summer vacation travel checklist

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The Best Summer Vacation Packing List: Free Checklist + Tips (2023)

⚠️ COVID-19 Update for Beaches

CDC recommends the following for people visiting beaches and pools: ✔️  Stay at home if you are sick or have been in contact with a sick person, i.e. tending to their needs, etc.

✔️ Maintain social distancing both in and out of the water from people you don't live with. Stay at least 6 feet away.

✔️ Wear a mask when not in the water. Masks should not be worn by children 2 years old and below.

✔️ Wash your hands with soap and water whenever possible. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

To learn more about CDC's considerations for public beaches, visit this page .

What to Pack for a Summer Vacation

As promised, here's the only summer trip packing list you'll ever need! You can tweak and customize according to your preference, but this one guarantees you'll have everything you need to make the most out of your summer vacation!

Important Documents

✔️ Driver's License / IDs - Keep in your personal bag or in an easy access place so you can simply get it when needed.

✔️ Passport / Visa - For when you're planning to go beach hunting outside the country.

✔️ Credit / Debit Cards - For buying souvenirs and other shopping items. ✔️ Cash - For tipping waiters or porters or when using a vending machine. ✔️ Health Insurance Cards -  Make sure to have both digital and printed copies. ✔️ Hotel / Airbnb Reservation -  Screenshot a copy on your phone or bring a printed copy just in case you run out of battery.

Pro Tip:   Be sure to keep all these important documents in one place. Make photocopies of these documents and send your travel info to a trusted friend or family member in case of emergencies.

Clothes for Her

✔️ 2 Casual Tops -  Pack a few lightweight, breezy and casual tops that are perfect for warm weather.

✔️  Jeans / Shorts -  For your out-of-the-water activities and shopping galore! ✔️ 1 Jacket / Cardigan - Worn at the airport or at night when it gets chilly. ✔️ 1 Pair of Leggings - Can be worn at the airport or when working out.

✔️ 3 Dresses - Pack a maxi dress for taking a walk at the beach, a little black dress for dining out, and a cute sundress for the 'gram!

✔️ 3 Tank Tops - For a comfy and relaxing #OOTD out in the sun. Plus, you can pair it with any bottom! ✔️ 2 Swimsuits - Better bring an extra to wear while waiting for the other one to dry.

✔️  Rashguard -  Keeps your skin protected from rashes, sunburn and sun's harmful rays. ✔️ 1 Pair of Harem Pants / Skirt - Comfortable baggy, long pants or skirts can go with any tops for a classic beach getup. ✔️ 2 Cover Ups - Wear over your swimsuit while lounging on the beach. ✔️ 2 Sets of Pajamas - Thin shirts and a soft cotton short will do. ✔️   Workout Clothes  - For when you want to squeeze exercise in. Jogging on the beach would be fun!

✔️ 1 Romper -  Light colored and flowery ones are sure to make you look fashionable and comfortable under the heat of the sun.

✔️ Bras / Socks / Undies -  Don't pack extras, just wash and dry and wear again for the next day.

✔️ 2 to 3 Pairs of Shoes -  1 walking shoes, 1 sandals / flip flops and 1 dressy pair for special nights.

Pro Tip:  Use a travel shoe bag for all your beloved pairs to separate them from your clothes. If clothes have their own cubes, shoes should have their own pouch as well, right? Right!

Clothes for Him

✔️ 3 Linen Shirts - Very comfy and light especially during the day when it's incredibly warm.

✔️ 2 Tank Tops -  Perfect for strolling in the morning or lounging at the beach.

✔️ 3 Button Down Long Sleeve Shirts -  Make sure to pack shirts with summer or pastel colors made of thin and light materials.  Wear this for dining out or going out at night.

✔️ 2 Pairs of Jeans - Your plain old jeans paired with any top will be just fine.

✔️ 1 Pair of Khaki Pants -  Perfect for the summer heat with its comfortable cotton fabric.

✔️ 3 Pairs of Board Shorts -  Wear either for swimming or doing daily activities at the beach.

✔️ 1 Swim Shorts -  Choose a lightweight, quick-drying, and durable material for a more comfortable swim.

✔️ 2 Sets of Pajamas - Pack a few shirt s and a pair of comfy shorts and you'll be just fine.

✔️ Workout Clothes -  For when you want to work on that summer bod even while on vacation.

✔️ Socks / Undies -  Never lose a pair when you roll them together in their own extra small cube .

✔️ 1 Belt - Optional but bring one for fashion. 

✔️ 3 Pairs of Shoes - Sneakers to wear at the airport, nice shoes for dinner, sandals / flip flops for the beach.

✔️ Shampoo & Conditioner -  Give your hair the proper care it deserves after a full day under the sun.

✔️ Bar Soap / Body Wash -  Choose a brand that helps moisturize and cleanse your skin from drying under the sun.

✔️ Sunscreen - Just a small one, buy a larger bottle in your destination.

✔️ Face Wipes-  Rids your skin of excess oils and dirt after a long day under the sun.

✔️ Lip Balm with SPF -  Too much sun exposure can cause chapped lips. Moisten up with a lip balm with SPF.

✔️ Facial Wash -  Start your daily skin care routine with a facial wash and give your skin that fresh look even when under the harsh heat of the sun.

✔️ Moisturizer -  Keep your skin from looking dry and oily by applying your trusted brand of moisturizer before you seize the day out in the sun.

✔️ Facial Mist -  Give your skin a boost of hydration with facial mist before applying moisturizer for better absorption and more radiant looking skin.

✔️ Toothbrush & Toothpaste  -  Pack travel size ones to keep your load light.

✔️ Dental Floss -  Don't forget to floss!

✔️ Lotion with SPF -  So you can keep your skin moisturized even when under the sun.

✔️ Disposable Razors -  Make sure it has a snap-on plastic cover to protect the blades.

✔️ Makeup Kit - Pack in this clear makeup pouch . Make sure to bring a lip balm, primer, foundation, powder, and tinted moisturizer with at least SPF30.

✔️ Feminine Products - Pack your trusted brands of feminine wash, s anitary napkins, tampons, and liners just in case.

✔️ Wide Tooth Comb -  Tame your mane to look great in every pic!

✔️ Contacts & Solution -  Remember to wash your hands and disinfect first before using your lenses.

✔️ Aloe Vera -  Helps soothe and relaxes sunburnt skin.

✔️ Deodorant -  Smell your best even at the beach.

✔️ Perfume / Cologne -  Smell great, feel great during your entire trip!

✔️ Cotton Swabs / Cotton Balls  -  They're super light and easy to pack so don't forget to bring some.

✔️ Vaseline -  All around use to moisturize your face and hands, remove makeup, soothe dry skin, and more!

✔️ Hair Ties -  Keeps your hair from going all over the place when washing your face. Also very handy when it's just too windy outside.

Pro Tip:  Buy travel size toiletries. If you’re staying in a hotel, you can ditch almost half of your toiletry essentials, such as shampoo, conditioner, and soap. But if you want to stick to your brand, invest in its mini version. Place it in a clear Extra Small Cube to save space and to avoid getting other items sticky and wet.

Hygiene Kit

✔️ Mask - Everyone, except children below 2 years old, are required to wear masks in public, yes - even at the beach and restaurants. ✔️ Antibacterial Wipes - Before touching anything, wipe it clean first. Even if it looks clean to you, wipe it still. Prevention is always better than cure. ✔️ Hand Sanitizer - Very handy during transit when washing hands with soap and water is not an option. ✔️ Disposable Plastic Gloves - Wear when cleaning or when touching produce when shopping for food and other items. ✔️ Alcohol Spray - Can be used to disinfect surfaces and door handles before touching them or for keeping hands virus-free especially when outside.

Medicine Kit

✔️ Prescribed Meds  -  Bring in their original bottles, if possible. If not, label the containers properly.

✔️ Band Aids / Gauze Pads -  Different sizes would be useful for all emergencies.

✔️ Hand Sanitizer -  Make sure your hands are clean and sanitized before tending somebody's wounds or injury.

✔️ Pain Reliever -  Very handy basic medication. Pack Tylenol or Advil to keep the pain at bay.

✔️ Elastic Bandage - Walking or running on the sand is not as simple as walking anywhere else. Just in case someone sprains their ankle or hurt their knee, an elastic bandage can be simply wrapped around the injured joint.

✔️ Ice Packs - Helps relieve a rolled ankle or a black eye from a rogue volleyball to the face, or when it's just too hot on the beach.

✔️ Tweezers - Great for removing splinters on the foot.

✔️ Saline Solution - Perfectly safe for removing sand on the eyes, especially for kids.

✔️ Aloe Vera - Great for treating sunburn.

✔️ Anti-Bug Spray -  You can't escape bug bites when you're at the beach, so make sure you apply bug spray all over if you're just planning to lounge on the beach.

✔️ Anti-Itch Cream - For when a bug bite slips past you even after applying bug spray before going to the beach.

✔️ Ear Drops - Especially for kids with sensitive ears. Put a few drops before swimming so they won't complain of not being able to hear clearly because of having water in their ears.

Beach Essentials

✔️ Sunscreen -  Protect your skin from the extreme heat of the sun with a sun block that has SPF 50.

✔️ Sunglasses -  Don't go to the beach without a pair!

✔️ Microfiber Beach Towels  -  Quick drying ones are the best to keep you from feeling cold and freezing after getting out of the water.

✔️ Beach Blanket -  Definitely a must-have especially when you just want to lay down without getting sand all over you and your things.

✔️ Water Bottle -  Drink water, plenty of water!

✔️ Sun Hat -  Completes the beach look with your sunglasses and outfit!

✔️ Tote Bag -  To put all your beach essentials in.

Pro Tip: Rather than throwing all your beach items into that adorable tote bag you brought, use a few packing cubes to separate your essentials in the bag (and keep everything clean).

That way, you don’t have to worry about things getting wet or sandy! Easily wipe down the cubes with a towel after the beach and use again the next day. Keep your phone in the extra small for sand protection!

✔️ Beach Chairs -  Perfect for relaxing and people watching on the beach.

✔️ Beach Toys - Inflatable ball, sand castle making tools, and more.

✔️ Swim Goggles - Invest in a snorkeling set that you can use for all your beach trips.

✔️ Waterproof Phone Bag - If you don't have a waterproof camera, you can use a waterproof phone bag so you can take selfies and photos even when you're in the water.

✔️ Snacks / Food -  Prepare healthy snacks and treats like, sandwiches, nuts and fruits that you can take on the beach. Remember to dispose your trash properly.

✔️ Umbrella -  When the heat is just too much and a hat just won't cut it.

✔️ Small Portable Cooler -  To keep your beverages ice cold, the way you like it.

✔️ Garbage Bag / Plastic Bags -  Clean as you go! Place your empty bottles and snack wrappers in the garbage bag and find a bin to throw it.

✔️ Portable Lock Box -  So you can enjoy swimming and relaxing at the beach without worrying about losing your valuables.

Technology / Entertainment

✔️ Waterproof Camera - For some cool underwater photos

✔️ Selfie Stick - To nail that groufie (group selfie) or to have a wider selfie!

✔️ Laptop - To transfer photos / videos from the camera.

✔️ Portable Waterproof Speakers - Press play on that beach playlist you've been saving for days!

✔️ Kindle - If you want to do some reading while relaxing on the beach.

✔️ Cords & Chargers - For all your gadgets. Make sure to keep them in their own cube.

Pro Tip:  Bring a portable phone charger. Okay, we get it. You’re excited about posting your photos on Instagram, but what if your phone’s battery is half empty? Be a smart traveler, and bring this with you everywhere. Need to buy your own? Check out the best portable phone charger here (the one we like to travel with) .  

✔️ Power Strip -  You're probably going to post a lot or take a bunch of photos during this summer trip and chances are, you're going to fight over one or two socket to charge your phone. Bring a power strip so everyone can charge at the same time!

✔️ Frisbee - Classic beach must-have!

✔️ Volleyball - You might meet some friends on the beach when you ask them to play with you.

✔️ Deck of Cards / Card Games - When the sun's still too high outside and you just want to relax in your hotel room and have fun.

✔️ Board Games - Perfect for game night when you still have a lot of energy left in you after a fun day under the sun.

✔️ Coloring Books and Crayons - To keep the kids entertained when the sun's still too hot for them to go outside.

Other Necessities

✔️ Packing Cubes -  To easily organize all your travel essentials.

Pro Tip:  If you haven’t tried EzPacking cubes , now’s the perfect chance. Use Extra Small Cube for your toiletries and other tinier trinkets. Use a Small Cube to pack your personal essentials, bathing suits, socks, bras and underwear. Use a Medium Cube to pack all your outfits,  cover-ups, jeans and dresses together. The Large Cube is perfect for bulkier items such as sweater, jackets, and pants. 

✔️ Pillows -  If you're traveling with the fam or with extra people, avoid paying extra charges at the hotel when you request for extra pillows by bringing your own travel size ones.

✔️ Extra Sheets -  If you have sensitive skin and you're too keen with cleanliness, bringing your own bed linen will help you rest comfortably. Don't worry, you can easily pack your extra sheets in a large cube .

✔️ Travel Laundry Bag -  Keep your dirty clothes away from your clean ones by putting them in a separate travel laundry bag . Here's how you can use it in your hotel:

✔️ Disinfecting Wipes -  For cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and handles before touching them.

✔️ Paper Towels -  Pack a travel size one that you can easily slip in your tote bag or purse.

✔️ Napkins -  Very handy especially when dining with kids.

✔️ Plastic-ware -  Bring your own utensils or disposable plastic-wares to avoid using the ones at the restaurant.

✔️ Accessories -  Bring your simple everyday bracelets, earrings, and necklaces while leave all the other pricey jewelries at home. Wear these with your dress when going out. Take them off and organize in a travel jewelry roll when going for a swim.

✔️ Laundry Soap -  Rather than packing extras, make it a habit to wash your undies, socks, and other small items of clothing with a laundry soap.

✔️ Food / Snacks -  Keep some snacks available in your hotel room in case you get hungry.

✔️ Water / Drinks -  Buy from a local grocery store and load up your hotel room with water and drinks to stay hydrated.

✔️ Flashlight -  A handy tool just in case you'll experience a power outage.

Now that all the essentials for your summer vacation are listed, all that's left to do is pack. And when packing's all done, all that's left is to enjoy!

Happy summer!  

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 and the Best Vacation Packing Tips (Printable)

Before taking a vacation, it’s a good idea plan. In addition to planning your itinerary, you also need to figure out what you will pack. Taking the time to sort out what you need to bring before you leave is an excellent way to prepare well for your trip. If you haven’t traveled in a while or you feel like you’re always missing essential items when you travel, this travel packing guide may help. Are you taking a trip soon? Here’s what you need to know before you pack for your next trip or vacation.

Table of Contents

What to Consider Before You Pack

Before you begin packing, it’s best to think more about the trip you will be taking. After all, not all trips are the same, and some trips may require different items.

Here are some things to consider:

• What bags to bring: Your travel plans and airline’s baggage policy may dictate what bags you bring. Knowing what bags you plan to bring before you begin packing is a must. That way, you can strategize and not overpack based on the luggage space available. 
• Number of travel days: You want to have plenty of clothes and essentials for your entire trip. Make sure that you pack plenty of items for the number of days you plan to travel. If you’re staying in a home rental with laundry facilities, you may be able to pack less and do laundry during your trip. If you prefer to pack light, check to see if you’ll have access to laundry facilities or if there is a laundromat near your accommodation. 
• The weather situation: You want to make sure that you pack clothes that will be comfortable for the weather. Check the expected temperature, see if there will be rain or snow, and let this information guide you when packing. If you don’t pack appropriate clothing and gear, you may have to spend money when you arrive or risk being very uncomfortable. If you have room, bring a compact umbrella.
• The type of trip you plan to have: Your planned activities and travel style will also dictate what you need to pack. If you’re all about comfort and hope to lounge around a lot, you may not need to pack many dress clothes. If you’re an adventure seeker who plans to participate in recreational activities, athletic attire and appropriate shoes are necessary. 
• What you can buy at your destination: Some items may make more sense to buy at your destination. For example, if you’re only bringing a carry-on bag, you might decide to buy a bottle of full-size sunscreen after you arrive. When creating your packing list, note items that you can easily buy at your destination to avoid wasting space.

The Vacationer Tip

Review your airline’s baggage policies before packing. Here are polices for some of the top airlines.

– American Airlines Baggage Policy – Delta Air Lines Baggage Policy – Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy – United Airlines Baggage Policy

How to Decide Which Items to Put in Which Bags

When it comes time to pack for your trip, take some time to think about which bag each item will go in; for example, if you’re planning to check luggage, some things may make more sense to go in your checked bag rather than your carry-on bag. Additionally, some items may not be allowed in your carry-on bag—such as full-sized liquid products.  

If you take any medication or have other essential items that you’re packing, those items should stay close to you—such as in a carry-on bag or personal item, like a backpack or purse. Checked bags may get lost or delayed, and you don’t want to be without essential medications or other necessary items. If you’re packing medications, the TSA recommends they be clearly labeled. 

As you pack your carry-on bag, It’s also a good idea to bring at least one change of clothes with you. If something happens to your checked baggage, you’ll be thankful that you have some clothes to change into after traveling. 

If you’re traveling with a laptop or another electronic device, like an iPad, keep those items in an easy-to-access place (like upfront or in a laptop pocket). These items will need to be removed from your carry-on bag, purse, or backpack during security screening. If they’re not accessible, it will take you longer to get through security, and you’ll hold up the line.

Further Reading: Carry-On Essentials for Flights and Best Carry-On Luggage

Packing Liquids

As you prepare for your trip, don’t forget to consider which liquids you’ll need to bring. If you’re bringing some checked luggage, you’ll need to consider which liquid items will go in your checked bag vs your carry-on luggage. 

If you plan to pack liquids in your carry-on bag, they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less. They also need to fit in one quart-sized resealable bag. If you’re traveling with multiple people, each person can have one quart-sized resealable bag with appropriately sized liquids. Ensure that all containers are sealed well, so you don’t have a mess all over your suitcase and belongings. 

When you go through the security screening process at the airport, you’ll need to remove your bag of liquids and place it in a bin; You do not have to remove your liquids if you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry . To conserve space, focus on packing liquids that you need. Most hotels and some home rentals provide essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Before packing, check to see what will be provided at your accommodation.

Packing Shoes

Most people plan to bring more than one pair of shoes when traveling. If you have several pairs of shoes that you want to bring, you may be worried about wasting space. But if you’re strategic, you can pack several shoes and make it work. 

One way to save on space is to use the empty area inside your shoes to your advantage. You can fill your shoes with smaller items such as socks, underwear, and belts. If you’re worried about dirty shoes, put disposable shower caps on the bottoms of your shoes. If you don’t have these, you can use smaller plastic bags to protect your clothes from dirt.

Ideas to Maximize Space

If you’re looking to maximize the space that you have available, you may be wondering how to pack your items to save room. Here are some techniques that may help: 

Packing cubes: Some travelers use packing cubes for their clothing items and accessories. These cubes can help by slightly compressing your items, so they take up a bit less space in your bag. If you’ve never tried packing cubes, it may be worthwhile to give them a chance. 

Rolling instead of folding: Another option to consider is rolling your clothes. This does take time,  but you may find that you’re able to fit more items in your bag this way. Just make sure that you remember to roll your clothes back up when packing up to head home. 

Choose versatile clothing items: You can also save on space by strategically choosing which clothing items you bring. Consider packing versatile clothing items that work well for multiple outfits. As an example, packing clothing with neutral colors is a great idea. You can wear items multiple times without it looking obvious. Doing this will make it easier to mix and match outfits, and you may find that you can pack fewer items. 

Buy some items at your destination: If you only have so much space to work with, buying some things at your destination may be the best bet. Make sure that you consider cost and availability before choosing to do this.

Suggested Vacation Packing List

Having a packing list can help you make sure that everything you need makes it into your suitcase. If you’re forgetful, printing out your list and checking off each item as you pack is recommended. Here’s a suggested packing list to follow as you prepare for your next trip:

Here are our recommended clothing and apparel items to pack.

Shoes and Accessories

Here are our recommended shoes and accessories to pack.

Here are our recommended toiletries to pack.

Miscellaneous

Here are our recommended miscellaneous items to pack.

Comforts for travel (suggested to pack in personal item)

Here are our recommended comfort items to pack.

Tips for success

With proper planning and good organization, you can ensure that you pack everything that you need for your upcoming trip. The following tips can help you have more success: 

• Make a packing list and check each item off as you pack . It may seem silly, but this practice can help you avoid forgetting must-have items. You’ll be glad that you have what you need.
• Start with your must-have items. As you begin to pack, start with essential items. This way, you don’t forget to bring what you truly need. 
• Keep items packed up. Once you check an item off your list, ensure it stays in your packed bag. If you remove something and forget to make a note, you may end up leaving without it. 
• Don’t forget masks. When traveling during the pandemic, you’ll want to bring plenty of masks. Mask requirements vary by destination, and you want to make sure that you have what you need before you arrive. 
• Know your airline’s baggage rules. If you bring an overweight or too-large bag, you may get stuck paying extra fees. Check your airline’s sizing and weight rules before you begin packing, and double-check the weight once your bag is all packed up.  
• Consider wrinkles when choosing clothing items. Some fabrics are more wrinkle-resistant than others. If you don’t have access to an iron or a dryer, (I’m not the only one that de-wrinkles my clothes this way, right?!) try to pick materials that are less likely to get wrinkled. 
• Wear bulky items. Bulky items take up a lot of space and weight. If you plan to bring a bulky winter jacket or boots, for example, wear them on the plane. You’ll have what you need without taking up space and weight in your bag. 
• Do laundry while traveling. If at all possible, do laundry while traveling. Whether you stay in a home rental with laundry facilities or stop at a laundromat, this can help reduce the number of clothes you need to pack.
• Don’t overpack. It can be easy to overpack accidentally. Focus on what you truly need instead of bringing “maybe” items.
• Ensure your house is in order. Before leaving, make sure all of your lights are off and your alarm system is set if you have one. Other things to do include watering your plants, taking out the trash, setting automatic pet feeders, and notifying your credit card companies of your travel.

Yes, you can travel with liquids. Liquid containers must be no larger than 3.4 ounces, and all liquid containers must fit in one resealable quart-sized bag. If you want to bring larger liquid items, they must be packed in checked baggage.

Experiment with different methods of packing. Some travelers find success using packing cubes, while others find better success rolling their clothes. The more you experiment, the better you’ll get at maximizing space.

Make a packing list and check each item off as you put it in your bag.

Consider keeping electronics, valuables, money, your passport, essential medicine, and a change of clothes with you. If your checked baggage gets lost or is delayed, you’ll have what you need with you.

While you can do this, it’s recommended that you don’t put valuables in your checked baggage. Instead, place them in your carry-on bag or personal item. Putting valuables in a purse or backpack under the seat in front of you is best because it will be near you. If you place valuables in a checked bag, they could be stolen.

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Don’t leave your packing until the very last moment. If you do this, you may be unprepared once you arrive at your destination. With proper planning, packing can be easy and quick. Follow the tips above for the best success as you begin to pack for your trip. See our beach vacation packing list for more specifics if you will be vacationing near the ocean or a lake.

By Natasha Gabrielle

Natasha has been a freelance writer since 2015. She specializes in writing travel and credit card rewards content. When not busy writing, she’s either dreaming up her next credit card rewards redemption or traveling the globe. Her goal is to encourage more people to experience the world around them while making smart money choices.

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Vacation packing list: 27 essentials for any trip.

This vacation packing list covers the major essentials you don't want to forget.

Vacation Packing List

Getty Images

Make sure you have everything you need for your next getaway.

While every vacation packing list ultimately looks different based on a variety of factors – the destination, traveler(s), budget and more – consider this guide a jumping-off point for the must-haves. You can also scroll down to More Vacation Packing Lists to see recommendations for specific trips.

Vacation packing list

For the journey, for the vacation.

Courtesy of Coolife

Before your adventure begins, you'll want to decide what type of bag(s) to pack. To determine the type of luggage you'll need, consider:

• How many days will you be traveling? If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag ) should be sufficient.  
• Who are you traveling with? Determine if you can combine your belongings to avoid unnecessary checked luggage fees. If traveling with children who can help carry bags, consider some kids luggage they'll be excited to carry or roll along. 
• What type of climate(s) will you be in? For cold weather vacations, you might consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . 
• What are the baggage restrictions for your mode of travel? Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.
• What kind of clothing will you need? Is this a casual trip or will you need formalwear for dinners and other gatherings? If you'll need the latter, you might want to purchase a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing. 

Packing cubes

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

To maximize suitcase space and stay organized, invest in at least one set of packing cubes. Travel experts recommend any of the packing cubes by Eagle Creek , as well as this cheap, quality set on Amazon . For more options, check out The Best Packing Cubes, Chosen by Travel Experts .

Credit cards

When traveling, it's good to have at least two credit card options with you. That way, if there are any issues with one card (or maybe a merchant doesn't accept American Express or Discover, a common occurrence when traveling abroad), you've got a backup payment option. It's also helpful in the event your credit card gets compromised and subsequently locked.

Read: The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel documents

Having your boarding pass and personal identification is essential no matter where you're traveling. For international travel, you'll want a passport wallet for your passport along with any visa or customs forms you may need. Be sure to keep these documents either on your body or in your personal item that you place in under the seat in front of you on the plane (not in the overhead bin, where you may not always have access).

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Whether it's a long flight, train ride or car trip, dozing off without support can be a literal pain in the neck. Depending on what's comfortable for you, the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the Trtl Travel Pillow are two of the top U.S. News travel pillows . If you're short on space, you may want to consider the multitasking Tube Travel Neck Pillow , which doubles as a packing cube.

Water bottle

Staying hydrated while on the go is essential, and traveling with a reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly way to do it. The LifeStraw Go is dishwasher-safe (when you remove the filter) and made of BPA-free plastic; the flip-straw has a two-step filter to trap bacteria and more. To keep your water cold for hours, the YETI Rambler has a durable stainless steel construction in a variety of colors and is the perfect canvas for travel stickers you collect along the way. To save space, try the Nomader Collapsible water bottle.

Hand sanitizer and holder

Keeping your hands clean while traveling helps fend off germs and unwanted illnesses. Hand sanitizer is essential for any trip, and clipping a travel-size bottle of it to your carry-on or handbag makes it easily accessible when you need it. You can find hand sanitizer holders on Amazon or at your local dollar store. You may also want to consider some antibacterial wipes for your in-flight tray table and sticky situations.

Toiletry bag and toiletries

Organizing your makeup, hair products, personal hygiene items and shaving supplies in a quality toiletry bag – such as the well-rated Lug Trolley on Amazon – makes it easy to find your essentials while traveling. Depending on what you plan to pack, a hanging style like the L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag , with a removable shower caddy and built-in hook, helps to save counter space and is especially useful in tight cruise ship cabins. To easily see everything at once, choose any of the clear cosmetics cases from CALPAK , which are available in multiple sizes and color trims.

For air travel, you'll need to keep in mind the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: that all liquids, gels and creams must be 3 ounces or less and placed into a one-quart clear bag. You can find refillable and travel-size toiletries and reusable quart-sized TSA-approved bags on Amazon .

Read: The Best Toiletry Bags

Medications and first-aid kit

You'll want to be sure to pack any prescription medications in your carry-on bag, along with other medications you may need while traveling, such as Dramamine . It's also helpful to have a travel-size first-aid kit with Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and more.

Compression socks

For everything from long flights to walking miles exploring a new destination, compression socks can help provide additional support and reduce swelling. With varying levels of compression available, one medium-level option to consider is the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks – a U.S. News top pick .

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Walking shoes

Courtesy of Birkenstock

Every journey includes a fair amount of walking, and nothing can put a stop to the fun like foot pain. Before you depart, be sure to invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes . For a sneaker style, the ASICS Gel-Contend is a U.S. News top pick. If you'd like a slip-on style, the Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer for both men and women provides comfort and stability, while being able to be dressed up or worn casually. For a sandal, consider a supportive option like the Birkenstock Mayari .

Travel purse/bag

One way to keep identification, credit cards and other personal information organized and protected while traveling is with a well-designed purse or belt bag , such as the Anti-Theft Classic Messenger or the Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack by Travelon . The Lug Convertible Carousel also includes RFID protection and can be worn as a belt bag or as a crossbody.

If you're looking for a fashionable bag that can easily go from day to night, check out the TUMI Voyageur Crossbody , which has a choice of leather or nylon construction with leather accents, multiple compartments and gold hardware. The sustainable and machine-washable Vera Bradley Utility Tote Bag is another great option, with a removable shoulder strap and exterior pockets for your phone and other essentials.

Read: The Top Travel Purses

Long-sleeved shirt

When you're traveling, there's a good chance you might be changing climates or find yourself a bit chilled from air conditioning. Pack a long-sleeve tee, such as the L.L.Bean Beyond Soft Tee for women or the Carefree Unshrinkable Tee for men . This basic wardrobe staple works as a shirt on its own, a base layer in colder weather or a pull-on style over a tee. For young travelers, consider the Kids' Graphic Tee from L.L. Bean for a bit of playful fun.

Button-up shirt

For a shirt that can truly multitask, pack a button-up shirt. A classic style – like a Calvin Klein shirt for men or a timeless white button-down for women on Amazon – can be dressed up for dinner or a museum visit, paired with shorts and rolled sleeves for exploring, or put it on with a bathing suit as a cover-up.

This wardrobe staple is a travel essential. Versatile black, white or navy tees can be worn alone, under a blazer or layered for added warmth as needed. Pack a few basic options like the cotton tees at Lands' End for women , men , girls and boys , then add a fun graphic tee or two.

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

A jacket that can fold up small to be tucked into your luggage is essential for any vacation packing list. From rain jackets to lightweight puffer jackets, choose the perfect packable jacket to keep you warm and dry in any locale.

Evening outfit

Even if you're going to the beach or planning a casual retreat, chances are you'll go out for a nicer dinner at least one night. Women may want to consider a black travel dress on Amazon , which can be dressed up with evening sandals and a necklace (or worn during the day for sightseeing). Men can invest in a packable travel blazer and wrinkle-free dress pants.

Reusable/foldable bag

Whether you're heading to the local market or going on a day trip, a packable tote like the CALPAK Compakt Tote Bag is ideal for stowing your daytime essentials and finds you buy along the way. If you're the type that likes to buy a lot of souvenirs from your travels, the Lug Packable Boxer is ideal to use for a day tote while traveling and as a personal item on your return flight. One of these reusable bags can also double as a beach bag. Or, if you want to bring a beach bag to double as your everyday travel bag, check out the best beach bags from U.S. News for additional recommendations.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Focus on the moment (and enjoy the visual later) with a digital camera like the Panasonic Lumix G100 4K . A mirrorless model with both the ability to capture video and still images offers versatility whether you want to record the waves at sunset or snap a selfie in front of a museum. To get creative angles or have a tripod on the go, the Joby GorillaPod is a flexible and bendable option for travel.

If you're an active traveler, a GoPro HERO9 is a must-pack item. It has built-in stabilization features, and you can livestream your endeavors, film video or shoot images with this waterproof design. For a vintage-infused photo gallery, the Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is a hybrid camera that allows you to store images on a memory card or print them directly from the device. It's the perfect way to document your travels along the way.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the oceans with reef-safe sunscreen . Depending on your destination, some places – including Hawaii; Key West, Florida; Aruba; parts of Mexico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, to name a few – have laws against the sale of sunscreens with reef-harming ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Many of the traditional brands of sunscreen have these ingredients, so look for an effective mineral-based sunscreen like Blue Lizard or Sun Bum .

In addition to sunscreen, a hat protects your face from the sun's harmful rays. What's more, it can be a fashionable addition to your beach attire. A packable style like the San Diego Hat Company women's large brim hat can be rolled and packed into a suitcase or carry-on, and provide a generous amount of shade at the beach, by the lake and beyond. For more recommendations, see U.S. News' list of the best beach hats .

While there's an endless array of bathing suit options, classic styles like a black tank suit for women can be paired with a long skirt to be transformed into an outfit. Or, a classic men's swim trunk can be worn with a polo top to maximize your vacation wardrobe. For the kids, Lands' End offers cute and functional designs for girls and boys .

Beach towels

Whether you want to add something soft to your favorite beach chair or you want to lay it right on the sand, a beach towel that repels sand and dries quickly is a vacation must-have. Consider a quick-drying oversized Turkish towel from Amazon or an attention-grabbing Lilly Pulitzer beach towel . You may also want to invest in a beach blanket .

Ideal as added sun protection or for walking through the air-conditioned corridors of a resort or cruise ship, a cute swimsuit cover-up is another packing essential. Some options include a chic J.Crew beach shirt , a stylish romper or a sheer La Blanca kimono .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Nothing says laid-back vacation like a pair of flip-flops. Havaianas has styles for the whole family , in an array of colors and prints to coordinate with your beach attire.

Water shoes

Cuts on feet from coral, shells or even glass can be extremely painful. To protect the soles of you and yours, consider the Native Jefferson shoes , available in both children's and adult sizes. Designed for street wear, these versatile shoes are also water-friendly, making them ideal for everything from strolling the boardwalk to tubing down the river. For a more traditional water shoe, check out the Keen Newport sandals .

Sunscreen and cover-ups may protect your skin, but the sun can really hurt your eyes (especially when it reflects off the water). Top off your vacation style with Ray-Ban aviators or a classic Wayfarer . If you're seeking a chic retro vibe, you can't go wrong with a Kate Spade cat-eye frame.

More Vacation Packing Lists

Check out these other packing guides compiled by U.S. News:

• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Packing List
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• Road Trip Packing List
• Camping Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag, a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote. She used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans
• How to Renew Your Passport
• TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Is Right for You?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Ultimate Summer Vacation Packing List For Your Summer Trip (2023)

Many of your will be going on vacation this summer most likely somewhere warm. In some ways packing for summer is easier than packing for other seasons because you can bring lighter clothes which take up less space in your luggage but there are several must pack items you don’t want to forget. For those of you traveling this summer, I have put together the ultimate summer vacation packing list for men and women.

Summer Vacation Packing List

Below is my summer travel packing checklist.

• Dresses and skirts   – I love wearing dresses in the summer and I always pack at least a 2-3 dresses on my summer travels.  I always bring at least 1 colorful dress and 1 basic black dress that I can wear day to night.  Skirts are cute as well but I prefer dresses because I don’t have to worry about bringing a matching top.

• Shorts – Those of you that live in a cold destination will be excited to finally wear shorts. For those that like to wear shorts, I recommend women bring at least 1 pair and men bring 2-3 pairs. Dickies makes great men’s shorts that are perfect for traveling, outdoor activities or camping including this cargo short .

• Lightweight pants  – Shorts can be too casual for some places.  I recommend men bring at least one pair of lightweight pants that can be worn at a nice restaurant or bar.  Women might want to pack a pair of lightweight or linen pants as well or they might want to just bring dresses or skirts. Avoid jeans as they will make you too hot and are also super slow to dry.

• Shirts/tops  – The number of shirts and other tops you need depends how long your trip is and if you will be doing laundry. I recommend men bring at least 3 short sleeve shirts, including a t-shirt, a nicer polo shirt and a performance short sleeve tee that keeps you cool and provides odor protection when spending time outdoors.  Women can get away with fewer tops if they pack more dresses.

• Sweater, fleece or hoodie  – Even if you are vacationing somewhere hot, I recommend bringing at least 1 long sleeve sweater or hoodie for chilly summer nights, cold airplanes and air-conditioned places.

• Underwear, socks and bras – The number depends on how long your trip is and if you will be doing laundry.  If you will be checking luggage, I recommend packing at least 1 of each in your carry on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.

• Sandals and/or flip-flops  – Make sure to bring at least 1 pair of sandals or flip flops to wear at the beach or as shower shoes at hostels. I like  Havaianas flip flops because they have great traction and don’t slip when walking on wet surfaces. Women might want to bring an extra pair of dressier sandals as well.

• Hiking shoes or sneakers  – Summer is a great time to go camping or hiking so you might want to bring some closed toe shoes for you outdoor activities. For women, I have and recommend the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid hiking boot .

• Loafers for men/cute flats for women   – If you will be dining our or eating out, I recommend men pack a pair of nice closed toe shoes that can be worn to a nice restaurant or bar. Women can wear a cute pair of sandals, but cute flats are another great option and also make good walking shoes.

Other Summer Essentials

• Sunglasses – A must for summer travel!

• Hat – A hat is a must for sun protection if you will be spending a lot of time outdoors. Ideally, I recommend a wide brim hat but even a baseball cap is better than nothing.  Coolibar hats and clothes have excellent sun protection.

• Scarf  – A lightweight scarf will keep you warm on chilly summer nights, cold airplanes and places with freezing air-conditioning.

• Bandana – A bandana is so versatile – you can use it to wipe off sweat or use as a scarf or mask.

• Swimwear – Don’t forget to pack at least 1 bathing suit for the beach or pool. Women might also want to bring a sarong, kaftan or swimwear cover up plus a cute beach bag .

• Rain protection  – If you will be spending a lot of time outdoors, I recommend packing a light rain jacket, poncho or travel umbrella in case it rains.

• Backpack or tote – A small backpack is perfect for flying but also great for hiking and day trips. I use a  CabinZero backpack which I recommend. Women might want to bring a tote bag or other bag instead or in addition to a backpack.

• Sunscreen and insect repellent  – Don’t forget to bring sunscreen. Insect repellent is also important when spending time outdoors or if you are traveling somewhere where the Zika virus or other mosquito bourne diseases is a threat. I use and recommend this  insect repellent with DEET but there are also more natural alternatives.

Other Travel Necessities

Don’t forget these travel necessities:

• Passport or driver’s license • Cash, credit cards, ATM cards • Glasses, contacts, contact lens solution • Medication and prescriptions • Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer • Photography gear (camera, gopro) and other electronics (smartphone, computer, tablet, kindle , cords, memory cards, external battery ,  universal travel adaptor  if traveling internationally) • Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss • Lip balm, lotion, deodorant, tissues, comb and other toiletries and makeup • Reusable water bottle and snacks • Books, entertainment, road trip essentials if driving or carry on essentials if flying

These are my summer travel essentials. Is there anything else I should add to my summer travel packing list?

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Summer travel checklist: 11 things to do now to make your trip great

Editor's Note

It might be early April, but there are things you should be doing now to make your summer vacation a hit.

Sure, booking your summer trips is an important step, but there are also some housekeeping items to take care of to ensure your summer travel goes off without a hitch.

Here's everything to add to your planning checklist so you can minimize travel headaches when away from home this summer.

Book travel and select seats now

Believe it or not, summer is just around the corner. Airfare prices are already high and will likely get much higher. So, it may be time to book those trips before you're priced out of your vacation.

A great tool to use for deals is Google Flights . You can set an alert for your ideal days and itineraries and then monitor everything for a week or two before pulling the trigger. Google will tell you the average airfare for your journey and whether you are getting a deal, so you can rest easy knowing you can make an informed decision. Google will even email you if the price jumps or drops drastically.

What about when to book ?

There's no magical best day to book your trips, but you might be better off traveling on a Tuesday or Wednesday to score the best deals. Traveling midweek is likely your best chance at saving some cash, whether traveling in the U.S. or abroad.

Related: These are the best times to buy an international flight

Don't forget to also periodically double-check prices to see if you can get a credit if prices drop between now and your departure date.

If you are booking a hotel, make sure you purchase a refundable rate. That way, if the price drops, you can cancel and rebook at the lower price. That applies to points redemptions as well.

It's also a great time to check your airline seat maps and choose seats now. The longer you wait, the more the plane will fill, meaning fewer desirable seats will be left for you to choose from.

Related: How to avoid airline change and cancellation fees

Triple-check your passport expiration date

This may seem obvious, but it's always important to check your passport expiration date before an international trip. You typically need at least six months of validity .

Don't forget to factor in the renewal process when planning a trip, too. Right now, it's taking six to eight weeks for routine renewals and up to three weeks for expedited service.

Some countries also require you to have at least one or two empty pages in your passport if you need a visa — one empty page is required for Mexico, Canada and many countries in Europe, while two are necessary for countries like China and South Africa — so make sure your passport has ample free space.

Related: The world's most powerful passports for 2023

Sign up for TSA PreCheck

Have you ever been waiting in a long security line at the airport while people in the line next to you breeze on by? If you've ever wondered why they're able to do this, the answer is likely because they have TSA PreCheck .

Related: Which airports and airlines use TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is an expedited airport security program administered by the U.S. government in which prescreened, low-risk travelers can use a designated security line rather than wait in the regular Transportation Security Administration line at the airport. The line is typically much faster than the regular security line because travelers in the TSA PreCheck line do not need to remove liquids or electronics from their carry-on luggage or take off their shoes, belts or light jackets before passing through metal detectors.

Currently, a five-year TSA PreCheck membership costs $78 per person and can be renewed online for a reduced cost of $70 per person. If you have the right credit cards in your wallet, however, you can have that fee reimbursed. Many credit cards offer up to a $100 statement credit reimbursement for the application fees associated with TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry as long as you pay for your membership with that card.

Related: TSA PreCheck just got cheaper, but remember that you can get it for free

The following are just a few of the nearly 50 cards that cover TSA PreCheck (and/or Global Entry) fees:

• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

If you have several international trips coming up, you may want to apply for Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows for expedited reentry into the U.S. after international travel. A Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck, so it may be worth the higher fee ($100 for a five-year membership) if your summer travel plans include some international trips.

Related: Should you get Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?

While going through the express security lane does come at a cost, it can significantly reduce the time you'll need to get from the ticket counter to your departure gate. This is especially important during busy travel times like Memorial Day weekend, Independence Day and Labor Day weekend.

Related: 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear

Enroll in Clear PLUS

Although some airports like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) still have long lines even when using Clear, being a member of this program can often save you a ton of time at airports like New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

But what exactly is this program?

Like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, Clear is an expedited security program. It is now at 51 airports, among other locations , and has more than 14 million members nationwide.

Related: Hate airport lines? Why your family may want to get Clear before your next flight

To sign up for Clear , you'll need to allow the company to catalog identifying features (which Clear does through fingerprint and iris scans) to automate the identity verification step in the TSA screening process. Once you are enrolled, you can then enter a separate (often shorter) security lane with speedier access to the TSA agents and security screening. All you'll need to do is scan your eyes before a Clear representative escorts you to the front of the line for the traditional security screening machines.

If you have TSA PreCheck with Clear, there are sometimes special lines that will get you through security even faster.

Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both

While Clear costs $189 , making it pricier than a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck, some elite members are eligible for reduced or even free membership fees.

If you are a Delta Diamond Medallion , Delta 360, United Global Services or United Premier 1K status holder, you can enroll in Clear for free. Delta Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion members and United Platinum, Gold and Silver members can pay a reduced rate of $149 per year. Even entry-level Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus members qualify for a discount; they'll pay just $179 a year.

Some credit cards will also give you a statement credit for Clear.

Anyone with the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card , the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card , or the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card will pay only $149 per year for the service.

The same applies to those with a United cobranded credit card, such as the United℠ Explorer Card , the United℠ Business Card or the United Club℠ Infinite Card . Cardholders can enroll for a reduced rate of $149 per year.

Additionally, you can get up to a $189 statement credit for Clear Plus membership via these cards (enrollment required):

• American Express® Green Card, including an annual statement credit for up to three family members
• The Platinum Card from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card from American Express

The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Check your Global Entry membership to make sure it's valid

If you already have Global Entry status to enter the U.S. after an international trip, then you already know how speedy it can make the immigration process. Global Entry works for both land ports of entry — like crossing the border from Canada or Mexico — and airports. It's valid for five years.

Related: Practical Pointers: How to get a new or replacement Global Entry card

Before you travel, make sure you check your Global Entry card for the expiration date so you avoid the mistake this reader made a few years ago. The expiration date for your Global Entry membership (which always falls on your birthday following the fifth anniversary of your approval date) appears both in your online account and on the back of your Global Entry card.

Due to delays in processing renewals, CBP has extended grace periods of up to two years for renewals, but you must submit your renewal application online in your account prior to the expiration date.

As a reminder, children cannot go through Global Entry lanes with a parent unless they have their own membership. Remember that select credit cards offer Global Entry credits, so your membership may be free.

Related: 13 things you need to know about Global Entry

Download your airline's mobile app

Regardless of which airline you are flying, it's essential that you install the app of that carrier on your phone (and don't forget the TPG App ).

Before you leave home, you'll want to download the app, log in to your account and set up push notifications so you'll know right away if there are any changes to your reservation. This will ensure you receive updates about your flight as soon as they're made available, which is especially helpful during irregular operations; updates sometimes appear in the app before they are announced at the airport.

In situations involving delays or cancellations, having easy access to your airline's mobile app can be a huge help. In addition to receiving flight change notifications in one easy-to-access spot on your phone, you can track your flight to see where it's at. Some airline apps will even let you track your checked luggage, request to be placed on standby for an earlier flight, rebook yourself if something goes wrong with your original flight and chat with a live customer service agent should you need assistance.

Related: All the reasons to download your airline's mobile app

Double-check lounge access policies

A lot has changed recently when it comes to airport lounges . As such, you'll want to read up on airport lounge access, including guest restrictions, before you set out on your summer travels.

For example, just because you could bring the rest of your travel party into the lounge with you as guests last summer, you won't necessarily be able to do that this time around.

American Express updated the guest policy for its network of Centurion Lounges . Unless cardholders hit a $75,000 minimum spending requirement on their eligible American Express card annually, they can no longer bring two guests in without incurring an additional charge. There are still ways to ensure guest access to Centurion Lounges , but you'll have to pay (unless your entire travel party is younger than 2, in which case they can still enter for free).

Related: Alaska Airlines makes big changes to lounge access

Similarly, Delta recently made its entry rules stricter than ever . Now, Sky Club members flying on basic economy tickets no longer have access to Sky Clubs unless they have an eligible Amex card with Sky Club access. Elite members on international flights in Main Cabin or Comfort+ seats are subject to the same restrictions but can also use their Sky Club membership to access Sky Club lounges.

Eventually, Delta Air Lines will limit the number of visits you can make to lounges each year.

It isn't all bad news regarding airport lounge access this summer. New lounges are popping up in frequently visited airports, giving you even more options for fueling up or resting up on travel days.

For example, Chase just opened a huge new lounge at JFK.

Other new lounges include the recently opened Sky Club at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and American Express' new Centurion Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) .

Related: Delta unveils 7 new or reopened Sky Clubs

Book high-demand activities as soon as possible

No matter where your travels take you this summer, it's likely others are headed to the same vacation hot spots as you. National parks, cabanas, tours and even theme park restaurants book up early for summer dates. Fortunately, there are a few tips for snagging reservations before they sell out.

Related: Visiting a national park this summer? Better plan ahead

National parks

Certain national parks have adopted advance reservation requirements in recent years to manage crowds. Currently, only Arches, Glacier, Mount Rainier, Yosemite, Haleakala, Zion and Rocky Mountain national parks require advance reservations. However, other parks do deem it necessary to book select activities before you arrive.

To be sure you have the latest information for the parks you plan on visiting, check out the official national park websites.

Tours and attractions

As temperatures rise, so does the number of travelers wanting to visit or take guided tours of popular attractions. Some now require advance reservations or timed entry tickets for guests.

For example, most of Washington, D.C.'s Smithsonian museums are free to visit, but a few require timed-entry passes that you can acquire in advance. Other must-dos, such as tours of government buildings like the U.S. Capitol, are also free but do not accept walk-ups; you'll need to request a tour in advance through the official online reservation system.

Disney tickets and restaurant reservations

Disneyland still requires theme park reservations in addition to a ticket. Disney World no longer requires reservations, with the exclusion of annual passes and certain promotional tickets.

It's unlikely that every park would sell out on any given day, but it is possible that the park you want to visit could run out of entry slots. Because of this, it's vital that you purchase your tickets and make your park reservations (where applicable) as far in advance as you're able if you have your heart set on visiting a certain park during the busy summer months.

Related: Tips for visiting Disney World: 19 ways to save money and have more fun

Likewise, reservations for popular Disney World and Disneyland restaurants often book up faster than you can say "bibbidi bobbidi boo," despite becoming available 60 days in advance. As a result, you'll want to lock in your dining reservations as soon as possible, especially if you are planning a princess dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table or a space-age cocktail at Oga's Cantina.

Beach and poolside cabanas

Unfortunately, you can't reserve shaded poolside cabanas with cushioned loungers and fully stocked coolers by simply throwing your towel over a chair and hoping everybody else who walks by will think it's already taken.

Typically, you can reserve cabanas on the day of your visit, but during busy times of the year, you may want to do it beforehand. This doesn't just include hotels; you'll also want to keep this in mind for cruises and water parks .

Know your rights

What happens if something goes wrong when you're traveling?

You should know what you are entitled to if a trip is delayed or canceled by your airline. Fortunately, you are entitled to certain rights based on rules from the Department of Transportation .

If the airline cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full cash refund . Don't just accept a voucher for future travel (unless you are sure you can use it).

Long delays, however, are a different story. You are not guaranteed a refund in the event of a long delay, though it never hurts to ask for one.

Additionally, you'll want to be aware of any credit card protections that may apply, depending on how you booked your trip. Some travel credit cards offer compensation in the event of a canceled or long-delayed flight.

Here are just a few examples:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Provides up to $20,000 in trip cancellation coverage and trip delay benefits of up to $500 per person that kick in at a delay lasting at least six hours.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card® : Includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance , trip delay reimbursement , emergency assistance services and more.
• The Platinum Card from American Express : Provides trip cancellation and interruption insurance * for up to $20,000 of a covered trip and incident ($10,000 per covered trip and a maximum of $20,000 per eligible card in a 12-month period).

If you realize your flight is likely to be delayed based on where it's coming from or because of bad weather, know that standing in line isn't the only way to get rebooked (though you may want to try that, too). You can also check the airline's app, visit an airport kiosk, call the airline or reach out via the airline's social media channels for rebooking options. If you decide to call and are stuck on a long hold, try dialing an international number for faster service.

Ultimately, you are your own best advocate when something goes sideways; knowing the rules and your rights will go a long way in helping yourself get out of a bind when something unexpected happens.

* Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Consider purchasing travel insurance

Travel insurance may be worth paying for, especially if you are traveling internationally. Before you invest in travel insurance, though, be sure to check if it's already covered with one of your credit cards. Many premium cards offer trip interruption, delay or cancellation insurance, so you may not need to buy a separate policy.

However, in some cases, you may still want to buy extra insurance for added peace of mind. Depending on your chosen policy, you may receive coverage for situations like medical evacuations or illnesses that cause last-minute cancellations (many of which are part of "cancel for any reason" insurance ).

Related: The best travel insurance policies and providers

Get a credit card that pays for your bags

Airline baggage fees can quickly add up, particularly for families and those taking trips that require a lot of gear or more items than can fit in a carry-on bag .

All the major airlines recently raised the cost of checked baggage.

The fees vary greatly , with most now starting around $35 for the first checked bag. Depending on how many bags you check, you can easily end up adding an extra $70 to even hundreds of dollars to your travel costs just by bringing luggage for you and the family.

Luckily, there are a few ways you can avoid paying baggage fees . One of the easiest involves having the right credit card in your wallet.

There are more than 20 different cards that offer free checked bags, most of which are cobranded cards from airlines. That means that travelers who are loyal to a particular airline can both benefit from waived checked bag fees and earn additional miles just by paying for their flights with a certain credit card.

Keep in mind that the rules vary by card when it comes to how many free checked bags are allowed under the benefit. Even if only one bag is covered, that money you save can go toward other vacation expenses, such as ride-hailing services, meals and attraction fees.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• How to apply for Global Entry: Tips for first-timers
• Top travel tips to keep your trip on track and on budget
• Tips from a flight attendant to avoid the worst of summer's travel headaches
• 30 essential travel apps every traveler needs

The Ultimate Vacation Packing List: 50+ Essentials You Need

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Our vacation packing list gives you the ultimate checklist of everything you need to travel safely, smartly, and with style.

Download this entire checklist in PDF format at the end of this article for you to print, check, and take with you on your travels. That way, you’ll have a record of everything you’re traveling with and won’t forget any essentials.

Travel Documents

1. passport.

An RFID-blocking passport holder is a great addition to keep your passport safe and accounted for. Some people also like to make photocopies of their passports, just in case.

2. Documents Required at Destination

Some customs agents are not overly keen on digital documents shown on your phone. Try to print your key documents off before traveling, if possible, including:

• hotel reservation,
• onward or return flight, and
• vaccine certificates (if applicable).

3. Travel Insurance

Don’t take the risk, even for short trips. Be sure to check the fine print of your insurance and the specifics of what you are covered for. Aggregator websites often list by best price rather than all the essentials you selected.

4. Driver’s License

While not all driver’s licenses are valid abroad, this can double up as an important document to verify your identity. As always, check your destination to see if your driver’s license is valid for driving.

5. Rental Car Confirmation

Have this document ready for when you get to the rental station. Make sure you also have all the necessary paperwork, such as an international driver’s license, if required.

6. Trip Itinerary

This travel binder gives you over 30 pages of printables to document and plan your trip. That way, you won’t waste time on trip last-minute planning and wasting time.

7. Travel Documents Organizer

Why spend time combing through scrumped-up papers in your carry-on? Keep all your documents in one safe place with a travel documents organizer.

8. Cash and Cards

Try to exchange cash before you fly, and use your cards for backup. Airports, in particular, will give you a very poor exchange rate once you land.

A top-up card can not only give you a better exchange rate at ATMs but also act as an invaluable barrier between your cash and your home bank account.

9. List of Emergency Contacts

Need a printable for this? This travel binder , mentioned above, has you covered.

10. Copies of Travel Documents

Particularly for documents such as passports and driver’s licenses, it’s a great idea to scan them in and print off copies at home. Add them to your travel document organizer for peace of mind.

Health and Personal Care

11. medication.

Medication should be taken seriously. Pharmacies in other countries may not be open on weekends, you may need a prescription, or it may be difficult to explain your symptoms in another language.

Consider packing medications you need, which may include your prescriptions and medication for:

• Pain Relief
• Birth Control
• Allergy Medication
• First-Aid Kit
• Insect Repellent

However, be sure to check the rules for traveling internationally with medications to the countries you’re going to (including the ones you’ll just be passing through). Some countries will have restrictions on the medications they allow into the country or restrictions on the quantity you can take.

12. Hand Sanitizer

It is easy to find hand sanitizer under 100ml (3.4 ounces) that you can bring on the plane. If you get one with a clip, it can be easily attached to a rucksack strap.

13. Antibacterial Wipes

Great to have on hand to wipe down taps, toilet seats, armrests, airplane trays, and any other hard services you’ll encounter, both in the airport and on the plane.

Tech & Electronics

14. laptop and charger.

You’ll need your laptop if you plan to do some remote work on vacation. You’ll quickly discover conventional laptops can be very heavy to carry. Ultraportable laptops are ideal if you have to do some work while traveling. Also, consider a padded sleeve to protect your laptop when stowed in your carry-on or if your rucksack doesn’t have a laptop pouch.

15. Phone and Charger

Remember to turn off data roaming when you board the flight. Ensure you get a good international data plan (by getting an eSIM international data plan, an international data plan via your phone provider, or buying a local SIM at your destination).

A protective phone case is a worthy investment, as your phone is such an important device. And consider a second cable charger, particularly as charging cables often fray and break.

16. Portable Battery

Portable batteries are a lifesaver on long flights. This device can give you hours of additional charge if you want to use your phone or device to listen to music or watch movies. Remember to charge it the night before your flight.

17. Multi-Charger

Rather than having to travel with multiple cables, use a multi-charger cable. Not only will you save space, but you can also charge and use all your devices from one solitary point using one travel adapter.

18. Travel Adapter

Universal adapters are a great choice over single-purpose adapters. Such a device allows you to charge from nearly any country in the world. But wherever you go, you absolutely need one.

And we recommend getting one that comes with a universal power strip like Mogics or Bestek.

19. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Great for remote working, sleeping on flights, and relaxing. If headphones are too bulky for your carry-on, you can also consider noise-canceling earbuds.

I own and love using the Bose QuietComfort 20 noise-canceling in-ear headphones. If you’d rather go wireless, Bose has some newer models, including Quiet Comfort earbuds.

20. GoPro/Action Camera

What is great about GoPro is that you can take it literally anywhere. It’s a worthy investment if you want to snap from pools, beaches, hikes, and any outdoor activities. That way, you put your phone, or an expensive SRL/DSRL, at less risk. There are some great accessories for it, too.

21. Travel Speaker

Find a travel speaker that is waterproof, with wifi or Bluetooth connectivity. I own and travel with the Wonderboom speaker from Ultimate Ears.

22. Travel Pillow

If you invest in a quality travel pillow, not the cheap ones found at the airport, they can really help you relax and sleep on flights, buses, and cars.

23. Lounge Pass

The airport lounge can make travel a far more pleasurable experience. If you travel often, a lounge pass can be a sound investment. Our guide on how to get airport lounge access will give you more information.

24. Sleeping Mask

Sleeping on a flight can be difficult if you are sensitive to light. With a comfortable design, sleeping masks can really help you get some shut-eye on long flights.

25. Earplugs

As with sleeping masks, cheap, conventional earplugs rarely work. Take some time to find a design that works for you, and earplugs will drastically reduce noise on flights.

26. Water Bottle

After security checks, you can fill up a collapsible water bottle using a free water fountain before you board. That way, you can stay hydrated throughout your flight.

27. Travel Blanket

Look for a travel blanket that packs up into a pouch. That way, you can attach it to your carry-on without taking up space. A/C, in particular on long flights, can make the plane very cold, so it’s always good to have a blanket that covers the length of your body.

28. Anti-Nausea Bands

Anti-nausea bands are great if motion or pressure changes on flights make you feel nauseous. They are so simple to use that you’ll barely notice them on your wrist.

Entertainment

29. fire tv stick.

Most hotels and AirBnBs today are equipped with TVs that have, at the very least, HDMI compatibility. A Fire TV Stick allows you to watch Netflix, Prime, Disney+, YouTube, and plenty of other services, all from one place. All this highly portable device needs is an internet connection, HDMI port, and electrical socket connection.

30. Kindle Paperwhite

Reading is a great way to relax and pass free time. A Kindle Paperwhite is a super lightweight device that allows you to access all your downloaded titles offline. The device does not emit blue light, so you won’t feel eye strain after a short amount of time.

31. Travel Journal

Travel journaling can be very therapeutic in your downtime, encouraging you to write down thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

32. Weekender Bag

Packaging a smaller weekender bag in your luggage is a great idea. That way, you don’t need to lug a carry-on around for a day trip or weekend away while on vacation.

33. Carry On

Your carry-on needs to strike the perfect balance between comfort, space, and style. In addition, wheeled backpacks that can be used as carry-ons may also be a good choice for you, depending on the trip.

34. Checked Suitcase

Always choose function over style with suitcases. Suitcases get battered, so don’t get worried about how your suitcase looks. Choose one that is easy to push and designed to withstand heavy collisions. Depending on your trip, you may not need a checked suitcase.

35. Packing Cubes

Some debate that packing cubes don’t save space, but they are worth it purely for the organization alone.

36. Clothes

Use our clothes checklist to help you pack for your vacation and leave no stone unturned:

• Jeans and/or Pants
• Rain Jacket
• Workout Clothes

37. Accessories

Our accessories list can help you pack appropriately for your vacation:

It is a good idea to pack a pair of casual shoes, a pair of going-out shoes, and a pair of training shoes if you work out. That set of three should cover you for most activities and scenarios. You can also consider the following:

• Tennis Shoes

39. Toiletries Bag & Toiletries

Get yourself a large toiletries bag, and be sure to pack your essentials. It can be difficult to find certain items abroad if you use specific shampoos, deodorants, or other toiletries. Don’t take the risk: the list below can help you:

• Solid Shampoo
• Solid Conditioner
• Shower Gel and/or Soap
• Moisturizer
• Perfume/Cologne
• Aftersun lotion
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Nail Clippers & File

Particularly for getaways and evenings at bars and restaurants, you will want to look your best and feel great. Our list can help you remember essential beauty accessories:

• Makeup Remover
• Hair Straightener
• Curling Iron
• Hairstyling Products

41. Glasses/Contacts

Always carry a spare pair of glasses. Make sure both pairs are packed into their provided glasses cases. If you wear contacts, bring more than you need for the duration of the vacation.

42. Jewelry Travel Case & Jewelry

Many leave expensive jewelry at home out of fear of loss or damage. A jewelry travel case is an excellent way to carry jewelry in a safe way. Our guide on how to pack necklaces while traveling , along with other jewelry, has plenty of smart tips to follow.

Miscellaneous

43. money belt.

Money belts have come a long way from the stereotypical bulky belt of the nineties. Nowadays, there are plenty of clever designs out there.

Aim for high-protein foods, and try to avoid foods with lots of added sugar. A bag of almonds, cashews, or trail mix are good choices. Our list of road trip snacks can provide you with some ideas on what snacks are good to pack with you.

45. Sewing Repair Kit

A sewing repair kit is simple to pack and stops you from having to go out and buy new clothes. Rips and tears are common when you’re constantly out and about and moving.

46. Stain Remover Stick

A stain remover is a great little accessory to remove coffee, wine, and other stains from clothes, hotel sheets, and carpet floors. We’ve used one countless times when traveling. If you act fast, you can not only save your favorite clothes, but you can also avoid disagreements and fines at hotels and Airbnbs.

47. Eyeglass Repair Kit

An eyeglass repair kit is essential to pack if you don’t use contacts. The screws used to connect the temples to the frames are so tiny that conventional screwdrivers are too big to fix them. Alternatively, pack a spare pair of glasses.

48. VPN Account

VPNs like ExpressVPN allow you to browse the internet via a masked IP address anonymously. Hotel and coffee shop wifi, in particular, are incredibly vulnerable to hackers due to poor security. VPNs give you peace of mind that no one can stalk your activities online.

Packing List by Activity

Certain types of trips require specialized equipment. If you plan to hike on vacation, you’ll need hiking boots. Whereas if you’re heading on a beach holiday, you’ll swap those hiking boots for beach towels and sun parasols.

These essential lists of gadgets and gear could be of use to you for certain types of vacation:

• Beach Gear & Essentials
• Camping Gear & Essentials
• Hiking Gear & Essentials
• Cycling Gear & Essentials
• Remote Work Essentials
• Van Life Gear & Essentials
• Road Trip Essentials

Vacation Packing List Summary

Don’t undertake your vacation without proper planning and preparation. Use our ultimate checklist with over 50 essentials to pack everything you need for a fun and memorable trip.

You Might Also Like to Read

• My Favorite 20 Packing Tips and Hacks You Need to Know
• How to Pack Bras for Travel: 10 Smart & Easy Tips
• How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase for Travel – 8 Smart & Easy Tips

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Keep this ultimate vacation packing list for safekeeping, ready for your next getaway, by saving this article to one of your travel planning Pinterest boards.

Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation (with Printable Travel Checklist)

Africa Packing Lists , Asia Packing Lists , Central America Packing Lists , Europe Packing List , Ireland Packing List , North America Packing Lists , Oceania Packing Lists , Packing Tips , South America Packing Lists

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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!

The Ultimate Packing List

This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:

• Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
• Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
• General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

• Packing List For Luggage
• Packing List For Clothes
• Packing List For Toiletries
• Packing List For First Aid Kit
• Packing List For Makeup
• Packing List For Hair and Grooming
• Packing List For Electronics
• Packing List For Backpacking Gear

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

• Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:

• you can write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
• you can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• and most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item

Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!

  Packing List by Categories

Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.

Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Airplane Outfit: Top , Bottom , Shoes

I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.

If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel .

You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.

A purse for travel is a must-have for a day spent sightseeing, here are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing which day bag to join you on your next trip!

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!

• Packing Cubes for Clothes
• Packing Organizer for Accessories
• Packing Organizer for Electronics
• Toiletry Bag
• First Aid (if applicable)
• Document Holder
• Other Organizers (as needed)
• Daypack/Personal item

Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest! 

Watch this video to discover TFG editor’s travel capsule wardrobe must-haves, that are versatile, chic, and timeless

No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe . These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

Best Selling T-Shirt: L.L. Bean Pima Tee

In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel . It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.

• Dress (or other) 1
• Dress (or other) 2

Visit our  travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants , stylish travel dresses , and the best  cold weather items .

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.

You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel .

For underwear , we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear .

• Outerwear 1
• Outerwear 2
• Sleepwear 1
• Sleepwear 2
• Underwear 1-10

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

Leith Dress  ( similar) |   Naot Sabrina Flat Sandal |  Rebecca Minkoff Backpack | Sunhat

Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.

Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk 4 Charcoal Comfortable Sneakers

For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.

We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats , walking shoes , travel sandals , hiking shoes , waterproof boots , ankle boots , and more.

• Purse – Day
• Purse – Night
• Sunglasses Case
• Watch (or Travel Clock)
• Gloves (if applicable)

Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.

“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.

Best Selling Toiletry Bag: eBags Pack-it-Flat Hanging Toiletry Kit

Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.

• Conditioner
• Leave-In Conditioner
• Soap/Body Wash
• Deodorant/Antiperspirant
• Body Moisturizer
• Face Moisturizer

Optional Toiletries:

• Baby Powder (hot climates)
• Pumice Stone
• Hair Styling Product
• Female Urinal Device
• Menstrual Cup
• Toilet Paper

Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip .

First Aid Kit (optional)

Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit ”.

• Prescription Medication
• Contact Solution (if needed)
• Pain Relievers
• Travel-size Tissue Packet
• Digestion Tablets
• Upset Stomach Medication
• Allergy Pills
• Motion Sickness Tablets
• Antibacterial wipes/gel
• Bug Repellant (Deet-Free)
• Travel Size Sewing Kit

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.

• Eyebrow Pencil
• Eye shadow palette
• Lipstick/lip gloss

Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.

Hair / Grooming

Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.

• Travel Size Hair Brush
• Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

• Travel Size Blow Dryer
• Travel Size Hair Dryer Brush 
• Travel Size Flat Iron 
• Travel Size Curling Iron 

Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!

Electronics

The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.

International Universal Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad . Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.

• International Travel Adapter
• Phone Charger
• Phone Cover
• Camera Charger
• Camera Battery 
• Camera Memory Card
• Camera Cover
• Memory Stick (with important info)
• e-Reader Charger
• e-Reader Cover

Optional Electronics:

• Tablet Charger
• Tablet Cover
• Laptop Charger
• Laptop Cover
• Laptop Case
• Screen Protector
• Keyboard Protector
• External Hard Drive
• External Hard Drive Cord
• Portable Power Bank
• Portable Power Bank Cord
• Music Device
• Music Device Charger

Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight .

Editor’s Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (similar)

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.

Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.

• Sleeping Bag Liner
• 2 Travel Locks
• Travel Towel
• Swiss Army Knife
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Packable Tote
• Mosquito Net
• Pillow Case
• Laundry Bag
• Laundry Line
• Travel Pillow
• Disposable Poncho
• Travel Size Umbrella
• Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)

If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post. If you’re staying at hostels, read this post. If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.

With the exception of your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.

• Passport Copy
• Passport Holder
• Boarding Pass
• Itinerary (some airlines require this printed when you have to check in in-person)
• Visas in passport (if needed)
• Immunization Records (if there are health requirements such as yellow fever)
• Emergency Cash in USD (enough for one full day)
• Credit Cards
• Drivers License / Alternate Form of ID
• Language Guide
• Notebook (to note addresses in paper, not phone)
• Pen (to fill out immigration forms)
• Emergency Contact Info
• Travel Insurance
• Copies of all travel documents (in memory card, USB stick, or stored in email)

Watch the video above for tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.

Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings, such as using one of these anti-theft devices.

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

Anti-theft products  that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!

Best Selling Anti-theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Black Messenger Bag

While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse  in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.

• RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
• Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)

Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling .

Pre-Trip Checklist

These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.

• Call banks to inform of travel plans
• Immunizations
• Check weather at destination
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check visa regulations
• Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)

Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.

The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!

The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes . When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint .

The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.

Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!

Destination Packing Lists

We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!

For destinations, please read:

• Europe Packing Lists
• Asia Packing Lists
• Africa Packing Lists
• North America Packing Lists
• South America Packing Lists
• South Pacific Packing Lists

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I hope you liked this travel packing list of things to bring on vacation! Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

96 comments.

Your packing lists and tips are the best! It’s so easy to forget an important item, and your lists help avoid that. Thanks!!

Is ultimate packing list is what help me to prepare our very first 17 day trip in Europe (Italy and Spain). I’ve recently sent it to Friends to share the wealth! I absolutely love the Travel Fashion Girl site!

Love this whole blog, this entire post is very helpful all being in one post! Thank you for helping us travel!

The idea of packing cubes was not foreign to me; however, after reading all these tips and putting them into practice, my hubby and I were both able to travel 3+ weeks in Europe last Fall with only an AWAY carry-on suitcase and a backpack that I ordered specifically to fit under the seats on European inter-company smaller planes. Thanks so much for saving us, as we will likely never travel the same as we used to!

Thank you for creating these packing list. They are very helpful.

This list has been incredibly helpful!! I have always maintained a customizable packing list that I came up with years ago, but this took my list to the next level and was significantly helpful in keeping myself organized for a recent 2-week, backpack-only, trip I just took to Europe! I have traveled to 35 countries and continue to return back to TFG for fresh tips, outfit ideas, the best packing tools, and lots of other helpful information! Thank you so much to TFG and this wonderful community of women!!

Super helpful info- I added a bunch of tops and dresses to my Amazon list. I’ve already got many of the items you recommend- one of my favorites is the electronic cords organizer. I never leave home without it!

Your packing lists are fantastic! I don’t have to think so hard! Thank you!

I have used these packing lists time and time again. They have helped me pack exactly what I need and cut down on items I won’t need. I used to be an overpacker but these lists have solved that problem!

I have been traveling carry-on only for years now (whether it’s a hardside bag or my backpack), and I’m always looking for new capsule wardrobe ideas!

I printed out the packing list for Italy the beginning of this year as I prepared for my May departure. I kept it in my purse at all times so no matter where I was, I had it to refer to when I was I happened to be in a store. It was super helpful in keeping me focused. Thanks !

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

Love, love, love these checklists! I used one on my two week trip to Italy last May and it was so helpful. Planning to use one again on our girls trip to London and Paris in April. 🧳

I have always used a packing list. It helps me know that I haven’t forgotten something and not over pack. I love the Compass rose packing cubes…I bought a set for hubby and myself. We use them a lot. Thanks for all of your tips and info…now to just get a trip planned!!

I love everything about travel fashion girl, but having these already made printable packing lists are the best thing ever! They are going to come in really handy as I’m preparing to take my two teenage granddaughters to France in March and this will give them a good idea of what they need to pack and how to do it. Of course I will supervise lol!

Thanks so much for sharing this list! It was so helpful for my recent trip to Panama. The Leith dress was a great addition to my travel and everyday wardrobe!

I’ve been working with fine tuning my packing list for years. If my husband says, “do you want to go to …?” I can be fully packed for any type of trip in 20 minutes.

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

Never j ew what a packing cube was until I read your site. You are a life saver! Now I can’t live without them!

Love lists to help me feel confident that I’m ready! Your lists and advice are so helpful.

These lists are so helpful and love the packing cube video.

I love your blogs, you do amazing research have have great practical tips on how to best travel.

I went to Italy in the spring and the first thing I did before getting ready to go was read your blog to see what I should get that would help make it the best trip.

I also try to travel with only carry-on luggage, so you helpful suggestions are amazing.

I have used these packing list as the basis for my upcoming trip to England. This is the most prepared and least anxious I have ever felt about packing for a big trip. I love that the list comes with shopping links/reccomendations as well as reccomendations on where to pack it. If you’re short on time – the most helpful shopping list was the toiletry list. It provided great suggestions on how to stay within the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines even if you are planning to be away for a lengthy trip! Thank you!!

I love this blog!! These packing lists are a lifesaver!!

Thanks TFG for the best Packing Checklist! I use it everytime I go! And this year, 2022, I’ve been making up for not being able to go for the past two years. After a cruise in March and a month in Hawaii in the summer, I’m now packing for a Baltic cruise after a couple of days in London. The destination lists for London, Finland, Norway, etc. have been so very helpful, too. I’m pretty confident that I’ve packed what I’ll need. Haven’t yet tried carry-on-only and probably never will, but I’m pretty proud that I put at least 5 items back into the closet instead of in my suitcase this time!

While researching for our two-week vacation to Munich, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I discovered your web site. I am so happy I did! Since we were traveling to so many places in a relatively short period of time, and using a carry-on and personal bag only, it was essential that I pack efficiently. Your capsule wardrobe and packing cubes were a game changer! I admit I fudged a bit and threw in a couple of extra items but never even wore them. Thank you so much for the great information!!

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

I honestly go over this packing list every time I go on a trip! So helpful. Also a side note, their subscription emails are amazing. Simply the best.

When I was finally able to travel internationally, this list was what I used to help me organize. Congratulations on 10 years and all you e accomplished- and thank you. 🙂

Love, love, 💕 the packing lists! I’ve been using them for several years. I started prepping for my 3 week trip to Peru in September. Thank you for the guidance, recommendations and inspiration!

This spreadsheet is my favourite clothing packing list, and one I recommend to everyone for carry-on only, or even just lightening the load on small checked bags. It even works for kids’ packing. Excellent, comprehensive resource, thank you for creating it, and sharing it with us all!

Thank you for these wonderful suggestions!!! Going to London in early October and the printed checklist will be very handy. Thank you!!!! Love those pants!!!! I need them!!!!

Love this resource!! Seriously has been so helpful for planning a 2 week Europe trip! Also was so helpful for my week in Montana during the winter! Highly recommend!!

I love all your travel tips! I will definitely be referring to your packing list for my upcoming trip to Spain and Portugal.

The packing cubes are a great idea, but what about wrinkles? And is a steamer able to work on an adapter only?

Hi Tammy, one of the keys to avoiding wrinkles is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and to use the bundle wrapping method inside the packing cube! You can find more tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/

I love your blog❣️ I just returned from Portugal and met a new friend who turned me onto your emails. Please subscribe me, as I’m not on Social Media. All my best, and safe travels.

Hi Linda, just gone ahead and subscribed you to our newsletters. Hope you had the most incredible time in Portugal!!!

Thank you, your information has been most helpful. Amazon.ca doesn’t seem to have any of your recommended items for sale at present, especially The Comnpass Rose Slim Cubes. I used them on our last cruise and it made packing easy before, during and after the Cruise. Would recommend this to any traveller. M. J. Sutherland

That is so amazing to hear thank you Jean!!! Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again 😢

Hey, I’ve really enjoyed your site and recommendations on traveling lightly. I’m not sure if you’re still active on here but the link to your packing checklist seems to be broken.

Hi Sara, I am really sorry about this, we are having some problems fixing this issue on the blog.

If you would like a copy of our packing list, please email us at [email protected] and we will send you a copy straight away.

I pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested.

Hi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂

I’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack. I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try).

Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂

Thank you Theresa!

Hi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx

Hi Liz, read this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-singapore-vacation-tips-from-local-fashion-blogger/

I love detailed lists – helped me stay organized when I travel. Thank you for this!

Great post! I will go to Sicily soon and this look like a great way to start organizing my trip.

Thanks Patrizia!

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

As always I love reading all your post, but this one is probably my favorite!! It’s packed with really helpful tips, it’s something I always come back to, and is in many cases encouraging…. Lol but that couldn’t be any more true!!

Yay!!! Glad you enjoyed it even more than the others 🙂

This list makes me happy! Im an excel spreadhseet list make and this is perfect for a base to customize. Thanks!

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

So in going through the Ultimate Packing List (thank you for this by the way), I have a question about the clothes the traveler is wearing! I assume that’s included in the 10 items, but per the packing list, they are packed in something. You don’t get an extra set of clothes on top of the 10 items, right?? 🙂

For my Russia packing list (pre-UPL), I listed out all the items and then listed what was going in my suitcase, what in my backpack and then finally, what I was wearing! 😀

Great job for your trip to Russia Julie! That’s right, no extra clothes for travel – they are included in the ten items. However, ten is a good number to use as a guideline but it’s okay to go up or down a few items, too 😉

Hi, this is so helpful for me so I do not forget anything. The older I get and the more I travel, forgetting something seems to happen far too often. But not any longer!

Glad you like it Gayle!

I have been using these packing lists this Spring and Summer and they have totally changed the way I plan and pack for a trip! I love being able to customize it. The main thing this did was make me think about WHERE I wanted to put everything. I then also added a little “how many times I wore it/used it” column so I could analyze at the end as well and start planning for the next trip. Thank you so much for these organizers!

Wow that’s a great idea, good job Nadja!

So excited to use this packing list for my three big trips next year: mediterranean cruise, Machu Picchu and Cairo/Nile Cruise/Jordan!!

AMAZING destinations!

Great packing list post, we just spent 4 weeks in Alaska and now we are off to FiJi. Your packing list is a huge help.

That’s awesome David, thanks!

Great post! This is very helpful for people who need help on what to pack!

Thanks Valerie!

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

Hi Isabelle, they are on the way towards your inbox right now!

Thank you for making this packing list editable! I’m particularly loving the “How to Pack It” column, which is missing on so many other lists. It really helps me figure out which packing cubes/organizers to use, how to place it in my bag and also to mentally include clothing I’ll wear while traveling.

Thanks Megan! Glad you liked the “How to Pack It” column 🙂

Excellent packing list!! This will be very useful for me!

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

Right now I am packing for my trip to Italy and I am using only your list. It is amazing. For the first time I feel that I do not overpack, that I have everything what I really need, and that I won’t forget any stuff. Your blog has changed completety the way I pack. Thank you 🙂 xoxoxo

Yay! That’s great to hear, thank you Justine!

Great post! One question: Do the clothing lists include items you’re wearing, or just what’s in your bag? Also, I always bring dental floss; in addition to keeping my gums healthy, it’s awesome for sewing!

They include all clothes including what you wear on a flight 😉 Dental floss is a good add!

Perfect timing for my trip to Europe next month. Thanks!

Glad you like it Kim!

Wonderful, detailed list. I recommend your site to anyone asking about travel and packing light. Especially friends who want to travel and still look fashionable!

Thank you Kim 🙂

This is so comprehensive! I plan on referencing this next time I travel. Thank you for the breakdown.

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

I am going to Italy in October and I am so excited to find this blog at travelfashiongirl.com. I have been stressing about what to pack. Now, I have a detailed list to follow and I couldn’t be more happy! Thank you TFG!

Love it! You thought of everything! Will use this on my next trip (instead of recreating a new list which I seem to always do). Thanks!

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

Love having all of this info in one post! Thanks for the tips!

While I enjoy all your posts, this one is SERIOUSLY the best I’ve seen on your site – or any site, for that matter! Thanks so much for gathering this all together for your readers. You’ve thought of everything!!!

Ah-maz-ing! Just what I needed!!!

There’s a lot of different types of products that need to be stored during travel, but finding those emergency items is what’s important when you’re out there all prepared! These print-out lists are exactly what I’ve been using for myself since high school, & for nostalgia sake, that original template I put together & taped over to “laminate” it, is still there slipped behind the zippered space in my overall bathroom bag. Thanks for sharing your process! It seems like a lot of work that many individuals have appreciated finding!!

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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3109 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

General Packing Tips & Tricks

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

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An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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The Ultimate Europe Summer Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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Overpacking is the quickest way to start your European trip off on the wrong foot. Charming cobblestone streets, boutique hotels without elevators, and packed public transportation mean you don’t want to be hauling around an oversized suitcase. 

A streamlined European packing list is essential—you want to look good in all your photos in front of famous sites, blend in with local fashion, and be comfortable for miles of walking every day. 

We’ve put together the ultimate European summer packing list for smarter travelers to follow—you’ll be comfortable, stylish, and mobile (without that giant checked bag).

Summer weather in Europe can be fickle, so packing a good pair of jeans is always smart in case the temperatures drop in the evening. Mott & Bow’s Slim Boyfriend Jeans are made from a soft, lightweight twill denim fabric that’s lighter and more comfortable than regular denim. 

The white jeans help keep your outfit looking summery, and by some miracle, Mott & Bow’s jeans aren’t see-through like most white pants. 

Light Shirt/Scarf

If you’re visiting any religious/historical sites in Europe, you may be asked to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Keep a lightweight scarf with you so you can comply on an impromptu visit without overheating during the rest of the day.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Dresses are the most versatile piece of clothing you can pack for your European trip, as they can be worn with sneakers during the day or made fancier at night with heels. For hot summers, you can’t beat linen— Quince’s 100 percent European Linen Button Front Dress was practically designed for European trips.

Made from breathable and heat-regulating linen, the dress will keep you cool. The removable belt and functional buttons give you multiple looks with just one piece of clothing and best of all, the dress features pockets. 

Cozy Earth’s Coastal Comfort Mock Neck Short Sleeve Button Down is the perfect mix of casual and pulled-together. Made from a blend of tencel and linen, this top is ultra-breathable and feels significantly cooler than cotton. 

The fabric uses an enhanced weave that helps prevent pilling, so this shirt will still look brand-new after many trips.

Since they take up such minimal space, you’ll never regret packing a swimsuit . There are so many beaches, lakes, and even hotel pools to explore in Europe, you won’t want to miss any opportunity for a dip. 

If you tend to burn easily, and don’t want to be bothered frequently getting out of the water to reapply, the Eddie Bauer Long-Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit swimsuit is a great option—the floral print and zipper keep it cute, while the extra coverage gives you plenty of sun protection. 

The Best Swimsuits for Any Type of Vacation

Lightweight Pants

A lightweight pair of pants can protect you from the sun, keep you covered for historical church visits, and help you look like a local (if you choose the right ones). Ditch the heavy denim in favor of something with a bit more stretch, like Mott & Bow’s Twill Chinos

These pants have just the right of flexibility but are structured enough that they won’t get baggy halfway through your trip. The khaki color is perfect for summer, and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans for the day. 

Accessories

Crossbody Purse

The perfect purse for Europe can be worn crossbody style (which makes it harder to steal), goes with any outfit, is versatile, and is big enough to hold the essentials (but not too large, since you’ll be carrying it all day).

Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Wallet Crossbody ticks all the boxes. Made from soft Italian leather, the purse will be right at home in Europe, and the quilted design works well from day to night. The bag can be worn as a crossbody, or you can remove the chain to use it as a clutch. 

Coin purses have fallen out of fashion in the US, but they can come in handy in Europe, where lower denominations of currency are in coins instead of bills. Don’t end up with a heavy stash of coins buried in your bag—keep your change organized and accessible in a zippered pouch . 

The 24 Best RFID Wallets to Protect You Identity

Keep the sun off of your face and your outfit looking stylish with a sun hat. These packable options from Madewell are perfect, since they can be stuffed in your bag (without getting destroyed) when you’re not wearing them. 

Refillable Water Bottle

Although tap water is safe to drink in Europe, it’s not commonly offered for free at restaurants (you’ll likely have a choice of bottled still or sparkling water instead). However, in some destinations, you may find public drinking fountains readily available. Save money (and the environment) by packing your own reusable water bottle, like this one from LARQ , which automatically cleans itself using UV technology. 

The LARQ bottle comes in both an insulated and non-insulated version, so you can choose between having a light weight to carry or having perfectly chilled beverages all day long. 

Pack a pair of sandals you can wear to the beach, hotel pool, and for short walks. Ipanema’s Trendy Sandals feature a minimalist style that will blend in anywhere. The lightweight sandals are made from PVC so they can be easily rinsed off after every wear.

You’ll spot chunky white sneakers on the feet of many stylish Europeans this summer. Join the crowd with New Balance’s classic 550 sneakers . The low top and clean silhouette go with everything from jeans to dresses, and there’s plenty of arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable. 

The 8 Best White Sneakers for Travel

Pack no-show socks that will actually stay up if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. These ones from Bombas have grips on the heel that help to keep them in place. 

Toiletries/Miscellaneous 

In addition to the same toiletries you’d pack for any destination (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) here are some important ones to remember for Europe:

Even if you’re not hitting the beach in Europe, sunscreen is still a must-pack for summer trips. Sun Bum smells good and doesn’t leave a white cast, so you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

A travel-sized pack of tissues can come in handy for more than just the sniffles (like at a public bathroom that’s run out of toilet paper.)

Medications

In some European destinations, you’ll have to visit an actual pharmacy to purchase even over-the-counter medications, and these pharmacies tend to have somewhat limited hours. 

Pack sample-size packets of medicines just in case, so you don’t have to waste time hunting down a pharmacy if you have a headache or stomachache. 

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleeping Pills for Long-Haul Flights

Electronics

Don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones for the long flight over from the United States. Skullcandy’s Push Active Earbuds are wireless but still secure (in case you plan on working out while you’re on vacation).

The earbuds are voice-controlled, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to change songs or take a phone call. 

Appliances in Europe run on 220 volts, while ones in America use 110 volts. Fortunately, most modern appliances (like iPhones) automatically switch voltage, so you won’t need to worry about bringing an electricity converter (but double-check your electronics before trying to use them abroad). 

However, you will need to pack an adapter in order to use standard plugs in Europe. 

Portable Charger

It’s easy to run down the battery on your phone when you’re snapping pictures and taking video to capture all the memories—and constantly using maps to figure out directions. A portable charger can revive your battery without you having to go back to the hotel or find a place to plug it in.

Biolite Charge Series Portable Charger Review

Travel Documents

As with any trip, don’t forget these important travel documents:

• Copies of passport (you can scan them to your phone or the cloud instead of carrying paper)

Although most places in Europe accept credit cards, you’re still likely to find a few cash-only destinations, so make sure you bring some cash with you.

When you are using a credit card, make sure you’re choosing one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee , as those can quickly add up.

Download Our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Europe

When its time to start packing, download our editable checklist here .

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

May 9, 2023

The Ultimate Packing List For Summer for Families + 5 Packing Tips

Whether for the summer you are planning a road trip, trip to Hawaii, Internationally or a weekend away, we have created the the ultimate packing list for Summer vacation!

As a mom of six, I know that planning and packing for a summer vacation can be a daunting task. From diapers and bottles to teenage fashion and technology, there is a lot to consider. But with a little bit of planning and a whole lot of humor, you can create a packing list that will ensure a successful and stress-free summer vacation.

The Best Packing List For Summer

We broke it all down for you in regard to our packing list for Summer vacation. From essentials, to what to pack for babies and even technology!

We have it all listed below in order of some of our favorites and down to the nitty gritty of clothing, toiletries and travel documents!

The Essentials

First things first, make a list of all the essentials that pretty much everyone in the family will need!

Supergroup Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a definite essential when it comes to your packing list for Summer. The Supergoop brand happens to be my favorite sunscreen to bring on our trips. Check it out here.

Murphy’s Insect Repellent

Depending on where you travel to, having some insect repellent might be a big essential. Murphy’s Naturals is a plant based bug spray that is great to pack. Check it out here.

A hat is an absolute summer packing list essential and I absolutely love this “Not Salty At All” hat from Aerie. Check it out here.

A good pair of sunglasses is a Summer essential for everyone in the family. Check out these popular Ray Ban sunglasses here.

Bathing Suit

A good bathing suit can be hard to find, but is a packing list essential for Summer. Above are some of our favorite swimsuits that we know you are going to love!

Beach Towels

If your Summer destination is a tropical location or a resort with a gorgeous relaxing pool, then a good beach towel should be on your list! This microfiber, super absorbent beach towel is perfect and compact for your suit case. Check it out here.

Hearth & Hand Beach Bag

Wherever you end up going to during the Summer. A great bag is another essential that you are going to want to have. I personally love this cute beach bag from the Hearth & Hand collection at Target. Check it out here.

For the Babies

If you are traveling with a baby, packing for them is an entirely different story in regard to essentials and needs.

The main essentials like diapers, wipes, baby formula and baby food is a definite must, but we have also included below some other amazing items for you packing list for Summer.

Carter’s Baby Glasses

Our little Jack is always sporting a cute hat and glasses on our vacations. I absolutely adore these wood baby glasses from Carter’s. Check it out here.

Beach toys is another must if your summer vacation involves the beach. We loves these adorable beach bucket toys for the little ones. Check it out here.

Adventure Wagon

Having a wagon for the little one is not only great for giving the baby a break and place to nap. It also is great to haul things from and to the beach. Check it out here.

Portable Pack N Go Play Yard

Having a little play area dedicated for your baby at the beach is also another great thing to pack. Check out this one from the California Beach Co. here.

For the Older Kids

For the older kids, make sure they have comfortable walking shoes and plenty of clothes. If you’re going to a colder climate, pack some jackets and sweaters.

And if you’re going to a warmer climate, make sure they have plenty of shorts and t-shirts. Below are some other things you might want to consider bringing for the older kids.

Morey Beach Body Boards

Your older kids need some fun beach toys as well. Like these awesome boy boards from Amazon. Check it out here.

Swimming Pool Waterproof Football

Are you heading to a resort with a pool? Having this waterproof football will add to so many family vacation memories. Check it out here.

Now, let’s talk about technology. As a mom of teens, I know how important it is for them to stay connected with their friends, even when they’re on vacation. But that doesn’t mean they need to spend the entire trip glued to their phones.

Encourage them to put their devices down and enjoy the sights and sounds of their surroundings. You also might want to consider rolling out our #NoPhoneZone challenge while on vacation!

• Cell Phones + charger
• Laptops + charger-  This really isn’t a necessity, but if you need it, it always is good to remember to pack.
• Portable USB Charger + cords-  these are like gold when you travel and I would highly recommend packing a  few portable chargers .
• iPads/ Tablets
• Kindle-  I know some of my friends love bringing their  kindle’s  so they can read poolside or by a beach!
• Headphones – for entertainment.
• Camera + charger + extra batteries + extra memory card – trust me on the extras, you will need them!!
• GoPro + charger + extra batteries-  there are plenty of water shots you are going to want photos of between the pools, beaches, and snorkeling. If you don’t have a GoPro I would suggest getting a disposable water camera.
• Waterproof Case for phone and/ or camera

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

• Passports/ Birth Certificates – If you are traveling international make sure you bring a passport (check expiration dates)
• Drivers License
• Cruise Documentation – If you are planning to head on a cruise for your Summer vacation!
• Luggage Tags (If cruising or flying)
• Flight Boarding Documents  (if flying)
• Transportation/ Hotel Reservation Confirmations
• Medical Insurance Card-  always smart to do in case you need it.
• Travel Insurance Info
• Cash/ Credit Cards

Clothing Items

• Sundresses  Something light and airy is perfect and you will want to pack a few.
• Cute Tops  Pack three-five, a mix of fancy and casual.
• Jean Shorts  Comfy ones for every day
• Cocktail dresses or Jumpsuits – Optional
• Formal Dress – Optional
• One pair of jeans 
• Pajamas 
• Bras – make sure to pack the types you need for each outfit.
• Exercise Clothes  (if you plan on working out or doing activities during your vacation.)
• One long sleeve shirt or lightweight sweater  
• Lightweight jacket or sweatshirt
• Shampoo, Conditioner 
• Toothbrush/ Toothpaste
• Dry Shampoo
• Styling Products
• Brush/ Comb
• Curling Iron
• Bobby pins, hair rubber bands
• Makeup Remover
• Wrinkle Release Spray
• Nail Clippers

Packing List for Summer Strategies and Tips

Now, let’s talk about packing strategies. With six kids, it’s important to stay organized.

Packing Cubes

Consider packing each child’s clothes in separate packing cubes or bags. This will not only keep their clothes organized, but it will also make it easier to find what you need without having to dig through a giant suitcase. Check it out here.

Mix and Match

Encourage the entire family to mix and match their outfits to create different looks with fewer pieces. This not only saves space in the suitcase, but it also encourages creativity and personal style.

Don’t Stress

So, as you plan and pack for your summer vacation, remember to stay organized, bring plenty of snacks and drinks, and as always do NOT forget to pack some humor and fun.

Whether you’re heading to the beach, going on a road trip, or visiting a theme park, there will inevitably be some unexpected moments and challenges.

One important tip for packing for a family vacation is to pack light. It might seem impossible with a big family, but trust me, it can be done. Bring only the essentials and try to pack clothes that can be mixed and matched. This will not only save space but also make it easier to get ready each day.

Make a List

Another tip is to involve the kids in the packing process. Have them make a list of what they want to bring and let them pack their own bags (with some guidance, of course). This not only gives them a sense of responsibility but also ensures that they bring things they actually want to wear or play with.

Packing List for Summer Vacation – The Overall

At the end of the day, we can always PLAN! PLAN! PLAN!… but we need to remember what these vacations are really for, the memories. That said, I encourage you to truly live presently and go-with-the-flow and create those beautiful family memories!

We would LOVE to hear about your Summer vacation plans! Comment below so we can read about your plans!

If you enjoyed reading about our packing list for summer, you might also enjoy:.

SUMMERTIME LAKE OR BEACH VACATION PACKING LIST + FREE PRINTABLE

THE BEST TROPICAL VACATION PACKING LIST + WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND!

THE ULTIMATE DISNEYLAND PACKING LIST! + [FREE PRINTABLE]

Pin-it for later: The Ultimate Packing List for Summer

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Summer Vacation Packing List: Summer Travel Essentials

I love summer holidays at the beach or relaxing by the pool. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, honeymoon or a girls trip, here’s a  summer vacation packing list  to help you get ready for your 3, 7, 5 or 10-day trip. 

Summer Packing Checklist 

Sun Hat 

Any vacation that lands you in a sunny destination will surround you with summer heat, so it’s good to get some shade from a trendy sun hat. 

Related:  THE BEST (PACKABLE) SUN HATS FOR TRAVEL

Sunglasses  – A sun hat will give you some shade, but it’s equally as important to make sure you’re protecting your eyes, so don’t forget to wear sunglasses. 

Reef-Safe Sunscreen  – Your skin is exposed to the dangers of the Sun’s UV rays when you’re out during the day. A reef-safe sunscreen will protect both your skin as well as the ocean. 

Bathing Suits  – Most summer vacations end up on either the beach or around the pool, which means you’ll need plenty of bathing suits to change into. 

And to match your bathing suit? A rash guard, which will offer sun protection when surfing and swimming. 

Check out:  BEST RASH GUARDS FOR WOMEN FOR SUN PROTECTION + WATER SPORTS .

Comfy Shoes  – Flip flops are perfect for the beach or pool. Make sure you break in your  hiking boots  before your trip for outdoor activities. 

Packable rain jacket  – While most of us anticipate sunshine and heat during summer vacation, there’s always a chance of showers, and you’ll be glad you packed a handy jacket. 

travel packing checklist For the Beach 

Beach Umbrella  – While many of us remember to pack our clothes, it’s a good idea not to forget a beach umbrella, which will offer some relief from the sun. 

Aloe Vera  – While it’s crucial to remember your sunscreen in the day, we all get sunburnt at some point, and aloe vera will help soothe that. 

Best Beach Bags: Chic Totes for Summer Travel

Beach Tote  – Of course, there’s no use in packing everything if you haven’t got a bag big enough to carry it all, so remember a spacious beach tote. 

Sand Free Beach Towel  – Beach towels are great until they get full of sand, so pick up one that’s sand-resistant to keep things tidy. 

Snorkel mask and fins  – Any adventures out to sea will require the correct equipment, which is why you shouldn’t forget a good snorkel, mask, and fins. 

Waterproof bag for phone  – An alternative to an underwater camera is a waterproof bag for your phone, and it lets you use your phone while you’re out to see. 

Quick Dry Towel  – After a day at the beach, it’s handy to have a towel that’ll dry quickly to stop it soaking everything else in your bag on the way home. 

Summer Vacation packing list: Traveling with Kids

Beach Toys 

Lastly, what’s a beach trip without the toys for the kids? Don’t forget to pack some summer travel essentials like these fun beach toys the kids will love. 

Cooler for Snacks  – Save money by packing snacks before you go! A good cooler is a must for traveling families. 

Beach Cart  – Traveling to the beach with kids is very different from the same visit without them, and you’ll find a beach cart is a handy way to carry everything you need to and from the beach. 

Pop-up beach tent  – For a little more protection than a beach umbrella, a pop-up beach tent will give you all some shelter to eat and relax in and get a break from the sun.  

Wet Dry Bag  – Keeping wet and dry items separate is very handy, and this wet-dry bag will do it for you. 

Travel Gear 

Packing Cubes  – Keep all your summer travel essentials organized in your suitcase with these handy packing cubes. Top Review: “Lots of storage.” 

Hand Sanitizer  – Wet wipes are handy for spills or to wipe anything, including the airplane seat tray. 

First Aid Kit  – Everything you might need in one handy kit. Pop it in your suitcase or travel bag for emergencies. 

Reusable Water Bottle  – A water bottle is another essential item that’ll keep you hydrated during the day. Keep teas or soups warm, or add ice in your Hydro Flask to keep it cool. It’s also a great way to bring smoothies to the beach. 

Underwater camera  

Looking back through photos in years to come will bring back so many memories, and an underwater camera will let you capture every single moment. 

Portable Charger  – A dead phone is never a good situation, so avoid that problem by packing a compact portable phone charger. 

Portable Speaker  – Another phone accessory worth investing in is a portable speaker, which will blast your tunes everywhere, from the beach to the hotel room. 

For more travel tips or packing lists, check out: 

BEST TRAVEL OUTFITS: WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP 

1 thought on “Summer Vacation Packing List: Summer Travel Essentials”

I was looking for some tips on what all things to carry when going for a summer vacation. Therefore, I was looking for some online tips to get an idea. I think bathing suits are essential clothing when traveling for summer vacation because you will need that when you are planning to swim on the beach or in the pool. Thank you for writing this informative blog and sharing it with us. I am looking forward to read more such blogs in the future.

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Your ultimate summer holiday packing list

Hate suitcase wrangling feel free to use this foolproof, catch-all list for a sunny, summer or beach holiday, article bookmarked.

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Some people hate packing for a holiday. I am not one of these people.

Call it frequent flyer arrogance, call it Big Virgo Energy, call it plain annoying, but I start making my list around two weeks before departure. I then begin foraging around for the essentials one week before – you just know that passport is wedged in the bottom of a drawer somewhere – making sure I leave two or three buffer days before the journey to allow for picking up last-minute essentials.

It’s an art form, I adore it, and I pride myself on being the person doling out plug adapters and charger cables to those who have not made their own nifty list.

Read more on summer holidays:

• Swap Paris for Nancy: I’ve spent a year travelling around France, and you’re going to all the wrong places
• Best family holiday destinations for 2024 that kids of all ages will love
• Beat the heat: the ‘cool’ European destinations to visit in summer 2024

Everyone has individual needs, wants and little luxuries for a summer holiday – clothing being a whole personal list of your own – but the core items will always remain the same. I haven’t included a laptop or any work paraphernalia, because I sincerely hope you’ll be able to switch off this summer. Here are the must-haves:

Everything you’ll (probably) need for a beach holiday this summer

• Passport(s)
• Boarding pass(es) or train/ferry tickets
• SPF/sun cream. Factor 30 and above is recommended; SPF50 for kids
• Phone charger (I always like to bring a back-up cable as they can be a nightmare to find if they conk out)
• Plug adapter(s)
• Swimsuit/bikini/trunks
• Comfy shoes or trainers
• Toothbrush/electric toothbrush and charger
• Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel if you’re self-catering
• After sun or gentle moisturiser
• A beach towel if you you’re in a hotel that doesn’t provide them
• Face wipes or make-up remover
• Make-up bag for those who wear it
• Hairbrush or comb (longer-haired folks and mums swear by the Tangle Teezer)
• Plenty of hair ties for long hair
• A nail file
• Sundresses and light shirts
• Glasses or contacts if you wear them
• Enough underwear for the week/fortnight
• Gym gear if you plan to exercise
• Backpack for exploring and/or smaller evening bag
• A tote or beach bag
• Emergency medical kit: plasters, antihistamine/bite cream, painkillers, stomach-settling remedies
• Any essential medication of your own
• Goggles/snorkel, face mask and fins if you have them
• A couple of light jackets and jumpers for colder nights or higher altitudes
• Entertainment for the plane: pre-downloaded streaming shows, podcasts or a good old fashioned magazine
• A camera or smartphone with plenty of space for new snaps (plus camera charger if needed)
• Books or Kindle: a summer read (or four) is an essential for many
• A Bluetooth speaker for the room or apartment
• A slim canvas bag or spare tote to use as a laundry bag
• Snacks. While these should always be nearby in an airport or local shop, having a cereal bar or two on hand can save the day during unexpected long waits
• Travel wash – if you’ll be there long enough to want to refresh any clothing
• Cash in local currency or travel money card: an ‘emergency cab amount’ of cash is a good rule of thumb
• An offline copy or screenshot of your hotel’s address and any transfer details – in case of roaming issues
• An offline copy or print-out of your travel insurance details
• An offline copy or printed scan of your passport, in case you lose it
• ID or driving licence if needed
• A reusable water bottle
• Hand sanitiser
• Face masks for destinations that still require them
• Eye mask or neck pillow if needed for flight
• Your house keys – and put them somewhere easily reached for your return!

Things you’re most likely to forget, so double check

• Correct plug adapter. This is a useful catch-all guide to different types
• Medical kit. Hopefully you won’t need it, but boy does it help avoid hours of gesticulating at the pharmacy
• Toothbrush charger if yours is electronic
• Jackets and jumpers – even the Med gets the odd chilly evening
• Enough entertainment for your journey – if flying, allow for double your airport and flight time, just in case of delays
• The liquid limit: Keep liquids to under 100ml (and labelled as such) and able to fit in a zip-lock bag in hand luggage, with larger items in hold luggage. Even though some UK airports have scrapped the liquid limit, not all of them have – and there’s no guarantee your return airport will have also axed the rule.

And one more tip...

Want to become a packing pro? Take note of anything you realise you’ve forgotten or wish you’d packed while on holiday, and add it to a rolling list in your phone’s Notes app. Next time you’ll be equipped for anything.

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Planning a 2021 Summer Vacation? Here's Your Post-COVID Peace of Mind Travel Checklist

• The article provides guidance on traveling safely during the summer of 2021 amidst COVID-19 and the Delta variant. It emphasizes the importance of following the latest CDC guidelines, especially for fully vaccinated individuals.
• It encourages outdoor activities like camping, beaches, and hiking as safer travel options. It also advises checking COVID numbers and vaccination rates at the destination, and following necessary protocols for domestic and international travel.
• The article provides a detailed checklist for before, during, and after travel. This includes getting vaccinated or tested, researching COVID activity at the destination, making reservations in advance, and following safety measures like wearing masks and avoiding crowded indoor activities.
• For international travel, it mentions that certain countries may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test before entry. It also emphasizes the need for a negative COVID test no more than three days before returning to the U.S.
• The article concludes by stating that despite the changes, it is still possible to enjoy a stress-free trip with proper planning and precautions. It also provides links to find COVID testing and vaccination sites near the reader.

First off, is it safe to travel this summer?

Where can you travel during covid, before you travel this summer, during your summer 2021 trip, after you get back from your summer vacation, 2021 summer travel faq, find covid testing location near you, find covid vaccination sites near you.

• Frequently Asked Questions

WATCH NOW: Solv It! Keeping kids healthy in the face of COVID and the Delta variant

UPDATE: As of July 17, 2021, the latest CDC guidance on masking for fully vaccinated individuals is as follows, particularly with the prevalence of the Delta variant:

• Wear a mask in indoor public spaces if you are in an area of potentially higher transmission
• Wear a mask if you have a weakened immune system or you are at increased risk for severe disease.
• Wear a mask if someone in your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated.
• Wear a mask when required by local regulations, including business and workplace guidance.

It’s summer vacay time! Finally , you can leave your house, your Zoom calls, and distance learning behind, roll down the windows, and take a deep breath of much-needed freedom.

But as much as we'd like to go full wild-abandon on summer 2021 travel, we still need to exercise some degree of COVID-caution, especially because children under 12 aren’t yet eligible to be vaccinated. What should you do before, during, and after your trip to stay safe? We put together this guide so you can enjoy a worry-free trip.

Most experts agree that travel for those fully vaccinated is generally safe, provided local guidelines are followed. The CDC has given its blessing, and the vaccines have proven to be highly effective against COVID. 

Still, wearing a mask and social-distancing indoors is smart, especially if you’re traveling with children. “Though it’s rare that younger children get sick from COVID—and even more rare that they’re hospitalized—we still don’t know everything about this virus, and what the long term consequences are of getting infected with COVID,” says Dr. Rob Rohatsch, Solv’s Chief Medical Officer.

If you’re not vaccinated, traveling still isn’t a great idea. It’s easy to find a vaccination appointment with Solv and you should. We want you to be able to get back out there!

Outdoor Destinations

“Things out in the open air—like camping, beaches, and hiking—are your safest bets,” says Dr. Rohatsch. “National and State Parks across the country are open and are a great place to avoid the crowds and get away.”

A few hour road trip is the safest mode of COVID-travel, but be sure to reserve your rental cars and RVs early—as you might imagine, a lot of people have the same idea.

Domestic Travel

You can travel domestically, but first check the COVID numbers and vaccination rate at your destination. It’s a good idea to avoid hot spots when traveling with younger kids. The CDC has a tracker and great domestic travel planner tool .

It’s okay to fly if you’re vaccinated and mask up. “Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling by plane, you’ll be wearing a mask the entire time. That may make longer treks a bit uncomfortable, especially for the kiddos,” says Dr. Rohatsch.

As of now, there are no significant restrictions based on vaccination status or requirement for recent COVID testing. However, for unvaccinated individuals, the CDC recommends getting tested 1-3 days prior to your trip and 3-5 days after travel. Additionally, the CDC states it is necessary to self-quarantine for 7 days, even with a negative test. If you choose not to get tested upon return, self quarantine for 10 days. As you can see, not being vaccinated restricts how you travel, even domestically.

International Travel

Traveling abroad is doable, but a bit more complicated. While more than half of the world’s countries are now open for tourists, the U.S. requires proof of a negative COVID test no more than three days before you fly home. Additional protocol (like quarantines upon arrival) may also be required at your destination. The International Air Transport Association and the U.S. State Department have continually updated country-specific Covid travel information.

There’s a fair amount of legwork to be done before you hit the road, but it’ll all be worth it so you can relax on your trip. Here’s a checklist:

• Get vaccinated! It’s easy to find a vaccine appointment through Solv . You’ll be most protected if you travel at least two weeks after your second shot of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or two weeks after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
• If you’re unvaccinated, get tested 1-3 days before your trip and set up a testing appointment for 3-5 days after your return.
• Research up-to-date COVID activity at your destination using the CDC planner tool for domestic trips, and the State Department’s website for international trips.
• If you’re traveling internationally, set up COVID tests no more than three days before you board your return flight. You’ll need negative results to get back into the country.
• Make reservations well ahead of time, especially for car rentals, which are in high demand. Many attractions also require advance bookings during COVID.
• Pack those vaccination cards. Keep them protected in something like this or this . Also on your COVID packing list: Masks (plus backups, especially for the kids), hand sanitizer (TSA now allows 12 oz in your carry on bag), antibacterial wipes, a clean travel towel for drying hands, and a thermometer
• Get Ubers or Lyfts to the airport farther in advance than normal and plan for potential fare hikes due to heavier traveler volume.
• Allow extra time at the airport—tons of people are now traveling so long check-in and TSA lines may slow things down.

A lot of restrictions have eased up, but still, err on the side of caution for your safety and peace of mind.

• Mask up in the airport and on the plane, it’s required. You should also wear a mask on public transportation and in any space that’s crowded.
• Wipe down your seating area (airplane tray tables are especially grimey) and ventilate as much as possible.
• Avoid crowded indoor activities with poor ventilation. “Things like crowded stores, concerts, or movie theaters can still be risky, especially if you’re traveling with children under 12,” says Dr. Rohatsch.
• Dine outside whenever possible.
• If you’re feeling sick, don’t panic. You can book a same-day virtual appointment through Solv to talk through your symptoms and get medical care if needed.
• If you’re international, get a COVID test no more than 3 days before your return flight.
• Remember, this is a stressful time and we are all in this together. Patience and good manners go a long way.
• Enjoy yourself!
• It’s not required, but to assuage any worries, get a COVID test 3-5 days after you return, particularly if you are unvaccinated.
• Unvaccinated people should plan to quarantine for a full 7 days after travel.
• If you’re feeling sick, Solv’s got you. Just book a same-day telemedicine appointment and we’ll help you figure out next steps.
• Share your fun vacation pics!

Summer vacations in 2021 may look a little different than years past, but that’s no reason not to get out and enjoy yourself. With some advance planning and a few precautions, you can have a stress-free trip. So go enjoy that beachfront cocktail, you deserve it.

Is it safe to travel this summer?

According to the CDC, it is generally low risk to travel this summer if you’re vaccinated. If you’re traveling with children under 12, who aren’t yet eligible for the vaccine, wear masks, socially distance, and avoid crowded indoor spaces.

Where can Americans travel in 2021?

Many places are now open for travelers, but COVID activity varies from country to country. Check the CDC and the U.S. State Department for country-specific information, including COVID-related entry requirements.

Are masks required on airplanes and in airports?

Yes. TSA just extended its mask mandate through September 13. So while mask requirements may be easing up elsewhere, you still have to wear them on planes and at the airport.

Do I need a vaccine to travel internationally?

It depends where you’re going. Some countries require proof of a vaccine for entry. If you’re traveling internationally, the CDC recommends that you complete your full vaccination series at least two weeks before your trip.

Where can I get a COVID test before traveling?

It’s easy. You can make an appointment to get tested at a nearby location via Solv.

• Connecticut
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• Mississippi
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• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• West Virginia

The content provided here and elsewhere on the Solv Health site or mobile app is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as, and Solv Health, Inc. does not provide, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always contact your healthcare provider directly with any questions you may have regarding your health or specific medical advice. For current information from the CDC, please visit www.cdc.gov

Frequently asked questions

What is the current cdc guidance on masking for fully vaccinated individuals, what are some safe travel destinations during covid, what precautions should be taken when traveling domestically, what are the guidelines for international travel during covid, what should i do before traveling this summer, what should i do during my summer trip, what should i do after returning from my summer vacation.

Jennifer is a freelance writer and content marketing consultant specializing in the healthcare, technology, financial and startup space with work and the former Content Marketing Lead at Square. In her freelance career her work has been featured by brands such as Facebook, Uber, Robinhood, Solv Health, Near Future, Fairmarkit, 1984 Ventures, and more.

Dr. Rob Rohatsch leverages his vast experience in ambulatory medicine, on-demand healthcare, and consumerism to spearhead strategic initiatives. With expertise in operations, revenue cycle management, and clinical practices, he also contributes his knowledge to the academic world, having served in the US Air Force and earned an MD from Jefferson Medical College. Presently, he is part of the faculty at the University of Tennessee's Haslam School of Business, teaching in the Executive MBA Program, and holds positions on various boards, including chairing The TJ Lobraico Foundation.

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Fashion for women , Living , Outfit Ideas , Seasonal , Summer Ideas for Women , Travel · June 1, 2022

Packing List Summer Vacation | 25+ Top Summer Trip Essentials

Summer is the season for breaking free and making a temporary escape from the daily grind. You might head to foreign shores or load up the family van for a road trip. 

Wherever you’re going this summer, you need the right gear from home to maximize your enjoyment of your summer vacation.

Here’s the best packing list summer vacation with ALL the essentials for a summer weekend escape.

Let’s get right into it.

Visit my Amazon Storefront filled with the best Travel goodies , for your convenience, or La Belle Society’s summer storefront for gorgeous summer outfit ideas .

Table of Contents

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Hurry and check out some of their most stunning summer swimsuits .

Happy summer shopping!

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pin this to your summer board

For this post, we’ve separated all your packing list summer vacation basics into three sections:

• The Basics (for every travel, regardless of the season)

P.S. we’ve also written a great summer resource article in case you want to know 11 essentials for you to never forget to pack inside your beach beauty bag .

1.Summer Vacation Packing List: The Clothes

Regardless if you’re taking a carry-on, or if you have a larger bag filled with packing cubes to maintain everything organized , these summer essentials should always be a part of your summer packing checklist.

If you’re planning on doing some shopping for your summer outfits, visit our Summer Storefront to get inspired.

Swimwear 

Why limit yourself by packing just a few of these summer essentials?

Bikinis and swimsuits are the ultimate summer clothes , so be sure to pack a variety of options for you to wear.

A bathing suit is the best way to dress during summertime. I am guilty of wearing my bikini with denim shorts and flip-flops all day long during summer.

Maybe you don’t like to swim or going inside the water, but high temperatures and sweaty outdoor activities have a way of overcoming inhibitions and letting you delight in a splashy frolic. Trust me.

If you’re self-conscious, seek styles that give you the right coverage while flattering your shape. Large chested mamas might feel cozier in sports-bra style tops that keep you safely tucked, while boy shorts don’t creep up your fanny when you climb out of the pool. 

Dresses & Skirts 

I also LOVE wearing dresses during summer and I always pack at least one or two dresses for all my summer travels. 

Skirts are cute as well and perhaps more versatile (just switch your tops and you’ll look like you’re wearing completely new outfits). Midi skirts are not only elegant, but super comfy and fresh for your summer travels.

RELATED : Cinque Terre Summer Travel Guide

Nothing beats that feeling of retiring your winter sweatpants and putting on your summer shorts (after you wax your ”winter legs’, that is)— I imagine that especially for those of you who live in colder countries, wearing shorts must feel like such a blessing .

(we’re a bit spoiled with the Barcelona weather).

I advise adding at least two denim shorts to your summer vacation packing list (you never know, one might get wet at the beach, so it’s always best to bring an extra pair).

If you have space, black shorts are also dynamic and a great way to mix and match and look like you brought more outfits.

Lightweight Separates 

Lightweight materials like cotton and linen look stylish without holding in your body heat.

I might be biased, but linen is my favorite summer clothes ( linen pants are always a good idea when it’s hot because you look both stylish and elegant at all times).

Look for mix-and-match separates in complementary colors so you can get dozens of different outfits from a few suitcase-ready pieces.

(that’s a trick my mom taught me on packing light and always having a variety of clothes to wear in a single trip with a small suitcase. Momma is the packing and traveling queen , I’m telling ya).

Sweater & Scarves

Also, keep in mind the climate of your destination.

Many coastal regions can have warm dry temperatures during the day and then drop to lows of 60-degrees Fahrenheit in the evenings.

Don’t forget to pack a light jacket or sweater, as well as rain gear, to be prepared for changing weather. Having warmer clothes, even during summer vacation, is always handy.

A scarf is a great item to carry on because it is so lightweight, and can even serve as a blanket inside a cold plane or restaurant with air conditioner.

Flip-Flops & Sneakers

Summertime is perfect for pampering your paws with a pedi, and you want to show off your polished toes. However, summer vacation and weekend getaways also mean plenty of walking.

Time to forget the stilettos at home and wear some nice flip-flops. As a Brazilian, I love the Havaianas (yes, it’s a Brazilian brand): If you haven’t tried them, I urge you to. They’re literally the most comfortable flips-flops ever!!

Don’t forget your white sneakers on your summer vacation packing list. Not only do they look great all year round, but they’re also perfect for sightseeing and walking all day. Wearing white sneakers.

Keep in mind that summer is an awesome time to go camping or hiking, making it another important reason for you to pack closed toe shoes for you outdoor activities.

One of my favorite summer clothes is pairing white sneakers with dresses. It’s a great way to add style to an otherwise boring outfit.

Also, a slight platform lends height without putting undue pressure on your toes and calf muscles while leaving more room for cushioning, protecting against fallen arches and plantar fasciitis.

Underwear, socks & bras

This is a given.

The number of undergarments that you bring with you in your summer travel depends on how long your trip is (and if you plan on doing any laundry).  

Take at least 2 bras for summer travels. Remember that we tend to sweat more when it’s hot and bras can get stinky very fast depending on where you’re headed this summer .

2.Summer Vacation Packing List: The Essentials

Sun protection .

Unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to your skin and eyes, and can cause skin cancer. Please keep in mind these 3 VERY IMPORTANT sun protectors:

Let’s quickly go over each of these.

No summer packing list will exist without the mother of all summer essentials: Sun protection.

Let’s start with the basics: sunscreen!

Call me a freak or whatnot, but I use sunscreen inside my house during winter even when it’s raining cats and dogs. That’s how much I value sunscreen.

Yes, you might LOVE the bright summer sun and tanning on the beach all day (I do too), but one of the biggest summer travel tips is to ALWAYS use sunscreen, especially when you are doing outdoor activities during the daytime.

Sunscreen is a MUST, and not only for preventing cancer. It’s perhaps the best way to stave off premature signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and those horrible dark spots that never go away .

Your vacation memories belong in photographs, not on your skin, so take the right measures to safeguard your complexion, reapplying your sunscreen every few hours .

Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen!!!

RELATED : OPTE Skin Review: New Device for Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots

Can you tell I’m scared of the sun yet?

Well, as a Brazilian, I take sun protection VERY seriously. You’ll never catch me on the beach without wearing a hat, and I mean it.

The other day I went for a spontaneous day at the beach here in Barcelona and I didn’t have a hat, so I tied my shirt to my entire head to protect my head and skin from sun rays.

A hat is a MUST for sun protection, especially if you plan on being a lot of time outdoors. I recommend a wide brim hat but a baseball cap is better than nothing.

Equally important, UV exposure can cause cataracts , macular degeneration, and corneal damage that harms your vision (yikes).

That said, I BEG you: please protect your eyes — a wide-brimmed hat not only looks stylish, but makes you look hella chic when paired with dark sunglasses.

It’s practically a vacation uniform. 

A First-Aid Kit 

Try as you might to prevent injuries, accidents happen, even during your summer vacation.

Be prepared and don’t forget to add to your summer vacation packing list a well-stocked first-aid kit.

Basic first aid supplies to include in your packing list include :

• various sizes of bandages
• sterile antibacterial ointment and wipes
• small scissors
• clean cloths
• insect bite remedies

However, you can — and should — soup yours up by personalizing it: ask your doctor for an extra stash of prescriptions for keeping in your travel kit and include your favorite OTC remedies.

It’s still smart to carry extra hygiene supplies, even though the authorities have lifted COVID travel restrictions.

Masks might no longer be required, but they can keep you healthier in the summer air, especially with popular cities being overly-crowded during summer vacation .

Extra wipes and hand sanitizer will allow you to enjoy a snack or at least feel less paranoid about accidentally touching your face on public transport. 

Extra Charging Cords & a VPN

Is there anything worse than your phone dying on the road? Especially during a summer vacation where you might find yourself in a totally foreign city.

Take along extra charging cords and a backup solar charger or two.

New lightning cables can cost $20 and up — expensive as they might be,, if you forget to add yours to your summer vacation packing list, you could easily pick up an emergency one at a souvenir shop.

It’s also vital to invest in a VPN to protect your privacy if you intend to check your bank balance or credit cards on the road. 

Did you know that hotel and coffee shop wifi are incredibly vulnerable to hackers ? That’s mainly due to poor security. VPNs will give you peace of mind knowing that no weirdo can stalk your online activities.

A Journal 

There’s something romantic about writing about your experiences in a journal, isn’t it? Be sure to add a little journal or notebook to you summer luggage.

This mindfulness activity lets you reflect on your adventures , exploring what went well and what you could improve on your next vacation. You can even tuck away private mementos of your journey, like that adorable official Canadian maple leaf. 

If you an, keep your journal in a small backpack so you have easy access to it. I bought myself these ones from Amazon which are very affordable, compact, and resistant… perfect for traveling.

I love that you get 4 of them (all the colors are gorgeous). Cris naturally asked to keep the one in black (he loves black)

A Portable Door Lock 

If you’re a female traveling solo, your security concerns don’t stop only with pickpockets. Try as they might screen hotel employees, a bad apple or two might sneak through the cracks — and staff members often carry master room keys. 

Depending on your summer vacation destination, double on your on-the-road protection with a portable door lock.

These devices install in seconds to your hotel’s frame with no tools necessary, keeping unwanted guests out of your room while you shower and dress. I did some research and found these ones on Amazon that are super well-rated and perfect in case safety is among your top concerns when you travel.

You can never be too safe as a solo female traveler.

A Hideaway Belt 

Pickpockets can strike in a heartbeat.

That phone you casually place in your back pocket means thieves only need a moment’s distraction to use their sticky fingers and disappear into the crowd. 

Living in Barcelona for so long now, it always breaks my heart when I see friends visiting being robbed without even realizing it. regardless of how many times I warn them about the risk of pickpockets in Europe, they still seem to find they are immune to the threat.

Regardless of where you travel in the world, an essential travel packing item to bring with you is a hideaway belt to keep your money and passport safe at all times.

Travel belts keep vital items like your passport and emergency money next to your flesh. Whether you carry a dummy wallet as a deterrent is up to you — but your most precious cargo will be harder to lift if they’re hidden under your clothes.

Cloth Recycling Bags

This is for the sustainable travelers as myself out there.

Road trip aficionados probably notice that relatively few gas stations feature recycling bins. Instead of turning plastic bottles and aluminum cans into landfill fodder, carry cloth recycling bags so you can do the right thing when you pass a sorting center. 

Likewise, there’s no need to wrap souvenirs in plastic bags. People now have microplastics in their lungs from all the pollution.

Be a part of the sustainable change by bringing cloth shopping bags . They take up next-to-no space and won’t put your suitcase over the weight limit. 

Toiletries Bag

Be it if you LOVE large-ass toiletries bags (guilty), or if you’re one of those more minimal women, don’t forget your beauty and personal hygiene essentials.

If you use special types of shampoos, hair creams, deodorants, or other toiletries, certain items might be harder to find abroad.

Don’t take the chance!

For toiletries, we’ve split them into hygiene and beauty essentials, for ease.

Hygiene Essentials

Check the below important summer toiletries for your travel packing.

• Shampoo + Conditioner
• Toothpaste + Toothbrush + Floss
• Moisturizer
• Perfume/Cologne
• Sunscreen (already mentioned)
• Aftersun lotion
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Nail Clippers + Nail File

Beauty Essentials

Summer gives us a natural glow, so most of the time we prefer going bare face and not use makeup during the day, especially when we’re at the beach all day long.

But, often at night there are many fun activities to go, from bars and even dancing all night with friends.

For that, you’ll want to look your best and feel amazing. r

Remember to pack these essential beauty accessories for your next summer vacation:

• Makeup + Makeup Remover
• Hair Dryer or Hair Straightener
• Curling Iron
• Hairstyling Products

Summer Travel | The Basics

Now that we got the specifics out of the way, let’s go o ver a quick checklist if al the basics that you might need next time you travel.

Here is a checklist of all the most basic items you should bring with you, regardless where in the world you’re traveling to.

Summer Vacation Packing List

• Passport and ID
• Money, credit cards, insurance cards
• Reading glasses, contacts, contact lens solution
• Medication and important prescriptions
• Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer
• Photography gear (camera, GoPro, drone) and other electronics (mobile, laptop, tablet, kindle, cords, memory cards, external battery, universal travel adaptor if traveling internationally)
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
• Lip balm, lotion, deodorant, tissues, comb and other toiletries and makeup
• Reusable water bottle and healthy snacks (like these delish gourmet nut bag )
• Umbrella and raincoat
• Airplane neck pillow (I use this top-rated one which I love)
• Books, entertainment (download any movies)

P.S. Here is a list with all my fave books recommendations.

Ready, Set, Escape: Packing List Summer Vacation

We hope you enjoyed this summer packing list. These are all my summer travel essentials, but let me know if i forgetting anything.

Summer is the getaway season, and the right gear ensures a happier journey. 

Include the items above on your summer weekend escape, or even for longer summer travels. You’ll enjoy a safer, cleaner and more comfortable trip.

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Summer Vacation Packing List

Checkout our summer vacation packing list to make sure you won’t forget anything..

Your summer vacation is coming closer and you haven’t packed yet? No worries. We created this summer vacation packing list for you to make sure everything is on board. So you can enjoy your trip, hassle free and without worrying about missing items. The packing list below lists every item you might need on you summer vacation. Feel free to cross things off that packing list which you don’t need or add additional items. We hope you enjoy our little helper, if so feel free to share it with you friends. They might find our summer vacation packing list useful as well.

Simply click the checkboxes of the packing list:

• Undershirts / Bras
• Jeans / Pants
• Shorts / Skirts
• Casual Shirts / Tops
• Sweater / Jumper
• Pajamas / Sleepwear
• Jacket / Coat
• Shoes / Sneakers
• Accessories: Belt, Watch, (Sun) Glasses + Case, Jewelry, Caps / Hats, Ties, Umbrella, Scarf, Gloves
• Dressy Clothes: Blazer / Suit / Dress
• Athletic Wear / Running Shoes
• Joggers / Sweatpants
• Travel Backpack / Bag / Purse
• Sun Screen / Sun Blocker
• Aprés Sun Lotion
• Travel Toothbrush & Toothpaste / Dental Floss
• Shampoo & Conditioner / Shower Gel
• Deodorant & Perfume
• Hair Styling Products / Wax / Spray
• Travel Hair Dryer & Straightener
• Moisturiser / Lotion
• Hand Sanitizer for Travel / Wet Wipes
• Shaving Supplies
• Travel Manicure Set  
• Feminine Hygiene
• MakeUp Bag / Cleansing Wipes
• Condoms / etc.
• Light Travel Towels
• Sandals for Showering
• Travel Sewing Kit / Stain Remover for Travel
• Mosquito Repellent Spray

ELECTRONICS

• Smartphone / Laptop / Tablet / Ipad / Ipod
• Chargers / Power Bank
• International Power Adapter
• Bluethooth Speaker
• E-reader / Kindle
• Camera / Go Pro / Memory Cards
• Travel Hair Dryer / Straightener
• Fitness Watch
• Travel Apps: Maps, Translation, Currency Conversion

WALLET / PURSE

• ID / Passport (plus a copy of each)
• Travel Wallet
• Credit Card & Cash
• Tickets / Travel Confirmation
• Address of Contact Person
• Insurance Cards
• Driver's Licence
• Favorite Book
• Emergency Contacts
• Travel Journal
• Travel Guide / City Map

Great! You are half way through our summer vacation packing list. Congratulations you have packed the most important things already. But this packing list wouldn’t be complete without some special ingredients, wherefore below we listed some special items which might spice up your summer vacations.

EXTRA ITEMS

• Swimming Wings for Kids
• Diving Goggles / Snorkel / Fins /
• Extra Pair of Sun Glasses
• Beach Games
• Cooling Box
• Luggage Lock
• Carry-on Luggage
• Travel Umbrella
• Writing Paper, Pens, Stamps, Envelopes
• Sleeping Mask / Ear Plugs
• Travel First Aid Kit
• Travel Games / Playing Cards
• Travel Yoga Mat / other Sport Equipment 
• Diving Goggles / Swimming Cap

INTERNATIONAL ITEMS

• Passport + Passport Holder
• Visa Documents (if required)
• Foreign Currency
• Travel Health Insurance 
• Travel Dictionary 

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE

Traveling by plane? Checkout our  Carry-on packing list

Well done. You are all packed up and thanks to this packing list you won’t miss any item during your summer holiday. So have a great holiday and enjoy your trip!

Feel free to leave a comment below in case we missed something in your eyes. Share this packing list with your friends, to make sure they won’t forget anything on their next trip, it might come in handy for them as well. Last but not least, check out our travel gear section to find a nice gadget for your next trip.

Products from Amazon.com

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Vote for your favorite summer travel destination!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

Best Summer Travel Destination Nominees

Photo courtesy of The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

Photo courtesy of Melanie LeDuc / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

Photo courtesy of pabradyphoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

Photo courtesy of Jasper Chamber / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone

Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert/Destination Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

Photo courtesy of UpdogDesigns / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City, MD Tourism

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Travel Off Path

Top 10 U.S. Destinations Surging In Popularity This Summer According To Airbnb

Posted: April 16, 2024 | Last updated: April 16, 2024

• Santa Rose Beach, Florida  
• Rosemary Beach, Florida  
• Saint Paul, Minnesota 
• Broken Bow, Oklahoma 
• Eugene, Oregon 

5. Ouray, Colorado

4. Glendale, Arizona

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

2. Columbia, South Carolina

1. Quincy, Washington

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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Google Reveals Top 20 Destinations For Summer Vacation 2024. See Full List

The most popular destination for summer 2024 is london, while paris - which is set to host the upcoming summer olympics - landed in the second-place spot..

The list features a lot of trendy and unexpected locations.

Google recently released its top 20 destinations for summer 2024. The list is based on the destinations most searched for by travellers within the US on Google flight for travel between June 1 and August 31. The tech giant shared insights based on past flight booking data and search trends with 'Good Morning America'. The list features a lot of trendy and unexpected locations. The biggest change from 2023, according to Google, is that Cancun moved down from the number two spot to number six, while Tokyo rose from number eight to number three. 

The most popular destination for summer 2024 is London, while Paris - which is set to host the upcoming Summer Olympics - landed in the second-place spot. According to ABC News , newcomers to the top destinations list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the list this year.  

Here's the full list of top summer 2024 destinations on Google flights: 

• Los Angeles
• Fort Lauderdale

According to ABC News , the tech giant gathers insights from mid-January to mid-March from US users to find out what travel-related queries are top of mind ahead of summer. The outlet reported that searches for "travel itinerary" and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January. 

Also Read |  "Hope This Inspires...": UK Billionaire Richard Branson Shares School Report Card From 65 Years Ago

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Two of the top trending "weekend getaway" destinations are Palm Springs and Florida Keys. The top trending "romantic getaway" destinations were Napa in California and Key West in Florida. La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched with all-inclusive resorts.

Meanwhile, last year, Google Flights introduced a new feature to help travellers book cheaper flights. This feature offers guidance from Google on the most budget-friendly period for booking flights. For example, the new insights could tell you that the cheapest time to book similar trips is usually two months before departure, and you're currently in that sweet spot. Or you might learn that prices have usually dropped closer to takeoff, so you decide to wait before booking. Either way, you can make that decision with a greater sense of confidence.

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Ohio town among 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation

• Updated: Apr. 10, 2024, 12:26 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 10, 2024, 12:21 p.m.

Buckeye Lake, Ohio, a village of less than 3,000 located about 35 minutes east of Columbus, is among the 15 best U.S. small towns for a summer vacation, according to Travel + Leisure. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources) Ohio Department of Natural Resources

• Zach Mentz, cleveland.com

It’s just about time to start thinking ahead and planning your summer vacations.

Whether you’re seeking a bustling city, laid-back beach or open countryside, there are plenty of destinations to choose from across the U.S. But if you’re seeking a small town hidden gem, one city in Ohio is worth considering.

Buckeye Lake, Ohio, is one of the 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation, according to a report from Travel + Leisure. Located about 35 minutes east of Columbus, Buckeye Lake is a small village with a population of less than 3,000 that is named after Buckeye Lake. The village runs through both Fairfield and Licking counties while the lake runs through both of those counties as well as Perry County.

“You’d be hard-pressed to find a village that embodies classic Americana more than Buckeye Lake,” Travel + Leisure writes in its report . “With a population of about 2,800, it’s beloved for its serene lakefront atmosphere and seemingly endless water activities. For a home away from home, book a few nights in one of its beautiful lakefront cottages . Then, wake up refreshed and start the day with a jog or power walk along the four-mile-long Buckeye Lake Dam Walking & Biking Trail , preferably with a beverage from Millersport Coffee .

“Next, it’s into the pristine water you go. Try 3XP Tours ’ kayak-biking-brewery expedition that guides you on the lake, trails, and into some of the best breweries (and wineries and restaurants) around town. Or, skip the formal tour and rent a kayak or pontoon for the day and embrace lake life on your own. Wind down with a glass of wine at Buckeye Lake Winery or head to Weldon’s for ice cream.”

Top 10 best places to visit in Ohio, ranked, according to U.S. News & World Report

2 Ohio cities in Top 50 Must-Visit Destinations in 2024 by Forbes Advisor

Ohio beach named to Top 100 Secret Beaches list: See where

Buckeye Lake, Ohio, is one of two midwestern U.S. towns to make Travel + Leisure’s Best Small Towns for a Vacation list, along with Hermann, Missouri.

Travel + Leisure’s full list of the 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation can be found online .

Stories by Zach Mentz

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Summer reading for the science-curious: 7 books recommended by Penn faculty

What’s your summer reading style? For some, summer vacation offers opportunities to relax, unwind, and lose yourself in an absorbing book; for these readers, the ideal book may be one that can be tucked in a travel bag and enjoyed among family and friends. For others, the summer months may be a period of preparation; the summer reading list for these bookworms may be geared toward learning new ideas or techniques for upcoming professional or academic adventures.

We asked some of our math and science instructors to recommend books that are accessible enough to read by the poolside and intellectually stimulating enough to engage knowledge-hungry readers. Their suggestions include topics ranging from molecular biology and mathematical reasoning to medical case studies and research-based tips for relationships. Read on for one of the smartest summer reading lists you’ll find.

Brush up on biology with bestsellers

Biochemistry lecturer Ruth Elliot teaches the fall 1 course PHYL 1200: Foundations of Life Sciences , in which students can expect to dig into topics such as cancer metastasis and infectious disease once they have covered basic molecular biology and cell signaling. She recommends The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer by Siddhartha Mukherjee (2011), a Pulitzer Prize-winning book by a physician and researcher who chronicles centuries of oncological discoveries and challenges. “I appreciate that the author was able to weave actual stories about patients and families as well as researchers and doctors into the narrative, reminding us of the deeply troubling reality of living with or dying from cancer,” says Eliot. “In this book, you will learn enough cell biology to understand the complexities of curing cancer—and most of all you will appreciate the depth of what is still to be discovered in order for humanity to rid itself of the impact of cancer.”

Eliot also recommends Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic by David Quammen (2012), a Booklist Top 10 Science Book of 2012. “In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic made everyone wonder where ‘new’ diseases or pathogens come from. In 2012, journalist David Quammen had already written a book detailing several instances of ‘spillover’ of an infectious agent from nature into humans,” she explains. One of the pathogens examined in this book is Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV), which had already spread in China at the time of publication. “Though 2020 made pandemics into a household discussion, emerging infectious disease has been an important field of research for centuries,” Eliot adds. “This book helped me to understand the multifaceted issues that cause ‘new’ infectious diseases to ‘spillover’ into humans, not least of which are the policies and decisions humans make which then influence the climate, medicine, and their ecosystem.”

Penn Department of Psychology faculty Dr. Lori Flanagan-Cato is the instructor of the fall 1 course NEUR 2600: Hormones, Brain, and Behavior . She recommends the New York Times bestseller As Nature Made Him: The Boy Who Was Raised as a Girl by John Colapinto (2000), a biography of a Canadian man who was severely injured by a botched circumcision in infancy. He was at first kept ignorant of his medical history and raised as a girl, but later made the informed decision to live as a man. “This book tells the tragic true story of a person whose gender identity was mishandled by the medical community,” says Dr. Flanagan-Cato. “As a case study, it is very informative about the biological basis of aspects of our social behavior.”

Make math more approachable

Mathematics lecturer Patrick Shields is teaching the summer course MTHS 2200: Introduction to Applied Statistics . For students curious about this course—or who are interested in understanding more about the professional and academic applications of statistics—Shields recommends Statistics Done Wrong: The Woefully Complete Guide by Alex Reinhart (2015). This book highlights real errors and omissions made in contemporary research, and explores the circumstances that allowed those mistakes to happen. The purpose of these case studies is to help both novices and experienced scientists take precautions in their work—from asking the right questions to avoiding false positives. “Statistics is one subject whose ubiquity in modern life is as pronounced as its misapplication,” says Shields. “This book clearly illustrates how hard it is to determine the truth, and how desperate the need is for those properly trained to do so.”

Shields also teaches MTHS 1000: Mathematical Foundations for Data Analytics in the fall. Students may enroll in this course to fulfill their degree requirement in quantitative analysis, or to brush up on relevant skills before diving into further science or math coursework. For these students—and anyone who may feel intimidated by mathematics—Shields recommends How Not To Be Wrong: The Power Of Mathematical Thinking by Jordan Ellenberg (2014). Ellenberg, a mathematics professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, posits that we use mathematical principles anytime we make a decision: planning how early to get to the airport, interpreting public opinion, calculating the cost and benefit of buying a lottery ticket, and so on. “Math often has an unfortunate reputation as a subject of rigid rules meant to be memorized and mechanically applied,” explains Shields. “This book does as good a job as any at showing a lay audience mathematics as its practitioners experience it, as sort of a creative play space for ideas.”

Connect and communicate—through scientific research

Dr. Margarita Tarragona is a psychologist who has taught and contributed to several Penn LPS Online applied positive psychology courses—including APOP 1000: Introduction to Positive Psychology , which runs in both summer and fall 1. Tarragona recommends Happy Together: Using the Power of Positive Psychology to Build Love That Lasts by Suzann Pileggi Pawelski and James O. Pawelski (2018). The Penn connection with this volume is strong: James Pawelski is Professor of Practice and Director of Education at Penn´s Positive Psychology Center, and Suzann Pileggi Pawelski is a graduate of Penn’s Master of Applied Positive Psychology as well as a science journalist. The book uses positive psychology frameworks to explore the behaviors and habits that help romantic relationships weather challenges and flourish over time. “The authors bring together their knowledge of positive psychology and their own experience as a couple to offer readers stimulating ways to think about love relationships, and practical tips to nurture them,” says Tarragona. “It is easy to read and deep at the same time.” Naturally, the book includes methods and exercises that readers can apply in their own lives, such as identifying character strengths and prioritizing positive emotions.

Elizabeth Scheyder is the Senior Instructional Technology Project Leader for the School of Arts and Sciences Computing at Penn, and teaches CLCH 3000: Communicating Science in the summer. Scheyder recommends If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face? My Adventures in the Art and Science of Relating and Communicating by Alan Alda . “While most people know Alan Alda from TV,” she notes, “the book is very accessible and includes some important points.” Alda may indeed be better known for his television and film roles (including Hawkeye in M*A*S*H ), but he is also a screenwriter and presenter, and hosted the television show Scientific American Frontiers for 14 years. He drew on decades of experience in communication (and miscommunication!) for this book, emphasizing the importance of empathy and forming connections with listeners in order to communicate complex or sensitive ideas. Scheyder assigns a selection from the book in her course and shares a video interview clip where Alda discusses science communication—a subject that can certainly be both complex and sensitive, but increasingly important.

These engaging and accessible book recommendations offer just a taste of the subjects you can explore in upcoming Penn LPS Online courses. View our course calendar to see the full range of Ivy League online courses available in any upcoming term.

For more book recommendations, peruse our previous features Essential reading for the humanities: 3 books recommended by Penn faculty and 5 Historical must-reads .