Ultimate Packing Guide

Essential Packing Principles

Travel Light, Live Large

• Embrace minimalism: Less stuff equals fewer worries.
• If you can’t carry it, don’t bring it. A roller bag and a daypack are all you need.
• The lighter your burden, the more pleasant your journey.

Smart Packing Tips

• Avoid over-packing. Pack half the stuff, bring twice the money.
• Resist packing “just in case” items—they’re called stores!
• Stick to a versatile, twin-color scheme for your clothes.
• Utilize large Ziploc bags for organizing.
• Pack old socks and underwear you can throw away.

Pre-Departure Checklist 

• Valid passport with at least five empty pages and six months’ validity.
• Four passport photos for visas.
• 23-day supply of necessary medications in original containers.
• Emergency contacts and travel insurance.
• Notify banks about your travel plans.
• Updated immunizations and necessary prescriptions.

Packing List Essentials

Clothing for Women

• 1 lightweight waterproof jacket
• 1 hat (floppy or cap)
• 1 warm sweater or hoody
• 1 pair of walking shoes/sneakers and flip-flops
• 5 pairs of socks (dress and athletic)
• 5 sets of underwear/bras
• 1 sleep outfit
• 1-2 sarongs or casual skirts
• 2 lightweight casual pants
• 1 swimsuit
• 1-2 pairs of shorts
• 3 T-shirts or polos
• 5 long and short-sleeve blouses
• 1 belt (optional money belt)
• 1 headscarf or bandanna
• 1 Pashmina for modesty and comfort 

Clothing for Men 

• 1 lightweight waterproof jacket
• 1 hat (floppy or cap)
• 1 warm sweater or hoody
• 1 pair of walking shoes/sneakers and flip-flops
• 5 pairs of socks (dress and athletic)
• 5 sets of underwear
• 1 sleep outfit
• 2 lightweight casual pants
• 1 swimsuit (double as casual shorts)
• 1-2 pairs of shorts
• 3 T-shirts or polos
• 5 long and short-sleeve shirts
• 1 belt (optional money belt)
• 1 scarf or bandanna

Toiletries and Health Essentials

• Prescriptions in original bottles
• EpiPen, decongestants, antihistamines for allergies
• Eyewear (glasses or contacts, sunglasses)
• 23-day supply of vitamins in pill baggies
• Waterproof SPF 30 sunscreen
• 30-50% DEET-based insect repellent
• Pain relievers (aspirin, Aleve, Tylenol, ibuprofen)
• 10-day supply of antibiotics
• Tummy kit: antacids, Imodium, Pepto-Bismol
• Liquid Band-Aid and bandages
• Antibiotic cream (Neosporin, Bacitracin)
• Non-drowsy cold medicine
• Sleeping aids (Melatonin, herbal teas)
• 5-hour energy drinks or espresso beans
• Lip balm, razors, nail clippers, tweezers
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Feminine products
• Shampoo and conditioner (hotels usually provide)
• Contraceptives
• Antiperspirant, moisturizer, nasal spray
• Motion sickness relief, hand sanitizer 

Useful Gadgets and Accessories

• Reusable synthetic tote bag
• Travel plug adaptors, USB charger cords, solar charger
• Mini-LED flashlight or headlamp
• Waterproof phone/gadget dry bag
• Extra digital camera chips (16 GB)
• Lightweight Bluetooth speaker
• Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds
• Swiss Army knife (checked luggage only)
• Notepad with pens, cheap watch, alarm clock
• Extra sealable Ziploc bags
• Address list for postcards, small gifts for children
• Fun team business cards
• Sewing repair kit
• Crispy $1 bills for tips and fees
• Snacks/energy bars for each day
• Quick-dry travel towel, laundry bag
• Power bank with adaptors
• Lightweight mini-tripod

Flying Comfort Kit 

• Refillable water bottle
• Airplane snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars)
• Warm layer (shawl or hoody)
• Portable media (iPad, mini-laptop)
• Downloaded music, movies, books
• Noise-reduction headphones or earbuds
• Sleep mask, ear plugs, neck pillow
• Lip balm, moisturizer, toothbrush
• Tissues, hand wipes, chewing gum
• Lightweight travel towel/washcloth
• Four visa photos, charger cords
• Optional change of clothes (top and pants)

Final Tips

• Have digital and printed copies of all important documents.
• Pack items you can share with your teammate.
• Utilize local laundry services to pack less.
• Remember, there are stores around the world if you need anything!