The Ultimate Packing List for Any Adventure

After hundreds of trips and way too many "I forgot my..." moments, I've finally cracked the code on packing. Here's the definitive packing list that works whether you're going for a weekend city break or a month-long backpacking adventure.

The Golden Rule: Less Is More

Before we dive into the list, remember: you will always pack more than you need. Challenge yourself to remove 20% of what you initially pack. You can buy almost anything at your destination, but you can't buy back the energy spent lugging a heavy bag.

The Core List

Clothing (1-2 Week Trip)

Tops:

3-4 t-shirts or blouses (mix of casual and slightly dressy)

1 long-sleeve layer

1 light jacket or cardigan

1 rain jacket (doubles as windbreaker)

Bottoms:

2 pairs of pants/jeans (1 can be convertible)

1 pair of shorts or skirt

1 pair of athletic/lounge pants

Shoes:

1 pair of comfortable walking shoes

1 pair of sandals or flip-flops

1 dressier option (if needed)

Other:

5-7 underwear

3-4 pairs of socks

1 swimsuit

1 hat or cap

Sunglasses

Toiletries

Keep it minimal. Hotel toiletries and local stores exist.

Toothbrush + toothpaste

Deodorant

Shampoo/conditioner (solid bars save space)

Sunscreen

Any prescription medications

Basic first aid (bandaids, pain reliever, anti-diarrheal)

Contact lenses/glasses

Electronics

Phone + charger

Portable battery pack

Universal adapter

Headphones

Camera (if not using phone)

E-reader (optional but saves space vs. books)

Documents & Money

Passport (check expiry!)

Travel insurance details

Credit/debit cards (at least 2 different networks)

Small amount of local currency

Copies of important documents (digital backup too)

Packing Strategies That Actually Work

The Roll, Don't Fold Method

Rolling clothes instead of folding prevents wrinkles and saves significant space. For bulkier items, try compression bags.

The Outfit Planning Trick

Plan outfits by day, not by item. Lay out complete outfits before packing—you'll realize you packed three shirts that don't go with anything.

The Wear Your Bulkiest Items Rule

Flying? Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane. Your bag (and back) will thank you.

The 1-2-3-4-5-6 Method

For a week-long trip:

1 hat

2 pairs of shoes

3 bottoms

4 tops

5 pairs of socks

6 pairs of underwear

Scale up proportionally for longer trips, or just plan to do laundry.

Climate-Specific Additions

Tropical/Beach Destinations

Extra swimsuit (so one can dry)

Reef-safe sunscreen

Mosquito repellent

Light cover-up for temples/restaurants

Cold Weather

Thermal base layers

Warm hat and gloves

Scarf or neck gaiter

Wool socks

Adventure/Hiking

Quick-dry clothing

Headlamp

Water bottle

Daypack

The "Just In Case" Items You Actually Need

Reusable shopping bag (folds tiny, endlessly useful)

Ziplock bags (for wet swimsuits, leaky toiletries)

Small lock (for hostels or lockers)

Pen (for customs forms)

Snacks for transit

What NOT to Pack

"Just in case" fancy outfits you won't wear

Full-size toiletries

More than 2 books

Valuable jewelry

Anything you'd be devastated to lose

The Dream Trip Integration

Here's a pro tip: when you're saving places in Dream Trip, note any special packing requirements. Planning to visit temples in Thailand? The app can remind you to pack modest clothing. Beach destination? Don't forget that swimsuit.

Our AI itinerary feature also considers the activities you've planned, so if you're hiking one day and dining at a nice restaurant the next, you'll know exactly what you need to bring.

Packing doesn't have to be stressful. Start with this list, adjust for your specific trip, and remember: the best souvenirs are experiences, not stuff. Travel light, and you'll travel better.

What are your packing secrets? Share them with us on Instagram @dreamtripapp!