Packing List Generator

How to pack smarter

A packing list eliminates the stress of last-minute scrambling and the cost of forgetting essentials. Build your list a few days before travel so you have time to locate items or buy replacements without rushing.

Packing checklist tips

• Start with your destination’s weather: check the 10-day forecast and pack layers. It’s easier to remove a layer than to buy a jacket on arrival.
• Carry-on vs. checked luggage: liquids over 100ml (3.4oz) must go in checked bags. Keep valuables, medications, and one change of clothes in your carry-on in case checked bags are delayed.
• Roll clothes: rolling instead of folding reduces wrinkles and saves 20–30% of packing volume.
• Packing cubes: organize by category (tops, bottoms, underwear). Compression cubes reduce bulk further for long trips.
• The one-bag test: lay out everything, then put back half. Most travelers bring twice as much as they need.

Essential categories

• Documents: passport, ID, travel insurance, visa, hotel/flight confirmations.
• Money: cards, local currency (small bills), a backup card in a separate bag.
• Health: prescriptions, OTC medications, first-aid essentials, sunscreen.
• Electronics: phone charger, universal adapter, power bank, headphones.

Trip type packing strategies

• Beach vacation: swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry towel, sandals, light cover-up, waterproof bag for phone and valuables, after-sun lotion.
• Business trip: wrinkle-resistant formalwear, portable steamer or wrinkle-spray, business cards, laptop with charger, noise-canceling headphones, extra dress shoes.
• Backpacking: ultralight layers, merino wool base layers (odor-resistant, multi-day), rain jacket, hiking boots, blister treatment, water filter or purification tablets.
• Ski trip: thermal base layers, ski socks, neck gaiter, goggles, hand warmers, sunscreen (UV is stronger at altitude), boot bag.
• International travel: universal power adapter, local SIM or international plan, photocopies of passport, travel insurance documents, any required visas.

Liquid rules reference

TSA 3-1-1 Rule (US): liquids in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less, all fitting in 1 clear quart-sized zip bag, 1 bag per passenger. Placed in the security bin separately.

EU rules: identical 100 ml per container limit, liquids in a transparent resealable bag not exceeding 1 litre total volume (approximately 20 × 20 cm). One bag per person in the tray.

Exceptions: prescription medications, baby formula, and breast milk in reasonable quantities are allowed above 100 ml in both the US and EU (declare at security checkpoint).

Carry-on weight limits

Weight limits vary significantly by airline and route:

• Budget carriers (Ryanair, EasyJet, Spirit): 7–10 kg carry-on; strictly enforced. Overweight bags may be gate-checked for a fee.
• Full-service carriers (Delta, United, Lufthansa): 10–15 kg; size-based enforcement is more common than weight-based on US domestic routes.
• US domestic (most major carriers): typically size-based (45 linear inches / 22×14×9 inches) rather than weight-limited for carry-on.

Always check your specific airline's current policy before packing, as limits change.