Moving abroad or travelling for months at a time is a big adventure — and what you pack can make the difference between comfort and chaos. Whether you’re relocating for work, studying in another country, or travelling long term for fun, this guide is here to help you pack smart, light, and ready for anything.
No fluff, just a practical, item-by-item list of what actually matters when you’re away from home for a while.
Start With the Right Mindset
Long term travel is not a short holiday. You’re not just “going away” — you’re building a temporary version of your life somewhere else. That means you’ll need to think about daily life, not just sightseeing.
Here’s how to think differently:
- Pack for a typical week, not every possible situation
- Buy small, restock as you go — don’t overpack shampoo
- Function over fashion — can you mix and match this item?
- Weight and space matter — you’ll be carrying this more than you think
1. Luggage & Packing Tools
The bag you choose matters. It’s your portable wardrobe, drawer, and storage closet.
Main luggage
- Soft-sided suitcase with compression zips
– Good for city-to-city moves - Travel backpack (40–60L)
– Best for mobility, hostels, or public transport-heavy trips - Rolling duffel bag
– Hybrid option: easy to pull, easier to stuff full
Daypack or carry-on
- 15–25L backpack with laptop sleeve
– Use daily for work, classes, or exploring
Organisers
- Packing cubes – separate clothes by type
- Compression bags – save space on bulkier clothes
- Laundry bag – never mix clean and dirty again
2. Clothes & Footwear
The right clothes make life easier. Think layers, quick-drying fabrics, and items that mix well together.
Essentials (base layers)
- 5–7 T-shirts (quick dry or cotton)
- 2–3 long sleeve shirts or thermal tops
- 1–2 collared or nicer shirts for dinners or events
- 1 hoodie or sweatshirt
- 1 light jacket (water-resistant if possible)
Bottoms
- 2 pairs of trousers or jeans
- 1–2 pairs of lightweight trousers or joggers
- 1 pair of shorts (or 2, if travelling in warm weather)
Outerwear
- 1 packable rain jacket
- 1 warm fleece or puffer jacket (seasonal)
- Gloves, scarf, beanie (if going somewhere cold)
Optional (for women)
- 1–2 casual dresses or skirts
- Lightweight scarf for layering or modesty
Footwear
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes (insert link)
- 1 pair of sandals or flip flops (insert link)
- 1 pair of nicer shoes or boots (optional, depending on plans)
Undergarments
- 7–10 pairs of underwear
- 4–6 pairs of socks (mix short and long)
- 1–2 bras or sports bras
- 1 swimsuit
3. Toiletries & Hygiene
Pack only what you need to start — you can top up later. Keep liquids small and carry-on safe.
Must-haves
- Toothbrush and small toothpaste
- Shampoo and body wash (travel size or bar versions)
- Deodorant
- Razor or shaver
- Nail clippers
- Comb or brush
- Menstrual products (start with a month’s supply)
Extras
- Microfibre towel (insert link) – dries fast, packs small
- Toiletry bag with hook (insert link)
- Solid shampoo bar (insert link) – leak-proof and travel-friendly
- Reusable water bottle (insert link)
Tech & Electronics
Stay connected and powered up — wherever you are.
Essentials
- Smartphone + charger
- Laptop or tablet + charger
- Travel adapter (universal plug) (insert link)
- Power bank (insert link) – especially for long travel days
- Headphones or earbuds
- Lightweight extension cord or splitter (insert link)
Optional
- Kindle or e-reader
- USB drive or external hard drive for backups
- SIM card tool
- eSIM app (Airalo or similar)
5. Health & Safety
Don’t skip this section. You may not use these every day — but when you need them, you’ll be glad you packed them.
Basics
- Prescription medications (1–3 month supply if possible)
- Small first aid kit (insert link)
- Rehydration tablets
- Motion sickness tablets
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunscreen (solid or 100ml max for carry-on)
- Covid test (rapid) and mask (if required)
Safety
- Travel insurance documents (digital and printed)
- RFID-blocking wallet or pouch
- Small flashlight or headlamp
- TSA lock for your bag
6. Documents & Admin
You don’t need many papers — but the ones you do need are critical.
Must-carry documents
- Passport (check expiry!)
- Visa or residency permit (if required)
- Printed accommodation confirmation
- Flight and travel tickets
- Copies of prescriptions (medications and glasses)
- Credit and debit cards (carry two)
- Emergency contacts
- Passport photos (for ID applications)
Tip: Keep printed and digital copies. Save everything in a secure online folder you can access anywhere.
7. Extra Items That Make Life Easier
These aren’t essential, but they improve daily comfort and reduce stress.
Comforts from home
- Small pack of your favourite tea or coffee
- Photos of friends or family
- Journal or notebook
- Small personal gift or cultural token
For working or studying
- Small foldable laptop stand
- Noise-cancelling earbuds
- Pen, sticky notes, and a notebook
For daily life
- Reusable shopping bag
- Foldable clothes hanger set
- Small sewing kit
Packing Tips for Long Term Travel
- Lay it all out, then cut it in half
You’ll probably bring too much the first time. Be ruthless. - Don’t pack what you can easily buy
Toothpaste, snacks, even extra clothes are all easy to find. - Roll, don’t fold
Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles. - Put heavy items near the wheels or bottom of the pack
It’ll feel lighter when you carry or pull it. - Use ziplock bags for small things
Keep cables, adapters, and toiletries organised.
Final Thoughts: Pack Light, Travel Far
Packing for long term travel is not about bringing everything. It’s about bringing the right things. A bit of planning now saves you money, stress, and back pain later.
Stick to versatile items, prioritise comfort, and remember — if you forget something, you can probably buy it!