You’ll of course (hopefully) remember the essentials like your passport, but what about the nice-to-haves? This list of things to pack is filled with simple items, but they can end up saving you time and money on your trip.
We hope this helps prepare you for your trip!
1. Space Bag Roll-up Travel Bags
Not something you should “pack” per se, but something you should definitely “pack with.” These Ziploc Space Bags got us through a two-week vacation around Iceland (read: big boots and puffy jackets) in carry-on luggage. Our hack to “packing light.” 🙂
2. Portable Wi-fi
If you’re traveling out of the country, getting a portable wi-fi is key! This saved us on several occassions trying to navigate Google Maps through foreign cities.
There are different options depending on what country you’re journeying to, so be sure to do some research before. Most of the options are extremely convenient with designated pick up and drop off points at the airport or nearby gas stations.
In Italy, we used ExpressoWifi and in Iceland, we used Trawire.
3. Portable Chargers
And with all your gadgets and gizmos (portable wi-fi, phones, cameras), don’t forget to pack a portable charger! Another life saver to ensure you never run out of juice as you’re out and about exploring new places.
Our favorite portable charger is Mophie – we have the powerstation plus 3X and Eric uses the juice pack air for his phone case.
4.Travel Size Bottle of Laundry Detergent
This one might sound a little weird, but definitely one of our tips that’ll help you pack light (mid-trip laundry sesh) and stay clean (Gelato spill? No problem!). All you have to do is grab one of those 99 cent travel bottles from the store and put laundry detergent in one.
While you’re at it, throw in a Tide To Go Stain Eraser!
Travel Tip:
Looking for a way to save money on travel? Find an Airbnb with a washer!
5. Medicine
We’ve been on many trips where one of us ends up coming down with a cold. It’s hard to avoid when you’re traveling on planes, boats, and trains in a foreign country.
So, don’t forget to pack an emergency stash of cold and flu medicine to help you keep up with your trip itinerary!
6. First Aid Supplies
Blisters will happen, so be sure to throw some bandages and an antibiotic ointment into your suitcase. These basic first aid supplies always seem to be overpriced at travel destinations, so you’ll be thankful when you don’t have to spend an extra $5 (save it for a sweet treat instead).
8. Copies of Travel Documents
I know, the last thing you want to do is head to your nearest Staples to take a photocopy of your passport. However, this inconvenient errand can really be a life saver in the off chance your passport or other important travel documents get lost or stolen.
Travel Tip:
Email yourself a scan of the documents and swap photocopies with your travel partner so that if you lose one, you’ll likely have access to a backup.
9. Plug Adapters
This was something we almost forgot on our first international trip. Don’t forget to research what types of plug adapters you’ll need for the country you’re visiting.
10. Emergency Snacks
I don’t think I’m the only one guilty of getting “hangry.” To limit this occurrence, pack some granola bars for your trip. Trust me when I say these will save the day on those long flights and full days of exploring.
We’d love to hear, what are some of the items on your list of things to pack for an international trip? Tell us in the comments below!
