Here’s a helpful list of what to pack for your trip
I developed this list because there were items I simply forgot while traveling to Mexico, Costa Rica and Bermuda. I took notes with every trip and compiled this to make packing easier for you. Save this post as a checklist for your future adventures.
- Passport, Visa, Travel insurance documents, driver’s license
- $1, $5, $10 bills: I actually asked the bank to give me two hundred $1 bills (no joke), another one hundred made up of $5 bills, and finally fifty $10 bills. I sort the cash in different envelopes and hide them in different areas: my purse, clothing pockets, or my carry-on bag just in case something goes missing, there’s a backup in other locations. The smaller bills help me tip, and it’s easier to pay when I have USD to give. This also ensures I don’t lose any money exchanging currency for certain areas where the going rate doesn’t exactly match the real or international value. I’ve never had a problem paying with cash; most foreign local businesses prefer it.
- Credit card with NO foreign transaction fees: For bigger purchases, I pay by credit card so I can to accumulate points and miles for my next trip. Make sure to check into the features of the card, but I’ve had good luck using the Chase Visa, which also accumulates points towards other travel perks!
- Extra phone charger, battery booster: I keep one in my purse and one in my carry-on luggage bag.
- Headphones: I’m not sure why, but I’ve forgotten these a few times.
- Sunglasses/hat: There’s nothing worse than walking around in blinding sunlight without sunglasses, especially for those who are more sensitive to light because of contact lens.
- Water bottle: Better yet, find a water bottle that filters water. This one’s crucial depending on the country you’re traveling.
- Bug Spray: Mosquito bites are the worst. Oddly, bug spray is difficult to find, and it can get expensive.
- Allergy Meds: I prefer Zyrtec, but Benadryl could be a life-saver. Don’t forget some Benadryl formulas could make you very drowsy. I also like to take some non-drowsy Dramamine, just in case the adventures get a little wild.
- Medication: Order refills ahead of time as needed, and bring extra. This one’s a reminder.
- Deodorant – This one speaks for itself.
- Toothbrush / Toothpaste
- Nail clippers, tweezers, and/or tiny scissors: There have been too many times a hike leads me to a painful splinter or a hang-nail.
- Plastic grocery bags or trash bags: This is useful for receipts and any printable tickets, etc. It keeps items from getting wet and it helps you find everything quicker. You never know when shampoo will spill, or you if want to throw in some dirty laundry in a plastic bag to keep it separate from your other items.
- Emergen-C: Bring a few packets in case you need it after your flight, or if you feel under-the-weather during your trip.
- Ibuprofen: Travel size is the best.
- Spare contact lens / extra contact solution: My contact lens ripped when traveling in New Orleans. Having to wear glasses in the rain made me incredibly grumpy.
- A plug adapter: Depending on where you’re traveling, this is a good back-up.
- At least one pen: I leave a pen in jackets or purse/backpack pockets. It’s also for my journal-writing, but a quick scribbling down of notes or information is incredibly helpful while you’re on the road.
- Protein bars: I usually buy KIND snacks and Think Thin protein bars. Cliff Bar and Lara Bars are also popular with travelers.
- Q-tips: So underrated, and yet, so good to have.
- A good book, as needed: Having a real paperback or hardcover is great when you don’t want to use electronics. Need some ideas? Here are some of my favorites.
- Wet wipes: A little more useful in some countries than others.
- Hand sanitizer: I skip this one, but maybe you need it.
- Earplugs: as needed.
- Eye mask: This one depends on your sleeping preference.
- Socks: Extra pairs because they’re way too easy to muddy or lose.
- Two pairs of shoes: This one’s just a practical suggestion if you have a small carry-on. I usually do tennis shoes and also comfortable sandals. Sometimes I use comfortable hiking sandals just in case. If so, have a pair of slightly nicer shoes.
- Swimsuit: Depending on the country or the hotel; you never know.
- Business cards: Perfect for the friends or contacts I make and want to keep in touch. My new technique is to also add other travelers on Instagram or Facebook when I can. This also helps me come up with other ideas when I’m able to see where other solo travelers, couples or families are going. Remember how I said solo travel doesn’t mean you’re alone? Bring some business cards.
Don’t forget before you leave:
- Clean out your refrigerator for anything that will go bad.
- Take out the trash.
- Pay any bills — credit card, utilities, whatever you need before you go.
- Download Waze or Google Maps: Make sure you set-up the Offline mode in case you don’t have cell phone or wireless reception. You’ll have to look into how to download the map for the specific country and location.
- Update any e-readers, podcasts, audiobooks, or TV shows and movies on your apps. Also, download the off-line music option for Spotify. These have been great for long drives.
- Turn on that auto vacation responder on your email! For safety reasons, it’s okay to let people know you’ll be away from cell phone service (or the office) and you’ll get back to them soon.
- Take a photo of your car at a park-n-ride. You’re just not going to remember where after your trip back.
- I have a weird thing where I like to just clean the house before I leave, which makes it more welcoming when I return. Just a suggestion.
Have more suggestions? Leave a comment below!
