100 Packing Tips for Traveling Abroad

Have you ever struggled with how to pack your luggage? Have you ever felt like you have too much or too little luggage, or don't know what to pack? Not knowing how to pack everything into a small suitcase, if you have such troubles, this article should be stored in the bookmarks. I'm going to share some packing tips here to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Packing luggage - related documents

• In preparationpassportBefore, please make sure that the validity period is more than six months. Some countries won't let you in if the expiration date is too short. For your particular destination, read their laws for passport requirements for travelers.
• Be sure to bring a travel visa if required.Some countries require a travel visa before entry and usually have deadlines on how long you can stay. Traveling to Europe will be easier for you if you are an EU citizen
• If traveling with children, obtain a child travel consent form.If children under the age of 18 are traveling with only one parent, written permission from the other parent is required.
• Print a copy of your travel insurance.If you don't have one, I highly recommend getting one as it's usually pretty cheap and will protect against medical bills, theft, flight delays, etc.
• Pack all travel documents in a separate bag or folder and keep them with you at all times.Never put documents in checked luggage and keep them safe. Also, it's a good idea to take a photo and email a copy to yourself.
• Copy of printed boarding pass.It will serve as a backup in case your phone battery dies.
• Don't forget about other files:Train, bus, ferry or plane tickets, hotel reservations, attractions and museum tickets, a piece of paper with emergency contacts, guidebooks and maps and local tourist cards.

Packing - Electronics

• Don't forget to bring cameras, drones, smartphones, laptops, e-readers, headphones and tablets (if you plan to use them.I usually don't necessarily have to bring a camera and tablet because my smartphone and laptop can easily replace both.
• If your luggage hasdrone, Remember to take out the battery and carry it in your carry-on luggage separately.
• Carry a dual voltage charger for all your devices. If you're located in the US and traveling to Europe, make sure all your chargers are dual voltage. This is because the US uses 110v electricity, but Europe uses 220v. If you don't have enough chargers, you will ruin your device. There will be something like this written on the charger: "100v-240v".
• Never pack electronics in checked luggage.Use hand luggage or carry-on luggage instead. Otherwise, they can be stolen or damaged, and airlines generally won't reimburse valuable items such as electronics.
• Be sure to charge your electronic devices before boarding the plane.Sometimes airline security will ask you to open your device. Some airlines do not allow devices that you cannot open. This can turn into a bad situation if you forget your charger. Also, make sure to turn on airplane mode before heading out.
• Get a power transformer.In Europe alone, there are three different types ofPower Transformers. You should research what kind of plugs are available in your destination country and buy accordingly. There are also generic ones, which can be a good investment if you plan to travel abroad frequently.
• Pack your power bank.A power bank is essential, especially for international flights. While you're watching movies and TV shows, most of your entertainment gadgets won't last a few hours or more, so be sure to fully charge them before boarding the plane.

Toiletries and Medications

• Pack liquids over 100ml (3.4 oz) into your checked luggage.In your carry-on luggage, you can pack liquids in 100 ml (3.4 oz) bottles, all of which must be packed together in a TSA-approved clear bag (usually about ten small bottles). If you plan to bring more items, you must check them in.
• If you are staying in a hotel, please leave your shampoo and body wash at home.Most hotels provide these items for free.
• You can pack your medicines with confidence.According to TSA regulations, all medications are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. I'll keep it in my hand luggage though, in case I might need some urgently. Additionally, medications are allowed on flights if they are in liquid form and exceed 100 ml (3.4 oz), but in reasonable quantities. Note that medicines need to be in their original packaging.
• Some medicines you may forget about:Allergy medicine, motion sickness pills, asthma medicine, pain relievers, sunburn cream, bandages, thermometers, diarrhea medicine, cough medicine, mosquito repellent, antacids, sleeping aids, and eye drops.
• Some toiletries you might forget about:Toothbrush, mouthwash, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and body wash (leave at home if going to a hotel), sunscreen, facial cleanser, cosmetics, contact lenses, makeup remover wipes, shaving cream, Razor, wax or gel, perfume and dry shampoo.
• If you need a prescription, don't forget to have your prescription with you.Some countries accept prescriptions from other countries, so bring it just in case.
• Pack the medication in individual ready-to-use bags.You never know when you'll need it, so it's better to be able to find anything quickly than to reopen your entire suitcase.

clothing

• Between two similar items of clothing, always choose the lightest.For example, I never wear my big, comfy black hoodie. Instead, I take a thinner one, which is just as warm but takes up less room. The same goes for boots and shoes. When packing your luggage abroad, try to keep the weight as light as possible.
• For long-distance travel, take fewer sets of clothes and wash them halfway.Often, larger hotels have the option to do your laundry for you, which is great for a two to four week trip. Even if the restaurant itself doesn't provide it, it will usually tell you where the nearest laundry place is. Alternatively, underwear and socks can be easily washed in the sink with regular soap. Just make sure to hang them up to dry with plenty of time! Sometimes you can press them with a hotel towel after washing to get them to dry faster.
• put on more clothes.If you're heading to a colder climate, an excellent way to save space is to wear layers of clothing. Instead of bringing a bulky jacket and hoodie, layer on a few light shirts.
• Wear your bulkiest clothing and shoes on the flight.By doing this, you will save some space in your luggage. Once you're on the plane, you can take some things off.
• Choose clothes to match.Basically, you should be able to wear any two pieces of clothing together. Avoid packing clothes that are not separated each day. This way, you can wear jeans for a few days while changing your t-shirt and underwear every day.
• At the end of your journey, you can wear the same clothes.For example, if you've been traveling for seven days, pack clothes for six days, because you'll be wearing the same things on the first and last day. Do you care that much about how you look on the plane? I always go for comfort over fashion.
• Research the fashion culture of your destination.For example, if you are female, you don't want to wear something that shows a lot of skin in Arab countries. In Europe, people tend to dress a little more formally than in the US.
• Underwear and socks.I recommend packing a pair every day. For long trips, only take half and wash everything mid-trip.
• Jeans, pants and shorts.Personally, for a two-week trip, I pack a pair of jeans and two pairs of shorts. I choose one for more casual use and another for outdoor activities like hiking, writing on horseback, etc.
• T-shirt.if youcompressionThey, they don't take up that much space, so I take one every day. (Although, you can change it every two days.
• Hoodies, shirts, jackets.If I'm traveling to a warm country, I usually skip bulky jackets. A hoodie and a light shirt will suffice. For colder places, I'll have one every three days. Do not bring more than one jacket as they take up a lot of space.
• dress. I think dresses are great for travel because they take up so little space. Just don't take it too far and remember to bring a pair of jeans for activities and hikes.
• Suitable and formal wear. If traveling for business, suits and formal attire are a must. Don't forget a pair of high heels or dress shoes, a tie, a suit or dress, and other accessories.
• sport equipment. I like to continue my workout routine while traveling, so I pack a pair of running sneakers, shorts, and a t-shirt. If you're active, don't forget to bring your sports gear if you want to hit the gym or go for a run.
• Shoes and boots. I usually bring no more than three pairs of shoes: a pair of running sneakers, loafers, flip-flops, or boots (depending on the weather). Shoes take up a lot of space, so think twice about bringing an extra pair.
• Accessories you may have forgotten to pack:Hats, scarves, swimwear, towels, gloves, belts, pajamas and jewelry. It all depends entirely on where you go, so it's up to you to decide if you need them.

sundries you may have forgotten to pack

• Bring food and snacks. If you take a short trip and don't have lunch, you should buy some snacks to save money. You can pack almost any food as long as you follow the 3.4 oz rule. The rule states that you cannot pack liquids in bottles larger than 3.4 ounces in your hand luggage. This includes sauces, creams and other liquids. However, Todd Lee is totally fine. Also, you should be careful packing organic and dairy products, as some countries do not allow you to bring certain foods into the country.
• Always bring an empty bag to put your dirty laundry in. If you start mixing dirty clothes with clean clothes, soon your clean clothes will start to smell. I recommend packing a special laundry bag or plastic bag. Tote bags are not as good because they let air through the fabric where plastic doesn't.
• Pack some zip ties, plastic bags, and a tote. They don't take up much space, and you never know when you might need them. If I'm bringing home a few bottles of wine, I usually bring a piece of bubble wrap as well.
• If you have a luggage scale, take it. If not, buy one. It's handy for your return flight, especially if you're visiting several countries. With it, you'll be able to easily weigh your suitcase and tell you if you can buy more snacks and souvenirs for your return flight. It only costs a few dollars and takes up very little space.
• Other items you can forget about:Umbrella, sunglasses, regular eyeglasses and case, tweezers or pocket knife, hand sanitizer, paper/pen, fork and spoon, mug, plate, cash, keys.

Prepare for a long international flight

• Download eBooks, movies and TV shows before travelling. Flight times can be long, usually twelve hours or more. To keep yourself entertained, be sure to download everything ahead of time. Time will pass faster! (I tend to write/sleep the entire flight.)
• Pack everything and enjoy a comfortable trip. Do you think it would be comfortable to sit in your seat for ten hours? Well, think again, because you may feel stiff and tired after the flight. If you have a room, bring a pair of sneakers, a hoodie, soft socks, a sleeping pillow, and a mask for a good night's sleep.
• Packing a few things can help you have more privacy on your flight. You never know who you'll be sitting next to. You might be sitting next to someone you want to talk to throughout the flight, or watching a movie on a bright screen. Prepare in advance and pack noise-canceling headphones or earplugs and a mask.
• For a refreshing boost, pack some wipes and hand cream in your carry-on. While it's optional, cleaning your hands and face with wipes will make you feel fresher. The dry air and changes in pressure can make you feel like you haven't showered in days.
• Wear glasses instead of contact lenses. I'm not sure why, but flying more than an hour or two with a liaison is next to impossible. It can be related to pressure changes and dryness. So pack your contact lenses in your luggage and wear your glasses.

before you start packing your suitcases

• Before you start packing, list all your belongings. This will help you avoid forgetting something. Some apps can help you create packing lists. Check out this handy printout PDF!
• Put all your stuff on the floor or on the bed. Reading a list may be one thing, but seeing all the items in front of you will help you understand how tightly you should be packing. Double check that you have everything on the list.
• Determine the weight and size restrictions for your flight. For international flights, you'll usually find stricter carry-on restrictions, so be sure to read and measure your luggage on the airline's website. Below are the most common airline restrictions.
• Choose the right luggage. If I fly with a checked suitcase, I usually take a backpack and a large suitcase. Make sure everything is within the size constraints. Also, if you have to travel long distances, I recommend taking luggage with spinning wheels.
• If you have an old suitcase, clean it out. I recently tried restoring my old suitcase with great success. With the proper technique, you can make your old bag look brand new.

Tips for Packing a Suitcase

• Pack these items in your carry-on luggage:Files, electronics, clothes for one to two days (in case your checked luggage gets lost), chargers, toiletries and medicines.
• Pack these items into your checked box:Extra shoes, all other clothing, liquids over 3.4 ounces, knives and other items not allowed on the flight.
• Start with a packaged archive. Put all your documents and printouts in one folder and keep them in an easy-to-access place. A good option is your handbag, backpack or duffel bag, depending on which hand luggage you choose.
• Utilizes packing cubes. They are a great way to organize your belongings and save a little space. I usually organize my cubes by their contents. For example, one for electronics, another for chargers and smaller items, and one for bulky clothes, etc.
• Before you start packing, rolling and folding clothes. To make packing easier, I always roll up my t-shirts, pants, jeans, shorts and underwear. This saves a lot of space and usually the items don't wrinkle as much (if you do it right.) In addition to rolling, I fold my shirts and other things that need to be wrinkle free. If you are using packing cubes, fold them to the exact size of the largest cube, this will help when packing.
• Fill your shoes with socks and underwear. Not only does this save space, but your shoes won't get squashed when you unpack.
• If you are using packing cubes, fill them to the top. This will minimize wrinkles on your clothes. Also, pack in a way that makes it easy to remove items. (Rolling debris is helpful!)
• If you don't have cube packing, start packing with shoes and larger items. Ideally, you want to place shoes and heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, as this will result in a more balanced suitcase. (Less likely to tip over!)
• Fill in the gaps with smaller projects. When you're done with the big stuff like shoes, jackets, jeans, hoodies and toiletry bags, fill in the blanks with socks, underwear and t-shirts.
• If you are using carry-on luggage and suitcases, do not pack valuables in your checked luggage. Items in checked baggage can be lost or stolen, and most of the time, airlines do not cover electronics, valuables, fragile items and jewelry. If you have no other choice, purchase separate travel insurance for the contents of your checked baggage.
• Pack fragile items and liquids with care. Here is a complete guide on packing fragile items in your luggage.
• If you are bringing a knife, please follow TSA rules. You can't put the knife in your carry-on luggage. Instead, you should carry it in your suitcase.
• Allow some room for returns. Have your friends, coworkers and family already wondered what snacks or souvenirs they'll get from you when you return from your trip? Make sure you leave some room for returns and souvenirs. I'd say an extra two to five pounds would suffice.
• Be sure to use the straps in your suitcase to tighten your belongings. I'm surprised how many people don't do this, especially if they don't use packing cubes. If you tighten them up, your clothes won't be all over the suitcase and you'll have less wrinkles because there will be less movement.
• Weigh your bag and make sure it's close to the weight limit. Most of the time, airline staff will let you add a few extra pounds. However, sometimes they won't, so to be on the safe side, you should always adhere to the weight limit.

after you pack your suitcase

• Make your suitcase easy to see. Adding some stickers, straps or other colorful elements will help you in two ways when you travel. First, your suitcase will be easily identifiable on the belt. Second, if your luggage is lost, you can better describe your suitcase to airline staff, which will increase the chances of them finding it. If you are carrying two or more suitcases, it is also a good idea to hook them together.
• Recheck that your files and valuables are packed in your carry-on luggage. Shipped suitcases can be easily stolen or lost. You don't want to lose your files abroad.
• Consider insuring your checked luggage. Airlines only reimburse a small amount for lost luggage because they value everything used. (Even if it's brand new.)
• If you're over the weight limit, start by taking off your clothes.Your suitcase 80% can easily be overrun with clothes. Most of the time, you eat too much. Consider packing for a week and doing laundry seven days later. Do you really need to bring those boots to Finland in the summer? Do you need that extra jacket in case it gets cold in Italy? No, you don't.
• Add a new luggage tag to your suitcase. Using luggage tags will greatly increase the chances of your suitcase being found in case it is lost. Write down your e-mail address, first initial and last name. (You don't want everyone to see all your information.)
• Use only TSA-approved locks when locking anything. Some beginners may not realize this, but everything you lock in your luggage must be secured with a TSA-approved lock. Whether you lock the suitcase itself or lock a box of valuables inside, a TSA lock allows TSA agents easy access. Otherwise, they have the power to break the lock and you could end up with a broken suitcase.
• If you are concerned about damage to your checked luggage, use a luggage cover. This protective cover helps to make your suitcase look brand new. In some third world countries, baggage handlers can be very hard on your suitcase, so protecting it may be a wise move. A cheaper DIY temporary solution is to cover it with plastic wrap.

money and credit card

• Do not exchange money in currency exchange. You may need to bring some cash with you. Most of the time, the best rates are when you withdraw money through a well-known ATM at your destination. Rates at airports and currency exchanges are always slightly lower. When you arrive, look for a well-known ATM (private ATMs usually charge higher fees) and withdraw money from your ATM card.
• Use your credit card wisely to avoid extra fees. This is not a packing tip, but I will include it anyway because it is essential. To withdraw money, please do not use a credit card. Instead, you should use an ATM card. Only use your credit card to pay with your card in other currencies because the exchange rate fees for credit cards are always smaller. Also, when paying with a credit card, you will often be asked if you want to be charged in the local currency or in US dollars. Always choose the local currency because the exchange rate is better. In short: Pay with a credit card in the local currency and withdraw money from a well-known ATM with your ATM card.
• Notify your bank and credit card that you will be traveling. If your bank or credit card notices strange transactions, they may freeze your account, which is the last thing you need while traveling. Notifying them in advance will help you avoid this problem as they will add a new fraud detection system to your account.
• Educate yourself about local currency. If you're not from that country, it can be very difficult to tell the difference between different coins and banknotes. Knowing the currency you're going for can save you a lot of headaches and avoid the possibility of being scammed!
• Consider getting a wallet or purse specifically for traveling. There are many options for storing your personal belongings more securely. You might want something on Amazon like this oneRFIDwallet, which will protect you from electronic pickpockets. You can also invest in a waterproof crossbody bag, which will protect your belongings from the elements and make it harder for thieves to snatch them from you.
• Consider using a prepaid travel card. If you don't want to carry a debit or credit card, consider a prepaid travel card. You can load a specific amount of money onto the card before you travel to lock in the exchange rate.
• Hide your money. Hide your money on your body by using scarves with hidden compartments, leg money belts, and seat belts with hidden wallets. If you plan to leave money in your hotel room, you can easily hide your cash if you make a plan. You can tape it underneath a drawer, hide it in a bag of food in the mini fridge, or even place it in a couch cushion.

in conclusion

Packing for a trip is easier and less stressful if you prepare ahead of time. Using the tips listed above will ensure that you are prepared. The most important thing you can avoid from reading this is how important it is to make sure your travel documents are secure. Keeping them in a folder, in a place where you will remember them and have easy access to them is of the utmost importance.

Another thing to remember is that you only need to pack the clothes you actually need. Exceeding the weight limit will end in a hefty fine. You may also want some room for souvenirs! Wearing layers on flights can also give you more room in your suitcase, but make sure you'll be comfortable as international flights are long and tiring.