Packing Lists & Tips – SmarterTravel https://www.smartertravel.com The Best Trips Start Here Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:35:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.3 217354961 Essential Items for a Budget Travel Packing List https://www.smartertravel.com/essential-items-for-a-budget-travel-packing-list/ https://www.smartertravel.com/essential-items-for-a-budget-travel-packing-list/#respond Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:32:32 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=451202 Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. With careful planning and packing, you can have an enjoyable and affordable trip. In this guide, we will outline the essential items you need to pack for budget travel. Clothing and Accessories When traveling on a budget, it’s important to pack the […]

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Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. With careful planning and packing, you can have an enjoyable and affordable trip. In this guide, we will outline the essential items you need to pack for budget travel.

Clothing and Accessories

When traveling on a budget, it’s important to pack the right clothing and accessories to ensure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Choose lightweight and versatile clothing that can be layered depending on the weather. Make sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, and rain jacket or poncho, in case of bad weather. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes and swimwear if you plan to visit the beach. Additionally, bring a travel towel and travel-sized toiletries if you’re staying in a hostel or somewhere they may not be supplied. Finally, a money belt or hidden pouch is essential for keeping your valuables safe.

Travel Gear

In addition to clothing and electronics, you should pack a few essential items to make your travels more comfortable. These items include a backpack or carry-on suitcase, packing cubes or compression bags, a travel pillow and blanket, a travel-sized first aid kit, a travel lock and cable, a travel umbrella, a portable water bottle, travel-sized laundry detergent, a travel-sized sewing kit, and travel-sized stain remover.

Technology and Entertainment

Having the right electronics can make a huge difference when traveling. Make sure to pack a travel adapter and chargers for all your devices. Additionally, a portable power bank can be useful for keeping your electronics charged when you’re on the go. Technology and entertainment items are also essential for budget travel. Packing a few items can help keep you entertained and connected on the go. Some items to consider include:

  • Smartphone or tablet
  • E-reader or books
  • Portable speaker or headphones
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Portable Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Camera or GoPro
  • Travel journal and pen
  • Deck of cards or travel games
  • Portable charger for electronics

Miscellaneous

Finally, a few miscellaneous items are also essential for budget travel. These items can help you stay organized, safe, and comfortable while on the road. Some items to consider include:

  • Travel insurance documents
  • Passport and photocopies
  • Visa and travel permits
  • Local currency and emergency cash
  • Travel guidebook or maps
  • Snacks and reusable water bottle
  • Travel-sized laundry bag
  • Travel-sized toiletry bag
  • Travel-sized sunscreen and insect repellent

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The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers https://www.smartertravel.com/ultimate-business-trip-packing-list/ https://www.smartertravel.com/ultimate-business-trip-packing-list/#respond Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:34:11 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=451191 Business travel can be both exciting and stressful. Having the right items with you can make your trip more comfortable and productive. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate packing list for business travelers, ensuring that you have everything you need for a successful trip. Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated […]

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Business travel can be both exciting and stressful. Having the right items with you can make your trip more comfortable and productive. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate packing list for business travelers, ensuring that you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated using AI technology.

Clothing

When it comes to professional attire, it’s good to consider the level of formality of your trip. Business suits are a professional staple, providing a polished and put-together look for any occasion. For a more business casual situation, dress shirts and blouses paired with slacks or a skirt are a good option. Pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a linen blazer or a black dress, allow you to create multiple outfits with minimal packing.

In terms of outerwear, consider the climate of your destination. Blazers and suit jackets are popular choices, providing a structured and put-together look. Sweaters can be worn over dress shirts or blouses for a relaxed yet professional appearance. For colder destinations, a tailored option like a peacoat or a well-fitting lightweight puffer jacket will do the trick.

For footwear, consider dress shoes such as oxfords, loafers, pumps, flats, or dressy boots. It is important to choose shoes that are appropriate for the workplace while still being comfortable enough for any sightseeing you have planned.

In addition to business attire, pack a few casual items for after-hours activities and for the flight. These can include comfortable pants, jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters.

The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include:

  • Business suits
  • Professional dress shirts and blouses
  • Slacks and dress pants
  • Skirts and dresses
  • Jackets and sweaters
  • Shoes (at least two pairs)
  • Socks and underwear
  • A tie and belt (if applicable)
  • A scarf (if applicable)
  • A hat (if applicable)

Toiletries

It is essential to pack toiletries for a business trip, especially if you will be away for more than a few days. Consider packing items such as:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap and body wash
  • Deodorant
  • Razors and shaving cream
  • Hairbrush and comb
  • Facial cleanser and moisturizer
  • Makeup and cosmetics
  • Menstrual products
  • Skincare products (including facial cleanser and sunscreen)
  • Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
  • Prescription medications

When it comes to personal hygiene and self-care, it is essential to have a few items on hand. The most basic necessities include a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, deodorant, and any skincare products part of your typical routine. For those who prefer a clean-shaven look, don’t forget your razors and shaving cream.

For hair care, bring along a hairbrush or comb, hair styling tools, and any hair products you use on a daily basis.

Lastly, individuals who require prescription medications should always have them readily available. Pack any necessary medication in your carry-on or personal item to ensure that they reach your destination safely.

Electronics

Staying connected on-the-go is never more important than when traveling for business. Make sure to bring the following items:

  • Laptop
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Tablet
  • Any necessary external hard drives or flash drives
  • Power cords and adaptors
  • Headphones
  • Portable Wi-Fi device
  • Portable charger

A laptop is a must-have for any business traveler as it allows you to work on important tasks and stay connected with your colleagues and clients. Additionally, a cell phone is essential for communication and a tablet can be useful for reading documents or presentations on the go.

Headphones can be useful for listening to music on the plane or taking calls in noisy environments. A portable Wi-Fi device can provide you with reliable internet access while on the move. Lastly, a portable charger can be a lifesaver when you are running low on battery power without an outlet in sight.

Documents

Be sure to bring important travel documents on your business trip, such as your passport, driver’s license, copies of your itinerary, and tickets. In addition to these typical travel necessities, make sure to print out any contracts, reports, or presentations you may need for your trip. Keep all of these documents in a folder or bag that you can easily access.

Miscellaneous Business Essentials

When traveling for work, make sure to pack all the business travel essentials needed to complete your job for the duration of the trip. This can include additional accessories like a briefcase or laptop bag, business cards, notebooks, and pens. If you’re giving a presentation, make sure to bring all the necessary equipment and materials, such as presentation notes, cables, and extra batteries.

Lastly, make sure to bring any industry or job-specific items that your work may require, such as name tags, ID cards, building keys, specialized gear or equipment, or uniforms.

Miscellaneous Travel Items

There are a few items you’ll want to have in your suitcase no matter the type of trip. These include:

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Ultimate Packing List for a Family Road Trip https://www.smartertravel.com/ultimate-packing-list-for-family-road-trip/ https://www.smartertravel.com/ultimate-packing-list-for-family-road-trip/#respond Thu, 27 Jul 2023 19:55:29 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=449868 It’s that time of the year, schools will be out soon, and families will pack into their minivans and SUVs, and head out for their summer vacation. Whether you are heading to the beach, mountains, a national park, or to a lake, we have everything you need to make sure you have the best vacation […]

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It’s that time of the year, schools will be out soon, and families will pack into their minivans and SUVs, and head out for their summer vacation. Whether you are heading to the beach, mountains, a national park, or to a lake, we have everything you need to make sure you have the best vacation ever. 

The Ultimate Family Road Trip Packing List

Basic Gear

Food & Drink

Entertainment & Tech Gear

Baby Gear

Clothes

Toiletries

Download Our Editable Family Road Trip Packing List

Make sure you have everything you need next time you hit the road.

Basic Gear 

From babies to adults, the gear you need varies. Here is what you need no matter where you are in life. 

For All Families

Father high-fiving daughter in car on family road trip
Rawpixel.com

Rain Gear

As much as you hope it doesn’t rain on your vacation, you do need to be prepared for those times that it does. Make sure you have umbrellas and raincoats or ponchos packed for those occasions. Waterproof shoes, rain boots, and galoshes should also be considered, especially if the extended forecast is calling for more than one rainy day. 

Cooler

While you can always stop at a grocery store, it can be a pain to find the time or figure out where the nearest one is to where you are staying. To avoid having to go shopping, pack a cooler so your perishable items will stay cold. Be sure to have plenty of ice packs on hand. 

Bike Rack/Bikes

If you are an active family, or you are going somewhere with a lot of bike trails, you’ll want to bring your bikes, so a bike rack will be key. We love the Camber Bike Rack from Thule, it can hold up to four bikes, and easily bends down for easy access to your trunk/hatch back. 

Roof Cargo Carrier

Not all cargo space is created equal, and unless you have a van or a large SUV, chances are you will need some extra space when you pack for vacation. A roof cargo carrier will give you that extra space you need. Make sure your car has the correct roof rack rails to hitch a carrier properly and securely. We love the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier, there is plenty of space for extra gear, and it is durable through the elements. 

Folding Blanket 

This might be the one travel item you never knew you needed until you have one. Folding picnic blankets can easily be stored in the back of your car to be used no matter what occasion arises- a trip to the beach, a stop at the park- you name it, you’ll be prepared. Ones like this fold up into themselves and have an integrated handle for easy carrying. 

Food and Drink

Water Bottles 

Rather than rely on bottled water (and to help the environment), you should invest in water bottles for the whole family. Ones with an integrated straw or a flip top of some sort are best for car rides, so you don’t have to worry about water spilling out. This one from Yeti will keep your water cold and spill-free! 

Snacks

One of the most important parts of a road trip is the snacks. While many families may have their traditional snacks for the road (ours was always Cheez-Its), you don’t want to forget some basic staples. Nuts, fruit, and protein bars are great to have on the road to curb hunger between stops. 

Baggies 

Baggies are imperative to a road trip- it is much cheaper to buy a bigger bag of something and divvy it up for everyone in the car using sandwich bags. Reusable ones like these from Smelly Proof are perfect because you can rinse them out and use them again, no need to pack an entire box of baggies!

Entertainment/Tech Gear

Two children in the backseat of a car as seen through the car window, one listening to music on headphones and the other on a tablet device
Halfpoint | Adobe Stock

Tablets

I often wonder how my parents did road trips with five kids and no tablets when I was a kid. When my son was two and a half, we made the mistake of not allowing the tablet. In a desperate measure, I gave it to him with a few hours left of our twelve-hour trip. It was a miracle. We have not made that mistake again, and always bring it on any road trips we take. We love the Amazon Kindle for Kids. If it breaks, they will replace it for 2 years, plus it has time limits you can set, as well as total control of the content. 

Streaming Devices

While most hotels and rentals have smart tv’s you can use to log into your streaming accounts, they may not have every app you are looking for, and you may not want to log into a shared device. Avoid this by bringing along your Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, or whatever your streaming device of choice is. 

Car Surprises

Because tablets didn’t exist when I was a kid, my mom had a different solution: a bag full of “surprises” she would dole out at designated spots along the way (breakfast, lunch, etc..) It wasn’t anything major- things like woolly willy, mad libs, card games, and books. It gave us something to do between each stop and gave a little excitement to being in the car for an entire day. 

Chargers 

Don’t forget all of the chargers you will need while away, including charges for: phones, watches, tablets, and laptops. It’s always smart to bring a portable charger as well for when you are out for the day.

For Families with Babies

Parents playing with baby while sitting in open car trunk on a family road trip
Serhii | Adobe Stock

Strollers

Wagon Stroller 

A wagon stroller is going to be one of the best purchases you make for your trip (and beyond). Not only will your sitting babies be able to sit in it, but your toddlers will be able to as well. We love the Adventure Bundle From Gladly Family. It has an insanely smooth ride, heavy-duty wheels, a cooler bag, cup holders, double canopies and more.  

Umbrella Stroller

Umbrella strollers are super convenient to keep in your car once you’ve arrived at your destination. They are lightweight, and, as the name suggests, fold up easily like an umbrella. Perfect for toddlers and sitting babies. We love the Summer 3D umbrella stroller for a more robust feel, and for a lighter weight, more basic one, we love this one by Cosco

Rain Cover for Stroller

You don’t want the threat of rain to ruin your plans for the day, so always be prepared with a rain cover. It will easily store underneath your stroller, or in one of its pockets. Quickly open it up and drape it over your stroller to keep your baby dry. 

Mosquito Net for Stroller

You should avoid using bug spray on babies, so a net like this will protect them from mosquitoes and other pesky bugs. 

Sleep

Pack ‘N Play

Pack n’ plays are synonymous with traveling with a baby. They are convenient and can be put up in no time once you put it up once or twice. You can always go with the classic Pack ‘N Play or the Bugaboo Stardust Playard

Monitor

If you have a Wi-Fi baby monitor at home, you may want to invest in a closed-circuit one for vacation. The Hello Baby monitor has a long range, so you can easily sit on your deck and enjoy the evening after the baby is in bed. 

Noise Machine

A noise machine has almost become standard in every baby’s nursery, and when you are on the road it is even more important to have one to help your baby sleep. Outside noises, noisy neighbors, or simply unfamiliar noises can cause sleep issues when on the road. A noise machine will help filter out those noises. Try the Color Noise Sound Machine, which is compact, and also has a built-in night light with ten colors to choose from, as well as twenty-five sounds to choose from. 

Waterproof Mattress Pad

One thing you don’t want to have to do while on the road is let the Airbnb owner or hotel management know that your child wet the bed. Bring along as many waterproof mattress pads as you have kids in diapers/toddlers, and don’t take any chances. The SureGuard mattress protector will keep the mattress dry no matter what may happen. 

Bottles/Bottle Warmer

You don’t want to forget your baby’s bottles. Sure, these days you can order almost anything online or find a store along the way, but stay on top of things and make sure you pack your bottles. A portable bottle warmer is key when you are on the road as well. This portable bottle warmer will become your best friend when you are out and about. Charge it before you leave, and it will heat the bottle up in just three minutes. Don’t forget your formula and portable dispenser. These microwavable bottle sterilizers will be your best friend when on the road. No need to boil or lug around a big sterilizer system. Just pop them in the bag with a little water, put them in the microwave, and you are good to go! 

Wearable Breast Pump and Accessories

If you are breastfeeding, the best thing you can do for yourself while traveling is invest in a wearable breast pump. They make pumping in the car more manageable than a regular breast pump, not to mention when you are out and about while vacationing. You can pop them on at the beach, amusement park, museum- wherever the day takes you- without having to stop everything to pump or breastfeed. We love these from Momcozy. They are as efficient as a regular pump, and don’t leak.

If you don’t want to get wearable pumps, get a power inverter for easy plugging in while on the road so you don’t have to worry about keeping your pump charged or having batteries on hand. And, of course, don’t forget your breast pump! Don’t forget bags to store your breast milk, and a cooler to keep it cool while on the road. We love the on-the-go thermos/cooler system from Ceres Chill. It easily keeps your breastmilk cold while not at home in a compact, simple way- without needing a cooler. Take this with you during the day, and transfer the milk into bags when you get back to your hotel or rental. 

Portable high chair/booster seat

Having a spot to contain your baby or toddler is key while out and about. While boosters that attach to seats like these are popular, an even better option is a camp chair high chair like this one from Ciao Baby. The youngest members of your family will be able to sit and enjoy meals at the same level as you, and they fold up like regular camp chairs, so won’t take up too much space. 

Play Time

If your baby loves their swing or bouncy chair, getting a collapsable rocker like this one for your family vacation is probably for the best. You can lay it flat and pack things on top of it.  A fold-up play mat is also key for families with infants, as you don’t want to lose out on all of that tummy time while you are away! You also don’t want to forget any of your baby’s favorite rattles, books, teething toys, or stuffies

Baby Basics

Close up of toddler walking next to father on wide sidewalk
Anastasia Gapeeva | Adobe Stock

Babies tend to need a lot of gear while on the road. And while some things may seem obvious, there are everyday basics you probably already have in your diaper bag, but you really don’t want to forget: 

Bibs
Wipes
Burpy Cloths
Diapers 
Overnight Diapers
Butt Cream
Tylenol
Changing Pad 
Blankets
Swim Diaper
Clothes

Clothes

While it may seem obvious that you need to pack clothes, sometimes you may be on vacation and kicking yourself that you forgot that one thing that you desperately need. While you never want to overpack (trust me, you don’t need that pair of jeans you have never worn), you do want to make sure you are prepared. While you likely won’t forget the essentials like underwear, pants, and shirts, the less obvious things like sweatshirts, cover-ups, bathing suits, and hats may get lost in the shuffle.

For the actual trip in the car, these leggings from lululemon paired with a loose fitting top like this one, shorts and a t-shirt for men, for kids we love the gym short paired with the Classic Tee from Primary. If you have a baby, opt for a onesie that has a zipper for those panicked times you have to pull over on the side of the road for a quick diaper change- you won’t want to have to deal with snaps! 

Toiletries 

While most toiletries you will remember as you stand in your bathroom packing your toiletry bag, there are others that you may keep somewhere else and you don’t want to forget, like sunscreen, insect repellent and medications. The good news about a road trip is that you aren’t as restricted when it comes to luggage, so you can bring full-sized items, and not worry about having to get travel sized ones

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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How to Pack for a Week-Long Trip https://www.smartertravel.com/how-to-pack-for-a-week-long-trip/ https://www.smartertravel.com/how-to-pack-for-a-week-long-trip/#respond Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:16:17 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=450647 Everyone loves to get away on a week-long vacation, but packing is a different story, raising questions like, Should you go carry-on only or check a bag? How will you be able to pack all of your toiletries and still leave space for multiple shoe options?  Fortunately, we’ve put together an expert guide to packing […]

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Everyone loves to get away on a week-long vacation, but packing is a different story, raising questions like, Should you go carry-on only or check a bag? How will you be able to pack all of your toiletries and still leave space for multiple shoe options? 

Fortunately, we’ve put together an expert guide to packing for a seven-day trip, featuring tips for everything from which suitcase to use to clothing advice.

Which Suitcase Should You Use for a Week-Long Trip?

The Hanke front-opening spinner suitcase, Nordace siena smart backpack, and Bobby balos tote lined up side-by-side
Amazon & Nordstrom

The key to packing success starts with using the right gear, including the perfect suitcase and personal item. 

No matter if you want to go carry-on only or check a bag, the Hanke Front-Opening Spinner Suitcase is a good choice. Available in three sizes, this uniquely designed hard-shell case is a useful option for those who prefer to not have to wrestle with two heavy halves of the standard suitcase. It’s well-equipped with spinner wheels, an ergonomic retracting trolley handle, and a TSA-approved lock for your peace of mind. The case also features a reinforced frame and durable polycarbonate shell, so it’s ready for even the most rugged journey.

For a personal item, the Nordace Siena Smart Backpack is the perfect size. The Siena Smart backpack easily fits under your seat and is packed full of innovative features such as a hidden anti-theft pocket, a USB port for keeping your electronics charged on the go, a trolley sleeve for easy carrying on a suitcase, and a lined pocket for keeping your sunglasses scratch-free.

Tend to overpack? Bring an extra bag (without sacrificing space) with the Bybba Balos Tote. This bag is an excellent balance of sustainability, style, and space-saving usefulness. The tote folds away into its own little pocket and includes a carabiner so that you can sling it from a backpack or water bottle strap. Unfolded, the Balos is a good-looking bag with room enough for a full-on farmer’s market haul and a handy drawstring to keep your treasures safely stored away on the trip home. On top of this veritable mountain of great features, it’s a sustainability win, being made of a proprietary material derived from ocean waste.

What Electronics Should You Bring on a Seven Day Trip?

We all bring too many chargers and cables with us on trips, and nothing keeps the electronic detritus better corralled than the beautifully constructed Peak Design Origami Tech Pouch. The clever origami-style design provides plenty of individual space for tech bits and bobs, yet still allows the case to close neatly and fully. A weatherproof shell keeps all your goods safe and dry, and a pass-through slot for cables from the main body to an external pocket allows you to charge small electronics on the go.

Keep your flight peaceful with the JBL’s Noise Cancelling Headphones. They boast between 40 and 50 hours of listening life, comfortable ear cushions, and handy Bluetooth capabilities, so you can stay entertained for even the longest journey.

All electronics need charging eventually, and you may not be near a wall outlet when you need one. The Anker 10000mAh Portable Charger is a high-performing on-the-go battery option that can fully power up your devices. 

Keep track of all your stuff by packing a luggage tracker in your bag. The Apple AirTag is a hugely popular option, but if you don’t have an iPhone, Tile Pro Tracker works with any smartphone.

How to Pack Toiletries for a Seven Day Trip

Close up of woman packing toiletry in a small bag for a week long trip
auremar | Adobe Stock

The Beis Travel Cosmetic Case is a great toiletry kit for both men and women, featuring a unisex design, deep-pocketed body, accessory loops, and a handle that stores away flat when not being held. 

To fill it, ditch the old jars and bottles in favor of Kitsch Refillable Toiletry Squeeze Pouches. Not only are they cute and TSA-compliant, but by virtue of their squeezability, you can fit more of them into your toiletry bag, and that means you can bring more of your favorite cosmetics and hygiene products along—always a good thing.

Don’t forget to pack the essential toiletries to keep you clean and safe. Sunscreen should never be left behind, and the Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick is a non-liquid option that’s SPF 50 to keep your skin safe. For cleanliness on the go, Purell 2 Oz. Hand Sanitizer With Aloe is a must as you pass through crowds of your fellow travelers, touch airport railings, and encounter woefully soap-less public restrooms. 

For your clothes, packing cubes are great for helping you keep organized, and they’re on another level when you add compression features. Baggalini Compression Cubes are sturdy and space saving, plus they offer a mesh top to let you see what’s in each cube without having to open it up and rummage through your belongings. Then, store your shoes in BeeGreen’s Travel Shoe Bags. These liquid-resistant nylon shoe bags come in a pack of six with a variety of pattern options available, and their price can’t be beat.

Must-Pack Accessories for a Week-Long Trip

If you love hydration and caffeine but don’t want to lug around separate travel mugs and water bottles, the Simple Modern Classic Insulated Tumbler is the receptacle for you. Not only does it come in multiple sizes and colors, each tumbler comes with two lids: a flip lid for coffee and tea, and a straw lid for cold drinks. The tumbler’s double-walled insulation keeps your drinks hot or cold for hours, and both lids are highly leak-resistant.

It may not actually look very pillowy, but the Trtl Neck Support Travel Pillow is possibly the best neck support option on the market today for travelers. The inner brace keeps your neck well supported no matter how you wear it during your trip, leaving you able to sleep in transit and arrive refreshed, with no neck pain. 

To get long locks out of the way without messing up your look, grab a Claw Clip or two. These clips are difficult to break and have passed vigorous head-shake tests, making them ideal for travelers. They’ll keep your updo comfortably in place and gorgeous for hours.

The Best Clothing to Pack for a Week-Long Trip

Close up of person packing a small suitcase on top of bed
New Africa | Adobe Stock

Wherever you’re traveling, the main key to a good seven-day travel wardrobe is packing neutral layers. (A close second would be anti-wrinkle items that still look good after being folded into a suitcase.) 

For travelers that prefer simple dresses, the Toad & Co Piru Henley Midi Tank Dress makes for a stylish, comfortable option. Pair one with a cardigan with hidden pockets in case it gets chilly (plus, extra storage!)

The world of casual separates has never been broader thanks to Universal Standard. Their Light As Air V Rex tee and the Double V Tank are great basic tops that work well with either the Iris Linen Easy Pull-On Pants or the Katie Highrise Crossover Denim Shorts. All items come in a good variety of colors, and the t-shirt even offers two different neckline options. 

Should any of your evening plans include a nice dinner out, Nordstrom’s Sleeveless Cotton Blend Dress is a timeless, simple option that can be dressed up or down.

For colder destinations, a good pair of tights or leggings can winterize your dress options. 

For the traveling man, Bluffworks’ Envoy Travel Pants are a superb choice that work for long flights or busy days on the road. Tailored to be slim but not tight, these wrinkle-resistant pants look pulled together, and can be dressed up or down. 

Pack a few Uniqlo Dry Crew Neck T-Shirts in different colors for a simple and easy wardrobe staple—it can be layered under the Uniqlo Waffle Knit Long-Sleeved T-Shirt if you want options depending on the weather.

Another great basic is the Everlane Organic Oxford Shirt, which can be layered open over your t-shirts for a bit of an elevated casual look or worn alone and buttoned up if your occasion is a little dressier.

The Best Jackets and Baselayers for a Week-Long Trip

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes, as the saying goes. If the forecast is looking cold or rainy, a good jacket can save your trip.

When you’re looking for base layers to keep you warm without adding bulk, SmartWool offers options for all genders and age ranges. They’re also a fantastic source for comfortable cushioned socks that make long walking days a breeze—the Light Cushion Ankle Socks, Light Cushion Crew Socks, and Full Cushion Crew Socks are just a few of your many options.

A good packable jacket is also a must for cold-weather journeys, and Amazon Essentials has a fantastic lightweight puffer jacket that can be useful in different kinds of weather. Offered in a women’s cut as well as men’s, it comes in a wide range of colors and packs neatly away into its own included drawstring bag.

Forecast calls for wet and rainy? No fear, Patagonia’s Torrentshell Rain Jacket (available in women’s and men’s cuts) keeps you dry and can be packed into almost nothing via its own handwarmer pocket. And don’t forget to include a Totes Micro-Mini Umbrella for heavy showers.

Don’t leave behind your sun protection either! The Columbia Trek Bucket Hat offers a good-looking, eminently packable hat option for bright days.

The Best Shoes to Pack for a Week-Long Trip

Aerial view of woman decided what pair of shoes to pack in her suitcase on the floor next to her
Alliance | Adobe Stock

For a seven-day trip, you don’t want to fill up half of your bag with nothing but shoes. Think in terms of versatility and comfort and try to limit yourself to just two pairs—one casual, and one that can maybe do a little more heavy lifting in the style department for evening occasions.

Starting with sneakers, look no further than the HOKA Clifton 9 (click here for the men’s style). Lightweight yet cushioned and comfortable, this is a great everyday sneaker—your feet will thank you after a day spent walking through airports or destinations in them! With a sturdy rubber rocker sole, cushioning inside, and a knit upper, you’ll find your feet are clean, dry and pain-free after long walks.

Women who need a dressier option can start with the Alegria Vanya slide, available in several colors. Alegria’s signature rocker sole and memory foam insole allow for hours of walking ease, while the criss-cross strap and large decorative buckle make for a sleek, classy look. But if you prefer a stylish flat, Pippa by Josef Seibel is your best choice. Lightweight and easy to pack, the Pippa has a non-slip rubber sole and cushioned lining for comfortable evening strolls, yet still completes your outfit with its elegant appearance.

Men who want an evening shoe option that can still look good with casual daytime outfits should check out the Clarks Morris Peak ankle boot for the versatile shoe of your dreams. They’re waterproof, moisture-wicking, and feature an anti-slip sole, but they also just look great. They’ll be ideal for light packers.

The Best Snacks to Pack for a Week-Long Trip

Who hasn’t been stranded at an airport or arrived at their destination long after everything has closed? Or maybe you’ve got special dietary needs and need something for the times you can’t be accommodated. It’s never a bad idea to keep a few snacks on hand.

Beef jerky is always a popular trip snack, and Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Bars are a super convenient option. Vegans don’t have to be left out, either—Louisville Vegan Jerky has a delicious variety pack of flavor options. 

For the traveler with a sweet tooth, KIND’s Healthy Grains Bars are a great choice, and an extra hit of protein doesn’t get more yummy than Justin’s Vanilla Almond Butter, available in handy individual squeeze packs.

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