This blog post is all about what to pack for a long holiday.
Packing for a long-haul trip can be both exciting and overwhelming.
There’s always that urge to bring everything “just in case,” but overpacking can quickly turn into a nightmare when you’re lugging a heavy suitcase through airports, train stations, or winding streets.
So, after travelling for nine months across Southeast Asia, I’ve learned that the key to a successful trip isn’t about bringing everything you own – it’s about packing smart, being prepared, and knowing what you truly need.
This blog post is all about what to pack for your next long trip.
What to Pack and Where to Start?
Whether you’re heading off on an extended backpacking adventure, moving to a new country, or planning the trip of a lifetime, these packing tips are designed to help you streamline the process and avoid the stress that comes with overpacking.
RELATED blog post to read: Start Spreading the News… I’m Moving to New York City!
Trust me, I’ve been there – standing in front of a suitcase bursting at the seams, wondering how on earth I’m going to fit everything in, and realising halfway through the trip that I only needed half of what I brought.
Over the years, I’ve picked up some tried-and-true tips that have made packing for long-haul journeys much easier and more efficient.
RELATED blog post to read: 15 Packing Mistakes I Made Backpacking Asia You Can Avoid
I’ve learned how to make the most out of a limited wardrobe, keep my essentials organised, and even send extra luggage ahead of time to lighten the load.
These tips will help you travel lighter, stay organised, and be ready for any adventure that comes your way.
What to Pack: My Top 15 Packing Tips
So, whether you’re packing for a few weeks or several months, here are 15 packing tips that will help you decide what to pack for a long-haul trip with ease.
RELATED blog post to read: 11 Things You Need to Buy BEFORE Backpacking Asia
1. Start with a Packing List
This might sound simple, but trust me – starting with a packing list is a game-changer.
It helps you stay organised, ensures you don’t forget any essentials, and prevents you from overpacking.
Divide your list of what to pack into categories like clothing, toiletries, electronics, and documents to make sure you’ve got everything covered.
2. Pack and Then Repack
Once you’ve made your list and sorted out what you think you need, it’s time to be ruthless.
Lay everything out, and then cut it down. I always overpack and end up with things I don’t actually wear, so this step is essential.
If you’re travelling for a long time, and stresses about what to pack, I promise you’ll need fewer t-shirts, shorts, and dresses than you think.
Be honest with yourself – if you don’t absolutely love it or need it, leave it behind.
Check out the backpack I use for my backpacking travels here!
3. Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a lifesaver when it comes to staying organised.
They help you separate your clothes into categories, save space, and make it easy to find exactly what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase.
Plus, they’re great for keeping dirty clothes separate from clean ones!
Check out the Packing Cubes I use here!
4. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them not only saves space but also helps prevent wrinkles.
It’s a tried-and-tested packing technique that works wonders, especially if you’re trying to fit a lot into a small suitcase.
5. Choose Versatile Clothing
When packing for a long trip, focus on versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.
If you haven’t heard of a capsule wardrobe, it’s time to know about this life-saving technique, especially when it comes to planning outfits for holidays.
Stick to neutral colours that work well together, and pack layers that can be added or removed depending on the weather. This way, you’ll have plenty of outfit options without overpacking.
6. Pack a Lightweight Jacket
Even if you’re heading to a warm destination, it’s always a good idea to bring a lightweight jacket.
It can be chilly on flights, in air-conditioned buses, or during unexpected weather changes. A jacket that’s easy to fold and pack away will be your best friend on a long-haul trip.
7. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during long flights or train journeys.
Bring a reusable water bottle that you can refill as needed – it’s eco-friendly, saves you money, and ensures you always have water on hand.
8. Invest in a Good Pair of Travel Shoes
Comfortable, practical shoes are a must for any long-haul trip. Choose a pair that you can wear for walking, exploring, and even dressing up if needed.
It’s best to bring one versatile pair that you know won’t give you blisters, plus maybe a pair of flip-flops or sandals for relaxing.
9. Don’t Forget Travel Adapters and Chargers
Different countries have different plug types, so make sure to pack a universal travel adapter.
It’s also a good idea to bring a power bank or portable charger for your phone and other electronics – you’ll thank yourself when you’re stuck on a long journey without access to a power outlet.
Check out the universal travel adapter I use here.
Check out the portable power bank I use here.
10. Keep Important Documents Handy
Always keep your passport, travel insurance, visas, and any other important documents in an easily accessible spot, like a travel wallet or folder.
It’s also a good idea to have digital copies stored on your phone or in the cloud in case you lose the originals.
11. Pack a First Aid Kit
You never know when you might need a band-aid, painkillers, or motion sickness tablets, so pack a small first aid kit with the essentials.
It doesn’t take up much space and can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.
12. Use a Laundry Bag
A simple laundry bag will help keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones, making it easier to stay organised on the road. You can also use it as a packing cube if you need to repack during your trip.
Another really handy thing I brought on my backpacking trip was a Scrubba washbag. When we were constantly on the go, I was able to wash some small items to keep my clothes fresh when I couldn’t get to a laundry service. So handy, small and lightweight too!
Check out the Scrubba Washbag here!
13. Bring a Microfiber Towel
Microfiber towels are lightweight, quick-drying, and take up minimal space, making them perfect for long-haul trips.
They’re great for beach days, impromptu swims, or if you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t provide towels.
See the microfiber towel I bought for my backpacking trip here!
14. Pack a Few Snacks
Long journeys can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to be caught without something to eat.
Pack a few non-perishable snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit to keep you fuelled and satisfied during your travels.
15. Consider Using a Luggage Shipping Service
If you’re on an extended trip or planning to move abroad like I am, consider using a service like SendMyBag to send a suitcase to your destination.
I’m currently travelling to Australia and making my way through Southeast Asia with just the essentials, but I’ve also packed a suitcase that’s waiting at home, ready to be shipped to Australia when I arrive.
This way, I don’t have to carry more than I need, and I’ll have everything I want waiting for me when I settle down.
RELATED blog posts to read:
Leave a Reply