What to pack for an international trip: 7 tips

Planning your next getaway can be fun and exciting, especially if you’re visiting a new country on your bucket list. But before you head out, you’ll need to pack. 

These packing tips can help you prepare for your next trip like a pro. Find out what to bring, what to leave behind and how to handle long travel days.

What you’ll learn:

• Plan ahead by researching your destination, creating a packing checklist and bringing entertainment for the flight.

• Staying organized and planning to do laundry during your trip can help you avoid the temptation to overpack. 

• Use a travel credit card to earn rewards and use benefits that can improve your travel experience.

As soon as you know where you’re headed, do some research to prepare for your trip. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Local government requirements: You may need to apply for a travel visa in advance or bring certain vaccination cards. Check official government websites for the most up-to-date information.

• Language basics: If you don’t already speak the language, learn key phrases like “please” and “thank you.” Consider downloading an app to translate text and speech.

• Time of year: Check the weather forecast to help you decide what clothes to pack. Also, check to see whether you’re visiting during peak travel season, as prices may be higher.

• Cultural norms: Some countries may have cultural expectations for dress, especially when visiting religious sites. Make sure you know what to expect and pack accordingly. 

• Payment methods: Find out whether credit cards are widely accepted or whether you’ll need to carry local currency.

Packing to travel overseas might call for different essentials than a domestic getaway will. Here are a few tips on what to pack for a trip abroad:

Putting together a checklist can help you stay organized as you pack for international travel. Here’s a list to get you started:

• Passport and travel documents

• Universal adapter or converter plug for electronics

• Luggage tracker for checked bags

• Reusable folding water bottle

• Solid toiletries, like a shampoo bar, to avoid leaks and save space

• Packing cubes to keep your suitcase organized 

• Resealable plastic bags to contain potential spills

Some countries have rules on what you can bring in, so you’ll want to leave any restricted items at home. For example, some countries don’t allow you to bring in fresh fruit or vegetables. Your research can help you figure out what not to pack.

Avoid packing anything that could spill in your bag, like food and beverages or other liquids. A leak could damage clothes, electronics and other gear. If you have to bring liquids, consider putting them in resealable bags before packing them in your toiletry kit.

Some hotels provide a hair dryer either in the room or on request, so you may be able to leave yours at home. If you prefer to bring your own, be sure to pack an adapter and a voltage converter.

Bringing a single backpack or carry-on makes it easier to move through crowded airports and city streets. If you keep your bags with you during your travel, you might be able to skip baggage claim and worry less about lost luggage. 

Depending on how long you’ll be away, the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method could help lighten your suitcase. The rule says to pack five pairs of underwear and socks, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one destination-specific item, like a swimsuit, hat, scarf or jacket.

When choosing what clothing to pack, make sure everything is comfortable and versatile. Think shoes that are already broken in and clothing items that can be mixed and matched to make many different outfits. Lightweight layers, wrinkle-resistant fabrics and a neutral color palette may help you stay adaptable and avoid overpacking.

Longer trips abroad might tempt you to pack more; in a pinch, you may be able to buy what you need locally if your destination isn’t too remote. Your new item can even double as a souvenir from your trip.

Planning a laundry day during your trip can reduce how much clothing you need to pack. Before you leave, research nearby laundromats, including hours of operation, payment options and reviews.

When traveling internationally, your travel documents are some of the most important items to pack. Without them, you may be denied boarding or entry to your destination. But keep in mind that the documents you need depend on whom you’re traveling with and the rules at your destination. 

Here are a few types of documents you may need:

• A passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates

• Vaccination records

• Travel insurance documents

• A copy of your itinerary and addresses of where you’ll be staying 

• Your driver’s license and proof of car insurance if you’re renting a car or driving abroad

• Emergency contacts and local embassy information

• A travel visa

• A consent form for traveling with a child 

• Pet travel documents, such as health certificates and proof of vaccinations

Here are a few things that might help keep you cozy on a long flight:

• A travel pillow

• Noise-canceling headphones

• An eye mask 

• A portable power bank and charger

• Pressure-relief earplugs or gum

Before you leave, double-check that your carry-on bag and personal item have everything you need for the flight. And consider downloading e-books, podcasts, TV shows and movies for entertainment ahead of your flight.

Even seasoned travelers can feel flustered at the airport. Here’s a quick refresher to help your trip go smoothly:

• Review baggage rules: Check your airline’s baggage policies ahead of time, including size limits, weight limits and fees. You may also want to review international travel packing rules, like liquid limits and prohibited items. For carry-on liquids, each item typically must be in a 3.4-ounce container and fit into a single clear one-quart bag.

• Check in as early as possible: You can generally check in 24 hours before your flight.

• Don’t push your timing: For international flights, plan to arrive about three hours before departure to allow time for check-in and security. 

• Use trusted traveler programs: If you have TSA PreCheck®, use it on all domestic flights to streamline the airport security process. If you have Global Entry, use it when returning to the U.S.

Luggage can get lost, delayed or damaged on any flight. But the risk of mishandled luggage increases eightfold when traveling internationally, according to SITA, the IT provider for the air transport industry. 

Planning ahead can help minimize the hassle if something goes wrong. Here are a few tips:

• Keep essentials within reach. If you have to check a bag, pack valuables, medications, travel documents and a change of clothes in your carry-on or personal item.

• Use a credit card with travel insurance. Some cards offer protection for baggage delays, loss or damage. Check your card’s benefits to learn more.

• Choose flights with fewer layovers. Reducing the number of connections lowers the chance of lost luggage during transfers.

Packing for international travel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or an extended stay abroad, a little preparation can go a long way. With the right travel packing tips, you can stay organized and feel confident heading into your trip.

Using a credit card internationally is a convenient way to pay for expenses without converting cash into local currency. Plus, many cards come with security features to help protect you against fraud. And travel credit cards like the Capital One Venture X card and the Capital One Venture card offer benefits to help you elevate your travel experience and earn rewards. Explore how a travel rewards credit card from Capital One can elevate your next adventure.