Your first trip is exciting - and a little overwhelming. Don't worry. This guide breaks down exactly what to pack and how to prepare, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Start Early: The Week Before
Don't wait until the night before to pack. Starting early gives you time to buy anything missing, do laundry, and pack thoughtfully.
One Week Out
- Make a packing list (or use the Packy app)
- Check passport expiration (must be valid 6 months beyond your trip)
- Research your destination's weather, culture, and dress codes
- Arrange pet/plant care if needed
- Inform your bank of travel dates
Three Days Out
- Do laundry
- Charge electronics
- Download offline maps and entertainment
- Print or download important documents
Documents: The Non-Negotiables
No documents, no trip. Double-check these:
- Passport: Valid for 6+ months beyond your travel dates
- Visa: If required (research your destination)
- ID/Driver's license: Backup identification and for domestic travel
- Boarding passes: Printed or on your phone
- Hotel reservations: Confirmation numbers accessible
- Travel insurance: Highly recommended for international travel
- Copies of everything: Keep digital copies in email
Clothing: The Essentials
Pack based on your destination's weather and activities. General rule: pack less than you think you need.
Basic Clothing List (1 week trip)
- Tops: 4-5 (mix of casual and versatile)
- Bottoms: 2-3 (pants, shorts, or skirts)
- Underwear: 5-7 pairs
- Socks: 5-7 pairs
- Sleepwear: 1-2 sets
- Swimsuit: If there's any chance of water
- Light jacket or sweater: For AC and cool evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes: Your most important item
- Sandals or flip-flops: For beach/pool/casual
Toiletries: What to Bring vs. Buy There
Definitely Pack
- Prescription medications (in original containers)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Contact lenses and solution
- Any specialty products you need
Can Usually Buy There
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash
- Sunscreen (though pack for flights)
- Basic medications
Electronics: Stay Connected
- Phone: Your most essential device
- Phone charger: Don't forget this!
- Portable charger: Keeps you powered on the go
- Power adapter: Research plug types at your destination
- Headphones: For flights and transit
- Camera: Optional if your phone camera is good
- E-reader or tablet: For entertainment
The Carry-On vs. Checked Bag Decision
Always in Carry-On
- All documents and money
- Medications
- Electronics and valuables
- Change of clothes (in case of lost luggage)
- Any irreplaceable items
Can Go in Checked Bag
- Extra clothes
- Toiletries over 100ml
- Hair dryer, curling iron
- Gifts and souvenirs (on return)
Day-Of Checklist
Before leaving home:
- Water plants
- Empty refrigerator of perishables
- Take out trash
- Unplug unnecessary electronics
- Set lights on timers (security)
- Lock all doors and windows
- Confirm you have passport, tickets, wallet, phone, charger
You're Ready!
First trips are memorable precisely because everything is new. Don't stress about being perfect - you'll learn what works for you. The most important things are your documents, your wallet, and your sense of adventure. Everything else can be figured out along the way.
