Packing Essentials for Your Next International Trip
Packing for a trip can feel overwhelming — pack too little and you're scrambling, pack too much and you're dragging a suitcase that weighs more than you do. After years of helping travelers get where they're going, we've put together the packing list we actually stand behind. Not the exhaustive, bring-everything-including-the-kitchen-sink kind — the smart, been-there-done-that kind.
Documents & Money
Before anything else goes in your suitcase, make sure these are taken care of. Losing your documents on a trip is a nightmare nobody wants.
- Passport — and a backup copy saved to your phone. If you want to go the extra mile, bring another printed copy.
- Visa — Check with your travel agent to see if you need a visa to the destination you are travelling to.
- Notify your bank before you leave — a quick phone call or app notification prevents your card from being flagged as fraud when you use it abroad.
- Local currency for arrival — ATMs and card readers aren't always available the moment you land. Having some cash on hand for a taxi, tip, or snack goes a long way. As a client of Brentwood Travel, we can request local currency for you prior to your trip. Just ask your travel agent, and we can take care of the details!
Health & Medications
- Prescription medications — bring enough for your trip plus an extra day or two. Delays happen, and running out of medication in an unfamiliar city is a stressful situation you can easily avoid.
- For international trips especially: pack an extra outfit, your medications, and basic toiletries in your carry-on. If your checked bag gets delayed or lost and you get stuck overnight, you'll have everything you need to get by.
Technology
Staying connected is no longer a luxury — it's part of traveling safely and confidently. A little prep here saves a lot of frustration.
- Power adapter / plugs for your destination — outlets vary by country, and not every hotel has universal adapters. Look up your destination before you pack.
- VPN / eSIM / WhatsApp — download a VPN for secure browsing on public WiFi, set up an eSIM for affordable data abroad, and get on WhatsApp so you can message internationally for free. Also worth a quick call to your phone provider to ask about international plans before you leave. Ultimately what you decide to do with your phone is up to you. But having service in a foreign country is important today.
- Power bank — your phone is your map, your camera, your boarding pass, and your translator. A portable charger is non-negotiable.
- Earbuds or noise-canceling headphones — for long flights, layovers, or just some peace and quiet. One of the best travel investments you can make.
Comfort & Smart Extras
- Snacks — airport and airplane food is expensive and often not great. Pack something you actually like for the journey.
- Compression socks — especially important for flights over four hours. They improve circulation and help you arrive feeling better than you otherwise would.
- Electrolytes —- Flying really dehydrates you. Adding a Liquid IV or something similar will help you get back to your hydrated self faster than just drinking water.
- Luggage scale — avoid the dreaded overweight bag fee at check-in. A small handheld digital scale is cheap and saves you from repacking at the airport.
- An extra bag for souvenirs — a foldable duffel or tote that packs flat in your suitcase means you don't have to choose between your new finds and your clothes on the way home.
Clothes & Shoes
This is where most people overpack. A little strategy goes a long way.
- Comfortable walking shoes you have already broken in — never, ever wear new shoes on a trip. Blisters can derail even the best itinerary.
- A light layer or jacket, regardless of your destination — planes, restaurants, and museums are almost always cold even in warm climates.
- A packable bag for day trips and shopping — a lightweight tote or crossbody that folds into your suitcase is useful once you arrive.
Organization & Laundry
- Packing cubes — a game changer for staying organized. Everything has a place, and you can find what you need without digging through your entire bag.
- Foldable laundry bag and shoe bag — keep worn clothes and shoes away from clean items. Small detail, big difference.
- Packable rain jacket, umbrella, or poncho — weather is unpredictable. A packable rain layer takes up almost no space and you'll be glad you have it.
- Laundry detergent sheets — flat, lightweight, and TSA-friendly. Toss a few in your bag and you can do a quick load of laundry if your hotel offers it, or even use to sink wash without hauling liquid detergent.
Of course, every destination is different — and knowing exactly what to bring (or leave behind) is where a travel agent makes all the difference. From destination-specific tips to visa requirements and local customs, your agent has the knowledge to help you pack with confidence. Never hesitate to reach out with questions, no matter how small. That's what we're here for. And to make things even easier, click the button below to download and print our complete packing checklist — so you can check things off as you go and never leave home without the essentials.
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