Packing tips for international travel

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, other countries offer exciting possibilities. Packing for your trip may not offer the same thrill. But if you start with an idea about what you’ll need—travel documents, weather-appropriate gear and the right luggage—you can spend more time picturing all the fun that’s to come.

What you’ll learn:

• You can plan ahead by looking into 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. 
• Travel credit cards could offer benefits that can improve your travel experience and make your trip more rewarding.

Breaking things down bit by bit can help them feel more manageable. Wherever you’re going, here are some tips for getting started.

Once you know where you’re headed, it’s research time. Knowing what to pack starts with knowing what you need. Depending on your destination, you may need to:

• Apply for a travel visa
• Bring vaccination cards  
• Check the local forecast
• Understand cultural expectations for dress, especially when visiting religious sites

The Department of State maintains an international travel checklist you can start with.

Putting together a checklist can help you stay organized and stress free. These are a few things you can jot down. You can pull from the initial research you did on documentation and then build from there with things like:

• Prescription medications

• Universal adapter or converter plug for electronics

• Luggage tracker for checked bags

• Reusable folding water bottle

• Travel toiletries that are 3.4 fluid ounces or less in order to align with Transportation Security Administration rules

• Packing cubes to keep your suitcase organized 

• Resealable plastic bags to contain potential spills

What you don’t bring can be as important as what winds up in your luggage. Leaving behind unnecessary items could save you hassles, leave room to bring back souvenirs and keep your bags at manageable weights.

• Some countries don’t allow visitors to bring in fresh fruit or vegetables. But if you’re packing food, beverages or cosmetics that could spill, a leak could damage your clothes, electronics and other gear. Resealable bags could help keep things contained though.

• 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, don’t forget to check whether you need an adapter and a voltage converter.

Once you know what to bring and what to leave behind, you can choose the luggage to hold it all. 

Bag dimensions and sizing requirements typically vary by airline. Knowing this info in advance could help you avoid checking an additional bag or paying extra fees for exceeding weight limits. 

U.S. News & World Report provides common dimensions for:

• Checked bag weight: 50 pounds

• Checked luggage size: 62 inches 

• Carry-on luggage size: 22 by 14 by 9 inches

The site also has helpful lists of checked luggage weights and dimensions and carry-on sizing for individual airlines.

If you’re after practicality, broken-in shoes, mix-and-match tops and bottoms, and the ability to layer your clothes can help you dress for multiple conditions and avoid discomfort. Checking the forecast closer to your departure can give you an idea of just how many layers you might need.

If your international trip is under two weeks, limiting yourself to a backpack or carry-on bag could make 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. 

The 5-4-3-2-1 packing method offers a template to lighten your suitcase. The minimalist rule says to pack: 

• 5 pairs of underwear and socks

• 4 tops

• 3 bottoms

• 2 pairs of shoes

• 1 destination-specific item, such as a swimsuit, hat, scarf or jacket

Planning a laundry day during your trip can reduce how much clothing you need to pack. Some hotels offer access to laundry facilities. You can also research nearby laundromats, including hours of operation, payment options and reviews.

Some items are best kept out of checked luggage so you have immediate access to them. 

Without travel documents, you could be denied boarding or entry to your destination. Instead of the overhead compartment, consider keeping them on you or in a personal item that doesn’t leave your sight.

Here are a few types of documents you may need to keep handy.

• Passports

• Travel visas

• Vaccination records

• Insurance

• Identification, such as a driver’s license, IDP if needed, and proof of car insurance if you’re renting a car or driving abroad

• Emergency contacts and local embassy information

• Consent forms for traveling with children 

• Pet records, such as health certificates and proof of vaccinations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends preparing a travel health kit when traveling internationally. The agency says to include prescription and over-the-counter medications. What’s readily available may vary, depending on your destination. The CDC’s destinations page has local recommendations.

If you’re going to be sitting for hours, you may as well be comfortable. Here are a few things that might help keep you cozy during a long flight.

• Travel pillow

• Noise-canceling headphones

• Eye mask 

• Portable power bank and chargers

• Pressure-relief earplugs or gum

Downloading e-books, podcasts, TV shows and movies could give you access to entertainment without having to worry about Wi-Fi or airline offerings.

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended stay abroad, a little preparation can go a long way. Following the right travel packing tips can help you stay organized and feel confident heading into your trip.

And a travel credit card, like Capital One Venture X or Venture, could help you elevate your next international travel experience and earn rewards while you do it.