Here is a packing list for a holiday abroad, categorised for easy reference. You can adapt this based on your destination, the length of your trip, and the type of holiday (e.g., beach, city break, adventure).
Documents & Money
- Passport / Visa: Check validity and visa requirements well in advance
- Travel Tickets: Print or have them accessible on your phone (flights, train, etc.)
- Hotel/Accommodation Confirmation: Print or have accessible
- Driving Licence: If you plan to drive
- Travel Insurance Documents: Policy number and emergency contact info
- Foreign Currency & Credit/Debit Cards: Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid card blocks
- Emergency Contact Information: Write down key numbers (family, friends, embassy)
Clothing
- Tops: T-shirts, vest tops, blouses, long-sleeved shirts
- Bottoms: Shorts, trousers, skirts, jeans
- Dresses: For evening or day wear
- Outerwear: Jacket, cardigan, or a light hoodie
- Swimwear: At least two swimsuits if you plan to swim often
- Underwear: Enough for the duration of your trip, plus a few extra
- Socks: For each day, plus a couple of spares
- Pyjamas or sleepwear
- Formal/Smart Attire: If you plan on a special dinner or event
- Workout Clothes: If you plan to use a gym
Footwear
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: For sightseeing
- Sandals or Flip-flops: For the beach or casual wear
- Smart Shoes: If you have formal plans
- Water Shoes: If doing water activities
Toiletries & Health
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shampoo & Conditioner: Consider solid bars or travel-size bottles
- Soap or Body Wash
- Sun Cream
- After-sun lotion
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturiser & Face Wash
- Hairbrush/Comb & Hair ties
- Personal Hygiene Products: Tampons, sanitary towels, etc.
- Small First-Aid Kit:
- Painkillers (e.g., Paracetamol, Ibuprofen)
- Antiseptic wipes
- Plasters
- Diarrhoea medication
- Any personal prescription medications (bring enough for the trip and keep them in their original packaging)
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitiser
Electronics
- Phone & Charger
- Portable Power Bank
- Travel Adaptor/Converter: Research the socket type in your destination
- Camera & Memory Card: And charger
- Headphones
- Tablet/E-reader: And charger
Miscellaneous
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
- Small Backpack or Day Bag: For carrying essentials during the day
- Travel Pillow: For comfort on long flights/journeys
- Eye Mask & Earplugs
- Small Umbrella or Rain Jacket
- Tote Bag: For shopping or groceries
- Book, Journal, or Deck of Cards
- Snacks: Especially for the journey
- Sewing Kit (Small)
- Duct Tape (A small, wrapped amount can be surprisingly useful)
Want advice on the best things to pack for your holiday? Contact us to plan your next holiday.