Packing Guidelines for International Travel

When it’s time to start packing, most of us get a little frantic, don’t we? We want to be sure we include any and everything we might need for the trip, especially if the trip is to a foreign country, and especially if it’s our first time there.

First, let’s talk weather. It’s super easy to find out usual weather patterns and temperatures anywhere you are going in the world on any given date range. Just Google it. Then Google it again three days before you go, just in case there’s a big storm brewing, heat wave or cold front coming through during your actual dates of the trip and adjust your wardrobe accordingly.

Don’t overpack. I cannot stress this enough. Pack using like colors so you can mix and match and wear things more than once. Pack at least two days’ worth of clothing in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost. Packing cubes are your friend.

Take broken-in shoes that offer great support and won’t give you blisters. We usually walk 15,000 or more steps a day on our tours. If your feet hurt, your entire body is going to hurt. Two pairs.

Your prescription medications (which should always be packed in your carry-on luggage, never in your checked bag), and over the counter medications such as Tylenol or aspirin. Band-Aids. Nail file. It never fails I break a nail on any international trip and need a nail file.

Do you wear glasses or contacts? Have two pairs just in case of loss or damage. Sunglasses and a visor or hat are usually a good idea as well. Travel umbrellas come in handy, and don’t take up much room.

Personal hygiene items such as cosmetics, deodorant, shaving razors, hair styling products and equipment.

Converter/adaptors are a must have. Even if your hotel has a blow dryer, which it most likely does, you’ll need a convertor/adaptor to plug in the charger for your phone, camera battery chargers, etc.

Washcloths. Europeans don’t use them, don’t have them, and it’ll drive you nuts. Buy some cheap ones to take along and just leave them behind as you move along the trip.

I like to have a paper copy of my travel documents. I know most of you have everything on your phone these days, and that’s all well and good. But if someone steals your phone, if you drop and break your phone, you’re in a pickle. Paper documents are never a bad idea.

Speaking of stealing, I always have a wallet that’s concealed under my clothing secured by a cord around my neck. Pick pockets in tourist destinations are magicians. Better safe than sorry. Pick a soft one, hard plastic ones will rub you raw by the end of a long day.

Most hotels have pools, and you might find a refreshing dip at the end of a long day of sightseeing just the ticket for a good night’s sleep. Take a bathing suit and cover up.

Check with your cell phone provider about international rates. Check with your bank and credit card companies about fees to use your debit or credit card. Let them know your travel dates so they won’t assume your card has been stolen and freeze your access.

That’s it in a nutshell. We have a detailed packing guide we send to our customers, and there are many you can find online that are just as good. I like to use them and check things off as I go just to be sure I didn’t forget anything.

I hope your next trip is truly amazing and you packed exactly what you needed for it.