Your Ultimate International Travel Packing List for a Stress-Free Trip (Plus, What to Bring and Helpful Packing Tips)

You booked your flight (and even saved money in the process). You scored the cutest Airbnb or 5-star hotel stay. Now it’s time to pack—oh, crap. What on earth do you bring when you’re traveling outside the U.S.? Sound familiar? Same. Last month, I found myself on a last-minute trip to London…and by last-minute, I mean I flew home from another state the day before my flight out of LAX and packed hours before boarding. (In case you’re wondering, yes, I think I can see some gray hairs from that frightful day.) If you’re a seasoned jetsetter, it probably doesn’t seem like there’s much of a difference from a domestic vacay (aside from that whole passport thing). But if you’ve never traveled internationally, you might feel stressed when traveling with all the specific rules and regulations. That’s where this international travel packing list comes in.

Stuffing your entire life into a stowed bag, figuring out what to pack in a carry-on and remembering to bring a personal item for a long trip can be daunting (what if you forget lip balm?!), but it doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing. When you’re prepared, know what to expect and what things to pack for vacation, those panic attacks at the check-in counter will become a thing of the past.

I like to think of packing in four distinct steps. Once you break your list into organized segments, packing is suddenly way more manageable. Here’s how I do it:

1. Checked luggage
2. Carry On
3. Personal item (including toiletries, entertainment, legal documents and medications)
4. The airport outfit

During my trip to London last month, it wasn’t until I sat in my aircraft seat with a glass of Champagne in my hand when I finally had a second to breathe and realize how unprepared I was during the packing process. Lucky for me, I didn’t have the I FORGOT MY WALLET moment (which has happened before), but an extensive checklist to keep me quite literally in check could have saved me hours of packing and a good night’s rest. Below, I’ve listed out a few must-have items you’ll likely need or want to pack for your international travel, and I even sectioned them out into six major categories for a stress-free process.

• Documents and identifications
• Toiletries
• Electronics
• Clothing and accessories
• Medications
• Miscellaneous items

• Valid passport (be sure to read up on the six-month rule; some countries don’t accept passports that expire within six months of travel)
• Cash/debit card/credit cards
• Travel documents
• Boarding pass/ticket
• Insurance cards/documents
• Global Entry
• Reservations and itineraries
• Hotel information
• Transportation tickets
• Emergency contacts and important addresses
• Copies of all these things in case you lose your wallet
• Any other documents (U.S. military ID, visas, birth certificate, etc.)

• Deodorant
• Face wash
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Mouthwash
• Floss
• Sunscreen
• Moisturizers
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Body wash
• Razor
• Shaving cream
• Lotion
• Hairbrush
• Hair ties
• Lip balm
• Contact lenses
• Tweezers
• Eye cream
• Makeup
• Sunscreen
• Nail clippers
• Hand sanitizer
• Makeup remover
• Styling products

• Hat
• Sweater
• Lightweight jacket
• Shoes
• Jeans
• Dress
• Tank tops
• T-shirts
• Blouses
• Skirt
• Socks
• Pajamas
• Shorts
• Swimsuits
• Undergarments
• Jewelry
• Athleisure/workout clothes
• Scarf/wrap
• Belt

• Tablets
• Phone
• Headphones
• Laptop
• Cameras
• Portable charger power bank
• SD cards
• Adapters

• Prescriptions 
• Painkillers
• Fever relievers
• Antacid
• Antihistamine
• Decongestants
• Cough drops
• Cough suppressant
• Expectorant
• Diarrhea medicine
• Laxatives
• Sleep aids
• Dramamine
• Supplements
• Necessary medical devices and supplies (EpiPens, insulin, inhaler, medical bracelet) 

• Travel pillow
• Blanket
• Books
• Snacks
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Travel sewing kit
• First-aid kit
• Safety equipment
• Ear plugs
• Disinfectant wipes
• Packing cubes
• Reusable water bottle (empty)
• Compact umbrella
• Sunglasses
• AirTags
• Laundry detergent
• Waterproof bag
• Laundry bag
• Playing cards

This is the big one (obviously). If you’re traveling for longer than a week without access to a washing machine (or just don’t want to deal—that’s why you’re on vacation, right?), you’re going to want to pack every single thing you need in checked luggage. The length, width and height restrictions of the bag may vary by airline, but the majority of aircrafts, including United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, allow bags that measure 30 inches by 20 inches by 12 inches maximum for domestic flights or 27 inches by 21 inches by 14 inches for international flights, including the wheels and handles.

Again, you’ll want to read through the rules and restrictions for the airline you’re flying, and don’t forget to take into account any weight limits. Nearly all checked bags are limited to a weight of 50 pounds or less, and many airlines charge extra fees for additional bags, overweight or oversize bags. Remember, your airline status can come with perks, like an extra bag at no cost.

• Sweater, sweatshirt or a light jacket: limit it to one if you can, as these items are bulky and can take up unnecessary space
• Base layers: T-shirts, tank tops and camisoles are super lightweight, thin and incredibly versatile, so pack a few that you can mix and match
• Bottoms: Trousers, jeans, shorts and skirts are necessary, but can get heavy in a flash. Stick to two or three that you can create different outfits with if you mix and match blouses or jackets.
• Multifunctional dresses: I’m all about a versatile dress that can go from day to night with a swap of accessories, shoes and layering pieces. If you’re going somewhere tropical, ask yourself this: Can you wear it as a beach cover-up and out to dinner? On the flip side, if you’re headed to a land-locked destination, make sure it can carry you from brunch to late night drinks on the town.
• Socks: You’ll likely only need one pair for each day, but I always like to pack a few extra for good measure.
• Undergarments: The same rule applies here—one per day plus a few extras, or less if you’ll have easy access to a washer and dryer.
• Shoes: Always, always, always bring a pair of comfortable sneakers you can walk all day or dance all night in. Word has it that the Adidas Sambas can go the extra mile (literally) with nary a blister in sight. If you have more room for superfluous shoes, that’s when you can throw in workout sneakers, heels, flats or sandals.
• PJs: Need I say more?
• Jewelry: Don’t bring your entire collection, just the pieces you’ll wear every day, and only throw the inexpensive pieces in your suitcase. Always wear or store your expensive jewels and designer pieces in your carry-on or personal item.
• Hat: Especially if you’re headed someplace tropical, a wide-brim hat, baseball cap or dad cap might come in handy. To keep its shape, stuff the head with socks and use your clothes as a way to protect the brim.
• Laundry bag: If you’re the type of person who can’t stand to fold your dirty laundry with your clean items, then you’ll want a laundry bag to maintain your sanity and cleanliness. Similarly, for those that stay in the pool up until the last minute of the trip, a wet and dry bag is always a great idea to store your soaked bathing suit.
• Toiletries and makeup: Especially those larger liquids that can’t go in your carry-on. After a few moisturizer and toothpaste explosions, I’ve learned to store liquids in plastic bags. (It prevents a mess from happening from the occasional explosion.)

• Figure out what packing method works best for you: Some of us are avid rollers, while others subscribe to the “fold it or bust” packing technique. The verdict? Do whatever fits the most in your suitcase (without incurring overweight fees, of course). Rolling clothing is said to cut down on creases and wrinkles, which is especially helpful for satin and silk items. But sturdier pieces, like jeans, might actually take up more room when rolled, as opposed to folded flat and stacked. Some PureWow editors are also obsessed with packing cubes and travel organizers, i.e., the best way to compartmentalize your items if you want to know exactly where everything is without rifling through your whole suitcase.
• Use every inch of everything as extra storage: If you are packing multiple pairs of shoes or multiple handbags, just make sure you’re using them smartly by utilizing the space inside for storage, too. I like to pack socks, belts, jewelry bags and even toiletries that you don’t need in-flight into the cavity of each shoe and handbag, kind of like an innovative, DIY packing cube.
• Plan your outfits ahead of time: This will ensure that you’re bringing multi-functional pieces. If one pair of heels is taking up a lot of real estate, but you’re only going to wear them with one outfit, it might be smart to leave them at home and sub in some other, more versatile footwear. It’s a lesson in strategy, for sure. If you want to be extra organized, take a picture of each outfit and store the images in your Notes app with the corresponding day you’ll wear them. This will save you from tearing apart your suitcase when you arrive at your hotel.

If you’re traveling with only a carry-on bag, the space can quickly get a bit tight. For many domestic flights across the majority of airlines, a carry-on bag should not exceed 22 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. You’ll want to double-check with your airline, as some might have specific measurements that differ than the average. Stricter rules and regulations may apply if you’re flying internationally, too. Some airlines require that all carry-ons to remain under 21 inches in height, and there might be additional weight restrictions, too. Royce & Rocket, Bagsmart, Away and Béis are just a few PureWow editor-tested and -approved carry-ons that my colleagues swear by.

• Over-the-counter medication (Think: Advil/Tylenol, Immodium, Pepto-Bismol, Dramamine, Benadryl)
• First aid kit (including Band-Aids, alcohol pads, bacitracin)
• Headphones
• Reusable water bottle (empty)
• Electronics (camera, laptop, chargers, etc., see the electronics list above)
• Travel documents (passport, ID, insurance)
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• A change of clothes (because lost luggage does happen)
• Snacks
• Cash
• Eye masks
• Antibacterial wipes
• Travel pillow
• Deck of cards
• Pen
• Feminine toiletries
• Thick socks
• Wrap, scarf or sweater
• Lubricating eye drops
• Lip mask
• Deodorant
• Extra contacts and contact solution
• Face mist (it’s dry up there!)
• Hand sanitizer
• Cologne/perfume
• Glasses

It’s not unheard of to pack a single carry-on for an international trip. I just did it for my three days in England, and it’s the way to go if you’re jetting around to a number of different countries (Euro trip, anyone?). Plus, there’s no way the airline can lose your luggage if it’s safely tucked into an overhead compartment, right? If you don’t know how to travel with a carry-on only and plan to use as your only piece of luggage, the above checked-luggage packing tips and essentials still apply, you just have to be even more conscious of space as you’ll have to fit all your clothing and all your in-flight essentials (yep, and TSA-restricted liquids).

Below, I’ve listed out some methods that may save you space in your carry-on.

• Figure out what packing method works best for you: Like I previously mentioned, the rolling method is great for those lightweight, thin clothes, especially tank tops, T-shirts and silk skirts. If you plan on bringing jeans and a heavy jacket, it’s better to wear those on the plane to keep your carry-on bag from feeling too heavy.
• Plan your outfits ahead of time: Just like in your checked bag, you’ll want to make sure that you’re not packing any unnecessary items. Trust me, you’ll appreciate having that extra space to fit airplane snacks or bring home trinkets, and the lighter it is, the easier it’ll be to lift it into the overhead bin.
• Pack complementary clothes: Pack smart and opt for clothes that can be mixed and matched every day, that way you don’t have to pack a million and one pieces.
• Use compression bags or packing cubes: Not only will the cubes keep everything organized and tidy, but they’ll also help to compress everything down. Psst…that means more space.
• Pack socks inside shoes: Don’t let that extra space go unused. Your socks are going to be living in your shoes when you wear ‘em anyway, so why not store them in there for the trip?
• Narrow down your toiletries: TSA’s 3.4 oz liquid limit is internationally mandated, so if you’re using a carry-on as your only luggage, you’ll have to leave the full-size toiletries at home. However, that doesn’t mean you have to blow your souvenir fund on travel-size items. I love leak-proof reusable containers that fit a small amount of your everyday products, and packing palettes that resemble pill organizers, that can fit multiple products in one convenient carrier. If you’re staying at a hotel with ample amenities (this can also include an Airbnb or a friend’s house; just check ahead of time), then you can most likely leave shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion at home. But I highly suggest bringing along your skincare routine so as to not throw your complexion out of whack while traveling. Even so, try bringing only the absolute necessities—this goes for makeup, too. (Yes, that means the oil you always forget to use can stay at home.) Cue the French girl no-makeup look ladies.

As with many of the restrictions and requirements I covered above, personal item specifications will vary by airlines, but many airlines will allow you one personal item (purses, bags, totes and backpacks) as long as it doesn’t exceed 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. Unlike bigger carry-on luggage that you’ll store in the overhead bins, small personal items must fit it underneath the seat in front of you. What’s more, some airlines might place weight restrictions on personal bags, from 10 to 25 pounds, so double-check with your airline before you fill it to the brim with hardcover novels (aka, one of the things you should never pack for traveling).

• Legal documents: We all know that a valid passport is our ticket to another country, but there are other documents you should always bring. For example, do you need a visa to travel to the country you’re visiting? Or are there medical documents you might need in case of emergency? There are also steps you can take to ensure your credit cards don’t get frozen for “suspicious activity outside the U.S.” Important: These documents should always get stashed in your carry-on or personal item for easy access at any time and less risk of being lost with luggage. Also, you’re going to want to make photocopies of all your legal documents to prevent total mayhem if they’re lost or stolen, and consider emailing a copy of those papers to a close family member or friend as backup.
• Passport, visa and REAL ID: For starters, ensure that your passport is valid before traveling. If haven’t heard of the six-month passport rule, then you might want to listen up because it nearly had me cancelling my trip a month ago. Many countries require all international passports to be valid within at least six months of entry or departure. Some countries are more lenient, requiring only a three-month expiration period, whereas other countries like Mexico simply requires a valid passport, period. You don’t want to get stuck abroad with an expired passport (although that’s what the U.S. Embassy or Consulate is for, if it happens). It takes about six to 12 weeks to get a new passport, so you should apply for one at least three months before the expiration date on your current documents. Since you don’t want to keep your passport on you while out and about abroad (more chances for it to get lost or stolen), make sure to bring your personal ID. Have a student ID? Take that too, as many museums and stores offer student discounts. Make sure to keep a copy of your passport in your email or on your phone, also in case of emergency. Next, you’ll have to determine if you need a visa to travel to the country you’re visiting. Not sure? Here’s an easy list to check. Keep in mind that the visa process can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, so you’ll want to get the ball rolling as soon as your flights are booked.
• Credit and debit cards: Now that most credit cards have a chip, they can be used whenever and wherever your heart desires. Double-check whether or not your card(s) incur foreign transaction fees—if they do, you’ll have to keep those in mind with every purchase you make. I like to bring my credit cards for actual purchases (because, points) and my debit card for taking cash out of ATMs. Hot tip: It’s usually easier (and less expensive) to take money out once you get to the country you’re visiting as you won’t have to pay the same fees you do at currency exchange hubs in the airport. Many U.S. banks also partner with international banks to omit the ATM fees. Just check with your bank before leaving if there are certain international ATMs you should look for. You’ll also want to make sure to contact your bank to let them know when and where you’re traveling, so they don’t accidentally freeze your cards for suspicious activity. You can call them, visit a branch in person or even set a notice on your banking apps.
• Urgent medication: You never know when you’re going to need medication, and if you have health issues, you’ll want to have your meds where you can reach them. Don’t risk having a health scare during turbulence when the seatbelt sign is on.
• Lip balm and moisturizer: I always like to pack some medicated lip balm and a travel-size moisturizer in my purse because it is dry as heck 40,000 feet in the air. I’m not the type of person who will get up and rummage through my overhead carry-on for a small tube of lip-gloss, so I must always have it in my small personal item lest I be met with chapped lips at the end of the flight.