Packing Guide for 2025

What I bring in my bag has changed a lot over the years. Most of that change relates to the fact that I have a lot of gear related to the blog, but it also reflects that I’ve learned a lot about packaging since my first visit to the road in 2006.

I have learned a variety of packaging techniques over the years. I traveled big duffel bags, 60L packs, 30L packs, carry-ons and everything in between. I did it all, and in all seasons.

And today, I want to share that knowledge with you, so you can become a better packer.

answer?

As little as possible.

Packing lights are clichés, but they have a lot of truth to it. The more I travel, the more I realize I don’t need more. Everything you need fits in one backpack (For many years of recommendations that we have tested backpacks, click here for top travel backpacks.

I like to write down everything I think I need before going and cut it in half. I always ask myself, “Do you use this enough to justify my weight?”

In most cases, the answer is no.

I only take the essentials and if I really need something I didn’t bring, I buy it on the road. Finding medicines, clothes, or umbrellas from abroad is not that difficult.

They also stick to the same climate while traveling, making sure they don’t have to carry different types of clothes. I don’t want to hug my sweaters around Thailand! However, plans may change and if that happens, buy a light jacket or sweater. Hold it until it becomes a burden and pass it on.

I also like to carry enough clothes for 7-10 days, as I can do laundry abroad. Repeat after washing. When you can wash what you have, you don’t need to bring a lot of things.

What about the long answer to what you should pack? Now, below is my suggested packing list, which you need to adjust to your needs.

(Note: This focuses on travel to non-winter climates. If you are heading to a cold place, you will need to adjust accordingly.)

1. Gear

For other gear recommendations, check out the best travel gear in this post.

2. clothes

5 T-shirts, 1 pair of long sleeve shirts, 1 pair of jeans (heavy and won’t dry easily, but I wear them a lot – a good alternative is khaki) and not in Europe and elsewhere. ) 1 dress shirt (to go to a great place in the evening)

Note: I’m a huge fan of Unbound Merino for clothes. You can see the reviews here.

3. Toiletries

1 Tooth Paste Toothbrush 1 Tube 1 Dental Floss Deodorant Package 1 Razor 1 Small Bottle 1 Bottle 1 Small Bottle 1 Towel (Always pack a towel!)

4. Small medical kit

Band Aid Hydrocortisone Cream Antibacterial Cream Eye Drop Tylenol Hand Sanitizer

For more information about first aid kits, see this detailed post on how to create a destination.

5. others

Special Tip: Buy a small backpack to avoid being seduced by the overpack. We unconsciously like to fill in empty spaces, so if we have a large bag, we are more likely to overpack it to avoid wasting any space. Getting a small backpack forces you to only take essentials. It’s a mind trick that works very well!

***

This list discovered that it wanted nothing from me. I’d say many of you read this and say, “But what about X?” Or “You really don’t need a Y.” Well, it works for you and this list works for me. Adjust the list to suit your trip.

I am writing this post. Not because I think there’s one best way to stuff, but answer repeated questions about what I pack and why. This is my list and suits my “Chasing the Summer, Living in a Hostel” lifestyle.

But the real point I want to emphasize is that you really don’t need much when you travel. You don’t need as much as you think.

Next Steps

How to Travel the World for $75 a day

My New York Times bestselling travel book teaches you how to master the art of travel. What the BBC called “Budget Travelers’ Bible” is your A-to-Z Plan Guide.

For more information, click here to start reading today!