with you when you travel.
However, If you don't want to lug your clubs with you through the airport, or your ski equipment, we have another solution.
International Travel Tips #17 Too Much Baggage? Consider Using a Baggage Forwarding Service
If you need to bring a lot of baggage, as shown below, perhaps sending it ahead might be a good idea.
International Travel Tips #18 Build a Comprehensive Travel Packing List
A well-prepared vacation packing list ensures you don’t forget important things.
Your Ultimate Travel Checklist
-
Travel documents
-
Credit cards and debit card
-
Local currency
-
Clothing items
-
Comfortable walking shoes
-
Essential toiletries
-
Electronic items
-
Universal travel adapter
-
Money belt
-
Hand sanitizer
-
Eye mask
-
Reusable water bottle
-
Travel insurance
-
Prescription medications
-
Small day pack
-
Compression packing cubes
-
Travel-sized containers
This comprehensive travel packing list works for short trips, longer trips, summer travel, and overseas adventures. For more detailed free packing lists designed for specific travel journeys, please see our "ultimate packing list" post.
Summary
Here is a quick summary of what we are recommending: You might want to check out our post "Packing My Bags: Essential Travel Packing Hacks," or our post "Packing Made Easy: Essentials for Comfort & Convenience."
| Category | Items | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Documents | Passport, Visa Requirements, Credit Cards, Debit Card, Travel Insurance, Hotel Room Confirmations, Rental Car Details | Keep in a money belt or shoulder bag for easy access. |
| Carry-On Essentials | Personal Item, Eye Mask, Hand Sanitizer, Prescription Medications, Travel-Sized Containers, Change of Clothes | Pack for long flights and delays. |
| Clothing Items | Versatile Clothing, Pairs of Pants, Comfortable Walking Shoes, Summer Travel Layers | Check weather conditions and pack light. |
| Toiletries | Essential Toiletries, Travel Size Hair Dryer, Insect Repellent, Personal Hygiene Items | Use a toiletry bag and follow airline weight limits. |
| Electronics | Universal Travel Adapter, Right Electronics, Phone, Laptop, Chargers, Power Bank | Keep electronic items in your personal item. |
| Money & Safety | Local Currency, Local Bank Info, Safety Items, Waist Pack | Useful for foreign country travel and religious sites. |
| Packing Tools | Packing Cubes, Compression Packing Cubes, Duffel Bags, Small Backpack, Small Day Pack | Helps maximize space and stay organized. |
| Miscellaneous | Reusable Water Bottle, Travel Packs, Important Things, Right Paperwork | Great for longer trips and overseas travel. |
Shopping with Amazon
Many of the items that we are recommending can be easily purchased at Amazon. We have additional travel accessories that you might be interested in on our "Amazon Travel Gear Post," and also on our "Travel Accessories Post". If you don't have Amazon Prime membership; you can try a one-month free membership which can be cancelled at any time. If you intend to buy any of these items below, with Prime you will likely also qualify for free shipping, subject to certain minimum purchase thresholds. We've had Prime membership for years and in addition to free shipping, I love the free Amazon music and Prime video that is included.
Note: As an Amazon Associate, CosGuide4Travel earns a small commission for any qualifying purchases made on their website. We also have affiliate links with other providers. If you visit their sites, we may also receive a small commission. This helps offset the cost of providing our service. This in no way increases your cost of any product or service that you may purchase on their sites.
0 Comments