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60 Packing Tips For Travel From Expert Packers

Get ready for your next trip with our complete list of minimalist packing tips.

Maybe you got stuck paying for an overweight bag on your last trip or had trouble finding what you needed because it was buried in the bottom of your huge suitcase. Whatever the reason, you want to start your journey toward becoming a minimalist packer. But where to begin?

Well, you're in the right place! Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve been giving our community packing tips for years to help them on the road to smarter travel. There’s plenty to consider, from knowing how much clothing you need to pack for a week’s vacation to how to adapt your packing list for warm or cold weather travel. Plus, of course, there’s the gear you use to pack it all up. From a carry on backpack to packing tips for toiletries and tech, we can help.

Since this is Pack Hacker, our first set of packing tips, of course, focuses on finding the right bag for you, and we also have tons of packing tips for clothing since it will take up most of your bag.

So here is our most comprehensive roundup of all the great travel packing tips we’ve given over the years, all in one place. Whether you’re looking for help packing a carry on, packing tips for international travel, or even suitcase packing tips, we can help you. So sit down, relax, and get packing!

Packing Tips To Find The Right Bag

• Travel with a backpack: When choosing the right carry on bag for you, we prefer to travel with a backpack instead of rolling luggage when possible. No matter where you’re traveling, you won’t have to worry about wheels getting jammed with snow, dirt, mud, and salt or worry about them getting stuck in cobblestone streets. Also, when you travel with a carry on bag, you won’t have to wait at the carousel for your luggage, so you can get right to your trip (or, if you get in late, hotel).
• Consider size and weight: When looking for a carry on bag, try to find one that weighs less than four pounds, so you can pack more gear without going over the airline weight limit. There are plenty of travel backpacks out there that are packed with organizational features. Check the carry on limits of your preferred airline before you buy one, though, to ensure it will fit their restrictions. After all, no one wants to check their bag at the gate if they can help it.
• Choose your gear first: Decide what gear you’ll need before choosing your bag. Do you need specialized compartments to hold your camera kit ? Or are you a digital nomad who will pack a lot of tech gear? Some of the best tips for packing we have to share are to choose low-profile versions of the items you’re not sure you’ll need, like a packable rain jacket or hat, so you can travel with a smaller bag.
• It’s hip to be square: If you’re looking for packing tips for international travel, or airline travel in general, choosing square-shaped bags with good structure are easier to pack with more gear while still holding their shape. That’s because you can use packing cubes to hold your clothing, and they’re easier to fit into a backpack with corners than a more rounded shape. These are also great suitcase packing tips, because cubes help you stay organized no matter what type of carry on bag you prefer.
• Check the features: The ideas we share for cruise packing tips will differ from our packing tips for international travel because they'll depend on the weather at your destination. Nevertheless, one thing holds true no matter where you’re heading: know the climate of the place you’re shopping for. You may need additional weatherproofing features if you plan to hike a glacier during your Alaskan cruise or prioritize locking mechanisms if traveling to more sketchy locales in Southeast Asia.
• Consider the access points: Don’t forget about quick-access pockets when you’re looking for the right travel backpack. After spending time packing your bag just right, you don’t want to dislodge it to pull out your passport or liquid toiletries for inspection. However, if you’re planning to bring a hat or travel water bottle and your pack lacks special pockets, our travel packing tips include using a carabiner to hook them onto a bag strap. We also like using compression straps to hang onto larger gear like yoga mats and tripods.
• Watch your back: lf you’ll be carrying your bag for a while, whether through the airport to catch your connecting flight or several blocks to get to your hotel or Airbnb, ensure your backpack has extra ventilation. It’s no fun arriving at your destination with a sweaty back or overheating on the walk to the bus. More packing tips for travel include checking out duffle bags to keep your back open if you know you’re heading to a hot and humid locale or even using rolling luggage if you don’t need to worry about ground conditions slowing you down.
• Invest in your gear: No matter what your travel needs, our packing tips for travel always include investing in the best gear so it lasts for trips to come. You don’t want to find yourself on the other side of the globe when the zipper rips off your cheap backpack or the handle snaps off your suitcase, so it pays to pay a little more at the start to avoid mishaps. Our suitcase packing tips and carry on packing tips always include inspecting your gear before you go. You may have tossed your trusty bag in a corner one too many times or discover that it degraded from being stored in the sweltering attic since you last traveled.
• Bring a packable bag: Your travel backpack may be the right pick for getting you from home to vacation, but you never know when you’ll need a daypack or sling while exploring. Instead, grab a packable bag to load up for daily adventures or shopping trips to the local market.

Packing Tips To Lighten The Load

• Lightweight is easier for travel: When you’re packing for one bag travel, it’s easier to pull a carry on out of the overhead bin than wait for the plane to unload. Plus, if you’re carrying a backpack, it can get heavy to lug around while you wait for your check-in time. Most airlines limit a carry on to about 22 pounds (10 kilograms), though, compared with the 50 you can usually get in a checked bag, so it’s important to review the rules of the airline you’re flying before leaving home. If they don’t count a personal item bag toward your limit, you can use it for heavier items, like a laptop.
• Bring the essentials: Deciding what’s most important to you is one of our best packing tips for travel. While bringing a travel neck pillow on board could be nice, you may want to leave it behind and save extra space for more clothing or tech gear. If you can travel with a smaller version of what you need, like bringing a tablet or a smartphone instead of a laptop, you’ll save space and weight in your bag.
• Sweat the small stuff to save ounces: Every ounce counts, so optimizing your gear and going for packable versions to lighten the load are great tips for packing. Think compressible travel water bottles and packable rain jackets instead of full-size gear, and opt for a minimalist wallet instead of a bulky bifold. Our carry on packing tips always include going through your wallet and leaving cards you don’t need while traveling behind.
• Bigger isn’t better: Another item to add to our list of packing tips for travel is to reduce the size of your gear, whether it’s by bringing just the head to your razor or toothbrush so you can pack a smaller toiletry bag, or bringing lighter-weight travel tech gadgets . While you may sacrifice a little if you bring a smaller battery bank with a lower capacity, it’ll be worth it to save weight and avoid surprise fees at the airport.

Tips To Pack Strategically

• Save space in your carry on: When’s the last time you returned from a trip without some sort of souvenir? When packing, leave space in your carry on bag for the fun things you might want to bring home, whether it’s a T-shirt, a tchotchke, or a new snack. Or be sure to bring a packable bag so you can carry them on the plane as a personal item bag on your return trip.
• Share space with a friend: If you’re traveling with family or a friend, you may be able to share space in each other’s bags to carry less. For instance, you may be able to pack all your gear for the plane in one personal item bag and use your companion's bag for snacks.
• Get creative with your gear: Pack gear that works double duty, protecting your glasses from scratches in socks, for example, or using a hoodie as a neck pillow. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can leave a lot of toiletries behind since there’s likely to be soap and shampoo in the shower. As for tech, don’t bring chargers for each item. Instead, bring one universal charger to power up all your gear.
• Lay it all out: When you’re packing, lay everything out and then divide it into piles of what will be used daily, less frequently, and rarely. Then consider the gear you use rarely or less frequently and see if there’s anything you can ditch to save weight in your pack. Lying everything out also gives you a better idea of how to pack your bag properly since you can first organize it by category and type.
• Practice your trip: One of the best packing tips is to do it early. Pack for your trip in advance, and then try living out of your bag for a while. Carry it around the block for a trial run to figure out how it will feel as you walk from security to your boarding gate. That way, if it doesn’t feel good, you can figure out what’s poking you in the back before you’re on the streets of New York City or Singapore.

Carry On Packing Tips

• Be strategic with placement: Where you pack your gear in your bag is just as important as what you pack. Keep heavy items in the center of your backpack that will ideally hit you between your hips and shoulder blades and as close to your back as possible for maximum comfort and weight distribution. Then make use of exterior pockets to keep travel essentials like a wallet, your passport, and an extra layer within easy reach.
• Add organization: If you don’t want all of your clothing to be in a messy heap when you reach your destination, use packing cubes and pouches to organize your gear. Not only can you keep your clothing sorted into different categories to be easy to find later, but you can make sure your rolls stay rolled instead of shifting and sliding around during your flight. If you're making multiple stops on your trip, pack everything in the same spot as you move around so you always know where to find it.
• Carry on wisely: Check the personal item limits of your specific airline because you may be able to use that to pack instead of paying for a carry on bag. If you get to the airport and find your carry on bag or checked luggage is over the limit, you can shift some items into your personal item bag to reduce the weight. And wear bulkier clothing on the plane since that will save space and weight, too.
• Organize and modularize your gear: If you switch between bags for different destinations, consider packing your gear in pouches. Then you can easily swap your tech accessories, from your travel backpack to your daypack .
• Stay secure: More packing trips for travel focus on security. Whether heading off the beaten path or to a busy metro area, you may want to invest in an anti-theft bag to keep pickpockets away from your gear. If you don’t, take extra precautions like packing your valuables innermost in your bag, and be sure to carry on sensitive gear (like medication) so it doesn’t end up on the wrong plane by accident.

Packing Tips For Clothing

• Know when to fold ‘em, when to roll ‘em, and when to bundle up: The clothing you pack will dictate how you pack it. Rolling will make your clothing more compact but can cause more wrinkles, so we don't recommend it for delicate fabrics like silk or linen. The Marie Kondo KonMari method of folding—where your items are folded lengthwise in thirds, then halved top to bottom, and in thirds that direction again—is faster and produces fewer wrinkles. Still, it works best in clamshell bags, cubes, or a traditional suitcase. For delicate fabrics, roll an entire outfit together. It causes fewer wrinkles, and then you won’t have to search for that one missing piece of your ensemble.
• Aim for versatility: Pack a capsule wardrobe by bringing pieces that can mix and match with each other so you can bring less. If you’re unsure of the weather or heading to cooler temperatures, more packing tips for travel include bringing items that can layer together for warmth. Also, pack gear that can serve double duty, like shorts you can swim in or a one-piece bathing suit that looks like a tank top when paired with bottoms.
• Mind your materials: When choosing items for a capsule wardrobe, one of our best packing tips is to opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or Merino wool , which naturally regulates your body temperature so you can get more uses out of one piece between washings.
• Prepare for Mother Nature: Even if you check the forecast in advance, it may not be right! So be sure to bring a packable rain jacket in case of sudden downpours, a packable travel jacket in case of cooler weather, and a travel towel in case it’s warm enough to hit the beach.
• Consider compression: If you’re looking for packing tips to fit bulky sweaters, jackets, and scarves in your carry on bag, we have one word for you: compression. While compression cubes and pouches are overkill if you’re only packing T-shirts and shorts, they work well for gear that takes up a lot of space, especially if you have to pack extra layers for colder weather.
• Space out: For the ultimate in compression, use a vacuum to suck the air out of space bags. Just realize that it will take more effort and leave your clothing more wrinkled—plus, you’ll have to find a vacuum at your destination to repack for the journey home.
• Dressy clothing is delicate: When you’re looking for packing tips for a dressy destination, we recommend using a garment folder to keep your clothing as neat as possible. They take up more room in your carry on bag, but some companies make ones that fit in larger travel backpacks. Or if it’s just a weekend trip for a wedding, use a garment bag as your carry on bag. You can usually fit shoes and a toiletry bag at the bottom; some even have extra pockets for organizing other small gear.
• If the shoe fits: Wearing bulkier shoes or boots on the plane is one of our best packing tips for travel, but if you do have to find room in your pack for travel shoes , you can use the inside to hold socks, chargers, souvenirs, and other small gear to make use of the otherwise-wasted space. And don’t forget a shoe bag, or even a plastic grocery bag, to keep the residue on the bottom of your shoes from dirtying the rest of your clothing and travel gear.
• Keep your gear dry: Bring a pack liner or a dry bag in your carry on bag so that you can stick any damp or smelly clothing inside for the return trip.

Packing Tips for a Road Trip

• Plan before hitting the pavement: Download entertainment and maps to prepare for the chance of losing a signal on the drive. We also recommend packing your car the night before. You’re more likely to forget something if you’re rushing at the last minute. Our other packing tips for travel on the road include aiming to leave before the sun sets. Seeing where you’re going will help you get off to a good start.
• Pack a car bag: Since you’ll want to pack your travel backpack or duffle bag in the trunk to save room for your passengers, fill a daypack or travel tote bag with the gear you’ll need on the road, like your ID, snacks, gum, and entertainment.
• Keep your dashboard tidy: Finding a place for everything will help you feel calm when you reach your destination, so use the center console for things like spare change, receipts, and snacks that don’t fit in your road bag. Making sure your travel mug fits in the cup holder and grabbing a small bag for trash before you leave home are more great road trip packing tips .
• Pack your vehicle strategically: Keep the items you’ll need on the road, like a travel neck pillow, extra layer, and your road bag, in the backseat so they’ll be within easy reach. Pack everything else in the trunk to prioritize legroom.
• Dress for the drive: A road trip is not the time to be on trend with your fashion (unless you’re going the athleisure route). Instead, opt for stretchy, comfortable clothing that won’t dig in when you’re seated for hours at a time. Plus, flexible fabrics are less likely to wrinkle in the car. And don’t forget to pack sunglasses . You may start when the light is dim, but you’ll be happy you have them after a few hours.
• Take care of your passengers: Packing tips for a road trip include packing for your passengers, as well! Ensure they’ll be comfortable with extra layers, snacks, and a travel neck pillow. Or use a packable jacket or packing cube to save space.
• Get your car cuisine on point: Packing healthy foods will sustain you for miles instead of junk food, which will make you feel sluggish and hungry faster. We like using soft-sided small coolers because they take up less room, and you can use one to pack snacks or a lunch, plus your drinks.

Minimalist Packing Tips For Summer Travel

• Stay hydrated: Nothing will ruin a trip faster than a headache brought on by dehydration. Stay ahead of the game when you travel with a collapsible water bottle since you can fill it when you need a drink, and it will take up less space when you don’t. If insulation is important to you, make space for a bottle that will keep your drink cold for hours, like a YETI or a Hydro Flask. Most travel backpacks have a water bottle pocket, so fill it up! If you plan to hike, outdoor packing tips for travel include looking for a daypack that can hold a water bladder.
• Don’t get burned: If you’re looking for cruise packing tips, listen up. You’ll probably be spending a lot of your trip in the sun, whether lying by the pool, on the beach, or exploring the destinations you stop at. Packing sunscreen will save you from paying inflated prices on the ship or at tourist destinations, and you can also save your skin by packing a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves. Look for a crushable hat and minimalist sunglasses so they won’t take up extra room in your bag.
• Find fantastic footwear: While some people can wander all day in flip-flops with nary a blister, we think vacation packing tips should include finding supportive sandals that will get you through a day’s adventures. And if you’re planning to be more active, wear moisture-wicking socks with your shoes to stave off sweaty feet. Breaking in the shoes or sandals you plan to wear before you leave home is a must, too, so you can relax comfortably on your trip.
• Stay fresh and clean: If you’re traveling somewhere that’s much warmer than you’re used to, be sure to pack some cleansing wipes and a packable towel in your travel daypack. Then you can wipe down to feel fresh and clean as you explore without feeling like you’ve melted by the end of the day.
• Expect the unexpected: If you’ve packed well in advance of your trip, checking the weather right before you leave may allow you to leave some gear behind. Of course, if you’re heading somewhere the forecast is unpredictable (hello, Florida), pack an extra layer or rain jacket just in case of a cold snap or an afternoon downpour. You can always use it as a travel pillow on the plane!

Budget Packing Tips

• Find freebies: Looking for budget packing tips? One of the best is to bring home free toiletries from the hotel and refill the bottles on your next trip. They’re likely the right size for your 3-1-1 bag, and you won’t have to purchase specific containers.
• Reuse household containers: Look around your house before buying travel bottles . Tic Tac canisters, pill bottles, and bead organizers can all be put to good use organizing your tiny tech, toiletries, and jewelry when you’re on the road. You can also use a hard glasses case as a DIY tech kit for small accessories and secure cords with hair ties or a rubber band.
• Mind your money: You don’t have to spend big bucks on a minimalist wallet. A binder clip works quite well to hold your cash and cards together, although it may feel slightly bulky in your pocket. Of course, you can also hold them together with a hair tie or rubber band, as well.
• Avoid laundry fees: If you are traveling for a while, we have some long-term packing tips for you. Don’t pay to send your clothing to the cleaners. Instead, hand wash your gear in the hotel sink with laundry sheets, a detergent you bring from home, or the hotel soap. Stick a dryer sheet in your travel backpack to keep your gear smelling fresh.
• Loc it up: If you haven’t invested in packing cubes, keep organized with a Ziploc bag! They work great as budget packing cubes, and you can even label them to make it easy to find your favorite tee when you get to your Airbnb. A pillowcase or a laundry bag can also work well.
• Make it personal: Here’s a suitcase packing tip for you. If you have to check a bag, personalize it with a ribbon, duct tape, a pin, or a patch to tell it apart from the rest on the carousel.

Tips For Packing Tech

• Carry space-efficient gear: Look for space-saving versions of tech accessories you can’t live without, such as a smaller wall charger, a silicone keyboard that rolls up, and a universal cord.
• Your phone can do everything: Most smartphones can do just about everything, from helping with navigation to keeping you entertained and recording your memories. So leave the camera, GPS, music, and game systems behind. You can even eliminate a minimalist wallet if you get a case with a pocket for cash and cards.
• Clean up your cables: Wrap up your cables and cords with cable ties, VELCRO, or gear ties. It will ensure nothing gets tangled in your tech pouch and let you see everything else inside at the same time.
• Downsize your pouches: More tips for packing tech include downsizing the case you carry it in. Whether it’s for tech, toiletries, or other gear, it will force you to be creative and pack less. Then you’ll save space and weight in your bag.
• Find a brand you love: If you like one or two pieces of gear by one company (it’s no secret that’s Apple for us!), you’ll likely enjoy most of their products, and when you go all in on one ecosystem, you’re more likely to be able to leave extra adapters and chargers behind, since they may all use the same equipment to power up.
• Bring backups: This goes double if you’re looking for packing tips for international travel, but if there’s a piece of gear you can’t live without, bring a backup. If you must have a certain cord, camera, or charger to work remotely, don’t take a chance of not being able to find it when you’re living the digital nomad life on the other side of the world.

Packing Tips For Travel To Cold Destinations

• Layer up: Packing layers for your capsule wardrobe is even more essential for cold weather. Our tips for packing cold-weather clothing include bringing a moisture-wicking base layer, a thermal shirt, and a mid-layer sweater or hoodie to keep you warm under an outer layer, like a packable puffer jacket. Top it off with a rain jacket, and you can take on almost anything. Plus, all those pieces work well solo when the temperature climbs.
• Invest in a rain jacket: They’re not just for spring showers. A good rain jacket will help buffet the wind, sleet, and snow, too, and since they’re usually pretty packable, it’s worth making room for them in your carry on bag.
• Don’t forget the accessories: You’ll be cold if you forget to cover your extremities, so be sure to bring a pair of gloves, a hat, and maybe even a scarf with you when traveling to colder climes. Our packing tips for travel include bringing a buff for its versatility. It can act as a scarf, a hat, a face mask, and an eye mask in a pinch, and it takes up so little space it’s worth bringing along wherever you go.
• Stay dry: You’ll be colder if moisture seeps in than you would in the same temperature when you’re dry. So invest in weatherproof pieces to keep precipitation at bay and moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry if they start to sweat in your warm boots.

Now for a bonus packing tip—get creative! If you follow all of these tips, you’ll have room for some of the extras you prefer to bring along. Being a minimalist packer doesn’t look the same for everyone, so customize our list to you and happy travels! And if you want to learn more, be sure to check out our YouTube channel for all of our minimalist packing tip videos.

June 6, 2023

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

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Essential Items for a Budget Travel Packing List

Marty Levart

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Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. With careful planning and packing, you can have an enjoyable and affordable trip. In this guide, we will outline the essential items you need to pack for budget travel.

Clothing and Accessories

When traveling on a budget, it’s important to pack the right clothing and accessories to ensure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Choose lightweight and versatile clothing that can be layered depending on the weather. Make sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, and rain jacket or poncho, in case of bad weather. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes and swimwear if you plan to visit the beach. Additionally, bring a travel towel and travel-sized toiletries if you’re staying in a hostel or somewhere they may not be supplied. Finally, a money belt or hidden pouch is essential for keeping your valuables safe.

Travel Gear

In addition to clothing and electronics, you should pack a few essential items to make your travels more comfortable. These items include a backpack or carry-on suitcase , packing cubes or compression bags, a travel pillow and blanket, a travel-sized first aid kit , a travel lock and cable, a travel umbrella, a portable water bottle , travel-sized laundry detergent , a travel-sized sewing kit, and travel-sized stain remover.

Technology and Entertainment

Having the right electronics can make a huge difference when traveling. Make sure to pack a travel adapter and chargers for all your devices. Additionally, a portable power bank can be useful for keeping your electronics charged when you’re on the go. Technology and entertainment items are also essential for budget travel. Packing a few items can help keep you entertained and connected on the go. Some items to consider include:

• Smartphone or tablet
• E-reader or books
• Portable speaker or headphones
• Universal travel plug adapter
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspot
• Camera or GoPro
• Travel journal and pen
• Deck of cards or travel games
• Portable charger for electronics

Miscellaneous

Finally, a few miscellaneous items are also essential for budget travel. These items can help you stay organized, safe, and comfortable while on the road. Some items to consider include:

• Travel insurance documents
• Passport and photocopies
• Visa and travel permits
• Local currency and emergency cash
• Travel guidebook or maps
• Snacks and reusable water bottle
• Travel-sized laundry bag
• Travel-sized toiletry bag
• Travel-sized sunscreen and insect repellent

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How to Pack: Tips from the Experts on Maximizing Space

By Rachel Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As I dusted off my suitcase for my first trip during the pandemic last month, a familiar dread came over me. Despite my track record of packing for two-week vacations in a carry-on suitcase , the process always takes me days of agonizing over every. single. item . Still, as soon as I get out the door, inevitably there’s that one item I wish I had packed that I end up thinking about the rest of the trip.

Before I sunk back into old habits, I reached out to organization experts and flight attendants—the ultimate frequent travelers—to learn the tricks of the trade. Below, 10 of their best packing tips.

1. Use the right suitcase for the occasion

Often, our instincts are to choose luggage based on the length of the trip. While it’s a definite factor, what matters more is the kind of trip. “A compact or medium-sized suitcase is ideal for a city break or beach holiday because you can easily pack a lot of light garments, which you'll need for daily outfit changes when the weather is hot and you've been walking all day,” says Etihad Airways flight attendant Adina Elena Beldie. Hard-sides like Away’s The Bigger Carry-On and Monos’ Hybrid Carry-On , as well as soft-sides like Samsonite’s NuRoad Carry-On Spinner fit the bill.

“On the contrary, an outdoor adventure trip would require a larger suitcase for all of your hiking gear, like thick clothes and bulky footwear,” Beldie adds. Top choices in the category include the REI Co-Op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel or Osprey’s Shuttle Wheeled 130L bag . “Lastly, in my experience, a business trip usually means packing light, although this can vary depending on the duration of the trip,” she says. No matter the size, Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Hardside Luggage fits the chicness and practicality factors with its Compact Carry-On or Medium Check-In .

2. Take the weight off of you

There’s no need for you (or your back) to bear the burden. “If you’re flying to your destination, spinners are a must-have,” travel packing expert Anne McAlpin of Pack It Up says. It’s not just about the luggage itself—it also serves as a way for your carry-on tote to slip over the handle. “The weight of the bag is carried by the spinner, not your shoulders, making traveling through long airport terminals a breeze,” she says.

Though many totes can slip right over the handles of carry-on luggage or a checked bag, sets complete the look, like Delsey’s Chatelet Hard+ two-piece set or Kenneth Cole Reaction’s Chevron Spinner with a Tote .

3. Make a list and check it twice

As with so many essential life tasks, writing out what you need is never a bad idea. “Create a packing list that includes all of your essentials, and then separate ones that are customized to your [trip's] relevant needs,” say the women of The Home Edit , Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin. One of the biggest mistakes people make, they say, is “just throwing things in a suitcase without a system in mind.”

A list can help you take note of if you’re over or underpacking, Beldie says, adding that, “Proper packing requires time.”

“I recommend adding items to your suitcase about a week in advance—not earlier than that as it’s important to check weather conditions at the destination, which will be more accurate closer to the trip,” she says.

If a handwritten list isn’t your speed, let your items be your visual list. “Lay everything out and start editing,” McAlpin says. “Hang outfits together, so you don’t forget anything.” She says to start two weeks ahead of time and to try everything on. “Part of the stress of packing is deciding what to take and what fits,” she says.

4. Find your own formula 

McAlpin says she’s been recommending her packing ratio—three to one, with three tops for every bottom—for more than 25 years. Most trips work with nine tops and three bottoms, especially when they’re in basic colors that mix and match. She also says not to exceed three pairs of shoes: running or exercise shoes, walking shoes, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops.

On the other hand, Beldie is about the twos. For each day of the trip, she says to think of two tops, two shorts, two T-shirts, two pants, and two undergarments . “For a business trip, packing two shirts per day is a good idea—one for meetings during the day, the other for dinner and night events,” she says.

For organizing guru Marie Kondo , it’s less about numbers and more about categories. “I recommend that you lay everything out first and categorize by type of item to give you a comprehensive look at how many items you have for each category,” she says. “Then fold everything into its smallest possible size. At that point, before you start filling the suitcase, pare down and be honest with yourself about what you really need for the trip.”

The most important aspect of the equation is simplicity: “What do you really need to have a joy-sparking trip? If your trip is for leisure, this is the opportunity to free yourself from everyday decision making and perhaps experience a simpler lifestyle. The fewer clothing options to choose from, the more you can focus on the joyful experience ahead,” she says. But there is one number she says to follow, “Leave 10 or 20 percent empty space so you can buy souvenirs and pack them for your return trip!”

Experts recommend laying everything out before packing your bag.

5. Consider clothing material and colors 

Eva Air senior assistant purser Jennifer Liao says to select the most packable clothing so you’re not constantly thinking about ironing. “Most flight attendants travel with clothes made from wrinkle-free fabrics such as synthetics, wool, denim, and knit—we don’t pack linen because it wrinkles so easily,” she says. Hues can also make a big difference. “The colors we pack are important. The darker the color, the fewer visible wrinkles,” Liao adds.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Tifsit Teferra, a Delta Air Lines flight attendant, says to focus on a wide range of choices, too. She avoids packing too many of the same thing: “Why take up space with six tees when you can bring a variety of tops—variety is the spice of packing!”

6. Less is more

McAlpin’s packing motto is: “Less stuff, less stress.” She once traveled 21 days in a 21-inch carry-on that was less than 21 pounds—covering diverse climates from India and Jordan to New York City. That pack light mentality is echoed across the board.

“People tend to, quite literally, weigh themselves down when traveling,” Kondo says. “Remind yourself that traveling is temporary and should be about the actual trip itself rather than extensive wardrobe selections. Packing just a few outfits that you absolutely love will make getting ready each day a breeze. Select clothes that are comfortable, do not wrinkle easily , and that make you feel good about yourself.”

“Not all items will apply to all people, and not all items will apply to all trips,” Shearer and Teplin say. “So if you absolutely, without a doubt, cannot live without an item, then by all means, bring it! Just remember: You get the item or you get the space, but you don't get both.”

7. Organize your clothes vertically and tightly

Though some packers prefer laying clothes flat, the experts we talked to agree that rolling is key to save space. “Clothes should be folded into their smallest possible size,” Kondo says. “Thin fabrics are best to roll to prevent wrinkles. Another tidy trick is to tuck your folded underwear into bra cups within your suitcase—it keeps the undergarment category together and saves space.”

Think of your suitcase as a table of contents of sorts—you want to be able take one look and know everything inside. “The key here is to pack your items vertically so you can see them all at one glance,” Kondo says. “That way, you don’t have to take out everything to find the one item you are looking for.”

8. Categorize your contents

Take that idea one step further with packing cubes. “They will help use vertical space and adhere to a tidy routine while on the road,” Kondo says. KonMari partnered with Paravel on the Packing Cube Quad, a set of four that makes categorizing easy on the go. Kondo suggests using the smallest one for underwear, the largest for bulky items like outerwear and towels, one of the middle ones for clean clothes, and the other for dirty ones. “What’s great about the packing cubes is that you can place your vertically folded clothes into the cube from your drawer at home, then transfer them straight into the drawers at the hotel, so it’s easy to unpack at the destination,” she says.

The Home Edit team put a different spin on them in the form of pouches. “Packing squares are the real game-changer,” they say of their Zipper Pouch Set . “They are so versatile, which is key when you're needing to pack different items for every trip. The trick is finding packing squares that fit what you regularly pack. We designed our own set with Calpak because we wanted a version that was large enough for storing shoes as well!”

If you want to give your items an extra squeeze, McAlpin suggests Baggallini’s long compression packing cubes , which fit right into that awkward space between the handles of most luggage to maximize space.

Tech cords and chargers might need a slightly different method to remain neat. Kondo’s shop sells a Bellroy Tidy Tech Kit , while Teferra goes more homemade: “I fold cords and then use Velcro tape to secure them.”

9. Wear your bulkiest clothing

Though we’ve heard those infamous stories of people layering on clothes to save on baggage fees, there is a time and place for wearing some of your essential needs on your back. “If you are going to a cold weather location, I suggest wearing your bulkier items like a coat and boots, and always carry your water bottle,” Teferra says. If you do need to put them in your suitcase, Teferra says, “Bulky items should always go at the bottom of your suitcase, and it’s best to layer them flat—never fold or roll them.”

10. Keep travel essentials packed

“We always say, if you stay ready, you won't have to get ready,” The Home Edit women say. Especially for frequent travelers, instead of constantly packing and unpacking, keep the items that you always take with you packed. “It helps to organize your travel toiletries and accessories ahead of time so your packing routine is essentially grab-and-go,” they add.

Liao agrees, admitting that the Eva Air team travels so much that “some of us keep essential items that we never unpack in our luggage.” The advantage can shave tremendous time on packing for your next trip. “All we need to do before each flight is pack clothes.”

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• Packing Tips

How to Pack Lighter, Smarter, and Faster, According to T+L Editors

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

No matter the length of the trip — be it a weekend beach getaway or a three-week Himalayan trek — you'll need to pack a bag, and you'll want to pack it right .

There's a lot to consider when determining what to bring: the type and length of your trip, your itinerary, the weather, the size of your luggage, and any weight limits imposed by your mode of transportation. And with so many factors at play, it's easy to overpack or underpack, especially if you've waited until the last minute.

Enter: the editors at Travel + Leisure , most of whom can be ready for a trip at a moment's notice. We're sharing our favorite ways to keep your clothes wrinkle-free, your cosmetics spill-proof, and your souvenirs safe, whether you're packing for a solo trip or for your entire family (kids included).

You'll learn how to best organize your carry-on luggage , how to pare down to avoid those excess baggage fees, and a few easy tricks to help you remember the little items you're most likely to forget .

With these travel packing tips, you'll be packing like a pro in no time. The only question that remains: Where will you and your impeccable packing skills be heading to next?

Pack by Outfit

"There's nothing more annoying than struggling to stuff everything back into your suitcase at the end of a trip only to realize you didn't even wear half the clothes you brought. That's why I started strictly packing by outfit — not individual item — and only letting pieces I had a plan for make the cut. I'll take a skirt only if I know I'm bringing a top and shoes that I would wear with it, and I'll think about the activities on my itinerary and what I see myself wearing while doing them. I hate checking a bag but love clothes, so being realistic and planning ahead is key." — Nina Ruggiero, Deputy Digital Editor

Lay Things Out First

"Even when I pack at the very last minute, I take time to lay everything out before any item goes into my bag. Grouping things together on my bed helps me see quickly what items don't pull their weight. A pair of pants that can only be worn with one top, or that requires shoes I wasn't already planning to pack? Back in the drawer. Seeing everything clearly before I start also helps me fit things into my bag in a logical way. For me, this means starting with my bulkiest items, then cherry-picking lightweight items to tuck into gaps around them to form a sturdy base layer to build up from." — Skye Senterfeit, Photo Editor

Have a Dedicated, Pre-packed Travel Dopp Kit

"One of the most frustrating parts of getting ready for a big trip is realizing that you can't zip up your bag until after you've brushed your teeth and packed the products you need in your toiletry bag. I keep a travel-only toiletry bag that has duplicates of everything I ever travel with ready to go in my suitcase." — Tanner Saunders, Associate Digital Editor

To buy: Rains Small Dopp Kit, nordstrom.com , $34

Choose a Soft-Sided Bag

"Packing in a soft-sided weekender or duffel gives you the flexibility (literally!) to shape your bag to what you're packing instead of the other way around. My canvas overnighter takes on a different shape depending on what I need it to hold and will squish, even when packed almost beyond its means, into spaces a hard-sided roller bag just won't go. I hope my current bag will last forever but I'm eyeing this simple weekender from Makr as its eventual replacement." — Skye Senterfeit, Photo Editor

To buy: Makr Fold Weekender Revised in Navy Canvas, makr.com , $185

Have a Ready-to-go Health Kit

"After going on international adventures and suffering food poisoning, sudden fever, cuts and scrapes, terrible bug bites, and other ailments — and then having to navigate a foreign pharmacy — I've learned to always pack a small medical kit . I keep a toiletry bag ready to go stocked with Band-aids, Neosporin, pain relievers, cold medicine, medicine for stomach trouble, itch relief ointment, antibiotics (you can ask your doctor for an emergency prescription before you travel), and ear plugs (life savers on long-haul flights and trains). And if you never have to use it, all the better!" — Karen Chen, Editorial Producer

To buy: First Aid Kit, amazon.com , $20.57

Separate Jewelry With Snack Size Bags

"Buy 'snack size' plastic bags for packing necklaces. To prevent tangling, give each one its own bag and fasten the clasp." — Kathy Roberson, Copy & Research Chief

To buy: Ziploc Double Zipper Storage Bags, amazon.com , $19.94

Check the Hotel Closet

"In the closet of most high-end hotel rooms, you'll find draw-string fabric bags for laundry and shoes. They're semi-disposable, but fantastic for packing. Trust me, using them to separate shoes and dirty laundry will totally transform your return-journey packing experience." — Flora Stubbs, Executive Editor

Be Prepared for Wet Swimwear

"I always pack a plastic grocery bag — or steal the shower cap from the hotel if I forget — to stash a wet bathing suit in for the return home. That way, we get to enjoy every last second on the beach." — Jacqueline Gifford, Editor-in-Chief

Use Marie Kondo's Folding Method

"All memes aside, I've been living the Konmari lifestyle for a few years now, and her folding method may be one of the biggest takeaways. Not only does the method save room in drawers at home, but the folded clothes can go quickly in a bag or suitcase for extremely fast packing. Another perk of using the Marie Kondo method is being able to see your entire wardrobe at once so you don't have to waste time digging in boxes of storage for off season clothes when taking a warm weather vacation in winter months." — Mariah Tyler, Visuals Editor

To buy: "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing" by Marie Kondo, amazon.com , $17

Roll, Don't Fold

"I always overpack, so rolling up my clothes so that they take up less space in my luggage is essential." — Devin Traineau, Associate Photo Editor

Keep Essentials Packed and Ready to Go

"I am a terrible packer. No matter where I am going, or for how long, or how far in advance I booked my trip, I will inevitably be up at 2 a.m. the night before, just one misplaced sneaker away from a complete meltdown. I've accepted this as an inevitability and tried to streamline the process where I can, so now, I always keep a clear toiletry bag packed with all my favorite products, so I can see at a glance what I have and add in a couple essentials (sunscreen for a lake trip, bug spray when there's hiking planned, etc.). I also keep a few plane go-to's — chargers, lip balm, eye mask, neck pillow — in my favorite travel bag, which helps me speed through the personal-item prep so I can get back to bemoaning my lack of good shoes and waffling on how many caftans and books I'll need for a four-day weekend." — Lila Battis, Senior Editor

To buy: Travel Smart by Conair Transparent Sundry Kit, amazon.com , $12.99

Invest in Luggage You Love

"For most of us, no matter how organized we are or how many times we do it, packing will just never be pleasant. The best way to make it more enjoyable? Invest in luggage you look forward to using, be it for functionality or style — or, ideally, both. As professional travelers, the T+L team spends a whole lot of time packing and unpacking, so we worked with top luggage brand TravelPro on a collection we knew we'd actually love to use. I have a set (including a checked bag, hardside carry-on, and tote), and all three pieces are sturdy, spacious, and basically do the organizing for you as you pack in their various compartments. I'm always happy to take them out of my closet and prep for a trip, and I feel good deplaning and exiting the airport in a new city with them in hand." — Nina Ruggiero, Deputy Digital Editor

To buy: travelpro.com

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

"No matter how hard I tried, I could never streamline my packing list — until I started thinking of it in terms of a capsule wardrobe with a specific color palette. I always start with a neutral (usually black or blue) and then build outfits based on the main events or activities happening during the trip. Usually it ends up consisting of two dresses, two pairs of pants, two tops, 1-2 sweaters, and a jacket. More brands, including Aday and Summersalt, are designing their lines so that everything mixes and matches easily, which makes building a functional but flexible packing list that much easier." — Sarah Bruning, Senior Editor

To buy: Wing It Sweater, thisisaday.com , $265

Wear Your Heaviest Clothes on the Plane

"As a chronic overpacker, and someone who never, ever checks a bag, weight limits are no friend of mine. That's why I always stick to the following motto when it comes to packing light: If it's heavy, wear it. Bulky jacket? Cute boots? Chunky sweater? I'll wear them all, then throw the jacket in the overhead bin, slip off my boots and into some compression socks, and usually keep the sweater on – a warm and cozy antidote for those often chilly airplane cabins." — Alisha Prakash, Senior Digital Editor

Keep Masks and Hand Sanitizer at Hand

"If you're traveling during the pandemic, you'll want to pack essentials like face coverings and hand sanitizer in your checked and carry-on luggage so you're never without. Keep them in an easy-to-access pocket so you can grab a fresh mask, wipes, or sanitizer whenever you need it." — Elizabeth Rhodes, Associate Digital Editor

Prepare for Travel Shopping

"Admittedly, packing light isn't easy for me. The only way I can get myself to not prepare for every possible scenario (and end up packing ski goggles next to swimsuits for the same trip) is by promising myself a little shopping while I'm at my destination. This helps me to pack only essentials and a couple of favorite items I know I'll wear or use. Then, I leave at least a quarter of my suitcase empty, ready to be filled with souvenirs. If I don't end up shopping, it's even more of a bonus — there's nothing better than lightweight luggage." — Kendall Cornish, Associate Digital Editor

To buy: Travelpro ® x Travel + Leisure ® Compact Carry-On Expandable Spinner, travelpro.com , $525

How to Pack Delicate Clothes

"I always roll my clothes, making room for more things in my suitcase (admittedly, I'm an overpacker), especially with fabrics that tend to wrinkle or crease easily, like silk or satin. For items that are especially delicate (hello, slip dresses!), I always, always, always roll them around a piece of packing paper. I like that over tissue paper because it's sturdier and tends to hold its shape even if things in my suitcase move around." — Deanne Kaczerski, Digital Content Director

To buy: Brown Craft Paper Roll, amazon.com , $58.25

Wait to Wrap Gifts

"If you're traveling during the holidays, wait to wrap your gifts when you reach your destination. TSA may have to unwrap presents to see what's inside, so it's best to bring the packing supplies with you or opt for bags and tissue paper for easy-rewrapping." — Elizabeth Rhodes, Associate Digital Editor

Related Articles

22 Budget Travel Tips: Wise Advice on How to Travel Cheap

Seeing the world doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, if you stick to our time-tested budget travel tips, you can take longer trips while minimizing damage to your savings account.

From using VPNs to find the cheapest flights to seeking out the lowest ATM fees, there’s a lot you can do to bring your travel costs down to a minimum. Best of all, you can do all this without compromising on the quality of your trip.

It’s tempting to throw caution to the wind now and again, but my advice is to look at a budget vacation as an investment in your future. The smarter you spend, the more places you’ll get to visit down the line. Isn’t that what we’re all after here?

So, if you’re looking for advice on how to travel cheaply, you’ve come to the right place. We’re all about squeezing value out of the tightest of budgets, and now it’s time for you to learn exactly how to do so.

Budget Travel Tips

• Research Affordable Destinations

Travel in the Non-Peak Seasons

Travel closer to home, house sit in exchange for free accommodation.

• Travel With a Partner or Friend

Book Your Plane Tickets Far in Advance

Use a vpn when searching for flights, consider staying in hostels, stay in accommodations that offer free meals, get a travel credit card & book with rewards points.

• Pack Camping Gear
• Perfect the Art of One-Bag Travel

Consider Van Life

Pay in local currency on credit card transactions.

• Withdrawal Local Currency for Trusted ATMs

Use Public Transportation Instead of Taxis & Ubers

Walk as often as possible, focus on free activities, go on a free walking tour, indulge in street food & other cheap eats, consult with locals for budget-friendly recommendations.

• Take Advantage of Grocery Stores and Local Markets
• Final Thoughts: Budget Travel Tips

Preparing for Your Trip

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail (or so I’ve heard). Before packing your bags and setting out, you can save a small fortune by following a few logical pieces of advice. Carefully planning and savvy trip-booking will save you heaps of money in the long run.

Research Affordable Destinations that Fit Your Budget

While this might seem like a no-brainer, it’s arguably the number one rule for planning an affordable vacation. You need to set reasonable expectations for a budget trip, which might mean going off the beaten path and trying something different.

Destinations like Paris and Bora Bora will always be in vogue, and by all means, cross them off your bucket list if you have the money. That said, visiting budget-friendly destinations like Mexico, Portugal , Eastern Europe, or Southeast Asia can be equally rewarding.

Traveling to a popular hub during peak tourist season is a big part of the appeal, but it is also the most expensive time to visit. Visiting during an unconventional season is a great way to see all the sights while saving significant money.

Not to mention, If you’re the type of person who prefers a little peace and quiet, vacationing out of season is a great way to avoid noisy flocks of tourists. Many destinations shine their brightest without the background noise, which could be true for yours too.

Everyone wants to see the world outside of their little bubble, but that might not be possible without a proper budget. The good news is that you can cut down on expenses and discover some hidden gems if you stay closer to home. Remember, traveling farther away doesn’t always mean having a better time.

Traveling closer to home will inevitably be more streamlined if you have a car or camper van of your own. As we discuss later on, a reliable vehicle is more than just a means of transport when you’re out on a road trip, which is excellent news for you and your precious budget.

Chances are, the price of lodging makes up the bulk of your travel expenditures, but there are ways to put a roof over your head without spending a penny. By offering to house-sit for a local and watch their pets, you can score a bed, a warm meal, and maybe even some extra cash.

If this reminds you too much of all the housework waiting back home, there are plenty of alternatives. Workaway offers lodging in exchange for a wider variety of services, while Couchsurfing lets you find strangers who’ll let you crash with no strings attached.

I’m all for being spontaneous and adventurous, but if you’re traveling by plane, waiting until the last minute to book tickets is usually a bad idea. Plane prices can vary wildly from day to day, and they almost always peak a few days before takeoff.

Booking a few weeks or even months in advance can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. The downside is having to commit to a game plan far in advance, but that’s part and parcel of traveling on a tight budget.

If you use VPNs to watch Netflix shows that aren’t available in your region, you’re not alone. But did you know that you can use the same trick to land an even better deal on your flights? Needless to say, the less money you spend on tickets, the more cash you’re left with at the end of the day.

Switching your location to another country (like Mexico, Malaysia, or Myanmar) will often result in a reduced ticket price. The process is relatively straightforward , and it only takes a few extra minutes of prep work for potentially significant savings. Why not give it a try?

Travel With a Friend or Partner to Split Expenses

When traveling, countless little expenses are constantly nibbling away at your bottom line. Heading out with your friend or partner can help stop the bleeding since you can split hotel rooms, gas money, grocery bills, and other essential costs.

Besides, it can get a little lonesome out there without anybody to share your experiences with. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of me-time if that’s what you’re after, but the longer your trip, the more you might wish you had somebody to share it with.

While a swanky hotel room is a welcome luxury for any traveler, it’s far from essential if you want to save money. If you don’t mind sharing a room with a handful of strangers, staying in a dorm room or a hostel is a great option to stretch your budget further.

There are a few important strategies to master if you opt for a hostel over a hotel . Still, if you prepare accordingly, hostel life should be a more rewarding and money-saving experience. Whatever you do, always bring a pair of quality earplugs for the inevitable snorers or sleeptalkers.

Eating out on the town is a great way to get a feel for how the locals live, but it can also get a bit pricey. An excellent way to get around that reality is to find accommodation that includes at least one free meal daily to keep things cheaper.

You can find these kinds of deals all over the world, and if you’re staying for an extended period, the savings really start to add up. For example, this hostel in Krakow lets you enjoy a whopping two meals a day for free while offering a super-comfortable bed to lay your head down.

Airline companies and hotels often partner with a specific credit card provider to offer special deals for users. If you play your credit card game right and do some research, you could snag a nifty welcome bonus and accumulate points that can lead to free or heavily-discounted travel.

One of the best ways to track these offers is through Nerdwallet’s best travel credit cards roundup . This post has come in handy for thousands of travelers, and it’s probably the best way to keep track of which cards are best for your travel style.

Pack Camping Gear & Sleep Under the Stars

We’ve reviewed several cheap lodging options, but if you enjoy the outdoors, you might not need to pay anything at all. Camping is a great way to connect with nature without investing much beyond a simple tent and inflatable mattress.

This might not always be an option since you’ll need good weather and a nice campsite to set up shop. That said, if the name of the game is saving money, it doesn’t get much more affordable than camping out for free in the cozy confines of your tent.

Perfect the Art of One Bag Travel & Avoid Baggage Fees

There are plenty of reasons to consider traveling light – mainly the privilege of mobility. Beyond that, though, it also helps on the spending front – chances are you need far fewer supplies for the average trip than you might think.

Baggage fees have been known to take large bites out of travel budgets, but with a bit of personal item carry-on magic, you can save significant money that would be better spent elsewhere. Just be sure you buy a properly-sized bag that’ll fit underneath the seat in front of you.

Buying a camper van is a significant investment, but it will pay off in the long run if you travel a lot and even make it your primary residence. Why overspend on “affordable” NYC hotels when you have something like the Brooklyn Van Alley to fall back on?

If you have zero experience with mobile homes, there will be a bit of a learning curve . Besides the vehicle, you’ll also need to set some money aside for essential supplies . Still, if you can survive that initial investment, a camper van might just pay for itself in due time.

After You Arrive at Your Destination

Planning the trip is just the beginning – there’s arguably even more clever maneuvering once you reach your destination. Here’s what you need to keep in mind after you’ve arrived:

Poor currency conversion rates might not seem like the biggest deal, but they add up over time. A few cocktails and into your trip, you may fall into the bad habit of pressing the button to be charged in your home currency on the credit card reader rather than the local one. Hate to break it to you, but the conversion rate is never in your favor.

To avoid the conversion fees imposed by most credit cards, paying in the local currency is always a good idea. These fees apply whether you’re at a restaurant or a retail store, so be mindful before reaching for your wallet.

Use Well-Reviewed Money Exchange Businesses & Withdrawal Currency from Trusted ATMs

When you arrive, you might feel too tired to stress over where you withdraw local currency, but you mustn’t jump the gun. Not all exchange desks will give you the best deal, so always check Google reviews before blindly handing your money to the first money changer you see.

The same goes for ATMs, too – depending on the bank or the machine itself, you may get charged an unreasonable fee, even if you withdraw the local currency. Dynamic Currency Conversion isn’t as helpful as it sounds, so use your best judgment.

Taxis and Ubers can be very convenient in a time crunch but are also quite expensive. Often, a taxi driver will pick you up knowing that you’re a tourist (even if you speak the local language) and charge you a higher price than what’s fair.

The safer bet is usually to rely on public transportation whenever possible. On top of it being cheaper (and often free), it’s easy to keep track of where buses, trains, and trams take you if you use Google Maps to plan your route.

Even if you aren’t on a budget, walking is almost always preferable to driving when visiting a new location. Besides being free, it’s also great for your health and lets you see more of what the region has to offer at your own pace.

Also, a vacation is the perfect time to pick up the habit of walking or hiking back home. The physical, psychological, and emotional benefits of walking large distances daily can be life-changing, so lace up your walking shoes and give it a shot.

The only thing better than “cheap” is “free,” and in the digital era, all it takes to find a free activity is to look it up online. From annual events at parks to free museum days and other meetups , there are almost always free activities to discover in major cities.

Remember, though – just because something is free of charge, it doesn’t mean you should go out empty-handed. Your activity of choice may feature some “hidden” fees now and again, or it could lead you to a pricey detour down the line.

Knowing nothing about your destination is a surefire way to spend more money than you need to. Thankfully, most major tourist hubs offer walking tours that help you immerse yourself in the local culture and discover some fantastic spots.

You’re likely to meet other like-minded budget travelers on a walking tour, so you might even leave with an extra friend or street food buddy. Just be sure to tip your guide for their trouble – think of all the money they helped you save by showing you around.

One thing to remember about tourist traps is that they often know they can overcharge curious travelers from faraway lands. It’s okay to indulge in an expensive meal in the heart of town, but if you’re looking to save money, try out some delicious street food for a fraction of the price.

In some ways, street vendors can give you a better idea of the ins and outs of the local cuisine. On that note, don’t be afraid to head out to the outskirts, either – this is usually where you’ll find some more affordable eateries unknown to most tourists.

If anyone knows the restaurants and attractions that offer the best value for money, it’s the locals. Relying on Google reviews is all well and good, but an insider’s advice can be way more helpful and rewarding.

Depending on where you go, it’s not uncommon for a friendly local to invite you into their home for an authentic, home-cooked meal. Putting the money aspect aside, this is one of the most wholesome vacation experiences you can hope to find. Chat up a friendly local and see where the conversation might lead you.

Take Advantage of Grocery Stores & Local Markets

If push comes to shove, remember that going to a restaurant is almost always more expensive than whipping up the same meal yourself. Even if you don’t have a kitchen to work with, you can always grab some affordable food from the grocery store and enjoy a simple picnic.

This is also a great way to connect with the local culture. There’s no better way to get a feel for how the natives eat than by walking the same grocery store aisles they do. You might even get hooked on some new flavors you never knew existed.

Budget Travel Keeps You on the Road Longer

And that concludes our list of the best budget travel tips to keep in mind before planning your next trip. We’ve laid out our best advice based on many years of affordable travel, and we hope it’ll serve you well on your adventures.

The devil is in the details regarding saving money, so if you take advantage of a handful of clever travel hacks, you can rest assured that you’ll maximize your budget. Whenever I check my bank statements after a long trip, I’m always amazed at how far a few good decisions were able to stretch my money.

There’s a dollar to be saved around every corner, and if you’ve been around as many corners as we have, you know how important that can be. Learning to appreciate the simple pleasures of travel really goes a long way.

The bottom line is this: while the best things in life might not be free exactly, they can cost less than you might think. The sooner you learn how to travel cheaply, the more the world will open itself up to you.

Last Updated on March 18, 2024

Andrej Paskalov

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

25 Expert Packing Tips to Help You Travel Better

• Updated: 04/08/2024

I am on a constant quest to shrink and streamline all the prep that comes with travel. To help, I created three essential lists to get out the door faster and with less hassle. They will help you do the same. 

Table Of Contents

These travel prep helpers include: 

• A universal printable packing list
• A close-the-house printable checklist
• 25 top packing tips for plane travel

Click the links above to access the packing and close-the-house lists.  Then, find my top 25 packing tips I compiled after 25+ years of solo, backpacking, business, couple, and family travel in the US and abroad that will help you pack faster, lighter, and travel better, in the article below.

14 Tips for All Travelers

1. Use a universal and reusable packing checklist. Create, or use a list like the one I share in “ Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List ” that contains repeat items you bring on every trip (e.g., socks, pants, underwear, medicines, etc.). Using this list will help you avoid the work of recreating a list from scratch for each trip and help you remember more things.

2. Buy trip essentials in advance. Purchase the trip essentials you do not have a few weeks before the trip to avoid the hassle of last-minute shopping errands before you leave or the cost of expedited shipping. 

3. Pack light and ideally carry on . Light packers are more mobile travelers. Traveling with carry-on luggage will save you time exiting the airport and give you more flexibility to quickly change your travel plans. Additionally, should you need to shoulder your load on public transportation or up and down stairs—your lighter-weight carry-on will be easier to maneuver.

Despite the advantages of carry-ons, my family and I nearly always check a bag for these three reasons .

4. Review the luggage requirements for your airline(s) . Especially if you plan to travel internationally and with a carry-on only, confirm on the airline website FAQ section that the size of your bag and its contents—particularly the liquids—meet requirements. Otherwise, you may need to check your bag. While on the site, look at baggage fees to avoid surprises. 

5. Employ math. Consider using a ratio of three to one when you pack to limit what you bring. Three tops to one bottom. And three pairs of shoes for one trip. 

6. Plan your outfits. Take the time to color-coordinate the clothes you plan to bring. Outfit planning will help you pack less and seamlessly swap items as you layer on or off in changing weather. Also, consider bringing along travel-friendly fabrics that avoid wrinkles and dry quickly.

7. Check the weather. Before you leave, check the forecast for your destination. Bring clothes to accommodate the lows and highs or possible precipitation.

8. Get organized. Use compression packing cubes  and a hanging bathroom organizer to keep things separate and make unpacking a breeze. If you use cubes, check out these helpful tips about packing cubes  to make the most of these incredible space-savers.

9. Maximize space. Tightly roll your clothes instead of folding them, especially if you do not use compression packing cubes. Rolled clothes will take up less room in your suitcase.

10. Contain contaminating items. Bring laundry and Ziploc-style plastic bags to separate dirty clothes and leaky items. Or, if you are a frequent traveler, get reusable laundry bags or zip-top bags  like the ones I share in this traveler gift guide . If you do not have a travel laundry bag, bring a trash bag—this works great too. If you want to keep your shoes separate so mucked-up soles do not touch other items, plan to stick each shoe in a plastic shower cap .

11. Pack the heaviest items on the bottom. Top-heavy suitcases topple over and are harder to maneuver. Ensuring the heaviest items are at the bottom of your bag will make it easier to handle.

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12. Use a distinctive luggage tag . Whether picking up checked luggage from the baggage carousel or setting your carry-on next to you in a lounge area, many bags look alike, so it is easy to grab the wrong one. I share my favorite distinctive tags in this traveler gift guide. 

13. Keep your bag subdued. Bright and colorful luggage not only grabs your attention but the interest of would-be thieves as well. For this reason, keep your luggage colors dark or neutral to look like other bags. Differentiate with your tag. 

14. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane. If you need a fleece, a parka, or pair of boots for your travel adventure, plan to wear this on the plane to leave more space in your luggage.

6 Tips for Travelers Checking a Bag

For travelers who plan to check a bag, find six more tips below to help navigate potential checked-bag complications.

15. Be strategic about your personal item. If you plan to check a bag, be sure you have what you need in your personal carry-on items in case of a flight delay, cancellation, or baggage loss. See a list of recommended items that are part of my universal packing list here. 

16. Always pack a backup outfit in your carry-on . In case your bag is delayed or lost, having one additional outfit on hand will let you refresh more quickly and feel less grubby after a long day of travel.

17. Carry valuables and travel essentials with you . Bags can get lost or delayed. For this reason, avoid packing items such as valuable jewelry or gifts in checked baggage. Additionally, try to carry on irreplaceable gear that is essential for upcoming trip activities if you can manage it.

18. Get a tracking device like an Apple AirTag . If you would like to have the reassurance of knowing where your bags are always, consider using Apple AirTags . Purchase a pack of four for under $100. For non-iPhone users, consider this alternative from Tile .

19. Stay under weight limits. Most US carriers have a 50-pound weight limit for checked luggage. If traveling in a group or as a family, distribute the heaviest items among bags. And if you think you may exceed weight limits, consider shipping items to or from your destination—it may cost less than paying overage or additional bag fees.

20. Buy trip insurance. I buy travel insurance for every international and some domestic trips for several reasons . Though, when it applies to checked luggage, I purchase it to cover reimbursement expenses related to delayed or lost baggage. 

To learn more reasons why it makes sense to purchase travel insurance for every trip, check out “ Travel Insurance Simplified: 4 Reasons You Need It & 18 Things To Know Before Buying It .”

5 Essential Items to Always Have on Hand

Here are the five most essential items I bring on all trips.

21. High-performance quick dry underwear . If you like to be active on your trips—with long days of walking, hiking, or more vigorous activities—high performers from travel favorite ExOfficio will keep unmentionables fresh and issue-free.

22. Cold suppressant . I never leave home without a pack of UMCKA cold suppressant tablets . The moment I feel achy or a twinge of a sore throat, I take one and nearly always cut off a nasty cold before it starts. 

23. Medical Kit . We bring a complete medical kit that can address most typical traveler-related medical ailments for my family on all our trips. It helps us avoid inconvenient, last-minute, and possibly unsuccessful searches for the correct medication. See a complete list of what we bring here .

24. Sunscreen. For my fair-skinned family, bringing a hefty supply of our dermatologist-recommended Blue Lizard sunscreen  is a must-have. And the main reason we tend to check our bags vs. carry on.

25. An unflashy crossbody bag. I love this unisex crossbody bag from North Face with its sturdy strap and zippered pockets to safely carry essentials. Low-key bags like this avoid being targets, and their zippers make it more difficult for would-be pickpockets to be successful.

The bonus item I never forget to bring: Copies of all essential travel documents (e.g., passport, credit cards, travel insurance, etc.) and contact numbers . In case of an emergency, non-working bank or credit cards, or theft, I save all necessary documents and contact numbers to online accounts with passwords memorized. I also send copies to a family member. 

Related Reading

To further simplify your packing and the getting-out-the-door stage of your vacation—pair the above packing tips with these related articles below.

• Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List
• Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack 
• Itinerary Template for a Trip: Free Downloadable Examples & More Resources
• 49 Things You Need to Do to Plan Your Best Trip (Free Travel Research & Planning Checklist)
• The Top Travel Apps I Use for Better Travel
• 5 Proven Ways to Simplify and Organize Your Travel Research

Additional Trip Planning Resources

To further help you with travel planning, I share my go-to resources for every trip below. 

Google Flights. My first research stop for affordable flights for every trip. Learn why here . 

Google Hotels . Use its “ Where to stay ” button to discover the best neighborhoods to base your visit.

Booking.com. For hotel and rental bookings, I appreciate its flexible cancellation, candid user reviews, discounts, loyalty program, and easy-to-use interface.

Viator , Get Your Guide , & Airbnb Experiences . Quickly find and book highly-rated tours and activities on these sites.

Google Travel Things to Do & Google Maps . Find more things to do in your destination on Google Travel, then record where you want to visit on a custom Google Maps list. 

AllTrails . Love to hike? Me too. I religiously use AllTrails to discover hiking and biking trails and download its offline maps to manage my hikes.

Guide Along . 5-star self-guided audio tours that are GPS-compatible for US road trips and national parks. We loved the Glacier National Park tour .

Insure My Trip. I never travel internationally without trip insurance. Learn why here . My preferred place to shop and compare policies is InsureMyTrip.com . 

Plus, check out the 15 travel apps I use on trips, my preferred guidebooks , and my free customizable travel itinerary template , downloadable in four file formats.

About the author:  Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog,  Gather and Go Travel . Check out  her bio , learn how she became  a blogger , and discover how to  work with her . Sign up for her monthly  Discovery Newsletter  to get her latest travel recommendations and  how-to’s .

Love to travel? Sign up for m y monthly Gather & Go Travel Discovery Newsletter and get a free trip budget calculator .

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

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20 responses.

Great article on travel packing tips! Your detailed checklist is a lifesaver, especially the reminder about the essentials that are often overlooked, like adapters and first-aid kits. I’ve learned the hard way how important those can be. Do you have any recommendations for compact, multi-use items that can save space and still cover most needs? Thanks for the insightful post—it’s going to make preparing for my next trip much easier!

Tarandeep, thank you for the positive feedback. Glad to hear you benefitted from the read.

These expert packing tips are a game-changer for travelers! Efficient packing is key to stress-free journeys, and these insights are invaluable. Thanks for sharing such helpful advice. Can’t wait to implement these tips and travel smarter on my next adventure

Thanks, Saurabh. Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for reading.

Your tips are awesome. You have shared in your blog how to pack a backpack and what to pack in it, which is very useful. Thanks for the blog!

Your blog post was informative and practical. I found the tips and advice you provided to be useful and easy to implement. To learn more, click here .

You are welcome, thank you for taking the time to read the article 🙂

“Thank you for the invaluable tip! Your advice about checking airline luggage requirements is a real lifesaver for hassle-free travel. Much appreciated! ✈️🙌

Thank you for taking the time to read the article and share a comment. Good luck with your packing!

Amazing advice! I’ve never been good at packing, but these professional tips make it so much simpler. I appreciate you sharing.

Thank you, glad to learned it helped!

I never thought about using dryer sheets in my suitcase to keep my clothes smelling fresh during travel! That’s such a clever tip. This article really opened my eyes to some creative packing hacks that I’ve never considered before. I’ll definitely be implementing some of these ideas on my upcoming trip. Thanks for sharing such valuable expertise!

Thank you for taking the time to read the article.

Thank you for taking the time to read it.

Thank you for reading.

Such a helpful blog! Your article provided valuable insights and tips that have helped me plan my travels more effectively and avoid common mistakes that can ruin a trip. I have been following your blog for a while now, and I am always impressed by the quality and depth of your content.

Thanks for sharing this valuable information with us. I am always confused, when it comes to packing and all. But really thanks to your article, it really helps alot.

nice information

Very helpful, keep sharing the good stuff.

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Welcome to Gather and Go Travel , a blog inspiring families, adult friends, and couples to explore US and international destinations and to get outdoors. I am Janice, an experienced traveler to over 50 countries and a travel writer, book lover, and blogger. Learn more about me , read our story , and how to work with me .

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What I Pack for My Travels: Your Guide to Packing

After over ten years of traveling the world , what I carry in my bag has changed a lot. Most of that change has to do with the fact that I now carry a lot of gear related to blogging, but it also reflects that I’ve learned a lot about packing since I first hit the road in 2006.

I’ve traveled with big duffel bags, 60L packs, 30L packs, carry-ons, and everything in between. I’ve learned different packing techniques through the years.

And today I want to share that knowledge with you.

So, what should you pack on your trip?

As little as possible.

Packing light is a cliché, yet one that has a lot of truth to it. The more I travel, the more I realize I don’t need a lot of stuff. Everything I need now fits into one backpack (for more recommendations from my years of testing backpacks, click here for my top travel backpacks .

I like to write down everything I think I’ll need — and then cut it in half. I always ask myself, “Will I use this enough to justify the weight?”

Most of the time the answer is no.

I take only the essentials, and if I really need something I didn’t bring, I buy it on the road. It’s not that hard to find medicine, clothes, or an umbrella overseas.

I also try to stick to the same climate during my trips to avoid having to carry lots of different kinds of clothes. I don’t want to be lugging sweaters around Thailand ! However, plans can change, and if that happens, I’ll buy a light jacket or a sweater. I’ll keep it until it is a burden and then give it away.

Also, you can do laundry overseas so I like to carry enough clothes for 7-10 days, do laundry, then repeat. There’s no need to bring a lot of stuff when you can just wash what you have.

As for the long answer to what you should pack? Well, below is my suggested packing list — but you should tailor this to your needs.

( Note: This focuses on travel to a non-winter climate. If you’re heading somewhere cold, you’ll need to adjust accordingly.)

Table of Contents

3. Toiletries

4. small medical kit, 5. miscellaneous.

• Universal power adapter/converter
• External battery/portable charger
• Kindle (if you’re an avid reader and don’t want to lug around books)
• Camera (if you want more than just smartphone photos)

For more gear recommendations, check out this post on the best travel gear.

• 1 long-sleeved T-shirt
• 1 pair of jeans (heavy and not easily dried, but I wear them a lot — a good alternative is khaki)
• 1 pair of shorts
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1 bathing suit
• 1 pair of flip-flops
• 1 pair of sneakers
• 8 pairs of socks (I always lose my socks so I take extra! I have no idea where they go?)
• 1 pair of dress shoes (heavy to carry around, but when I visit friends, we usually go somewhere not sneaker-friendly. This is destination dependent. I do this more in Australia and Europe and less so everywhere else.)
• 1 dress shirt (for going to a respectable place in the evening)
• 1 pair of black dress socks
• 1 toothbrush
• 1 tube of toothpaste
• 1 package of dental floss
• 1 small bottle of shampoo
• 1 small bottle of shower gel
• 1 towel (always pack a towel!)
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Antibacterial cream
• Hand sanitizer

For more on first aid kits, check out this detailed post on how to make one for any destination .

• A key or combination lock (everyone should have one!)
• Headlamp (trust me, it comes in handy)
• Ziplock bags
• LifeStraw (water filter)

  Special tip: Buy a small backpack so you won’t be tempted to overpack. We subconsciously like to fill empty space, so if you have a big bag, you’re more likely to overpack just so you don’t waste space. By getting a smaller backpack, you’ll be forced to take only the essentials — a mind trick that works very well!

I’ve found that this list leaves me wanting for nothing. I’m sure many of you will read this and say, “But what about X?” or “You really don’t need Y.” Well, that works for you, and this list works for me. Tailor your list to suit your travels.

I write this post not because I think there is one perfect way to pack but to answer the recurring question about what I pack and why. This is my list and suits my “chase the summer, live in hostels” lifestyle.

But the real point I want to emphasize is that you really don’t need a lot when you travel. You never need as much as you think.  

• Are you female traveler? Click here for a packing list for female travelers!
• Looking for a backpack? Click here to figure out how to pick the best backpack!
• Want more gear information? Click here for more tips on what travel gear to bring!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

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30+ Essential Suitcase Packing Tips & Hacks That You Need to Copy ASAP

Last Updated: October 30, 2023

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On the hunt for suitcase packing tips?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this free smart packing guide on how to pack a suitcase like a pro.

If you’re anything like me, odds are: you’re a hopeless over packer. After all, some of us are just born a little weird… like “ I need to pack this parka just in case ” weird or “ of course I’ll read all 7 Harry Potter books this trip ” weird… but this guide will help you get over that.

As someone who has been travelling and living in Europe for the past five years, I’ve learned a thing or two about what packing tips and hacks actually work and what weirdo ones are a total waste of time.

Save these suitcase packing tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

From the basic ‘no duhs’ to some unconventional gems of genius, today, I’d like to share all of my best tips for packing with you!

Especially if you’re headed to Europe.

While I’m still the world master of ‘panic packing’ (aka throwing all my stuff in a suitcase while sobbing), having these tips in mind often helps me hold things together.

So, without further ado, here are my golden essential tips for smart bag packing.

VIDEO: Watch These Travel Packing Hacks and Tips in Video Form

More of a video person? Click here for a video featuring all these tips instead!

Below, you’ll find my full written guide for luggage packing like a pro.

Must-Know Suitcase Packing Tips

Let’s start with some basic luggage packing tips! After five years of travelling professionally, from Indonesia to Germany , these are my best tips to show you how to pack your suitcase like a consummate professional.

1. Always start with a packing list

Packing luggage should always begin with a solid list of what to pack.

I know, this is such a ‘mom’ tip, but there’s a reason why moms are always right. Plus the human brain adores lists.

Especially in the period before a trip when you’re stressed about all the things to do before traveling abroad , it’s all too easy to forget items you need.

That’s why I always make a packing list to keep myself organized!

Feeling lazy? You can steal a comprehensive printable checklist from me below.

Or… if you’re a serial stationary hoarder like me,  this stack of printed packing lists is practical, fun, and will last you a long time.

2. … and always end by reviewing your packing list

It’s silly how often people forget this step.

There’s a reason you made that list!

Make sure you go through all the items the night before you leave (or the morning of) to make sure you haven’t forgotten a single thing, especially the small stuff.

For extra paranoid parrots like me, I always write a “HARDCORE ESSENTIALS” note on my phone that I review the morning of my flight.

Things like passport, money, hair straightener (sorry, I’m vain), and sunglasses (the #1 thing I manage to always forget). This way I know I have everything I absolutely need.

Again, if you buy a packing list pad like this , you can just leave it on top of your bag the night before so you don’t forget to double check it!

3. Know your airline’s baggage fee policy

Every packing guide will give you this tip, but I’m here to underline it and circle it in a bright red pen, especially if you are visiting Europe.

Because seriously, the inconsistency among airlines (especially the budget variety like RyanAir or Wizz Air ) is pretty infuriating.

SO, avoid surprises at the airport by knowing what you’re working with right from the start. A quick Google before you pack can help save you loads of stress (and potential overweight fees!)

You can also invest in a cheap handheld luggage scale  like this one  for less than 10 bucks off Amazon which you can use for years and it’s great for ease of mind.

If you don’t have one already, I also highly recommend buying a compact looking carry-on suitcase like this one.

A lot of the time, attendants don’t care to weigh luggage (when you’re travelling carry-on only) and all they do is take one quick look at the size, so if you have a nice suitcase that doesn’t  look  huge, you’ll be much less likely to get stopped.

Which would I recommend? Well,  this one is near-identical to the Samsonite I travel with, and I’ve never once been stopped for bag inspection! I love the ease of mind it gives me and it can hold a surprising amount of stuff. I travel with it on pretty much every trip!

4. Bring the right bag

One of the most underrated luggage packing tips is to firstly choose the right luggage.

The topic of “best bag for traveling” is highly subjective of course, but I really can’t stress enough how important it is for you to choose the right bag for your travel style and destination.

Bringing the right bag is the difference between breezing through your travel days without crying vs. sobbing in a frustrated puddle on your hotel floor.

Okay – that’s dramatic, but having the right bag is  important. 

For me personally, I’ve outgrown the backpacking stage of my life and tend to do a lot of city breaks, stay in mid-range hotels, and  travel light  because I’m so often on the go.

That’s why I travel with a very compact carry-on hard shell suitcase (almost identical to  this one ).

I think one of these is perfect for European travel because they’re quite handy, easy to carry, fit nicely on trains and overhead bins and still look pretty smart so you don’t feel terribly out of place in fashionable cities like Paris or  Milan .

Of course, if you’re travelling with a family, you’ll need bigger bags, or if you’re backpacking, you’ll need a good backpack.

What’s important regardless of the type of bag you choose is you pick something that…

• A) you LOVE, because you’ll have it ALL the time
• B) something that you’ve tested before
• C) something that you can easily carry because Europe has so many stairs, cobblestones, etc.

5. Roll your clothes

Game. Changer.  

If you’re wondering how to pack clothes for travel, one of my best suitcase packing tips is for you to simply roll your clothes! Seriously, if you’re not currently rolling your clothes instead of folding them, do it!

It saves lots of space, especially when coupled with magical compression bags like these ones (no vacuum needed!) packing cubes (which I’ll discuss later).

The jury is still out on whether it actually saves space or actually minimizes wrinkles but I love it because it makes it way easier to see at a glance what you’ve packed and what items you can choose from.

If you’re feeling especially crafty you can master the art of something called the  Ranger Roll  which apparently is used a lot in the military – it basically rolls your garments into fun little burritos.

This helps compress things but I’m a bit lazy so I just roll like normal and it’s fine.

6. Pick out what you think you need, and cut it in half

The first time I read this tip for packing light , I thought it was absolute insanity.

Then, one time I actually tried it, and you know what? I didn’t regret it at all!

While this may initially feel like a slow painful form of packrat torture, doing this will cut you down to the exact essentials you’ll actually need.

I honestly think that overpacking is hardwired in us, which is why doing this exercise is so helpful.

7. Make use of packing cubes (or in a pinch, Ziplock bags)

If you are wondering how to pack luggage and save space, the answer is packing cubes.

I am obsessed with packing cubes. The amount I own is honestly frightening.

They not only help you stay organized, but also save loads of space in your suitcase/backpack. These are my #1 travel game changers, and if you buy a good quality set, they’ll last a super long time.

I personally use my packing cubes to organize tops, bottoms, etc. but I’ve also heard of people with a different packing cube strategy which involves getting small cubes and separating them into different outfits for each day.

If you want to know which packing cubes to buy, check out my full guide to packing cubes  or watch my video showdown  here.

8. Invest In Protective Covers /Wraps

Now, this tip is more geared towards people like me travelling with any kind of fragile gear like cameras, gimbals, etc.

But really if you travel with anything mildly fragile like perfume bottles or intend to buy anything fragile like mugs… (I love a good a mug) then it’s really handy to have some of these protective wraps with you.

I have two,  this one  from Domke which is a great brand, but also an  Amazon brand one  that does the exact same thing for way cheaper.

They’re basically these padded Velcro wraps that you can use to protect anything. I use them for my camera and gimbal, so I effectively turn any bag of mine into a camera bag and can just wrap any item up really easily and toss it in my backpack.

Of course, you can also use a fluffy scarf or something for the same purpose, but I just think the wraps are a little bit smarter and easier to handle, plus they’re not very expensive so they’re a good purchase if you travel often.

9. Plan Your Outfits

A tough piece of packing advice people hate hearing is that they shouldn’t ever bring things just in case.

This goes for everything, from the random gadgets you think you might need to the extra ballgown you want to bring in case you get invited to a ball.

But really, one underrated packing tip is to plan your outfits in advance – no ‘just in case’s.

Planning your outfits in advance can really help you streamline your vacation wardrobe and ensure you’re only bringing things you’ll actually wear. Plus, it will also help you look better during your trip.

Click here  to check out my minimalist travel packing lists for both Summer and Europe travel.

10. Always pack your absolute essentials and one outfit change in your carry on

Smartly packing for travel means preparing for the worst, so be sure to keep this luggage packing tip in mind!

While only 1% of bags tend to get lost , it will happen to even the best of us at some point… whether the bag is lost,, goes missing or uh, is accidentally taken by someone else in Paris (true story). That’s why it’s so important to have some essentials in your carry-on bag.

Having your essentials and extra clothes on you will bring precious peace of mind, so you’re never that angsty person waiting in fetal position at baggage claim.

11. Keep Some Extra Clothes In Your Travel Buddy’s Suitcase

Another little contingency plan in case your suitcase goes missing is to (if you’re travelling with someone else) make sure to pack some extra outfits in your travel buddy’s bag and vice versa.

This way, if either of you loses your bag, you’ll at least have some backup items. In the crazy off chance that BOTH your bags go missing, well my friends, I’m sorry!

12. Bring a few extra bags (e.g. totes, ziplocks, etc.)

You never know when you’ll need them, especially for things like dirty clothes, which are always an afterthought.

They weigh nothing and come in SO handy, so don’t forget a few!

And if you (like me) are working at reducing plastic usage while travelling , I recently discovered these re-usable silicon Ziploc bags (and mesh produce bags) that would definitely come in super handy for travel as well! Check out reviews and prices here.

 13. Bring A Bag For Dirty Laundry

On that note, even if you don’t bring a bunch of totes or extra bags, make sure at the very least to bring a closable bag for dirty laundry because you definitely want to keep that stuff separated.

… And a bag that zips up or seals is ideal because….. well, I’m sure you’ve smelled dirty laundry before.

14. Keep your liquids in a bag and separate them from your other goods

Many of you probably know this already, but just as a reminder, if you’re bringing any liquids in your carry-on bag, you’ll need to present them separately at airport security so they can be scanned.

One of my favourite carry-on packing tips is to get your own reusable toiletries bag instead of using the bags at the airport.

Since I almost always fly carry-on only, I’ve invested in  this awesome reusable clear toiletries bag  that’s TSA approved so I can easily store all my toiletries in it and just pop it out during security checks.

This is just way more durable and I don’t need to use those dinky plastic bags they provide. 

NOTE: 95% of the time, I’ve had no trouble with this, the only exceptions being random airports here and there mostly in Paris and London I think, but yes if you travel often, a bag like this is a total lifesaver.

If you haven’t yet invested in an excellent travel toiletries bag, I highly recommend you do so. They’re one of the best investments I’ve ever made for travel! You’ll never want to use a dinky single-use Ziplock ever again.

Looking for a durable and affordable toiletries bag for your upcoming travels? Check out my roundup of best toiletry bags you can buy online , or check out this summary table below:

15. Always wear your bulkiest items of clothing on the plane

*Puts on Captain Obvious cape*

Coats and boots are heavy. So, if you plan on bringing them on your trip (when packing for winter in Europe for instance), make sure you’re wearing them so they don’t hog up all the space (and weight) in your luggage.

This is an extreme example (that I do not recommend!!) but check out this hilarious coat that you can stuff all your luggage into.

[Also ideal for smuggling movie theatre snacks]

16. Forget full sized liquids, pack mini versions and buy if you need more

This is one of the top suitcase packing tips for travel I recommend to newbie travellers, and one of my all-time favouite packing hacks.

Seriously, put that full-sized bottle away! There’s zero reason for you to bring it.

There WILL be toiletries to buy where you’re travelling. It’s not worth the unnecessary weight to bring a giant bottle of everything (which I have seen many people do).

17. DIY Your Own Travel Size Toiletries

An additional tip building off the point above is to make your own travel size toiletries instead of buying them.

I still see a lot of people buying mini size toiletries from shops that cost like 1-2 bucks per bottle, but I don’t think this is really practical.

Those mini bottles are a huge waste of plastic and also you’re bound to those specific products, which isn’t great if you use very specific shampoos or cleansers like I do, so I really recommend buying reusable travel bottles like  these affordable silicon ones , which I love.

These are SO handy and SO cheap – definitely travel packing essentials I can’t live without.

With them, you can pack lighter, bring your favourite products with you and it’s a little bit better for the environment.

These leak-proof silicon bottles are perfect for this, and dirt cheap too, but I’ve summarized some other popular options in the table below.

Pssst, if you need a little extra help, read my full roundup of the best travel-size bottles you can buy online.

18. Use Plastic To Avoid Leaks

If you’re packing any liquids, sometimes you might find that they can leak in your bag, which is… obviously not great!

To prevent this from happening, I recommend covering the bottles with something before you cap them.

Now often this tip is given with the assumption that you’ll be using plastic wrap, but this effect can also be achieved if you have a million plastic shopping bags in your cupboard.

Just cut those up and use some little squares to cover instead.

19. Use tissue paper to avoid wrinkles

I haven’t tried this one myself, but many travellers swear by rolling their clothes with sheets of tissue paper, or putting sheets of tissue paper between folded shirts.

This apparently minimizes the friction/pressure, which then reduces wrinkles. Magic!

20. Plan to layer for warmth

Rather than bring chunky sweaters or puffy jackets, think about bringing many layerable items instead.

This is (in my opinion) the most effective way to pack for cold weather, and gives you more outfit choices too!

If you struggle with travelling light, you might also benefit from this guide on how to travel light.

21. Never pack things “just in case”

Let’s be real: more often than not, that case will not come up!

And if by some miracle, you’re in need of a special item, just take that opportunity to indulge in some shopping.

Learn from my mistake: I lugged around a raincoat for 6 weeks in Europe and used it maybe twice… the amount of space it took in my backpack was embarrassing!

And if letting go of the “just in case” mentality sounds impossible, you might benefit from my minimalist packing list/guide .

22. Pack The Heaviest Items On The Bottom Of Your Bag

This is a VERY underrated tip that a lot of people forget about, but when packing your suitcase, make sure to place your heaviest items at the bottom where the wheels are to avoid the suitcase randomly toppling over during your trip. 

Having heavy items on the bottom is the best way to pack a suitcase for stability.

…  The last thing you want is for your suitcase to be imbalanced!

23. Make Sure You Have A Unique Luggage Tag Or Mark Your Suitcase In A Unique Way

Honestly, you’d be shocked at how often people take the wrong stuff at baggage claim.

It happened to me once a few years back. I was travelling with a grey hard top suitcase topped with a cutesy pink tag.

I thought that was already unique, but sure enough, someone took it by accident thinking it was theirs! I only realized when I stood there like a doofus for an hour watching all the bags get taken and the last one left looked suspiciously like mine.

Don’t worry – I eventually got mine after shedding my body weight in tears and whimpering repeatedly.

SO, to avoid this ever happening to you, I suggest you make your suitcase obnoxiously unique… that way it’d be really difficult for someone to think it’s theirs.

Might I suggest this  hilarious sloth cover  urging you to follow your dreams?

24. Bring A Reusable Water Bottle

Most major European cities will have fountains all over where you can get delicious tap water for free and most major airlines are happy to serve you water in your own bottle as well, so that’s why it’s a great idea to take advantage of a reusable water bottle on your travels.

Sure, it may not be the most space-efficient thing to bring but it’s really handy to have, and better for the environment too : )

If you’re worried about bringing a water bottle that’s too bulky, there are a lot of great collapsible water bottles out there with amazing reviews  like this one.

25. Last but not least, don’t forget to leave a little extra space

A list of suitcase packing tips for travel wouldn’t be complete without this important (but often forgotten) gem of wisdom.

Here’s the thing: you’re human… You will inevitably buy something.

The worst feeling is falling in love with an item abroad and having zero space in your suitcase to bring it home.

Pro tip: I have some friends that bring an extra duffle that folds up small so that they have an extra bag for the way home (to hold all the shopping!)

And by ‘friends’, I mean my brother, who once came home from Japan with a suitcase full of Pikachu dolls. Still, a pretty cool packing hack!

More Travel Packing Hacks

Packing for vacation shouldn’t be stressful… and the more packing tips you know, the more prepared you’ll be.

So now let’s move onto some cool travel HACKS, AKA ingenious little tricks that you can use to make packing a little easier and more fun.

26. Pack A Pillow Case

We’ll start with a weird packing hack – pack a pillow case on your next trip!

Why? Well, they weigh nothing and are really multipurpose.

You can, for example, stuff one with clothes or a puffy jacket for a DIY travel pillow, or if you’re staying in a hostel it might be nice for hygiene reasons.

Honestly if you have no other use for it, consider it a dirty clothes bag.

27. Pack A Clothespin Or A Money Clip

Even if you don’t plan to do laundry or um… clip money on your trip, these are great for making a DIY toothbrush stand so you can make sure your toothbrush doesn’t touch the counter or anything gross.

All you need to do is clip it onto the middle of the toothbrush to create a nice little perch for your toothbrush.

28. Use A Tic Tac Case To Store Your Bobby Pins

Bobby pins… you buy them in the hundreds and yet somehow lose them all.

Does this sound like you?

Honestly, bobby pins things go missing ALL the time so it’s really handy to keep them all in one spot, and a Tic Tac case is the perfect size for this purpose.

29. Use A Carabiner For Your Hair Ties

In a similar way, you can use a carabiner to keep tabs on all your hair ties, which means no more digging around in the darkest depths of your bag for one, or keeping one on your wrist at all times. Yay!

30. Store Q-Tips In Old Pill Bottles

If you have any old pill bottles lying around, they’re actually the perfect size for storing Q-Tips, so if you’re big into keeping your ears clean while abroad, be sure to start hoarding those pill bottles ; )

31. String Necklaces Through A Straw To Keep Them From Tangling

This is a really easy thing to do if your necklaces get tangled often – mine personally hold up fine usually so I just keep them in a pouch but if you want an easy way to make sure they don’t get tangled, thread your necklace through a straw and then hook it around.

This way, your necklaces stay in one untangled bundle.

32. Use A Shower Cap To Store Your Shoes

Obviously this is a shower cap you will not be using, but wrapping a shower cap around your shoes is great for keeping your dirty muddy shoes away from the rest of your belongings.

Alternatively, those big zipper plastic bags that bedsheets come in are also great for the same purpose.

33. Stuff Your Shoe With Small Items To Save Space

Ahh yes, efficient packing tips – my favourite!

If you’re really looking to maximize space in your suitcase, consider stuffing your shoes with small items like socks and underwear. You’ll be shocked at how much you can actually cram in there.

NOTE: Just be sure, especially with underwear, to put them in a protective bag first because putting them in your shoes as-is sounds like infection city.

34. Invest In A Universal Adapter

If there’s one travel tool you need in your arsenal (besides my precious packing cubes of course), it’s a universal adapter, especially one with multiple slots for USB chargers too so you can charge multiple devices without a bulky power bar.

This one is great! 

Why should you get a universal adapter?

Well, you can reuse it on every single one of your trips, and even if you’re JUST visiting Europe, there are certain countries that use a different outlet (e.g. the UK, Ireland and Malta), so better safe than sorry. Trust me, the ease of mind is priceless.

35. Bring An Oven Mitt

This is one of my favorite travel packing tips and tricks because it’s so random.

But it’s also super helpful.

If you travel with any heat appliances like I do (e.g. a hair straightener, curler, etc.) then bringing an oven mitt is a genius way to make sure you always have a heatproof surface to rest it on and also a safe place to store it when you need to pack up quickly in the morning.

I have a terrible habit of just tossing my hair straightener on top of my stuff when I travel, which terrifies my boyfriend because… well, nobody likes fires…. but now that I wrap my stuff in an oven mitt, he can breathe a little easier, and we fight a lot less ; )

36. Pack Dryer Sheets To Avoid “Weird Clothes Smell”

If you’ve travelled any time in your life, I’m sure you’re familiar with that “weird clothes smell” that can quickly permeate your suitcase.

Well, packing a dryer sheet or two in your bag will keep that stench at bay! Not only are they very light, they’ll keep your luggage smelling freshy fresh.

Need a recommendation? These ones smell like lavender and are both vegan and cruelty-free.

37. Bring A Frozen Waterbottle Or Frozen Sponge To Keep Your Snacks Cool

Now I’m sure you know you’re not typically allowed any liquids over 100mL on a plane…

But if you want to bring your own drink on board and avoid the $10 airport waters, or if you just want to keep your snacks nice and cool, consider bringing a frozen water bottle as a DIY ice pack and a refreshing drink after you pass security…

Or if you just want an ice pack, a frozen sponge will do the trick.

BONUS: Don’t forget to pack pens!

And okay, here’s a final bonus tip for you, not exactly a hack but something that’s SUPER important and most people forget… Make sure you have a pen in EVERY BAG.

You never know when you need a pen, especially if you need to fill out any customs paperwork, and honestly the little station they sometimes have is like the Hunger Games of pens.

One time I landed at London Stanstead and they didn’t even have ANY pens available, so I had to awkwardly ask a staff person to borrow theirs and it was just… really weird.

#TeamPenForLife

Did I miss any of your favourite suitcase packing tips?

So there you go, years of packing wisdom squished into a single blog post. I hope you found this free packing guide helpful and valuable and if you have any more travel tips for packing you think I should add, Let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

37 thoughts on “30+ Essential Suitcase Packing Tips & Hacks That You Need to Copy ASAP”

I’m always on the edge about rolling my clothes versus folding them. Right now, I’m still folding them. No matter whatever I hear about the advantages of rolling, I can’t seem to even try to convert!

… and I also have a very, very bad habit of packing things “just in case”, such as extra outfits. Umm… gotta look perfect for my pictures I guess, and have extra changing options. Ha ha.

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

haha why does it worry you? Try it once with packing cubes! Your life will be changed 😉

Great advice! I’m a BIG fan of packing cubes… I can’t believe I had never heard of them until a few years ago. Never have tried the tissue paper method. Will definitely have to, especially on business trips. I also recommend shoe bags as a way to keep organized and clean. Plastic bags are a great alternative but they often leak or get dirty too quickly.

Hey Tam, ahh awesome thanks so much for the link 🙂 <3 And oooh yes shoe bags I love as well! I just got a new packing cube set that came with laundry/shoe bags and I'm in Type A heaven hahah.

Nice Post Christina. I like you tips. Keep blogging

thanks for reading, Julian 🙂

Well I am impressed with these tips always helped a lot

Happy to hear that, Jimmy!

Main thing that i have to add in this list is How do you usually organise all of your electronics, cables, those fiddly bits that take you ages to dig out at security? Stuff them in like the rest of us? Well, if you want to organise your packing then get yourself a stash of ziplock bags. Phone charger, camera charger, adaptors, headphones – take extra plastic bags (the same ones you’d use for hand luggage liquids) and use them to store electrical items, things for the journey home (house keys, parking ticket and car keys), medication and other loose accessories..

well thanks to my packers team a they have did a very well job here

That’s quite an interesting article Christina, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveler, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Happy to provide you with any tips to make the experience less stressful! Safe travels, Gloria 🙂

I like how you suggested starting a luggage packing list. I am going on vacation and want to be able to store my luggage properly. Thanks for the tips on suitcase packing tips.

Great article, I believe packing is the most important factor one should keep in mind while traveling, and then comes means of transport which helps to reach your destination on time.

Only buy travel size toiletries once. Refill those small bottles from your large ones at home…or reuse some of those small complimentary ones from the hotel.

Packing is really stressful work. Most of the people are confused about how to the packing. Your blog is very helpful for packing. I also use your tips for packing because your tips are very easy and nice. I like your blog. Thanks!

I have made some packing but after reading this I wondered I havent done anything and so many things to get packed 😀 😀 Thanks for sharing this post <3

Hey, Read your Blog and found these tricks very useful especially that extra bag point because it is very useful and some of us often forgot it.

Rolling clothes is one of my favourite things to do. I find it easier to locate what I need if I’m living out of a suitcase and it stops the clothes creasing too – bonus!

Another article of yours that I have enjoyed. Agree with all of the above & will finally try the dryer sheets next time I’m away. Keep seeing it but have never taken the leap (it might be a boy thing!). Cheers! – Nigel

Really smart ideas and tips especially the Bring dryer sheets to avoid “weird clothes smell” cause everything that we go on a trip my dress has unnecessary odor.

It’s, in reality, a nice and useful piece of information about packing tips.

Great tips, really helpful.

Wow! Amazing tips, really it works & helpful during travel

This is all so true! Thanks for such a wonderful article, it’s quite interesting in reading about the packing tips and hacks.!!

I truly loved reading the blog above; you have explained everything in-depth about relocation. Surely I’ll share the suggestions & guide with clients. Thank you for such a fantastic post, and please keep it up.

Great written and come with approximately all important infos

Love your tips! I have two for having more room for items I purchase. The first is that I place a carry on suitcase inside a larger suitcase for some travel. I live in Europe but travel back to the US and stock up or bring things I already own back to the UK. You need to check with your airline about how many bags you can have though. Nowadays I have to pay a lot for the extra suitcase but it can be worth it. The second is one I did more when I was younger. I would pack a certain amount of times I was willing to part with. Old underwear and socks would go in the bin for the last few days. And I would donate clothes to charity in order to fit souvenirs in.

Very informative blog, thanks for sharing with us

Hey Christina, Nice Post, Thanks for this informative article. I’m a businessman And have to travel so, Its really helpful for me.

Very nice, love it.

I think it would be hilarious if you started a trend where everyone takes your advice, and soon there will be many sloth suitcases showing up at airport baggage claims across the world. I can only hope. I am off to purchase mine right now.

Seriously though, thanks for all of these travel tips. I love the website, and your humor (sorry, I am American so I spell it differently).

I have learned a lot things from your articles, and I am excited for my first-ever trip to Oktoberfest this year. Prost!

You have shared so many awesome tips! I would not have thought about q tips in a little tub or using a straw for necklaces. Genius packing tips

Good tips! I’m definitely a “just in case” packer and need to re-think that. Ireland is one of those countries that insist on ziplock bags only for your liquids. Also, I keep one of those wrapped hotel mini soaps in my suitcase – keeps it smelling nice for a long time – even after you get home and store your bag away.

Awesome! This article is very informative and very good. Thanks for sharing this with us. Keep sharing.

This is a truly helpful and practical piece of information regarding tips for packing.

Very helpful, thanks for the share.

Very helpful, keep sharing the good stuff.

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Budget Travel Packing Essentials That Won’t Break the Bank

Backpacking , Backpacking Checklist , LUGGAGE

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When planning a frugal-minded trip, you are likely willing to sacrifice conveniences such as hotel rooms for hostels and guesthouses, nice restaurants for local food stalls, and easy flights for overnight bus journeys. This can also mean changing up how you pack. Check out our budget travel packing essentials to prepare yourself and get the most out a low-cost adventure! 

Budget Travel Packing Essentials

Table of contents.

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes or Non-Plastic Organizers

Ziplock bags may be convenient for travelers staying at hotels, but there’s no faster way to ruin your budding new friendships in a hostel dorm than with the crunching of plastic bags while your dorm mates try to sleep. Don’t be “that person” and stick to packing cubes or compression sacks to organize your belongings.

Use a packing cube set if you have a top loading backpack or you may prefer a compression sack like this one: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Sack . Alternatively, use this portable closet to hang your stuff on your dorm bed and have easy access to everything you need!

Compass Rose Packing Cubes available at Amazon !

Watch this packing video —it will change the way you travel!

Compass Rose Travel Adapter

Multi-Purpose Travel Adapter

Purchase an international adapter that works around the world to take care of your electronics. Choose a travel adapter that also acts as a converter and has a surge protector to avoid blowing a fuse in your valuable electronics.

If you’re only traveling to one destination, it’s also possible to choose individual adapters so you don’t have to lug around a bulkier one. Although, the fact that this also acts as a surge protector is worth the effort. I use this basic one that can be used worldwide.

Compass Rose Travel Adapter available at Amazon !

Learn about the pros and cons of a voltage converter vs. travel adapter option!

indreamy Travel Sheet

Cozy Sleeping Liner

Believe it or not, some hostels don’t offer blankets unless you want to pay extra and some budget rooms may offer sheets that look a bit… dirty. Avoid these issues by carrying your own sleeping sheet , it’s lighter than a sleeping bag and can be used with both warm and cold climates. 

As a bonus, since sleeping bag liners enclose your feet and your entire body, pesky mosquitoes can’t bite your toes while you sleep. Avoid cotton because it’s heavy and bulky, choose cool microfiber fabrics or the optimal material we love: silk.

Indreamy Travel Sheet available at Amazon !

We have rounded up some TFG favorites for the best travel sheets !

Sea to Summit Drylite Towel

Essential Travel Towel

Do not expect to be given a towel in budget digs. While it does happen, it’s not very often. A travel towel is better than carrying a regular towel because it packs small, is lightweight, super absorbent, and dries quickly, which is key when you’re on the go (see dry bag below). Please note that sizes are very small, so a large to xlarge should be standard even if you’re petite.

Sea to Summit DryLite Towel available at Amazon !

Find out what’s the best travel towel for you to take on your next trip!

Sea to Summit Lite Line Clothesline

Save Pennies With a Laundry Line

As a budget traveler, you probably want to save some money by washing your own clothes. You could use a piece of reusable string, unwaxed dental floss, or something more durable such as this travel laundry line but save yourself some trouble by packing this small item. Also, make this task easier by choosing the right travel clothing. Learn more in my guide ! 

Sea to Summit Lite Line Clothesline available at Amazon !

Read these tips for traveling with dirty laundry !  

Itzy Ritzy Sealed Wet Bag

Super, Versatile Dry Bag

A dry bag can be used to store wet clothing when you’re on the go. Imagine if you have an early bus to catch to your next destination, but you only had time for a quick shower before breakfast not leaving you any time for your towel to dry. 

Avoid hanging it over your dusty backpack and pack it in a waterproof bag that can also be used to hold other wet items such as, a bikini. It can also be used to store and protect electronics from a sudden downpour.

Itzy Ritzy “Travel Happens” Sealed Wet Bag available at Amazon !

Learn how to  hand wash clothing while traveling!

Light my Fire Titanium Spork

A Spork for the Budget Foodie

When you’re sampling local treats from the street and market stalls don’t always expect to be handed a fork to go with your food. Play it smart and pack a spork that you can use during these instances, as well as if you want to buy food from a grocery store or shop. If you’re eating preferences include only eating at restaurants skip this item.

Light my Fire Titanium Spork available at Amazon !

Take a look at these travel necessities and add a few of them to your packing list!

Petzl – TIKKINA Headlamp

Budget Travel Head Torch

Why is a head torch better than a regular flashlight? Because it leaves your hands free to eat your meal, use at night while camping, go about your business in a blackout, or walk late at night hands-free.

Petzl E91 Tikkina 2 available at Amazon !

Here’s the list of the best travel flashlight for your next adventure!

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

The Ultimate Budget Backpack

Budget travelers are always on the go and can spend much time exploring off the beaten path destinations which oftentimes means there is no path at all. Make it easy to carry your luggage over muddy trails, up ferry stairs, and over gaping holes in sidewalks by traveling with a backpack .

Looking for a travel backpack ? Check out my Farpoint Osprey 55 review . It’s my fave to take on my journeys, available here at Amazon !

Read this step by step guide on how to choose the best travel backpack !

Ipanema Neo Sense Thong Sandal 

Cheap n’ Cheerful Flip-Flops

It may seem that the majority of backpackers either wear trainers or flip-flops to match their laid back dress codes (but that varies on your personal style, of course). 

Fashion preferences aside, one of the main reasons a budget traveler would want to use flip-flops is in icky budget accommodation showers. Avoid foot fungi in hostel bathrooms and pack a pair of shower shoes.

iPanema Women’s Neo Sense Thong Sandal available at Amazon !

Check out our favorite travel shoes for women that double as a flip-flop and a cute sandal!

Travel Packing Essentials Comparison Chart

Can you think of any other budget travel essentials? Please share in the comments!

Check out these posts for more helpful tips on budget travel:

• Backpacking Checklist: Top 10 Hostel Travel Essentials
• How to pack for Europe’s Budget Airlines
• Packing Tips and Travel Clothing for Multi-season Trips
• Are you a Jetsetter on a Budget? Here are 15 Cheap Purses for Travel

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10 comments.

Such fantastic suggestions! I find the travel towel to be invaluable while I’m traveling. I also just got a set of silk travel sheets, a laundry line, and headlamp for Christmas, so I’m ready for my next adventure!

Sound like a perfect combination!

Love this! Very practical advice for travelers anywhere.

Thanks Jack!

Consider using a self-sealing “vacuum” bag such as space bag you can squeeze out the air to save space and keep it from leaking and you can also fill to with soap and water and squish it around to wash your clothes. The ones I use have a secure zipper and then you roll from the bottom to get the air out.

good tip! Thanks!

Interesting list, i couldn’t agree more. I’d add a swiss-army knife. They aren’t super cheap, but unbelievably useful.

Swiss Army knives can’t be in carry-on luggage can they?

Nope, they have knives so you should check this item or skip it if you travel carry-on

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80 Packing Tips For International Travel

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Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming. You want to prepare for every possible situation but at the same time, you have to make sure that you don’t overpack. No one wants to pay for those fees! Let’s take a look at the best tips and tricks to make sure that you’re sufficiently packed and prepared to enjoy your trip.

Rather watch a video? I shared the 10 most essential packing tips below for those who don’t want to read the full article.

International Travel Documents

1. Before packing your passport , make sure that the expiry date is longer than six months. Some countries won’t let you in if the expiry date is too short. For your specific destination, read their laws for traveler’s passport requirements.

2. Be sure to pack a traveling visa if needed. Some countries require a traveling visa before entry and usually have a deadline for how long you can stay. If you’re a European Union citizen, things are easier for you if you’re traveling to Europe.

3. If traveling with children, get a child travel consent. If a child under 18 is traveling with only one parent, written permission from the other parent will be needed.

Read Next: What to Put in Carry-on and What in Checked Luggage (Guide)

4. Print a copy of your travel insurance. If you don’t have one, I highly recommend that you get one, as it’s usually really cheap and protects against medical costs, theft, flight delays, and more.

5. Pack all of your travel documents in a separate bag or a folder and always carry them with you. Never put your documents in your checked bag and always keep an eye on them. Also, it’s better to take pictures of them and email a copy to yourself in case they get lost.

6. Print out a copy of your boarding pass. It will work as a backup if your phone battery dies.

7. Don’t forget other documents: Train, bus, ferry, or plane tickets, hotel reservations, tickets for attractions and museums, a piece of paper with emergency contacts, guides and maps, and local tourist cards.

Read Next: You Bought Airline Tickets Online. Now What? (Guide)

Electronics

8. Don’t forget to bring your camera, smartphone, laptop , e-reader , headphones, and a tablet (if you plan on using them.) I usually leave the camera and tablet, as my smartphone and laptop can easily substitute both.

9. Bring dual-voltage chargers for all of your devices.  If you’re located in America and traveling to Europe, make sure that all of your chargers are dual-voltage. That’s because the USA uses 110v electricity, but Europe uses 220v. If you don’t have an adequate charger, you will ruin your device. Something like this will be written on your charger: “100v-240v.”

10. Never pack electronics in your checked luggage. Use your hand luggage or carry-on instead. Otherwise, they might get stolen or damaged, and airlines usually don’t reimburse for valuables, such as electronics.

11. Always charge your electronics before boarding. Sometimes the airline security will require you to turn on your devices. Some airlines don’t allow carrying devices that you aren’t able to turn on. If you’ve forgotten your chargers, this could potentially turn into a bad situation. Also, make sure to turn Airplane mode on before setting off.

12. Get a power adapter. In Europe alone, there are three different kinds of power adapters. You should research what kind of plugs that your destination country has and purchase accordingly. There are some universal ones as well which would be a good investment to make if you plan on traveling internationally often.

13. Pack your power bank. A power bank is a must-have, especially for international flights . Most of your gadgets won’t last twelve or more hours while you’re watching movies and tv-series, so make sure to charge them fully before boarding.

Toiletries and Medication

14. Pack liquids over 3.4 oz in your checked suitcase. In your carry-on, you can pack liquids that are in 3.4 oz bottles , and all of the bottles combined have to fit in a TSA-approved transparent bag (usually around ten small bottles.) If you plan on packing something larger, you will have to check it in.

15. If you’re staying at a hotel, leave your shampoo and shower gel at home. Most hotels have these included in your bathroom, free of charge.

16. You’re safe to pack your medication. TSA states that all medicine is allowed both in hand luggage and checked bags. I’d pack it in my hand luggage though, in case I might urgently need some of it. Also, if the medication is in liquid form and over 3.4 ounces, but in reasonable quantities, it’s allowed on the flight. Note that the medicine needs to be in its original packaging.

17. Some medication that you might forget: Something for allergies, motion sickness tablets, asthma medicine, painkillers, cream for sunburns, bandages, digital thermometer, diarrhea medicine, cough drops, insect repellant, antacids, sleep aids, and eye drops.

18. Some toiletries that you might forget: Toothbrush, mouthwash, dental floss, toothpaste , deodorant, shampoo, and shower gel (if traveling to a hotel, leave them home), sunscreen, face wash, q-tips, make-up, contacts, make-up remover wipes, shaving cream, shavers , hair-gel or hairspray, perfume , and dry shampoo.

Read Next: Will Shaving Cream & Other Aerosols Explode on a Plane?

19. If you need prescription medicine, don’t forget to bring the prescription with you. Some countries accept prescriptions from other countries, So bring it along just in case you run out.

20. Pack your medicine in a separate, ready-to-go pouch. You never know when you’re going to need it, so it’s better to be able to find anything quickly, rather than re-sorting your entire suitcase.

21. Between two similar options, always choose the lightest. For instance, I never take my big, comfy, black hoodie. Instead, I take a thinner one, which is just as warm but takes up less space. The same goes for boots vs shoes.

22. For longer trips, bring less and wash everything mid-way. Usually, larger hotels have the option to do the laundry for you, which is perfect for two to four-week trips. Even if they don’t, ask around, and they’ll usually tell you where is the nearest place to do laundry. Alternatively, underwear and socks can be easily washed in the sink with regular soap. Just make sure to do this with enough time to hang them to dry!

23. Dress in layers. If you’re traveling to colder climates, an excellent way to save space is to dress in layers. Rather than taking large jackets and hoodies, take several thin shirts.

24. Wear the bulkiest clothes and shoes on your flight. By doing this, you will save some space in your suitcase. You can take something off once you board the flight. (I like to take my shoes off when I fly. (Sorry, if you ever sit next to me!)

25. Choose a color scheme. Basically, you should be able to combine any two pieces of clothing to make an outfit. Avoid packing outfits for every day that don’t go together separately. This way, you can wear your jeans for several days while changing your t-shirts and underwear every day.

26. For your flight days, you can pack a single outfit. For instance, if you’ve gone for seven days, pack for six days, because you’ll be wearing the same thing on your first and last day. Do you care that much how you’re looking on the plane? I always go with comfort over fashion.

27. Research the fashion culture in your destination. For instance, if you’re a woman, you don’t want to wear something that reveals lots of skin in Arabic countries. In Europe, people tend to dress a bit more formally than in America. So, pack accordingly.

28. Underwear and socks. I recommend packing a pair for every day. For longer trips, bring only half and wash everything mid-way through your trip.

29. Jeans, pants, and shorts. Personally, for a two-week trip, I would bring a pair of jeans and two pairs of shorts. I pick one that’s more casual and another that’s for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback writing, etc.

30. T-shirts. If you roll them, they don’t take up that much space, so I take one for every day. (Although, you could take one for every two days.)

31. Hoodies, shirts, jackets. If I’m traveling to warmer climates, I usually skip the bulkier jackets. A single hoodie and a thin shirt are enough. For colder places, I’d pack one for every three days. Don’t bring more than one jacket, as they take up a lot of space.

32. Dresses. I feel that dresses are perfect for traveling, as they take up so little space. Just don’t go overboard and remember to pack a pair of jeans as well for activities and hikes.

33. Suits and formal clothing. If traveling for business, suits and formal clothing are a must. Don’t forget to bring a pair of high heels or formal shoes, ties, a suit or a dress, and other accessories.

34. Sporting gear. I like to continue my exercise routines while traveling so I bring a pair of running sneakers, shorts, and a t-shirt. If you’re active, don’t forget to pack your sports gear if you want to go to the gym or go for a run.

35. Shoes and boots. I usually bring no more than three pairs of shoes : A pair of running sneakers, casual shoes, and flip-flops or boots (depending on the weather.) Shoes take a lot of space, so think twice about bringing extra pairs.

36. Accessories that you could forget packing: Hats, scarves, swimsuits, towels, gloves, belts, pajamas, and jewelry. All are totally dependant on where you go, so it’s up to you to decide if you need them.

Additional tip #1: Ever had bed bugs in your luggage while staying in a cheap hotel? Check out our guide on getting bed bugs out of luggage , and how to prevent them in the future.

Miscellaneous Items That You Could Forget to Pack

37. Take food and snacks. If you’re flying a short flight with no lunches, you should get some snacks to save some money. You’re allowed to 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 oz in your hand luggage. This includes sauces, creams, and other liquids. However, checked luggage is totally fine. Also, you should be careful with packing organic food and dairies, as some countries won’t allow you to enter with specific foods.

Read Next: Can You Bring Chef’s Gas Torches on a Plane?

38. Always take an empty bag for your dirty clothes. If you start mixing your dirty clothes with your clean ones, pretty soon your clean clothes will start smelling. I’d recommend packing a special laundry bag or a plastic bag. Tote bags aren’t that good because they let air through the fabric because plastic doesn’t.

39. Pack a few zip-locks, plastics bags, and a tote bag. They don’t take up much space, and you never know when you are going to need them. I usually take a piece of bubble wrap as well if I’ll be bringing home some bottles of wine.

40. If you have a luggage scale, take it. If you don’t,  get one . It’s handy for your return flights, especially if you’re visiting several countries. With it, you will be easily able to weigh your suitcase and tell if you can buy any more snacks and souvenirs for your return flight. It costs just a few dollars and takes up very little space.

41. Other items that you could forget: umbrella , sunglasses, regular glasses and a case, tweezers or a pocket knife, hand sanitizer, paper/pen, a fork, and a spoon, a cup, and a plate, cash, keys.

Preparing for a Long International Flight

42. Download e-books, movies, and tv series before your trip. The flight will be long, usually twelve hours or more. To keep yourself entertained, make sure to download everything in advance. Time will go by faster! (I tend to write/sleep the entire flight.)

43. Pack everything for a comfortable trip. Do you think that sitting in a seat for ten hours will be comfortable? Well, think again, because you’re likely to feel stiff and exhausted after your flight. If you have the room, pack a pair of trainers, a hoodie, soft socks, a sleeping pillow, and a face mask for comfortable sleeping.

44. Pack things that will help you with having more privacy on your flight. You never know who you will be sitting next to. You could be sitting next to someone who wants to talk throughout the flight or is watching movies on a bright screen. Prepare in advance by packing noise-canceling headphones or earplugs and a face mask.

45. To freshen up, pack some wet wipes and hand cream in your carry-on. Although this is optional, cleaning your hands and face with wet wipes will make you feel much fresher. The dry air and pressure changes can make you feel like you haven’t showered for several days.

46. Wear glasses instead of contacts. I’m not sure why, but flying with contacts for longer than one or two hours is nearly impossible. It probably has something to do with the pressure changes and dryness. So pack your contacts in your baggage and wear your glasses instead.

Before You Start Packing Your Suitcase

47. Before you start packing, make a list of all your items. This will help you to avoid forgetting something. Some apps help you with creating a packing list. Check out this handy printout PDF!

48. Lay all of your items on the floor or the bed. Reading a list can be one thing, but looking at all of your items in front of you will help you to see how tightly you should be packing. Re-check if you have everything that’s on the list.

49. Determine the weight and size restrictions for your flight. For international flights, you will usually find that the carry-on limits are tighter, so be sure to read up on the airlines’ website and measure your luggage . Here are the most common airline restrictions .

50. Choose the appropriate luggage . If I fly with a checked suitcase, I usually take a backpack and a large suitcase. Make sure that everything is within the size limits. Also, I would recommend taking luggage with spinner wheels if you have to walk long distances.

Editor’s tip : If you’re looking for a new carry-on, we’ve found that the Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the best choice. We’ve compared the most popular luggage brands , and we’re most impressed by Travelpro. It got 90 out of 100 points on our rating scale.

51. If you have an old suitcase, give it a good clean. I recently tried restoring my old suitcase and was pretty successful with it. With proper techniques, you can make your old bag look brand new .

Tips on Packing Your Suitcase

52. Pack these items in your carry-on: Documents, electronics, clothes for one or two days (in case your checked luggage gets lost), chargers, toiletries, and medicine.

53. Pack these items in your checked suitcase: Extra pairs of shoes, all of your other clothing, liquids over 3.4 oz, knives, and other things that are not allowed on the flight.

54. Start by packing your documents. Put all of your documents and printouts in a folder and stash them in an easily accessible place. A good choice would be your carry-on, backpack, or duffel bag, depending on your choice of hand luggage.

55. Utilize packing cubes. They’re a great way to organize your items and save a little bit of space. I usually divide the cubes by their contents. For instance, one is for electronics, another is for chargers and smaller items, and one is for bulkier clothing, etc.

56. Before you start packing, roll, and fold your clothes. For easier packing, I always roll my t-shirts, pants, jeans, shorts, and underwear. This saves a lot of space and usually, the items don’t get that wrinkled (if you do it correctly.) Other than rolling, I fold my shirts and other things that need to be wrinkle-free. If you’re using packing cubes, fold them in the exact size of the largest cube, which will help when you’re packing it.

57. Fill your shoes with socks and underwear. Not only does this save space, but your shoes won’t get squashed after unpacking.

58. If you’re using packing cubes, pack them full. This results in fewer wrinkles on your clothes. Also, pack in a way that your items are easy to pull out. (Rolled pieces help a lot!)

59. If packing without cubes, start packing with shoes and larger items. Ideally, you want to place your shoes and heavier items down at the bottom of the case, because this will result in a better-balanced suitcase. (It’s less likely to tip over!)

60. Fill the gaps with smaller items. When you’ve finished with the larger things like shoes, jackets, jeans, hoodies, and the toiletry bag, fill the gaps with socks, underwear, and t-shirts.

61. If using a carry-on and suitcase, never pack valuables in your checked suitcase. Items packed in your checked luggage could get lost or stolen, and most of the time, airlines don’t cover electronics, valuables, fragile items, and jewelry. If you have no other choice, purchase separate travel insurance for the contents of your checked bag.

62. Pack fragile items and liquids carefully. Here’s a full guide on packing fragile items in luggage .

63. If you’re bringing a knife, follow the TSA rules. You can’t put knives in your carry-on . Instead, you should pack it in your suitcase.

64. Leave some room for the return items. Are your friends, colleagues, and family are already wondering what snacks or souvenirs they will be getting from you when you get back from your trip? Make sure that you leave some space for your return items and souvenirs. I’d say that an extra two to five pounds is enough.

65. Make sure to use the straps in your suitcase to tighten your contents. I’m amazed at how many people aren’t doing this, especially if they’re not using packing cubes. If you tighten them, your clothes won’t be all over the suitcase, and you will have fewer wrinkles because there will be less movement.

66. Weigh your bag and make sure that it’s close to the weight limit. Most of the time, the airline staff will let you pass with a few extra pounds. However, sometimes they will not, so to be safe, you should always follow the weight limit.

After You’ve Packed Your Suitcase

67. Make your suitcase easily visible. Adding some stickers, luggage straps, or other colorful elements will do two things to help you while traveling. First, your suitcase will be easily identifiable on the conveyor belt. Second, if your luggage gets lost , you can better describe your suitcase to the airline staff, which will increase the chances of them finding it. If you bring two or more suitcases, it’s also a good idea to hook them together .

68. Re-check if your documents and valuables are packed in your carry-on. Checked suitcases can easily be stolen or lost. You don’t want to lose your documents while abroad.

69. Consider purchasing insurance for your checked suitcase. Airlines reimburse only small amounts for lost suitcases, as they value everything as used. (Even if it’s brand new.)

70. If you’re above the weight limit, start by removing clothes. 80% of your suitcase is easily taken up by clothes. Most of the time, you’re taking too much. Consider packing for a week and washing your clothes after seven days. Do you really need to bring those boots to Finland in the summer? Do you need that extra jacket just in case it gets cold in Italy? No, you don’t.

71. Add luggage tags to your suitcase. Using luggage tags dramatically increases the chances of your suitcase being found in case it gets lost. Write your e-mail address, the initial of your first name, and last name. (You don’t want everyone to see all of your information.)

72. When locking anything, use only TSA-approved locks . Some beginners might not know this, but everything that you lock in your luggage has to be locked with TSA-approved locks. Whether you’re locking the suitcase itself or a box of valuables inside, the TSA locks will allow the TSA agents easy access inside. Otherwise, they’re authorized to break the lock, and you could end up with a broken suitcase.

73. If you’re worried about your checked suitcase being damaged, use a luggage cover . This protective cover helps with keeping your suitcase look brand-new. In some third-world countries, luggage handlers can be really tough on your suitcase, so protecting it could be a smart move. A cheaper DIY temporary solution would be to cover it with a plastic film.

Money and credit cards

74. Don’t exchange money in money exchanges. You’ll probably need to pack some cash with you. Most of the time, the rate is the best when withdrawing through a well-known ATM at your destination. Airports and money exchanges will always have slightly worse rates. When you arrive, look for a well-known ATM (private ATMs often have higher fees) and withdraw from your ATM card.

75. Use your credit cards wisely to avoid extra fees. It’s not a packing tip, but I’ll include it anyway, as it’s essential. For withdrawing money, don’t use your credit card. Instead, you should use an ATM card. Only use your credit card for paying in another currency with your card, as the exchange rate fee is always smaller for credit cards. Also, when paying with your credit card, you will often be asked if you want to be charged in the local currency or US dollars. Always choose the local currency, as the rate will be better. So to sum up: Pay with your credit card in the local currency, and withdraw with your ATM card from well-known ATMs.

76. Notify your bank and credit cards that you will be traveling.  Your bank or credit cards can freeze your accounts if they notice strange transactions and that’s the last thing you need while you’re on a trip. Notifying them ahead of time will help you to avoid this issue because they will add a record to your account for the fraud detection system.

77. Educate yourself on local currency.  It can be incredibly difficult to tell the difference between different coins and bills if you’re not from that country. Learning about the currency where you’re headed can save you a lot of headaches and from possibly being swindled, too!

78. Consider getting a wallet or purse that you use specifically for travel. There are a lot of options out there for the safer storage of your personal items. You might want an RFID wallet  like this one on Amazon that insulates you from electronic pickpocketing. You can also invest in a waterproof, crossbody bag that will keep your items safe from the elements as well as make it harder for thieves to try to grab from you.

79. Consider using prepaid travel cards.  If you don’t want to bring along your debit or credit cards, consider using a prepaid travel card instead. You can load a specific amount of money onto the card before your trip, allowing you to lock in your exchange rate.

80. Hide your money.  Hide your money on your body by using a scarf with a hidden compartment, a leg money belt, a security belt with a hidden wallet, etc. If you’re planning on leaving money in your hotel room, you can easily hide your cash if you make a plan. You can tape it underneath drawers, stash it in food packets inside of your mini-fridge, or even inside of the couch cushions.

Final Words

Packing for your trip will be easier and less stressful if you prepare in advance. Using tips like those listed above will ensure that you’re ready. The most important thing to take away from reading this is how crucial it is to make sure your travel documents are safe. Keeping them in a folder in a place that you will remember and is easily accessible is of the utmost importance.

Something else that’s important to remember is that you need to pack only as many clothes as you will realistically need. Going over the weight limits will end in hefty fines. You might also want some space for souvenirs! Wearing layers onto your flight can also give you more space in your suitcase but make sure you will be comfortable as international flights are long and exhausting.

The best thing you can do is use an app or create an itinerary to keep track of your items. You don’t want to forget items like chargers, power blocks, medications, or other items necessary for your trip. Keep yourself organized and you will have a worry-free experience!

Read Next: 30 Things to Do Before Traveling Abroad

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One response to “80 Packing Tips For International Travel”

Oscar, your reflections on inner growth resonated with me. I too find solace in nature, especially during morning walks when the dew is still fresh. How do you cope when you can’t connect with nature? Isn’t it interesting how our surroundings influence us, and often mirror our internal state? I find urban environments, with their chaotic beauty, offer a completely different yet enriching perspective on personal development. Perhaps, we could explore this in a future discussion. My own experience in New York City was a turning point for me, the hustle and bustle pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a space of self-discovery. Keep the discussion flowing, Oscar, your insights are a breath of fresh air. 🌿🌆

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Best Way to Pack a Suitcase to Maximize Space – 25 Packing Tips

By Author Delilah

Posted on Last updated: November 18, 2022

Let’s face it, packing your suitcase is one of the least exciting things to do when you’re going on holiday. Not to mention how difficult it is to fit everything in, and how easy it is to unpack it all when you’re only grabbing out a t-shirt and shorts.

We’ll try to make it easier for you. We’ve flown thousands of miles and lived out of our bags for months at a time. 

In this extensive guide, we’ll share our best travel packing tips for how to pack a suitcase to maximize space that we always follow. These are tried and true recommendations we can’t live without.

Travel Packing Tips

There’s no single way to pack a suitcase, but following these travel packing tips will enable you to fit way more in your bags, reduce weight and have a more enjoyable trip overall.

1. Fold AND Roll Clothes to Save Space in Luggage

Rolling clothing to save space is the oldest trick in the book. Some still argue that folding takes up less space, but the general consensus is that rolling definitely helps. It might just come down to the fact that rolled clothing can be squeezed into smaller spaces and corners than folded clothes.

How to Roll Clothes for Packing

The best way to roll clothes for packing is to fold the garment into a rectangle first before tightly rolling it into a cylinder the width of your packing cube. This will ensure a snug fit, minimize wrinkles when packing clothes and keep things organized.

2. Use Packing Cubes

We used to think there was no need for packing cubes. We were so wrong! You’ll be surprised at how much you can squeeze into these cubes and you can easily separate out your t-shirts, pants, underwear etc. 

This makes it so much easier to find items rather than rummaging through your suitcase trying to find ‘that’ t-shirt. It also means keeping things organised and tidy.

We’ve travelled for up to 6-months at a time living out of our suitcase using a couple of sets of these affordable Bagail packing cubes from Amazon and they’ve been perfect.  They’ve lasted for years and the quality is top notch, especially for the price you pay.  

We recommend them to all our friends and family – they’re probably the best value packing cubes you can buy right now. Sure there are lighter and more durable options but the cost doesn’t

Buy It On Amazon

The next best alternative would be the Amazon Basics packing cubes which we found to be very similar and well constructed, however, slightly more expensive for what you get.

3. Use a Lightweight Suitcase

It’s easy to forget your suitcase takes up part of your weight allowance. The lighter your suitcase, the heavier the items you bring can be. When packing for air travel on budget airlines, you’ll need to be even more conscious of this due to strict weight limits.

Opt for a lightweight suitcase or even consider a large backpack (although we wouldn’t recommend a duffel bag). This is often preferred if moving from place to place every few days or if you’re travelling to somewhere remote with gravel roads where lugging around a wheely bag may get tricky and damage the wheels.

When choosing a suitcase, we recommend one that has 360 degree wheels and a hard outer case, as well as sticking to the best, most popular brands. American Tourister and Samsonite make the best rolling luggage available, whilst AmazonBasics is a great, lightweight and affordable option.

Best Suitcase: Samsonite Freeform

Best Budget Suitcase: Amazon Basics 21″ (honestly, this is perfect for most people)

Best Hard Luggage Set: Samsonite Winfield 2

Best Travel Pack: Osprey Farpoint 40 and Osprey Fairview 40 for individuals, Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 for couples

4. Create a Travel Packing List

Spend five minutes writing down all the items you need to bring, and this packing tip will save you so much time and stress in the long run. It’s so easy to forget the little things like a phone charger, pen or a hairbrush.

Creating a structured packing process is essential. Write everything down and tick the items off your travel packing checklist once you’ve packed them. You can even prepare multiple packing lists for various types of trips. For example, we have different packing lists for snow trips compared to beach holidays.

5. Pack Travel-Sized Toiletries

Liquids tend to be quite dense and heavy, so only packing what you need will free up both storage space and weight in your bag. It’s a great idea to pack toiletries after transferring the liquids into smaller bottles.

A pack of four bottles is enough to last one month of holidays for two people. We’d fill them with shampoo, body wash, conditioner and body moisturiser.

For trips longer than a month, we’d still carry these around. Many hotels and hostels provide you with a small bottle of shampoo and soap, so we’d save these and fill our bottles when required. 

There are heaps on Amazon to choose from and they’re super affordable and well worth the investment. These ones look awesome and are the perfect size (four 100ml bottles) – we’d buy them if we didn’t already have some!

Just remember the TSA liquid’s rule (many international governments also follow this rule) if you plan to bring them on your carry-on – don’t bring any greater than 100ml.

6. Leave Half the Clothing You’ve Packed at Home

I’ll admit, I’m guilty of overpacking every time, even for full-time travel with 40L of luggage space. One of our favourite travel packing tips is, once you’ve created a packing list, remove half of the clothing items on there. If you pack something as a ‘just in case’, you’re probably not going to use it.

7. Pack Travel-Sized Towels

I don’t mean to sound dramatic, but the Sea to Summit Drylite Travel Towel changed my life. It takes up a fraction of the space of a regular microfibre travel towel and folds down to the size of my hand!

Towels take up so much space in your bag, so opt for a travel towel. Make sure you pick one that absorbs water well and doesn’t smell after multiple uses.

The Sea to Summit towel often sells out, and although we’d recommend trying to find it, this one by Bagail looks to be the same material so should get the job done the same.

8. Utilise Unused Space When Packing a Suitcase

Shoes are the biggest culprits of unused space in your suitcase. Store socks in your shoes, or whatever else you can find that fits.

If you’re planning on bringing a collared shirt and a belt, roll the belt up to fit inside of the collar. It’ll help the collar to keep its shape while in transit and prevent wrinkles.

Pile all of your bras on top of each other, lining up the cups. Fold a bra in half down the middle, and store a few socks between the cups. Not only are you saving space, but it’ll also help the cups keep their shape.

9. Reduce Shoes in Your Luggage

Shoes are incredibly bulky items and can be awkward shapes to pack.

Limiting the number of shoes should be your first point of call to maximize suitcase space – they just take up too much room. All you really need is a comfortable pair of walking shoes and some sandals.

Ditch the heels. Especially if you’ll likely be out and about during the day, then go straight out to a restaurant and bar at night. Instead, choose a nice sandal you can wear all day and night.

Best Travel Shoes

There are two pairs of comfortable shoes I swear by for both holiday and everyday use. Birkenstocks (I have the Arizonas) and Adidas Ultraboosts (we have the men’s 4.0 and the women’s 22). They’re both unisex as well which is a bonus.

10. Pack Dryer Sheets For Dirty Laundry

Put dryer sheets in your dirty laundry bag to keep your clothing from smelling, especially if you’re unable to do your washing for a week or more. The sheets take up virtually no space in your checked luggage.

11. Pack Travel-Size Makeup in Your Suitcase

When travelling full-time I need to cut down my beauty products significantly, opting for a very lean kit allowing for more space in my checked bag.

Fortunately, a lot of brands offer their most popular products in smaller packaging that is convenient for travel.  Here are some of my favourites:

• Tarte Tarteist Mascara – A great mascara in a small size.
• Benefit Roller Liner – Thin and accurate eyeliner that is absolutely tiny.
• Benefit Lip and Cheek Stain – Benetint is my favourite colour for a light blush or tinted lips
• Tarte Tarteist Palette – Blush, bronzer & highlighter in one
• Mario Badescu Facial Spray – A refreshing, must-have facial spray for anyone travelling for long hours. 100% game changer.
• Sponge Blender – Switch out your foundation brush, concealer brush, setting brush, face brush and more. This is the ultimate travel makeup tool. 
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen – The only sunscreen we’ve found that feels like it isn’t there. It’s super thin and doesn’t leave your face greasy, plus the SPF is legit.

12. Use Zip Lock and Plastic Bags for Storage

You’ll never know when these will come in handy; whether you need a place to keep wet swimwear, dirty laundry or leaking toiletries a plastic bag always comes in handy.

13. Ditch the Umbrella or Bulky Raincoat

Umbrellas and big raincoats are bulky. Ditch these and buy a light, pocketable raincoat. Don’t be fooled by a jacket advertising ‘water resistance’ as this will only withstand showers. Instead, make sure you’ve got something waterproof.

For anyone looking for a cheap, lightweight AND waterproof rain jacket the Marmot Precip Rain Jacket for Women and for Men are undoubtedly the best value rain jackets you can buy.  At under $100 and under 300g nothing comes close.

We’ve found the brand Marmot to be great for waterproof raincoats. Even better, they’re pocketable so they take up barely any room and are convenient to carry around during the day. Great for both hot, humid weather and for colder weather, they’re easy to layer underneath.

14. Pack Two Full Outfits in Your Carry On Luggage for Air Travel

Fingers crossed your luggage doesn’t go missing, but if it does happen, you’ll be prepared. If you’ve got space, pack your bathing suit, another pair of shoes and plenty of underwear too. Be sure to pack all your chargers and tech equipment as well.

15. Pack an International Travel Adaptor

Travel adapters are bulky to pack, especially if you’re travelling to multiple countries with different power outlets.

Our Belkin one is our favourite as it has two USB ports to charge our phone and two powerpoints. We’ve found this Joomfeen Travel Adapter to be a lot more practical though. It’s smaller and has retractable pins which prevent any damage and makes it an easier shape to pack.

We recommend checking the voltage of your destination countries beforehand as this may affect the adapter you should buy.

16. Bring an Empty Water Bottle in Your Carry-On Bag

Once you’re through customs, buying water is incredibly overpriced. One of our favourite travel packing tips is to bring an empty water bottle that you can fill up before getting on the plane.

Hydroflask makes the best water bottles for travel. We love ours, they are extremely durable, packable and keep drinks warm or cold thanks to the insulation. The only issue is the weight, a tradeoff ultralight travellers may not wish to make.  

Our favourite is the wide-mouth Hydroflask with straw .  It’s the most convenient and keeps drinks warm/cold for hours.  

Some of the more sustainable travellers we’ve met have opted for the Grayl GeoPress which allows them to drink tap water anywhere in the world and filter it quickly in the bottle.

17. Consolidate Chargers With a GAN Charger

GAN chargers are a life changing innovation that now allow travellers to charge multiple, high-powered devices from one charger. 

Our favourite for most people is this Amazon Basics 2-Port GAN Charger . It offers two ports, one with enough power to charge your cellphone and another high-powered port for charging a laptop.

We have a lot of high-powered devices so we use this more powerful Anker GAN Charger which is an absolute beast.

18. Pack Shoes in Shower Caps

You never know what’s on the underside of your shoes so don’t let this touch your suitcase. Instead, place shoes in shower caps (these are sometimes provided in your hotel room) or simply opt for a plastic bag.

19. Choose Multi-Purpose Items

It is efficient to pack items that can serve multiple purposes, so you can cut back on what you have to bring. This will help free up extra space for other items and stay under your weight limit.

There will be an upfront cost if you don’t already own these items, but it’s totally worth it if you’re looking to maximise your baggage space and pack your suitcase efficiently.

Sarong: Great to wear to the beach, use a picnic blanket or for covering up when visiting a temple.  A lightweight sarong will get a lot of use on your trip.

Snap-lock bags: make your bag leak-proof from toiletries, keep small items from getting lost, store dirty laundry and store shoes to keep the soles off your clothes. You can even attempt to use them as compression cubes.

Paper clip: keep your travel documents together but also use it to get your sim card out of your phone.

Bulldog Clips: keep your travel documents together and use them to cover your razor and toothbrush.

Safety pins: these come in handy to mend clothing, attach wet laundry and remove a splinter. I use these to pin a secret pocket to the inside of my pants so I have money available in an emergency.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has so many uses. A moisturiser, lip balm, sunburn relief, leave-in hair conditioner, and even shaving cream. A little goes a long way so you won’t need to pack much at all.

20. Build a Travel First Aid Kit

This is probably the only item in your suitcase that you hope you’ll never have to use, but you should definitely have on hand.  I know I was glad when I injured myself on a hike in New Zealand !

We’ve built up our own first aid kit to ensure we only brought the absolute essentials. However, there are plenty of options you can buy online. 

This First Aid Only First Aid Kit is a great option for people looking for something they can buy once without needing to buy individual items. Just bear in mind, it may contain a few extra items that you may not need (you can always take them out)

To save money and maximise space in your bags, we’d recommend you make one up and only take what you need. Our kit doesn’t take up much room at about  7” x 5” x 3”.

This is what’s inside ours:

• Medications: Ibuprofen, paracetamol, imodium, sore throat lozenges, antihistamines and cold/flu tablets
• Antiseptic cream for cuts/grazes
• Antihistamine cream for mosquito bites
• Band-aids/plasters
• Alcohol swabs to clean wounds
• Oral rehydration sachets for dehydration or food poisoning
• Small pair of scissors
• Sewing equipment: Needle, thread, buttons and safety pins

We carry this in our daypacks daily for that ‘just-in-case’ moment. If you do the same, remember to remove the scissors, needle and safety pins from your carry-on luggage before flying.

21. Keep Like Items Together

When going through airport customs, the last thing you want to do is fish around your bag looking for all your liquids. Don’t be that person who holds up the line! Keep everything together in a ziplock bag and it’ll make life so much easier.

This also goes for things like cables, camera gear, toiletries etc. It just makes it easier when looking for something in your bags.

22. Reduce Weight by Wearing Bulky Items On The Plane

If you’re aiming to pack efficiently, try wearing your bulkiest items on the plane. This automatically frees up space in your suitcase.

My partner got a mid-thigh length duffle coat tailored in Vietnam. Wearing this home on the plane saved about ⅛ of our baggage space. Planes are always air-conditioned and it can get quite cold. You should always bring a jacket anyway, so wear your bulkiest one on the flight and you’ll save even more space.

This doesn’t just apply to coats and jackets. Think sunhats (which can also be awkward shapes to pack) and bulky boots.

23. Consider Clothing Material & Colours

This is an easy way to reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring, especially if you are packing for a long vacation. Packing neutral clothing makes it easier to match with and thus allowing for more outfit combinations. 

If you love wearing colour, consider packing colourful dresses that you’d wear by themselves, whilst sticking to neutral t-shirts and bottoms that you can mix and match easily.

It’s also a good idea to choose lightweight clothing materials to reduce weight in your suitcase.  Materials like merino wool and synthetic sports fabrics are super lightweight and great in hotter areas.

24. Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom of Your Suitcase

It’ll be easier to wheel around your suitcase if you pack the heavier items at the bottom. Pack toiletries and shoes at the bottom of your suitcase. If you have any lightweight or fragile items then it is a good idea to pack these securely at the top.

25. Dry Your Laundry on a Travel Line

Holidays longer than 10 days will usually require doing the laundry at some point.

Pegs take up a lot of room, whereas a piece of string on its own doesn’t cut it especially if you’re hanging clothes outside and don’t want anything to blow away or disappear.

This Sea to Summit clothesline is woven together tightly, allowing you to attach your laundry securely (just stick a corner or each clothing through the holes) without using pegs.  We find it better than the ones with suction cups (which end up falling off).

How to Pack a Suitcase

The best way to pack a suitcase is to use a combination of rolling clothes, packing cubes and lightweight travel items. These packing tips will enable you to maximize the space inside your suitcase allowing you to pack more for your trip.

How to Pack Clothes to Save Space in Your Bag

The best way to pack clothes is to use the fold and roll technique. Start by folding your garments into a rectangle, then roll them into a tight cylinder the width of your packing cubes.

In addition to this, aim to pack small and light-weight clothing in your bags– you should leave the bulky items at home. Here are a few tips for how to pack clothes to save space:

• Fold & roll clothes
• Narrow down your must-have clothes
• Only bring light-weight, small garments
• Pack clothing in packing cubes
• Bring clothes with multiple purposes

How to Pack Shoes

The best way to pack your shoes in a suitcase is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

An extra tip is to fill the shoes with small items of clothing such as socks. We also aim to compress the shoes as much as possible by pushing other items up against them.

How to Pack a Suitcase for a Flight

Packing a suitcase for a flight requires packing as densely as possible, without going above the airlines’ weight limits. Follow tips such as rolling, using packing cubes and packing small, lightweight items.

In addition to the tips on this list, we highly recommend researching your airline’s luggage requirements. Ensure your suitcase is within the physical dimensions allowed and the final weight of your luggage doesn’t exceed the limits.

Does Rolling Clothes Save Space?

Rolling your clothes when packing will save space inside your suitcase. Folding alone can help to keep things organized, but will cause air pockets making it difficult to fit as many garments in. 

How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase

The best way to pack shoes in a bag is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start packing by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

Should You Unpack or Live Out of Your Suitcase?

For shorter trips the time and effort of unpacking and repacking your bags typically doesn’t outweigh the organisational benefits of having your bags unpacked at your destination.

When you spend over a week in a destination you can start to see some of the benefits of unpacking your suitcase.  However, we would typically recommend following the packing tips above to keep your suitcase well organised.  This should make it easy to find what you need without unpacking.

If you do choose to unpack your bags, make sure to keep track of where you store your items as you run a higher risk of leaving something behind.

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Really this is a fabulous post for me to move first time with my essential material to my new destination.

Minimalist Travel: 20 Genius Tips for Normal People to Pack Light

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. That means that if you make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Read more here .

Are you looking to travel light and avoid the headache of packing and lugging around too much stuff? If so, this guide to minimalist travel is for you! From packing smart to choosing the right luggage, here are the best minimalist packing and travel tips to help make your trip a breeze.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next minimalist vacation today!

What does “minimalist travel” mean?

Minimalist travel means applying the principles of minimalism to your trip, packing light, and traveling with only the essentials. It can also mean being intentional with how you spend your time, money, and energy on your vacation.

Consider this the complete guide on how to pack like a minimalist, whether you’re a family who wants to pack minimally for your next trip or an extreme minimalist who wants to travel around the world with only a backpack!

After you read these minimalist packing tips, you’ll be able to decide how much to bring and what to leave off your list to pack less and have more fun.

The Best Minimalist Packing Tips

1. bring carry-on only.

This minimalist packing tip is number one for a reason. It’s the simplest way to travel lighter! By bringing only a carry-on bag, you have no choice but to downsize your list and pack minimally.

After all, you can’t bring everything when you’re limited to such a small space.

Not only do you avoid the extra fees for checked baggage, but it also helps ensure your luggage doesn’t get lost! Trying to find and get your stuff back would be a headache; if you don’t, it could cost you a pretty penny to replace everything.

Given that claims for stranded baggage have jumped as much as 30% since 2019, it’s a good idea to keep luggage close at hand to reduce the likelihood that it gets lost or mishandled.

2. Choose the right minimalist luggage

One of the most critical minimalist travel tips is to choose the right luggage. You want something durable, easy to carry, and lightweight – the lighter, the better!

Airline standards for carry-on are 21 inches or 55 cm max height but check with your airline before you fly to ensure you comply with their requirements.

Keeping these factors in mind, here are a few popular minimalist luggage options:

• Samsonite Base Boost Upright Hand Luggage (our luggage, in Black)
• Tortuga Travel Backpack
• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage (30+ colors)

3. Keep a minimal list

It can be tempting to over-pack when you’re going on a trip but resist the urge! One of the best minimalist travel tips is to make a packing list and then edit it until you’re only bringing the essentials.

Start by brainstorming everything you think you might need for your trip. Then, go through each item and ask yourself:  “Do I really need this?”  You’d be surprised how much you can eliminate from your list of things to pack when you get honest about what is and isn’t essential.

One of my favorite minimalist packing hacks is to use the Google Keep app to create my list.

I create separate lists for each family member and check them off as I pack. Make sure to keep the list instead of deleting it because you can repurpose the same list to make sure you don’t forget anything when you’re packing to go home!

4. Limit electronics

Electronics are often heavy, so limiting yourself to 1-2 devices can lighten the load. Luckily, for most people, a smartphone is all you need to perform most of your daily tasks.

However, if you are traveling for work, you might need to bring a lightweight laptop and charger. Likewise, a small camera, lens, and a few accessories might be on the must-bring list for serious photographers or videographers.

5. Travel adaptors

If you’re relying on your smartphone for communication and navigation, bring a travel adaptor to keep it charged. Make sure you choose the correct adaptor for the location you are traveling.

6. Minimize your toiletries

For shorter trips, you don’t need to bring an entire bottle of shampoo or body wash when a smaller amount will do. You can save a lot of luggage space by choosing travel-sized toiletries or decanting your liquids into smaller bottles.

The standard travel container size for liquids, gels, and aerosols is 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Place all of your liquid containers in a transparent and resealable plastic bag of up to 1 liter in size.

If your hotel or Airbnb includes these items or they can easily be purchased locally, then you might not need to bring any at all.

7. 2-in-1 or multipurpose soap

Bringing a small bar or bottle of multipurpose soap can save you a lot of space in your luggage by cutting down on how many toiletries you need to bring.

We used a drugstore 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash for our kids, but I have minimalist friends who swear by Dr. Bronner’s castile soap , which has up to 18 uses, including shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, dish soap, and more!

8. Go for simple matches and fabrics

If you already have a  minimalist wardrobe , then you know one of the best ways to reduce the total number of clothing items you own is to choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of different looks.

The same principle applies to packing for minimalist travel.

Choose clothing items made from simple fabrics that can be easily washed and opt for neutral colors that can be paired together so you can easily swap tops and bottoms.

Don’t forget to keep the climate in mind when making your choices. Cotton and linen are breathable and excellent for warmer temperatures, while wool and fleece can keep you warm in cooler weather. Synthetics are more resistant to wrinkles. 

Take all of these factors into consideration when you are packing!

9. Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane

Wearing your heaviest clothes on the plane will save you a lot of space in your suitcase. Bulky coats, heavy boots, and big hats can quickly eat up all the room in your luggage, so it’s best to put them on your body instead.

This minimalist travel habit has the added benefit of keeping you warm on the plane. Airlines keep cabin temperatures on the low side, which purportedly reduces the risk of passengers fainting, so you’ll be less likely to feel the chill.

10. Two pairs of shoes

When packing minimal for travel, it’s important to remember that you can usually get away with only bringing two pairs of shoes, at maximum.

One pair should be comfortable walking shoes, and the other should be more casual that can be dressed up or down.  Extreme minimalist  travelers can wear one pair of shoes while globetrotting for years, so two isn’t that big of a stretch!

Check out this extreme minimalist travel video – it’s unbelievable!

11. minimalist folding hacks

When trying to fit a lot into a small space, it’s essential to utilize every inch. Rather than lying items flat in your suitcase, try standing them up on their side.

This will help you make the most of the limited space and keep everything more organized; read the complete guide on  how to fold clothes vertically here .

You could also try “ranger rolling” your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.

Ranger rolling is a military folding technique that’s found its way into mainstream use because it’s so practical; it’s accomplished by folding clothes into thirds and then rolling them from bottom to top.

12. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a minimalist traveler’s best friend. By compartmentalizing everything in your suitcase, you can make the most of the space and keep your belongings organized. Not to mention, it makes unpacking a breeze.

This minimalist travel hack is a lifesaver if you’re a frequent traveler.

13. Dirty laundry bag hack

This is one of my favorite minimalist packing tips! Particularly if you travel with kids who are messy eaters like mine, it’s helpful to be able to keep soiled or stinky clothing apart from the rest.

In that case, bring a laundry bag like this one along with you. They are lightweight and fold up easily to store in your suitcase, taking up barely any space. When clothes get stinky or dirty, you can plop them in the bag to wash at your leisure and keep them separate from the clean clothes until it’s time to return.

We took one of the largest laundry bags from our set with us and only filled it up about halfway. Which brings me to the next point on this list…

14. Wash clothes in the sink

When my minimalist family of 4 traveled to Spain for two weeks, I packed half the amount of clothes, KNOWING that I would need to do some laundry while we were there.

The Airbnb amenity list informed us there was on-site laundry, but when we got there, we found there wasn’t any laundry detergent actually to wash our clothes. This was  no problemo  for us because I used another of my favorite minimalist travel hacks, which is to wash clothes in the sink, after which I hung them on the balcony to dry.

While I went low-maintenance and used dish soap that our Airbnb provided, you could also bring your own in a small bottle.

15. Experiences over souvenirs

It’s like the popular  minimalist quote  says: “ Collect memories, not objects .”

Instead of buying a bunch of cheap tchotchkes that will end up in the back of a drawer or cluttering up your bookshelf, spend your money on unique experiences. For example, go zip-lining through the rainforest or buy tickets to take the kids to the local zoo or aquarium.

After all, experiences make the best souvenirs!

Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. – Unknown

16. Save money by cooking yourself

This minimalist travel tip is to help you save money on food. Eating out can be expensive when traveling, so the more you cook and eat at home, the more money you will save!

Most of the time, when we travel, we pick a location with a kitchen we can cook in, so that we can eat two meals each day at home. This allows us to save money and splurge on one excellent dining-out experience every day – which is essential to us as eating good food is one of our top priorities when traveling!

We prepared for this trip by  doing a no-spend challenge  and keeping our budget on track.

✈️ Want to travel, but you’re short on cash? If you have trouble saving money, grab this FREE 2-page budget planner to help you spend less and save more. You can also read this guide on the best tips and ideas for budgeting like a minimalist here .

17. Portable charger

If you’re going off-grid or might find yourself in situations where you don’t have access to electrical outlets to charge your devices for a while, you might consider taking a portable charger with you.

This lightweight device can be a lifesaver, especially if you rely on your phone for GPS; just remember to keep it charged up before you go!

18. Minimalist travel with kids

If you’re traveling with kids, it helps to pick a place to stay with amenities you need for feeding, travel, and sleep.

While our kids are older, we did appreciate that our Airbnb had strollers, car seats, Pack’ N Plays, high chairs, and other family-friendly items that would make traveling with kids easier. (You can find a list of such amenities on the website or app listing.)

We did bring our own waterproof and foldable picnic blanket for the beach, but our host provided sun umbrellas, sand toys, and chairs to enjoy the beach to the fullest without needing to bring or buy these bulky items ourselves.

READ MORE: 10 Minimalism with Kids Tips That Can Save Your Motherhood

19. Pack a few medications

No matter where you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to pack some medications and first-aid items in case of an emergency. We packed a few band-aids, acid reflux tablets, pain relievers, etc.

20. Downsize your to-do list

One of the best things about minimalist travel is that it encourages you to consider what’s important to you and your loved ones. When material possessions do not bog you down, you can focus on experiences and making memories.

While it might be tempting to try and pack your schedule with a million different activities, it’s often better to choose a few key experiences you really want to have and savor them.

Downsizing your to-do list will help you be more present and better appreciate your vacation. It gives you space to be intentional with how you spend your time, reduces stress, and allows you to slow down.

When it comes to minimalist travel, less is  definitely  more !

Minimalist Packing Lists + Essentials

I’ll let you in on a dirty little secret: there’s  no such thing  as a one-size-fits-all minimalist packing list because minimalist travel essentials vary widely from person to person and trip to trip.

What one minimalist traveler dubs an essential on their must-pack list might be completely disregarded by someone else.

Please keep that in mind as you read through this list of ideas for packing light.

We consider this an ultralight packing list that still includes everything we need to be comfortable traveling as a minimalist family of 4 for two weeks in Europe with carry-on luggage only. This is NOT an extreme minimalist packing list, but more of a guide to minimal packing for normal people. 🙂

You can also watch the pack with me video linked below from our trip to see us in action.

Minimalist Packing List for Women (2 Weeks)

Here is the exact packing list I used for our two-week trip to Valencia, Spain; it’s a summer packing list because it was mid-July when we traveled there.

The next time we travel in cold weather, I will update this blog post with a winter packing list!

• 1 pair of linen pants
• 1 light linen jacket
• 3 bottoms (2 skirts, 1 pair of shorts)
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1 bra (strapless, nude color)
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 pair of socks
• 2 pairs of shoes (one pair of flats, one pair of waterproof sandals )
• 1 bathing suit
• sunscreen ( Shiseido )
• 1 pair of pajamas
• contacts + glasses
• 2 ponytail holders
• travel-sized moisturizer
• travel toothpaste
• eyebrow pencil + shadow
• lip balm (Aquaphor)

Minimalist Packing List for Men (2 Weeks)

• 1 light hoodie jacket
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of swim trucks
• 2 pairs of shoes (sandals + sneakers)
• 5 pairs of socks
• travel hair spray + creme

Minimalist Kids Packing List (2 Weeks)

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 light jacket
• 4 bottoms (shorts)
• 5 tops (T-shirts)
• 1 bathing suit (bottom + sun shirt)
• 1 pair of goggles
• 2 pairs of shoes (flip flops + sneakers)
• 3 pairs of socks
• kids sunscreen
• 2-in-1 shampoo + body wash

Our Minimalist Travel Essentials

• 1 laundry bag (to hold dirty laundry)
• packing cubes
• travel adaptor
• portable charger
• facemasks x 8 (may be required to board airplane)
• medicine (acid reflux tablets, medicinal tea, etc)
• waterproof picnic blanket
• 1 extra large beach towel
• smartphone (I have the iPhone XS Max in Rose Gold )
• camera + accessories (optional)

Final thoughts about minimalist traveling

Packing light doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the essentials – in fact, minimalist travelers often find that they enjoy their trips more because they’re not lugging around tons of stuff in a heavy suitcase or cluttering up their hotel room.

Following these minimalist packing and travel tips, you can learn how to pack smart and travel lightly without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Do you have a minimalist travel tip to share? Drop it in the comments section below; you might help another aspiring minimalist in the future!

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Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Blog , Packing Guides , Travel , Travel Tips · Last Updated: January 5, 2024

The Ultimate Packing Guide: 29 Must Have Travel Essentials

Must-have travel essentials: the ultimate packing guide written by a travel blogger.

Looking for the must-have travel essentials to help pack for a trip? I got you covered! Overpacking is a problem many people deal with when getting ready for a trip. It can be overwhelming to narrow down the necessities. Whether you’re heading out for a short weekend trip or embarking on a long-haul flight, having a well-curated list of must-have travel essentials can make all the difference. It’s important to bring along the essentials that will make your journey comfortable and stress-free.

Being the avid traveler that I am, I have perfected my vacation packing list with items that will make your life much easier when traveling. Forget overpacking and let’s get streamlined for your next destination. From luggage and travel accessories to clothing and toiletries, this guide will cover everything you need to know to make the most out of your travels. So you can be well-equipped with must-have travel essentials to hop on that flight and be prepared!

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for products I recommend. This means I get a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking one of these links at no additional cost to you. As always, I am so thankful for your support and will continue to share only products I truly use and love!

Best Carry-On Luggage

As a travel blogger, I am constantly on the go. When it comes to the dilemma of “to carry on or to not carry on” I always choose the latter. Who wants to deal with the drama of missing luggage? Not I! That’s why I always bring a carry-on suitcase (as well as a checked one because a girl needs her options).

I couldn’t recommend the Monos Carry-on Pro more. One of the best travel items to invest in. Monos has sleek carry-on luggage equipped with loads of interior pockets to help keep you organized on the go. They also include a lifetime warranty when purchasing so you can ensure you’ll have this suitcase for years to come. For my friends on a budget, consider this affordable Amazon version that has great reviews.

Best Checked Luggage

When choosing checked luggage, it’s important to pick a sturdy suitcase that’s easy to maneuver and has enough space for all your essentials. I would love to be the type of traveler to only bring a carry-on but I need options. This Monos large check-in is a literal lifesaver on long journey travels.

I packed 2.5 weeks of a Fall Europe adventure into this one suitcase alone. It has an unbreakable shell and ample compartments and zipper pockets to keep you organized while you’re on the go. The wheels are 360 degrees and are extremely quiet when barrelling through airports. Finally, if you’re on a budget consider this Amazon Checked Bag .

Best Travel Bags for Every Type of Traveler

Travel tote.

A travel tote is a great addition to your packing list and will help carry those extra items that didn’t fit in a carry-on. A good travel tote should be sturdy, spacious, and lightweight, with multiple compartments to help you stay organized. I love this Tote from BEIS because it’s so versatile and it goes with everything. It also has an insert that fits on your suitcase handle and a crossbody strap. All the options! Finally, it allows you to keep your essentials close at hand and provides a convenient way to stay organized on the go. For my friends on a budget consider this Amazon Travel Tote .

PRO TRAVEL TIP: Don’t pack out the tote before leaving. The reason is you’ll never know what you’ll pick up on your travels so leave space for a few souvenirs.

Travel Backpack

If you’re traveling from city to city with multiple stops then a travel backpack is the way to go! Don’t get me wrong, traveling with a tote is chicer however traveling with a backpack is more comfortable. Especially for long travel journeys. I use a backpack on most trips and have loved this Lululemon Backpack for years. It fits way more than you would expect it to! I’m able to fit my cosmetic hanging case, a Canon camera, an extra lens, my laptop, a baseball cap, and my AirPod Max headphones. All in this one bag. Don’t underestimate this backpack! For a more affordable option check out this one from Amazon .

Travel Weekender

If you need more space than a tote or a backpack then pick up this Weekender Bag . This weekend bag from Beis is great because it not only fits under the seat but is made of cloth fabric which makes it super durable. Along with that, it has a padded laptop pocket and a zippered shoe pocket at the bottom to bring that extra pair (because we always need that extra pair right ladies?). No lie, you can fit 3 pairs of shoes on the bottom of this bag. It’s incredible for space saving! Finally, check out this budget-friendly Amazon Weekend Bag .

Must-Have Travel Essentials Gear

Best packing cubes.

If you have never packed with packing cubes before, I urge you to try (and then thank me later). When packing, using packing cubes not only help with organization, but you can simply transport the cubes from your suitcase to a hotel dresser with much ease. Unpacking while on a trip has never been easier! Finally, if you’re traveling with your significant other, the hack is to purchase two sets (two different colors). This keeps us organized and easily distinguishes which cubes are whose. Finally, I’ve been using packing cubes for years now and can not leave home without them!

Beis Packing Cube Set

Amazon Packing Cube Set

Travel Containers for Liquids

Who wants to lug full-size beauty products on a trip? Not me! When purchasing travel containers it’s the perfect way to save space. I swear by these Amazon travel containers . They come in a pack of 4 with a bag for only $12. Talk about a steal! I’ve been on countless trips and so far there has been no spillage. It’s not easy to find containers that don’t leak. Finally, you’re feeling like you want to be extra cautious consider using a plastic bag to cover the opening of the container after you fill it. Then twist the top on top of the bag.

Cosmetic Case

Having all of your cosmetics in one place is the only way to do it when traveling, ladies. Who wants to scramble to find their moisturizer when you have a new destination to explore? By purchasing a roomy cosmetic case you are saving time by digging through that pack. This case fits all of my makeup and skincare items needed and the hanging option is a great option to have. Finally, I can fit this exact case in my travel backpack with lots of room to spare.

Travel Portable Charger

Nothing is worse than running out of phone battery while you’re in a foreign city or even traveling domestically. Do yourself a favor and purchase this portable battery charger so you never have to worry. This rechargeable power bank is my go-to comes in a pack of two so you never run out of juice. Furthermore, it charges your phone fast so you can continue on your journey with a full battery.

Noise Cancelling Headphones

These are my most used items when on a long flight. Nobody wants to hear babies crying or loud people amid conversation when on a long flight. The worst is when someone chooses to watch their phone without headphones cue the eye roll. Do yourself a favor and get these AirPod Max Noise Cancelling headphones so you can sit back and relax. I have had these for a year now and nothing has made my travels more stress-free. You literally cannot hear anything with these on. Finally, for a less expensive version, albeit with similar qualities, check this Amazon pair out !

AirFly Adapter

When traveling, I don’t like to use the headphones that the airlines give out. For many reasons. One they’re not noise canceling and two the output is so old. Since we are now in the 21st century there is an AirFly adapter that I just started using recently. This allows you to plug into the screen on your seat and listen with your headphones. Such a game changer when traveling with others too because there are two outputs. This means your partner and you can watch the movie together.

Travel Water Bottle

Don’t spend money on overpriced plastic water bottles at the airport. Instead, bring your reusable one. One of the best useful travel tips out there. Every airport has filtered fountains that are free to fill up your water. It’s so important to hydrate when traveling so you can arrive at your destination refreshed. But don’t forget to make sure it’s empty before going through security. Finally, for the exact collapsible water bottle I use, pick up this Amazon water bottle that’s perfect for extra space-saving.

Travel Wrap

One of my most used essentials for travel is a cashmere wrap. It can serve many purposes on a long-haul flight. You can wear it as a scarf, roll it up to use it as a pillow, or simply wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket when the cabin gets chilly (which it always does. let’s be real). This cashmere wrap is a bit of a splurge (think investment piece) but you’ll have it for years to come! I included a more affordable option from Amazon as well.

Silk Eye Mask

A silk eye mask is a must-have travel accessory that can make a big difference in the quality of your sleep when you’re on the go. When traveling, it’s not always easy to get a good night’s sleep. Whether you’re on a long-haul flight or staying in a hotel room with unfamiliar surroundings. A silk eye mask can help block out light and create a soothing environment for better sleep.

In addition to helping you get better sleep, silk eye masks can also provide a range of other benefits when traveling. They can help alleviate dry eyes and prevent puffiness, as well as provide a sense of privacy and relaxation in crowded or noisy environments.

Travel Adapter

If you have ever traveled abroad and were not able to use your curling iron, I feel for you! The electrical outlets in Europe use a different voltage and plug shape than those in North America, which means that if you plug in a device without an adapter, it could get damaged. When traveling to other countries it’s always smart to bring a travel adapter so you can use your electronics with no issue. Finally, we have this Amazon Adapter that has 4 international adapters for multiple countries.

A Straw Hat (Spring/Summer)

Packing a hat is high on the travel essentials list, especially when traveling to warm weather climates. If you want to lay by the pool and protect that precious face or just sightsee and stay nice and cool – make sure to pack a hat! I love my Brixton fedora so much that I own it in 3 colors. Packing Tip: pack the top of the hat with clothing and then surround the hat in your suitcase with soft clothing so it doesn’t bend.

Baseball Cap or Beanie (Fall/Winter)

For colder weather climates I always have a beanie or baseball cap on hand. For multiple reasons. One of which is that if my hair is greasy from traveling long days I can throw it on and look put together.

For trips where I’m active and outdoors, I always pack my oversized visor . It protects my face from the sun and I don’t have to worry about ruining it because it was only $17. Sure it may be a little dorky but your girl is a skincare queen so I’d rather that than get sun on my face when being outdoors all day.

Face Moisturizer

Being on a plane for multiple hours can dry anyone out. Don’t arrive at your destination with dry skin! Instead, use this Kiehl moisturizer to keep your skin looking nice and refreshed. I don’t leave home without it, especially when traveling.

Disinfectant Wipes + Hand Sanitizer

One word: Coronavirus. Let’s not forget 2020, the year that took the travel industry by storm. One of the most essential travel items is disinfectant wipes. When traveling it’s best to wipe your entire seat, TV, window, and tray table with disinfectant wipes BEFORE sitting down. I’m also linking my favorite shields for those who want extra protection.

Warm-weather or not, outside or inside, sunscreen is a necessity that everyone needs to use daily. For face sunscreen, I couldn’t recommend Elta MD more. You want to make sure you are always using broad-spectrum sunscreen because it protects against UVA and UVB rays. Elta MD is a dermatologist approved and ever since I started using it, I have never broken out. It’s my holy grail skincare item and if I could only pick a few essentials for travel, this would be top of my list!

Sunscreen Brush

Ok, this sunscreen brush is my new favorite item! When traveling, I tend to have a full face of makeup, and reapplying sunscreen in the middle of the day is tough when you are wearing makeup. Cue the SuperGoop sunscreen brush , the easiest way to re-apply sunscreen on the go. It’s truly a lifesaver and has come in handy during my recent travels.

Another travel packing list to check off is lip balm. Unfortunately, many people suffer from chapped lips when there is a climate change. This Summer Friday Lip Balm is the best for chapped lips. It goes on so smoothly and is not sticky like most other lip balms.

Body Lotion

Ladies, how much do you spend on skincare products? Now ask yourself, how much do you spend on body products? If you are like me, you would pick up whatever lotion was on sale at Target. But let me tell you when I started using Necessaire products the skin on my body never looked better! Not only does this lotion have niacinamide in it but it’s fragrance-free and it’s a must when packing my bags. You can shop for all the goods here .

Travel Card

If you are an avid traveler then one of the best travel products to invest in is a travel card. You can receive many perks such as free upgrades, free flights, and even a companion certificate so your companion can fly for free once a year (within the US). I use the American Express Delta card for everything and we use our miles to book flights quite often. Last year my husband and I flew to Europe and back for $100. It has an annual fee of $250 and you receive tons of benefits. If you use my Amex referral code you can currently get 50,000 bonus miles signing up!

Must-Have Travel Essentials Checklist

Below I covered the ultimate trip packing list for you to check off before your flight. Screenshot this travel packing checklist to help you plan:

Best Packing Tips from a Travel Blogger

Over the past 10 years, I have learned quite a few packing tips. I’m spilling the tea below!

• Use packing cubes! It’s the best way to organize and save space and time while traveling
• Roll your dresses altogether. Start by laying them all flat on top of each other and fold in the corners then roll and pack in a packing cube. You will save so much space
• The same can be applied to tops
• Pack socks and accessories inside your shoes
• Consider travel compression bags for heavier items. I use these when I travel in the fall/winter to pack sweaters and I’m always pleasantly surprised by how well they work
• If you’re not using a travel-safe container then use plastic wrap underneath the caps of your toiletry items

Well, there you have it. If you use this “Must Have Travel Essentials Packing List”, you will be more than prepared! Thanks for reading this must-have travel essentials post and check out more of my travel guides !

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March 9, 2024 at 10:59 pm

Love this post! As a frequent traveler, I can attest to the importance of packing the right essentials. I’ve found that a portable charger and a travel pillow are absolute game changers. Definitely saving this guide for my next trip!

March 10, 2024 at 12:28 pm

happy to hear that! safe future travels!

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22 Cheap Travel Hacks You Can Use Right Now

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » 22 Cheap Travel Hacks You Can Use Right Now

If you dream of traveling but don’t know how you can afford it, you’ve come to the right place! We’re sharing all our cheap travel tips that have allowed us to explore the world, even while paying off student loans! This guide will explain exactly how you can afford travel, even if you’re broke right now.

If you dream of traveling full time but are wondering how the heck people afford it, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve been traveling the world for the last 4 years while paying (lots!) of student loans at the same time.

And no; we don’t come from wealthy families & we didn’t win the lottery.

This has forced us to get creative and learn the best hacks for traveling the world on a super tight budget!

It is our passion to share these cheap travel hacks with others so we can prove that travel does not have to be expensive, and you don’t need to be rich to go on the vacations of your dreams. If we can do it, you can too!

We will go through these tips with you one by one and show you exactly how to travel on a budget like us.  

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We Traveled the World for 4 years on a Budget  with these 21 Brilliant Travel Hacks!

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1. become good at saving money.

It’s a constant learning process, but we’ve been able save quite a bit of money over the years that we use to fund our travels, save for the future and just pay for life… ya know, like eating food and buying toothpaste and stuff.

We’ve got all sorts of tips and tricks that have helped us save enough money to travel extensively and live out of our backpacks (on and off) for 3 years. We’ve put together all of our money-saving advice in one article and hope you can use our hacks to save up for whatever your dream may be

2. Be a master budgeter

No matter if we’re going on a weekend camping trip or a year-long, round-the-world adventure, we always, ALWAYS create a budget. If you don’t set an expectation of how much you’re going to spend, you’re almost guaranteed to overspend.

Sometimes our budget is tight, and other times, we decide that we’ll travel a little more luxuriously. Setting a budget doesn’t mean it has to be a low budget. Heck, you could set a budget of $1,000 USD a day if you’d like. The important part is to know your limits. 

Creating a budget can actually be pretty simple and fun. Follow along as we show you exactly how we make a fail-safe travel budget .

3. Find Cheap Flights

You can find amazing deals on flights if you know a few tricks. While there isn’t an exact science that works every time, there are a few ways you can find great deals on flights !

Track your flights

The best way to get a incredible deal is to monitor it frequently.  Sign up for newsletters, like Thrifty Traveler and Dollar Flight Club , or join Facebook Groups like Airfare Watchdog . These programs will let you know the best deals right now and will let you in on mistake fares. For example, we recently saw a round trip flight from LA to Hawaii for just over $300! Say whaaaat?!

Do the research

We usually start with Skyscanner because we love the fact that you can see the cheapest days each month to fly. Once we have a flight in mind, we compare the price with other search engines like Kayak and Google Flights.

4. Choose Cheap Countries

A budget of $5,000 will mean very different things depending on where in the world you plan to travel. In Western Europe, for instance, it might get you 1 month, where in South America you could spend 3 months traveling. And if you bring that amount to India, you could stretch it out to 5 months.

If your goal is to travel longer, choose countries where your money will last longer. Simple.

We typically choose countries where we can travel for less than $70 per day between the two of us because we know we can travel longer. (Plus, many of the places we’re interested in just happen to be inexpensive to travel.)

If you do choose expensive countries, PLAN it out

We have traveled to some infamously expensive places (like Iceland and Japan ), and we’re so glad we didn’t rule them out because of money.

You’ll need to do a lot more planning for expensive countries than you would if you’re visiting a cheap countries. Think about how you can save money: Will you be able to cook? What is the cheapest mode of transportation? And think outside of the box when it comes to accommodation. (Hint: read the rest of this article for all the answers to those questions. 

For some budget-minded wanderlust inspiration, find out how we traveled in these notoriously expensive places without breaking the bank:

Galápagos: How to Travel the Galápagos on a Budget

Iceland: Money-Saving Tips for Traveling Iceland on a Budget

Japan: Travel Budget for One Week in Japan

5. Pick the right travel season

Even for cheap countries to travel in, you need to think about the time of year you’ll be visiting because that can really affect your budget.

Croatia in July will be packed with tourists and you’ll be paying top dollar because it’s peak season (we made that mistake). But in October, you’ll still have nice weather and cheaper prices. If there’s a more expensive country you really want to visit, try traveling during low or shoulder season for the best deals.

6. Keep track of all your expenses (yes, ALL of them!)

We track every single thing we spend money on while traveling.

And when we say “everything”, we mean everything: accommodation, food, transportation, tours, entrance fees, beers, and yes, even that woven bracelet we bought from a small child that was too cute to resist.

It may sound extreme, but it is the best way to stay on top of a tight budget, and after a while it becomes a habit. There was one month we realized just how much money we were spending on ice cream, and let’s just say that we tried to cut down on that habit a bit…

There are plenty of apps out there to keep track of your budget so make sure you try out a few and pick one that works for you.

7. Get the Best Travel Credit Cards

Never pay an ATM fee again. That’s right, NO ATM fees anywhere in the world! We are seriously obsessed with this card (and it’s not a credit card), so get ready for our ravings…

The Charles Schwab High Yield Investors Checking Account debit card is a must for any serious traveler because it’s free to set up, there are no annual fees, and they reimburse ALL ATM fees at the end of each month.

Whenever we enter a new country, we take out the local currency at an ATM. We’ve found this to be more reliable than currency exchangers (some can really rip you off!), and more convenient than bringing currency from home. Some months we’ve been reimbursed as much as $50. This card has seriously saved us hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars.

Tip: Be sure to take a picture of each ATM receipt so you have a record of the amount that your should be reimbursed.

The Travel Credit Cards we use:

We’re going to go over exactly which cards we actually use, as well as the reasons we love them.

Caution: The cards we use might not be the best choice for you, especially if you are just starting out with credit cards. Also, remember there are two of us. Some of these cards, we EACH have, while others only one of us has.

American Express Platinum – Great for: Lounge access, Uber credit, extra airline perks, sign up bonus

Chase Sapphire Preferred – Great for: Sign up bonus, Extra bonus for using miles when purchasing travel (If you have great credit, you should apply for the Chase Sapphire Reserve which is the elite version of the Preferred.)

Capital One Venture – Great for: Everyday card, good sign up bonus, easy to use miles

Barclays Arrival Plus – Great for: Great sign up bonus, easy to use miles, similar to Capital One Venture

8. Pack Light and Pack Right

We have certainly been guilty of over-packing in the past and we’d lug around extra clothes we never wore. The luggage fees that many airlines have started enforcing made us simplify our packing list so it’s down to the essentials.

Carrying less makes us feel more free, plus, packing light means you can carry on your luggage and you won’t have to pay those pesky baggage fees, which can add up if you have multiple flights.

Find out How to Pack Everything You Need for Travel in a Carry-On , where we share all our packing tips and the best gear we can’t travel without. 

Related: Eco-friendly travel gear you can take anywhere that will save you money

9. Watch what you eat

Food can add up while traveling since you’ll likely be eating out lots of the time. Here are some tips for finding cheap (and delicious!) food on your travels:

Go to happy hour:  Order drinks and appetizers on discount for a fun dinner!

Try street food: It’s often the best (and most authentic!) food you’ll find on  your travels. Pro Tip: If you’re nervous about sanitation, choose stalls that have a line because you’ll know the food is not sitting for long.

Ask locals where they eat:  Try asking, “Where do you eat for lunch?” or “If you were to go out to eat, where would you go?” instead of saying, “Which restaurant do you recommend I try?” Sometimes when asked this last question, they’ll point you in the direction of restaurants that are popular with tourists instead of locals because they may assume that’s what you want.

Pack a picnic: In expensive places, picnics are a great way to save money on food. Stock up with staples like bread, cheese, veggies, hummus, fruit, cookies, wine(!) and whatever else your heart (or tummy!) desires. Enjoy your meal with a view and save the leftovers for the next day!

Split your meals: Whenever possible, try to split with others. Oh, and Ben and I split a lot. Typically we get two meals, but if we want a smoothie or a dessert, we’ll only order one. When you’re trying to save money (and you’re part of a couple), it just doesn’t make sense to ALWAYS get two $4 ice cream cones. At least, this is what I try to convince myself…

Have a big lunch:  Make lunch your biggest meal of the day when prices are often lower for the same dish than at dinner time.

Know which restaurants to avoid: Stay away from restaurants where someone is calling you inside. This is a sure sign of a tourist-trap restaurant where prices are inflated and food is mediocre. Avoid restaurants near tourist attractions or on main city streets. They pay higher rent, which is reflected in the prices of their food.

10. Take Public Transport

Avoid taxis and chartered vehicles. Instead, take public transportation — metros, buses and trains. Not only will you rub shoulders with locals and have a more authentic experience, but your wallet will thank you. Renting a bike is also a good way to explore a city and it’s usually cheaper than taking taxis.

Pro Tip: Research what apps are popular for transportation in the country you’re visiting. In much of Asia, for example, Grab is a cheaper alternative to Uber. And in Europe, try using BlaBlaCar – a ride sharing app.

11. Take advantage of free activities

No matter how expensive a country you’re visiting, there are always free things to do! Try searching Google for ideas: “free things to do in __________”. Here are some of our favorite free (or cheap!) things to do in any place we visit around the world:

Take a free walking tour

Explore local markets

Rent a bike and see the city

Have a picnic at a park

Explore free museums

Go on a hike

Get a killer view at a rooftop bar or tall building instead of paying the steep prices of the popular tourist views

12. Talk to Locals

Don’t be shy: ask the locals what they do on the weekend. Ask the man next to you on the bus or your waitress or a stranger in front of you in line at a coffee shop. You’ll get a good idea of authentic ways to see their city, and much of the time their suggestions will be cheaper than the touristy alternatives.

13. Cook whenever possible

In Europe and South America, we typically stayed at places with kitchens and were able to cook many of our meals, which saved us tons of money.

In our 5 months traveling Asia, however, we never once had access to a kitchen ( except for when we took cooking classes, of course! ). And it was fine because food there – especially the local stuff – is so cheap that cooking wouldn’t have been any less expensive.

14. Choose your splurges wisely

If you’re traveling for a long time, you can’t do it all. You need to choose what experiences are important to you, and you’ll also need to get comfortable passing on some things.

Splurging on once-in-a-lifetime experiences ( like taking a hot air balloon ride in Turkey!  or whale watching in Victoria, British Columbia ) is part of traveling. You’ll regret it if you don’t. But choose your splurges wisely and know when to pass. Your budget will balance itself out.

Trust us… we know about splurging all too well. We’re obsessed with eating (everything!), we usually spend a little more money on comfortable accommodation, and we can’t resist adventure sports.

But we cut costs in other ways and pass on things that we know we know we won’t regret.

15. Find Deals on Hotels

Accommodation adds up quickly and can often be the biggest expense while traveling, but there are ways to cut this cost significantly. Accommodation does not have to be expensive!

Just to give you an idea, during our year of round the world travel , the most expensive place we stayed was $55 per night for the both of us (in Lake Bled, Slovenia).

And believe us – we were not slumming it during our travels. We stayed in some pretty fantastic places, and the sites below are how we got got ahhh-mazing deals:

If you are traveling in Asia, Agoda is hands-down the best place to find cheap accommodation. This site is easy to use and has a great review system, so you’ll easily get a feel for how nice each hotel is. And the deals are unbeatable.

Booking.com

We loved using Booking.com when we were in Europe and traveling around the U.S.A. They have really good hotel deals and are always running discounts on night stays. They typically have free cancellation as well, which is a nice perk. 

In Europe and the US, we love Airbnb  because we we’re able to stay in a more “local” area and have access to kitchens so we can save money on food.

Try out Airbnb . If you’re new, sign up here and you’ll get $55 off your first stay ! Yes, seriously – no gimmicks!

We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our  Airbnb article .

Hostelworld

Before you get all judgey when you hear the word “hostel”, keep reading…

Hostels are almost always cheaper than traditional hotels, and contrary to popular belief, they are not just dorms! There are almost always private rooms that are quite affordable. Plus, many hostels have kitchens you can use, free breakfast, affordable tour options and local advice. And they typically have a common space where you can meet other travelers and exchange stories and travel information.

Couchsurfing

Another option to try is Couchsurfing . It’s completely free and you’re able to stay with a local which can lead to some unforgettable experiences that you wouldn’t be able to have in a hotel. And who knows, maybe you’ll make a new friend! Before trying it out for the first time, you might want to read about Couchsurfing safety and tips so you feel more at ease.

Depending on where you are in the world, camping can be a great way to save money on accommodation (and it’ll add to the adventure!). Be sure to really research the laws in your country when it comes to where and when you can pitch a tent, and invest in quality gear. There’s nothing worse than waking up to a soaked tent and sleeping bag.

One potential downside of this option is that you’ll have pack your accommodation with you. You’ll have to find the balance between minimizing your load, while still being prepared.

16. Travel slowly

If you only have 2 weeks, it makes sense to bounce around quickly. You’ll want to see as much as you can in the time you’ve got (even if you’re fighting back to the urge to quit your 9-to-5 to travel ).

But if you’re traveling for an extended period of time, you’ll need (and want!) to slow down. Traveling for a longer period of time can be much cheaper per day than a short trip. Bus rides are cheaper than flights and agreeing to stay somewhere for a week might land you a great deal.

17. Do a skill exchange

And while we’re on the topic of traveling slowly… Volunteering on your travels is a great way to delve into a community, make a positive difference and get free (or very inexpensive) room and board.

We’ve had great experiences working on organic farms through WWOOF and WorkAway . HelpX is another site trusted by travelers to find volunteer opportunities overseas. And if you want to/able to stay in one area for an extended period of time and don’t mind taking care of an animal, you could try House Sitting .

Caution: Whenever talking about volunteering abroad, we caution people to really do their research. “Voluntourism” is a growing industry and there are many programs that are actually detrimental to the communities in which volunteers work.

Many of these programs also require a hefty fee, so they are by no means a cheap alternative to travel. There are great organizations out there, so don’t let this warning scare you away!

18. Drink from the tap

Ben sterilizing water on our trek to Everest Base Camp

Water isn’t something you really think about when you’re packing for long term travel or figuring out a budget, but it should be on your radar.

If you’re planning to visit countries in Central and South America, Africa or Asia, a Steripen should be on your list of must-get travel gear! In many regions of the world, you can’t drink from the tap, and buying plastic bottles of water is not only wasteful, it can be very expensive (especially if you are hydrating properly!). So using a Steripen to sterilize your water is an amazing money-saving (and waste-saving!) tip. 

Being the Excel-loving nerd he is, Ben calculated how much money our Steripen saved us during our 3-month trip to South America, and it was surprising… We saved over $200 in 3 months, because we rarely needed to buy water bottles.

Read more: Check out this article with some of our favorite money-saving gear and resources .

19. Avoid being scammed

While we are big believers that there is more good in the world than bad, there are unsavory characters in every city and country. However, while traveling you’re in unfamiliar territory. This can make you a bigger target for people trying to scam you and take your money.

A couple pieces of advice are to Google “common scams in _____” before visiting a new place. Each country has scams of their own, and once you’re aware of them, you’ll be less likely to fall victim.

And as a general rule of thumb, the most common places to be scammed are before, during and after transportation. For example, the time between landing at the airport and getting to your hotel. This is when you are carrying all your luggage, tired from traveling and in a totally new place.

Being aware and cautious can save you from losing money to scam artists. 

20. Make money on the road

There are lots of ways to earn a little cash online (or a lotta cash! – depending on how much time you can dedicate).

Freelance work: There are quite a few sites out there that connect freelancers with clients looking for all types of help on their business. I used to use Upwork.com and had luck finding projects I could do from anywhere in the world.

Teach English online: One super easy way Ben has recently found is to teach English in an online classroom with VIPKID . You can earn anywhere between $16-$22 per hour (plus additional incentives) practicing English with elementary-age students in China. You can set your own schedule, work as many hours as you want and you don’t even need to your TEFL or teaching experience to do it. All you really have to do is be on time, be energetic and be happy, which many of you already are. It will be the easiest money you make online !

Start a Blog: Another way we make money online is through this blog. We’ve shared more information on how to start a successful money-making blog here so check it out!

But don’t be fooled – earning money while traveling isn’t easy. You need to have access to reliable Internet, which can be difficult in some parts of the world. If you are working with clients in your home country, you might need to think about working in different time zones to meet deadlines.

And sometimes, you’re going to have to forgo fun things in order to get work done. Trust us, it’s not easy saying no to a daiquiri on the beach in order to meet a deadline.

21. Teach English Overseas

If you want a long term international experience, we can’t stress enough how great an opportunity teaching English in South Korea was for us. It allowed us to live in another country and really delve into the culture while making (a lot of!) money.

We’ve gone over exactly how much money you can plan to make in one year teaching English in South Korea , so we won’t say much more on the topic other than DO IT if it is remotely interesting to you.

22. Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is something you just can’t risk going without. It won’t save you much money up front, but if something were to happen, you could save hundreds if not thousands of dollars by being covered.

We’ve met a handful of people who have had unfortunate accidents on the road and have had to be airlifted to nearby hospitals. That type of evacuation ain’t cheap, and it most certainly will add a couple zeros to the end of your budget. Don’t risk it.

Travel insurance isn’t as expensive as you’d think and it will cover these emergencies (even though you hope you never have to use your coverage!). Some policies even cover valuables stolen on the road or delayed flights.

We have an entire article devoted to helping you choose the right travel insurance policy for you ! There aren’t any excuses anymore.

Create a Travel Budget in 6 Simple Steps

Now that you know all our cheap travel hacks and how we afford to travel around the world, let’s create a travel budget just for you. 

Your budget will determine how much money you need to save, and it will also kind of shape your trip. For instance, if your travel budget is small, you might opt out of certain cities or activities. And if you’ve got a lotta dough to spend, you can research all the fun things you can do with it!

And we’re going to share with you exactly how we do it, in 6 simple steps. The beauty of this exercise is that you can cater it to fit whatever your dream trip may be – whether it be a one-week vacay in Hawaii or a one-year journey around the world .

And better yet, it only takes about 20 minutes to come up with a really solid plan of how much money you’ll need to save for your trip. So what are you waiting for?

Let’s take the first step in turning your daydreams into reality…

Step 1: Define your Travel Style

Travel is completely personal, and there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to do it. But in order to determine your budget, you’ve first got to figure out your travel style.

Read the following statements and see which one sounds most like you:

Budget Traveler:

“I don’t mind sleeping in dorm rooms or taking local forms of transportation (even though it’s sometimes slower). I prefer eating at authentic “hole-in-the-wall” type eateries and don’t typically like doing organized tours. I enjoy traveling on a budget because it allows me to interact with locals and often brings more adventure than when you pay top dollar.”

Mid-Range Traveler:

“I like a mix of comfort and authentic adventure. I don’t want to sleep in dorm rooms with people I don’t know, but I don’t need a 5-star hotel every night. When traveling, I enjoy eating at a variety of places –ranging from street stands to nice cafes. I like splurging every once in a while, but am okay roughing it a bit too. For me, it’s all about balance.”

Luxury Traveler:

“When I travel, I like to enjoy the finer things – from plush hotels, to the top-rated restaurants and entertainment. I think that a vacation should be full of splurges, and I don’t like holding back. I enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences and I like to have all the details arranged for me, even if it costs more money. Traveling is my time to relax and explore, and I don’t want to miss out by sticking to a strict budget.”

So which one is it?

Maybe you are between two styles. Not quite “budget”, but not exactly “mid-range” either. Or perhaps you’re between “mid-range” and “luxury”.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to feel. But determining what type of travel style you identify with is the first step to coming up with a realistic budget.

Step 2: Find your Daily Budget

Do a quick Google search for a daily budget of a country you’re thinking of visiting. A good site to start with is Budget Your Trip .

Choose a country, your travel style (Step #1) and your currency, and you’ll get a pretty good estimate of how much to expect to spend each day.

Write this number down because you’ll need it for the next steps.

Step 3: Get your Preliminary Total

Multiply the number you got in Step #2 (Daily Budget) by how many days you plan to be there. This will give you the preliminary cost of your trip. But, hold on – you’re not done just yet!

Step 4: Give yourself some “Padding”

Now, calculate 10-20% of the preliminary total you got in Step 3.

You know yourself best. If you’re great at sticking to a budget, maybe you can get by with an additional 10%. But if budgets aren’t your thing, maybe an extra 25% is more realistic. We typically add a 15% padding.

Add this number to your total, but don’t include it in your daily spending budget (Step 2). Remember, you don’t necessarily want to spend this money – it’s just there as a buffer for souvenirs, last minute splurges or incidentals.

Step 5: Plan your Splurges

Even if you have a budget to stick to, splurges are just part of traveling. Don’t let lack of money hold you back from something you’ve been dreaming about, like diving in the Galápagos or a taking a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia . It may be expensive, sure, but it’s part of your journey. And if you want it badly enough, it’s worth it.

Plan out your splurges so you’re ready for them. (Include this cost in your total budget, but don’t divide it into your daily spending.)

And when you do splurge, make sure it’s with a ethical company giving back to the local community and environment. Read our 36 Tips for Traveling Responsibly article for more information.

Step 6: Add on Airfare and Travel Insurance

Note that when you search for a daily budget in a particular country, it will typically NOT include airfare or travel insurance. You will have to add these costs in as well.

For airfare: We like getting airfare estimates on SkyScanner because you can search an entire month and see the cheapest day to fly.

For travel insurance: We like World Nomads for travel insurance. Get a super quick quote here.

And there you have it: Your own fully-customized travel budget! CONGRATS!

Tip: You can also do this exercise in reverse. What I mean is if you have $3,000 USD saved up, and you want to visit Thailand , start with Step #6 and work backwards by subtracting the costs. You’ll be able to see how many days a reasonable budget will bring you with $3,000 USD to spend.

Interested in more budget travel resources?

Be sure to check out our Budget Travel homepage for resources on everything you need to get your travel budget started and more! Or you can read some of our favorite articles about budget travel below. 

How to Find Cheap Flights: 17 Expert Tips

8 Reasons Why You Should House Sit and How to Get Started

Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip Across the USA

Plan a Trip: The Ultimate Guide to Budgeting, Planning & Packing

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We want to hear from you!

Which cheap travel hack do you like the best? Which one will you use next? Have you created you travel budget? Let us know in the comments below. Or ask us anything about budget travel, we’d like to help you out!

Comments (13) on “ 22 Cheap Travel Hacks You Can Use Right Now ”

Thanks for sharing such valuable tips.

Hi, great tips! If I may add a few more especially related to money — since travellers from outside the US cannot get the charles schwab card – there are other ways to avoid ATM Fees – I use this app – it gives you a list of ATMs with the ATM Fees in 30-40 foreign countries along with withdrawal limits for foreign card holders so you can choose the ones which do not charge any fee to foreign card holders. Also, I always decline conversion at foreign ATMs or select “Without Conversion” and not exchange cash at airports, worst currency exchange rates ever.

Very useful tips to save money.

Great! Also, nice advice also check this out http://bit.ly/2WuFwkQ it might help as well.

I actually spend very little time finding deals! The key to getting a good deal is to be spontaneous, especially while traveling, so thanks. These is STUNNING TIPS!

Hi You Two!

Thank you so much for this incredible article and your site as a whole. My husband and I are getting ready for our first RTW trip, starting in November. This article had tons of valuable information in a concise and efficient way. We so appreciate you!!

Thanks so much Sophia, glad you liked all our travel hacks!

Wow – super comprehensive guide! Thanks for these tips! I’m pretty good at getting deals but I definitely got some new ideas here!

Great, happy to hear you got some new ideas!

Thank you for breaking down the expenses of travelling in South East Asia vs normal living in the states. This helped me get a grasp of what I will need to budget for when I decide to travel that way for 3 months! Thanks again, very much appreciated!

Thanks for the kind words, Kraig. We are so glad it has been helpful to you. Best of luck as you plan!

Stumbleupon your travel blog. My GF and I started

Great Derek, glad you found us 🙂

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

49 Best Travel Tips to Save Time, Money, & Stress in 2024

Traveling locally, across the country, or to another continent is an exciting way to form memories and experience other cultures. But an awry trip can usher in unnecessary stress, expenses, and potential regrets.

These travel tips can help you have a successful trip from the initial planning stages, as you pack your bags, and once you reach your destination. 

Table of Contents

Best Travel Tips While Preparing for a Trip

This collection of tips covers just about everything you should consider when traveling and before you go. You are most likely practicing some of them, making them a good reminder, and others can help prevent uncommon travel surprises.

1. Book At Least Six Weeks in Advance

Instead of carving time out of your schedule to book your trip at a specific date or time (such as Tuesdays at 3 a.m. using a private browsing session to find discounted fares), a more effective strategy is researching travel options at least four to six weeks in advance.

You can still find cheap flights and ideal flight times at least six weeks before departure. Getting on the hunt two or three months before major holidays is also good.  

Last-minute travel savings are possible but you may be unable to get a desired departure time, layover window, or destination. Waiting until the final days can be worth it if you have a flexible schedule and are open-minded about where you travel to.

Learn More: Best Days and Times to Book Flights

2. Travel in the Off-Season or Shoulder Season

Avoiding the peak travel season is one of the easiest ways to pay less for flights and lodging. You also will enjoy smaller crowds and the weather can still be decent for your intended activities.

For example, visiting Spain is delightful in March and April but travel prices are elevated during Semana Santa (Holy Week) when most cities have processions that virtually shut down the city.

Another example is visiting a beach town during the shoulder season. The shoulder season is the time between the peak and the offseason. So you could take a trip to Cape May, NJ from the middle of May to the end of June instead of during the July/August peak. The weather is still good enough during the shoulder season to enjoy most peak-season activities.

3. Compare Multiple Booking Sites

Comparing prices from several travel booking sites can help you find the best rate within minutes. Airlines, hotels, and rental cars offer several slots to third-party booking sites and you can pay less than booking directly from the carrier.

It’s worth your time to check prices directly from the carrier website but also from one or more third-party booking sites (online travel agencies or OTAs) like Hotels.com , Kayak , or Google Flights .

The Vacationer Tip

Along with looking for the best flight schedule and prices, you can use our guide to help find the best seats on the plane and book them for cheap or for free.

4. Book Directly from the Travel Provider

While you can find discounted prices through online travel agencies and third-party booking sites, booking directly from the airline, hotel, or rental car agency provides more protection if you must cancel or reschedule. This is especially important for flights and the 24-hour cancellation rule .

With third-party reservations, you may be locked into a particular itinerary that could be non-refundable or non-changeable. You will need to call the booking site to determine what your alternatives are. If you’re eligible for a refund, it can take longer to receive your funds.

5. Stay at a Hostel to Save Money

Hostels are a common and safe way to secure affordable lodging in Europe and Asia. If you’re traveling solo or in a group and okay with not having as much privacy, a hostel helps keep your travel costs down. 

Despite many misconceptions, most establishments are well-run with clean bathrooms and bedding. You may also be able to get a basic breakfast at some. With that said, be sure to research your options and consider paying a little more to get more luxurious accommodations.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Staying in a Hostel

6. Consider Vacation Rentals for Extended Stays

Vacation rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO have become immensely more popular since the pandemic as people yearned for privacy. While hotels are usually better for shorter stays as you avoid expensive cleaning fees and service fees, a vacation home or villa can be more cost-effective for extended stays.

At a minimum, a rental or an extended-stay hotel is more likely to offer a full kitchen suite that allows you to cook full meals instead of relying on packaged snacks or what fits inside the hotel mini-fridge. 

Vacation rentals can also be cheaper per square foot if traveling as a family. Instead of squeezing into a hotel suite or booking multiple rooms, you have spacious accommodations. If you have small children, the extra space can keep you from losing your mind on rainy days.

The Vacationer’s Tip: While many people focus on spending less for flights, hotels and vacation rentals can have variable pricing. Here is how to find and book cheap hotels to enjoy clean and spacious lodging on a budget.

7. Buy Travel Insurance for Expensive or International Trips

Travel insurance is inexpensive on most itineraries and can save you thousands of dollars if your non-refundable travel is canceled or delayed for qualifying reasons. 

Obtaining coverage is a good option for expensive trips. Picking up a policy can also be worth it when traveling outside the United States as you can have medical coverage and emergency evacuation benefits that your ordinary health insurance may not provide outside the country.

You should also consider booking your trips using credit cards with travel insurance coverage . These benefits are sufficient for low-cost excursions and can activate before your standalone travel insurance policy can. They can also provide complimentary rental car coverage .

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers the best credit card travel insurance benefits. Namely, you can be eligible for trip interruption and cancellation coverage of up to $10,000 per person ($20,000 per trip), primary auto rental collision damage waiver, up to $500 per ticket in trip delay reimbursement, and up to $100,000 in emergency evacuation  Learn How to Apply Here

8. Consider Annual Travel Insurance Plans

If you travel regularly, an annual travel insurance policy covers multiple trips at a lower premium than buying a new policy for each trip. This is an excellent option for frequent leisure travelers and business travelers.

9. Review Airline and Hotel Cancellation Policies

Your travel plans may change unexpectedly for personal or work reasons. Before you book, take the time to review the cancellation and modification policies just to make sure they are reasonable.

You want to make sure you have a strong possibility of getting a refund or a travel credit to redeem later. Being locked into a non-refundable itinerary may not be worth the savings unless you’re booking right before you go or your travel insurance may issue a refund.

In addition to researching the cancellation policy, be sure to review an airline’s seating and carry-on policy to avoid add-on fees and restrictions. 

10. Choose Early Flights

Early morning flights are the best time to fly for several reasons. First, these departures are less likely to be delayed as it’s a new travel day with rested crews and minimal weather-related interruptions. 

Additionally, these flights can be cheaper as you need to arrive at the airport a little earlier. Routes popular with business travel can be an exception to this rule, but you can anticipate paying less than for a mid-day sortie.

Learn More: How to Avoid Flight Delays and Cancellations

11. Arrive at the Airport Early

Photo: Pixabay

Getting to the airport at least an hour before departure for domestic flights at small airports or when you’re not checking luggage. Plan on arriving at least two hours for domestic flights at busy airports, if you’re checking a bag, or traveling with small children.

What about international flights? Plan on arriving at least three hours before departure to allow additional time for a potentially longer check-in time.

Learn More: How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

12. Qualify for Expedited Airport Security 

If you fly several times a year, obtaining expedited airport security credentials can help you avoid long airport security lines. 

The first step is applying for a federally-administered Trusted Traveler Program, such as:

• TSA PreCheck : Enjoy expedited security at domestic airports only.  
• Global Entry : Get expedited processing at customs lines on international flights plus TSA PreCheck benefits. 
• NEXUS : Ideal for travel between the U.S. and Canada. It also includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits. 

Several rewards credit cards are offering free Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fee credits to save a few dollars.

In addition to Trusted Traveler programs, you can also shave a few minutes off security wait times with CLEAR at select major airports and stadiums. Where available, this pre-security program can help you reach the expedited TSA security lines sooner. 

Getting a Redress Number can help those who frequently have boarding pass issues, are subject to additional security screenings (including having SSSS on their boarding pass ), and those who experience delayed or denied boardings.

Learn More: How to Get Through TSA Airport Security Faster

13. Relax at an Airport Lounge

If you have a long layover or arrive at the airport several hours later, visiting an airport lounge (like a Centurion Lounge ) can help you grab a complimentary meal and drink, and recharge your devices. You can also have a comfortable place to sit and the luxury lounges offer spa treatment, sleeping rooms, and shower suites to clean up.

Single-day passes are pricey but there are several credit cards with lounge access . Most lounges allow entry for the primary cardholder and up to two guests complimentary up to three hours before your next flight’s departure.

Airport lounge access is just one way to reduce air travel stress . Check out our article for additional suggestions. 

14. Check Your Passport Expiration Date

Some countries and airlines won’t let you travel if your passport expires within six months. If you’re planning a trip, see if your passport is expiring soon to prevent delaying your trip.

Consider renewing your passport early if you’re approaching the six-month expiration window as the passport processing times can take up to 13 weeks to receive your new document. You can pay extra for expedited processing but the process can still take several weeks.

After submitting your renewal request, you can check your passport application status online .

Finally, use our How to Take Your Own Passport Photo guide to simplify things when applying or renewing.

15. Don’t Go Into Debt for Vacation

As much as you’re earning to get away on a dream trip, it’s probably not worth going into debt for. Whether your bank is offering a vacation loan or you intend on carrying a credit card balance (even with a 0% APR), borrowing money to travel can backfire.

Instead, look for the best options within your spending power. Consider setting aside money each month and delaying your trip if necessary.

In addition to saving up for travel in a dedicated savings account, you can use travel rewards credit cards to redeem points to defray purchases. Some cards offer annual statement credits that reimburse eligible travel bookings. 

Additionally, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards also offer complimentary benefits to spend less.  

Making a travel budget can help you plan for travel expenses so you’re not nervous about running out of cash while you travel or having regrets once you return home.

16. Exercise and Stretch

Once you depart for your trip, be sure to stretch and perform basic exercises as time and space permit. It can be as basic as stationary stretches while sitting in your seat to walking the airport terminal. If driving, stay outside for a few extra minutes at the gas station or rest area.

Stretching and being active once you arrive is also beneficial and can help you sleep better.

Best Travel Tips for Packing

17. only bring a carry-on.

When possible, only bring a carry-on to avoid lost or missing checked luggage. You can also avoid checked baggage fees and excessive weight charges if you overpack. Using the best carry-on can help you find the perfect soft or hard-sided luggage to fit your travel gear.

If you need to check a bag, it most likely won’t get lost but could get delayed. Here’s our helpful guide on what to do during baggage delays .

18. Pack as Light as Possible

Packing is stressful; Many people overpack to ease their anxiety, which sometimes means bringing extra suitcases or paying to check a bag. Write down everything you think you need on your packing list. After it’s complete, cut it down to the bare minimum.

Pack underwear and socks for the number of showers you expect to take; Add an emergency pair for every five or so days of your trip. Shirts and pants can usually be worn multiple days in a row. If your accommodation has a washing machine, you can pack even less.

19. Carry-On Overnight Travel Essentials

You never know when a flight delay will turn into spending the night in the terminal or at a nearby hotel. While the airline may provide meal vouchers, you should pack these travel essentials to freshen up:

• A change of clothes, especially extra underwear and socks
• Powerbank (they cost about $20 and have several phone/tablet recharges)
• Travel charger

Even if you’re not stuck somewhere overnight, these small and compact items can also help you rest while on the road:

• Earplugs (great for plane rides and noisy hotels)
• Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones
• Travel blanket
• Travel pillow (see the best travel neck pillows )

Adding these carry-on essentials to your packing list can prepare you for nearly any change of plans and to weather a long layover or flight. 

20. Don’t Forget a Power Adapter

A power adapter is essential in most foreign destinations to charge your devices. Traveling to Canada or Mexico is an exception as the standard voltage is 120v and these countries have the same outlet design as the United States. Check to see the adapter requirements for the country you are visiting before leaving.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler recently visited South Africa and needed a Type M adapter. He purchased this Ceptics International Power Plug Adapter Travel Set , which includes 13 adapters for just about every foreign country.

21. Use Packing Cubes

There are a couple of ways to organize your travel luggage to squeeze everything in. Your bag may include built-in storage compartments or you might roll up clothing and put them in packing cubes or vacuum storage bags. If you’re on a budget, rubber bands or plastic bags can also do the job. I recommend the following packing cubes: Veken 6 Set of Various Colored Packing Cubes .

Packing for a vacation can feel like a fine art at times, even as a seasoned traveler. Our travel packing list can cover everything you need to bring so you don’t forget and have to buy something along the way.

22. Bring an Empty Water Bottle

For over 20 years, it’s become ingrained for air travelers to pack liquids in containers containing no more than three ounces. This security rule means you can’t bring a filled water bottle through airport security, but you can bring an empty one.

Most airports have filtered water dispensers in the post-security terminal that you can fill up your bottle with and avoid paying big bucks for bottled water. You also won’t struggle to stay hydrated during your journey.

If you’re driving, consider bringing a travel water filter or a portable filter that you can use in your hotel room to pay pennies for filtered water.

23. Dress Comfortably for the Flight

You should dress comfortably for the plane ride. Dressing in layers with a light jacket or a travel blanket can help you stay warm if the cabin is cool. Bringing travel slippers or slip-on shoes on long-haul flights is another overlooked comfort hack. Wear sweatpants instead of jeans.

24. Bring Duplicate Travel Documents

Take a few minutes to photocopy your critical travel documents such as your government-issued IDs and passport. Be sure to keep these papers separate from your originals in case one set gets lost.

Once you arrive at your destination, you may decide to go out in public with your duplicates and keep your originals plus at least one payment card in the room safe. That way, a pickpocket doesn’t run off with the more valuable set and you still have a way to make purchases. 

Taking it a step further, write down your credit card numbers and the emergency contact number if you need to call and cancel if your plastic goes missing. If you don’t have a phone number, you can also look for a pay phone that should have a toll-free number to contact Visa or Mastercard to cancel your card.

25. Keep Valuables at Home and Bring a Lock

Unless it’s necessary to bring them along for a business function or a personal event, leave your valuables at home. The hassle of keeping them secure and the risk of losing them may not be worth the replacement cost. 

This includes your fine jewelry, watches, and high-end electronics that are nice to use but optional for this trip. Additionally, these items can make you a target for thieves.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler also recommends bringing a luggage lock or a standard combination lock.

26. Install a Luggage Tracking Device

Bluetooth tracking devices like the Apple AirTag are a small and easy way to see where your carry-on and checked luggage are at all times. A single piece is about the size of a coin and costs $30 or less.

27. Bring Comfy Walking Shoes

Most of the world walks more steps than we do daily. Therefore, it’s essential to pack at least one pair of comfortable shoes or sandals to stroll the streets of your destination. Comfortable footwear is also a must-have if you’re staying stateside.

28. Keep a Travel Journal

Consider packing a notebook or diary into your carry-on. Handwriting your favorite travel memories in a journal is an easy way to remember the intricacies that you may struggle to remember years later when you reflect. 

For example, you can write down what you did each day along with exciting facts. Having everybody share their favorite activity for the day is another way to use this journal.

Best Travel Tips for Once You Arrive

29. learn the local customs.

Words and expressions can have different meanings where you’re traveling to. It’s also a good idea to know some of the common phrases and customs the locals practice so you can have a basic conversation.

You can research these details online or in a guidebook.

30. Dress As a Local

Blending in with the crowd can help prevent unwanted attention from panhandlers and pickpockets. For example, don’t wear revealing clothing when the culture favors pants or long dresses. Researching fashion advice for your destination is your best option.

31. Be Wary of Local Scams

Brushing up on the latest tourist scams can help you avoid bad situations. A recent travel guidebook is a reliable way to find the most common tactics for your destination. Two to look out for are unofficial taxis and fake wifi hotspots. 

32. Consider Wearing a Money Belt

Long-time travelers have a love-hate relationship with money belts as they point you out as a tourist if you’re constantly reaching for it in public. Additionally, wearing the belt all day can be a nuisance as it’s an extra layer of fabric you’re not used to.

At the same time, it’s harder to steal a money belt than to grab something from your pockets or purse. They are also inexpensive to buy on Amazon and don’t take up a lot of suitcase space if you decide not to use it.

33. Download Travel Apps

Smartphones make international travel substantially easier as you can download various apps before leaving home so you can hit the ground running.

Some types of apps you may consider downloading for these purposes:

• Offline Maps: Many consider Maps.me to be the best offline maps app and more user-friendly than Apple Maps or Google Maps. You may still try getting paper maps from a local tourism office or bookstore once you arrive though.
• Translation: A translator app for traveling can be pre-loaded with basic phrases with offline access. It may also be able to interpret voice recordings and photographs.
• Jet Lag: Flying to the other side of the world takes a toll on your body and sleep cycle. Timeshifter can help you conquer jet lag quicker while traveling and upon returning home.   

Downloading apps for your airline, hotel, and travel booking sites will help you access your digital reservation information and receive itinerary updates. Some travelers also enjoy downloading tourism apps like Tripadvisor or Yelp to quickly access ratings for attractions.

34. Get an International Sim Card or Phone Plan

Your stateside phone carrier may offer an international plan that you can upgrade to while you’re out of the country. Contract carriers and prepaid providers offer this overseas coverage.

Alternatively, an international sim card can be a budget-friendly and reliable option if you visit multiple countries. Just make sure your device is unlocked and GSM-compatible.  

35. Avoid Eating in Touristy Areas  

You’re likely to pay more and potentially get lower-quality food when eating in touristy areas. This isn’t always the case. For example, dining within sight of Rome’s Pantheon is an exception as there are well-rated restaurants for a memorable ambiance.

However, going a few streets over or to an adjacent community can be the ticket to finding authentic food. Asking your hotel or trustworthy locals can help you find a good spot in addition to researching places to eat online.

36. Lunch Can Be Cheaper than Supper

If you’re only planning on eating out one meal per day, your mid-day meal can be more affordable than in the evening. 

Depending on the restaurant, there can be separate menus for the bar and dining room. Staying in the bar can be more affordable and your meal options can be similar.

37. Use American Chains for Public Restrooms and Wifi

Finding a public bathroom can be challenging in foreign destinations. American restaurants like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Taco Bell are more likely to offer public access to restrooms and wifi, although you may need to make a small purchase.

38. Look for Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are common in popular tourist destinations both stateside and internationally. These tours can last a couple of hours and hit the cultural and historical points of interest. They can provide an idea of what you want to spend more time exploring later.  

While these tours don’t have an entry fee, nothing in life is genuinely 100% free ,and leaving a tip is expected in most situations. You may decide to tip more if the guide is knowledgeable and engaging.

39. A Paid Tour Can Be Better Than a Free Tour

You should also compare the free tours to private, guided tours. A paid tour can provide more hands-on support and access to more landmarks. 

In addition to researching the traditional tour providers, the experiences section in Airbnb can also provide curated opportunities to see the sights, enjoy culinary delights, or do physical activities like paddleboarding or folk dancing. 

Further Reading: Best Websites for Booking Cheap Tickets, Tours, & Activities

40. Look for Discounted Sightseeing Passes

Museums and entertainment attractions offer discounted and priority admission with sightseeing pass companies. So, instead of buying tickets directly from the tourist attractions you wish to visit, purchasing a city attraction card in advance can save money and means you won’t need to wait for hours (potentially) to buy a ticket at the door.

For domestic trips, CityPASS® offers discounted packages in approximately 15 major U.S. cities. Entertainment.com can also help you save on experiences in the United States and Canada.

If you’re flying to the “Eternal City” of Rome, Italy, the Roma Tourist Card is worth the upfront cost as you can enjoy these benefits:   

• Skip-the-line access at the Roman Colosseum
• Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
• Access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• Audio guides for the Pantheon and Rome
• Free return transfer to or from Rome’s international airports (Ciampino and Fiumicino)
• 10% discount on other attractions, museums, and tours

Depending on the program, you may need to book your pass weeks in advance.

41. Get an Interrail Pass for a Eurotrip

If you’re backpacking Europe or touring several countries, an Interrail Pass from Eurail can make it easier to finalize your transportation plan using an interactive map. This platform lets you visit up to 33 countries by rail with a single pass. 

42. Have a Flexible Travel Schedule

Mapping out an initial plan for each day can help you seize the day and optimize your time of playing tourist. Meanwhile, remaining flexible is pivotal as several variables can alter your itinerary such as:

• A change in the weather
• Accomplishing more than you originally scheduled 
• Making friends with other travelers and having dinner with them
• Realizing a planned activity isn’t as appealing once you arrive 

Another related suggestion is to get out and explore the city and the immediate area on your arrival date (time permitting) so you have a better idea of what to do the next day.

43. Wear Sunscreen Early and Often For Beach & Outdoor Trips

There is nothing worse than getting a bad sunburn at the beginning of a trip. Find a good facial sunscreen and buy a travel-sized container. Apply it to your face and neck a few times per day. For beach trips, either cover up with a hat and clothing or apply strong sunscreen to your body multiple times per day. While it may be annoying, it is much better than dealing with painful and peeling sunburn.

Sunscreen is usually marked up at typical tourist spots. If you check a bag, consider buying what you need before leaving and packing it.

44. Use an ATM Instead of a Currency Exchange Booth

Instead of heading directly to the currency exchange booth at the airport or train terminal, look for an ATM instead. Several should be in the public terminals or you can look for a local bank branch to find a secure location.

Why? ATMs provide better currency exchange ratios than the money exchange booth. Even if you pay foreign transaction fees and non-network ATM fees, you will most likely come out ahead financially speaking.

45. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

Many travel-focused credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , and The Platinum Card from American Express do not have foreign transaction fees. Use cards like those when traveling internationally to avoid potentially expensive fees.

46. Bring at Least One Backup Credit Card

Getting stuck on vacation with no access to money (besides cash) is not something you want to experience; Your main credit card could get lost or stolen. Carry at least one backup credit card (ideally with no foreign transaction fees if overseas) on all trips.

Phil Dengler’s Favorite Travel Tips

Here are a few of Phil’s favorite travel tips.

47. Be Very Flexible – Pick Your Travel Dates Based on the Cheapest Days to Fly

Flights are usually the most costly part of a vacation. I recommend using Google Flights calendar view to find the cheapest days to fly to and from your destination. After identifying those days, book your airfare. You must be flexible, but it can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars planning a vacation this way.

Further Reading: How to Find Cheap Flights and How to Use Google Flights

48. Book the Aisle and Window Seats When Traveling in Pairs

I always book the aisle and window seats when flying with my girlfriend or a friend. No one wants to sit in the middle seat, so people rarely select it. Doing this usually gives us the entire row to ourselves.

It does not work on full flights, however. The good news is people are usually willing to trade their middle seat. Simply offer them your aisle or window seat and you still get to sit next to your significant other or friend.

Further Reading: Can You (and Should You) Change Airplane Seats With Someone Else on a Flight?

49. Follow Proper Airline Etiquette

Knowing how to properly act on a plane can better your flying experience. See our following guides for more information.

• Airplane Seat Reclining Etiquette
• Overhead Bin Space Etiquette – Who Does it Belong To and How to Avoid Fights

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Taking the time to plan for a vacation, whether it’s the annual beach trip or you’re trying some new place, lets you practice these travel tips and not stress before or during your expedition. 

The best part is that you don’t need to be a travel pro to successfully implement these suggestions. If you’re a beginner, try adopting several more each time you leave home.

By Josh Patoka

Josh Patoka writes about maximizing travel rewards for The Vacationer. As well, he contributes to several personal finance sites specializing in making money, paying off debt, and investing.

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Tips to travel Iceland on a budget, plus travel expert-approved gear

Where to get local deals, take a dip in a hot spring and more.

Need some summer vacation ideas that won't break the bank? "Good Morning America" is off to Iceland and packing expert tips to help create the perfect travel bucket list on a budget.

From free dips in hot springs to the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall, ABC News' Ashan Singh explored the Nordic island nation and shared the top ways to enjoy every stop of the trip without overspending.

"Iceland is a tremendous deal from the Boston area in particular -- flights are only about five hours in each direction -- you could take just a long weekend there and still get an action-packed trip," Eric Rosen director of travel content for The Points Guy, told "GMA."

TPG has seen deals for as low as $400 and for travelers who don't care where they're seated on the plane, some fares drop as low as $230.

When it comes to hotels, Rosen offered another simple tip, spend now on credit cards from brands like Hilton or Marriott that, once the spending threshold is reached, offer large bonus points.

"Hilton cards for instance, offer anywhere from 130 to 180,000 points typically as part of their bonus," he said. "And that's going to be good enough for two maybe even three nights at some of these hotels in Reykjavik. And that could be your whole trip right there."

Iceland activities on a budget

Get a taste of the city's culture with the Reykjavík City Card, which gives visitors access to multiple museums, art galleries, pools and even bus transportation for free.

Enjoy going home with a fashionable souvenir? Local knits are quintessentially Iceland, but with handmade sweaters priced up to $500, Singh sought out second hand store, Extraloppan to score a sweater as low as $50.

Rent a car. Singh found deals for as low as $86 a day.

Save on a more extravagant meal by finding a deal through the Dineout Iceland app, which for a small fee offers discounts all over the land of fire and ice.

Looking for a cheap and quick local bite? Try a roadside hot dog for just $4.

Visit the free National Parks and take in sights like waterfalls and geysers, but Singh suggests skipping the Blue Lagoon, which can cost $350 for a family of four, instead opt for taking a dip in a local, free hot spring.

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REI Co-op Trailmade Pants - Men's

REI Co-op Trailmade Pants - Women's

Men's Trail Model 4 Hiking Shoes

Women's Trail Model 4 Hiking Shoes

Michael Josh Large Outdoor Picnic Blanket

CeraVe Hydrating Face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 for All Skin Types, 2.5 fl oz

Aveeno Baby Sensitive Skin Face & Body Gel Cream for Kids with Prebiotic Oat, Clinically Proven 24 Hour Hydration for Soft Skin, Quick Drying and Lightweight, Hypoallergenic, 8 oz

Trailmade Rain Jacket - Men's

Trailmade Rain Jacket - Women's

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter One International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor with 5.6A Smart Power and 3.0A USB Type-C for USA EU UK AUS (TA-105, Grey)

Action Camera 4K 20MP Sport Camera 40M Waterproof Underwater Camera Volg Video Camera WIFI Wide Angle Helmet Camera EIS Stabilization Dual Microphone

Anker Nano Power Bank with Built-in Foldable USB-C Connector

4Monster Camping Towels Super Absorbent

Vapur Flexible, Collapsible Wide Mouth Anti-Bottle with Detachable Carabiner

KNIT CUFFED BEANIE

THE NORTH FACE Apex Insulated Etip Glove - Men's

• $39.18 to $41.51

Indoor Instant Privacy Bed Tent for Sleeping,Quick Set-up Bed Canopies,Portable Bed Drapes with Large Space and 3 Doors (Black, Twin)

Manta Sleep Mask - 100% Light Blocking Eye Mask, Zero Eye Pressure, Comfortable & Adjustable Sleeping Mask for Women Men, Perfect Blindfold for Sleep/Travel/Nap/Shift Work

[Weighted Sleep Mask

Lonely Planet Iceland (Travel Guide)

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Tips to travel Iceland on a budget, plus travel expert-approved gear

Need some summer vacation ideas that won't break the bank? "Good Morning America" is off to Iceland and packing expert tips to help create the perfect travel bucket list on a budget.

From free dips in hot springs to the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall, ABC News' Ashan Singh explored the Nordic island nation and shared the top ways to enjoy every stop of the trip without overspending.

"Iceland is a tremendous deal from the Boston area in particular -- flights are only about five hours in each direction -- you could take just a long weekend there and still get an action-packed trip," Eric Rosen director of travel content for The Points Guy, told "GMA."

TPG has seen deals for as low as $400 and for travelers who don't care where they're seated on the plane, some fares drop as low as $230.

When it comes to hotels, Rosen offered another simple tip, spend now on credit cards from brands like Hilton or Marriott that, once the spending threshold is reached, offer large bonus points.

"Hilton cards for instance, offer anywhere from 130 to 180,000 points typically as part of their bonus," he said. "And that's going to be good enough for two maybe even three nights at some of these hotels in Reykjavik. And that could be your whole trip right there."

Iceland activities on a budget

Get a taste of the city's culture with the Reykjavík City Card, which gives visitors access to multiple museums, art galleries, pools and even bus transportation for free.

Enjoy going home with a fashionable souvenir? Local knits are quintessentially Iceland, but with handmade sweaters priced up to $500, Singh sought out second hand store, Extraloppan to score a sweater as low as $50.

Rent a car. Singh found deals for as low as $86 a day.

Save on a more extravagant meal by finding a deal through the Dineout Iceland app, which for a small fee offers discounts all over the land of fire and ice.

Looking for a cheap and quick local bite? Try a roadside hot dog for just $4.

Visit the free National Parks and take in sights like waterfalls and geysers, but Singh suggests skipping the Blue Lagoon, which can cost $350 for a family of four, instead opt for taking a dip in a local, free hot spring.

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Expert recommended travel gear

REI Co-op Trailmade Pants - Men's

REI Co-op Trailmade Pants - Women's

Men's Trail Model 4 Hiking Shoes

Women's Trail Model 4 Hiking Shoes

Michael Josh Large Outdoor Picnic Blanket

CeraVe Hydrating Face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 for All Skin Types, 2.5 fl oz

Aveeno Baby Sensitive Skin Face & Body Gel Cream for Kids with Prebiotic Oat, Clinically Proven 24 Hour Hydration for Soft Skin, Quick Drying and Lightweight, Hypoallergenic, 8 oz

Trailmade Rain Jacket - Men's

Trailmade Rain Jacket - Women's

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter One International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor with 5.6A Smart Power and 3.0A USB Type-C for USA EU UK AUS (TA-105, Grey)

Action Camera 4K 20MP Sport Camera 40M Waterproof Underwater Camera Volg Video Camera WIFI Wide Angle Helmet Camera EIS Stabilization Dual Microphone

Anker Nano Power Bank with Built-in Foldable USB-C Connector

4Monster Camping Towels Super Absorbent

Vapur Flexible, Collapsible Wide Mouth Anti-Bottle with Detachable Carabiner

KNIT CUFFED BEANIE

THE NORTH FACE Apex Insulated Etip Glove - Men's

• $39.18 to $41.51

Indoor Instant Privacy Bed Tent for Sleeping,Quick Set-up Bed Canopies,Portable Bed Drapes with Large Space and 3 Doors (Black, Twin)

Manta Sleep Mask - 100% Light Blocking Eye Mask, Zero Eye Pressure, Comfortable & Adjustable Sleeping Mask for Women Men, Perfect Blindfold for Sleep/Travel/Nap/Shift Work

[Weighted Sleep Mask

Lonely Planet Iceland (Travel Guide)

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The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

These travel cubes will keep your suitcase in order, whether you’re going on a short getaway or a round-the-world adventure.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or planning an around-the-world adventure, packing cubes can help streamline the packing process. Packing cubes are bags that come in different sizes in a set. They can help organize clothing and save room in your suitcase. Frequent traveler Kayli King uses packing bags daily to keep clothes organized in her van while traveling. “Honestly, after traveling so long, I can’t imagine not using them,” she says.  

After talking to King, we compared packing bags, looking for durable travel cubes with functional designs and a wide variety of sizes. Our top overall pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. Compression zippers, handles, and a low price tag make this set the best all around.

Our picks for the best packing cubes for travel

The best packing cubes for travel, best overall: gonex compression packing cubes.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our choice for the best overall packing cubes. Despite being one of the more affordable travel cube sets on this list, these compression bags have plenty of features, including ripstop nylon, reinforced seams, and handles. They compress via double zippers that pull the edges of the travel packing bag together. The packing cubes can hold everything from socks to jackets and are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. They’re also available in over 10 colors.

Keep in mind:   These packing cubes unzip only halfway, so you have to stuff your clothes inside rather than lay them flat. Some reviewers note that the compression zippers are difficult for people with arthritis or reduced mobility.

Product details: Size: 4-piece set: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), and 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon | Weight: 12 ounces (set)  

Best for traveling light: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set  

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: At 4.2 ounces, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is half the weight of other packing cubes on this list, but they’re far from flimsy. They’re made of ripstop polyester and have “self-repairing” zippers—if a gap opens in the chain, you can slide one of the zippers over it to close it. Eagle Creek also offers a warranty that covers fabric tears and zippers. Because they’re lightweight and sturdy, these travel cubes are great for hikers and campers who want to organize their backpacks.  

Keep in mind: The set includes only three smaller-sized travel cubes. While great for backpacks and carry-ons, you may want bigger packing cubes for checked luggage.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches (extra small), 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches (small), and 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches (medium) | Material:   Ripstop polyester | Weight:   4.2 ounces (set)  

Best for overpackers: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it:   The packing cubes in the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set are the opposite of compression bags. Each cube has a second zipper that, when unzipped, increases its width to six inches—double the size of other packing bags on this list. They’re designed to last with ripstop polyester treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. The packing cubes also meet the Bluesign criteria, the highest environmental standard for sustainable textile manufacturing.

Keep in mind:   REI Co-op recently updated its packing cubes, and some buyers believe the quality has suffered as a result. Third-party reviews mention thin material, unreinforced zippers, and mesh that snags.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 8 x 6 x 3 inches (small), 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium), and 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon, polyester mesh | Weight: 8.3 ounce (set)  

Best upcycled option: Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle

Why we like it:   The brightly colored Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle is an upcycled option you can feel good about. The packing bags are made of 100-percent repurposed nylon and mesh. Kayli King likes that the mesh panels allow your things to air out and that you can hang them up by their handles.

Cotopaxi’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond its packing cubes. The company says that 94 percent of its products use repurposed, recycled, or responsible materials. They also offer programs to repair items and trade them in to avoid landfills.

Keep in mind:   Despite its competitive price, this bundle comes with only three packing cubes. The size range is small compared to other packing cube sets. However, King prefers this set for longer trips.

Product details: Size: 3-piece set: 7 x 8 x 2 inches (2-liter bag), 6 x 11.5 x 3 inches (3-liter bag), 10 x 11.5 x 5 inches (10-liter bag) | Material:   100 percent repurposed nylon and mesh | Weight: 9 ounces (set)

Best style: Calpak Packing Cubes Set

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   While many packing cubes seem to favor function over fashion, the Calpak Packing Cubes Set balances both. The packing bags come in over 20 colors, with patterns like “cheetah” and “lime viper.” They’re durable, with thick polyester sides and mesh covers that let you see inside. Each packing cube has a zippered pocket for smaller essentials and an ID tag to write down the contents. If five travel cubes aren’t enough, you can buy additional Calpak travel organizers, like shoe bags and laptop totes.

Keep in mind:   The Calpak Packing Cube set is by far the heaviest and most expensive option on this list. You may want lighter packing cubes if you travel with just a carry-on or are concerned about overweight luggage.

Product details: Size:   5-piece set: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small x 2), 5 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester and mesh | Weight: 1 pound, 12.8 ounces (set)  

Best set: Tripped Checked Bag Set

Why we like it:   The Tripped Checked Bag Set has a travel cube for almost every packing need. The set includes seven packing bags, including two extra large sizes, a slim cube, a shoe bag, and a roll-top laundry bag. Mix and match the travel cubes to fit your suitcase and packing needs. Most of the packing cubes in the Checked Bag Set also have a compression feature. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and an illustrated set featuring national parks.  

Keep in mind:   While the packing cubes are made from a ripstop blend, reviewers mention that the material and stitching feel thin and flimsy. Some of the travel cubes don’t unzip all the way, making packing more difficult.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 12.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches (shoe bag), 12.5 x 4.5 x 3 inches (slim cube), 21 x 11.5 x 0.1 inches (laundry bag), 10 x 7 x 4 inches (small), 14 x 10 x 4 inches (large), 16 x 12 x 4 inches (extra large x 2) | Material:   Ripstop nylon-polyester blend | Weight:   15.5 ounces (set)  

Best budget: Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

Why we like it: The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes come with six packing cubes, including a laundry bag and a shoe bag. They cost less than half the price of most other packing bag sets on this list. The low price doesn’t mean low quality, though. The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are made of thick polyester, with sturdy zippers and mesh panels to help keep clothes fresh. Plus, they come in 12 colors.  

Keep in mind: The laundry and shoe bags are small. The polyester is not ripstop and can melt if dried on high heat.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 4.7 x 17 inches (shoe bag), 14 x 20 inches (laundry bag), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 17.5 x 12.15 x 5 inches (extra large) | Material:   Polyester | Weight:   10.4 ounces (set)  

How we chose the best travel packing cubes

We weighed the following qualities when curating the best packing cubes:

Third-party reviews:   We considered reviews from sources other than company websites and spoke with seasoned travelers to find out what they liked.  

Brand reputation: Anything you use for traveling should be functional, long-lasting, and, preferably, good for the planet. We looked for brands that value high-quality gear and sustainability.

Quality of material:   We chose travel cubes that were made to last, with durable materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, reinforced seams, and strong zippers.

Size range: Different-sized packing bags make for an easier packing experience. We chose packing cube sets in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

Compression options: Some packing cube brands offer compression bags, which can be a nice feature if you’re tight on space.  

Tips for buying packing bags

Here’s what to consider when picking your own packing cubes:

Brand reputation  

Choose a trusted brand with a proven reputation. Brands with zipper and fabric warranties or repair programs will also help you get as many vacations as possible with your travel organizers.

If you only use carry-ons or smaller luggage, choose a packing cube set with fewer, smaller travel cubes. If you prefer to use checked luggage, go for a packing cube set with more travel cubes and bigger sizes.  

If you travel with just a carry-on or want to use packing cubes for hiking, choose an ultralight packing cube set. Every ounce counts when packing light, and some travel cube sets are nearly 1.5 pounds lighter than others.

Packing cubes are typically made of polyester or nylon, both strong synthetic fabrics. If you need something even more durable, look for ripstop nylon or polyester, which has extra threads to prevent tears from becoming bigger.

Some brands offer compression bags, which can save space. However, King finds that compressed bags can be awkwardly shaped, making them harder to fit together in your suitcase. If you are a heavy packer, travel cubes for shoes or laundry can help keep the rest of your luggage clean.

Frequently asked questions

Are packing cubes worth it?

Packing cubes can help save space in your suitcase and improve organization, reducing stress while traveling.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

Packing cubes are TSA-approved, provided everything inside is within the regulations. Check with your airline on what is allowed in carry-on and checked bags.

How many packing cubes do you need for a suitcase?

How many packing cubes you need depends on the length of your trip and the size of your suitcase. Four to six packing cubes is a great starting point. You can adjust the number as needed.

How much does a packing cube cost?

The packing cube sets recommended here cost between 20 and 70 dollars. Some companies may sell individual packing cubes for less.

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9 ways to save on your next family vacation

Editor's Note

Traveling with a family comes with some unavoidable expenses, whether you're paying frfor airfare, food or activities. There are more people to cover, which drives up the cost no matter where you go, when you travel or what you do.

If you are strategic about planning and booking travel, you can have a great vacation and more money in your pocket.

Here are our top tips for saving money on family vacations .

Create a vacation fund in your savings account

Even if you have a stash of points and miles to pay for your trip, there will inevitably be something (like souvenirs and tips) that you'll need additional money for. A vacation fund can come in handy when these situations arise.

Having a vacation fund in your savings account ensures you have plenty of money at the ready whenever you are traveling. You can automatically transfer money into the account every week and watch your funds incrementally accrue until you are ready to use them.

Then, when the time comes to pay credit card bills, you can use money from your vacation fund to cover purchases made while traveling. This helps keep your fun money separate from your day-to-day money and saves you from drastically altering your normal spending habits at home to prepare for a trip.

Related: Real-world family travel tips that actually work

Choose a hotel with free breakfast or other complimentary meals

A hotel with a complimentary breakfast can help you get more than just a free meal. That's because you can also take time at the breakfast spread to grab a few yogurts, granola bars and pieces of fruit to snack on throughout the day.

Also, hotels offering free breakfast, like Marriott's SpringHill Suites , tend to offer larger guest rooms that accommodate more people — all for lower nightly rates than their luxury counterparts.

While not all hotels offer free breakfast to everyone in your room, some may provide complimentary meals for kids. For example, kids 11 and younger eat free at all Holiday Inn hotels . Several properties, including the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo , offer complimentary meals for children younger than 5.

All-inclusive resorts that cover food and drinks in room rates are also growing in popularity; be sure to consider these types of properties when researching lodging, especially in places where they're prevalent, such as the Caribbean and Mexico .

Book a vacation home and cook

One great way to explore a new destination with your family is to rent an apartment or house in a neighborhood rather than a busy downtown area. By doing this, you can get a ton of space for your family to run around, plus multiple bedrooms and a kitchen.

While renting a vacation home can sometimes be as expensive as staying in a hotel, you can help offset the cost by cooking your own meals instead of eating out.

There are also ways to earn or redeem loyalty points on home rentals , such as with Vrbo's One Key program or Homes and Villas by Marriott .

Before confirming a stay, ask the host for the nearest market or grocery store, and make that your first stop after you arrive.

You can still treat yourselves to a few meals out here and there, but this allows you to trim your vacation food costs.

Related: When a vacation rental makes more sense than a hotel

Skip checking a bag — or choose your flights carefully when you need to

It is possible to stay on Team Carry-On , even when traveling as a family. Checking a bag as a family can mean spending $100 or more each way — or at least $30 per person — when flying, depending on how big your clan is.

You can use packing cubes for each member of your family to squeeze as much as possible into your carry-on bags. This helps keep your clothes compact and organized no matter where you go or how long you're away from home.

Related: Tips to avoid overpacking

Before any trip, make sure you have everything you need by doing the following:

• Pack one person at a time to avoid mixing up items or forgetting something.
• Focus on packing outfits, not individual items. Roll each outfit together as tightly as possible so no items are missing from an outfit when you grab it to wear.
• Exclude any items that will not fit in a packing cube to avoid taking up too much valuable space in a suitcase.
• Place toiletries in packing cubes next to shoes, and place these items in the side of the suitcase that zips up so you don't lose track of bathroom essentials.
• Strategically store travel necessities — such as electronics, snacks, toys and extra clothes — in backpacks so they're easy to grab throughout the journey to and from your chosen destination.

If you need to check one or more bags, know there are a few ways around paying baggage fees . Consider flying Southwest Airlines , a carrier that allows each passenger to check up to two bags for free . Or, fly in a premium cabin of a carrier that includes at least one checked bag per person in the cost of tickets.

Another way to get a free checked bag is to pay for flights with certain cobranded airline credit cards like the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card . Both offer a free checked bag as a perk.

Related: These credit cards can get you free checked bags

Never pay full price for a rental car

Renting a car can add hundreds of dollars per week to your vacation budget, but a few tips and tricks can help you save money.

For example, you may be eligible to use a corporate code from your job or university to save money on your next car rental. Check your corporate or alumni travel site or student benefits page for rental company discounts.

AAA members are often also eligible for rental car discounts; one of the most significant discounts is the ability to save up to 20% on all Hertz rentals with the AAA discount code. Discounts are also available for USAA members who are active military personnel, veterans or the spouse or child of an active military member or veteran.

Related: Save money on your next trip! Use these tips to never pay full price for a rental car

Certain cards can also help you spend less on a rental car, including The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . The Amex Platinum offers discounted rates, automatic upgrades and bonus loyalty points when you rent through Hertz, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers discounts through both Avis and National.

Consider bringing your own car seats from home to cut car rental costs even more. Renting car seats can increase the cost of a car rental by upward of $30 per seat per day. Those savings can help cover other vacation expenses like food and activities.

It's also worth considering whether you actually need a rental car. If you are staying at a theme park, all-inclusive resort or other destination where you will pretty much stay put once you arrive, you may spend less by using a ride-hailing service to get to and from the airport rather than paying for a car you won't really use.

Related: Feeling the pain of record-high gas prices? Here's how to save money and earn rewards on gas purchases

Go where the cheap flights take you

If you are looking for cheap airfare , consider throwing caution to the wind and choosing a destination based on flight prices (rather than searching for flights after you've decided where to go). This is easy to do using Google Flights . Once you have a rough idea of your travel dates, you can enter those dates and your city of origin into the Google Flights search tool.

Related: Key tools and tips to find the cheapest airfare

You'll see a world map detailing flight prices to several major cities. You can scroll through the map and zoom in on different areas to help you focus on your perfectly priced destination. If your dates are flexible, you can also click on the date grid or price graph to see overall trends for pricing to your chosen vacation spot.

Book at the right time

There is a sweet spot when pricing out hotel stays and airline tickets. If you are looking for the best flight prices , there are a few guidelines to follow:

• Flights during spring break, the peak of summer and the holiday season are often much more expensive than other times of the year.
• For domestic flights, start monitoring prices three to four months in advance and book one to two months in advance.
• For international flights, you should start monitoring six to seven months prior to the trip and book it three to five months in advance.
• Flying midweek is generally cheaper than flying on the weekend.
• Continue to monitor fares even after you book, as several airlines will let you reprice your flight if the cost goes down .

If you are wondering when you should book your hotel room for the best price , these tips should help:

• Don't fall for prepaid discounts. Instead, book a refundable rate so you can cancel your reservation with no penalty and rebook if the rate goes down.
• Check in and out midweek instead of on a Friday or Saturday to save money.
• Sometimes, it pays to wait until the last minute. Hotel rates do tend to drop about two weeks before check-in, based on availability.

Related: It's time to book your summer trips now — here's why

Use points or miles to cover some expenses

In addition to the above tips, you can significantly cut your out-of-pocket expenses by cashing in points and miles.

Even if you don't have all the points you need to cover an entire expense like airfare for four people, you can book two tickets with points and use cash for the other two, or you can utilize an airline like Southwest that lets you pay for your tickets with cash and points .

You can do the same thing with hotel stays by paying for what you can with points and using cash to cover any remaining nights.

If points and miles are not an option, turn to a credit card in your wallet. Cards like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card make it easy to redeem your miles for travel-related expenses from your statement to save cash on items you can't always buy with points, such as theme park tickets.

Related: The best travel credit cards

Bottom line

When planning a family vacation on a budget, you need to look at every possible angle for savings. It's sometimes impossible to abide by all of these tips when you travel. However, if you can follow at least one, you're bound to save money the next time you and your family go on vacation.

Related reading:

• 7 family-friendly beach resorts you can book with points
• Your guide to flying with kids of every age
• Get up and go: These are the best family vacations to take with kids at every age
• Best credit cards for hotel stays