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Below is my complete and comprehensive packing list that I use for my travels. It’s an all-in-one packing list that can easily be tailored to any type of travel. Subscribe at the bottom of the page or on the pop up for a PDF printable copy of this packing list. Don’t forget anything! Print out the packing list and cross off any items at the beginning that aren’t pertinent for your vacation and then cross off each one as you pack it. Save your packing list copy then print it out over and over again each time you travel.  

Disclaimer: There are some links in this article that are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, we receive a small commission. This is never an extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Packing List: Shower Items

• Shampoo

• Conditioner

• Hair Product Containers

There are only a few select brands that make travel sized shampoo and conditioners. For everything else, be sure to get the travel sized hair product containers to fill up with your personal favorite brands.

• Baby Shampoo

  • Travel and Health Tip #1: Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

It probably seems ironic that as a pharmacist, my blog has nothing to do with pharmacy or medicine. But I really wanted the blog to be travel focused. Needless to say, there are some things that I learned in my pharmacy journey that I’ve been able to apply to my travels. One of those is my baby shampoo hack as a gentle eye makeup remover. Specifically, Johnson’s Baby Shampoo which is a no tears formulation. Safe for babies' eyes and safe for yours too. Perfect for removing makeup at the end of the day and cleansing the delicate area of the eyes. Not only that but shampoo is known to break down oils which can help prevent styes. Even on days when I’m not wearing makeup, I will still use baby shampoo to keep the oil buildup on my eyelids and eyelashes at bay. It’s inexpensive and comes in a travel sized container too.

• Face Wash

• Body Wash

• Razor

This can be a tricky one to pack. Disposable razors are usually allowed on planes, but razors with interchangeable blades are not. So, if you are like me with trying to have carry-on luggage only then be sure to keep that in mind. You can avoid this altogether if it’s a short trip and shave right beforehand. Otherwise, pack disposable and be sure there is a cover on it in case you bag is searched. Be sure to check out my La Bella Spa blog post detailing my experience with laser hair removal. By doing this it has cut down my need for regular shaving and subsequent razor burn which is never fun. Ouch!  

• Shower Cap

  • Travel Tip #2: Best Shower Cap (and Reusable)

If I said shower cap, most people would think of the plastic chintzy things you find often as a freebie in hotels. While those may be good in a pinch, I’ve found an even easier and more reusable shower cap to use, a beanie. Now I know it's material so you can't directly stick you hair in the water, but the light mist that comes from showering won't get your hair wet. For us ladies, who are not always washing our hair every day, this is a perfect solution. It not only keeps your hair dry, but it prevents heat getting to it (which can make it frizzy), it also can keep your hair somewhat styled and prevent you from having to redo it all. You may even have this already at home plus its machine washable so easy to reuse again and again. 

Packing List: Toiletries List

• Toothbrush

Recently, I upped my toothbrush game. The AquaSonic toothbrush has 4 different settings for different needs. The main reason for buying this one is that the vibration makes so many brush strokes that you literally only need to glide it over your teeth and gums. Plus, it runs for the ADA’s (American Dental Association) 2-minute recommended time for brushing and pauses every 30-seconds, so you know when to move it to a different section of your mouth. At the end when you’re done, set it in the station to recharge. While it's a little pricier than an ordinary toothbrush, it comes with a bunch of replacement heads (that will last you for awhile) and a travel case that is perfect for on the go. If you want to bring the charging station with you, you can, but the toothbrush can last up to 4 weeks on a single charge without it.  

• Toothbrush Holder

The AquaSonic toothbrush has its own travel case, so you are covered there. If you are taking a regular toothbrush, then use this holder or travel toothbrush which is cheaper and much more convenient.

• Toothpaste

For those with sensitive teeth like me, this is a great toothpaste. Otherwise, you can just bring your favorite toothpaste along or one of these travel sized ones.

• Floss

• Deodorant

It’s been a while now since I’ve been using aluminum free deodorant. I tried the rock salt, which didn’t work well. DIY'ed one using coconut oil which was a bit messy. Now I find that this one does a great job and doesn’t leave marks on clothes.

• Face Products

Facial moisturizers or body moisturizers are especially important on long flights as well as dry and cold weather destinations when skin needs that added protection. 

• Contact Lenses and Extras

• Contact Lens Case

• Contact Lens Solution

• Glasses with Case

• Body Lotion/Baby Oil

• Cotton Swabs/Cotton Balls/Cotton Pads

• Anti-Static Spray

If you can believe it, I had never heard of this until my husband told me about it after learning about it from his mom and sister. Now that I do know about it, it’s a must have for travel! It can be used on hair and clothes to keep static at bay.

• Lint Roller

• Stain Remover

• Cologne/Perfume

Packing List: Hair Products

• Hairbrushes and Combs

• Bobby Pins/Clips/Hairbands

• Hair Spray

• Hair Styling Products

• Straightener

• Hair Dryer

• Curling Iron/Wand

Don’t forget to pack you heating tools using these heat resistant cases and counter rests.

Packing List: Health Items

• Medications [OTC and Rx]

  • Travel Tip #3: Always Pack Medication in your Carry-On Luggage

All medication whether OTC (over the counter) or Rx (prescription) should always be readily accessible in your carry-on luggage. Never risk checking them and then losing your medicine. Blog post coming soon with more detailed information on medication packing tips.

• Thermometer

• First Aid Kit

• Face Mask

• Flushable Wipes

I mean how did we ever poop before these!

• Tampons/Pads

• Condoms

• Lubricant

• Tissue Packs

• Sunscreen/Sunblock

If you’ve read my Florida blog posts such as strawberry picking or blueberry picking etc., sunblock is ALWAYS listed on the day's packing list. Because it is so important! Don’t leave home without it. Now, I typically purchase a foundation that contains SPF so when I’m wearing makeup, I’m covered. Get it, pun intended. Otherwise, I would also recommend purchasing a sunscreen that is designed specifically for the face (rather than one for body) to help prevent breakouts. Link above is to my absolutely favorite sunscreen that I use on the kids. It's clear zinc so once you rub it all in the white zinc paste disappears, plus it has the least amount of ingredients that I've seen compared to any other popular brands. Plus the few ingredients it does have are either organic or natural. 

• Bug Spray

• Antibacterial Wipes

• Hand Sanitizer

• Nail File

• Cuticle Nipper

In the past I’ve been stopped by TSA, and this removed from my bag. But now the recommendations have changed, and you can bring this on carry-on luggage, so I've added it back to my packing list. Larger sizes of these and certain other types of clippers are not allowed, so be sure to check the destination or airline website to make sure you are complying. No matter the size, be sure it’s covered or wrapped in case your bag is searched.

Packing List: Clothes

I made this part of the packing list very broad because what clothes you bring, or need will depend on your length of time at a location, weather at your destination, and the activities on your itinerary.

You can find all my new or gently used clothing items and more on Poshmark. Follow me for new items regularly being added.

• Bras

  • Bra with Non-Slip Straps

As we get older, our bodies change (like after childbirth, breastfeeding, and/or pumping) and so do our intimate apparel needs. So, what may have started out as what looks the best, has now become what functions the best and feels comfortable wearing. Recently, I’ve been trying to rotate my wardrobe around. And I found these two bras, that have been awesome for keeping the straps on my shoulders. Check them out here and here. Strapless bras have been an issue too, cause sometimes the edges can be seen through shirts, or they can slip and slide down requiring adjustment. Recently, found this strapless bra that is awesome.

• Underwear/Panties

• Socks/Pantyhose

Check out these great no show no slip socks. They don’t dig into your skin, are low enough to not be seen, and don’t slip off when you are wearing them.

• Pajamas

• Tank Tops/T-Shirts/Blouses

• Shorts

• Skirts/Dresses

• Pants/Jeans/Leggings

• Bathing Suits

• Sweaters/Jackets

Packing List: Accessories

• Shoes

Shoe addict confession to make. In the past, I’ve been guilty of packing shoes that look great and match my outfits, but that were super uncomfortable and left blisters on my feet. So, I’ve learned my lesson and now I find shoes that still look great, but that are super comfortable. And that way, I can better enjoy my travels. Absolutely love these sneakers, they are comfortable, look great, and machine washable!

• Scarves

• Hats

• Belts

• Makeup

As I mentioned in the sunscreen section above, I try to buy foundation which already contains SPF. I love this one from Tarte which goes on so light and doesn’t make my skin breakout. Don’t forget to purchase this awesome brush from Bare Minerals that makes it so fast and easy to apply.

I love this mini eyeshadow palette from Natasha Denona. To store all my makeup I use a case like this that can easily be cleaned and won’t stain.

Every makeup bag should contain a lip balm. With all my makeup, I’ve tried to switch to ones that are the most natural and contain the least amount of ingredients. So far, my favorite lip balm is this one from Tropical Traditions. I buy a bunch all at once (since they do require a minimum purchase amount), but then you have them on hand for a while. There are only 3 all-natural ingredients (since I get the unscented ones) and are great to keep lips moist. If you want to DIY this lip balm with all-natural ingredients that can easily be purchased off Amazon, then check out Frugal Farm Wife’s recipe here.

• Jewelry

My love of costume (or fashion) jewelry is a trait passed down to me by my paternal grandmother and now passed on to my daughter. In recent years though, I’ve realized that the ingredients used in these cheaper products were making my skin itch and turning me green. Nowadays, I’ve only been purchasing jewelry made of more precious metals or stainless steel to avoid this. While this can sometimes be pricy, they often times do last longer. And I have found some affordable options like these stud earrings.

• Travel and Life Tip #4: How to Keep Necklaces from Tangling

If you are bringing multiple necklaces in your travels, then there is a simple and cheap way to avoid tangles. Straws and Snack Bags! You may already have these in your home. For your basic pendant or layering necklaces, use a straw to run one end of the necklace through then clasp it at the other end. For larger pieces that don’t fit into a straw, I pack then individually into snack bags. Another great option is using soft cases like this that can keep them each in their own compartments. This tip was also helpful when we moved, so that the jewelry didn’t get tangled with all the jostling around.

• Sunglasses

• Umbrella

After years of wearing basically a plastic bag, oh wait I mean a poncho around Disney when it rained, I decided to invest in a small umbrella. They are compact and lightweight, so perfect for traveling. And now I don’t have to buy an umbrella at every destination when I inevitably get stuck in the rain.  

• Purses

Typically, I use different purses for different types of travel. Overall, for everyday use, I love a crossbody bag. It’s easy to throw on, won’t fall off my shoulder, and everything I need to access is within an easy reach. Recently I also bought this super cute mini backpack to replace my purse if and when the need arises.

• Luggage

  • American Tourister Luggage

  • Samsonite Luggage

  • Swiss Gear Luggage

All of these are great brands when looking for durable and long-lasting luggage for traveling. If you are a carry-on luggage only kind of a person, like me when flying, then making sure these meet the size requirements for overhead compartments and under the seat storage are important. For checked luggage or when needing larger luggage pieces for extended length stays, then there are options for those as well. 

• Travel Tip #5: Do NOT use a duffle bag!

You may have noticed that there is no duffle bag on my packing list for vacation and there is a very strong reason for that. On my first trip out of the country, my friend and I were headed to Greece for 10 days. Here is my blog post about my time in Crete and all the fun and interesting things to do on the island.

Naturally having never been out of the country at the time, I packed as much as humanly possible. Not joking, I used multiple large vacuum bags (like the biggest ones used for bedding) to pack as many clothes into the largest duffel bag I could buy. In addition, I also used one of my super cute weekender bags as my carry-on bag. At first it was easy carrying this monstrosity of luggage from the curb to the flight check in booth (which was like 2 steps). Once I got off the plane though, then I had to carry this beast through the airport and out to a cab, then down the stairs to the metro, then on the metro, then on escalators in the metro, and elevators out of the metro, then walk it along the streets of Athens, Greece till we got to our hotel.

It was while dragging this heavy no-wheeled duffle bag and shouldering another heavy no-wheeled duffle bag through the Greek Metro system while simultaneously ripping holes in it that I decided, I’m literally NEVER doing this again. And I never did. Once I got home, I got rid of those bags completely. I also unpacked all the clothes I packed ¾ of which I never even wore.

After that I decided to make a packing list for vacation (which you are reading now) to ensure that the next time I traveled I only packed what I needed appropriate to the trip. And only in a bag that was easy for me to carry by myself no matter the destination. Even though, you could use a duffel bag for an overnight stay or a road trip, I found that backpacks and rolling luggage were the easiest way to travel.

• Backpack

I love a backpack for really any kind of travel, not just for flights. You can read about some of the travel accessories I pack in my backpack when we spend a day out with the kids (I use a larger backpack for Disney days). If you are going to travel internationally, or if your destination puts safety as a concern, then get an anti-theft backpack. They are slash resistant and have RFID blocking technology.

• Carry On Backpack with Wheels

We also have this suitcase that is larger in size with wheels, but that also has shoulder straps to be worn as a backpack if needed. A great multi-functioning piece of luggage.

• Packing Cubes/Travel Storage Sets

You can probably tell that I’m into organization. The fact that I’m writing a complete packing list to organize this necessity of travel most likely gave it away. Lol. Even before packing cubes were a thing; I’ve always found a way to organize my packing into sections. It makes it easier to find things and take things out when needed. For example, I keep all my liquids in an organized case for going through security, a case for all jewelry items, a case for smaller items like socks so they don’t get lost in the clothes etc. Now we have these awesome packing cubes designed specifically for that.

In the past I used vacuum bags to pack way too much. But when you are trying to keep your luggage to a minimum they are a great space saver.

• Travel Tags/Locks

In our day and age, travel safety is so important. It’s because of this that even on my travel tags, I don’t put my first name just my initial then my last name. Also, I only include my phone number and not my physical address. If needed, an appropriate person can call to get your address. Locks on checked luggage can usually deter petty theft, but wouldn’t spend too much money on this, because if TSA has to check your bag, then they are breaking the locks anyways. Unless you purchase these TSA approved travel locks which allow for them to open without breaking. 

Packing List: Documents and Financials

• Driver’s License

• Passport/Visa

• Health Insurance Card

• Tickets/Boarding Passes

• Credit Card/Debit Card

• Cash/Foreign Currency

  • Travel Tip #6: Leave a Copy of your Documents with a Trusted Individual at Home

For domestic travel this isn’t as important, but for international travel, I consider this a must. If you ever lose any of these items or if they’re ever stolen, you want to be able to reach someone to get the information you need to make things right. For other helpful tips about international travel, check out my blog post on Montreal.

• Wallet

• Travel Must Have Item: Waistband Wallet

While yes you need a wallet to keep all your cards and cash in, a waistband wallet is a little different. If you are staying at a hotel, there is usually a safe there for any important items like a passport. If you aren’t staying in a place that has a safe, then you’re likely bringing the passport with you wherever you’re going. The best way to keep it safe is in a waistband wallet. A waistband wallet can be kept discretely on your person and under your clothes. It’s often made of breathable material for comfortable all day wearing.

If you are going on a water adventure, then using one of these waterproof pouches to keep your important documents and even phone dry is another travel must have item.

Packing List: Electronics

• Cell Phone with Charger

• Camera and/or Drone

Make sure you bring all the necessary add-ons to these two as well, like tripods, cases, memory cards, and chargers.

• Tablet/Laptop with Charger

• External Battery

• Electric Converters

Packing List: Travel Essentials List

The travel essentials on this packing list may seem to be for air travel, but really work for any kind of travel like train travel or even road trips.

• Headphones

• Neck Pillow

• Blanket

• Ear Plugs

• Eye Mask

• Empty Water Bottle

You are probably thinking this is a typo, but it's not. Since you aren’t allowed to bring liquids through security, this is the way around that. On the other side you can fill up at the water fountains or at the soda fountain of a restaurant. Many airports have filling stations at the water fountains dedicated to water bottles. I usually bring my favorite stainless-steel water bottle which can be reused to take on my adventures once I get to my destination.

It also saves you from having to splurge on over-priced water. Jerry Seinfeld talks about this in his standup act. It’s so funny! Check it out here.

“Do the people that work in these little shops in the airport have any idea what the prices are every place else in the world? Yeah $14 tuna sandwich we think that’s fair.” - Jerry Seinfeld

• Snacks

No packing list is complete without snacks. Food is a topic I can talk about all the time. There are already a few posts up on the blog on restaurants like Topolino’s Terrace and Olivia’s Café. And even when I may not have had food allergies during some of my travels, I always try to include tips to help.

Snacks for traveling are especially important for those like me with food allergies. And believe me, I’ve tried to literally bring anything and everything through security like an entire loaf of gluten free bread, an entire jar of peanut butter and jelly. Lol. I’ve learned my lesson though. Typically, now I pack non-perishable snacks for the journey and the destination. With at least one meal packed for the journey along with some fresh fruits and vegetables just in case there is a delay and no places around for me to get allergy friendly food. Otherwise, I try to do a little grocery shopping at my destination depending on length of time and destination like I did in Montreal.  

• Entertainment

  • Books

  • Notebook

  • Pen

  • Magazines

  • Music

  • Movies

  • Games

Finally, flying or train travel can be long so having something to keep you entertained is important. Don’t forget to download all your entertainment like games, music, movies, or books. If you are not going digital, then don’t forget to bring your magazine or book to read. Depending on where you are going make sure you download the appropriate apps and guides, so that you don’t have to rely on doing that when you arrive.

If you haven’t yet done so, then subscribe below to get your own free printable PDF copy of this packing list for vacation. If there was something I missed that you consider a travel must have item, then be sure to leave it in the comments below. Be sure to also check out my travel accessories for a day out with toddlers. Thank you as always.

Disclaimer: There are some links in this article that are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, we receive a small commission. This is never an extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.