Mastering Packing Like A Pro
So, you’ve finally picked your next getaway destination—exciting! But now comes the tricky part: what to pack? Don’t worry; you’ve landed in the right place. Packing can feel overwhelming, whether you’re stressing about forgetting essentials or stuffing your bag with way too many “just in case” outfits.
Honestly, I’m guilty of overpacking (we’re talking ten extra outfits, minimum). But through trial and error, I’ve learned how to pack smart, travel light, and still have everything I need.
What if I told you packing could be quick, stress-free, and way easier? Okay, maybe not completely stress-free, but with a few simple tricks, you’ll be ready in no time! Here’s how.
Join the Everything Travel community on Facebook to ask and find any travel-related questions.
More Packing Blogs
Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links. If you purchase any cool products or experiences through these links, I may earn a little something as a thank you. There is no extra cost to you, promise!
Hand Luggage vs Suitcase
Start with Your Luggage – Size Matters!
Hand luggage. Also known as carry-on luggage, hand luggage refers to any bag you can take on the plane rather than checking it in. This includes small suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, and totes that meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions. It’s perfect for short trips, city breaks, or when you want to avoid waiting at baggage claim.
Suitcase. A suitcase is a specific type of luggage, usually hard-shell or soft-shell, with a rectangular shape, wheels, and a handle. It is ideal for organized packing, longer trips, or for neat belongings. While many small suitcases qualify as hand luggage, larger ones must be checked in.
Suitcase or hand luggage? Decisions, decisions! Credit: VisualProduction (Adobe)
Luggage vs. Suitcase: Which One is Better?
If you’re travelling light, hand luggage is the way to go—it saves you money on baggage fees and time waiting to collect your luggage and reduces the risk of lost luggage. My rule? Anything under four days should fit in hand luggage.
If you need to pack more, a larger suitcase might be necessary. Just be sure to check your airline’s carry-on size and weight limits before heading to the airport! Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way—those overweight baggage fees can seriously kill the holiday vibe before it even starts. Most airlines will let it slide if you’re only slightly over (like 1kg), but anything more could cost you. And trust me, those fees add up fast!
I don’t usually weigh my hand luggage, but recently, I’ve noticed more airports doing it. Grab a portable luggage scale on Amazon to avoid surprise fees, and check your bag before you go!
Choose Your Luggage
Packing For Different Occasions
City Break. For a city break, pack light but stylish. Comfortable shoes are a must for all that sightseeing, but make sure you also have an item or two to dress up for any nice dinners or drinks. Opt for versatile clothing—think a few pairs of shorts, comfy tops, and a light cardi for the evenings.
Beach Escape. For a beach escape, think minimal and breezy! Swimsuits, sunglasses, and sunscreen are your go-to. Light, airy clothing like cover-ups, shorts, and tank tops are perfect for relaxing by the water. And don’t forget your beach bag, flip-flops, and a book to enjoy while soaking in the sun.
Adventure Trip. For an adventure trip, pack practical and durable gear. Think moisture-wicking clothes, hiking boots, and layers you can add or remove based on the weather. A lightweight backpack is essential to carry your snacks, water, and first aid kit. A waterproof jacket, sturdy gloves, and safety gear may also be needed if you’re doing more extreme activities.
Winter Getaway. For a winter getaway, pack heavy-duty outerwear! A quality winter jacket, warm layers (think thermals and fleece), sturdy boots, scarves, gloves, and hats are essential to staying warm. Don’t forget thermal socks and good waterproof shoes for those snowy days.
Cultural Indulgence. For a cultural indulgence trip, think comfortable yet respectful attire. Depending on where you’re going, you might need to dress modestly, so pack long pants, skirts, and tops with sleeves. Leaving some space in your luggage for souvenirs from local artisans is a great way to support the community and bring home meaningful keepsakes!
Packing Essentials Checklist
Basic 4-Day Packing List For Hot Getaway
Pro Packing Tips!
Roll Don’t Fold – Saves space and prevents your clothes from being wrinkled
Packing Cubes – Keeps things organised and easy to access what you need quickly
Wear Bulky Items – Planning on taking a bulky item like a coat? Wear it at the airport
Packing For A Super Cold Getaway
For a super cold getaway, you’ll likely need checked-in luggage since bulky items can take up a lot of space in just hand luggage. You’ll still need everything from your hot getaway packing list—like a bikini (you never know if there’s a spa where you’re going)—but the clothing section and toiletries will look slightly different.
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
Travel Tools & Essentials
Travel Essentials
Makeup: Ensure your foundation and any other liquid in your makeup routine is under 100ml. Depending on where I am going, I take just a few of my makeup essentials instead of all to free up bag space—makeup takes up so much space!
Hair Products: As a mixed-race girl, there are just certain products my hair NEEDS. I can not travel without them, so I usually empty some of my products into 50ml/100ml containers to take with me. These containers are great for taking shampoo, conditioner, oils, hair cream, and other hair-related products abroad.
Lady Bits: Even if it’s not your time of the month, take some just in case. You can really struggle to find sanitary items in some places abroad. Once in Dubai, I entered five stores before eventually finding tampons. Pack some wipes also; you never know when you will need them.
Spare Bag: For worn items. I pack a few empty sealed bags to put my used clothing in so the dirty items don’t mix with the fresh clothing. If you shop from Shein, I’m sure you’ll have plenty of empty sealed bags lying around; use those!
Documents: Make sure you have all the visas, documents, and whatever else is required for the destination you are travelling to. This includes checking if you need more than six months on your passport to travel. GOV has all the travel requirements for every destination if you’re travelling from the UK. Otherwise, check the government website for your country.
Travel Tools
Chargers & Battery Pack: There is nothing fun about forgetting these on your trip! A battery pack is essential for any trip, especially for a solo traveller. Don’t forget to pack your phone charger and the wire that charges your battery pack! Travelling abroad means you’ll likely need a universal plug to fit their socket, so remember to chuck that in.
Travel Scales: A portable digital weight scale can do wonders and save you from unwanted airport fees. Plus, if you plan on bringing it for your return journey, it’s pretty small, so it shouldn’t take up much space when packed.
Safety Items: Some safety items are worth having, especially when travelling abroad solo. My Travel Solo Safety Guide covers staying safe and safety tools more thoroughly.
Packing Cubes: Make sure to get your hands on some packing cubes; they’re an absolute game changer! It helps organise your items and makes it sooo much easier to find what you need.
Insurance: Guys, whether you’re away for one day or one year, you need travel insurance! Your life should be more important than anything; you don’t want to be one of those ‘GoFundMe’ cases because you chose not to prioritise yourself.
That’s A Wrap!
After packing, your bag should be full and ready to go. If there is spare space, I tend to bring a book, a diary and a pen to keep me preoccupied. That’s it. You should be ready for your trip! So, where will you go?
If you need inspiration on where to go, check out the Destinations Page.
Have a safe flight!
