18 Must-Haves for Packing Light

Are you an avid traveler who’s always on the lookout for ways to streamline your packing process? Look no further! I’ve curated a comprehensive list of my 18 must-have items that will help you pack light without compromising on convenience and comfort. Whether you’re embarking on a spontaneous weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, these essentials are designed to make your travels hassle-free and enjoyable.

This was everything our family of four took to Europe for 3 weeks. Personal items only, no carry-ons or checked baggage.

1. Travel Backpack – A reliable travel backpack that fits within airline “personal item” regulations is the foundation of efficient packing. I recommend this Travel Backpack for its durability, ergonomic design, and ample storage space. It has a waterproof wet bag section, a separate shoe compartment, and the front face opens up completely, allowing you to access everything you need without digging to the bottom. I took this bag and nothing more on a 3-week adventure to Iceland, Scotland, and Ireland.
2. Universal Adapter – Keep your devices charged and ready to go with a Universal Adapter that’s compatible with various outlets around the world. It has every possible port you could need and I actually use mine at home to add more USB ports to my outlet in my bedroom.
3. Tripod/Selfie Stick – How do you take good family photos when we’re travelling without constantly asking strangers to take pictures for us? Capture picture-perfect moments with ease using a versatile Tripod/Selfie Stick combo, ensuring your memories are preserved just the way you want. We still ask others to take a picture here or there but when nobody else is around or if we want to have a few takes at it (necessary with two small kids!), setting up the tripod is the best option. It’s really quick to set up, has a remote clicker, and folds up small enough to justify taking along when you’re packing super light.
4. Waterproof Jacket – After feeling like a few days of a past trip were ruined by rain, I decided to pack better in the future. It’s only uncomfortable to explore in the rain when you’re getting wet. A lightweight and packable waterproof jacket is great when it comes to staying dry on the go, BUT I actually take this longer, thicker, more reliably waterproof jacket and wear it on the plane (or tie it around my waist) instead of packing a thinner one. On our trip to Iceland where we knew we’d be walking behind waterfalls, we all packed rain pants too and didn’t regret it! Research the weather before you travel and pack accordingly.
5. Thermal Fleece Sweater – Stay warm without the bulk by packing a thermal fleece sweater that provides insulation in chilly conditions.
6. Best Quality Leggings – Versatile and comfortable, a pair of high-quality leggings can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for various occasions during your travels. They’re also great for layering under other clothing in colder weather.
7. Ziploc Bags – These handy bags are ideal for organizing small items, toiletries, and even keeping wet clothes or swimsuits separate from the rest of your belongings.
8. Quick-Dry Pants – Opt for quick-drying pants that are not only functional but also easy to wash and maintain while you’re on the move. These studio pants are a Lululemon fake and I have two pairs and would buy them in every colour!
9. Belt (small buckle, good quality) – This is my husband’s addition to the list. A sleek belt with a small buckle not only keeps your pants in place but also adds a touch of style to your outfits.
10. Waterproof Shoes – Invest in waterproof shoes to tackle different terrains and weather conditions, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Wear them as you travel through airports and hang them off your bag with a carabiner when you need to. I’m not big on huge, heavy hiking shoes but I’ve never travelled anywhere yet that I’ve felt I needed them. These ones from Adidas look like running shoes. I have had these waterproof Keen shoes for over 3 years and wear them on the way to and from work in the winter. They keep my feet completely dry and warm but could be too warm for travelling in warmer climates. Columbia has some good options too but I haven’t tried them before.
11. Lightweight Walking Shoes – Explore new destinations by foot with a pair of lightweight and supportive walking shoes that won’t weigh you down.
12. Condiment Packets – We often shop at local grocery stores and cook our own meals while travelling and we’ve done it enough times that we’ve started to bring a few packets of ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. The guilt of buying a whole bottle of mustard for 8 sandwiches and then throwing out the extra was too much!
13. Water Bottle – Stay hydrated wherever you go by carrying a reusable water bottle that can be refilled throughout your journey. Remember to take it to the airport empty and use a water filling station after going through security. Choose one that is lightweight – any extra weight that can be avoided is less weight for you to be carrying on your trip.
14. Carabiner – This versatile tool comes in handy for attaching items to your backpack, securing gear, or even hanging up wet clothes. These colourful ones have a screw closure so they won’t accidentally open.
15. Laundry Solution – Pack Tide Pods in a sealable container or laundry sheets for a convenient way to keep your clothes fresh during extended travels.
16. Packing Cubes – Stay organized with these packing cubes, perfect for compartmentalizing your essentials and keeping your bag tidy.
17. Noise-Canceling Headphones or Ear Buds – Block out the noise of busy airports or loud fellow travelers and enjoy your own world of entertainment. I’m not great at sleeping on planes but these noise canceling headphones have helped! (ADHD hack – put a podcast on these while doing undesirable activities like cleaning and get into a hyper-productive zone! My son uses them with the podcast “Greeking Out” every time he has to put away his laundry.)
18. Travel Sim Card – Stay connected without racking up exorbitant roaming charges by using a travel SIM card with data and call options. In all honesty, this is the one item on this list I haven’t used yet but am currently planning a trip in which we’ll need one.

Remember, less is more when it comes to packing light. Stick to essentials and prioritize versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. Before you set off on your adventure, don’t forget to download Google Maps for your destination and stock up on entertainment by downloading Netflix shows and audiobooks. Also, keep your travel documents organized by saving them to one offline-accessible folder, ensuring a stress-free journey from start to finish.

With these 18 must-haves for packing light, you’re well-equipped to embark on your next travel escapade with confidence, convenience, and comfort. Happy travels!