It’s hard to keep track of everything you need to pack for a trip. One minute, you’re running around like a dog on Adderall trying to find those jeans you just can’t forget, and the next, you’re crying your eyes out on the floor of your room, thinking you might have to stay home. This whole thing with packing just isn’t worth it. This was me before I went to Chile to study abroad for a semester.
I know because I’ve been there!
Every time I pack my brand-new makeup brush and five pairs of super cute dresses that I probably won’t wear, I forget at least one of these important clothes items.
So, I’ve made a list of the ten things I always pack in my bag, no matter where I’m going or what the weather will be like.
1. Multi-Purpose Jacket Or Sweater
In my case, that’s a denim jacket. You should always carry an extra layer that keeps you warm and looks good because you can never predict the weather.
2. Fuzzy Socks
To get things started, I’ll say something that may sound absurd but is in fact accurate. My carry-on bag always has a pair of fuzzy socks in it since I never leave home without them.
Why?
Simply said, flights may be freezing! Or heated. Let’s be honest, there’s really no middle ground here. But if it is cold outside, which I suspect it will be, I have a pair of warm, fuzzy socks. It’s worth it, I swear, even if people give you strange looks. I find that airplane blankets are too little and unsatisfactory, so I always travel with a pair of warm socks.
3. Yoga/Sweat Pants
Even though I always pack yoga pants for a trip, you might want to consider doing the same. Since they can serve as pajamas, soft travel pants, and gym pants (although who really wants to worry about that on vacation other than fitness freaks like me? ), they’re a good multi-purpose item to have. I doubt it, but if you’re the type who needs them, you won’t regret bringing a pair.
Even if you’re traveling somewhere hot, you might want to bring a pair of yoga pants just in case it cools down at night.
4. Old Shirt
You should also bring old, plain clothing that isn’t too sentimental. You can wear it as an additional layer or take it exploring with you. If it gets damaged while you’re out exploring, at least you won’t be too sad.
Now you know the deal. These are the eleven pieces of clothing I never leave home without. If there’s anything I should have covered or if you’d like to hear more, please let me know. Also, use this link to acquire a free, customizable PDF of this checklist.
5. Sunglasses
Yes, I am aware. This one isn’t really clothes, but it’s always useful whether it’s hot or chilly outside!
I also think it’s a good idea to protect your sunglasses with a case. It’ll take up more room, I get it, but you don’t want your sunglasses crushed and ruined by the rest of your belongings.
6. LOTS Of Underwear
Another that sounds ridiculous but has real-world applications. When packing your suitcase, underwear can be used to make room for bulkier items like shoes or fragile items.
When I travel for less than two weeks, I always bring enough underwear for each day. I don’t know about you, but wearing soiled underwear is where I draw the line when it comes to wearing previously washed things.
In case your checked bag is lost, you’ll be glad you packed an additional pair of underwear in your carry-on. Reusing an outfit is fine, but reusing the underwear you wore on the plane is not.
7. Sports Bra
For comfort and security reasons (I was once checked at the airport due to an underwire bra), sports bras are the best option for flight travel. Again, I find it useful because I prefer to exercise even while I’m away from home.
8. Tennis Shoes
You’ll need a good pair of tennis shoes, sneakers, trainers, or whatever else you choose to name them.I once went on a three-month vacation throughout Europe without a good pair of tennis shoes and deeply regretted it. To begin, tennis shoes, like many other goods, are both convenient and comfortable for use while on the road.
In the absence of particularly challenging terrain, they can also serve as regular hiking footwear. My Nike tennis sneakers held up fine through multiple mountain hikes in Austria.
Tennis shoes are another great footwear option for long days spent seeing new locations. Your toes will appreciate this advice down the road.
9. Swimsuit
It might be chilly, but you never know when you might need a blanket! Even though April in Iceland might be chilly, I was able to use my swimsuit to warm myself in the country’s many hot springs.
Also, if you’re thinking about taking a trip to Iceland and you’re hoping to get some advice from actual Icelanders, keep reading! If you visit during this festival’s time, you might also witness others dressed up like this.
10. Jeans
A good pair of jeans is always a safe bet. It’s nearly certain that you’ll need them, so it’s best to bring along several pairs. The best part is that they can be dressed up or down, making them extremely versatile—exactly what you need in a travel staple.
I’m waiting for your response now…So, tell me: what are YOUR must-haves when you travel?
