Packing is no one’s favorite activity, but when you’re packing to go traveling, the excitement is REAL.
Exploring a new country or city is much easier when you’ve packed lightly and wisely, but that means remembering the essentials and removing filler items that you just don’t need.
But what are those items? How can you pack as efficiently as possible?
Here are the top seven items you should pack before your next trip abroad.
1. A Big Scarf
Hands down, a big scarf is one of the most handy items you’ll use while traveling. I’ve used a big scarf for a million things: to keep warm on cold bus rides, as a blanket for impromptu picnics and even as a towel when I was stuck.
Our favorite big scarf in this category is the Lululemon Vinyasa Scarf, which has adorable buttons on the side that can be fastened and worn 12 different ways.
2. Healthy Hoo Hoo Travel Wipes
Your hygiene is so important when traveling, but there are too many times when showering just isn’t as possible. Maybe the hot water went out, maybe you’re camping and there’s no water — or maybe the bathroom is just too dirty to hang out in that long.
Whatever the reason, there’s a solution: the Healthy Hoo Hoo Travel Wipes. We LOVE these products. They’re soft, versatile, easy to travel with discreetly and perfect when you’re on the go.
You’re welcome!
3. THINX Period Panties
We thank all the gods for inventing period panties. THINX are a lifesaver for any woman who travels. Being on the road can majorly mess up your cycle, and there’s nothing worse than getting the surprise of your period while on a 12-hour bus.
We don’t leave home without at least one pair of THINX in our bag.
Can’t afford the price tag of a pair of THINX? We also love these pairs we found on Amazon.
4. Lush Shampoo Bars
What is a shampoo bar? TSA regulations mean that traveling with liquids gets harder and harder. That’s why we’re so stoked that LUSH created shampoo bars. These tiny little bars are like hard bars of soap, but they lather into the equivalent of shampoo.
There are tons of options for shampoo bars on the market. If you’re looking for something you can ship to yourself via Amazon Prime, these are our favorite options.
5. Leggings
Chances are, you’re going to be moving a lot on your next trip. From hiking to see the sunrise over a local mountain to walking miles through the city center, you need a pair of leggings that won’t quit on you.
There are thousands of options for athletic apparel these days, but we love the Zella leggings because they’re thick and won’t start to go sheer on you.
6. Dry Shampoo
When you want to look your best without having to do all the work. We don’t leave home without dry shampoo and love the Oscar Blandi because it’s not in an aerosol can, which means you won’t have problems getting it through security.
7. Eagle Creek Packing Cubes
Packing cubes help to keep everything organized.
Use one bag for tops, one bag for bottoms, and one bag for delicates, and you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for without having to pull everything out of your bag.
We love the Eagle Creek Spector-It Packing Cubes and the Compass Rose Packing Cubes by Travel Fashion Girl. Really, any set will do, so long as you have 3-4 different cubes so that you can separate your different items.
