First, take a deep breath. Your suitcase will get packed, you will get the chance to squeeze every last necessity in there, and you will NOT [fingers crossed] forget your favorite top! Prior to packing, I found this handy travel list to go off of – granted I am only traveling with a carry on so most of the goodies on that list did not end up in my suitcase.

Here is what I chose as most important to pack in my personal bag aside from my carry-on.
The Necessities [in your personal bag]:
- PASSPORT! (Double check it is valid 6 months after your trip)
- Sunnies
- Camera
- Sketch book
- Pens/pencils to write with
- Tablet/Ipad (With copies of all legal documents and maps for cities you’re visiting)
- Boarding Pass(es)
- Legal ID’s (student and state)
- Phone and chargers
- Earphones
- Converters
- Snacks for the flight
- Prescriptions
- A change of clothes (In case your baggage is delayed)
- Neck Pillow (This is the one I have, and I love it!)
The Important Stuff:
- Pack for a week of outfits, and re-wear them to save space
- Undies
- Bras (T-shirt, strapless, and workout)
- 5 tops/blouses
- 2 dresses
- 2 pairs of shorts
- 1 pair of jeans
- 3 pairs of socks
- 1 rain jacket/windbreaker
- 1 sweater
- 1 flannel
- 1 formal outfit
- 1 “going out” outfit
- Sandals, sneakers, and comfortable walking shoes
- PJ’s
- Workout clothes (depending on if you plan on utilizing the gym/going for an open air run)
- Bathing Suit
- Simple accessories
- Everyday earrings (studs)
- Scarf
- Sun hat
- Toiletries
- Tooth brush
- Tooth paste
- Face wash
- Makeup
- Shampoo/Conditioner can [and should] be purchased upon arrival to save space
- Razor
- Hair ties
- Comb/brush
- Deodorant
The Leave Behind (or drag along):
- Laptop
- Your entire shoe collection
- Full sized toiletries
- Accessories
Granted, the packing list will vary per person depending on trip length, style, and interests! For me, I figured a carry-on travel bag would be ideal since I’ll be visiting a new city every three days and over packing wasn’t an option. I’ll also be abroad sketching for class so a sketchbook was necessary – it might not be added to your packing list but it was high up on my own!
Check back every week for Travel Thursday’s while I’m abroad – can’t wait to share my experience with you!
One thought on “So what do you pack?”