Packing is the part of travel most people get wrong. Either you bring too much and struggle with heavy bags, or you forget something essential and spend the first day hunting for a pharmacy. This guide breaks down exactly what to pack for different trip types, with links to specific gear recommendations.
Universal Packing Essentials
These items belong on every packing list, regardless of destination:
Documents and Money
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Travel insurance documents
- Copies of important documents (digital and paper)
- Credit/debit cards (notify your bank)
- Small amount of local currency
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Travel adapter – varies by destination
- Portable power bank
- Headphones
Comfort Items
- Travel pillow – essential for flights over 4 hours
- Eye mask and earplugs
- Reusable water bottle
Luggage Essentials
- Luggage scale – avoid excess baggage fees
- Packing cubes – keep organised
- Day bag or small backpack
Packing by Destination Type
European City Breaks
For weekend trips to European cities, pack light and smart:
Clothing:
- 3-4 tops
- 2 bottoms (jeans/trousers)
- 1 smart outfit for restaurants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or cardigan
Essential Gear:
- EU plug adapter – two round pins
- Compact umbrella
- Crossbody bag for city exploring
Baggage:
Budget airlines to Europe have strict limits. A cabin bag backpack avoids checked bag fees on Ryanair, easyJet, and others.
Destination Guides:
- Spain | Spain Plug Adapter
- France | France Plug Adapter
- Italy | Italy Plug Adapter
- Portugal | Portugal Plug Adapter
- Germany | Germany Plug Adapter
Southeast Asia Backpacking
Southeast Asia requires versatile packing for varied climates and activities:
Clothing:
- Lightweight, quick-dry fabrics
- Long trousers and covered shoulders (for temples)
- Swimwear
- Flip-flops and walking sandals
- Rain jacket (wet season)
Essential Gear:
- Universal travel adapter – plug types vary
- DEET mosquito repellent
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Dry bag for boat trips
Health:
- Basic first aid kit
- Rehydration sachets
- Anti-diarrhoea medication
- Any prescription medications
Destination Guides:
Long-Haul Beach Holidays
For Caribbean, Maldives, or tropical resort trips:
Clothing:
- Multiple swimsuits (they need to dry)
- Cover-ups and sarongs
- Light evening wear
- Sandals and flip-flops
- Sun hat
Essential Gear:
- High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe for snorkelling destinations)
- After-sun lotion
- Waterproof phone case
- Snorkelling mask (resorts provide, but own is better)
Comfort for the Flight:
Long-haul flights to tropical destinations demand proper preparation:
Destination Guides:
Middle East (Dubai, Abu Dhabi)
Desert climates with air-conditioned interiors require layering:
Clothing:
- Light, loose-fitting clothing
- Cardigan or light jumper (AC is aggressive)
- Modest options for visiting mosques
- Smart casual for restaurants and malls
Essential Gear:
- Dubai plug adapter – UK plugs work in Dubai!
- Sunglasses
- High SPF sunscreen
Destination Guides:
USA Trips
America has different voltage and plug types:
Essential Gear:
- UK to USA adapter – Type A/B plugs
- Note: US is 120V, most devices work but check labels
Destination Guides:
Airline Baggage Guides
Know your limits before you pack:
| Airline | Cabin Bag | Checked Bag Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 x 20 x 25 cm | Full Guide |
| easyJet | 45 x 36 x 20 cm | Full Guide |
| British Airways | 56 x 45 x 25 cm | Full Guide |
| Emirates | 55 x 38 x 20 cm | Full Guide |
| TUI | 55 x 40 x 20 cm | Full Guide |
| Jet2 | 56 x 45 x 25 cm | Full Guide |
| Wizz Air | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | Full Guide |
See our UK Airline Baggage Comparison for a complete breakdown.
Essential Travel Gear
Luggage
Cabin Bags:
Budget airline compliant backpacks and bags.
Suitcases:
For checked baggage on longer trips.
Travel Adapters
By Region:
By Country:
Comfort Items
Travel Pillows:
Luggage Scales:
Essential for avoiding excess baggage fees.
Packing Tips
1. Roll, don’t fold. Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.
2. Wear your heaviest items. Boots and jackets on the plane, not in your bag.
3. Use packing cubes. Separate clean from dirty, compress clothing.
4. Check airline limits first. Know your weight and dimension limits before packing.
5. Leave room for souvenirs. Pack 80% full on the way out.
6. Weigh your bag at home. A luggage scale costs £10, excess baggage fees cost £50-100.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size cabin bag can I take on most airlines?
It varies significantly. Ryanair allows only 40 x 20 x 25 cm for free, while British Airways allows 56 x 45 x 25 cm. Always check your specific airline’s policy before packing. See our airline baggage guides above.
Do I need a travel adapter for Europe?
Yes, if travelling from the UK. European countries use Type C (Europlug) and Type F (Schuko) with two round pins. The UK uses Type G with three rectangular pins. See our European adapter guide.
What should I always pack in my carry-on?
Essentials that you cannot afford to lose: passport, medications, phone charger, change of underwear, travel pillow, and any valuables. If your checked bag is delayed, you can survive with your carry-on.
How do I avoid excess baggage fees?
Weigh your bag before leaving home using a luggage scale. Know your airline’s exact limits. Wear heavy items. Ship souvenirs home instead of packing them.
What travel pillow do you recommend for long flights?
The Trtl Pillow is our top recommendation for long-haul flights. It provides neck support without the bulk of traditional U-shaped pillows.
